Umbrellas might be one of the most underrated design objects in our everyday lives. Practical, portable, and instantly recognisable, they’ve followed us through centuries of rainstorms, sunny days, fashion moments, and city streets.

This National Umbrella Day, we’re celebrating the history, utility, and design of umbrellas - and why this everyday essential deserves a little more love.

From ancient origins to modern sustainable design, here’s everything you didn’t know you wanted to know about umbrellas and why choosing the right one really matters.

A Brief History of the Umbrella

Umbrellas have been around far longer than most people realise.

• The earliest umbrellas date back over 4,000 years, appearing in ancient Egypt, China, and Mesopotamia

• Originally, umbrellas weren’t for rain - they were designed for shade and status, symbolising power and protection

• Waterproof umbrellas didn’t become common until the 18th century in Europe, when oil-treated fabrics made rain protection possible

Fast forward to today, and umbrellas are one of the most universally used accessories in the world - essential in cities, travel, and everyday life.

A Rain Check: Why Umbrellas Are Everyday Essentials

Rain is far more constant than we tend to notice.

In cities like London, New York, and Tokyo, rain is spread across hundreds of days each year - often as light, unexpected showers rather than dramatic storms. It’s not the downpours that catch people out - it’s the drizzle between plans.

Most people don’t get caught in the rain because of bad planning. They get caught because the weather changes quickly.

That’s why umbrellas aren’t occasional accessories - they’re daily essentials. And when rain is part of everyday life, the quality, durability, and design of what you carry suddenly matters a lot more.

Fun fact: in rainy cities, people use umbrellas more frequently than almost any other weather-related accessory - yet they’re one of the most commonly replaced items. Which brings us to design.

Why Umbrellas Are a Design Icon

A great umbrella sits at the intersection of function and design.

It needs to:

• Open smoothly

• Withstand wind and rain

• Be comfortable to hold

• Look good while doing all of the above

That balance is what transforms an umbrella from a disposable item into a design object - something people choose intentionally and use for years.

At Original Duckhead, we’ve always believed umbrellas shouldn’t be throwaway. They should be bold, practical, and built to last.

The Utility of a Truly Good Umbrella

Not all umbrellas are created equal.

A well-designed umbrella:

• Keeps you dry in heavy rain

• Protects from sun with UV coverage

• Stands up to unpredictable weather

• Becomes part of your daily routine

This is why umbrellas are increasingly being searched as practical gifts, sustainable accessories, and everyday essentials - people want items that genuinely earn their place.

The Original Duckhead Approach to Umbrella Design

Original Duckhead was founded to challenge the throwaway culture of the umbrella industry, where over 1 billion umbrellas are discarded globally every year.

Our umbrellas are designed with longevity in mind:

• Canopies made from recycled plastic bottles

• PFAS-free waterproof coatings

• FSC-certified wood handles

• High-strength frames built for repeated use

And because design matters just as much as durability, each umbrella is finished with a thoughtfully designed handle - from our signature duck head for character and charm, to the smooth pebble-shape of the Mini and the sleek straight handles of the Daily for a more minimalist feel. Every detail is considered, balancing comfort, function, and timeless craftsmanship.

Meet Our Umbrella Collection

National Umbrella Day is the perfect excuse to explore the different umbrellas designed for different lives:

• The Classic Duck Umbrella - Iconic, sturdy, and instantly recognisable

• The Mini Umbrella - Compact, lightweight, and perfect for travel or commuting

• The Daily Umbrella - Built for everyday weather warriors

• The Duckling Umbrella - Designed for little hands and big puddle-jumping adventures

• Limited Editions & Collaborations - Where design, storytelling, and collectability meet

Each one is designed to turn rainy days into something worth embracing.

Why Umbrellas Make Surprisingly Great Gifts

Umbrellas have quietly become one of the most searched non-traditional gift ideas - and it makes sense.

They’re:

• Useful year-round

• For everyone

• Easy to personalise

• Practical without being boring

A well-made umbrella becomes a daily companion - one that’s remembered every time the forecast turns.

FAQs: Everything You Didn’t Know About Umbrellas

Q: Why is National Umbrella Day celebrated?
A: National Umbrella Day celebrates the invention, history, and everyday usefulness of umbrellas - one of the world’s most enduring accessories.

Q: What makes a good umbrella?
A: Strong construction, weather resistance, comfortable grip, and thoughtful design.

Q: Are sustainable umbrellas better?
A: Yes - umbrellas made from recycled materials and designed to last reduce waste and environmental impact.

Q: How long should a good umbrella last?
A: With quality materials and care, a well-made umbrella can last for years - not weeks.

Celebrating Rain, Design & Everyday Joy

Umbrellas have travelled through centuries of design evolution - from symbols of status to everyday essentials we rely on without thinking twice.

This National Umbrella Day, we’re celebrating the humble umbrella in all its forms - and inviting you to choose one that’s designed to last, made responsibly, and ready for real life.

Explore Original Duckhead umbrellas - thoughtfully designed rainwear made to last. Shop all