Six of the best - parasols

Classic stripes for a seaside feel, £60
From Next Directory, next.co.uk Photograph: Ian Nolan/Guardian

Butterfly parasol, £140
Jolly canopy to bring butterflies to even flower-free gardens
The Urban Garden, theurbangarden.co.uk, 0870 042 3586 Photograph: Ian Nolan/Guardian

£60, from the Natural Collection
Fairly traded parasol and stand made in rural Thailand. Just don't leave it out in the train.
naturalcollection.com, 0845 3677003 Photograph: Ian Nolan/Guardian

Droog shady lace parasol, £190
Designed by Chris Kabel for Droog Design. It's art for the garden.
From the Conran Shop, conranshop.co.uk, 020 7589 7401 Photograph: Ian Nolan/Guardian

Market parasol, £95
Simple shape and zesty colour
John Lewis, johnlewis.com, 0845 604 9049 Photograph: John Lewis

Raffia parasol, £30
Colourful, kitsch and fun, this even rustles like rushes in a gentle breeze.
Homebase, homebase.co.uk, 0845 077 8888 Photograph: Ian Nolan/Guardian