In the middle of the 19th century large sections of Europe witnessed the emergence of sun umbrellas, which is also commonly known as parasols. The word parasol in French means against the sun. Though, being a relatively new devise in European and American countries, this is something that has come down the ages in countries of the orient, as well as Egypt and Greece.

The sun umbrellas carried in countries like China, India, Egypt, Greece, to name a few, were used by the royal family and others closely linked to royalty. This included the ministers, top ranking defense officials, the royal teachers also known as the guru, etc. These umbrellas were made from a thick fabric through which the sun's rays could not seep. The fabric was placed as a canopy on wood or bamboo ribs and rod.

The umbrellas that were constructed to protect people from the sun while traveling were in varied sizes. There were the small ones that were carried by individuals and the larger ones that could shelter a couple of people at a time that were generally carried by two or three slaves.

While the archaic umbrella designs do continue to exist till today, there are the more fashionable sun umbrellas that are constantly being designed. During the varied daytime functions women are seen carrying trendy parasols that enhance the beauty of whatever they have worn. Some of these designs include those with lace trimmings on the edge, a satin ribbon or embroidered edging, etc.

Some people have sun umbrellas made from the same fabric of their dress.