Consider the umbrella. This age-old accessory has made itself known in pop culture as Mary Poppins’ mode of transportation, as Gene Kelly’s dance partner in “Singing in the Rain” and as the namesake of Rihanna’s hit single, “Umbrella.” More importantly, umbrellas are darn useful on rainy days. With the dignity of this ubiquitous apparatus to uphold, North by Northwestern has set forth to find the best of the best in the world of umbrellas, so as the weather takes a turn for the wet, you will be prepared.
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In the face of the infamous bluster of Chicago weather, an indestructible umbrella that can stand the trials and tribulations of life in the windy city is a top priority. The GustBuster Classic from Gustbuster calls itself “the world’s smartest umbrella.” Identifiable by its teardrop shaped inner support system, this umbrella was tested in a wind tunnel by the College of Aeronautics, and it should withstand winds of over 55 mph. The Classic is one of five different styles offered by Gustbuster, and it won’t break the bank. $34.90, Amazon.com
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If rainy days get you down, the Sky Umbrella from the Museum of Modern Art is your go-to umbrella. It will give you your own personal patch of blue sky with just the push of a button. Anyone outside of the umbrella will see a run-of-the-mill black cover and standard handle. But inside, a brilliant blue sky for your private viewing unfolds as the umbrella is opened. Designed by Tibor Kalman, this umbrella will help you stay on the sunny side of life — even in a downpour.
$48, Momastore.org
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There seems to be an eco-friendly version of just about everything these days, and umbrellas are no exception. Do the environment a good turn and invest in a Brelli. Resembling the idyllic Japanese parasol, Brellis are made of renewable, biodegradable bamboo and waterproofed with biofilm. Available in a variety of different colors and styles, you can even buy Brelli Markers to decorate your Brelli any way you wish.
$29.90-$57, thebrellishop.com
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Now let’s say that you and your significant other have planned a long walk on the beach. When the day arrives, rainclouds roll in and you sadly pick up the phone to cancel the long-anticipated date. But wait! This scenario could be avoided if you had the Umbrella for Two! This handy umbrella puts an end to the awkward moments that occur when two people try to share one umbrella. Whether you are with a date, a friend or simply feel the need for extra rain protection, the umbrella built for two has got you covered. Literally. Even better, you can split the cost with someone and get it on the cheap. $49, umbrellastand.com
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Most sports enthusiasts have been to one of those dismal games where it rains. And rains. And rains. Rain puts a damper on the spirit of even the most faithful fans. So when you’re headed to the game and the sky looks foreboding, swing by the Norris Bookstore and pick up a Northwestern umbrella. With the university logo proudly emblazoned on its canvas, the Northwestern umbrella will keep the rain off you so you can keep you mind on the game. And because you’re paying you so much for tuition already, this umbrella’s the cheapest of the lot. $14.98, Norris Bookstore
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There comes a time when everyone has had their share of splashing in puddles, wearing cute boots and singing in the rain. If you’re not a Cullen, incessant rainy weather probably makes you frazzled, grumpy and generally unpleasant. At this point, there is only one thing left to say, and here is the umbrella that says it all … in your choice of two different languages! You will find that this umbrella perfectly expresses the way you feel as you are hit by that first drop of rain. $44, raindropsto.com