Ever wondered how the humble umbrella became a British icon? Explore the fascinating history of the brolly - from ancient parasols to the storm-ready designs of today.
A Brief History of Keeping Dry
Before it was a rainy-day essential, the umbrella was a mark of elegance.
The earliest versions appeared over 4,000 years ago in Egypt, China, and Greece - not for rain, but for shielding royalty from the sun.
The word umbrella even comes from the Latin umbra, meaning “shade.”
It wasn’t until the 1700s that the brolly truly arrived in Britain, where it soon became as much a cultural symbol as a practical tool.
The Man Who Made Rain Respectable
Meet Jonas Hanway, the 18th-century philanthropist who dared to stroll through London under an umbrella - and was promptly laughed at for it.
Until Hanway, only ladies (and a few Frenchmen) were seen using them.
His persistence paid off: by the early 1800s, umbrellas were a fixture on every British street, from cobbled alleys to Mayfair squares.
From Parasol to Practicality
Early umbrellas were heavy creations of oiled silk and whalebone.
Industrial innovation brought lighter, stronger frames - steel ribs, waterproof fabrics, and automatic opening mechanisms.
By the mid-20th century, the “British brolly” had evolved into a design icon - smart, sturdy, and always close at hand.
A Modern Twist on a Classic
Today, the spirit of that heritage lives on in Best Brolly.
Each design blends time-honoured craftsmanship with modern windproof technology, flexible fibreglass ribs, and sleek colourways like Mint Rain, Sky Cyan, and Navy Night.
Our umbrellas nod to tradition while embracing innovation - a perfect fit for unpredictable British weather.
Why the Brolly Endures
The British climate may be moody, but our relationship with the umbrella is one of quiet confidence.
It’s not just a tool - it’s a companion; a subtle declaration that no matter what the skies bring, we’re ready for it.
So, come rain or shine, grab your Best Brolly - because style and shelter never go out of fashion.