March 9, 2025

By Arthur H. Gunther III

thecolumnrule.com

Something about women and umbrellas in the rain. There’s sturdiness but also delicacy – maybe it’s class – in the image. Purpose-built, both the lady and the cover.

A fellow uses an umbrella at the last moment, if he opens it at all. It can even be an affectation, part of the business costume in some nations. Not so the woman, who knows the cover’s practicality. (Of course, a parasol is a different statement – not to divert the rain but to show fashion, status.)

What woman is without a fold-up umbrella in her car or at the coat rack at home? Just as females seem to be prepared for most situations, the cover is at hand. I can’t seem to find an umbrella when needed and usually don’t care if I get wet. But then again, making do, even with its mistakes, can get you through the day.

So, it’s just an observation here about men and women and umbrellas. The cut of a lady and her umbrella can be irresistible, I might add.

The writer is a retired newspaperman.

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