There’s something about an umbrella that makes it more than just another event freebie. It’s functional, yes — but with the right design, it becomes a statement. A memory. A photo op. And in 2025, brands are getting bolder, smarter, and more deliberate about what they’re putting on those canopies.
If you’re planning for events this year, and umbrellas are on the table, it’s worth knowing what’s trending — not just so your design looks fresh, but so it feels aligned with the kind of message you’re trying to send.
We’ve pulled together what’s catching on with brands right now — from colours and print styles to the subtler details like handle finishes and sustainability credentials.
Let’s get into it.
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So, what colours are making a splash?
The safe answer used to be navy or black with a bit of white branding. Still solid, but this year, things have shifted.
What we’re seeing more of in 2025 is confidence in colour. Not just bright for the sake of it — but colour with intention. Rich emeralds, burnt oranges, deep maroons. Shades that feel warm and expensive without shouting. They tend to pop beautifully in photos, especially in duller weather, and work well across all seasons.
That said, bold primary colours aren’t out. In fact, red’s having a moment again — especially paired with soft greys or tonal backgrounds. We’re also seeing colour-blocking coming back into play. Not just one solid tone, but contrasting panels or full-dome gradients that create movement when opened.
And for brands with strong identity systems? Pantone matching is still key. Whether it’s a heritage green, a soft lilac, or your own neon palette — if you’ve got it, we can match it.
Print styles are getting braver
We’re well past the stage of single-logo printing. In 2025, brands are using the entire canopy — inside and out — as a creative surface. Full-panel prints are no longer a premium luxury; they’re standard practice for clients who want something unique.
Some are going with bold typography that wraps across the panels. Others are using illustration, abstract patterns, or even photographic prints — either for seasonal campaigns or specific events. One client this year used a repeat print of customer testimonials across the inside of the canopy — subtle, clever, and memorable.
Even monochrome designs are getting creative. Think tone-on-tone patterns, textures printed to mimic fabric or organic materials, or contrast gloss finishes that shift in the light. You don’t need neon to be noticed — just good design and clever use of print.
And we’re seeing more clients play with the inside of the umbrella too — not just for aesthetics, but for surprise. A plain exterior that flips open to reveal a full-print message, map, or artwork has real impact, especially at launch events.
Style and shape are getting a look-in too
Straight handles still dominate — practical, easy to carry, hard to go wrong. But we’ve seen a clear move toward more tactile finishes: smooth wood, matte rubber, even soft-touch silicone. They feel better in hand and lend a touch of polish to even the most functional umbrella.
In terms of structure, the windproof and double-canopy models continue to be popular, especially for outdoor events where weather’s unpredictable. Golf umbrellas are still the go-to for visibility, but compact folding models are on the rise for handouts and smaller-scale activations — easier to carry, easier to pack, and often more likely to be reused.
In short: brands want their umbrellas to feel like something worth keeping, not just using once. They don’t want you to just throw away the thing – they want it to be something you hold onto for years and have you act as a walking billboard.
The sustainability shift is real
This isn’t lip service anymore. In 2025, brands are choosing suppliers who can back up their eco claims with real product options.
We’re seeing strong demand for umbrellas made from RPET fabrics (recycled plastic bottles), sustainably sourced wooden handles, and designs that reduce unnecessary materials. Not only are these better for the planet, they also resonate with end-users who are increasingly paying attention.
A lot of clients are even incorporating their sustainability story into the umbrella — printed messages on the sleeve, labels noting recycled content, or even QR codes that link to a breakdown of the product’s materials and origin.
We offer a full range of eco-conscious options, from the fabric to the frame, and work with clients to make sure the story behind the product is just as solid as the design.
What it all means for you
Whether you’re prepping for a product launch, a corporate event, or just want to freshen up your branded merchandise — the opportunities in 2025 are broad. And the brands that are standing out aren’t the ones shouting loudest. They’re the ones paying attention to the details.
A thoughtful colour. A tactile grip. A clever inside print. An umbrella that feels like it belongs to your brand, not just your budget.
You don’t need to reinvent the wheel. But you do need to think bigger than one logo on one panel.
Want to see what your idea would look like?
We’ll mock it up for free.
Send us your artwork, your brand colours, even just a rough idea — and we’ll create a design preview so you can see your custom umbrella before you commit.
Just hit the button to submit your design, and we’ll take care of the rest.
Make it stand out. Make it last. Let’s build something that does both.