Protect your skin this summer with these actually trendy rash vests

Once upon a time, a 'rashie' was something our mums forced us to wear to the beach. Boxy and usually pretty ugly, we protested every summer, not understanding how essential it was to protect ourselves from the sun.

Now older and wiser, we're able to recognise that sun damage and skin cancers are all too prevalent, especially in Australia. And thankfully, the swimwear seems to have caught up, because rash vests are cute now.

If you're someone who loves to swim at the beach or hang out poolside in the summer sun, we can't stress how great a rash vest is for protecting your skin. We've put together a list of our favourites – the bright, the flattering, and the purely practical.

NOTE: Prices are accurate at time of publishing.

Sheila Ash Cropped Rash Vest

Get it in hot pinkGet it in lavenderGet it in golden yellow

This long-sleeved, crop-length rash vest comes in a range of bold colours (or classic black, if you prefer). With UPF 50+ fabric, a high scoop neckline and a shelf bra with foam cups to keep you supported, it's our top pick when it comes to rash vests for summer. Pair it with the Alyssa Mid Swim Shorts to get all the coverage you need.

Seafolly Long Sleeve Sunvest in Black

$139.95 on Myer

This simple rash guard features a gold-toned full-length zipper, so you can adjust the fit how you like. With long sleeves, you can opt for complete protection from the sun.

Roxy Pro Wave Jacket

$99.99 here

A rash vest that's cut like a jacket, the Roxy Pro Wave Jacket is one of our favourite picks for swimwear style. Featuring side panels with a floral print, a full-length zip and a rounded neckline, it's sun-safe without looking cumbersome.

Roxy Lagos Crop Top Lycra Rash Vest

$79.99 on Roxy

While we advocate for protecting your stomach and back from the sun, you could pair this adorable neon orange rash vest with a one-piece swimsuit to give yourself more coverage. The bright tone will keep you visible in the surf, too!

Cynthia Rowley Long Sleeve Rash Guard

Yours for $125

Featuring bright pink stripes and soft fabric with UPF 30+, this Cynthia Rowley rash vest is a stylish option for a day at the beach.

Sea Level Australia Essentials Long Sleeve Rash Vest

Buy yours for $89.95

With a special focus on contoured designs, Sea Level Australia makes comfortable and flattering pieces. Their long-sleeve rash vest has a full zipper which you can adjust as you like, but make sure it's zipped all the way up if you're in direct sun.

Billabong Sundays Surf Short Sleeve Surf T Shirt

Get the black for $59.99Get the blue for $59.99

A trusted surf brand that's been around forever, Billabong are at the forefront of making rash vests cool again. Their Sundays Surf Short Sleeve T-Shirt has a looser fit than most rash vests, so it's perfect for those who don't like to wear anything too tight.

Duskii Long Sleeve Zip Rash Top

$120 on The Iconic$120 on Farfetch

Another super-bright option, we love the toucan print on this rash vest. With a full zip closure, you can decide which amount of coverage works best for you.

Athlio Women's Short Sleeve Rash Guard

$29.98 here

Another short-sleeved option that brings a pop of colour, this bright pink rash vest also has UPF 50+ fabric and that classic high neckline that'll protect your neck and shoulders from the burning sun. You can also grab this one in a few different colours – check it out in aqua and purple.

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