ISAAC MIZRAHI NY TIMES UMBRELLAWhat is the hottest accessory for the summer of 2009 in New York? The recession took the air out of any "it" bag this year and all those $900 shoes were ruined by the rain day after day. That's right, you guessed it. The hottest accessory this year was an overlooked must have in any wardrobe - The Umbrella! More than any year in recent memory, this Spring and Summer your umbrella was used day after day and week after week. Those $3 disposables just don't cut it for any fashion guy or gal who is a regular on Madison Ave. or out in East Hampton.
Well made umbrellas last for years, so think of it as an investment. I say investment because you can spend as much on an umbrella as you would on a designer pair of shoes. While the prices seem steep - if hand-made - it is worth it.
You now have endless options to keep dry. Every fashion house with a serious accessory department has jumped on the rain-wagon and offers an umbrella. The big decision is if you go fashion or classic. Here are some options: 
LOUIS VUITTON SIGNATURE UMBRELLA
If you love the logos and are drawn to the monograms - Louis Vuitton has a signature look just for you. LV has a range of styles - even offering a silk parasol with UV protection. Prices range from $500- $800. 
CHANEL CAMELIA UMBRELLA
Chanel of course has a new version a few times a year. While anything Chanel is on the high-end - the powers that be know how to tweak a classic and give you the details to make it seem worth it. Many times there is signature quilting on the case or even classic Chanel chain so you can sling it cross your body as a true accessory. Also expect to pay $700 and up. Check with you nearest Chanel btq. as there can be surprises at different stores.
I have been a big fan of the Japanese Chain - MUJI for years. The closest store to New York used to be Paris, so I would make sure I paid a visit whenever I was in the city of light. Then, they opened in London - that's where I bought my Muji luggage! Now the company has opened outlets in the states. The Muji umbrella is chic and understated and has a ring hook to hang.
Price is under $100.
ISAAC MIZRAHI NY TIMES UMBRELLA & RAINCOATOne of the quirkiest offerings around is the new New York Times clear umbrella by Isaac Mizrahi! New York's fashion version of Rhoda has designed this exclusive umbrella and matching raincoat for the prestigeous newspaper! I'm sure it will be a collectible. This is one of those feel good purchases. There is something about buying official merchandise from a museum or Newspaper that gives me this nostalgic feeling. The best part is the umbrella and raincoat are clear and obviously go with everything. They are even sold together as a set for $100! You can't beat that. What a great gift for anyone you know who graduated and is moving to NYC for their job search! Fun accessory that will make them think of you every time they wear it! Go to the NY TIMES website to order now - limited edition!
Finally if you want to go old school and classic - I have three words for you -
MUJI UMBRELLA IN CLASSIC COLORSSwaine Aigney Brigg. This classic British house has been 
BRIGG UMBRELLA HANDLE WITH STERLING ACCENThand crafting umbrellas for generations. The have the Royal appointment of the Queen and when Gene Kelley was "Singing in the Rain" he was dancing with - you guessed it - a Gentlemen's Brigg Umbrella. Visit the U.S. distributors website to order. 
GENE KELLY "SINGING IN THE RAIN" WITH A BRIGGGENE
You really can't go wrong with any of these options. Whatever you decide, buy a quality umbrella.
The extra confidence you will feel the first time you open it stepping out into the rain will keep a wet and rainy day from becoming a real downer! Stay dry!