I recently tested out the Marrakesh Maven Dress by Columbia Sportswear, $65 to see for myself how their Omni-Dry Advanced Evaporation and Omni-Shade SPF 50 Sun Protection Clothing worked – the moisture repellent technology is supposed to keep sweat away from the body and quickly evaporate, while the sun protection technology shields you from UV rays . Sounded like great stuff to incorporate in a garment, so I went out on this past ultra-sunny, Memorial Day weekend in my cute little new dress. The fabric on the dress had a stretchy, combed cotton jersey top, while the skirt portion was a different, slightly more silky jersey material. I really liked the slight contrast of the two fabrics, and the dress also came equipped with pockets, which is always a plus in my opinion.
After being out for both brunch and lunch, I felt the heat of the 88 degree day, yet was not coated in perspiration (sorry to be a little graphic). As for the SPF factor, this technology is also recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation, and being etremely pale (I know, it’s pretty obvious), it’s nice to feel that I’m getting a little extra coverage. All in all, I definitely recommend this as a perfect summer day dress for work, travel, or play; this particular Marrakesh Dress is available in three colors, or try the Costa Bella Dress which offers the same technologies plus a built-in bra.
~Julia DiNardo
