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By MARY JANE PARK
© St. Petersburg Times, published June 7, 2001
We know the calendar says it's still spring. We also know that Florida's summer is here. When you want a shield from heat and sun, you'll find a variety of ideas, from cool shades to hot lawn furniture. Remember to apply sunscreen -- liberally.
-- MARY JANE PARK, Times staff writer
It's a shady outdoor retreat for meals or table games. Rectangular wooden table has a solid frame, slatted top and umbrella opening; matching armchairs have solid frames, slatted seats and backs. All can be treated with linseed oil to maintain their finishes or allowed to weather to a silvery gray. Cushions and market umbrella are treated to resist fading and mildew. Carmel table, $279; Carmel chair, $129; five-piece ensemble including table, four chairs, sale price $699; red or striped pillows, $29.95 each; Carmel red or striped market umbrella, sale price $199; rust-resistant metal umbrella stand, $119. All items, Crate & Barrel, toll-free 1-800-323-5461; on the Web: www.crateandbarrel.com
The dangers of too much sun exposure are well known. This unisex fabric hat is constructed of impervious cotton duck and gives excellent protection. It has a 4-inch brim, a chin strap and an absorbent adjustable sweatband; it packs flat in a suitcase or beach bag. Sizes S, M, L, XL and 2XL; in Desert Khaki and Natural. Ultra Sun Hat. Style #4500K01. $49.95. Sun Precautions. Toll-free telephone 1-800-882-7860; on the Web: www.sunprecautions.com
Accessory diva Kate Spade has moved beyond handbags into designer sunglasses, combining classic styles and modern attitudes. Trends for this summer include chunky plastics, rimless frames and bright-colored lenses, along with huge tortoise frames a la 1960. She named each of the designs for friends and family members. Also available in prescription lenses. Kate Spade sunglasses, $150 to $160 per pair, selected Sunglass Hut stores; on the Web: www.sunglasshut.com
Classic Pawleys Island hammock takes its name from a South Carolina isle where the first was made in 1889. Climb into its handwoven cradle for daydreaming under an old oak (tree straps required) or a porch (steel frame sold separately). Pawleys Island hammock, $119; hammock steel stand, $99; hammock tree straps, $29. Restoration Hardware. Catalog, Web orders only. Toll-free 1-800-762-1005; www.restorationhardware.com