12 outdoor table shades for cool and elegant open-air dining

Bring boho brilliance into your backyard with this umbrella that is completed by cotton fringing and its bamboo pole. Because of these features, it's a good idea to store it indoors, so it doesn't get damaged by the elements. If you do need to clean it, just use a mild soapy water. Match it up with similar neutrals or Art Deco metallics and jewel tones to really make it stand out.

Add a subtle nautical nod to your dining space with this cornflower blue umbrella. I love the contrasting trim, which has even more depth thanks to the scalloped edges. Walmart shoppers say it's great value for money, well-made, and elegant. It also tilts three different ways, offering sun protection at different times of the day. Pair it up with summer table decor like blue glassware and crisp outdoor table linens for a Hamptons-style look.

If you have a big family or know you will be regularly hosting outdoor dinner parties, this umbrella will cover plenty of seating space. The crank mechanism will allow you to easily open it, while the fixing strap will keep it neatly contained when you need to close it. Plus, the solar-powered lights on the frame will add extra warmth and a dreamy glow when the sun sets.

Italian-inspired decor is one of the hottest design trends, with Amalficore lemon and tomato aesthetics adding Mediterranean tones to homes inside and outside. This umbrella is a lovely way to embrace this yourself, as the yellow shade will allow you to create a sunny look while keeping the rays at bay. I also love the rest of Business & Pleasure Co.'s Anthropologie collection, which includes a cute pool float and picnic set.

For those looking for hotel-style outdoor decorating ideas, this umbrella has a minimalist, luxe design. Made from Sunbrella acrylic canvas, this will block UV rays and repel any pesky droplets. I think the antique and canvas colorway is the most timeless, but the capri and rust designs would both add playful vibrancy. It's worth noting that the base on Lulu and Georgia is sold separately, coming in at $248 and in two different colors.

I like that this is a versatile shape and style, so it will look delightful no matter how you end up styling your backyard in future. The fabric is as durable as it is dreamy, with it being designed to hold off water and resist mildew. You can get the umbrella by itself, or it also comes in a bundle with sun chairs for $1,198. There are also a couple of different base options on Serena & Lily that are available separately.

This simple yet stylish canopy is highly rated, with over 1,500 five-star reviews. Walmart shoppers love how waterproof it is, its sturdiness, and how easy it is to set up. The simple push mechanism will allow you to put it up in just two minutes. Know you're going to need more than one? You can grab a pack of three and save some dollars (there are more color options by doing this, too).

Thinking of taking your open-air dining elsewhere? This would work great on the beach or in parks. The tension cords will add balance, while the bungee lock cord will keep it in place on windy days. One of the straps even has a nifty pouch for stashing towels, clothes, and sunnies. I like the orange shade as it'll be easy to spot in a crowd, but the leaves and ripple patterns are also fun.

Add a touch of elegance to your al fresco dining scene with this polished canopy. It is constructed from PE fabric, which will protect you from heat, water, and UV rays. The handy windows will let you stay enclosed and still see your outdoor space, but the walls do roll up so you can let more fresh air in if you need to. I also think it would be brilliant for parties in the daytime and the evening.

Moody colors are always winners, and you just can't go wrong with the classic black. If you like a little more color, it also comes in red, green, and blue. All four of the walls are removable, allowing you to let in however much sunshine you want. They're also netted, so they will protect you from outdoor pests like flies and wasps – which you definitely don't want around while dining outdoors.

I am obsessed with the laid-back The White Lotus aesthetic, and I think this grand gazebo would splendidly channel that in any backyard. You can channel that in your backyard with this grand gazebo. Not only is the triangular design exquisite, but it also helps keep it stable. The columns are rust-proof, so you can comfortably set it by the pool without worry. Just remember that the curtains are polyester, so don't set down any fire pits by it.

With a dark blue double-layer roof and chic beige curtains, this has a sophisticated color palette and plenty of practical features. You can adjust it to three different heights, so you can switch it up depending on if you want to create a cosy or breezy atmosphere. The steel frame is robust, and can even be disassembled and transported if you want to take your al fresco dining party elsewhere.