Watskin Is Making Sun Protection Chic

Because Sun Safety Can Still Be Stylish

By Hannah Sellers

When actor Lois Robbins was diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma above her lip in 2018, her dermatologist’s prescription was clear: avoid the sun. For someone whose life revolved around the outdoors—beach walks, paddleboarding and an active lifestyle—the news felt like a sentence. “It was a devastating limitation,” Robbins recalls. “I searched everywhere for clothing that was both protective and stylish, but the options were limited and uninspiring.”

Spotting the whitespace in the market, Robbins took matters into her own hands. “I decided to create something myself,” she says. Armed with UPF50+ fabric, a friend, and a sewing machine, she crafted her first piece. “Before long, women everywhere were asking where they could buy one,” says Robbins. Thus, Watskin was born: a luxury sunwear brand designed to let women “Live in the Light” safely, comfortably, and confidently. “We’ve literally got you covered,” Robbins quips.

Watskin UPF50+ textiles block 98% of UV rays while offering 4-way stretch, moisture-wicking, and quick-dry technology. But performance is only half the story. “Our focus is on fashion-forward design—timeless silhouettes, tailored details, and pieces that transition seamlessly from poolside to lunch, or from a power walk to a paddleboard,” Robbins explains. “We’re creating clothing that performs like activewear or swimwear, but feels like luxury fashion.”

Beyond empowering women to protect their skin without sacrificing style, Watskin partners with melanoma research initiatives, donating a portion of every sale to the Melanoma Research Alliance. “Awareness and education are as important as innovation,” Robbins says. “Sun safety is often an afterthought, something you consider only once you’re already outdoors. By making sun-protective clothing that women are excited to wear, we’re reframing skin health as a natural extension of personal style and self-care.”

Watskin recently debuted their Fall ‘25 and Resort ‘26 Collections, introducing an array of new patterns and colorways that could make the best gift for your most fashionable friend or become a staple for an upcoming holiday beach vacation. I tried out their Ryann Bodysuit on a recent girls trip in Maine. The long sleeves of the one-piece were perfect for my morning cold plunge and kept me assured I was protected out of the water too. My friends fawned over the suit and repeatedly commented on how chic it looked. The piece would also be perfect for Jet Skiers or Surfs who want a suit that is stylish, protective and stays put through the waves.

“My ritual always includes layering a chic Watskin catsuit, usually the Lois Catsuit, paired with a protective wide-brimmed Sienna Hat, and SPF,” Robbins says. “It might start with a swim or a yoga session and end with a walk along the beach while catching up with friends and family.” Robbin’s routine epitomizes the versatility of Watskin’s styles.

Looking ahead, Robbins sees Watskin evolving into the go-to luxury sunwear brand worldwide. “We will continue to innovate in fabric technology, expand our collections into new categories while also expanding into new styles & prints, and grow our presence globally,” Robbins says. She plans to evolve Watskin beyond a fashion brand, but an aspirational and empowering lifestyle brand.