Most rash guards are designed to be practical and then forgotten: plain navy, black or a logo across the chest. They protect your skin, and that is about it.

When I started designing rash guards, I wanted to know what would happen if sun protection looked like a painting. The result is our Masterworks in Motion collection: women's rash guards inspired by Klimt, Matisse, Kandinsky and other artists I love, made to be worn in the water and far beyond it.

What is a rash guard?

A rash guard is a fitted, stretchy top originally made for surfers to protect their skin from board rash, sand and sun. Today it is one of the most popular swim tops for women because it offers coverage and sun protection without the fuss of constant sunscreen reapplication on your arms and back.

A good rash guard should stretch with you, dry quickly, stay put in the water and feel comfortable for hours.

What to look for in a women's rash guard

• Sun protection. Look for a UPF rating. Our rash guards are UPF 50+.
• Stretch and recovery. Four-way stretch fabric moves with you when you swim, paddle or reach, and springs back into shape.
• Coverage. Long sleeves and a slightly longer body keep the fit secure and protect more skin.
• Comfortable seams. Flatseam and coverstitch construction help reduce chafing during long days in and out of the water.

Our rash guards are made from a smooth blend of 82% polyester and 18% spandex in a midweight fabric that feels substantial but never stiff.

Why a colorful rash guard?

Because the beach and the pool are some of the happiest places in the world, and your swimwear should feel that way too. A bold rash guard is also easier to spot in the water, which is a small but real bonus for families and groups.

Most of all, it photographs beautifully. A vacation is full of photos, and a rash guard that looks like a work of art makes every one of them a little more memorable.

Art you can swim in

Each design in our artist-inspired rash guard collection starts with a painting I love.

Klimt brings the gold. Designs inspired by The Kiss and Tree of Life wrap the body in ornate spirals, jewel tones and antique gold.

Matisse brings the color and the sea. Pieces inspired by Open Window, Collioure and his Moroccan and Provençal scenes are full of saturated pink, cobalt and turquoise, and a few even feature surfboards.

Kandinsky brings the movement, with sweeping curves and playful geometry.

The rash guards are an extension of our Great Artists collection. I wrote about how that collection began in Upcycling Art Into New Art Classics.

Not just for swimming

A rash guard is one of the most versatile pieces you can pack. Out of the water, it works as a fitted statement top.

• With wide leg pants for a museum day, a festival or dinner by the water.
• With joggers for travel days, paddleboarding or a walk on the beach.
• Under an open shirt for a breezy resort look.

Because the colors are so rich, a rash guard pairs naturally with our printed wide leg pants. Pick one color from the artwork and match the pants to it.

Perfect for cruises and winter getaways

If you are heading somewhere warm this winter, a rash guard belongs in your suitcase. It covers pool days, snorkeling excursions, beach afternoons and deck time in one piece, and it takes almost no space to pack.

For full packing ideas, see my cruise wear guide and what to wear around the pool on a cruise, or browse our Cruise and Resort Wear collection.

Rash guard FAQ

Can you wear a rash guard as a regular top?

Yes. A fitted long sleeve rash guard works beautifully as a statement top with pants, joggers or a skirt, especially in a bold artistic print.

Should a rash guard be tight?

A rash guard should fit close to the body so it stays in place in the water, but it should never feel restrictive. Four-way stretch fabric gives you that snug, comfortable fit.

Do rash guards protect from the sun?

Rash guards with a UPF rating do. Ours are UPF 50+, which helps protect the skin they cover on sunny days.

What is the difference between a rash guard and a swim shirt?

A rash guard is usually more fitted and made from stretchy, quick-drying fabric, while a swim shirt tends to be looser. Rash guards stay in place better for active water sports.

Masterworks should not stay still. Take one to the beach. Explore the full Masterworks in Motion rash guard collection.