During the summer season, a sundress is a wardrobe staple; at Mott 50, the sundress takes on a whole new meaning. The clothing line, started by Edina native Monique Moore and pal Anne Botica, is easy on the eyes and even better for the skin. Each garment is designed with a UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) to provide protection from UVA rays, the harmful rays responsible for premature aging. “I like to remind people,” explains Moore, that “tans fade, but wrinkles don't.”
Named after the combination of the SoHo street in New York City on which Moore and Botica reside and the level of sun protection in each piece of clothing, Mott 50 offers clothing for both men and women. Each piece boasts a UPF of 50 or more (to put this into perspective, a regular white T-shirt has a UPF of only five). According to Moore, “I wanted to create a line of sun-protective clothing that’s easy to integrate into one’s wardrobe and lifestyle, something that’s both functional and fashionable so you feel great wearing it hanging at the playground or pool, walking the lakes, out on the boat, etc.”
This summer, dress to impress. The line carries a variety of styles and prints, including tunics, colorful shifts and, yes, even the option of a UPF-approved little black dress (Connolly Wrap Dress: $119, UPF 50). Also consider flirting with some UV rays in a summertime dress like the Leigh Sundress in herringbone green or poppy ($145, UPF 50). Want more incentive to shop? A portion of the proceeds from Mott 50 go toward skin cancer research.
