Lake life is not about the 'fits. It is about options. You wake up early because the light is good, and you end up on a boat you did not plan to be on. You throw a sarong on to make lunch. Someone opens a bottle at four (or noon). Fireworks happen whether you are ready or not. The goal is to be dressed for all of it. All day. Quick outfit changes that flex with your plans and still look good when someone pulls out a camera. This is where packing well becomes an art form, and we've got you covered.
WearGuide
Lake Life Style Guide
A guide to packing smart, dressing comfortably, and making the most of every lakeside adventure
By Suzanne Kopulos2 min read
- Think in layers and multiples
- Pieces that can get wet, dry fast, and still attend a happy hour cruise
- One piece that makes you feel pulled together when the sun starts to dip
- If you packed it and never wore it, it should not come next time
- If it wrinkles badly, traps heat, or feels stiff by hour six, it stays home
Women: The Lake Uniform
- Mix-and-match pieces that earn their spot
- Knit tanks and the perfect white tee
- Linen trousers or relaxed denim and shorts
- Cover ups and pareos that double as a “look”
- One-piece swimsuits you can wear all day and bikini tops that double-duty
- Cardigans, pullovers, or denim jackets for after sunset
our favorites
Rosie Assoulin- High Garden Maxi Dress- $650
The Lady and The Sailor Le Classique Crew- $172
The Lady and The Sailor The Everyday Short- $145
Buck Mason Strider Cut Off Short- $128
Men: Easy, Comfortable, Ready for Anything
- Straightforward and unfussy
- Updated polos that have a relaxed fit
- Lightweight shackets or overshirts
- Soft tees without all the graphics
- Structured shorts that are comfortable but clean
- Boat shoes, slip-ons, or worn-in sneakers
Our favorites
Hanover Essential Oxford Shirt- $140
Buc Mason Como Cashmere Polo- $168
Taylor Stitch The Apres Pant- $128
Taylor Stitch The Foundation Short- $118
Velva Sheer S/S Henley Tee- $85
Accessories That Do the Heavy Lifting
- Canvas or leather totes that hold towels, snacks, and sunscreen
- Sunglasses that do not slide off your face
- Belts and watches that feel broken in
- Simple jewelry that works in water and out
- If you have to take it off constantly, it is not lake-approved
Our favorites
Gigi Burris Millinery IDA Hand Crochet Raffia Hat- $425
Krewe Leah Sunglasses 18K + Gelato Mirrored- $355
Favorite Daughter Alex Flat Sandals- $195
American Optical Racer Sunglasses- $230
Oliver Cabell Men's Low 1 Sneakers- $200
Shep Gear Navy USA Flag Trucker Hat- $34
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About the Author
Suzanne Kopulos has spent 20+ years as a celebrity stylist, fashion tastemaker, and lifestyle brand builder. For nearly a decade, she was represented by Ford Models—where her keen eye for emerging trends made her an indispensable part of Chicago’s fashion scene. With degrees in both business and law, Suzanne parlayed these skills into creative strategy; she has shaped campaigns for Neiman Marcus, BCBG, Ted Baker, Lafayette 148, goop, Ulta Beauty, Nike, QVC, Vital Proteins, Macy’s, Burberry, and Kate Somerville. As a fashion industry thought leader, she was regularly featured live on-air, contributing her “fresh takes” on ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX, and WGN.
