15 Outfit Ideas for a Day at the Lake

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(Image credit: @karenbritchick)

Summer is here, and we can think of nothing better than spending time out of the office, sitting waterside. Whether we’re at the beach, the pool, or—our personal favorite—a lake, there’s no better way to beat the heat. Packing for a lake trip isn’t as easy as it might seem, however, as you’re going to need more than just that one throw-on-and-go bathing suit or sundress. We’re seeking simple, chic looks that go the distance, taking us from morning brunch to a boat ride to sitting by the water’s edge for an outdoor barbecue with your best friends.

This summer, some of our favorite looks are about color. Whether it’s a white wrap dress with red polka dots, a bright midi skirt and jewel-tone crop top, or a mixed-print ensemble, we’re setting out to make this the season of going bold. We’re opting for statement-making silhouettes, ethereal layering, and all sorts of textures. When you’re planning your wardrobe for that lake trip this season, look no further than the below stylish girls for inspiration. Stop everything you’re doing and check out these lake outfits for summer—they’re more stylish than ever before.

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(Image credit: @driamurphy)

Keep it classic by wearing a one-piece swimsuit as a bodysuit. Top the look off with lightly distressed denim for a go-anywhere look.

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(Image credit: @humidityistheenemy)

There’s nothing that screams summer quite like a white-eyelet minidress. Finish it off with a colorful bag that pops.

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(Image credit: @karenbritchick)

We love a one-and-done wrap dress that will take you from the water’s edge to cocktails when the day is through.

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(Image credit: @camillecharriere)

Denim minis are a must-have for summer, especially when it comes to lake looks.

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(Image credit: @adenorah)

You can never have too many red bikinis or vintage-inspired cutoffs. Ever. Wear them on and off the beach—they’ll never go out of style.

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(Image credit: @lapantin)

Mix prints like a pro by pairing stripes with florals all summer long. We love clean lines when getting crazy with our patterns to balance out the whimsical with the classic.

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(Image credit: @shionat)

This head-turning skirt that will have all eyes on you. Pair it with an equally stunning crop top, but opt for a single color as to not overpower the killer bottom you have on.

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(Image credit: @alessandragl)

Sometimes all you need is that one great swimsuit. Make this summer's a bright striped one-piece that's equal parts bold and understated.

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(Image credit: @brookeely)

The little black bikini is like the little black dress of the beach. When heading for a weekend at the lake, no other clothing needs be required as long as you have a comfortable wrap scarf you can fashion as a shawl, dress, or skirt.

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(Image credit: @kristenmarienichols)

Ah, the printed wrap dress. It's our new favorite wardrobe essential that works year-round, and a summer lake trip is no exception.

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(Image credit: @bagather)

Go understated and classic with denim shorts and a striped top. Opt for a red-and-white Breton for a bit of fun-loving color in your otherwise tame palette.

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(Image credit: @alexmichaelmay)

There's no reason not to go bold when it comes to your summertime dresses. Try out bright red this summer when seeking that new shift to add to your collection.

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(Image credit: @mduenasjacobs)

Amp up your head-to-toe white look this summer with new silhouettes that wow. Consider pairing wide-leg, ankle-crop jeans with a boxy top.

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(Image credit: @katie)

Mix an ethereal off-the-shoulder top with heavyweight denim bottoms. The differences in texture—especially in a head-to-toe white look—makes all the difference.

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(Image credit: @cocobassey)

Of course, there's always the floral shirtdress, aka the look you can wear to the office and then take to the lake once that summer Friday bell goes off.

shop our favorite lake look essentials:

If you don’t have a trip planned, these chic looks will make you want to add one to the agenda ASAP.

Freelance Writer