Cottage culture is one of the unique things about Canada that makes summers here so special. Whether you’re visiting a lakeside cabin, a beachy destination or a little cottage in the woods, escaping into the outdoors to enjoy a weekend (or more) of relaxation is quintessentially Canadian.
I know that whenever I pack up and head for a visit to my in-laws’ cottage in central Ontario, there are a few must-haves that make the trip just a bit more comfortable – because after all, the whole point of a cottage weekend is to forget about the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
If you’re heading on an upcoming getaway, find some of my favourite cottage fashion essentials below, all of which are from Canadian brands.
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Why buy: This jacket has an updated take on the classic chore jacket, thanks to an oversized fit and cropped silhouette. It’s crafted from organic cotton for a durable finish that keeps out the chill on cool summer nights.
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Why buy: These sweats are a Canadian classic for a reason. They’re made with comfort in mind and have a relaxed fit that’s perfect for lounging. They’re also available in sizes for the whole family in case you’re interested in a matching moment.
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Why buy: This swimsuit is proof that a one-piece doesn’t have to be boring. Designed with thin straps, a plunging neckline and just the right amount of bum coverage, the Sunday Suit is a versatile pick for summer. It also comes in a wide range of sizes, so you can get your perfect fit.
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Why buy: For anyone looking to up their sun safety, this bucket hat is a great option. It’s made from breathable linen with a wide brim that covers the face and neck from the sun’s harsh rays.
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Why buy: Bather swimsuits are designed in Toronto and made in Canada, plus they come in tons of fun colours and prints. This striped pair is ideal if you want to bring the European vacation vibes to the cottage this summer, but you can also shop dozens of other styles in the same cut.
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Why buy: Canadian travel brand Monos may be best known for its luggage and packing essentials, but its new line of sunglasses is also worth checking out. I’m a fan of the Portico silhouette, which has a classic wayfarer shape that suits just about everyone.
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Why buy: As warm as it can get in the sun, sometimes you still need an extra layer when you’re on the water or sitting around the fire after dark. This lightweight fleece hoodie is designed with plenty of stretch and features a slim fit that eliminates bulk.
And if you need somewhere to store all your cottage essentials, these are the luggage picks that I swear by for a quick weekend getaway:
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2026-07-10T17:11:13Z