Victoria Day weekend is the unofficial starting gun of summer in Canada. Windows stay open a little longer. Patios start calling our name. Outdoor furniture comes out of hibernation. Weekend getaways get planned the night before, between loads of laundry and a sudden urge to "get some air."
It's also the weekend of season firsts. First coffee outside. First hike that ends with an ice cream cone. First evening with friends where someone says: "We should have brought a light jacket." First shopping trip for lighter pieces, because wardrobes are finally starting to feel like summer.
So, what to wear to enjoy all of it without overcomplicating things? We've put together four classic long weekend plans, with the outfits that naturally go along. Comfortable clothes, easy to layer, and versatile enough to take you from a cool morning to a sunny afternoon.
⏱️ STORY AT-A-GLANCE
One long weekend, four different plans, four outfits to match. Light pieces, easy to layer, and ready for whatever May has in store.
The key: light, practical, ready to move
In May, the weather doesn't always give you all the answers. It might be cool at the start, warm in the sun, breezy on a patio, and milder than expected in the backyard. The best strategy is to go with simple pieces that are easy to wear and easy to adjust.
A light t-shirt, an easy layering piece, comfortable shorts, a legging, or a cap can turn a basic outfit into something perfectly suited to the day. The goal isn't to plan for every scenario down to the degree. It's more about choosing pieces that keep up with your schedule, even when it changes three times before noon.
Plan 1: get outside
Mountains, trails, scenic roads, a stop in a small town, an impromptu picnic… The long weekend is perfect for getting out of the neighbourhood and seeing if the sun is just as nice somewhere else.
For this kind of day, comfort always wins. You need clothes that breathe, move well, and don't become a burden once the temperature climbs. Start with a light base, like a women's t-shirt, a men's t-shirt, or a top for kids. Add a light jacket or a hoodie for the early morning start or breaks in the shade.
On the bottom, a comfortable legging, light pants, or stretchy shorts will easily carry you through trails, detours, and long hours in the car. And because the May sun can catch you off guard, a cap quickly becomes a must.
The outfit that keeps up
- Breathable t-shirt or light top
- Legging, stretchy shorts, or soft pants
- Easy-to-remove sweater
- Cap or hat
- Comfortable sneakers
Pack an extra layer for the trip back, especially if the day ends near the water, in the mountains, or on an outdoor patio.
→ Shop the perfect clothes for moving outdoors
Plan 2: get the backyard summer-ready
You head out to move two chairs. Next thing you know, you're washing the table, repositioning the planters, rolling out the outdoor rug, and hunting for the cushions you put away "somewhere logical" last fall.
Getting the backyard summer-ready is a whole activity in itself. It calls for comfortable clothes that can handle light work and stay cool in the sun. The winning combo? A t-shirt or tank top with stretchy shorts. Simple, practical, ready for the back-and-forth between the shed, the yard, and the kitchen.
A cap helps you work outside longer, especially when the afternoon sun is beating down. And for the end of the day, keep a light jacket, an overshirt, or a light sweater by the door. Because once the yard is done, there's a good chance someone will suggest eating outside.
For the kids, think practicality. Kids' t-shirts, kids' shorts, and kids' sets are perfect for a day that mixes helping out, playing on the lawn, and snacking on the balcony.
The outfit that works hard without looking like it
- Breathable t-shirt or tank top
- Stretchy or fleece shorts
- Cap for the sun
- Light jacket or sweater for the evening
- Easy-to-wash pieces for the kids
Plan for an outfit that's comfortable enough to move in, but put-together enough to welcome the neighbours who stop by to "just say hi."
→ Find comfortable essentials for days at home
Plan 3: go on a shopping trip
Between activities, a shopping trip often comes at just the right time. The kids are short on shorts. Last year's sandals are suddenly too small. Your favourite dress needs a replacement. And the first warm days always make you want to add a little something new to your wardrobe.
Before heading out, check the store hours at your nearest Aubainerie location, as hours may vary by store.
For shopping, the ideal outfit is simple: flexible, light, and easy to take off if you're trying things on. A casual dress is a great option. It slips on quickly, stays comfortable, and looks polished without any effort. Skirts, shorts, t-shirts, and light pants also work really well for a relaxed shopping day.
For men, a light t-shirt with shorts or casual pants makes an easy base. An overshirt can also be useful if you're going from a walk outside to an air-conditioned space.
With kids, sets make life easier. Top and bottom already coordinated, fewer questions, more time to find what you need for the summer.
The outfit that makes shopping more enjoyable
- Flexible outfit that's easy to take off
- Comfortable shoes
- Light layer for air-conditioned spaces
- Practical bag to keep your hands free
- Simple pieces for kids to try on
A helpful tip: go in with a rough idea of what everyone needs. Shorts, sandals, t-shirts, swimwear, light pyjamas… a list helps avoid forgotten items and duplicate purchases.
→ Shop in store or browse the summer new arrivals online
Plan 4: meet up with friends on a patio
The sun comes out, and suddenly everyone has the same idea. A patio. An early dinner. A drink that stretches into the evening. A walk after the meal because it's still light outside.
For this plan, you want an outfit that says "I didn't try too hard," but still makes a bit of an impression. Light pieces, flowy silhouettes, and summery details are your best allies.
For women, a summer dress is always an easy choice. Solid, floral, short or long, it instantly gives a fresh, effortless look. Flowy pants with a tank top or a light blouse also work really well for an evening out with friends.
For men, the polo and chino shorts combo never goes out of style. A structured t-shirt worn with jeans or light pants also gives a clean, simple, versatile look.
Since May evenings can still be cool, an evening layer is essential. A denim jacket, a light cardigan, an overshirt, or a light sweater can make all the difference between "should we head home?" and "let's stay a little longer."
The outfit that keeps the evening going
- Dress, blouse, polo, or more structured t-shirt
- Chino shorts, jeans, or light pants
- Denim jacket, cardigan, or overshirt
- Comfortable sandals or sneakers
- Colours and prints that feel like summer
Don't forget: an easy layer to drape over your shoulders when the sun goes down.
→ Discover the perfect looks for summer outings
Smart buys for the long weekend
If you're using the Victoria Day weekend to get ready for summer, some pieces are really worth adding to the family wardrobe. These are the ones you wear often, that mix and match easily, and that go from one activity to the next without much effort.
T-shirts are the foundation of everything. Wear them with shorts, under a jacket, with jeans, or over a swimsuit when the real summer days arrive.
Shorts quickly become essential. In cotton, denim, fleece, or a stretchy fabric, they follow the kids around the yard, the parents through their projects, and everyone on last-minute outings.
Dresses are perfect for days when you want to be ready fast. One piece, polished look, no sacrifice on comfort.
Leggings stay essential for more active days. Walking, road trips, the park, outdoor chores, hiking, or a relaxed day at home — they're always the pieces you end up reaching for again.
Light jackets also deserve a prime spot. In May, they come in handy in the morning, in the evening, in air-conditioned spaces, and during any activity where the weather is still making up its mind.
Caps and hats complete outfits while keeping the sun off. A small accessory with a lot of purpose.
And for the little ones, kids' sets, baby clothing, and light pyjamas simplify busy days from morning all the way to bedtime.
→ Shop summer essentials for women, men, kids, and babies
Quick checklist before you head out
The weekend will go more smoothly if you keep a few things in mind:
- Pack a jacket, even if the day looks warm
- Go for clothes that breathe
- Choose comfortable shoes
- Bring a cap for outdoor activities
- Dress the kids in easy-to-wash pieces
- Check store hours before a shopping trip
- Keep one slightly polished piece on hand for last-minute plans
It's not about having a perfect outfit for every moment. It's about having a few essentials that adapt to whatever the day becomes.
Frequently asked questions
What should I wear for a hike in May?
Go with light layers. A breathable t-shirt, an easy-to-remove jacket, a legging or stretchy shorts, and a cap are a solid base. Since temperatures can vary between morning and afternoon, choose pieces that are easy to layer rather than one outfit that's too warm.
What should I wear to work in the backyard?
Go for comfortable, stretchy, easy-to-wash clothes. A t-shirt, a tank top, shorts, and a cap are perfect for bringing out the patio furniture, cleaning up the yard, or getting the garden ready. Keep a light jacket by the door for the end of the day.
What should I wear for a shopping trip on a long weekend?
Choose something relaxed, flexible, and easy to take off if you're planning to try things on. A casual dress, a t-shirt with shorts, light pants, or a comfortable set are all good options. Add a light layer if you'll be going in and out of air-conditioned spaces.
What should I wear on a patio in the spring?
Go for something light, but always plan for an evening layer. A summer dress, flowy pants, a polo, a structured t-shirt, or a light shirt all work well. Finish with a denim jacket, an overshirt, or a cardigan.
What clothes should I buy to kick off the summer?
Prioritize pieces you'll reach for often: t-shirts, shorts, dresses, leggings, light jackets, caps, sandals, and light pants. Choose versatile pieces that move easily from one activity to the next.
Start summer without overthinking it
Victoria Day weekend has a charm all its own. It signals the days spent outside, the evenings that stretch longer, the spontaneous getaways, and the small moments that feel so good after a long winter.
Whether you're heading out for a hike, getting the yard in order, stopping by the store, or meeting up with friends, your clothes should keep up with your pace. Nothing complicated. Just comfortable, versatile pieces ready for the first real days of summer.
At Aubainerie, you'll find clothes for the whole family, made for life here: the kind that start with a jacket, transition into a t-shirt, and end up outside, a little later than planned.
