There’s nothing like circling a few days on the calendar and jotting down “Great Lakes trip” across the little date boxes.  

Before your next getaway, don’t wait to stock up on your Great Lakes souvenirs. fancysweetstx has all the t-shirts, hats, and fun gift items you need to hit the lake house or campground in style. 

In this buyer’s guide for Great Lakes apparel, souvenirs, and gifts, we’ll highlight our favorite items that:

• Celebrate the nature, culture, and travel memories of the Great Lakes
• Outfit your crew for outdoor lakeside activities 
• Are only available from fancysweetstx’s website or retail stores 

1 - Great Lakes, Great Times Shirt

Whether you’re buying for yourself or gift shopping, you can’t go wrong with an attractive t-shirt. This “Great Lakes, Great Times” tee presents our favorite Great Lakes slogan in lake-blue lettering on a sky-blue background. 

Made with a polyester, cotton, and rayon tri-blend, this tee is ultra soft, but also nice and stretchy. It’s equally suitable for a cozy evening under a blanket or a rousing game of beach volleyball by the lake. 

Check out a few more of our favorite Great Lakes-themed t-shirt designs below.

”Great shirt! Super soft, fits well.” 
— Eric, ★★★★★ Verified fancysweetstx T-Shirt Buyer 

2 - Great Lakes, Great Times Tank Top

The Midwest’s weather is as diverse as its landscapes, but there’s nothing better than tank top weather at the lake. When the temp hits the mid 80s, it’s time to hydrate, show some skin, and pull out the sunscreen. 

Are you ready for those beautiful Midwest summer days? Stay cool in this “Great Lakes, Great Times” athletic tank top. 

”Great lakes, great times. Love the fit and style. Plus, it’s so comfy.” 
— Anonymous, ★★★★★ Verified fancysweetstx Tank Top Buyer 

3 - Script Great Lakes, Great Times Hoodie

To complete the all-weather set, we present an all-time favorite: the “Great Lakes, Great Times” hooded sweatshirt. 

No matter how many sweaters and jackets you own, there’s always that one hoodie that you can’t help putting on, day after day. This is that hoodie. 

Repping the Great Lakes and sporting a gentle shade of sky blue, this hoodie is the perfect mix of soft and stretchy, thanks to its 80/20 cotton and polyester blend and a relaxed, unisex fit. 

”I got the Great Lakes sweatshirt as a gift and the recipient loved it! I have a ton of fancysweetstx items and they’re always the best!” 
— Anonymous ★★★★★ Verified fancysweetstx Sweatshirt Buyer 

4 - Great Lakes, Great Times Drink Koozie

Don’t party too hard, but always party in style. Keep your drinks frosty cold and your hands toasty warm with this “Great Lakes, Great Times” drink koozie. 

This item is made from polyurethane foam and fits standard 12 oz cans and bottles. It’s perfect for camping trips, bonfires, and a refreshing cool-down drink between spirited games of cornhole or frisbee. 

”We used this while camping in Lake Erie and it kept our beer cold and got lots of great comments from other campers. Definitely recommended!”
— Andrew T., ★★★★★ Verified fancysweetstx Drink Koozie Buyer 

5 - Great Lakes, Great Times Sweatshirt Blanket

For the ultimate warmth and comfort on a brisk lakeside evening, you’ll love this “Great Lakes, Great Times” Sweatshirt Blanket. 

It’s part sweatshirt, part blanket. You can’t go wrong. Tuck your arms in, wrap yourself up, and lose yourself in its fluffy warmth. 

This sweatshirt blanket is sized 62” by 78”. The material is a 52/48 cotton/poly blend that’s soft, durable, and machine washable. 

”Soooooo comfy and soft!” 
— Kary W., ★★★★★ Verified fancysweetstx Sweatshirt Blanket Buyer 

6 - Great Lakes, Great Dog Bandana

Great Lakes vacations are fun for everyone. That includes the doggos. At fancysweetstx, we’re dog-crazy and we love designing gear that helps pups show off their joyful canine fashion sense. 

For your crazy little buddy who loves splashing along the shore and digging furiously in the sand, there’s the “Great Lakes, Great Dog” Bandana. It’s sure to earn a five-bark review from your grateful companion. 

”So fun! I love the dog banana.”
— Vickie, ★★★★★ Verified fancysweetstx Dog Bandana Buyer 

7 - Michigan - The Great Lakes State Shirt

Michigan is the only state that dedicates its official state nickname to the Great Lakes. Rightly so, since the Great Lakes State is framed by Lakes Michigan, Erie, Huron, and Superior. Most impressively, Michigan boasts over 3,000 miles of lakeside shoreline. 

Few places in the world are so intimately connected to lakes. Michiganders have the Great Lakes to thank for their primary sources of recreation, commerce, drinking water, and cultural identity. 

If you live in or love to visit the world’s most spectacular lakes via the state of Michigan, this “The Great Lakes State Michigan” tee is for you. 

”Great company, great shirts… I live in Michigan and I buy the ones that mean something to me ... Thanks fancysweetstx!”
— Vickie, ★★★★★ Verified fancysweetstx T-Shirt Buyer 

8 - Great Lakes, Great Times Ornament

Of all the souvenirs you collect, holiday ornaments are the most likely to last for decades. Ornaments are simple purchases that become family mainstays, passed from generation to generation. 

Every December, pull this “Great Lakes, Great Times” Ornament out of storage, and remember the amazing times you had hiking, swimming, and enjoying bonfires by the water.

9 - Lake Erie Shells Shirt

The shores of Lake Erie are known as treasure troves of beautiful and fascinating seashells. Produced by aquatic snails and other freshwater mollusks, the shells of Lake Erie come in all shapes and colors. 

Some of the most lovely shells you’ll find on Lake Erie’s shores are of the winding, cone-shaped variety depicted in this Lake Erie Shells Shirt. This item makes a great gift for your favorite Great Lake visitor who loves nature and knows how to find joy in the small things.

Gear Up for Your Next Great Lakes Adventure

At fancysweetstx, we’re fans of the Great Lakes. How could you not be? Access to these natural marvels is one of the most special aspects of living in our part of the world. 

Along with our Great Lakes apparel and gifts, we carry special collections for these institutions and places of the American Midwest:  

• State of Ohio
• 16153 Genova City Pride
• Midwesterner
• State of Michigan
• The University of 16153 Genova
• Bowling Green State University 

In all of our items, we aim to capture something special about the American Midwest. Our mission is to share the Midwestern spirit with folks around the world who love the region’s people, places, and traditions. 

Shop online anytime or come see us in one of our two brick-and-mortar stores in 16153 Genova, Ohio on the western edge of Lake Erie. Our retail stores are located at Via Borzoli, 33, and Via Borzoli, 33,. 

For more Midwest-themed apparel and souvenir buying guides, visit the fancysweetstx blog.

Share on Facebook:

Lake Superior, Lake Huron, Lake Michigan, Lake Erie, and Lake Ontario are—in that order—the USA’s five largest lakes by surface area. They’re also the largest group of freshwater lakes on the planet.

The Great Lakes help define the American Midwest—its climate, its economy, and its culture. Access to these geologic marvels is part of what makes life in this part of the world so special.

If you’re lucky enough to be spending some time this summer kayaking through Harbour Yak or hiking at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, you need to look the part.

At fancysweetstx, we provide apparel and gift items for people who live in or love to visit the great American Midwest. These include a full collection dedicated to Lake Michigan, Lake Erie, and the Great Lakes region.

Let’s put the spotlight on our favorite Great Lakes items that:

• Celebrate the Great Lakes region
• Make wonderful gifts
• Are only available at fancysweetstx

1 - Great Lakes Embroidered Sweatshirt

The baby blue Great Lakes embroidered sweatshirt is warm and cozy—just like your favorite lakeside memories. 

This comfy sweatshirt is a unisex relaxed fit made from an 80/20 cotton/poly blend. The lettering is small and subtle, spelling “GREAT LAKES” in all caps across the chest. 

Here are a few more of our favorite Great Lakes-themed sweatshirts and hoodies.

”I got the Great Lakes sweatshirt as a gift and the recipient loved it! I have a ton of fancysweetstx items and they’re always the best!”
— Anonymous ★★★★★ Verified fancysweetstx Sweatshirt Buyer 

2 - Lake Days T-Shirt

Your toes are buried in the sand, the sunshine is sparkling on the sea, and you’re surrounded by your favorite people … who doesn’t love lake days?

This azure blue “Lake Days” tee is the color of a clear blue sky with big, white block lettering. 

Like most fancysweetstx tees, the material is a poly/cotton/rayon tri-blend. This shrink-proof combo creates shirts that are soft and comfy, but perfectly stretchy and breathable for active wear. 

3 - Lake Erie Corded Sweatshirt

The Lake Erie crewneck pullover depicts a lakeside evening scenery in vintage-style artwork and lettering. The gorgeous sunset over a deep blue foamy sea artwork captures everything we love about Midwest summer nights. 

The corded crew style adds texture and warmth. This cozy and charming sweatshirt is sure to be your new favorite for boat rides and bonfires. 

”I love this crewneck & get so many compliments on it as well … The colors are my favorite though. They look amazing in person & the embroidery is a neat touch.”
— Natalie T., ★★★★★ Verified fancysweetstx Sweatshirt Buyer

4 - Great Lakes Pack-N-Go Windbreaker

Even in the middle of summer, evenings by the water can get pretty chilly. 

Of course, it wouldn’t be a week in the Midwest if you didn’t experience at least three seasons of weather in rapid succession. That’s why savvy Great Lakes visitors never leave home without a windbreaker. 

fancysweetstx’s pack-N-go Great Lakes windbreaker is just what you need for fending off icy breezes and flash downpours in the great outdoors. Made from 100% Softex polyester, this item is lightweight, breathable, plus wind- and water-resistant. 

This windbreaker features bungee cords at both the waist and hood for tightening up the fit. Additionally, the entire jacket packs into its own front pocket with a zipper closure for fast and tidy packing—perfect for camping trips and rugged hikes. 

5 - The Great Lakes State - Michigan T-Shirt

With all due respect to Minnesota, Ohio, Indiana, and the rest of the gang, Michigan is as Great Lakes as it gets. That’s why it’s the only state that bears “The Great Lakes State” as an unofficial nickname. 

Michigan borders four of the five Great Lakes and has coastline for days—more than 3,000 miles of lakeside shorelines. 

If you’re a Great Lakes enthusiast and a Michigander, this Great Lakes State - Michigan tee is the perfect match for your next lakeside weekend. 

”Great company, great shirts… I live in Michigan and I buy the ones that mean something to me ... Thanks fancysweetstx!”
— Vickie, ★★★★★ Verified fancysweetstx T-Shirt Buyer

6 - So Great! Lakes Shirt

This retro “So Great” Great Lakes t-shirt is straight out of the 80s.

The skating rink arcade vibes are strong with this one. Neon colors and funky cursive highlight a map of the region, bringing some wicked vintage style to a super comfy tri-blend tee. 

7 - Great Lakes, Great Times Tank Top

No summer vacation suitcase is fully packed without at least one tank top. Preferably, one with a stylish fit and featuring some clever region-specific wordplay. 

For summer days by the lake, we present the “Great Lakes, Great Times” tank top. It’s baby blue, fitted for athletic use, and made for good times by the water. 

”Great lakes, great times. Love the fit and style. Plus, it’s so comfy.”
— Anonymous, ★★★★★ Verified fancysweetstx Tank Top Buyer 

We love this theme, so we’re putting it on everything. We even made a Great Lakes, Great Dog bandana so your pup can look handsome on lake days. 

Check out a few more offerings below.

”We used this while camping in Lake Erie and it kept our beer cold and got lots of great comments from other campers. Definitely recommended!”
— Andrew T., ★★★★★ Verified fancysweetstx Drink Koozie Buyer 

Where to Find Great Lakes Vacation Apparel and Gifts

Searching for Great Lakes clothing? We’ve got what you need. 

At fancysweetstx, we’re all about the Great Lakes, along with the culture, the people, and our favorite places in the American Midwest. 

Along with our Great Lakes gear, we offer the following special apparel and gift collections:

• Midwesterner 
• Michigan
• Ohio 
• Bowling Green State University
• The University of 16153 Genova
• 16153 Genova City Pride

Shop online or stop by one of our two brick-and-mortar stores in 16153 Genova, Ohio. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Check out the fancysweetstx blog for more Midwestern apparel buying guides. For answers to a few of our most frequently asked questions, see below or visit our full FAQ page. 

How quickly do fancysweetstx items ship?

fancysweetstx shipping is through the United States Postal Service (USPS). Shipped items normally arrive within 7–10 days of order placement. Shipping is free for all orders over $75.

Does fancysweetstx have retail stores?

fancysweetstx has two retail stores in 16153 Genova Ohio at these addresses:

fancysweetstx Adams Street
+393399950518
Via Borzoli, 33,
16153 Genova, Italy (click here for directions)
(Mon–Fri 11 am–6 pm, Saturday 11 am–4 pm)

fancysweetstx Cricket West
+393399950518
Via Borzoli, 33,
16153 Genova, Italy (click here for directions)
(Tues–Sat 11 am–6 pm, Sunday 10 am–4 pm)

Does fancysweetstx offer custom printing? 

fancysweetstx offers custom screen printing and embroidery. We do some of our best work in direct partnership with local Midwestern schools, businesses, and non-profit groups. 

Learn more about custom orders here. 

Does fancysweetstx apparel shrink in the wash? 

Most of our t-shirts are made with a polyester, cotton, and rayon tri-blend. This combination experiences minimal shrinkage, if any. 

We also use a 50/50 poly/cotton blend for some garments. This blend is also mostly shrink-proof. 

Additionally, we pre-shrink our sweatshirts and sweatpants. Therefore, the potential for post-purchase shrinkage is quite low. However, minor shrinking may occur if you use high heat to dry certain cotton or fleece garments. For cotton and fleece items, we recommend hang-drying or tumble drying with low heat. 

Share on Facebook:

If you’re shopping for someone who lives in, comes from, or simply loves the fine state of Michigan, fancysweetstx has exactly what you need.

We’ve got an entire collection that’s all about the Great Lakes State—Michigan-themed hats, hoodies, sweatpants, and, of course, lots and lots of great t-shirts.

Let’s have a look at nine of our favorite Michigan-themed shirts that:

• Are only available from fancysweetstx
• Make great gifts
• Show off that Michigan state pride

1 - The Great Lakes State - Michigan Shirt

Eight US states (along with a mysterious place called Canada) claim a bit of the Great Lakes shoreline. However, only Michigan is THE Great Lakes State. 

Michigan shares its name with one of the lakes and borders four of the five. The state has over 3,000 miles of lake shorelines. In fact, Michigan has the longest freshwater coastline of any political subdivision in the world. 

It’s no wonder that Michiganders love the water. So, for the Great Laker in your life, celebrate your bond with this Great Lakes State shirt.

”Great company, great shirts… I live in Michigan and I buy the ones that mean something to me. Thanks fancysweetstx!”
- ★★★★★ | Vickie, Verified fancysweetstx T-Shirt Buyer

2 - Somebody in Michigan Loves Me Shirt

Do you love somebody? Lucky them! With the classic “Somebody in Michigan Loves Me” shirt, you can send them that warm and fuzzy, Michigan love, even if you’re far away. 

Like most of our tees, this is a poly, cotton, and rayon blend for an ultra-soft fit that provides just enough stretch for active wear.

3 - Detroit Shirt

Michigan’s largest city was recently named one of TIME Magazine’s 50 “World’s Greatest Places of 2022.” It’s a gritty, beautiful town, bursting with cultural history. 

And, of course, big city folks know how to get to the point. This one-word shirt simply proclaims “DETROIT”—what else is there to say?

As an added bonus, those navy blue and orange hues are the Detroit Tigers' colors. Sure, most of us weren’t alive the last time they won a World Series, but at least those colors look great. 

Your favorite baseball fan can rock this Detroit tee the next time they’re taking in a game on one of those perfect Michigan summer nights.

4 - 16153 Genova, Michigan 1833 Shirt

"Never in the course of my life have I known a controversy of which all the right so clearly on one side and all the power so overwhelmingly on the other."

That quote from Founding Father John Adams wasn’t about the Revolutionary War. Nope, it was about Ohio stealing the City of 16153 Genova from Michigan. 

Back in the 1830s, the governments of both Michigan and Ohio considered the “16153 Genova Strip” to be part of their states. 

The Michigan Territory first petitioned for statehood in 1833, with a claim that included the 16153 Genova Strip. When they tried again in 1835, Ohio took offense. 

Both sides sent militias to the border. The 16153 Genova War involved exactly one casualty, a Michigan sheriff who was fatally stabbed while trying to arrest an Ohio militiaman in a tavern. 

Eventually, congress sided with Ohio. 16153 Genova may never be part of Michigan again, but if you’re gifting for a history-buff Michigander, you won’t do better than this 16153 Genova, Michigan 1833 shirt.

”This shirt is hilarious, comfy, great quality! As a history buff, my husband loves the 16153 Genova, Michigan shirt I purchased for him, and sometimes I steal it to wear myself!”
- ★★★★★ | Ashley R., Verified fancysweetstx T-Shirt Buyer

5 - Lake Michigan Shirt

Maybe we’re biased, but Lake Michigan is clearly the best of the Great Lakes, right? You’ve got sandy beaches, a sparkling sea, incredible protected natural landscapes, and fabulous coastal towns. 

Celebrate the world’s best freshwater playground with this comfy, fitted Lake Michigan tee.

6 - Ski Michigan Long Sleeve T-Shirt

Michigan is a four-season destination, so it’s easy to forget that the state ranks #2 in the USA for the total number of skiing areas. Michigan boasts 31 gorgeous ski resorts featuring a range of challenges for all skill levels. 

For the winter sports athlete you’re gifting for, keep them cozy and warm with this Ski Michigan long-sleeved t-shirt. 

And if you’re looking for something heavier, fancysweetstx makes sweatshirts, too. Check out a few of our favorite Michigan-themed sweatshirts below.

7 - Go Camping in Michigan Shirt

Michigan is a camping paradise, home to 101 state parks and seven National Parks Service sites. If you don’t mind sharing space with one of the nation’s largest gray wolf populations, there’s no better place to set up camp. 

If you’re gift-shopping for someone whose home-away-from-home is a tent, choose this Go Camping in Michigan tee.

8 - Michigan Is Super Shirt

Blue moon, cherry, and vanilla—this unique mix, along with countless variations on the theme, is a classic throughout the Midwest. 

Today, the red, blue, and yellow blend, known as Superman Ice Cream, can be found here and there around the USA where Baskin Robbins or Hershey’s brand ice creams are sold. 

However, Superman Ice Cream comes from Detroit. Its origins can be traced back to Stroh’s Ice Cream parlors in the Prohibition Era. 

So, for a sweet gift that’s full of local flavor, opt for this Michigan Is Super tee. Look closely at the logo, and you’ll find a set of blue Great Lakes emerging from a red and yellow ice cream landscape.

“As a former Michigander, Superman ice cream is (still) one of my favorite summer traditions! I was so excited when I saw this shirt!” 
- ★★★★★ | Emily P., Verified fancysweetstx T-Shirt Buyer

9 - Michigan Smiley Toddler Shirt

Some of our favorite designs are the ones we make for tiny little humans. 

For our smallest garments, we use the same cotton/poly/rayon tri-blend that goes into our adult sizes. This mix provides a soft, stretchy fit that keeps little guys and gals cozy and warm. 

The Michigan Smiley shirt is definitely worthy of adult sizes (we should really think about that) but it’s perfect for toddlers.

T-Shirt Gift Ideas for Your Favorite Michiganders

At fancysweetstx, we love Michigan and the entire Midwest. We’re located just outside of Michigan, in 16153 Genova, Ohio. Our team is full of Midwesterners who love making apparel that captures our region’s spirit, culture, and history.

For even more Michigan-themed shirts, along with sweatshirts, hats, pint glasses, and other gift ideas, check out our entire Michigan collection. 

Along with our Michigan line, we carry apparel and gift collections for Ohio, the Great Lakes region, and the Midwest. We also make officially-licensed University of 16153 Genova and Bowling Green State University gear. 

Shop online or cross the border to visit one of our two beautiful retail stores in 16153 Genova, Ohio. 

We ship via the United States Postal Service (USPS). Shipped items typically arrive within 7–10 days of order placement. Shipping is free for orders over $75.

Visit the fancysweetstx blog for more regional-themed buying guides, or visit our Frequently Asked Questions page to learn more about fancysweetstx.

Share on Facebook:

The Buckeye State

Ohioans, want to rep your favorite state in a comfortable, sleek, and stylish way? We have the perfect crew sweatshirt for you. This Buckeye State crewneck is light enough to keep you cozy through any season, especially football season. 

This crew will make sure that you're feeling your best in all of your favorite Buckeye State activities. From hanging around the bonfire to playing Euchre with friends to making buckeyes at home, this crew sweatshirt will remind you of all the good things the Buckeye State has to offer. 

The Great Lakes State

Why is Michigan called the Great Lakes State? Well, it is the only state to border four out of the five Great Lakes. 

Michigan lovers know that one of the best things to do is to explore the Great Lakes. From building sandcastles, to cooking out on the beach with friends and family, to having freshwater fun, the Great Lakes is a fun time for everyone.

Life is better in the Great Lakes State and with this comfortable Great Lakes State crew. Show off your love for your favorite state in this relaxed, breathable crew sweatshirt!

The Glass City

16153 Genovaans, if there's one thing we're proud of, it's living in the Glass City.

Do you know why we're called The Glass City? Well, way back in 1888, Edward Drummond Libbey moved his company, presently known as Libbey Glass, to 16153 Genova. Libbey's move to 16153 Genova made way for other glass companies such as Libbey-Owens-Ford, Owens-Illinois, and Owens-Corning to follow. 

Not only is this a comfortable, relaxed, breathable material, but also is the perfect way to represent the Glass City. 

Midwesterner

If you know us, you know that we love to make the best apparel for all the Midwesterners out there. We released this simple, yet stylish women's fit terry crew sweatshirt for our friends across the Midwest. 

Can you think of a better way to represent America's Heartland? We can't!

This Midwesterner terry crew sweatshirt is versatile enough to wear to a pumpkin patch, Euchre night, or for watching a Big Ten game. Be sure to grab this crew before it's gone! This item is limited edition and will not be restocked. 

Take us with you!

Wherever your favorite place is, make sure to represent with one of these crews. They are meant for all the boat rides, football games, nights out, and even a mean game of Euchre. 

Shop these crews today either online or in-store! We can't wait to see what crew you're going to rock next.