Q: What should I pack for a weekend on Cape Cod with a new flame?

A: It all depends on you and the flame and where you're staying on the Cape. Maybe you're borrowing Aunt Sally's cottage that's been in the family for a million years and features comfy mismatched furniture, a fireplace and a front porch with a fab view of the ocean, in which case a bathing suit, a couple of Ts, a sweatshirt in case it's chilly and a pair of old rolled-up jeans and some sandals could be all you'll want or need. (Well, definitely take a sunhat, and throw in a slicker just in case.) I could go for that myself.

Or maybe you're headed for a serious resort, in which case you might be inspired by the Jackie Kennedy show that was at the Metropolitan Museum to invest in several pair of pristine white jeans and/or linen trousers and some narrow navy blue Ts and maybe a cashmere sweater to tie over your shoulders and some big black or tortoise sunglasses. And a sleek navy-blue or black maillot swimsuit or, if you're up for it, a flowery bikini. And then something sarong-like for evening. Or a long cotton sundress in whatever color matches your eyes. And frivolous thong sandals with kitten heels in some other bright color. Add a silk flower for your hair, and sparkle in the moonlight over Cape Cod Bay...

Patricia McLaughlin is a nationally syndicated fashion columnist.
Read more of Patsy's answers.