Deep Creek Lake is famous for its outdoor fun and small-town feel, and now there’s a new shop that’s quickly becoming a favorite for locals and visitors. Only two months after moving to its new location, Blair’s By the Lake is showing that great fashion, friendly service, and strong community relationships are a recipe for success.
For owner Blair Glass, opening the store in its new location happened quickly and brought many new opportunities. The store first opened at The Fort in McHenry. Very soon after, a bigger and more visible spot became available. Instead of staying put, Glass saw a chance to grow and improve the business. “It happened pretty quickly,” he explained. “The opportunity was there, and we knew we had to take it.”
Moving the store was exciting but also challenging. Because it was late in the season, getting inventory was at the forefront of his mind. . Many suppliers had already filled their orders, so getting seasonal merchandise due to deadlines was first priority. Luckily, Glass’s experience and business connections made a big difference. “There was definitely pressure to get suppliers to meet our needs,” he said. “But through some great connections and a lot of hard work, we were able to get great inventory in quickly.”
All that hard work paid off. Blair’s By the Lake opened on time in April 2026, greeting customers with new merchandise and displays that showed off the store’s style right away. The idea started with wanting to bring back a well-known men’s clothing store to Deep Creek Lake. Investors reached out to Glass because they saw a need for quality men’s fashion in Garrett County. Instead of just repeating the past, he decided to make the store even more than before.
Today, Blair’s By the Lake still focuses on men’s fashion but also features a carefully chosen selection for women. A major strength of the store is its selection of clothing that fits the lives of people in Garrett County and visitors to Deep Creek Lake. Whether you’re going golfing, spending time on the lake, going to a wedding, or just having a relaxed night out, you’ll find clothes that are stylish, comfortable, and practical.
The men’s section is still a key part of the store. Shoppers can find popular brands like Flag & Anthem, Fusion Golf, Born Primitive, plus lots of swimwear and sportswear for active people. The selection has something for everyone, from young adults and vacation homeowners to longtime locals who want quality clothes nearby. The store currently has a timely selection of apparel to help celebrate the nation’s 250th birthday. You can grab an outfit that honors this moment in time.
Beyond casual apparel, Blair’s By the Lake also offers services you won’t find in many other local stores. They specialize in custom men’s suits, so customers can get clothing that fits their style and measurements. Whether it’s for a wedding, business event, or any special occasion, shoppers can work with the staff to create a look that’s just right for them. From prom season and weddings to black-tie events and celebrations, customers can now secure formal attire locally without making lengthy trips outside the county.
While menswear continues at the heart of the business, adding women’s fashion has made shopping at the store even more exciting. Blair intentionally brought in staff members who specialize in women’s apparel. Their expertise has played a role in shaping a selectively curated collection that focuses on quality first and foremost. The women’s section has clothes, shoes, handbags, and accessories picked to fit the lives of locals and visitors. Brands like Charlie B, Tribal, Apricot, and Amsterdam Heritage offer modern style, comfort, and flexibility.
The aim isn’t to give customers too many choices, but to offer carefully chosen pieces that help women feel confident and stylish. Along with clothing, the store also offers jewelry and accessories. One featured brand is Atelier Jewelry, which is waterproof, durable, affordable, and comes with a lifetime guarantee. The jewelry adds to the shopping experience, letting customers finish an outfit or find a special gift.
Since the move, one pleasant surprise has been seeing many familiar customers return.
he new, more visible spot has brought back longtime customers and attracted new ones. Some visitors remember the store’s tradition of quality menswear, while others are just now discovering all the products and services it offers.
For Glass, building these relationships is one of the best parts of running the store. He believes retail is really about people. Online shopping might be easy, but it can’t match the personal service, helpful advice, and chance to see and try on products in person. That personal approach is evident throughout the store. Customers are greeted by staff who understand the products and brands, and who take time to help shoppers find exactly what they need.
The store’s location is becoming a destination in its own right. Right by Deep Creek Lake in the old Truist Bank location, Blair’s By the Lake gives visitors another reason to check out the area besides the outdoor activities. After spending time on the lake, golfing, or eating out, the boutique offers a relaxed and fun place to shop. It’s a great spot to find a new outfit, buy a gift, or simply discover something new.
As Glass puts it, Blair’s By the Lake offers a “great selection of high quality men’s and women’s clothing.” That uncomplicated approach seems to be working.
Only a few months after opening in its new spot, the store has already become a valued part of the Deep Creek Lake business community. With quality clothes, custom menswear, formal wear, curated women’s fashion, and great service, Blair’s By the Lake comes across as both new and welcoming.
Locals now have easy access to brands and services that were previously hard to find. Visitors get a unique shopping experience that adds to everything they already enjoy about Deep Creek Lake.
If you’re looking for something to do after dinner on your vacation, Blair’s By the Lake could become your new favorite Deep Creek tradition.
Blairs hours are currently Monday - Saturday from 10 AM - 6 PM and Sundays 10 AM - 5 PM.
Article courtesy of The Lakefront Magazine.
