L.L. Bean’s Getting A New Look, But Some Of The Old Stuff Is OK

L.L. Bean is best known for outfitting New Englanders who enjoy outdoor activities like camping and who appreciate a simple “gets-the-job-done” look. In March, however, the Maine-based company will get a bit of a makeover: L.L. Bean has hired Alex Carleton, who founded Rogues Gallery and has previously designed for Ralph Lauren and Abercrombie & Fitch, as creative director. Carleton’s first order of business is L.L. Bean Signature, a collection of updated and more chic outdoorsy clothing. [NY Times]

I’ve never been L.L. Bean’s target customer. I don’t like bugs, and my idea of roughing it is applying my makeup using a compact mirror instead of a full-length one. But I decided to take a look at their clothing pre-makeover, and I actually found some items I’d totally wear. Here’s the best of what L.L. Bean has to offer if you’re looking for style above function. (Warning! Avoid the bottoms i.e. pants, skirts, skorts, etc.)