For the Long Haul

L.L. Bean Boat and Tote

 

I was reading a recent article in the New York Times/Wirecutter about purchases that will last you a lifetime. One of their picks is the L.L.Bean Boat and Tote.

“Knockoffs of our picks proliferate...if you were to compare any of them with the real L.L.Bean Boat and Tote, it would be no contest.”

— New York Times Wirecutter

I have posted several times about my collection of L.L. Bean Boat and Totes - some of them I have had for decades. It is actually quite chic and a "badge of honor" to have vintage ones that show their age. 

You probably know that it has always been popular to monogram them with your initials or name. Nowadays it is quite chic to use a word or short phrase. I have one with tongue in chic "Old Money" embroidered and another with "Noble Rot" embroidered - an extra large one I use to tote my wine tasting paraphernalia. A popular word to have embroidered right now is "Anxious." I leave a tote in my car for Aldi, farmer's markets, dry cleaning, errands, and such.

A head's up that they have really expanded their sizes and colors. Some new favorites - 

I love the mini Boat and Tote. It makes a great handbag and is a great gift. It is always on back order it is so popular! Available in 4 colors.

Mini Boat and Tote

And the classic Boat and Tote is now available in many more colors - a dozen including new fun colors like orange in addition to the classics - 

Open Top Boat and Tote in Orange

A favorite of mine is the Extra - Large size which is massive. I use them for storage - dog toys, Christmas ornaments, beach gear, and such.

I also love that their beautiful embroidered monograms cost only $8 and are available in many styles and loads of thread colors.