For those of us lucky enough to partake in east coast living (and inevitable winter weather), it’s common knowledge that finding clothes to stymie chill and slush is a long-term process. There are a select few new jackets here or on-sale flannels there that do the trick, but just as often, your go-to winter boots come from the back of dad’s closet, not fresh from the mall. Indeed, there’s a real draw and comfort in hardy hand-me-downs: the sentimental value, but also the tangible long-lost quality construction of a pre-fast-fashion world.
L.L. Bean is tackling the age-old question of whether “to buy or to raid the family home attic,” with the enticing answer of “why not both?” The Pre-Loved Collection is the company’s first endeavor of kind, following in the trail-blazer footsteps of thrifting-obsessed teens to launch a virtual vintage sale via the legacy outfitter’s Instagram. Sourced from flea markets and fairs across the country over a multi-year process, each item has been thoroughly refurbished and re-tagged, while maintaining that lobster-loving charm we’ve come to expect from the outdoor brand.
The Pre-Loved collection is set to release in three weekly installments, Oct. 13-27, and features fleece to flannels and back. The first drop, centered around shirting and light layers, is impeccably catered to modern sensibilities, despite the pieces’ varying ages; a straight-out-of-the-‘90s Chamois Shirt (pictured below) in a stunning forest green is one of our personal favorites, as is the fall-ready checked Maine Guide Shirt.
The 28-item collection is available for purchase via the in-app Stories feature. Set your alarms, dust off your credit card, and let the folks know you won’t be home with a duffle and ulterior motives this year: L.L. Bean has you covered.
We've put in the work researching, reviewing and rounding up all the shirts, jackets, shoes and accessories you'll need this season, whether it's for yourself of for gifting purposes. Sign up here for weekly style inspo direct to your inbox.