I am an L.L. Bean convert.
At the age of seven, my mother forced me to choose the color of an L.L. Bean backpack. With some disdain, I choose red and became bitter that I could not get the Powerpuff Girls backpack that I desperately wanted. Ever since the backpack debacle of 1996, I was never fond of L.L. Bean.
This fall, I purchased a pair of L.L. Bean Boots in desperation to keep my feet dry throughout the tumultuous Rochester winter. After the first snowfall, I fell in love with my Bean Boots. These boots kept my feet warm and dry, prevented me from falling on the slippery Phase Bridge, and kept me sartorially inclined.
The Maine Hunting Shoe has become a staple within preppy circles. Designed for moose hunters in Maine in 1912, this boot is commonly spotted at Harvard Square. Although none of us will be hunting moose at UofR, these boots are perfect for the lax plowing standards on this campus.
Thankfully, this New England staple is reemerging at University of Rochester. Khakis, dark wash jeans, and cozy sweaters are a natural pairing; however, done correctly, Bean Boots look lovely with a skirt and tights. The classic American styling and neutral tones allow for versatility. For ideas, check out the Bean Boot Project, The Sartorialist, or Corks and Caftans. I personally love L.L. Bean Boots with navy blazers or a shawl collar pullover.
LL Bean Boots start around eighty dollars, and will last longer than your stay at the University of Rochester. Luckily, you can pick up a pair of L.L. Bean Boots at the Eastview Mall.