LL Bean Is Now a Japanese Streetwear Brand (& It's Pretty Excellent)
LL Bean knew what they were doing when they brought their classic Americana brand to Japan. Where else do you go to make a timeless name cooler?
Based in Japan and developed by Japanese designers, LL Bean Japan Edition features outdoor pieces directly borrowed from the Maine-based line's classic shapes but updated with a slightly more interesting, elevated look and thoughtful craft.
Having first released in 2023, LL Bean Japan Edition returns with another banger offering, including a variety of layering pieces in soft makes. The latest drop only further blends Japanese streetwear cues with direct inspiration from the label’s vintage outdoorsy roots.
The new LL Bean Japan Edition capsule is centered around the Field jacket, a staple of LL Bean, offered in light blue and beige colorways. With the barn coat craze still going strong, I suspect the LL Bean Japan Edition jacket will be a hot pickup for the outdoors-inclined.
The brand also offers up a Windy Ridge jacket referencing a lightweight coat that LL Bean originally released in the 90s but patiently discontinued some time after the early 2000s.
Finally, the latest LL Bean Japan Edition collection reissues the Roxbury vest, a two-toned windbreaker layer with a retro feel that's quite popular with Japanese retailers.
For instance, all of these outerwear pieces are available now from stores like United Arrows and Urban Research, along with a handful of other sizeable Japanese retailers.
If you've been keeping up with LL Bean's Japan Edition, you won't be surprised to hear this collection is hardly the first to have echoed previous styles released as part of previous collections.
From Bean Boots to the beloved tote bags, LL Bean's offerings span the world, and for good reason.
While the original LL Bean will always hold a special place in my heart (and closet), it's time for me to bring the Japan Edition in...before it all sells out.
