L.L. Bean changes styles: Millions of preppies spill their gin and tonics

Updated

With preppy clothing going through yet another resurgence and camping coming into vogue as a vacation option, L.L. Bean has embarked on a business decision that could be incredibly lucrative ... or completely devastating: it is changing its design.

According to a recent article in The New York Times, the company has hired Alex Carleton, a popular, edgy designer, to be the creative director of its new "L.L. Bean Signature" line. Coming out in March, the new products promise to be more tailored and contemporary, with buffalo plaid shirts and tailored linen blazers.

While this may seem to be a minor change, it cuts to the heart of what, exactly, "preppy" means. For many, the prep look seems to consist of adding a few key elements into one's wardrobe. The idea is that one can take a ribbon belt here, a pair of cranberry pants there, add in some Sperry topsiders, stir with a fresh gin and tonic and -- presto! -- prep is attained.

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