The Bean Boot Project: Guide To Bad Taste Guest Post

Fresh off of Junctioned's wonderful piece I am happy to present another long time reader and fellow style blogger submission. John Lugg, aka The Enthusiast around these parts, runs the entertaining blog Guide To Bad Taste.  What I love about GTBT and John's writing is that he doesn't take himself too seriously.  Too often people get caught up in all this nonsense and forget we are writing simply about material things.  John, on the other hand, always has his tongue planted firmly in cheek as he discusses various items that some, actually many, would consider in bad taste.  After reading a good number of blogs that rehash lots of the same stuff (my own included) it's always refreshing to read John discussing the pros and cons of something like Air Force One's or comic book themed t-shirts.  There aren't too many talented "haters" in this world, but John somehow manages to do it in style.

John's guest post is one of the more interesting anecdotes sent over thus far, as should be expected.  His tale touches upon a missed opportunity, an opportunity taken and, like any good story, a little bit of vomit.

"I certainly believed that I had nothing to submit for this project as of a few weeks ago.  I felt that I could offer nothing new or original for this project, which may or may not be a shame.  However, when I saw my dad leaving the house this winter wearing his Bean Boots with his business attire, I knew I had something, but alas, I had no camera on me.  My opportunity came later when I was lifeguarding at my local YMCA, mulling over this missed opportunity.  My eureka moment came much like Newton’s apple, although in a much less romantic form.  Some kid, old enough to know that when he’s sick he should run for the toilet, vomited on the pool deck.  I instinctively reached for my Bean Boots while my fellow worker shied back from the scene in his flip-flops.  Knowing that I had a thick layer of rubber between my feet and the throw-up, I mopped up the hazardous material without cringing as it neared my feet, although I provided my fellow worker with all the juicy details (EW LOOK I CAN SEE CHICKEN AND CHEERIOS!).  After returning home, I nabbed this shot of me in my lifeguard trunks wearing my Bean Boots.

Bean Boots are, and should be, romanticized.  They have been used for many years because they can keep feet warm and dry during the North American winters.  It should also be remembered that they can protect your feet while you take on the more unpleasant of jobs (look out Mike Rowe, here I come)."

-L.A.S

[Note: Head here for the project's backstory. Also, If you are reading this and I requested a submission from you or if you would just like to particiate please feel free to submit (contact via email). Your participation, as always, is still much anticipated and appreciated.]

The Bean Boot Project: Junctioned Guest Post

Mr. Damien Davis, the blogger behind Junctioned, is a someone I am very pleased to add to The Bean Boot Project.  Damien has been a long time reader and is always part of any discussion going on around these parts.  He is constantly leaving engaging and though provoking comments and his blog is very much in line with the comments he leaves.  Junctioned is a picture heavy resource that inspires strong sentiments hence its spot in my daily rotation.  For his guest post Damien gets to the core of the L.L. Bean boot by turning the lens on himself.  He speaks on his past, future and the potential for the boots to play a role in his life as a young father.

"Inspired by the New Year, the birth of my daughter last year and The Bean Boot Project I've recently been thinking about my own upbringing. I did have a pretty decent childhood, but because of circumstances beyond my control missed out on certain, let's say, sartorial experiences, lessons and traditions that I'd wish I'd had. As I grew up I pretty much had to figure out my own style and tastes on my own without much guidance. I knew that once I had my own family I would hope to raise them to develop their own sense of style but also learn to appreciate the quality of well made things and the tradition of craftsmanship behind some of my favorite brands and products that I grew up with or had the pleasure to own.

On a visit to one of my favorite local vintage boutiques I noticed these little darlings and instantly fell in love. Not just because of the cuteness of these little bootie's, but because of why I love certain brands and goods. They are the brands that you start with, grow up in, grow old in and maybe even pass on to those that come after you.

I hope I'll get to have these types of experiences with my own."

 

 

 

-L.A.S

[Note: Head here for the project's backstory. Also, If you are reading this and I requested a submission from you or if you would just like to particiate please feel free to submit (contact via email). Your participation, as always, is still much anticipated and appreciated.]

The Bean Boot Project: Red Clay Soul Guest Post

A while ago I mentioned on Twitter how "my southern friends dressed way better than my northern friends."  This was by no means meant to be an insult, but it did cause a little bit of a backlash.  Regardless, I stand by that statement and if you look at my blogroll you'll see quite a few "southern blogs".  Red Clay Soul, written by JRS, is one such blog.  At any given time Red Clay Soul will be rocking college football and Duck Head khakis; Land Rovers and monograms; blue blazers and yellow labradors. You get the picture.  And that's the beauty of what JRS has to offer.  The guy's got serious style, but it's such second nature that there is no reason to write a WHOLE blog about it (no self deprecating intended).  For a taste of the goodness that is Red Clay Soul, and a good introduction, be sure to check out his on point holiday gift guides.

For his guest post JRS keeps things direct and provides us with a nice little greatest "hits" collection of his busy L.L. Bean boots:

"...continuing to accumulate years of use in both an urban and country setting...
-Morning slippers (to get the paper & taking out the trash)
-Tailgating & ensuing debauchery
-Early Spring/Late Fall fishing
-Atlanta 'blizzards'
-Lifetime guarantee"

-L.A.S

[Note: Head here for the project's backstory. Also, If you are reading this and I requested a submission from you or if you would just like to particiate please feel free to submit (contact via email). Your participation, as always, is still much anticipated and appreciated.]

The Bean Boot Project: Apothecary Fox Guest Post

It's taken a little while, but The Bean Boot Project finally has its first female entry.  Mr. James Fox, of 10engines fame, took it upon himself to nudge his sister, Sarah, to send something over.  Sarah calls herself a "late starter" when it comes to the boots, but is now a "committed lover"; sounds like something I can work with.  She runs her own blog over at Apothecary Fox, which serves to "share the most creative, beautiful and quirky, vintage and modern designs"; that too sounds like something I can work with.  I usually see Sarah over in the comments at 10e, but have recently taken some time to really sit down and digest her work.  To say that I am impressed would be an understatement.  As I mentioned yesterday, I'm always on the lookout for new perspectives and Apothecary Fox is just that.  For example, just yesterday she posted this...I have no idea what purpose it serves, but it's awesome.  That being said I am happy to share with you guys a female perspective on the boots we nerd out on pretty much daily.

(Kinda) Late To The Party And Loving It

"I didn’t own a pair of Bean Boots until circa 1992. When I moved to Scotland in 1980 my shoe of US heritage was the Penny Loafer, black and brown (new penny tucked into the front for each new pair). This was one of the items that marked me out as American at my British boarding school, where the uniform was a kilt during the winter and magenta and chocolate striped blazer and boater hat in the summer. They were a way of standing apart and reinforced my American-ness.

Later, I remember asking Pops (my Dad) for a pair of Bean Boots when I moved home to Vermont for a winter, after graduating high school. I saw them then as the defining item in my wardrobe that would identify me as American (well, a New Englander most certainly) whilst I had become more British over time. They were a quiet signal to others that I was one of them, that I belonged. That I understood the practical had to take priority when you live in the country, but that still leaves room for style when you go for the Bean Boot.  Classic, understated style of course!    

While planning to move back to Vermont in 2009, I got down to priorities. Before I had bought my ticket, organized the packers or even quit my job for that matter, I had to order my new boots to cope with the harsh winter I would soon call my everyday. “Ooh it’s warm today” (only -10!). I toyed with other choices, but was really just playing around. There was only ever one boot for me…the shearling lined 10” Bean Boot had my name on them. I prefer the dark chocolate brown leather to the tan, but it is a small detail. I figured I would need all the warmth I could get and this boot is perfect. I had them shipped to my brother’s place in Boston so I could pull them on straight off the plane.    8 weeks in to my move back, I have worn them every day and can’t wait for a reason to buy the gumshoe (when I don’t need to wade through feet of snow and just want weather proofing for my feet). And more than anything, they remind me that I truly am home."    

"My new boots….can’t wait to get that weathered and worn look to them." 

Picture courtesy of James Fox 

-L.A.S 

[Note: Head here for the project's backstory. Also, If you are reading this and I requested a submission from you or if you would just like to participate please feel free to submit (contact via email). Your participation, as always, is still much anticipated and appreciated.]

The Bean Boot Project: Dry Goods & Assorted Sundries Guest Post

Ian, one of our northern blogger brethren who runs Dry Goods & Assorted Sundries, flies a little under the radar, but that doesn't stop him from having one of the best blogs out there.  I love getting an outsider's view and Ian is one of a few of my Canadian go to's who I turn to for a different perspective on all this menswear stuff.  As a plus, outside of commenting on the requisite gear, he drops some serious musical knowledge that comes with the territory of being a DJ.  Did I mention he also knows he way around the lens too?  DG&AS is truly something special.

For his guest post, Ian provided a much needed perspective on what it's like to own and rock a pair of Bean Boots north of the border.

"Living up here in Canada, there’s never really been the same sense of legacy surrounding LL Bean as there is in the US. So from that perspective, all the recent attention being paid to Bean Boots had a different appeal for me. I had just been tipped off to something completely classic, but was yet to see another pair of them in Toronto this winter…so how could I not get a pair?

My made in the USA 10” Bean Boots with Thinsulate lining were a hundred bucks and they’re some of the most practical shoes I’ve ever owned. It’s really cold and wet out right now, but as I type this my feet are perfectly warm and dry. As a bonus, I stand out from most of my fellow Torontonians, who are either dragging their feet around in insanely heavy and too hot for the indoors Sorels (which are now being made in Vietnam, by the way) or trying to make do with an unlined pair of Red Wings (which I love, but aren’t so good for when it gets really cold out).

That’s an unbeatable bargain if you ask me."

-L.A.S

[Note: Head here for the project's backstory. Also, If you are reading this and I requested a submission from you or if you would just like to particiate please feel free to submit (contact via email). Your participation, as always, is still much anticipated and appreciated.]

The Bean Boot Project: A Teriffic Life Guest Post

Submissions are still trickling in and I can't think of a better time as temperatures approach frigid even in my neck of the woods (I wore this badboy all day).  Mr. Aaron Kirsch, fellow Debonair Magazine contributor and blogger, sent over his own personal history with the Bean Boot and pics of his brand new pair.  Aaron, besides having one of the best named blogs in the business, has been a reader and commenter at Sartorially Inclined for a very long time and runs a pretty swell blog in his own right.  I am happy to present his submission after what can be best described as me begging him to send his thoughts over for quite some time.

"I grew up in a rich suburb of Boston and attended private schools with dress codes my entire life. My father and mother are big fans of L.L. Bean, whenever I am at home I check out the latest catalog. As children, my siblings and I all had the initial monogrammed backpacks, chinos, jackets and last but not least the Bean Boots. All of this stuff was bought for its utility; these items worked. My parents also appreciated the iron-clad guarantee that Bean on its products. Not until college did I begin to care much about style, and low and behold L.L. Bean items still get heavy play in my wardrobe's rotation, for BOTH style and utility.

The Bean duck boots are arguably the best footwear for New England winters in our rural, suburban or even urban settings. Slush is where the boots shine. In Boston, the weather is pretty volatile, it could be snowing New Year's Eve and 55 degrees a couple days later and then back to the negatives. This volatilitycreatres snow, then slush, then ice and all three of those conditions are when I bring out my Bean boots, and they never let me down. My current pair has Goretex and Thinsulate to keep my feet dry and warm and the rubber tread keeps me on my feet rather than on my ass.

Not only does the Bean boot perform, but it is also pretty stylish, in its own rugged way. Not only those of us who romatincize the outdoorsy, backwoods, Maine look (Pop up Flea crowd HOLLA!) dig the boot, but those of us (and our parents) who simply want traditional men's and women's clothing that lasts regardless of what's on the cover of GQ and in the boutiques on Soho and Brooklyn. The colour of the leather and the contrasting rubber goes with everything, even a suit for those slushy commutes from Commuter Rail Station at South Station to one's place of employment."

-L.A.S

[Note: Head here for the project's backstory. Also, If you are reading this and I requested a submission from you or if you would just like to participate please feel free to submit (contact via email). Your participation, as always, is still much anticipated and appreciated.] 

The Bean Boot Project: Unabashedly Prep Guest Post

F.E. Castleberry's formula is such: be unabashedly commited to your aesthetic, take incredibly photographs, foster discussion and debate and have one of the best looking sites on the internet. Oh yeah, can't forget: have an awesome name.  Pretty simple right? 

Unabashedly Prep is a fun site to visit day in and day out and you don't need to be a disciple of prep to appreciate all the interesting things Fred does with his blog.  UP is one of, if not, the best damn looking sites out there and while I normally like my layouts lean and clean, there is something about UP's perfectly "in your face" look that I really love.  On top of all that, Mr. Castleberry is quickly becoming a street shot force to be reckoned with (be sure to check out Fred's professional site as well), right up there with the Mr. Mort's and Sartorialist's of the world.  Fred's shots showcase beautiful women and equally dandy gentlemen across the United States decked out in Polo, Rugby, saddle shoes and club ties.  Whether you're in the mood for some eye candy or to debate the form vs. function of Wellington's, Unabashedly Prep should be your next stop.

For his post, Fred sent over another of his great shots that really highlights product detail.  He truly has an eye and his picture of L.L. Bean boots on a perfect fall day is more than catalog worthy.

"The duck boot is in vogue again. How can you tell? A slew of outfits from Marc Jacobs to Sears are pushing the boot this season—tweaking their own offerings of the classic, some to catastrophic proportions. For the prep-set, it matters not. We lace up our Bean Boots every year in rain, sleet and snow, regardless of whether or not GQ has given the boots their seasonal blessing. And when the chain-link tread wears smooth, L.L. Bean simply resoles them (approximately $50 including s&h)—allowing for the leather uppers to continually age with you."

"L.L. Bean has kept the look of their Bean Boot virtually the same since 1912. That’s part of the charm. It’s the bedrock of this American classic. Although the 10” and 8” boot are shown here, I prefer the 8” boot due to its similar silhouette to a regular boot. (L.L. Bean, $84)."

-L.A.S

[Note: Head here for the project's backstory. Also, If you are reading this and I requested a submission from you or if you would just like to participate please feel free to submit (contact via email). Your participation, as always, is still much anticipated and appreciated.]  

The Bean Boot Project: Secret Forts Guest Post

Secret Forts is for everyone, yet every time I stop by it feels so personal, as if James was writing for me and me alone.  The joy we feel from reading James' work is just as universal as it is personal; this is the power of Secret Forts. 

James describes his blog as "a collection of good things. This is me. And this is my Secret Fort."  This mantra has helped James become one of the most respected and honest bloggers around who continually lets us in on his own unique combination of nostalgia and style.  SF is wonderful in its simplicity and honesty, offering "good things" ranging from musings on old school skating to Oliver Spencer lookbooks.  I know I speak for a lot of people when I say that Secret Forts single handedly influenced how and why I blog.  You'd be hard pressed to find a better blog and, from my interactions with James though few and far between, a better guy.

For his guest post James kicks some serious nostalgia in true Secret Forts fashion, offering us a little insight into his lifelong relationship with the L.L. Bean boot.  Sprinkled with old school Bean catalogs and school expuslion this is one of the best posts yet...

"I grew up wearing these boots. Not this particular pair in the photo, but you get what I mean.I remember as a kid, before the school year was to begin, the school shopping.  Along with being dragged to department stores by my mother, there was always the good ole LL Bean catalog. And this is when, and maybe few actually remember this concept at this point, but this is when you actually had to pick up the telephone, dial up Freeport, Maine and place your order with an actual person. Now, if you have a pair of Quoddys or Russells or whatever, you may have actually done this recently, but that is the exception not the rule now. I would stand next to my mother while she ordered and make sure she got the style, size and color all correct. And then, I would wait.

I attended a school (until fifth grade when I was politely asked not to return...whole other story) with a dress code. Not a uniform per se, but rather a recommended code of dress.  Until my liberation at age ten, I attended classes daily wearing Duck Head khakis, oxford cloth button downs and LL Bean bluchers or canoe mocs. But of course, on rainy or otherwise inclement days, I wore my trusty Bean Boots. (I've scoured the photos from my childhood that I have, but to no avail. Perhaps on a future visit down home, I will dig some out as proof, but for now, you'll have to take my word for it.)  I thought my feet indestructible in them. Sloshing through puddles, kicking at snow, trudging along muddy paths.

We are all, and I am speaking of a relatively small demographic, on a severe nostalgic trip. It's just the pervasive zeitgeist. And it will change. But somethings do not. I won't spell it out tangentially here, as it's a whole separate piece, but maybe what it is, or maybe what it is to me, is maybe something akin to that smell of leather. When UPS would arrive weeks later with the unmistakable white box with that very specific green lettering, I would very ceremoniously open the box and there would be that wonderful smell of oiled leather, hand stitched to rubber bottoms and from this far away place called Maine. It all comes back simply to the smell of that leather."

-L.A.S

[Note: Head here for the project's backstory. Also, If you are reading this and I requested a submission from you or if you would just like to participate please feel free to submit (contact via email). Your participation, as always, is still much anticipated and appreciated.]

The Bean Boot Project: Christian Chensvold of Ivy Style Guest Post

A lot of menswear sites, including my own, are all over the place.  Prep one day, workwear the next and maybe some European fashion house nonsense thrown in just for good measure.  While it's good to keep yourself open to options and pander to different tastes, there is something to say about someone who sticks to their guns.  Christian Chensvold is a guy who sticks to his guns.  Christian and his site, Ivy Style, know what they like and what they are good at.  Most importantly, Christian and his site do not compromise.  It's all in the name...Ivy Style.  Above all else, it's an appreciation of a specific attitude, lifestyle and, of course, style.  If you're a natural shoulder suit with 3/2 roll kinda guy then you may have found your new home away from home.  Ivy Style is not only the product of a concise aesthetic and vision, but the source of some of the best style writing you are ever going to come across.  Their recent article on "Japan's First Ivy Rebels" is just one example of how they are able to blend the historical and stylish into something truly special.

For his guest post Christian sent over a tale that can be best described as a transcontinetal romance; one that begins in breezy, shiny California and ends in the chilly, wet streets of New York City.

"I remember Bean Boots (at least the low-top version) from high school circa 1987. The fact that my high school was located in sunny California did nothing to curtail the popularity of certain preppy items during the '80s, and I seem to remember LL Bean's Gumshoe worn with shorts by the student government types during the month of May.

By the time I graduated high school I was already the clothes horse I am today, sometimes wearing ties to school just for the rebellious formality of it, but as a lower classman I'd looked at the duck-footed Bean shoes and found them laughably absurd. Of course, I was wearing pink Chuck Taylors at the time.

Fast forward 20-odd years, and now, freshly relocated on the rain and snow coast, I'm now the proud owner of a pair of Gumshoes. While the blue version is classic, I found the brown version a bit more understated and opted for it.

It'll be tempting to wear the shoes for my next class reunion. By then they should be well worn and weathered from a New York winter, and I'll be able to gloat that while it may have taken me 20 years to get hip to Gumshoes, at least I got them for their intended purpose."

-L.A.S

[Note: Head here for the project's backstory. Also, If you are reading this and I requested a submission from you or if you would just like to participate please feel free to submit (contact via email). Your participation, as always, is still much anticipated and appreciated.]

The Bean Boot Project: Ryan Willms of Inventory Magazine Guest Post

As publications around the world continue to literally stop the presses and move solely online, Inventory Magazine (formerly h(y)r Collective Magazine) has blazed forward creating one of the most fascinating brands in menswear.  Ryan Willms, Inventory's Creative Director, is a true visionary who is helping lead a revolution in menswear.  Both the publication and their store, the Inventory Stockroom, are constantly breaking new ground and proving that a little hard work and passion goes a long way.  No matter who you talk to, you're likely to hear only wonderful things about Ryan and his brand.  As far as I am concerned, a gold standard has been set.  I can't think of many brands so involved with the menswear community and who absolutely understand their customers/readers.  I'm always preaching about people who are doing things right; it just so happens Ryan and Inventory are leaders in this category.

Hailing from Vancouver Ryan understands how to dress for inclement weather.  His Bean boots are a "fall essential" and are featured in Inventory's first issue.  Ryan sent over an edit from one of the issue's photo shoots and a great picture of his own boots.

[Excerpt from Inventory Updates 10/31/09]

"No surprises here, I’ll probably mention these boots come each rainy season. The Bean boots have a rich and interesting history I’m not going to get into today. Besides the fact they just plain look great, they are probably one of the best all around shoes you could have on hand. They’re affordable, you don’t worry about them getting wet, they keep you warm and they look just as good on you as your dad, grandpa or son. My 8″ Bean boots have made their fall debut this week and have been immediately put into heavy use as the drop in temperature and rainfall was an unfortunate turn. The high boot is great for the depths of winter with a GoreTex lining, but I’ve been interested in picking up a pair of the low cut mocs to match. They are slightly more ideal for spring, but when the rain is light and the mercury rises a little, they are a great weekend option for cruising the town or a vineyard."

-L.A.S

[Note: Head here for the project's backstory. Also, If you are reading this and I requested a submission from you or if you would just like to participate please feel free to submit (contact via email). Your participation, as always, is still much anticipated and appreciated.] 

The Bean Boot Project: Wingtip Guest Post

Reader Daniel Small, who runs the newly formed blog Wingtip, was kind enough to send in a guest post that does a wonderful job expanding on the multi-generational appeal and lifelong quality of the L.L. Bean boot.

"My dad has been wearing Bean boots for at least as long as I've been alive.  The same pair.  Worn-in, broken-down, mud-encrusted.  The leather has wrinkled and aged.  The heel logo has long since worn off.  Even the laces have split dramatically.

If I had to guess, I'd say I've given them more thought than he has.  To him, they are just boots.  He puts them on when it's wet.  He put's them on when it's cold, when it's muddy, or when it snows (conditions which, for anyone not familiar with Buffalo NY, reflect about 8 months of the year!)  But they are his boots.  The wear and tear reflect his labors.  They're the first and only shoes he puts on before he steps outdoors.

My mom, a loyal patron of the L.L. Bean catalog, bought him a fresh pair of identical boots a few years ago.  This pair rests untouched and pristine in the back of the closet.

Naturally, I've grown to admire the Bean boot.  It has been, after all, a consistent component of the man I look up to the most.  And while I may not be following my father's academic and professional footsteps, you can bet I'll be wearing the same shoes."

"My dad's pair."

"Broken-in and battered."

"Like father, like son."

[Note: Head here for the project's backstory. Also, If you are reading this and I requested a submission from you or if you would just like to participate please feel free to submit (contact via email). Your participation, as always, is still much anticipated and appreciated.] 

-L.A.S

The Bean Boot Project: Mister Mort Guest Post

If I told you Mister Mort was the man, would you disagree with me?  He is the photographer and curator of what is, in my opinion, the best "street shots" website out there, apologies to a certain fellow and GQ contributor who comes in at a distant second.  Not limiting his subjects to "the beautiful people", Mister Mort is constantly combing the streets of NYC (and elsewhere) for some of the best and most uniquely dressed cats out there.  The guy has a serious eye for details and his shots represent an unmatched, distinct sartorial point of view.  Outside of his photography, Mordechai seems to be getting into the design game, as the recent Pop-Up Flea saw the debut of a bunch of his products.  From the pics I've seen (and I'm sure you have too) good things are surely on the horizon.  Go-to-hell pants are child's play compared to Mister Mort's ridiculously awesome "F You" tie.  Also, if you needed any more reasons to join twitter, Mister Mort has one of the hands down funniest accounts.  Dude is a straight riot.  Anyhow, I think we could all learn a thing or two from Mordechai.  Often the most stylish look of all is just being yourself and not being afraid to say "F you" to anyone who tries to tell you otherwise.

For his guest post, Mister Mort does what he does best: quirky, unique photos.  I hope you guys enjoy.

"A loafer, a shoe, a boot all in one. Really for all weather, but best when walking around the wet fields of flea markets! "

"Also, I have a shot of a pair of boots I didn't shoot, found it somewhere on the net [editors note: originally seen on 13th and Wolf], but it's my dream pair should i be so lucky!!"

-L.A.S

[Note: Head here for the project's backstory. Also, If you are reading this and I requested a submission from you or if you would just like to participate please feel free to submit (contact via email). Your participation, as always, is still much anticipated and appreciated.]

The Bean Boot Project: Young Man/Old Man Guest Post

Conor has gotten face time over here before and for good reason.  His blog, Young Man/Old Man, has the great theme of chronicling the various aspects of his life that fall into the two aforementioned categories.  Outside of this really unique concept, the guy has got one of the better wardrobes in the blogosphere and is always putting together some pretty killer kits.  Not only are you going to get some thrifted "trad" gems, but a nice shot of RRL and other tip-top pieces.  If you ever wanted to know how to properly throw on a bandanna or rock a collar pin through the middle of your tie look no further.  More importantly, Conor is a great guy who I can always count on dropping some insightful and honest knowledge in the comments.  With what time he finds in his hectic schedule (he's currently finishing up school at Clemson) he's putting in serious work over at YM/OM and everywhere else.  If nothing else, you need to head over to check out dude's 'stache...classic badass-ery at its best.

For his guest post Conor talks a little about his initial hesitant to the Bean boot (blindly drinking the Kool-Aid is never a good look) and his subsequent warming up to them.  Not to mention he shouts out the oft-overlooked Bison Bean boot, which easily deserves its own tribute.

"When I first came to Clemson, South Carolina from South Florida, one of the most ubiquitous items I saw was the Bean boot. I had never seen them before, and to be honest, for the first two years I was here I thought they were terribly ugly. I'm still not fully on board with the tan/dark brown versions, but for a long time I've been wanting a pair of tall, dark brown boots (such as the Bison leather or the 10"
shearling lined versions). As it will probably never be cold enough to wear the shearling version, the Bison leather will have to be it (although I am very excited to see what Bean will be doing with the
canvas version for the L.L. Bean Signature collection). "

-L.A.S

[Note: Head here for the project's backstory. Also, If you are reading this and I requested a submission from you or if you would just like to participate please feel free to submit (contact via email). Your participation, as always, is still much anticipated and appreciated.] 

The Bean Boot Project: Joe Gannon Guest Post

Take one look at the post tags over at Joe's blog and you'll be quick to realize it isn't your average, run of the mill men's style blog.  "Childhood Dreams", "Old Movies" and "Brotally" are just a few reasons you should be reading it already.  I find myself drawn to people with unique perspectives and interesting things to say and Mr. Gannon is one of those people.  From a recent entry on his father-in-law's keys, to anecdotes about buying clothes for his son, Joe is chronicling the kinds of experiences and stories I couldn't dream of doing here at Sartorially Inclined.  On top of all this, he's just a straight-up great guy who is always willing to chat.  Read his blog and follow him on Twitter...I promise you will not be disappointed.

For Joe's guest post he sent over a great head-to-toe look that is anchored by, of course, a pair of vintage L.L. Bean boots.  He shares with us a little of his own aesthetic and sends some styling advice our way.  As far as I'm concerned, it's all simple, rugged perfection.

1.) Chesapeake Bay Retriever
2.) Billy Reid Conservation Hat
3.) 1982 Mercedes 300TD Wagon
4.) Vintage Bean Boots
5.) F.M. Allen Navy Sporting Dogs Bow Tie
6.) Polo Ralph Lauren Fine Slim Custom-Fit Stripes Oxford
7.) Barbour Tweed Windowpane Jacket
8.) Beretta Silver Pigeon
9.) Orvis All-Leather Field Pant
10.) Filson Original Hunting Vest

"I don’t profess to be a died-in the-wool hunter, though I do hunt semi-regularly.  Consequently, I don’t count myself in the category of style blogger-plenty of people who actually know what they’re talking about are doing good things in that genre.  I exist (and focus my blog) somewhere in between.  I have things that I like (some more than others) and I tend to gravitate, taste-wise, towards things that have a tie to the sporting life.  Whether it’s a pair of buckskin gloves or a bow tie with hunting dogs, I like to have at least one component of my ensemble reveal the faintest hint of my affinity for the outdoors.

Taking a card from Giovanni Agnelli’s deck, I tend to enjoy the juxtaposition of things formal and sporting.  Even before I knew that he pioneered this look, the pairing of opposites was my “go to” when an event’s guidelines of formality were not clearly defined.  The iconic Bean Boots are a great way to bring even the most formal attire down a notch.  Paired with a suit and a rakish attitude, Bean Boots can speak volumes of your personality.  As Agnelli remarked of his propensity for combining the seemingly incongruent, "…people will look twice, but that’s the point of fashion."  I tried to capture this feeling in my Bean Boot/Agnelli inspired head to toe.  It exists as, I feel, country and city.  Here and there.  Equally at home for cocktails and quail hunts."

-L.A.S

[Note: Head here for the project's backstory. Also, If you are reading this and I requested a submission from you or if you would just like to participate please feel free to submit (contact via email). Your participation, as always, is still much anticipated and appreciated.]

The Bean Boot Project: 10engines Guest Post

Mr. James Fox needs no introduction.  In fact, odds are that his blog, 10engines, was one of a handfull of blogs that inspired you to start your own.  James' great eye, unique style of writing and varied background serve as the building blocks for a great blog.  When I see a new 10engines post on my blogroll I literally have no idea what I'm getting myself into and that may be the highest compliment I can pay any blogger.  Tweed, clothes for your whippersnappers and obscure lectures all show up over at 10engines and I wouldn't want it any other way.  James keeps it honest, nonjudgmental and in perspective.  As he once so expertly put it, "No pissing contests."

For his guest post, James gets nostalgic and puts himself out there.  He offers a little personal history about his childhood and brings it all full circle with Bean boots.  Meaningful and clever stuff for sure.

"I wore Bean boots all the time until we moved to Scotland (1980) and got teased to high hell. Hey, they are pretty odd looking. Damn older high school kids pickin' on the new guy.  Slightly scarred for life on that one...I was a little big for my age though, so when it came to rugby I f-kin romped...  (though I did spike the ball in the end zone for my first "try"... which then didn't count, you have to touch the ball to the ground in control... could not catch a break.)

Long/short I chucked the bean boots and cords and wore Kickers and jeans. hahaha. Topsiders though... would never give those up. there is a Bass outlet near Pops (Manchester, VT) so an unlimited supply of $40 Topsiders. Those knee high L.L. Bean boots (editor's note: see below) are my stepmother's, tough to find them now. She has all the classic gear; old Frye boots, CB Sports jackets, ancient Patagonias etc... classic."

-L.A.S

[Note: Head here for the project's backstory. Also, If you are reading this and I requested a submission from you or if you would just like to participate please feel free to submit (contact via email). Your participation, as always, is still much anticipated and appreciated.]

The Bean Boot Project: Components Of Enthusiasm Guest Post

Paul and myself are both devoted members of the church of rap, boat shoes and Natalie Portman.  In the short time I've known him we've bonded over, well, rap, boat shoes and Natalie Portman...besides other things of course.  Long story short, Paul is a great guy who runs a great blog.  I've been reading Components of Enthusiasm for a long time since it's one of the few good style and music sites out there.  His posts, from the most recent on some of the coolest photography I've ever seen (The Europeans by Yamandu Roos) to an older post (and easily one of my favorites ever) dealing with the age old debate of Sperry vs. Sebago, are great, insightful reads. Meeting kindred spirits is always the most enjoyable thing about all this blogging and I've got nothing besides great things to say about Mr. Munford.  Read COE and talk with Paul, odds are you'll become quick friends.  Assuming you like rap, boat shoes and Natalie Portman that is.

P.S. If you're cool you've already checked out my side project with Paul, "Once Upon A Time in Hip Hop", which may be arguably the most gangster website of all time.

Those Bean Boots

"When I think about it, it’s truly unacceptable.  I’ve lived in the South my whole life, born and raised near Richmond, Virginia.  I don’t come from a family who necessarily cares about heritage brands, but as a guy who personally acknowledges and appreciates the history and authenticity of these types of brands, I’ve found myself recently wondering why it is that I still find myself without Bean Boots at the ripe old age of twenty three.

Bean Boots are big in the South, so I’ve seen them plenty of times.  But the first time I truly appreciated their stylishness was my freshman year of college at UVA.  I spotted a fratdog stumbling out of dorms with the low top boots on a fall Saturday afternoon, and thought to myself, “Those are some sick kicks.”  Nearly six years later, I’m laughing as I type this because nothing has changed.  I still find myself holding the exact same opinion, and yet I’m still in the exact same position, no Bean Boots to my name!  Chalk it up to laziness, forgetfulness, whatever; probably a combination of both and more.

In any case (and despite my lack of ownership of said boots), my fondness towards them stems from the generations-old heritage and the simplicity of the design. I appreciate the color scheme—it’s perfect for fall, winter, and spring—and I certainly appreciate the LL Bean re-soling service, ensuring that the same pair of boots truly do become an heirloom that sticks in the family.  They go well with jeans and khakis, doing just enough to add that touch of laid back ruggedness to your look. Stylishness aside, they are fully capable and probably better suited in protecting your delicate toes from the harshness of winter snowstorms and the cold rain that arrives in spring and autumn.  Classic styling, practicality, and high quality construction that you can pass down to your children, the Bean boot just might be the only boot that I’ll ever need, but still don’t have.  That being said…it’s about time I purchased my own."

-L.A.S

[Note: Head here for the project's backstory. Also, If you are reading this and I requested a submission from you or if you would just like to participate please feel free to submit (contact via email). Your participation, as always, is still much anticipated and appreciated.]

The Bean Boot Project: One Man's Style Guest Post

One Man's Style may be the best curated blog on the internet.  No joke.  Andy's photo essays are the definition of efficent and his format of one men's style pic, one chick and two randoms per post is actually kind of genius when you think about it.  His own posts and guest posts (one of which I was honored to submit) are constant visual inspiration and actually helped push me towards creating my own "inspiration board".  I've had the pleasure to get to know Andy a little through email and I look forward to collaborating more with him in the future (be on the lookout for quite a large undertaking myself, Andy and a bunch of other bloggers have coming up).  One Man's Style is just that...one guy and his style.  Thank god for us Andy's got style to spare.

Andy's take on the Bean boot was very analytical.  Here he shares with us his own sense of how to style the boot in ways that are both a nod to the past and a nod to the present, not to mention provides us with some picture representations as well.

"From one of the most iconic brands comes a boot that has been time tested and worn though out the ages. The Bean boot has been reinterpreted many times by those trying to shed a new light on the shoe, but this seems to prove difficult as the original always shines through. Wear them with your flannels and jeans for that Sunday hike or wear them on that rainy Tuesday with the gray tweed suit your going to be rocking to work over the next couple months. The boot's classic aesthetic worn with your modern touch is undeniable. Pick up a pair and wear then until they burst at the seams, because as we have seen from Max (All Plaid Out) and Foster (A Restless Transplant), you can then send them back to Bean and they will come back to you fresh as the day you took them from the box."

-L.A.S

[Note: Head here for the project's backstory. Also, If you are reading this and I requested a submission from you or if you would just like to participate please feel free to submit (contact via email). Your participation, as always, is still much anticipated and appreciated.]

The Bean Boot Project: A Curious Monogram Guest Post

Don is one of a select group of bloggers who me inspired to start Sartorially Inclined.  His little corner of the internet, A Curious Monogram, is a wonderful place to discover new music, inspiring photography and of course, some cool digs.  One of the most interesting things about Don, and why I appreciate his blog so much, is that he is actually putting himself out there and doing something tangible.  I don't have too many details for you, but I do know Don's shirting endeavor is off the ground and underway.  This is the kind of stuff I feed off of...the kind of stuff that really gets my blood flowing.  People, like Don, deciding to take their passions to the next level is something I will always look up to and hope to do one day myself when the time is right.  Until that day, I give my full support to folks like Don who continue to raise the bar, for all of us, everyday.  Stay tuned because I, and I'm sure Don, would hate to say, "I told ya so".

Don's guest post focuses on a particular image he stumbled across and what it means to him.  I'll present the image first and let Don explain it's inspiration.

[Picture courtesy of Grass Doe.]

"I'm not a photographer, or even a decent amateur snap and shot.  I wish I was.  So when I was I thinking about the project and how I could contribute, I did what I usually do; just keep it in the back of my mind when I'm partaking in one of my favorite pastimes - searching for the end of the Internet.  Luckily enough, the picture I found from Grass Doe was perfect and really struck me.  See, as a city-dweller / suburbanite all of my life, there has always been a certain romantic quality to being out in the wilderness and the clothing that was traditionally designed for it.  For whatever (weak) reasons, it has always felt a little contrived when I try and force some of those items into my wardrobe where the functional purposes of the clothing aren't being utilized the way they were envisioned.  However, there are certain items that crossover with their form and function fitting perfectly in both worlds.  The Bean Boot is one of these items, especially when the weather in Chicago acts up.  This picture though, perfectly portrayed the romanticism I mentioned earlier.  The Boot, as it was meant to be - out in the wilderness, amongst moss covered rocks, on a damp Fall day."

-L.A.S

[Note: Head here for the project's backstory. Also, If you are reading this and I requested a submission from you or if you would just like to participate please feel free to submit (contact via email). Your participation, as always, is still much anticipated and appreciated.] 

The Bean Boot Project: Southern Gent Guest Post

Daryl already has the Sartorially Inclined cosign, but when you have a blog as enjoyable as his you're bound to find yourself caught in a rainstorm of praise every so often.  As a citizen of the south, blogs like Daryl's really hit home.  Much like Skip's blog, mentioned the other day, Southern Gent is not so much about clothes or style, as it is about a way of life...a way of life that includes happy hours, tailgating, hunting and lots and lots of madras.  If there was ever a lifestyle to aspire to I'd like to think it lives somewhere over at SG.

Much like any southern gent, The L.L. Bean boot means a lot to Daryl.  His memories connected to the shoe are what drives his appreciation for it and that is the focus of his guest post.  Daryl taps into the nostalgia of a time spent with good friends, when the booze was flowing and the field was muddy.  The image he sent over was particularly striking and I'm sure you all will get as much of a kick out of it as I did.  Thanks to Daryl, both a favorite blogger of mine and a good friend, for sending over this piece.

Mocs In The Mud

"After years having duck boots of all brands except by the venerable Maine outfitter, I finally decided to start my collection of the real deal with the Bean Moc. Living in the South we don't get that much snow, yet tons of rain year round and figured I would wear them with shorts during summer thunderstoms, tromping around the country in the fall, through inch high snow in the winter and muddy puddles during spring showers.

Shortly after the Mocs arrived from Bean in the spring of 2005, horrible rain showers fell on Charlottesville, VA making Foxfields Races a muddy mess. Together with my friend Pamela, this picture was snapped to capture the moment. I remember it as the first of many fond memories I've shared not only with good friends, but my L.L.Bean Bean Boot Mocs."

-L.A.S

[Note: Head here for the project's backstory. Also, If you are reading this and I requested a submission from you or if you would just like to participate please feel free to submit (contact via email). Your participation, as always, is still much anticipated and appreciated.]

The Bean Boot Project: Alex Grant Guest Post

Skip runs one of the best preppy "lifestyle" blogs on the internet.  I use the word "lifestyle" because Skip doesn't just talk about clothes all day, like myself, but instead lets us in into his life as a father and a husband.  Skip is an unapologetic L.L. Bean fantatic, to say the least, and was nice enough to shoot me over a picture that speaks volumes about him personally.  His love for the classic American brand and his life as a young father blend together in a picture he simply titled "Generational".  It is was truly a pleasure to view this picture of Skip's son trying on his father's L.L Bean Boot rubber mocs and I'm happy to share it with you guys.  Thanks are very much in order to Skip, who continues to be one of my biggest supporters.

"Generational"

-L.A.S

[Note: Head here for the project's backstory. Also, If you are reading this and I requested a submission from you or if you would just like to participate please feel free to submit (contact via email). Your participation, as always, is still much anticipated and appreciated.]