LL Bean Shearling Lined Snow Boots

I first came across the famous LL Bean "Bean boot" when I saw on the local news that they had a backlog of boot orders. I'm going to guess their boots were highly sought after because of last year's crazy snow accumulation in New England. Their boots were in such high demand that it would be summer when they would become caught up on their orders. 

So I placed an order for a pair of the Bean 8" boots with shearling lining back last February, but didn't get the boots until July.  For the last couple of weeks, I've been able to wear them everyday and wanted to give my review on them.  Reviews say they run large so I opted for a size 6 women instead of my usual 6.5. Good thing I did because even the 6 has a little wiggle room which is good because I need the extra space to avoid nasty blisters on the heel and toe area. I left the top two holes unlaced so I can slip them on easily for convenience.  I also like that they don't look to bulky and overwhelming on small framed women. 

Interior of boots

Back of boots, rubber bottoms and tumbled leather upper

Not surprisingly, they are heavy on the foot which I got use to after a few wears.  Maybe a little heavier than the Hunter rain boots.  They keep my feet warm (wearing regular athletic socks) at about 35 (°F) outside but anything colder like today which was 18 (°F) my feet were starting to feel cold.  Not numbing cold but definitely cold. 

 

Optional shearling inserts sold by LL Bean.

The shearling lining is only along the boot shaft so I guess it keeps your ankles warm. The rest of the shoe is lined with a waterproof barrier which has a slight cushion to the heel and toe area. Some people recommend using the shearling insoles but it didn't feel comfortable as it squishes your feet to the top of the boots. So, I took them out and put back the original insoles.

Not too clunky?

Final verdict: Worth purchasing for snowy winter weather. Also backed by LL Bean's lifetime guarantee and feels incredibly durable.  Love that they are made in Maine. Comfort level: From 1-10, I'd give it an 8.5. No blisters after wearing for an entire day which is a plus in my book.

A new blog approach: Comfortable fashion

Hello all! I've decided to approach blogging from yet another different angle. This time I'm going to center my posts on finding cute yet comfortable clothing and accessories.  I emphasize the topic of comfort in a big way because if its not comfortable, I will stop wearing it. So stay tuned for tried and tested recommendations on things that work for an everyday comfortable life!

CÉLINE Plaid Skates!

For those who are looking for these, the Celine plaid skates are available on YOOX for $439! They originally sold for $620.  Sizes 36.5 and 37 are available. These will probably go fast.  I would say these are true to size or buy half size up if you prefer a little more wiggle room in the toe area.

They are a bit stiff out of box but will hopefully break in over time.  It was a little hard for me to slip on so I'm debating whether or not I should keep these.  A little less comfy than the Vince Blair 5 slip on. 

On me, I'm wearing a super comfy dark plaid boyfriend shirt by J. Crew and my favorite leggings by James Perse. 

Chanel Old Medium Quilted Caviar Boy Bag 14B

Just wanted to share my newest love, the Chanel Boy Bag in the "Old Medium" size with Caviar leather and ruthenium hardware.  I ordered this from Hirshleifers and it came in much earlier than expected! It is the Old Medium size (10" x 6" x 3.5") but there is a New Medium which is slightly larger (7"x 11" x 3.5").  I was so happy that Fall Act 1 included caviar Boy bags!

In comparison to the Chanel Classic Quilted Flap in the M/L size, they are nearly identical in sizing.  The weight comes in at 1 lb 13.4 oz (833g) whereas the M/L flap is a little less at 1 lb 6.2 oz (633 g) and its not too bad in terms of heaviness - definitely doable.  The chain strap looks like it would add a lot of weight but surprisingly its not maybe because its partially leather. When doubled up, I am having a little difficulty keeping the leather strap on my shoulder. The boy's caviar leather has more texture and is slightly softer than my 9 series M/L flap. 

I would say the Boy bag holds a little more than the M/L even though the interior compartment is about half inch smaller than appears because of the Boy's framed edge.  The M/L has that double flap which takes up more interior room.  Another variation is that the Boy has fabric lined interior with one slip interior pocket with no zip.  

I really love this style right now, it's like a revamped Classic Flap with an edge to it.  I would say the Boy bag possesses more of a casual look especially with the "aged" ruthenium hardware.  I also like this strap better because the chain doesn't dig into your shoulder if you carry it cross body style.  The strap drop is perfect to carry messenger whereas the Classic Flap is better off worn on the shoulder even with my petite sizing.

A quick video on showing that the chains are on the loud side and the also functionality of the CC lock closure.  I do like how this closure functions in a smooth manner. Sorry for my crude editing. Unfortunately, this vid can prob only be viewed on a computer and not a mobile phone.

Here are the variations that Hirshleifers have on their order list for quilted Boy bags:
Chic and feminine animation in caviar for an elegant and daily look
A92193-Y08890 – new medium flap in caviar with aged ruth hw in black and in dark red $4600 7x11x3.5
A67086-Y08890 – medium flap in caviar with aged ruth hw in black and dark red $4200 6x10x3.5 A67085-Y08890 – small flap in caviar with aged ruth hw in black $4000 6x10x3.5
A67086-Y09130 – medium flap in caviar with antique gold hw in dk navy blue $4200 6x10x3.5 A67085-Y09130 – small flap in caviar with antique gold hw in black $4000 5x8x3
A67087-Y09130 – large flap in caviar with antique gold hw in black $5000 8.4x12x3
A92193-Y09130 – new medium flap in caviar with antique hw in black $4600 7x11x3.5