L.L. Bean: Better Than Ever

I've always been a fan of L.L. Bean, though mostly for the classic boat totes and rugged nylon duffels (and these shearling slippers, which I've been wearing nightly and are probably the one thing I'm going to miss about winter). Recently I noticed that the clothing seems to evolving in a more fashiony direction, with things like this slim cropped peacoat cut from water-repelling cotton canvas ($139). I love it in navy, which comes lined in periwinkle blue. I'm also into this hooded tunic

($59.95) with a graphic, leafy print in lightweight nylon that dries super-fast, making it the perfect post-swim cover-up. The fabric has UV-absorbing properties too, so wearing it is the equivalent of being slathered in SPF50—so brilliant. And as an alternative to my favorite metallic Newport News sandals that were recently discontinued, there are these dainty gold T-straps ($44.95), which will probably be more comfortable and last me longer anyway, since they're actually made of leather with cushioned soles and rubber bottoms.