If I was ordering from this catalog, I would be after the Insulated Lounger Boots, Baxter State Parka (Navy), Scotch Plaid Shirts, Corduroy Chinos, Norwegian Sweater (Burgundy/White), Herringbone Twill Pants, Insulated Overpants, Wilderness Jacket (red, green plaid), Shetland sweaters (regular and cabled), that Country shawl collared cardigan, Tattersall button-downs, Blucher mocs, Sport Chukkas, Insulated Maine Hunting Shoes, Glacier Glasses, Zipper Duffel Bags, Tartan trousers, a Hand Knit Icelandic cardigan, Rangeley Tartan Flannel shirts, & that 1982 catalog Gunsling Belt. And that's just for starters, I suppose.
The interesting thing is that as I've gotten older I have found myself looking at items that weren't as appealing to me years ago. Funny that. It would be nice if the L.L Bean of old were still around to cater to those of us who, as we get older, still find this style appealing. There was a genuineness about this style of clothing, much of which was available only at L.L. Bean. In today's marketplace, so much looks the same from one retailer to another, and the truly unique has become harder and harder to find. Of course, we had a number of L.L. Bean items arrive in the mail this year, and we also visited several retail locations during the past year. However, it's just not the same as a generation ago. I know that it just isn't all L.L. Bean's fault. I have certainly grown and changed in many ways due to many experiences and challenges that life has afforded me in the intervening years. We can't help but change and grow. It is a fascinating aspect of human life. Part of what makes returning to these older catalogs interesting is remembering life - oneself and others years ago - and thereby gaining a glimpse at how much oneself and the world have changed. Anyway, enough rambling.
On the Fourth Day of Christmas - L.L. Bean Christmas 1983.
