2024.09.10
L.L.Bean's "Field Coat," Celebrating 100 Years, Is a Cultural Heritage of American Fashion
When you think of the leading outdoor brand "L.L.Bean," iconic items like the "Boat and Tote" and "Bean Boots" come to mind. However, with over a century of history, L.L.Bean’s outerwear also boasts timeless classics.
One such classic is the "Field Coat." With features like water-repellent cotton canvas and shoulder gun patches, its design embodies the concept of "wearable outdoor gear."
What is it about this outerwear, born over 100 years ago, that continues to captivate today’s fashion enthusiasts? Together with PR representative Hironori Nakamura, let's explore the enduring charm of this coat.
PROFILE
Hironori Nakamura
L.L.Bean International L.L.Bean PR
Founded in Maine, a Hub of Outdoor Activity
The history of L.L.Bean began in 1912 in Maine, where forests cover about 90% of the state.
"The founder was Leon Leonwood Bean (hereafter referred to as Bean), and the brand name derives from his name. As an outdoor enthusiast, he improved the slippery outdoor boots of the time and developed the Maine Hunting Shoe.
"This shoe became beloved by notable figures such as Hemingway and Babe Ruth and later became known as Bean Boots. In 1944, he also developed a canvas bag called the Beans Ice Carrier.
"Originally designed for transporting ice cut from lakes, it evolved into the Beans Boat and Tote Bag in the 1960s, gaining popularity among Ivy Leaguers and becoming a staple of Ivy style."
Now widely recognized as fashion items, the boots and bags were originally practical outdoor gear. The Field Coat, introduced in 1924, is no exception.
"The 1920s, dubbed the Roaring Twenties, marked a flourishing of vibrant art and culture, as America experienced economic prosperity. Maine, rich in natural beauty, had many vacation homes for the affluent, and hunting was a popular sport."
![[Left] "Maine Duck Hunting Coat" featured in the 1924 catalog / [Right] Renamed to "Field Coat" in the 1947 catalog](https://images.microcms-assets.io/assets/1775a3633c8b428d9f011c6a758a8a5c/53dd2639fbb542078589e5d75665d633/llbean-1.jpg?w=420&fm=webp&dpr=2)
Highly Valued Functional Outerwear by Hunters
In 1924, the "Maine Duck Hunting Coat," a precursor to today’s Field Coat, debuted. It was developed by Bean himself to enhance outdoor enjoyment. Immediately upon release, it gained a strong reputation among hunters."With features like loops for shotgun shells inside the front pockets, and a rubber game pocket on the inner waist for storing game, its high practicality was appreciated by hunters.
"In 1947, its name was officially changed to the current Field Coat. Although the hunting reference was dropped, most users at that time were still hunters."
Since then, the basic design has hardly changed. Let’s take a closer look at the current model.
"Although there have been some minor changes over time, the body fabric is 100% cotton duck. This is a high-density plain weave fabric, made from thick cotton yarn, known for its solid structure and durability. The surface is treated to be water-repellent, keeping you dry in light rain. The collar and cuffs feature 16-wale cotton corduroy.
"The winter cold in Maine, the coat's homeland, is harsh. Therefore, the body lining utilizes brushed cotton flannel for added warmth. However, to ensure comfort, the sleeve lining is made of nylon material."
Originally designed as a hunting coat, it incorporates practical details throughout.
"The most distinctive feature is the gun patches sewn onto both shoulders. These are protective patches used to safeguard the fabric when supporting a firearm on the shoulder. Even in non-hunting situations, they serve to prevent wear from backpack or shoulder bag straps."
When hunting, it's essential to carry many tools such as maps, bullets, and knives. Thus, the coat features large pockets on the sides that double as hand warmers, and a zip pocket on the left chest.
Innovative designs have also been implemented in the shoulders and arms to ensure freedom of movement. The shoulders are designed with a vice swing shoulder specification that enhances the range of motion of the arms. Additionally, the armholes are larger, making it easier to move the arms and reducing the feeling of constriction even when layering.
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