The L.L. Bean tote is having a fashion moment—see how this classic carryall became the new Boatkin Birkin bag and how to style it now.
It started with a photo. A candid of someone at Hotel du Cap, in a black maillot, sipping something citrusy, with the now-legendary Boatkin bag slung over her shoulder. Suddenly, the world remembered that summer bags didn’t have to be loud. They could be understated. Woven. Structured, but easy.
The Boatkin Bag
The Boatkin bag isn’t from a major fashion house or a storied European atelier. It’s the brainchild of Jen Risk, a Philadelphia-based creative and quiet luxury enthusiast, who also happens to be a descendant of the Vanderbilt family. What started as a passion project quickly became a sought-after icon. Jen posted the bag on her personal Instagram during a weekend in Antibes, and the ripple effect began.
There was no influencer push. No mass distribution. Just good design, intentional styling, and the appeal of something that felt both timeless and new. The shape echoed vintage boat totes, but the details—raw raffia, top-handle structure, and monogram potential—gave it a polished edge.
Here are nine worthy options that feel like an upgrade, not a compromise.
Tibi x L.L. Bean Collab Tote
A limited-edition twist on the classic. Tibi reimagined the L.L. Bean Boat and Tote in elevated proportions and sleek neutral colorways. The collab quietly dropped and quickly sold through most colorways. If you find it in stock, grab it.
$475
Shop here
J.Crew Berkeley Suede Tote
A deep brown suede version
of the classic boat tote. It’s structured but soft,
with leather trim
and elevated finish.
Ideal for early fall transitions
and feels far more expensive than it is.
$193.99 (on sale)
Shop here
Ralph Lauren Straw Brie Tote
Sleek, woven straw with leather handles and a subtle embossed logo. A refined take on the beach bag that works with city outfits too.
$250
Shop here
Loewe x Paula’s Ibiza
Small Raffia Basket
If you want the label without losing the vibe, this one is it.
Raffia meets leather trim in a shape that’s easy to pack and wear. A staple at beach
resorts and farmers markets alike.
$650
Shop here
Dragon Diffusion
Santa Croce Bag
Handwoven leather that softens beautifully over time. This has the same quiet craftsmanship as the Boatkin bag, but with year-round wearability. Seen on stylists from LA to Lisbon.
$621
Shop here
Cesta Collective Lunchpail Bag
Made in Rwanda, finished in NYC. These are structured,
architectural,
and endlessly photogenic.
We love the neutral tones and sustainable sourcing.
$595
Shop here
Sézane Gabin Bag
Affordable, structured, and available right now. This one has the right amount of polish and looks good with both swimsuits and shirt dresses. A nice entry point.
$420
Shop here
J. Crew
Handwoven Straw Market Tote
Don’t underestimate J. Crew’s accessories right now. This market tote is sturdy, clean, and roomy enough for a towel, magazine, and whatever sunscreen is trending on TikTok.
$128
Shop here
L.L. Bean Boat and Tote Bag
The bag that’s everywhere in New England—and beyond. It’s not raffia, but it nails the Boatkin bag energy with durability and nostalgia. Monogram it if you’re feeling bold. I’ve used it everywhere from beach days in Nantucket to farmers markets in Ojai. Comes in multiple sizes and colors.
Starting at $29
Shop here
How to Style Your L.L. Bean Boatkin Inspired Bag
In St. Tropez, we spotted woven bags everywhere—from Club 55 to Dior Cafe. The key is not overthinking it. Pair with a linen mini, oversize sunglasses, and leather slides. If you’re heading to Lake Como, lean into the minimalism: all-white outfit, sleek ponytail, a basket bag slung casually in the crook of your arm.
On a recent weekend in Montecito, I used the Loewe basket bag with jeans and a tank. It somehow made everything look considered. That’s the Boatkin energy.
The L.L. Bean Boat and Tote has also become my go-to for flights. It slides under the seat, holds more than it looks like it should, and fits right in whether you’re in Aspen or Amagansett.
Other Summer Travel Staples To Pair With Your Boatkin Inspired Bag:
- Aspen in Summer: What to Wear at a Mountain Resort Now
- What to Pack for St. Tropez and Club 55
- What to Wear in Paris in June: Day to Night Looks
L.L. Bean Small Accessories, Big Personality
If you’re leaning into the Boat and Tote look, don’t skip the extras. These little add-ons bring personality and practicality. L.L. Bean’s keychains are the perfect accent — clipped onto a handle, used as zipper pulls, or tossed into your bag for a touch of charm.
Some favorites worth adding:
- Rubber Moc Keychain – Shop here
- Wicked Good Slipper Key Chain – Shop here
- Bean Boot Keychain Shop here
- L.L.Bean Micro Tote Bag Keychain Shop here
These aren’t just novelty pieces. They’re well made, durable, and give any bag — whether a Boatkin, a Tibi collab, or your classic L.L. Bean — a playful edge.
Also worth adding to your summer lineup: L.L. Bean’s Micro Boat and Tote Bag, and the standout Bright Neon Pink version They’re tiny, durable, and perfect for summer errands, essentials, or gifting.
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If you missed the Boatkin drop, don’t stress. What made it so good was its simplicity. And that can be found elsewhere—with better prices and quicker shipping.
