I am a huge fan of LLBean boat and totes, I buy them for gifts and for myself all the time, just a warning, the "Ember" color shown online is MUCH different in person. In reality it's a bright coral color. Still great, but when ordered for a baby gift, I was lucky the baby turned out to be a girl! Ember is not the color at all, it's bright coral. If that's what you're looking for, it's a great color, just be warned!
In my experience, the colors in person are much brighter than they appear online (the same goes for the bright blue, it's very bright).
I bought an XL bag for myself. I keep all my crochet items together in it, but can also use it for travel. I also bought 3 as gifts for my 2 step daughters and niece, and had them monogramed. They love them. They use them for college and travel. I plan on purchasing a small one to take to the beach to keep my Kindle and other belongings safe. They'll last forever. VERY happy with them all. Highly recommend them for a college student or anyone else on the go, or to keep your scrapbooking, or other hobby materials in.
I have used LLBean totes in all sizes for many years. They are perfect for the beach, for carrying doggie supplies in the car, for carrying stuff to work, etc. Although they don't have interior pockets, they are lightweight and are easy to fold for storage.
I wanted to try the custom tote option in fun nautical colors, so I ordered a zip-top tote in dark navy with an orange bottom and pocket. I love the finished product and the nice big monogram. My only regret is ordering dark blue as a body color instead of as an accent. I discovered right away that the interior is very dark--even under a bright light it's hard to see into the bag. I took for granted that the standard white bag lets in light both from the top and through the fabric.
Still, the bag is well made and unique. I love the fact that it's made in the USA. Takes a little longer to arrive but it's worth the wait.
I ordered this bag after Christmas for myself, but it would make a great gift. I was happy with the color, but noticed they don't have it anymore. I had planned on ordering a solid cream color tote without monogram or trim color, but was not available. I do love my 'grinch' green handles on my large open top with shorter handles (bag is SO stiff.....can't imagine having the longer handles)! The bag IS very durable, and that would be my only criticism to have it available in solid cream. Would seem to boost sales when alternate 'favorites' are not available. I have not laundered the bag yet.
