L.L. Bean Japan Edition collection returns to the US
L.L. Bean, the iconic New England outdoor apparel brand with a devoted following in Japan, has launched a Japanese clothing collection in the U.S. – and it's already selling out online.
The 2026 Japan Edition collection marks the retailer's second such release and includes coats, tees and dresses with a "boxy, oversized" fit – styles typically available only at its Japan locations, the company said.
In the 1980s and 1990s, L.L. Bean gained popularity among Japanese customers, as tourists visiting its Maine flagship store sparked an influx of mail orders from Japan, the retailer said. High demand eventually led the company to open a store in Tokyo and begin catering directly to that market.
"Building on decades of cultural exchange and a shared appreciation for craftsmanship, L.L. Bean’s collaborations with Japanese designers and brands have become a cornerstone of its success in Japan, blending classic Americana with the innovative spirit of Japan’s creative community," the company said on its website.
Nick Wilkoff, L.L. Bean's chief marketing officer, said the fashion eventually came full circle, with American customers seeking out the Japanese clothing.
"Our Japan assortment has long been coveted stateside. It has an 'if you know, you know' quality to it," Wilkoff said in a statement.
Last year, L.L. Bean tested its Japanese-inspired clothing designs in the U.S. to strong interest. The Japan Edition collection is now "back by popular demand," the retailer said.
"Highlights include oversized silhouettes, natural fits and layered styles, as well as a bright, summer-forward color palette with unique design details," L.L. Bean said.
As of Tuesday, March 24, the 2026 collection is available online and at select L.L. Bean stores.
Where to find L.L. Bean's 2026 Japan Edition collection
The 2026 Japan Edition clothing collection is available at 12 L.L. Bean locations. All 12 locations are listed on the retailer's website.
Customers can buy the pieces online, though some items sold out within a day of the launch.
It was unknown how long the collection would be available, but Wilkoff described it as "limited."
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