Q&A with Body Acceptance Advocate and L.L.Bean Superfan Katie Sturino
WORDS AND PHOTOS BY KATIE STURINO
Katie Sturino has mastered the multi-hyphenate career. The entrepreneur, author, podcaster, style guru and body acceptance advocate has earned a devoted following by empowering others to feel confident in their skin – and in their clothing. Katie, a longtime Maine devotee and L.L.Bean fan, is partnering with us to share some of her favorite, classic L.L.Bean looks.
L.L.Bean recently celebrated the release of more sizes in more styles – all at the same price – for men and women, ensuring that every body can fully engage in the restorative power of nature.
We sat down with Katie, who told us about her love story with Maine – where L.L.Bean originated – and which L.L.Bean pieces she’s excited about integrating into her outdoor wardrobe. Follow her adventures at katiesturino.com and keep an eye out for her expert styling tips on Katie's Instagram.
Tell us your L.L.Bean story, when did you become a fan of the brand? Do you remember the first piece of L.L.Bean apparel, footwear or gear that you purchased?
My very first L.L.Bean purchase were boots that I bought in 2008 after Gwyneth Paltrow posted about them. Ever since, I've been a big fan of the brand and admired it for being one of the few outdoor brands to make their apparel inclusive.
What connected you to Maine?
I've always been - spiritually - connected to Maine! For as long as I can remember, I've felt a pull to Maine. Then, in March 2020, I became physically connected to Maine when John and I rented a house there... and ended up staying for seven months! Those months in Maine reconnected me to the outdoors and - not to sound too dramatic - reawakened my soul.
What are your L.L.Bean must-haves from the Spring 2022 collection?
The Comfort Cotton/TENCEL Shirt and the Stretch Canvas Cargo Pants in Dusty Olive.
The Pom Hat in Golden Lemon, though you can't go wrong with any of them!
The Sweater Fleece Slipper in Gray Heather.
What’s your go-to L.L.Bean piece?
The Sherpa Fleece Jacket in Antique Gold or Emerald Spruce!
What L.L.Bean pieces are you looking forward to incorporating into your wardrobe through the seasons this year?
I'm especially looking forward to the technical gear meant for kayaking and exploring the woods.
You love shopping L.L.Bean for your husband John. What are some of his favorite pieces and your favorite pieces for him?
He's obsessed with the Supplex Sport Shorts and the Multisport Pants right now! They're awesome and made of a technical fabric that can be easily worn outdoors. And I love when he pairs them with his Double L® Polo , a classic that comes in all the colors!
Let’s talk about fit. Would you say L.L.Bean’s clothes fit true-to-size?
Yes! Yet another reason to love L.L.Bean.
L.L.Bean wants everyone to experience the restorative benefits of time spent outside. What is your favorite way to spend time outside?
Whether it's walking through low-tide or hiking Mount Battie, or just sitting outside, I love getting outside.
How has spending time outdoors impacted your mental, physical and emotional health?
Spending time outdoors is a GAMECHANGER for my mental health. After spending most of 2020 in Maine, I realized that I'm the happiest - and the calmest - when I'm outdoors!
