Monday, October 5, 2026

A Reader Question: Preppiest Colleges? (repost)

A reader question:

Dear Muffy,

I came across this list of the 40 preppiest colleges in the U.S. and thought of your site <https://www.instagram.com/reel/DKvQsujt6SG/>.  Their top ten are:

1) Amherst College

2) Bowdoin College

3) Colby College

4) Colgate University

5) Dartmouth College

6) Duke University

7) Georgetown University

8) Middlebury College

9) Princeton University

10) Trinity College

How close do your readers think they got?

Thank you 

Thursday, October 1, 2026

A Reader Question: Any insights into or implications of the loss of the L.L. Bean Norwegian sweater?

 A reader question:

Dear Editor,

Today, while visiting the newly designed L.L. Bean flagship in Freeport, I noticed I couldn’t find the Heritage Norwegian Sweaters (Birdseye, Navy) anywhere. So, I spoke to an employee there and later used L.L. Bean’s customer service online chat to confirm they are no longer selling them. I have no clue if this is temporary or more permanent, but I do find it upsetting. 

To me, that is a flagship product of theirs. I realize it’s also one of their pricier products, which would explain why they offer a $89-$99 version of a navy birdseye sweater in Ragg Wool. Though, who could say where that particular version is made.

My question is if you have any insights into the loss of the Norwegian sweater and if this is a larger issue with LLB continuing to attempt to appeal to a different customer base than in years and decades past.

Best,


Links:

Monday, September 28, 2026

Ancient Madder Bow Ties and Tattersall Shirts

Bow Ties: Old J. Press

Tattersalls: Older Mercer and Sons 

(Similar Mercer:  James Bond Brushed Cotton Flannel Tattersall <https://mercerandsons.com/collections/larger-checks-plaids/products/james-bond-tattersall-brushed-cotton-flannel>)



 

Thursday, September 24, 2026

Latin Phrases (repost)

Photos by Salt Water New England

It is hard not to be impressed with the Roman culture's skill of creating efficient phrases.
Mens Sana In Corpore Sano 
Fortuna Eruditis Favet 

Friday, September 18, 2026

This Morning...

Photos by Muffy Aldrich








 

Thursday, September 17, 2026

My Birdseye Fever, 2011

Photo by Muffy Aldrich

 

Monday, September 14, 2026

Up and Down the New England Coast in the Middle of September






 

Reader Question: How do you drink your scotch? (repost)


Reader Question for the Community:
As we segue into Autumn, a question for the community: Single malt scotches, are smoke and peat essential?  Over rated?  Best regards.