Month / June 2016

by Beau H.

Style Suggestion: What to Wear on the 4th of July

Editor’s note: Check out the following link to catch last year’s Fourth of July style suggestion.

It seems as if just yesterday we were talking about what to wear on Memorial Day — and here we are, now talking about what to wear on the 4th of July. Time flies, right?? The 4th of July is often a sort of “style perfect storm” of sorts — it’s likely pretty hot out, there’s the potential to be moving from one activity to the next (swimming at the beach followed by patio drinks, anyone?) and  you very well might have to travel just to do all that. So, first things first — cover off on that stylish weekender bag to get you where you’re going. Maybe fill it with some nice men’s grooming products, too? Now that that’s taken care of, we’ll head onto the below outfit suggestion — it’s all about staying cool and stylish, versatile and ready for anything. If you have any other summer style questions or thoughts, let me know via The Style Guide Facebook page. Enjoy the day, and thanks for reading!

The Shirt: American Trench x Good Life Clothing Indigo Dyed Tee — $72

A collab between two brands that emphasize American manufacturing results in one heck of an indigo tee.

A collab between two brands that emphasize American manufacturing results in one heck of an indigo tee.

So, $72 isn’t exactly the cheapest T-shirt on the market. But when you’re going to be rocking a T-shirt in place of a slim polo, you’d better grab one that’s eye-catching, slim-fitting and very well-made. It’s definitely an aspirational sort of purchase, but if you’re able to get your hands one, your wardrobe would be all the better. The indigo dye (a nod to the U.S.A!) is rich and very unique, for one. Plus, it’s actually made in America — something that’s still to be applauded in the menswear manufacturing game. Toss on a lightweight jacket if it gets breezy, but know that this tee has you set in style in the meantime.

The Pants: JackThreads Slim Chino in Khaki — $49

A classic pair of chinos at a tremendous price.

A classic pair of chinos at a tremendous price.

We’re going with the ever-versatile JackThreads Slim Chino here, because it always pays to have a crisp pair of khaki chinos on hand, no matter the style situation. These chinos would work for travel style (whether it’s across the country or just across town), and with a little care, you could probably wear them again in the same weekend — again, watch out as you man the grill. The price is stellar, the fit should be flattering for lots of guys out there, and you can rock that color for months at a time.

The Sneakers: Brooks Heritage Chariot Sneakers — $79.99

Timeless sneakers that work well in terms of color and styling potential.

Timeless sneakers that work well in terms of color and styling potential.

What’s more American than khaki chinos and an indigo tee? A great pair of lifestyle sneakers from an American original, that’s what. Pairing multiple shades of blue might seem like a risky style move at first, but it’s one that pays off when you consider the rich navy’s contrast against the lighter indigo dye. The blue-and-white color is a nice, subtle style nod to the holiday, and having checked out a pair of Brooks Heritage Chariot Sneakers myself, I can tell you they’re every bit as comfortable as the brand’s first-class running shoes — with more style points, too. They work well with the casual chinos, yet you could still class up this combo with a crisp chambray shirt if need be.
Florsheim
The Socks: Pair of Thieves No-show Spelurking Socks — $10

Red-and-blue socks make for a touch of patriotism paired with functionality.

Red-and-blue socks make for a touch of patriotism paired with functionality.

Although these no-show socks are designed to, well, not show, it’s still wise to grab a pair that incorporates seasonal colors and a good deal of comfort. You can read more about these guys in my post on classic no-show socks for summer, but rest assured that Pair of Thieves makes socks that are comfortable, well-fitting and stylish with a bit of an attitude. Even if not many people see your socks, that’s definitely something they’ve got going for them; and at that price, you can pick up a few pairs without straining your bank account too much.

The Belt: J. Crew Factory Double-Striped Webbing Belt — $14.50

Just the right weight, color and texture for spring and summer.

Just the right weight, color and texture for spring and summer.

When packing for travel (or dressing everyday), it can be a bit of a practice to take care of things right down to the last detail. In this instance, that means not forgoing a  belt. But we’re not just using any ole’ number to hold up those slim khaki chinos — this J. Crew Factory belt combines some nautical vibes (the D-ring loop and double-striping) with a textured white cotton that looks all kinds of right up against the lighter blue shirt and navy sneakers. It’s simple style touches that make a big difference, and if you’re into that, here’s a spring and summer belt for you.
G-Star Raw 468 x 90

The Watch: Form-Function-Form Horween Leather Timex Chronograph — $129

Premium Horween leather meets a tough, dependable watch.

Premium Horween leather meets a tough, dependable watch.

This superb and stylish watch-and-leather strap combo, sold via the great folks at Huckberry, definitely gets a lot of things right on the dual style-and-functionality front. For one, the watch plays off the classic Timex Weekender by adding in a few more bells and whistles (not a ton, though). For another, the combination of a black dial with a rich brown leather Horween strap is a handsome combination that stands out stylishly with a plain pocket tee and dark blue denim during the rest of the summer. That means in this outfit, it’s a downright stunning accessory.

The Sunglasses: Knockaround Fort Knox Polarized Sunglasses — $29.98

Downright cheap, simple and stylish -- not bad for under $30.

Downright cheap, simple and stylish — not bad for under $30.

If you couldn’t just by looking at ’em, the Knockaround Fort Knox Polarized Sunglasses pack a heck of a lot of style into one exceptionally well-priced package. It’s perhaps one of the accessories for which Huckberry is so well-known; they’re definitely not your average pair of shades, that’s for sure. The lenses are polarized, and the frames are injection-molded for extra durability — that’s exactly why they’re worth quite a lot more than roughly $30. While they didn’t make this site’s list of the best men’s sunglasses to buy for summer, they’re a very worthy honorable mention, and quite the pair to bring with you for the 4th of July.

Meeting such a patriotic holiday in style is a lot like dressing for any other holiday, be it St. Patrick’s Day or Christmas. That means nodding to the time of year — in this instance, mixing some red and blue — while working in both some more forward moves (like rolled chinos) and timeless classics (like a stylish leather watch). Crisp sneakers and durable shades work to finish it all off, too. Of course, this time of year is about more than what you wear — it’s also about taking time with family and friends and being thankful for this great country we live in. However you do that, I salute you and wish you the best in style.

Join the style discussion over on Twitter, or follow along via Instagram.

Buck Mason - Timeless Design. Made in America.

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by Beau H.

#OOTD: How to Wear A Chambray Blazer

Editor’s note: You’ve surely seen this hashtag lots of different places, including on Instagram. But how does that carry over to real life? The #OOTD will take one great item and put together a versatile, stylish outfit around it. Look for past features here.

When the heat waves start to roll in, it can be a tricky time to try and dress well. There’s that ever-difficult balance between keeping your cool and looking cool that requires you mix things up a bit. In the case of today’s post, that means we’re talking how to wear a chambray blazer. It’s the lightweight alternative to the classic navy blazer, what with a rougher, more visually interesting texture and (usually) less internal construction. That means it looks more natural when paired with other casual menswear pieces, such as a simple T-shirt and twill pants. It’s a get-up that nods toward a trend (that would be the menswear world getting more and more casual by the day), yet you still look crisp and put-together. As you’ll see with the below #OOTD, it’s a look you could even pull off as you dress for summer travel.  So with that being said, get to reading below. For more #menswear inspiration, check out yours truly on Instagram, or swing on through Facebook for a daily briefing.
Ben Sherman

An effortless mix of casual and cool -- a chambray blazer plus a simple striped tee.

An effortless mix of casual and cool — a chambray blazer plus a simple striped tee.

 

The Blazer: JackThreads Chambray Blazer, $79: A chambray blazer for just $79? Believe it. Slim, stylish and well-made, from a brand that just gets things done.

The T-shirt: Bourbon and Blue Surfcomber Heathered Red Stripe Tee, $55: If you’re going to rock a tee under a blazer, it’s best to pick up one that’s comfortable, well-made and trim-fitting; warm weather stripes don’t hurt, either.

The Pants: Old Navy Ultimate Slim-Fit Khakis, $29: While the color of the chinos in that particular picture is lighter than the pair on Old Navy’s site, the principle remains the same — slim khakis fall in line with that trim blazer and tee, and can be easily rolled to show off those sneakers.

The Sneakers: GREATS Pronto in Cadet, $199: GREATS does, well, a great job at producing versatile, comfortable sneakers that are easy to wear with high-low style combos  like a blazer and tee (Italian manufacturing just does that).

The Socks: J. Crew Anchor No-show Socks, $10: Stylish no-show socks are an absolute summer must, and these add another subtle, nautical touch to the outfit while keeping your feet cool.

The Belt: J. Crew Factory Double-striped Webbing Belt, $14.50: As much as it’s popped up in a few recent #OOTD posts (including this post on how to wear a short-sleeve shirt), it’s a highly versatile casual belt that adds some nice color to this ensemble.

The Watch: Timex Weekender Fairfield, $75: Timex watches are as solid as they get, and this particular timepiece is suitably refined enough to heighten that blazer-and-tee combo just a bit.

The Accessory: Cambridge Satchel Oxblood iPhone Case, $32: So not everyone still has an iPhone (just me?), but regardless of what phone you’ve got, it’d be a neat touch to finish off your everyday with a rich leather phone case.

Does that check all the boxes of dressing sharply in warm weather? Well, mostly. If you feel a tee is too casual, you could always swap in an essential chambray shirt or a classic blue Oxford. But the best part about pairing a tee with a chambray blazer is the combination of effortless style and comfort it gives you. It’s an on-the-go style move that meets the warm weather while looking cool and sharp. Plus, it works well when paired with a classic set of navy sneakers — a more comfortable answer to brown leather wingtips, for starters. And crisp accessories, like a lux leather phone case and a dependable watch, are going to be by your side (and on your wrist) for plenty of outfits in the future. Even starting gradually (swapping out denim for twill pants and upgrading to a lighter chambray blazer) can be a step in the right direction. Still unsure? Give it a try –it might become a go-to style combo.

Are you sold on the idea of pairing a blazer with a striped tee? What about sneakers? Let me know in the comments!

Frank & Oak

 

Buck Mason - Timeless Design. Made in America.

 

by Beau H.

Until we get there: Hitting the road to see Lucius

Editor’s note: Head this way for more personal style posts.

Dressing in style to see one of my favorite bands, Lucius, in the lovely town of Pawling, N.Y. Natural Trucker Jacket by JackThreads. Slim short-sleeve striped chambray shirt by JACHS NY. Slim grey selvedge denim by Billy Reid. Grant Brown Nubuck Shoes by Soul36. Brown leather watch by MVMT Watches. Glasses by Warby Parker.

Dressing in style to see one of my favorite bands, Lucius, in the lovely town of Pawling, N.Y. Natural Trucker Jacket by JackThreads. Slim short-sleeve striped chambray shirt by JACHS NY. Slim grey selvedge denim by Billy Reid. Grant Brown Nubuck Shoes by Soul36. Brown leather watch by MVMT Watches. Glasses by Warby Parker.

As I wrote about during my recap of the 2016 Governors Ball music festival a few weeks back, music is a huge passion of mine outside of my day job (and writing The Style Guide, of course!). That goes for live music in and around NYC, particularly.  So, when I saw that one of my favorite acts of all-time, the indie-pop band Lucius, was playing a small show at Daryl’s House Club in the small town of Pawling, N.Y., I knew I had to hit the road once again — more on the evening in a second, but know that the show was fantastic. Of course, going right from the office to a train to a concert is no matter to be trifled with, so I met the occasion in style (click here for more summer travel style tips in the meantime).
Florsheim
Now, if you’re unfamiliar with Lucius — please fix that (only partially kidding). Berklee College of Music grads Jess Wolfe & Holly Laessig are a duo unlike any other, complemented by a great three-piece band and their blend of indie pop is infectious, melodic, innovative and in short, like nothing you’ve ever heard. They burst onto the scene with their debut album Wildewoman in 2013, which garnered heaps of critical acclaim from critics and fans alike (particularly after they performed a very neat Tiny Desk Concert at NPR). Songs like “Until We Get There” immediately struck a chord with me as well — I was hooked from the first time I heard them! The success of their first album and the resulting acclaim led to an extensive tour run — in fact, I had the pleasure of catching them at Outside Lands in 2014 — and all the while, they blew audiences away with a melodic stage show, ornately designed and coordinated stage wear(more on that in a second), and a refreshingly honest approach to life as seen through music. Seriously — please check them out.

Lucius Good Grief Tour 2016

An intimate evening at Daryl’s House Club in Pawling, N.Y. with the lovely ladies of Lucius.

And the release of their second album, Good Grief, brought them back out on the road again earlier this year — including the stop in Pawling playing to an enthralled crowd as seen above. On that note, the night’s opening act, the lovely Margaret Glaspy, is also worth a listen. Now, I’d already caught one of two NYC shows Lucius played (at the Music Hall of Williamsburg on a great Thursday night), so my expectations were quite high this time around. Musically, the group’s second album evolves their style and blends some 80s rock influences with the lilting, retro-leaning songs for which the group is known (the two best examples of this contrast are perhaps “Born Again Teen” and “Dusty Trails” — both excellent songs in their own right!). Given that they’ve toured the globe, played festivals and wowed more than 1,000 people earlier this spring at Webster Hall in NYC, it was a treat to know that the atmosphere at Daryl’s House Club would be much more intimate (roughly 200-person capacity). The venue doubles in part as a bar and restaurant, making it even more unique. Of course, that’s no less of an excuse to dress in versatile style, right? Concert-going often calls to mind lots of black slim denim, tough boots and maybe a denim jacket, but there are just as many ways to dress for a concert without going that route.
Buck Mason - Timeless Design. Made in America.
To go from my NYC office to the quaint town of Pawling, I grabbed my JackThreads Natural Trucker Jacket and a slim short-sleeve chambray shirt via JACHS NY, along with my durable Satchel & Page Slim Mailbag to haul my gear. The color of the Natural Trucker Jacket is a welcome change of pace from a dark denim jacket, and the short-sleeve chambray shirt is a slightly more dressed-up approach compared to, say, a slim short-sleeve henley (although that would also work here).  And given that the stage style of Lucius is eclectic, unique and often tailored (right down to the coordinated yellow blazers worn by their band), it seemed fitting to wear a collared shirt — style upgrades are in the details, after all. I paired that combination with some trusty slim grey selvedge denim from Billy Reid, another style swerve compared to the black or classic dark blue denim — I’d recommend keeping things slim and tailored when rocking denim to a show.

On the footwear front, I paired up that high-low style combo with the comfortable, lightweight Soul36 Grant Brown Nubuck Derby — of course, no-show socks were essential to finish off the outfit. It’s yet another change of pace from normal footwear found at concerts, but the shoes were comfortable and easy to stand in, and the small space at Daryl’s lent itself to a more relaxed footwear choice. And I capped off the outfit with my brown leather MVMT Watches timepiece, a crisp-yet-casual watch that lent itself to the colors of the outfit nicely thanks to the blue dial. With all that gear in place, I hit the road from work to Pawling, and had just enough time to swing by the Corner Bakery for a tasty afternoon iced coffee. The town itself is small, quaint and worth a trip if you fancy a getaway from NYC. Given that it can often be hectic trying to travel in style and get to a destination on time, it was worth the trip to have the opportunity to explore the town before the show — of course, my main focus was the upcoming performance!

And the show itself — absolutely stunning (catch the above video to get a sample of their live work). Again, the group was perfectly complemented by the blues rock of Margaret Glaspy, which got the crowd ready for a stunning night. Lucius opened with “Madness,” a powerfully rich song off of Good Grief, thrilled the crowd with “Tempest” and picked things up with “Almost Makes Me Wish For Rain,” a jaunty tune that merges an eclectic beat with the rich harmonies of Jess and Holly. The versatility in their set list really is something else, what with slower tunes like “Dusty Trails” playing off more uptempo pieces like “Turn It Around,” another personal favorite. A mid-set outfit change led into a stirring second half of the show, including beautiful renditions of “Don’t Just Sit There,” “Go Home” and “How Loud Your Heart Gets,” just three selections off the stunning Wildewoman album — still a favorite three years after its 2013 release. The highlight of the night was a hauntingly beautiful rendition of “Two of Us on the Run,” one of my all-time favorite songs, which Jess and Holly sang while seated after reading a statement calling for peace, love and unity in the face of so much violence across the country. A better tribute, there couldn’t have been. And a better night and show? Not a chance. Jess and Holly make an incredible duo, the show spans an amazing selection of songs, the entire band plays like a well-oiled machine and their on-stage style (sequined gold jumpsuits and ornate gold capes for Jess and Holly, in this case), is a sight to behold.

The topper to an amazing evening -- meeting Jess Wolfe and Holly Laessig of Luicus, both of whom are extraordinary musicians and very nice, to boot!

The topper to an amazing evening — meeting Jess Wolfe and Holly Laessig of Luicus, both of whom are extraordinary musicians and very nice, to boot!

The evening would have been spectacular enough in its own right even if I didn’t get the chance to meet Jess and Holly afterward — but that capped things off perfectly! It was a pleasure and an honor to meet them — they’re extremely nice, and it’s so refreshing to find that out about the artists who so oftentimes soundtrack our daily lives. Their music means so much to so many people, myself included. I’m counting down the days ’til I see them again! I was also pleased I was able to make the trip without an outfit change from office to concert, but the real takeaway here is that Lucius is an extraordinary band worth your time and money if ever you get the chance to see them — to say the least! Do so in style, and I guarantee you you’ll have a night to remember.

Until next time — see you in the front row,

-Beau

Have a question on how to take on your next event in style? Hit me up on Twitter or follow along on Instagram for all things #menswear.
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by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: GREATS Royale White Sneaker

Editor’s note: Expect these posts weekly detailing one standout item coveted by yours truly. Sometimes, these fit within budgetary restrictions and other times, they’re expensive splurges worth saving for. For more Wish List items from Beau, head here, and to see other Style Picks, head here.

Classic, reliable, wearable with anything, and a bit dressier than the classic canvas sneaker.

Classic, reliable, wearable with anything, and a bit dressier than the classic canvas sneaker.

So, we’re back at it again on The Style Guide with a pair of classic white sneakers, just as we covered off a few weeks ago. But there’s something different about the GREATS Royale White Sneaker. What’s that, you ask? Well unlike the SeaVees Legend Sneaker (a highly versatile set of kicks in its own right), the GREATS Royale is just a bit more premium and just a bit more fashion-forward, crafted from a premium Italian leather that makes it endlessly wearable all through summer. And if you follow this blog at all, you know I’m a sucker for great footwear (wink, wink) — that goes for everything from the GREATS Wooster Slip-on to the brand’s Navy Rosen Runner. And in this instance, the GREATS Royale is yet another excellent example of why it’s so essential to have a stylish pair of summer sneakers (or two, or three, or five) in your wardrobe rotation. So that’s why, in a nutshell, we’re covering off on a great pair of white kicks. With the casual versatility that’s permeating the #menswear world today, white leather sneakers are a reliable stand-in across at least three seasons (yes, even in fall). But when the weather’s warm out, they’re a great go-to. They add a crisp finish to simple rolled denim and a short-sleeve henley, they bring an air of sporty cool to slim tan chinos and a classic polo , and they work very well with linen khaki shorts and a striped tee (check out this Instagram post for an example of one way to style white sneakers). And that’s not even covering off on the ultimate way to style these guys…

GREATS starts with details like rich full-grain Italian leather, and builds silhouettes that are affordable and high-quality.

GREATS starts with details like rich full-grain Italian leather, and builds silhouettes that are affordable and high-quality.

That, my friends, would be with a more daring combo — think rocking these guys with a textured blue chambray suit and white OCBD, or alongside some light grey chinos and that same blue chambray jacket for a great mix of tailored style. And when you mix and match other separates — like swapping in a white polo over the suit’s blue chambray trousers — you get an even more summer-ready combo; it’s not often that you find sneakers you can wear to brunch or the office, but these are just the ticket. Crucially, you get all this versatility for just $159 from GREATS, and the brand (if you’re unfamiliar) brings its knowledge of craftsmanship and quality to the table from start to finish. We’re talking full-grain Italian leather and waxed cotton laces, for starters. And if the GREATS Royale is anything like its other sneakers, it should be ridiculously comfortable, fairly easy to clean and long-lasting. You can’t ask for much more than that, can you?

Do you own the GREATS Royale? How do you like ’em, and how would you wear them?

Buck Mason - Timeless Design. Made in America.

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by Beau H.

The Friday Read: How to Style A Blazer, American-Made Watches & Taylor Stitch

Editor’s note: Expect these posts once a week on Fridays — consider this a jumpstart on reading for your weekend downtime. Expect a mix of style and non-style content. For more entries, click here.  

Although all weeks go by particularly fast around these parts, this past week was one for a bit (just a bit) of reflection amidst the hustle and bustle of NYC. I had the chance to catch up for some delicious patio brews and oysters with my good friend Clay Chambers of Brothers & Craft, who just returned from some momentous time abroad at menswear trade and runway shows in London, Paris and Milan (and in fact, you can catch more on Clay in a Style Guide Q&A).  We took the time to catch up, to chat menswear and to take some time out from the grind — we find ourselves in different places a lot, but always reconnect. It’ was a great reminder to slow down every so often and take life in stride (even if the scenery is a bustling New York sidewalk). That helped cap off a busy week indeed, and I’m even more excited to finish off the work week with a special night at Daryl’s House Club (just a quick train ride from NYC), seeing one of my favorite groups of all-time, Lucius.  Their music definitely reminds me to slow down and take things in, and even if it’s my second time seeing them, it should be just as special. I hope you get the chance to take some time, relax and enjoy the weekend — but not before checking out the Friday Read below (wink, wink).

  • The ever-stylish team at Valet offers up 4 tips on how to style a blazer this summer; some of those combinations are absolutely perfect, don’t you think? (Editor’s note: For more tips on how to rock a blazer, click here).
  • The equally style-minded team at Gear Patrol reports that American watch company Weiss will be launching the first watch featuring an American-made movement in a long time.
  • Non-Style Note of the Week: We  all love some Starbucks, right? Well, there’s a chance they could be underserving and overcharging you — a case is headed to court claiming that Starbucks is overcharging you for smaller lattes; not exactly a great value, ehh?

On the lookout for more style content?

  • The team at Taylor Stitch is back at it again with the seriously sturdy Transit Duffel — get all the details via my latest post at GearMoose.
  • Add another collection to your list of “must-do” shopping — the Canvas by Lands’ End line is packed with style essentials, as I found out in writing a brand profile for the great team at The Manual!

Lastly, thanks as always for reading, and enjoy the weekend,

-Beau

Buck Mason - Timeless Design. Made in America.

by Beau H.

The Product Review: Owen & Fred Voyager Waxed Weekender

Editor’s note: Head here for a host of product reviews on menswear style essentials.

A navy twill interior and army green waxed canvas are complemented by leather handles from Wickett & Craig.

A navy twill interior and army green waxed canvas are complemented by leather handles from Wickett & Craig.

As luck would have it, it’s been quite some time since our last menswear product review here at The Style Guide. They were a fixture on this here #menswear blog for quite some time, and we’re back today with a review of the Owen & Fred Voyager Waxed Weekender. Past reviews have showcased a range of product, from an essential chambray shirt to a pair of classic chukka boots and beyond. Well, here’s another one — and just in time for summer travel season.  In fact, traveling in style could get a whole lot easier if you snag a durable, essential and stylish men’s weekender bag — perhaps one a heck of a lot like the option you see at the top of the page. Yes indeed, this bag has quickly become a big-time favorite at The Style Guide, and it’s accompanied me on a stylish trip to upstate New York, as well as a recent long weekend in Washington, D.C. (thanks to the brand sending it along for testing). Would I recommend picking one up the next time you hit the road? Absolutely. Why’s that? Read on.

Owen & Fred Voyager Waxed Weekender

As seen in this site’s roundup of the best men’s weekender bags. Photo courtesy of Owen & Fred.

Over time, the excellent men’s lifestyle and design brand Owen & Fred has won me over in a big, big way. They’ve been kind enough to participate in a few Reader Giveaways and provide this site with product for review, and I’ve been a fan of their approach to design even before that. They stock an essential selection of, well, essentials for the discerning guy — be it a sturdy brass bottle opener (a favorite on my Instagram) or larger pieces, like a durable canvas laundry bag (unfortunately sold out). The full product assortment is pretty extensive, yet all designed with refinement and style in mind, and that goes for everything from its shaving kits to intricate wall art. It’s with that approach — great design and quality first — that they’ve crafted the Voyager Waxed Weekender, and it certainly shows. In every situation, from those weekend trips to hopping around NYC, it’s performed very well, and I think that trend will certainly continue.

The Voyager Waxed Weekender in tow for a stylish weekend. Chapter Travel Kit by Herschel Supply. Slim Chinos in Light Stone and Jack in Indigo Star Shirt by Taylor Stitch. Heritage Tassel Loafers by Sebago. Leather lanyard by Tanner Goods. Waterbury Chrono by Timex x Red Wing. Adventure Log by Word Notebooks. Maximus Sunglasses by Sunday Somewhere.

The Voyager Waxed Weekender in tow for a stylish weekend. Chapter Travel Kit by Herschel Supply. Slim Chinos in Light Stone and Jack in Indigo Star Shirt by Taylor Stitch. Heritage Tassel Loafers by Sebago. Leather lanyard by Tanner Goods. Waterbury Chrono by Timex x Red Wing. Adventure Log by Word Notebooks. Maximus Sunglasses by Sunday Somewhere.

The specs are impressive and worth noting, for starters. The bag’s tough, rugged and versatile foundation starts with Martexin Original waxed canvas in an eye-catching shade of Army Green. It’s a different look and feel than the typical weekender bag, as that waxed canvas already has broken in beautifully during the production process. (If, on the other hand, you prefer a more luxurious bag, perhaps check out the last option in this site’s post on the best men’s weekender bags). But in this humble style writer’s opinion, that broken-in styling and feel really is a tremendous attribute in terms of looks. That also means the waxed canvas is more pliable than it is stiff, and that’s definitely a good thing if you tend to pack a lot of style essentials for the road, as I did as recently as a Memorial Day trip to upstate New York.
Frank & Oak
That’s yet another box that can be checked off when it comes to the Voyager Waxed Weekender — it’s roomy and comfortably fits two-three pairs of shoes, plus a weekend’s worth of #menswear gear. In the case of yours truly, that means versatile pieces like a slim chambray shirt, dark denim, brown leather chukka boots and indigo sneakers, for example. In comparison to my Navali Stowaway Weekender, it’s got enough room for about a day’s worth of clothes more (that is, an extra set of chinos or denim, plus a shirt and shoes). What all this boils down to are the bag’s dimensions — 22 inches in length and 12 inches in diameter.

A look at the waterproof qualities of the waxed canvas, plus the beautiful leather handles via Wickett & Craig.

A look at the waterproof qualities of the waxed canvas, plus the beautiful leather handles via Wickett & Craig. Photo courtesy of Owen & Fred.

Aside from its plentiful space (including two interior zipper pockets),  the bag is finished off with sturdy zippers and brass hardware that shows no signs of stress or giving way. The tightweave (removable) shoulder strap is fairly comfortable, although perhaps some leather reinforcement could be added (that could just be me being accustomed to my Satchel & Page Slim Mailbag, however). Speaking of leather — let’s talk about the detailing on this bag. The 9oz. harness leather straps that finish off the Voyager Waxed Weekender  on the handles and at the strap are coming at you via Wickett & Craig , one of the oldest tanneries in the country.
END. Clothing
That attention to detail shows, as these handles are soft and supple, yet sturdy enough to support a fully-packed bag. They’re also rich in color and contrast nicely with the waxed Army Green canvas (although this bag is also available in Charcoal). And down onto the navy cotton twill interior, this bag is something else. It’s a work of art — practically — that should carry everything you need for a stylish weekend away and beyond. It’s got a rugged-refined appeal that’s unique, eye-catching and classic, all at once. Whether you carry it alongside slim stone chinos and an indigo shirt, or stylish summer shorts and a pocket tee, it’s going to add plenty of practicality, function and classic style to all your summer adventures.

Get your own Owen & Fred Voyager Waxed Weekender now.

Florsheim

by Beau H.

#OOTD: How to Dress for Summer Travel

Editor’s note: You’ve surely seen this hashtag lots of different places, including on Instagram. But how does that carry over to real life? The #OOTD series will take one great item and put together a versatile, stylish outfit around it. Look for past features here.

One of the biggest steps in improving your style — whether you’re new to this whole #menswear game or digging in deeper — is making that extra effort to look great even when you’re off the clock. That could mean one of many possible situations, like dressing for Sunday brunch or prepping for a spring bar crawl, but given where we are on the calendar, it likely means you’re wondering how to dress for summer travel. It’s a curious task that can be a tall order — looking your best while on the road means dressing sharply, staying comfortable and finishing off your kit with excellent accessories, like one of the best dopp kits for men (written by yours truly, as it were). The below #OOTD incorporates a bit of everything, including chinos fit for travel — an upgrade over the sweats that some might be wearing — and a navy blue blazer that can go anywhere and do anything. Add in accessories fit for your everyday carry as well as a long day on the road, and you should be set. Got questions or comments? Hit me up on The Style Guide Facebook page. To see what I’m taking as I travel, follow me on Instagram — and we’ll see you on the open road!

Taking a traditional travel outfit and upgrading it with slim fits and go-anywhere essentials.

Taking a traditional travel outfit and upgrading it with slim fits and go-anywhere essentials.

The Chinos: Apolis Civilian Travel Chino, $138: A staple of any great outfit, these cotton chinos should be comfortable for flying and look a heck of a lot better than what your seatmate might be wearing (it’s all in the name, right?). Plus, they can go from the plane to a meeting to dinner — or just from the plane to a bar, your call.

The Shirt: Bourbon and Blue Beachcomber Shirt in Blue Chambray, $89: Here’s an easy style hack — stay cool yet look sharp by ditching the sleeves of your classic chambray shirt in favor of something cut slimmer and sharper. The Shoreline Check fabric from this upstart brand should add nice visual interest, too.

The Jacket: Grayers Cayman Blazer in Navy, $175: A knit blazer that ditches the traditional trappings of a jacket — AKA, no construction here to speak of — should fit sharply and stylishly over that crisp chambray shirt.

The Shoes: Soul36 The Grant Derby in Brown Nubuck, $195: A new take on the derby shoe, these brown nubuck shoes are made with a clean look in mind; the red-brick sole should offer a refined bit of contrast beneath the grey chinos.

The Socks: American Trench Summer Footies, $13.50: Because you’re going to want a nice, clean finishing touch beneath those rolled chinos, reach for durable, comfortable, American-made socks.

The Belt: J. Crew Classic Buckle Belt, $45: Sometimes, you don’t need an overly fancy belt — just a reliable classic that goes with your best business-casual or your best summer wedding look.

The Watch: Timex The Waterbury, $95: Part of Timex’s revamped line of heritage-inspired classics, the Waterbury is a reliable watch that’ll pair just fine with this outfit — or with a polo and chinos later on.

The Travel Companion: Jack + Mulligan Passport Wallet in Brown, $74.99: If you’re jetting overseas, this piece could be especially useful and stylish. But even if you’re only hopping on a train an hour or two away, this piece could still work reliably well when it comes to carrying a notebook.

As with many style upgrades, dressing for travel comes down to assessing what you’ve got, then pairing it up in ways customized to the situation. So a short-sleeve chambray shirt and a knit blazer are going to be lightweight, comfortable and reliably stylish options whether traveling for business or pleasure. And some eye-catching brown nubuck shoes cap off the outfit o in a way that works for multiple situations. Plus, a dependable Timex watch can go just about anywhere, as can comfortable no-show socks. If it gets hot out, ditch the blazer — and if you still need it as the trip goes on, be sure to store it in a stylish weekender bag. If you’ve got questions on how to dress for summer travel, hit me up on Twitter. Check back tomorrow for a neat reader giveaway opportunity that might just help you when you hit the road next time.

Stay stylish!

-Beau
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Florsheim

by Beau H.

Online Shopping Picks: The Best Men’s Swimsuits to Buy Now

Editor’s note: For even more seasonal online shopping picks, head this way.

Here to help you pick out your ideal pair of summer swimwear. Setter Swim Trunks by Orlebar Brown. Organic cotton pocket tee by United By Blue. Eco-friendly watch by Sprout. Snowdon Sunglasses by Tom Ford.

Here to help you pick out your ideal pair of summer swimwear. Setter Swim Trunks by Orlebar Brown. Organic cotton pocket tee by United By Blue. Eco-friendly watch by Sprout. Snowdon Sunglasses by Tom Ford.

From time to time, nailing the right seasonal style can feel a bit overwhelming. After all, searching for and building off style upgrades isn’t easy. That extends to the little details (as your humble writer so often mentions), and that includes even times when you might feel a bit off-duty. In the case of hot summer weather, that means your swimsuit. Like a slim T-shirt or a nice pair of shorts, it’s a place that you shouldn’t slack off. Luckily, swimwear has come under the spotlight a lot in recent years, thanks to stylish guys like James Bond himself rocking designer swim trunks (007 body not included). However, my fellow #menswear fan, you don’t have to go that fancy — or that expensive — to get yourself set with essential beach gear. There are swim trunks that strike the right vibe between casual and classy, and a lot of them look more like tailored shorts than in years past. For days when you might hop on a boat and then hop off for a round (or two, or three) at the dockside bar, that’s critical. Pick up a top men’s swimsuit below, and chime in over at The Style Guide’s Facebook page if you’ve got other picks I missed. Surf’s up!

#1. JackThreads The Swim Trunk — $39

A solid offering from a consistently great brand, at a great price.

A solid offering from a consistently great brand, at a great price.

If quality, affordability and style are what you seek, JackThreads has you covered. From its innovative new TryOuts program to the fact that it stocks a plethora of style essentials — from a spring field coat to the stylish swim trunks seen here, they consistently get a lot of things right. These are cut slimmer than normal and should hit about mid-thigh for most of us fellas, which provides a nice, tailored look. The Dress Blues color is versatile enough that these look more like shorts than anything else — see the intro paragraph for how versatile that makes ’em.

#2. Bonobos Surfside Board Short in Blue Chambray — $88

A longer inseam for us taller guys, plus a sharp blue chambray color.

A longer inseam for us taller guys, plus a sharp blue chambray color.

Our second pick here is quite the bump up in price, but definitely worth the investment. In fact, investing in a pair of swim trunks cut in a tailored fit is about the best thing you can do if you want to push yourself to upgrade the rest of your outfit. That is to say, good-bye ratty tank top, hello crisp white polo (as seen in this style suggestion). The nice thing about these trunks is that they’re cut with a 9-inch inseam; while that might be too long for some of us, that’ll hit the spot for others. Bonobos also stocks a wide range of other swimwear options, from board shorts to trunks in a range of lengths, so there’s something for everyone.

#3. Sunspel Swim Short in Navy — $210

Recreated based off the swim shorts worn by Sean Connery as James Bond, and as sharp as you would expect.

Recreated based off the swim shorts worn by Sean Connery as James Bond, and as sharp as you would expect.

Ahh, yes. Here we are — a premium swim short that gives you a crisp, tailored look, yet doesn’t break the bank (compared to the Orlebar Brown trunks sported by Daniel Craig’s Bond). It’s fitting, then, that Sunspel was commissioned in 2011 to do up their own recreation of Sean Connery’s swim trunks as James Bond. The result is a sharp, lean and tailored pair of swim shorts with a nifty front button pocket and a super-clean waist (not a drawstring in sight — not that drawstrings are bad). The cost of these Sunspel Swim Shorts will set you back as much as the Bonobos pair above, so why not dive in?

#4. Grayers Batik Print Swim Trunk — $88

Vintage print inspiration makes these fun and functional.

Vintage print inspiration makes these fun and functional.

Man, $88 sure is a popular price when it comes to swim trunks, right? For those of us who prefer a little more color and pattern in our trunks (yet won’t compromise on fit), here comes the Grayers Batik Print Swim Trunk, playing off a cool, vintage-inspired print that wouldn’t look out of place alongside a vintage ballcap. The 7-inch inseam is a solid length that again lends them a tailored look. Everything from a slim navy polo to a short-sleeve Oxford is going to look just right when matched with these swim trunks — nautical gear should be a bit fun, after all. Just don’t forget stylish sunglasses to top it all off.

#5. Zachary Prell St. Giorgio Swim Trunk — $138 

Designer style meets swimwear with these Zachary Prell swim trunks.

Designer style meets swimwear with these Zachary Prell swim trunks.

If you prefer a more premium, minimal take on swimwear, the Zachary Prell St. Giorgio Swim Trunk is the pair for you. Italian fabric means these trunks cost more, but look all the better for it. They’ll again hit above the knee, giving you a bit more coverage if you’re taller. The teal blue color is totally spring and summer-appropriate, and makes them a bit more eye-catching and continental than other swim trunks out there. With a just-right length and versatile color (rock ’em with a white polo to start), they’ll be a reliable workhorse for plenty of trips to the beach.

While it can seem daunting at first to carry over great style principles from on land to in the water, it can definitely be done if you know where to start and you know what you’re looking for. Keep in mind classic, reliable brands like J. Crew for solid swimwear, and make sure you know your fit; not too long, not too short (ideally). If you follow the adage that great style is an investment, take your time picking out the right pair, and then wear them again and again with versatile style staples. Let me know what you pick out over on Twitter or catch my summer beach game over on Instagram.

Thanks for reading, and stay stylish!

-Beau

 

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Todd Snyder Pocket T-Shirt

 

Not just any old T-shirt, thanks to the vintage wash and subtle styling details.

Not just any old T-shirt, thanks to the vintage wash and subtle styling details.

If you follow The Style Guide or peruse occasional photos from this author on Instagram, you’ll know I love me a great T-shirt. When you talk about a T-shirt that incorporates texture and subtle styling details, I’m sold (take this Stock Mfg. Co. Pocket Tee, for example). Sure, a tee’s not as fancy or nearly as crisp as a classic blue Oxford or a slim chambray shirt, but it’s a particularly useful summer style essential — and in the right cut and fabric, it’s a surefire style upgrade compared to athletic or logo-ridden tees you might be used to rocking. And on that note, I’m pleased to give you Exhibit A — this ridiculously stylish Todd Snyder Pocket T-shirt. It’s vintage-washed and weather-dyed for a broken-in, authentic look, and it features the sort of premium styling details we’ve come to expect from Mr. Snyder. The lauded American menswear designer is a favorite of this site (and a heck of a lot of other publications) for his approach to both continental, classic tailoring and rugged sportswear inspired by both vintage & Americana themes. It’s quite the combination, and it’s done in a way that’s wearable and relatable for the everyday guy. The Todd Snyder Pocket T-shirt is nearly as premium and well-made as a tee can get, and that means it can be rocked plenty of ways this summer.

Todd Snyder pocket T-shirt

Just one styling option for this Todd Snyder pocket T-shirt — it’ll go just as well with sweatshorts as a slim suit.

It’s done up with just the right amount of style details, including subtle double-stitching on the sleeves, pocket and collar. The button at that front chest pocket is a nice visual change of pace, too. Those small touches make it the type of tee you can wear very confidently atop your favorite pair of dark blue denim, and they also make it very suitable to rock with slim olive chinos and some classic white SeaVees sneakers, for example. The slim fit and premium construction make it Exhibit A for another reason, too. Thinking about trying the oft-tricky styling move of pairing a T-shirt with a suit? A tee with some variation in texture plus a slim cut is going to be the way to. Heck, it might not look all that bad with one of the Todd Snyder White Label suits that seem to be gaining in popularity, either. In more casual situations, it’s going to look just as right. Rock it with slim chino shorts and stylish leather loafers for a solid high-low style combo on the weekends, then pair this slim pocket T-shirt up with an unconstructed chambray blazer during the work week. Beneath a sportier crewneck sweater, it’ll also fare well in the fall and winter. The price is assuredly a lot for “just a T-shirt,” but you’re getting so much more styling potential and quality than that. Just tell them to put one on hold for me, ehh?

Are you a fan of this Todd Snyder tee? In what ways would you style it? Chime in on Twitter or via Facebook!
New customer offer! Get your first shirt or shorts for only $20 at Frank + Oak! (Valid until June 21 on select styles and while supplies last)

Florsheimc

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: Summer Style Guide, Mainland and the 2016 Tony Awards

Editor’s note: Expect these posts once a week on Fridays — consider this a jumpstart on reading for your weekend downtime. Expect a mix of style and non-style content. For more entries, click here.  

Can you believe it’s already the end of the third week in June? It’s pretty crazy how time’s been flying by so far this summer. We’ve got some big things in the works at The Style Guide HQ, including a great reader giveaway upcoming next week with my friends at Mack Weldon, plus tips on the best men’s swimsuits to buy for summer and a stylish #OOTD, per usual (wink, wink). If you haven’t hit the road yet this summer, take a look back at this site’s picks for the best men’s weekender bags for travel, as I rounded up five great ones. In fact, I just put my trusty Navali Stowaway Weekender to use as I hit the road to Timberland HQ in the rustic town of Stratham, N.H., for a great Fall 2016 planning session (again, time’s been flying by so far). If you get the chance, I’d recommend you check out lovely Portsmouth nearby. And back in NYC, the rest of the week was quite a busy one, what with catching an exciting concert put on by my buddies in Brooklyn indie rock band Mainland — if you’re in need of new music, give them a listen on Spotify. Before you catch those new tunes though, check out all the news that’s fit to print (digitally, of course) in the #menswear world this week. Enjoy, and thanks for reading!

  • Get Kempt dishes out its Summer Style Guide via its partner platform at Urban Daddy, and it’s chock-full of items for your consideration.
  • Are you feeling stuck sartorially? Here are the 10 best-dressed men of the week via GQ, and you can get some nice styling tips therein.
  • Even if you don’t follow the theater community, it’s always worth a look at red carpet style — so with that in mind, check out the New York Times’ recap of style at the 2016 Tony Awards.

In need of more men’s style reading?

  • We’ll have a full post coming on Monday, but for now, check out a quick post covering stylish new JackThreads Swim Trunks, as covered by yours truly at GearHungry.

Again, check back tomorrow for a super-stylish (what else?) Style Pick of the Week, followed by a reader giveaway with the Mack Weldon team.

New customer offer! Get your first shirt or shorts for only $20 at Frank + Oak! (Valid until June 21 on select styles and while supplies last)

G-Star RAW