Month / August 2016

by Beau H.

Catching some rays: A summer vacation in Florida

Editor’s note: To recap my latest travel style adventures, click that link.

Just one snap of my time spent in sunny Florida. Pocket tee by Steven Alan. Tropical-print linen shorts by Todd Snyder. Cooper Boat Shoes by Jack Erwin. Sunglasses by Nautica. Flat Wool Cap by Bridge and Burn. Mod Watch by Timex x Todd Snyder. Bracelet by Bryer Leather.

Just one snap of my time spent in sunny Florida. Pocket tee by Steven Alan. Tropical-print linen shorts by Todd Snyder. Cooper Boat Shoes by Jack Erwin. Sunglasses by Nautica. Flat Wool Cap by Bridge and Burn. Mod Watch by Timex x Todd Snyder. Bracelet by Bryer Leather.

It might seem hard to believe, but today ends a whirlwind stretch of 12 out of 17 days on the road for me — yes, that’s right! That included a trip West to Liberty Fairs, plus a wedding weekend in Michigan, all fun in their own way, and all involving some stellar #menswear (if I do say so myself). Given that I’ve grown pretty accustomed to hitting the road as of late, it made my next trip all the more enjoyable; it’s not all that often that I get to head South to visit my family in Florida, but it’s always a special occasion. In this case, I was able to celebrate my mom’s birthday (Happy Birthday, Mom!) and take in a truly epic AC/DC concert with my dad in nearby Fort Lauderdale — but more on that in a second. I was last in Fort Myers in March (a Style Guide spring break, if you will), and this go-round, I was able to bring along a different — yet hopefully just as stylish — set of men’s style essentials for a longer trip (Friday to Wednesday morning, as it were!).

A full bag for a few extra days in Florida. Voyager Waxed Weekender by Owen & Fred. Printed swim trunks by JACHS NY. Army Issue Sneakers by SeaVees. Black Henley by Stitchmill. Mod Watch by Timex x Todd Snyder. Adventure Log by Word Notebooks. Facial Crème by Nivea For Men.

A full bag for a few extra days in Florida. Voyager Waxed Weekender by Owen & Fred. Printed swim trunks by JACHS NY. Army Issue Sneakers by SeaVees. Black Henley by Stitchmill. Mod Watch by Timex x Todd Snyder. Adventure Log by Word Notebooks. Facial Crème by Nivea Men. Brass bottle opener by Owen & Fred.

That started, as always, from the ground up. I’ve realized the importance of making sure your small items are both durable and stylish — such is the case with my Herschel Supply Chapter Travel Kit, an easy-to-pack, easy-to-use dopp kit that sheds water (the wide array of colors doesn’t hurt, either). It fit nicely inside my reliable-as-ever Owen & Fred Voyager Waxed Weekender, which actually ended up holding about six days worth of gear (see, that’s versatile dressing — wink, wink). I also packed up a durable Stitchmill Henley and other easily wearable pieces. On a side note — if you’re going to grab one henley, you might want to make it a slim-fitting, made-in-America purchase from Stitchmill. But onto the rest of the trip. As I headed right from the office in NYC to the plane, I took advantage of a very casual Friday and threw on my OLIVERS Capital Shorts and the lightweight, comfortable Stio Divide Polo, both of which provided nice freedom of movement and versatility for moving from work to a flight and dinner. Of course, my Jack Erwin Cooper Boat Shoes were also durable and crisp for a half-day in the office and the resulting flight to Florida, which proved to be longer than expected thanks to some travel delays. The time spent in the air was more than recovered thanks to a few tasty brews at Twin Peaks, brewers of four in-house beers and some excellent pub fare, including the Billionaire Bacon Burger. Friday night done right!

Catching some much-needed Florida rays. Dash Tank by Fourlaps. Swim trunks by JackThreads. Flat Wool Cap by Bridge & Burn. Sunglasses by Nautica. Sneakers from the MW for Reef collab. 8926 Pro Diver by Invicta. Bracelet by Bryer Leather.

Catching some much-needed Florida rays. Dash Tank by Fourlaps. Swim trunks by JackThreads. Flat Wool Cap by Bridge & Burn. Sunglasses by Nautica. Sneakers from the MW for Reef collab. 8926 Pro Diver by Invicta. Bracelet by Bryer Leather.

With a busy work week and travel day in the books, it made Saturday all the more enjoyable — it was time for a relaxing beach day with fittingly casual apparel. That meant I threw on the Fourlaps Apparel Dash Tank, because everyone could use a little sun now and then.  I covered the brand in a piece on the best athleisure brands for men, and they’re worth checking out if you want performance-minded apparel that’s a little more bold — and a little less logo-heavy — than your average tank top. It was an easygoing complement to my JackThreads Swim Trunks, which were pretty sharp in a deep navy color. Beach-ready footwear is an essential, and a pair of casual grey sneakers from the Masafumi Watanabe x Reef collaboration were just the ticket, able to stand up to sand & the walk through the parking lot after. Perhaps the most versatile timepiece I brought with me was my Invicta 8926 Pro Diver — I’ve had that thing for about three years now (it even nabbed a spot in this site’s roundup of the best dive watches), and it fit right in underneath the sand & sun. Given the need to transition from situation to situation,  I’d suggest you also grab a versatile, casual-yet-refined dive watch for your next waterfront outing.

For a trip to one of my favorite stops in the Fort Myers area (the excellent Point Ybel Brewing), I also kept it casual. The great thing about those OLIVERS Capital Shorts is that, minus repeated gym sessions, they can hold up to darn near anything (including a repeat wear for an easygoing dinner). My situation up top was also breezy and casual, as it was the prime opportunity to feature a fun vintage printed shirt. A regular (read: Non-vintage) printed short-sleeve shirt is the ideal way to have a bit of fun in the warm weather, and my reliable-as-always Jack Erwin Cooper Boat Shoes worked just fine for grabbing a few pints.  We topped off the night with a stellar dinner at legendary local spot Doc Ford’s — my parents would surely recommend the Yucatan Shrimp.

Buck Mason - Timeless Design. Made in America.

As one does in Floriday, Sunday provided another lovely opportunity to relax and explore at the same time. That meant a Sunday Funday trip to Punta Gorda and some exploration around the Fishermen’s Village shopping area (complete with a requisite stop at nearby Fat Point Brewing — get the Big Boca Ale to go in a growler, if you get the chance!). We also grabbed a tasty waterfront meal   No trip to a beautiful waterfront locale would be complete without the chance to once again break out those Jack Erwin Cooper Boat Shoes. which are a decidedly sleek upgrade to the typical boat shoe. They offset a new favorite pair of breezy tropical-print linen Todd Snyder shorts (an end-of-season sale pick-up) — they were sufficiently breezy, comfortable and yet stylish. Of course, accessories to fight the sun were also crucial — in this instance, that meant some Nautica sunglasses in a cool, retro-yet-modern (there is such a thing) Clubmaster-style shape. My trusty Tread for Men Traveler Sunscreen helped me fight the sun’s rays — seriously, don’t skip out on that — and although I reached for my Invicta 8926 Pro Diver for some pool time early in the day, my refined Timex x Todd Snyder Mod Watch — on a NATO strap, no less — was the perfect pick for more time in the Florida heat.

The Sydney & Berne Davis Art Center in downtown Fort Myers. Breton Stripe Tee by Grayers. Colter Pants by Stio. Sunglasses by Nautica. Flat Wool Cap by Bridge & Burn. Striped webbed belt by J. Crew. Mod Watch by Timex x Todd Snyder. Bracelet by Bryer Leather.

The Sydney & Berne Davis Art Center in downtown Fort Myers. Breton Stripe Tee by Grayers. Colter Pants by Stio. Sunglasses by Nautica. Flat Wool Cap by Bridge & Burn. Striped webbed belt by J. Crew. Mod Watch by Timex x Todd Snyder. Bracelet by Bryer Leather.

Unlike past trips to Florida, which required a quick turnaround, I had the chance to take a bit more time in and around the city of Fort Myers. That meant some pool time on Monday, and it also meant a chance to hit up downtown Fort Myers outpost The Lodge for a heck of a lunch and some stellar brews. The décor is rustic and alpine-themed, the barbeque is stellar and the selection of regional and national craft beers is on-point (the Cigar City Lager from Tampa is a crisp, easy-drinking upgrade to a Miller Lite, if that’s in your wheelhouse). To meet the occasion in style, I paired my Grayers Breton Stripe Tee (slim-fitting and comfortable) with the Stio Colter Pant, a slightly stretchy chino made from premium Turkish cotton. It moved well, and made it easy to stroll around town post-lunch — particularly when paired up with those trusty Jack Erwin Cooper Boat Shoes and other style essentials, like my Timex x Todd Snyder Mod Watch. When you talk about pieces that mix crisp, modern style with a retro vibe, that timepiece is one of them — as is my trusty Bridge & Burn Flat Wool Cap, which came in handy shield my face from the sun. Despite some rain showers, it was an excellent day capped off by some delicious fried chicken at Sanibel Island hotspot The Pecking Order and a beautiful sunset on the beach.

An outfit that's ready to rock. Authentic band tee and tickets by AC/DC. 505C Denim by Levi's. Chukkas by Timberland. Waterbury Chrono from the TImex x Red Wing Heritage collab. Double IPA by Two Roads Brewing.

An outfit that’s ready to rock. Authentic band tee and tickets by AC/DC. 505C Denim by Levi’s. Chukkas by Timberland. Waterbury Chrono from the TImex x Red Wing Heritage collab. Double IPA by Two Roads Brewing.

So a tremendous day on Monday led to one (big) thing on Tuesday — the concert to end all concerts, an absolutely epic AC/DC show. That explains the authentic  band tee (no knock-off designer band merch here!), my reliable Levi’s 505C Denim, (a rock-inspired jean perfect for the show), and some durable leather chukkas. But onto what truly was an explosive night! Say what you will about their music or their consistent (ahem, stubborn) approach to music, but AC/DC were one of the first bands I ever loved — and I love them to this day, personnel changes and all! The show was worth an entire blog post in and of itself, particularly when you snag prime second-row seats, as my dad and I did (I’m going to pause to try & recover some of my hearing now).

The legendary Angus Young ripping off some blistering riffs in Fort Lauderdale at the BB&T Center.

From the opening chords of “Rock Or Bust” to a blistering take on “Shoot to Thrill,” a ripping rendition of”Sin City” and the classic “High Voltage” — and every single song in between — Angus Young never stopped moving or peeling off insane riffs. And Axl Rose truly did sing his butt off, too — he’s no Brian Johnson, but he channels both Brian & Bon in one heck of a rock n’roll way (on-stage wardrobe choices aside). Even without Brian in the mix, the band is a sight to behold … they’re perhaps the last great “classic” rock band that tours consistently behind original music, and boy, do they put on a show. Chris Slade has proven an admirable fill-in behind the drum kit for Phil Rudd, and Stevie Young is his uncle Malcolm incarnate, holding down the engine room admirably on rhythm guitar.  I could certainly go on, but suffice to say — Bon Scott would be proud of “the boys.” Next up — the band’s stop at Madison Square Garden in just about two weeks. Needless to say, I’m ready.

Travel style essentials

An early flight after an AC/DC concert? No problem. Club V-neck Tee by Life/After/Denim. Leather chukka boots by Timberland. Notebook by Word Notebooks. Mod Watch by Timex x Todd Snyder.

With all that being said, the trip still seemed to come to an end all too soon — that could’ve been the early wake-up call to get back to NYC on Wednesday, too. My Life/After/Denim Club V-neck Tee (it’s proven quite the quick seller) was the ideal casual way to catch an early-morning flight — luckily, it fits the bill at my laidback office, too. And my Levi’s 505C Denim worked again to travel back — the hint of stretch is key, and the durability made them an easy pick when matched with the simple, stylish Timex x Todd Snyder Mod Watch. It’s now time to power through the work day, and unpack my bag until I travel next. With Labor Day on the way though, I’ve got some stylish adventures planned — I’ll be exploring the buzzed-about town of Asbury Park (that’s New Jersey, folks), and bringing along some stylish essentials (of course). Keep up with all the #menswear action on Twitter or Instagram, and check back here Friday for a weekly menswear news recap.

In rock we trust — it’s rock or bust,

-Beau

Buck Mason - Timeless Design. Made in America.

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by Beau H.

#OOTD: How to Wear a Denim Dress Shirt

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. Thanks to Paul Fredrick for partnering with The Style Guide on today’s post and shirt review.

There’s only one way to do business casual — right? Maybe a classic blue Oxford, tan chinos and stylish leather dress shoes? Well, that’s certainly one way to look at it. But the great thing about being into matters of style is that there’s not really one set uniform any more. Now, there are certainly preferred ways to dress (preferably not using Mr. Kanye West as an example) and you definitely need to keep fit and proportion in mind, but there’s room for experimentation. Such is the case with this week’s #OOTD here on The Style Guide. It starts out classically enough — using a button-down collar shirt and grey pants as the outfit’s base, but deviates from there. The denim dress shirt in particular is worth noting. Now that you’ve got that in line, how should you style this shirt? Well, we don’t want to give away all the good stuff — read on for more, and send me a tweet on Twitter if you have a style suggestion you’d like to see covered.

 

Part casual, part classic and all wearable -- taking a denim shirt and mixing things up.

Part casual, part classic and all wearable — taking a denim shirt and mixing things up.

The Shirt: Paul Fredrick Slim-Fit Non-Iron Solid Twill Shirt, $89.50 — Made from textured 100 percent cotton twill that looks just like your favorite pair of dark denim, this shirt is a welcome change of place from a white Oxford or even a lighter blue chambray shirt.

The Jacket: Rogue State Suede Bomber Jacket, $139.99 — How do you mix up a crisp business-casual look even further? With a bomber that’s slick and anything but straightforward. Even if it’s a bit warm now, this jacket should be a fall workhorse.

The Pants: Dockers Jean Cut Slim Fit Pants, $58 — While slim grey chinos would also work here, there’s just something about a denim shirt that calls for a  bit more texture, and these five-pocket pants, inspired by classic denim and cut slim, are just the ticket.

The Sneakers: Todd Snyder x P.F. Flyers Grounder Hi-Top in Olive, $130 — The latest iteration of the Todd Snyder x P.F. Flyers collaboration  is the perfect way to trade out brown leather chukka boots for footwear that’s sporty but still outfit-appropriate. Wear them now, wear them on the weekends and look forward to fall.

The Socks: American Trench Textured Herringbone Supima Cotton Socks, $15 — There’s certainly a lot of darker color going on in this outfit, but these rich navy socks complement the olive sneakers, blue twill shirt and brown bomber jacket nicely.
The Watch: Jack Mason Brand Nautical 3-Hand Watch, $157.98 — Jack Mason stylishly merges the sporty, casual and refined in one timepiece inspired by nautical instruments. It’s the ideal addition to an ensemble that’s clean and fast.

The Belt: Maximum Henry Standard 02 Belt, $74.98 — The most “business casual” part of this outfit might be this slim, refined belt. Sizes are limited right now, but you can also find Maximum Henry belts at his Web site.

The Everyday Carry: This Is Ground Leatherback Writer 3, $84.98 — Everyone needs that one everyday carry item that can do it all, and this is the way to go. It holds your smartphone, doubles as a wallet and features a notebook slot and room for all your other odds and ends.
If ever you feel like you might be in a wardrobe rut, take the time to dream up some new outfit combinations, ways that you can use what you’ve already got to your advantage (or heck, enter the Paul Fredrick giveaway as discussed earlier and win some new clothes!). Working high-top sneakers into an office or work outfit might not be  for everyone, but with clean and classic styling potential, it’s worth a shot. And a slim-fitting denim dress shirt is the thinking man’s change of pace in terms of texture and color on the shirting front. Lastly, who couldn’t use a handsome bomber jacket and a sporty-yet-refined watch? These are all items worth considering in terms of your next #OOTD or your next #menswear purchase. Got questions or final thoughts? Leave ’em in the comments below.

by Beau H.

Style Suggestion: What to Wear For Labor Day Weekend

Editor’s note: Head this way for another Labor Day style suggestion.

It’s pretty wild to think that summer’s now in the rear view mirror — just about, that is. If you didn’t hit the road for Memorial Day weekend or the Fourth of July , perhaps now is the time for you to take that big summer trip. If it involves dressing to head to the beach, we’ve got you covered. And if it involves a multitude of activities — some travel, some play, some relaxation — hopefully, the below style suggestion has you covered. That goes for heading to your destination, kicking back during a barbeque and perhaps strolling around town. Of course, dressing for summer travel should be top of mind, too.  And in the event it’s unbearably hot where you’re headed, no need to fear — some #menswear-centric tips for dressing for the hot weather should set you right. Either way, it’s about meeting the occasion in style and keeping versatility, fit and function in mind. And if the pieces below can work for other style scenarios, that’s all the better. Let me know of your Labor Day plans — and get the discussion going — on Twitter or Facebook. Now as for me — I’ve got some weekend adventures to the up-and-coming coastal city of Asbury Park, N.J., coming up, and I’ll be taking my favorite style essentials with me. Keep up with everything on Instagram, while we’re at it. In the meantime, stay stylish!

The Shirt: Dockers Premium Wrinkle Slim-Fit Twill Shirt — $68

A unique texture and solid color make this shirt an easy pick-up.

A unique texture and solid color make this shirt an easy pick-up.

First of all — we’re going with a long-sleeved shirt here for a bit more versatility (yes, even in the heat). Let’s say you need to throw on a casual cotton tie at some point during the weekend — this twill shirt has you covered. Dockers might seem like a unique choice as far as shirting given how popular the brand’s Alpha Khakis have been as of late. But this shirt has a unique texture, a color combo befitting of the last gasp of summer (not too bright, not too dark), and a slim fit. That makes it an easy pick — supplement it in your bag with a slim pocket T-shirt and a light blue polo.

The Shorts: OLIVERS Capital Short — $68

Available in a darker Navy or the colorway seen here, these shorts are flexible, functional and fashionable.

Available in a darker Navy or the colorway seen here, these shorts are flexible, functional and fashionable.

These shorts might look familiar to some readers — they were the subject of a recent Style Pick of the Week feature, and we’re keeping them around for their versatility, comfort and excellent fit.  In a heightened blue-grey color, they add a nice bit of contrast to the Dockers shirt shown above. For being made from a nylon blend, they have a flattering, tailored fit and all the touches one would expect from a pair of slim chino shorts. That means the side draft and rear welt pockets rid the silhouette of excess fabric, and the above-the-knee fit is essential in terms of both style & ease of movement. Still not sold? They’re comfortable as heck for all-day travel, as I found out during a recent trip to Las Vegas. If they can handle that, they can handle anything. Oh, and don’t forget a comfortable belt built with quite a bit of stretch.

The Belt: Arcade Belt Co. Crawford Belt — $36

Easy to wear and easy to buy, thanks to an agreeable price.

Easy to wear and easy to buy, thanks to an agreeable price.

For situations where you’re moving around a lot, comfort is of the utmost importance. That’s absolutely the case with your belt — a leather belt, while appropriate here, could potentially be uncomfortable for running or lots of walking (or sitting, or standing). A belt that mimics that look and feel, yet does so while also incorporating a weather-resistant smartweave fabric, is the way to go. Yes, the Crawford Belt is your versatile answer to comfort and style — tough to find in a belt these days.

The Sneakers: Reebok x JackThreads Daily Classic Nylon — $75

Part classic runner, part modern-day sneaker. Perfect for a weekend that calls for a bit of everything.

Part classic runner, part modern-day sneaker. Perfect for a weekend that calls for a bit of everything.

What’s one way to offset the somewhat standard combo of a button-down and shorts? A stellar pair of sneakers. When the team at JackThreads sets its mind to something, they usually do a pretty stellar job. That’s the case here with the Reebok x JackThreads Daily Classic Nylon, another recent Style Pick of the Week feature that makes a reappearance here. In simple terms, these sneakers combine retro cool with a sharp, clean aesthetic. They’d be just as easily wearable with a pair of slim sand chinos as they would with the casual combination seen above. Plus, the price is stellar for a  name-brand collab, and the Navy colorway is pretty neat, too.

A sporty perlon strap and a refined dial design bridge the gap between casual and dressy.

A sporty perlon strap and a refined dial design bridge the gap between casual and dressy.

Did you think we forgot about a stylish casual watch here at The Style Guide? Not a chance. There are a lot of subtle touches in this particular Jack Mason timepiece that make it quite the purchase, from the black perlon strap to the elegant-yet-versatile face to the fact that the 42mm case diameter should work for a variety of wrist sizes. The Super Luminova markings are helpful for reading the watch when it’s dark out (by a bonfire that’s dying down, perhaps?). Plus, the 100-meter water resistance is useful for casual time spent in the waves or by the pool.

The Sunglasses: Sunski Madronas Sunglasses — $55

A solid pick-up that can stand up to the rigors of the weekend.

A solid pick-up that can stand up to the rigors of the weekend.

Finding the right pair of stylish sunglasses at the right price is an ordeal, sometimes. You want a versatile, classic frame shape, plus durability and an agreeable price — where to go? The Sunski Madronas is your answer to all those categories. A functional frame shape and a look that’s crisp-yet-casual make this pair of shades a heck of a deal. And for under $60, they can get beat up a bit without too much worry. So if things turn competitive in that backyard football game, you’re all set.

The Weekender Bag: Huckberry Bradley Mountain Weekender Duffle — $179

A ruggedly handsome bag with the specs to back it up. Use this thing day after day, trip after trip.

A ruggedly handsome bag with the specs to back it up. Use this thing day after day, trip after trip.

So, you might’ve been reading this post and thinking to yourself: “Gee Beau, those picks are great and all, but… how the heck am I packing this stuff?” My friend, meet the Bradley Mountain Weekender Duffle. It’s a favorite of Huckberry readers — and a heck of a lot of other people — for its beastly specs and handsome looks. Your humble author is talking, of course, about the blend of Field Tan Martexin waxed canvas, solid copper rivets and organically processed oiled leather — not to mention, its made-in-America construction. All of those should definitely have you sold on the Bradley Mountain Duffle — if not, see me after class.

 All things considered, hopefully the above Labor Day style suggestion has you all covered for the weekend. It can be tough to pack a bag full of gear for every possible situation — space is limited even in the best weekender bags, after all. But packing smart — there’s a secret weapon we can all keep in mind. In this case, pieces like a textured shirt that toes the line between formal and casual is a solid bet, as are shorts that combine performance, comfort and style into one. Sharp, eye-catching sneakers are a solid complement to a dressier pair of footwear (say, slim leather loafers?). And accessories like a versatile watch and a tough weekender bag never fail you — that’s why they’re worth investing in when buying. If you think I missed any picks, let me know at The Style Guide’s Facebook page, or drop your own suggestion in the comments below.

Buck Mason - Timeless Design. Made in America.

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Reebok x JackThreads Daily Classic Nylon Sneakers

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.

Reebok JackThreads Sneakers

JackThreads updates a classic — with very pleasing results. Photo courtesy of JackThreads.

What’s a guy to do when he feels like he’s got the basics covered? We’re talking classic pieces you can rotate in and out, and wear every day. In the footwear game, that could mean everything from leather loafers for spring to classic white sneakers to durable fall boots. Every once in a while though, you get the itch to switch things up a bit — but not too much. That’s where a collaboration effort that’s at once classic and style-forward makes perfect sense. And that’s where today’s Style Pick comes from — the Reebok x JackThreads Daily Classic Nylon is firing on all cylinders; believe me, these sneakers are certainly worth your time.  Although some aren’t into the retro style of these kicks, there’s no question that as far as trends go, this silhouette manages to be of-the-moment without going too far off the beaten path (that’s why they’re a good pick to switch up your footwear closet). The overall feel and look is sleek and well-composed. Both Reebok and JackThreads have teamed up admirably on a stylish runner that blends premium pigskin suede with rich leather accents and a durable nylon upper — the combination is pleasing to the eye, and quite high-quality. And for just $75, you’re getting a heck of a sneaker.

Take your pick between White or Navy -- neither can go wrong. Photo courtesy of JackThreads.

Take your pick between White or Navy — neither can go wrong. Photo courtesy of JackThreads.

Either the White or Collegiate Navy option are going to take care of business for you — after checking out the White pair for just over a week now, they’re a winning pick in my book. In fact, they worked very well on a trip back to Michigan when paired with a slub polo and shorts, yet they also would’ve stylishly complemented some slim sand chinos I brought with me. And that attention to detail in design & execution extends to the small touches that make these kicks unique to JackThreads — we’re talking orange-tipped laces, an orange shoe lining and an orange outsole on the navy pair. Despite those pops of color, these shoes aren’t too ostentatious at all — the retro silhouette manages to feel streamlined and understated. Even when worn for long periods of time, these sneakers feel comfortable and bounce back nicely. If properly cared for with the right suede-cleaning tools and other spot touch-ups, they could reliably work in spring, summer and early fall. The versatility is such that you could try pairing them with, say dark khaki corduroys (almost sold out now, but sure to be restocked soon!) and a classic crewneck sweater when it gets a bit chilly in early fall. And right now, you should definitely break them out with everything from slim chino shorts to light wash denim. The only doubts you should have are whether to buy these in White, Navy — or both.

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: Emerging Menswear Designers, Mack Weldon Underwear and Travel Style

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.  

Does it feel crazy that Labor Day is bearing down upon us? Wasn’t it just the Fourth of July? Heck, wasn’t it just Memorial Day? When you’ve been on the road so much — as I have — things start to move a little fast. It’s definitely been welcomed though, and I hope your summer has featured some great travel; I know I certainly had fun attending a Michigan wedding this past weekend, preceded by a stylish business trip to Las Vegas. Time on the road never ends, though — this weekend, I’m catching a flight to Florida to relax in the sand and sun with my parents! Just as with a  Style Guide spring break trip to Florida earlier this year, I’m very much looking forward to getting some quality beach and pool time. There are a lot of great reasons to be in town, including celebrating my mom’s birthday (Hi, Mom!) and a long-awaited AC/DC concert in nearby Fort Lauderdale (yes, AC/DC — an all-time favorite!). Of course, the trip will definitely include some delicious meals, ample shopping time and stops through Fort Myers’ finest breweries — not to mention, an Instagram feature or two … or several (and a full travel style blog post next week).  If you’ve got a trip of your own coming up, even if it’s just to the beach, bring along #menswear essentials and you’ll be all set.  For now though, let’s kick back in style and prep for the weekend ahead — there’s a little bit of everything in the below Friday Read.

  • Before you focus on your big fall purchases, refresh your underwear drawer — the Mack Weldon team just launched a bevy of new colors in its popular 18-Hour Jersey Boxer Brief. They’re perhaps the highest-quality underwear I’ve ever owned, and the fit & feel is great. Seriously, check out Mack Weldon if you haven’t already — yeah?
  • If you thought you knew all of your favorite menswear designers, think again. GQ Style introduces you to the best new menswear designers on the market this fall. Study up!
  • Last but not least — perhaps it’s my desire to upgrade my apartment space, but Valet urges you to upgrade your man cave into something more refined — a gentleman’s study. Not a bad thought — some essentials from the likes of Owen & Fred might set you right.

Don’t close your browser just yet — there’s more men’s style coverage right here:

    • Your new favorite fall sneakers are here — that is, if this launch wasn’t on your radar already. The latest Todd Snyder x P.F. Flyers collaboration just dropped (as covered by yours truly for The Manual), it’s just about everything you could ask for in a pair of high-top sneakers. We’re talking sturdy military-grade canvas on the upper, a reinforced sole and front toe bumper, and two very cool color options. Pick these up now and wear them as often as you can!
    • If you love a great finishing touch as much as I do, perhaps you’d be interested in checking out my GearMoose post on the best men’s dive watches — it covers options both budget-friendly and prohibitively expensive. It’s a supplement to this site’s guide to the best dive watches, if you will.

Buck Mason - Timeless Design. Made in America.

by Beau H.

Online Shopping Picks: The Best Men’s Pocket Tees

Just but one example of how to wear a stylish pocket tee. The Tee Shirt in Heather Grey by Richer Poorer. Stringer Dune Shorts and Flat Wool Cap by Bridge & Burn. Cooper Boat Shoes by Jack Erwin. Watebury Chrono from the Timex x Red Wing collab. Maximus Sunglasses by Sunday Somewhere.

Just but one example of how to wear a stylish pocket tee. The Tee Shirt in Heather Grey by Richer Poorer. Stringer Dune Shorts and Flat Wool Cap by Bridge & Burn. Cooper Boat Shoes by Jack Erwin. Watebury Chrono from the Timex x Red Wing collab. Maximus Sunglasses by Sunday Somewhere.

The small details that can make or break an outfit are a big focus at the ol’ Style Guide. Everything from the break of your pants to the cut of your slim polo to the quality of the buttons on your favorite classic Oxford should be up for consideration. And it’s with that in mind that we’re talking about (all together now) the style upgrade (Ding, ding!) that comes with one of the best men’s pocket T-shirts seen below. What’s the big deal about a pocket T-shirt? And why should you grab one (or two, or three) the next time you want to hit ‘Refresh’ in your closet? For one, it’s got more visual interest and styling potential than a basic tee – the chest pocket and the fact that texture is a big part of a great pocket T-shirt speak to that. And two: It can be worn on its own, it can be slipped on underneath a chambray shirt in the spring, or layered up under your favorite crewneck sweater in the fall or winter. For one T-shirt, that’s a lot of versatility. So ready your mouse, pull up a chair and read away. To see how to style a pocket T-shirt, check out yours truly on Instagram or Twitter, too.

#1. Richer Poorer The Tee Shirt in Heather Grey — $54 (Two-pack)

A soft, slim-fitting and easily wearable pocket tee.

A soft, slim-fitting and easily wearable pocket tee.

For a company that started out making socks, Richer Poorer has done an admirable job expanding its line of basics step-by-step. As of late last year, that includes a selection of easily wearable, slim-fitting and practically essential pocket tees in a range of versatile colors that runs the gamut from a crisp Black to a pleasing off-white Natural shade. The Heather Grey color shown here — and as I wore on a Memorial Day trip upstate — might just be the best of the bunch, with soft fabric and enough visual interest to be worn under an unstructured blazer in the summer  (not to mention a shawl-collar cardigan in the fall and winter).

#2. Mack Weldon Pima Crew Neck in Indigo Heather — $34

Well-fitting basics are what Mack Weldon does, and this Indigo Heather tee is no exception.

Well-fitting basics are what Mack Weldon does, and this Indigo Heather tee is no exception.

For a company that makes basics that are sometimes thought of as simple, Mack Weldon sure does things the right way. Everything from the brand’s 18-Hour Jersey Trunks to its boxers are made with quality, comfort and style in mind. Those are underrated qualities when it comes to stylish basics, but the brand’s got it on lock. Mack Weldon is a Style Guide favorite for that very reason, and this pocket tee – in a great shade of heightened indigo – is just the ticket for wearing with your favorite khaki blazer in warm weather, or a washed crewneck sweater when the weather gets breezy. The price ain’t half-bad, either.

#3. Buck Mason Steel Slub Pocket Tee — $32

Visual touches like a rounded hem and a trusty pocket set this T-shirt apart.

Visual touches like a rounded hem and a trusty pocket set this T-shirt apart.

If you’re not hip to what Buck Mason’s doing yet, I’d suggest you acquaint yourself with our latest Style Guide Q&A, first. All good? Great – let’s get down to business. The brand makes a mean pocket tee, crafted with rugged-refined fabric and pleasing design details like a rounded hem. The Steel color shown here is just different enough from a typical light grey, and that difference adds a bit of an edge – in this case, it’s the type pocket tee to wear with off-white chinos and tan suede chukkas for a slightly monochromatic look. And, the quality of this T-shirt is such that it can be worn under a lightweight navy blazer or a chunkier cable crewneck sweater.

In a neutral color like black or navy, you've got all sorts of styling options.

In a neutral color like navy, you’ve got all sorts of styling options.

When is a basic T-shirt more than a basic T-shirt? When it’s made with soft, slubby fabric right in America, that’s when. Add in the fact that this particular Steven Alan T-shirt plays well with other refined, minimal staples from the brand, and you’ve got a pocket T-shirt worth the investment. In this instance, you should look to pair the navy color with everything from the brand’s slim black denim for a night out, to a pair of crisp light grey trousers alongside an olive blazer (see how we’re really working that neutral color angle?). Of course, you can easily wear it sans jacket with your favorite pair of chino shorts the rest of the summer.

#5. Abercrombie & Fitch Striped Pocket Tee — $20

Still thinking of the old Abercrombie & Fitch? Think again, my friends.

Still thinking of the old Abercrombie & Fitch? Think again, my friends.

Since when did Abercrombie & Fitch become so stylish? Well, the short answer is that the brand’s always had rugged heritage and solid knitwear, yet the overall line required a bit of … freshening up, if you will. Design head Aaron Levine – of Club Monaco fame – has so far upgraded the brand’s look and feel admirably, and that means pieces like this striped pocket T-shirt work well alongside new classics, such as this stellar field coat. The fit of this T-shirt is slim, the stripes add that crucial visual interest, and there’s not a logo in sight. Buy a couple of these for your T-shirt drawer — or save the extra cash for whatever the brand dreams up next.

Still think a pocket tee is something to put aside in your search for a stylish wardrobe? If you’ve got your basic #menswear essentials covered, think again. Particularly if you like stocking up on new items every now and again, it’s a style you can and should reach for consistently in months both warm and cold. Whether grab a slim Todd Snyder pocket T-shirt or one of the picks above, there’s no doubt that even the smallest of details – like the rounded hem on that Buck Mason pocket tee – can elevate the humble pocket tee from just another T-shirt to something that can be a focal point of your outfit. Tuck it in a bit, roll up the sleeves, toss it on under a denim jacket or go clean-cut with a breezy linen blazer – there’s not really a way these stylish pocket T-shirts can’t be worn.

Got questions on these tees? Think I missed one? Chime in on Twitter to get this #menswear feud going (wink, wink).

Circle back on Friday for our weekly menswear recap – we’ll see you then,

-Beau

Florsheim

by Beau H.

#OOTD: Dressing for a Laidback Office

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.

If you haven’t noticed on the calendar, we’re still in the midst of a pretty hot August. And even if you’ve got other tactics for fighting the heat in style — like rocking lightweight linen pants or a chambray blazer — there are still times where you might feel you’ve run out of ideas. Or rather, where you just want to look sharp and put-together even in a work environment where things are decidedly more casual. That’s where today’s 9-to-5 look comes in. Although you can add a classic blazer if you’d like, we’re ditching the jacket in favor of a well-fitting, lightweight denim shirt. It’s a welcome style swerve from a slim blue Oxford, believe me. And when paired up with style essentials that are crisp but not overly stuffy (like suede chukkas), you’ve got a head-to-toe ensemble that looks just fine, even sans blazer. So get that credit card at the ready, open a few extra browser tabs (online shopping is the best, am I right??) and check out the below #OOTD. For a real-time look at what your author is wearing on the daily, head to Instagram or Twitter.
Buck Mason - Timeless Design. Made in America.

Taking the standard business casual outfit & updating it with suede chukkas, a floral tie and a casual denim shirt.

Taking the standard business casual outfit & updating it with suede chukkas, a floral tie and a casual denim shirt.

The Pants: J. Crew Bowery Classic Pant in Cotton Twill, $79.50 — J. Crew excels at making style staples that work in multiple situations, and these cotton twill pants featuring a tailored-but-not-tight fit are no exception; you could also style them up with leather sneakers, but they work best in this biz-casual scenario.
Frank & Oak
The Shirt: JackThreads The Denim Shirt, $24.50 — Although this shirt featured prominently in a recent #OOTD on how to dress for a casual summer day, it can also be livened up with a lightweight tie; plus, that price is a fantastic value.

The Tie: Ties.com Blue Cotton Florence Tie, $20 — What’s the ideal complement to a light blue shirt? A navy floral cotton tie, of course. Pick up some no-show socks from Ties.com while you’re shopping, too.

The Shoes: Blu Kicks Tahoe Sand Chukka, $128 — While you could also rock some stylish leather loafers here, unlined suede chukkas are going to provide comfort, a shot of color and the ability to be worn underneath a rolled hem — they tie everything together even more casually — of course, that means you need comfortable no-show socks, too.

The Belt: Anderson’s Stretch Woven Leather Belt, $195 — A belt that’s nearly $200? Well, when you can wear it all four seasons and with outfits dressy or casual, you’ll get plenty of use out of it (see this #OOTD for another example).
The Watch: Jack Mason Nautical 3-Hand Watch, $157.98 — The great folks at Huckberry always curate stylish essentials for your everyday, and this unique watch that plays off nautical design inspiration is no exception. It’s dressy and sharp, yet water-resistant up to 100 meters.

The Briefs: Mack Weldon 18-Hour Jersey Boxer Briefs in Bossa Nova, $24 — When it comes to finishing touches, the Mack Weldon team has you all set. The brand’s boxer briefs might just be the most comfortable and high-performing on the market.
The Everyday Carry: Field Notes Brand Original Ruled Notebook (3-pack), $9.95 — If you’ve been looking for a low-profile addition to your desk, these notebooks are the way to go — they’re a design lover’s dream, measured and made with precision and accuracy in mind. Not a bad addition to your daily carry, right?
If you find yourself at a bit of a #menswear impasse when it comes to mixing up your summer style, it’s best to stick with what you know. That is, a shirt that’s well-fitting and casual, plus crisp dress pants, for starters. The touches that finish everything off — like suede chukkas, a unique watch and dependable accessories — go a long way in making this look one that’s refined and just a bit different from what you might normally wear on a daily basis. And shoes like those comfortable suede chukkas can rack up a lot of mileage in other situations both casual and refined, so they’re a wise pick-up now. Got questions or suggestions on this #OOTD? Leave it in the comments below, or drop me a note on Facebook.

by Beau H.

Back in the Mitten: A wedding weekend in Michigan

Editor’s note: To recap my last trip (earlier this week!), click here.

A wedding weekend -- and a bit of bar crawl action -- to boot. Denim Shirt by JackThreads. Slim Italian-made denim by Mott & Bow. Sand Suede Chukkas by Blu Kicks. Watch by MVMT Watches. Backdrop by Lansing Brewing.

A wedding weekend — and a bit of bar crawl action — to boot. Denim Shirt by JackThreads. Slim Italian-made denim by Mott &; Bow. Sand Suede Chukkas by Blu Kicks. Watch by MVMT Watches. Sunglasses by Tom Ford. Backdrop by Lansing Brewing.

If it seemed like the last week was fast, it felt like the weekend flew by even faster — boarding your fifth flight in six days (including those pesky connections) will do that to you. But Friday’s early, early morning flight brought me once again back to my home state of Michigan, and my hometown of Mason for my great friend Andy’s wedding weekend (and a tip o’ the cap to my pal Chris for hosting me this weekend). It felt strange yet fitting to be back in the Mitten so soon — I was just in Grand Rapids for the bachelor party at the end of July, after all.  But it was an honor to be in Andy’s wedding, and the trip back also presented the all-too-rare chance for me to spend just a bit of time in a town I really do love. Seeing as I was in Las Vegas for a work conference just a few days before, I also felt pretty confident I could dress, and pack, for the trip with style and attention to detail. Nothing like unpacking, then repacking almost immediately, to teach you about versatile style, ehh?

A casual, comfortable Friday travel outfit. Slim Mailbag by Satchel & Page. T-shirt in Heather Grey and Colorblocked Socks by Richer Poorer. Slim Staple Denim by Mott & Bow. Tan Suede Chukkas by Blu Kicks. Hawker Hunter II Watch by AVI-8. Vintage ballcap by Goorin Brothers. Leather lanyard by Tanner Goods. Sunglasses by Steven Alan Optical. Adventure Log by Word Notebooks.

A casual, comfortable Friday travel outfit. Slim Mailbag by Satchel & Page. T-shirt in Heather Grey and Colorblocked Socks by Richer Poorer. Slim Staple Denim by Mott & Bow. Sand Chukkas by Blu Kicks. Hawker Hunter II Watch by AVI-8. Vintage ballcap by Goorin Brothers. Leather lanyard by Tanner Goods. Sunglasses by Steven Alan Optical. Adventure Log by Word Notebooks.

As I was in the wedding — held at the picturesque English Inn  in the rolling Michigan countryside — my grey tuxedo was taken care of, other than my shoes; the crisp Johnston & Murphy Duvall Wingtip  more than got the job taken care of there (more to come on the wedding shortly, but it was an amazingly beautiful and fun night!). So with formal wear out of the way, my focus was on packing some casual style essentials into my dependable Owen & Fred Voyager Waxed Weekender, along with my sturdy Satchel & Page Slim Mailbag.  As I’ve talked about before on these (digital) pages, great luggage can keep your gear safe and stylish no matter where you go, and those two bags will set you right. To meet the challenge of traveling in comfortable-yet-crisp style, I grabbed one of my favorite tees, the Richer Poorer T-Shirt in Heather Grey, and topped off the look with a personal favorite, a vintage ballcap from Goorin Brothers. Now, we’ll be talking more about stylish pocket T-shirts on the blog on Wednesday *cough, cough* but know that this particular tee fits and breathes well while looking visually different than a plain crewneck. It offset my Mott & Bow Staple Denim in rather classic fashion — the dark wash and significant stretch in this pair of denim is ideal for travel. Comfortable footwear was also a must — for lightweight, casual style and a pop of color, I threw on the Blu Kicks Sand Chukkas, which I’ve been testing out with positive results these past few weeks. The unlined suede upper is ultra-comfortable, particularly with a pair of Richer Poorer cotton socks, and you can feel good about the fact that they’re handmade in Mexico from local materials for a great price.

And on the watch front, I picked a timepiece that’s as dependable and durable as any — I’m talking about the AVI-8 Hawker Hunter, a rugged, aviation-style watch with a case diameter that clocks in (pun intended) at a beefy 45mm. It still manages to come off understated thanks to the neutral beige leather strap, and it was the ideal travel companion as far as watches go — smart, functional and not fussy. The head-to-toe combo of comfort and style worked quite well for an afternoon spent in my hometown of Mason — as I said before, it’s not often I get to go back there, and it’s always a treat when I do. In this case, that meant a stop at Mason institution Bestsellers Cafe for a gourmet coffee. An early start to the day also meant that the afternoon was high time for some extra sustenance — cue up a stop at BAD Brewing Company, a stellar and relatively recent craft beer outpost that’s been drawing rave reviews for its homegrown brews and gourmet bites. Yes, I’d recommend a stop there if you ever pass through Mason — and it was the perfect way to cap off an afternoon stroll around the beautiful campus of my alma mater, Michigan State.

Inside Mason's own BAD Brewing, a definite highlight of the trip.

Inside Mason’s own BAD Brewing, a definite highlight of the trip.

That tasty spot of lunch was the perfect way to tide me over until a post-wedding rehearsal stop at another highly regarded craft beer spot, the Lansing Brewing Company. It’s made major waves in the local craft beer scene for reinvigorating the city’s hops culture, and its three signature brews — including the cleverly named Angry Mayor IPA — do a fine job of holding down the fort alongside a rotating seasonal selection. From the Best Coast Pale Ale to the Ain’t No Drama Imperial Red, it’s representative of the atmosphere and quality of Michigan’s best breweries — and Lansing Brewing is just getting started (if you couldn’t tell, I’m a big craft beer fan). For the rehearsal itself and that much-loved trip to the brewery, I switched out my Richer Poorer pocket tee for a reliable favorite, my JackThreads Denim Shirt — it’s the perfect casual summer outfit topper, and it’s selling fast. It was my own slight variation on how to dress for a warm-weather bar crawl, if you will.

Sharp Saturday style. Slub Nep Jersey Polo by Grayers. Stringer Dune Shorts by Bridge & Burn. Daily Classic Nylon Sneakers from the Reebok x JackThreads collab. Brown leather watch by MVMT Watches. Scout Wallet by Andar Wallets. Leather bracelet by Bryer Leather.

Sharp Saturday style. Slub Nep Jersey Polo by Grayers. Stringer Dune Shorts by Bridge & Burn. Daily Classic Nylon Sneakers from the Reebok x JackThreads collab. Brown leather watch by MVMT Watches. Scout Wallet by Andar Wallets. Leather bracelet by Bryer Leather.

That casual style was similarly needed on Saturday for a bit of pre-wedding time spent around downtown Mason once again. To meet the summertime heat of Michigan in style, I threw on my trusty Grayers Slub Jersey Polo and my tailored-yet-comfortable Bridge & Burn Stringer Dune Shorts (you can grab a similar pair here); I finished the #menswear ensemble off with two everyday carry touches — my MVMT Watches Brown Leather Watch and the Scout Wallet from Andar Wallets. The polo was breathable and soft,  and the blue & khaki colors played nicely off a really standout pair of sneakers — the Reebok x JackThreads Daily Classic Nylon is a heck of a pair of kicks! They’re new as of this week, and they feature a premium blend of pigskin suede in a retro runner silhouette that’s sporty, classic and timeless. Oh, and did I mention they’re comfortable as heck? They were a nice pair of sneakers for a bit of pre-wedding fun (and if I were you, I’d check back on this blog later this week for a full Style Pick of the Week feature).
Huckberry
That casual ensemble played nicely into the wedding, where I put the Johnston & Murphy Duvall Wingtip to good use with a slim grey tuxedo and classic navy tie. Enough about Saturday’s outfit, though — the wedding itself was extraordinary and the atmosphere was second-to-none. It was such a great time to be there for my friends Andy & Courtney (if you made it this far in the post, Hi guys!), and you couldn’t ask for a better venue than the refined English Inn. A beautiful ceremony and an awesome time with close high school friends thereafter were huge highlights and made for memories of a lifetime — the perfect time and reason to be back in Michigan. It’s tough to see everyone in one place at the same time, to be sure, so I’m certainly glad I made the trip back.

Crisp classics for Sunday travel. White Oxford by Todd Shelton. Slim chinos by Old Navy. Duvall Wingtips by Johnston & Murphy. Notebook by Word Notebooks. Mod Watch by Timex x Todd Snyder.

Crisp classics for Sunday travel. White Oxford by Todd Shelton. Slim chinos by Old Navy. Duvall Wingtips by Johnston & Murphy. Notebook by Word Notebooks. Mod Watch by Timex x Todd Snyder.

With that being said, a quick trip often calls for a quick turnaround, and such was the case after a long night of revelry at the English Inn. To head back to New York — and finish up the blog post — I reached for reliable travel style essentials. My Todd Shelton White Oxford was chief among those picks — there might not be as reliable or high-quality an Oxford on the market, what with customizable fit options, a substantial fabric and a tailored fit. I wore it casually with a pair of Old Navy Slim Khakis, plus the sharp, travel-ready Johnston & Murphy Duvall Wingtip. Of course, my Timex x Todd Snyder Mod Watch was a necessary finishing touch. Like many recent travels, it was so worth it to be back — long journey, early flight and all. I know I’ll be back in the Mitten for at least one Michigan State football game this fall, but for now, I’m just grateful to have celebrated a great wedding weekend with lifelong friends. And it’s trips like this one that will take me out on the road again. Keep up with those travels here on the blog or at The Style Guide Facebook page, and I hope you pack up your bag with memories (and OK, some style) in mind the next time you travel.

‘Til the next post,

-Beau
Frank & Oak

Buck Mason - Timeless Design. Made in America.

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: OLIVERS Capital Short

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.

The Capital Short in action, paired up with the Convoy Tee. Photo courtesy of OLIVERS Apparel.

The Capital Short in action, paired up with the Convoy Tee. Photo courtesy of OLIVERS Apparel.

With so many hot, hot days rolling through August, it can be pretty difficult to figure out what to wear. At least in NYC, there’ve been times these past few weeks where it’s only suitable for a tank top and shorts. But what’s a guy to do when he wants to look sharp and presentable in the heat — yet maybe still wearing shorts? Easy. I present to you the OLIVERS Capital Short.  Although there’s not that much time left in August — and we’ll soon be into fall — it still pays to figure out ways to stay cool and look sharp no matter how hot it gets. I learned that all too well this past week, as I headed out to Las Vegas for three days of the renowned Liberty Fairs menswear trade show. It was fun, it was hectic and it was, needless to say, very hot. Thankfully, the OLIVERS Capital Short worked out more than fine for a long day of travel on Sunday, and navigating the city thereafter. Of course, that made ’em more than worthy of inclusion as this week’s Style Pick of the Week — and that makes ’em more than worthy of your hard-earned dollars and time. More often than not, you need pieces that work with you, and move with you, in the heat. That’s where the OLIVERS Capital Short is so impressive. And if you’re not familiar, I’d suggest you acquaint yourself accordingly.

The brand has built a following for the way they blend technical fabrics — like the nylon-polyester  blend of the Capital Short — with tailored silhouettes fit for the modern man. That goes for the brand’s Movement Kit, which was introduced earlier this year and includes the Capital Short. And pieces like the brand’s All Over Short further that mission, with neutral colors, trim fits and the versatility to be worn individually for everything from Sunday brunch to a trip to the beach. These shorts extend that mission — they feature all the bells and whistles of your favorite pair of chino shorts, including a tailored fit, belt loops (unheard of on athletic-blend shorts) and small details like side and rear welt pockets; it’s those sorts of touches that make these shorts wearable right now with a slim summer polo . They’d also be a wise packing addition on your next global road trip — seriously, they’re that comfortable and move that well. Pair them up with a slim white polo and leather loafers for a look that’s bit more preppy, or rock them with a slim pocket tee and your favorite pair of classic white sneakers the rest of the summer. Just don’t leave them in your drawer for too long — they’re a warm-weather essential.

Would you rock the Capital Shorts? How would you style them? Chime in on the discussion on Twitter!

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: Fall Sneakers, Liberty Fairs and Exploring Chicago with Wilco’s Jeff Tweedy

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.  

If this week wasn’t one of the quickest-moving weeks of the year, it sure felt like it — you ever have those weeks? It was a thrilling and exciting one though, as I spent time in Las Vegas for Liberty Fairs, an extensive and enjoyable menswear trade show that puts the latest and greatest menswear (in this case, for spring 2017) on display. I was able to explore the city in style and catch up with some great brands — of note, keep an eye on Crosby Square and these excellent denim chukkas featuring a casual crepe sole — it was just one of many stellar styles on display from the brand. Additionally, the folks at Jack Mason — a new Style Guide favorite — are in the business of making versatile, sturdy watches inspired by everything from nautical to aviation timepieces of old. It’s fitting that it took a trip all the way to Vegas to find out about them. My time on the road isn’t done yet, as more travel is in the cards today. I’m heading back to Michigan for my great friend Andy’s wedding weekend as we speak! Look for a full #menswear post in that regard coming Monday.

Are you hitting the road yourself this weekend? If a trip to Chicago is in the cards, I’d highly recommend you check out the excellent, engaging Chicago Field Guide put together by the great folks at Huckberry in partnership with Wilco frontman Jeff Tweedy. It’s a very neat and personal way to get a glimpse of Chicago as seen by Tweedy, and the product featured in the post is pretty cool, too — seriously, those Iron Rangers from Red Wing Heritage are a site to behold. Again, check it out here. And in the meantime, keep up with the week in menswear news and product launches below, and follow along with my daily outfits and menswear adventures on Instagram or Twitter.

  • Buying denim can be tricky sometimes, right? That is, it can be tough to find the right inseam length, and even then, you might have to roll or cuff ’em quite a bit to get the right fit. Not so with Scale Denim, a new made-in-the-USA denim brand that just launched on Kickstarter. They offer seven scaled, proportional inseams in relation to your waist size, and they do so when other premium denim brands might not have you taken care of.  Expect those to ship later this winter if you do back them.
  • We’ve got more Kickstarter news coming at you — if you  prefer a unique, premium Singapore-designed, Swiss-made watch, check out what the folks at Jubileon are doing with the Superellipse Watch. It features an eye-catching cushion-shaped design, a 39mm case diameter and the kind of refined look that can be tricky to find without dropping a grand. Yet, if you back it now, you get the Superellipse for just over $500 — quite the deal when you look at it.
  • Although it still feels like we’re dealing with an intense August heat wave, Esquire.com is already looking toward the best sneakers to buy for fall — know that this site will be pulling together a roundup of fall’s best high-top sneakers later on in September! Stay tuned.

Need something else to read?

  • If you’ve been looking to add a subtle bracelet or cuff — or a handsome watch — to your arsenal of accessories, look no further than Miansai’s fall menswear, as I covered for The Manual.

So, that’s all we’ve got on the menswear news front this week — check back tomorrow for our weekly Style Pick, and stay tuned for more menswear travel coverage on Monday!

Stay stylish,

-Beau