Month / December 2016

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Flint and Tinder Texas Moleskin Shirt

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.

Quite possibly your new favorite winter shirt ... give it a try now.

Quite possibly your new favorite winter shirt … give it a try now.

OK, ready for the first Style Pick of the Week of 2017? Better be. The fine folks at Flint and Tinder have practically become an everyday go-to on The Style Guide (and in real life) for the brand’s blend of classic style, durability, functionality and plain old utility. From the much-loved Flannel-Lined Waxed Trucker Jacket to the brand’s essential, comfortable Marled Henley Collection, you could practically outfit yourself head-to-toe in just F&T product. You’ll see more of this shirt in the coming weeks, but know that for now, the Flint and Tinder Texas Moleskin Shirt is another similarly versatile, excellent and well-made offering for your consideration (like, big-time consideration). Let’s start with the best part — it’s constructed in Texas at a family-owned factory, so you’re supporting quality production. And on the style end of the spectrum, everything’s coming up roses, too. A moleskin shirt is a bit unique — and that’s a great way to switch up your wardrobe. While the fabric is typically turned into excellent trousers this time of year, it’s time to shake it up and acquaint your top half with the useful, warm and flattering Moleskin Shirt — sold by the excellent folks at Huckberry , of course.

A unique color and the same great construction you've come to expect from Flint and Tinder and Huckberry.

A unique color and the same great construction you’ve come to expect from Flint and Tinder and Huckberry.

Available in a classic Navy color as seen at the top, the shirt also comes in a more unique Coffee color  or a cool Grey option, each made with the best fabric, construction and fit you can buy. The Coffee shirt in particular would nicely offset slim grey chinos and lighter brown boots — lest you’re wary of hanging up your favorite blue shirts. The fabric is, according to the brand, heavyweight, durable and tough — it’d be the perfect shirt to layer under a selvedge denim chore coat for a monochromatic look, or atop a long-sleeve henley for rugged style.  Although it’s got a classic button-down collar and chest pocket, just like your favorite Oxford, this shirt could feasibly serve as a shirt or a jacket depending on the frightful weather outside. The tailored fit should make it flattering to wear both tucked in and untucked — so you should feel free to try a bit of high-low style with rugged leather boots and perhaps … the Flint and Tinder 365 Pant? Told ya we loved us some Flint and Tinder on the blog. Of course, price should remain a consideration in any of your #menswear shopping endeavors — and for a shirt that’s USA-made, you can hardly get a better price than $89. Seriously, under $100 for a domestically made, warm, durable and versatile shirt? That’s as good as it gets when it comes to style upgrades for the new year.

How would you style the Flint and Tinder Texas Moleskin Shirt? Will it be joining your wardrobe anytime soon?
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by Beau H.

The Friday Read: New Year’s Resolutions, New Watches and the Best Albums of 2016

First things first, thanks so much for joining us for the last Friday Read of 2016. It’s been a pleasure keeping this series going on The Style Guide throughout the year — there’s been travel style, there’s been a dose of healthy dose of live music and hopefully, you’ve found some of these #menswear tips and tricks handy.  On the second-to-last day of the year, I’m reflecting on all the great things I’ve been fortunate to experience during another full calendar year in NYC (which can feel like a pretty big accomplishment, sometimes). I explored Brooklyn and Manhattan, traveled up and down the East coast this fall, made it back to visit family and friends for a weekend in my home state of Michigan, and met lots of great people through the menswear industry all the while surrounded by amazing family (and plenty of trips back to the Sunshine State) — that’s about as much as you can ask for. To top it off with a relaxing few days in Florida and New York City is as good as it gets. I hope you get the chance to reflect in a similar fashion while enjoying the rest of the year (and New Year’s Eve) in style. I just wrapped up a holiday trip to Florida and I’m spending today prepping for 2017 — if that’s the case for you as well, get some casual #OOTD tips for New Year’s Day and of course, get a jump start on your weekend with the last Friday Read of the year. 

  • You can expect a full set of men’s style resolutions for the year ahead on this blog early next week, but for now, let’s see what 2017 lifestyle resolutions the folks at GQ.com are offering up this year.
  • Who doesn’t love a well-constructed, essential and sharp watch? The Armogan Le Mans Chronograph  — sold by our friends at Huckberry — is the one to buy — and it’s among my latest posts for GearMoose! It’s among the sharpest watches I’ve seen this year, without a doubt.
  • While we’re talking about the best of 2016, you really should read The Manual’s list of the best albums of 2016, as written by my digital colleague, Terence Praet.
  • Oh, and one last thing — if you’re spending the next few days rooting for your favorite team in a New Year’s Day college football bowl game, refresh yourself on how to dress for football season, will ya?

We’re keeping it short today — there’s much to be done before the New Year! I hope you’ll join us for the last Style Pick of 2016 tomorrow — and then we’re onto bigger and better things in 2017!

Stay stylish and thanks so much for reading this year! More to come — onward.

-Beau

by Beau H.

Style Suggestion: What to Wear on New Year’s Eve

As 2016 draws to a (thankful?) close, it seems that a slew of important days fall one right after the other this time of year — from Christmas Day to today’s important style suggestion — what to wear on New Year’s Eve. Of course, days like these are important for the chance to spend time with family and friends, but a night like New Year’s Eve is also important in terms of how you present yourself heading into the coming year. Too philosophical? Maybe. However, if you’ve been working on your men’s style resolutions, the night before 2017 is a good time to kick things off a bit early. And besides, who doesn’t relish the chance to get dressed up a bit and perhaps channel your inner James Bond? No one, that’s who. So today’s style suggestion covers a crisp and rather formal situation — we’re not going full-on black tie, to be sure, but if you’re a guy who doesn’t suit up all that often, don’t worry; there’s something for everyone in this style suggestion. From a classic dress watch to a well-made suit jacket, consider your New Year’s Eve style all set. To weigh in on these picks, head to the friendly Style Guide Facebook page, and let’s connect on Twitter.
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The Topcoat and Scarf: JackThreads Tieman Topcoat — $149 AND J. Crew Cashmere Scarf — $98
Refined and relatively affordable accessories for a chilly yet dressy night.

Refined and relatively affordable accessories for a chilly yet dressy night.

You might recognize the above JackThreads topcoat from our holiday party style suggestion, and given the mixture of quality and affordability, it’s the right outerwear pick for a refined occasion like New Year’s Eve. The camel color and double-breasted cut are unique and on-trend yet still classic, and the topcoat will slip easily over the rest of your ensemble. The J. Crew cashmere scarf  is quite pricey for an accessory, but it’s a classic, versatile piece that you can use season after season — plus, it looks a little cleaner and sharper than a patterned scarf. Need black leather gloves to finish off the look? Might I suggest these black leather sheepskin Hestra gloves? Give ’em a try.

A versatile, tailored jacket that'll spiff up your New Year's Eve ensemble.

A versatile, tailored jacket that’ll spiff up your New Year’s Eve ensemble.

Yet again, we’re going with another pick from our holiday party style suggestion — a classic, rich wool jacket like the Taylor Stitch Telegraph Jacket  is sharp and versatile enough that you can certainly wear it multiple times in the same season, with or without the matching Telegraph Trousers. It’s a slim-fitting, well-made piece that’s appropriate for a dressy New Year’s Eve — it’s not a shawl collar tuxedo by any means, but when matched with a crisp white shirt and a textured tie (more in a second), it’ll outshine any ill-fitting black suits that might be in the crowd. And no one wants to be the guy in the poorly tailored suit, right?

The Shirt: J. Crew Factory Thompson Dress Shirt in White — $34.50

A crisp, clean white dress shirt for a great price.

A crisp, clean white dress shirt for a great price.

When you’re putting some money into your outerwear, accessories and jacket, you don’t have to necessarily overdo it on the shirting front. In this instance, that means you can snag a heck of a versatile white dress shirt at a heck of a bargain. J. Crew Factory offers up nearly the same quality as J. Crew, and they’ve become a favorite for style on a budget for that very reason. This is a workweek workhorse and a shirt that can more than pull its weight in a formal ensemble given the slim fit and crisp construction.

The Accessories: Ties.com Burgundy Brussels Plaid Tie — $20 AND Ties.com Blue Hunter Paisley Pocket Square — $10

Two accessories that mix seasonal textures and colors.

Two accessories that mix seasonal textures and colors.

As mentioned above, this isn’t a traditional black tie look. So, slightly unique accessories fit the bill nicely here while adding a touch of refinement and seasonal texture to the sharp Taylor Stitch Telegraph Jacket . The burgundy wool tie changes things up from a standard black or navy knit tie (although either would work well here). It’s slim, to match the width of those lapels, and it’ll complement the paisley blue pocket square thanks to the red-and-brown color combo. A more standard white pocket square would also work in this case, but the paisley pattern adds some nice visual interest.

A reliable alternative to plain charcoal trousers, made with a hint of stretch fabric.

A reliable alternative to plain charcoal trousers, made with a hint of stretch fabric.

Skeptical about spending more than $120 on a pair of pants? Bear with me. JACHS NY mixes a nice blend of heritage and modern sportswear with sharp tailoring, resulting in a pair of tailored herringbone pants that call to mind vintage style. These trousers mix cotton herringbone with a hint of stretch and a seriously sharp windowpane pattern — they’ll handsomely accent the smaller-scale plaid pattern on the tie. And the navy color will play nicely off the grey wool Telegraph Jacket — think of this as the smart-casual alternative to a full tuxedo. Oh, and those suspender buttons are handy if you own a pair –but those belt loops will come in handy … just stick around until the end of the style suggestion, ehh?

The Shoes: Johnston & Murphy Waverly Wingtip — $175

An ultra-crisp pair of classic dress shoes -- just what you need for New Year's Eve.

An ultra-crisp pair of classic dress shoes — just what you need for New Year’s Eve.

Now, we certainly love our rugged brown leather boots here at The Style Guide — but every man needs a pair of classic dress shoes that work for formal situations. In this instance, that’s the gap in your footwear wardrobe that the Waverly Wingtip fills. The razor-sharp combination of a wingtip and black leather speaks to tailored style, yet it’s not as formal as a pair of black patent leather shoes. You could always reach for a pair of classic black captoe shoes, but again, the wingtip’s heftier look plays well with the wool jacket and textured windowpane trousers.

The Watch: Orient Bambino 2nd Generation Watch — $199.98

A well-made, well-designed and timeless dress watch for under $200.

A well-made, well-designed and timeless dress watch for under $200.

If we’re going with classic men’s dress shoes in sharp black leather, you need an equally sharp black leather dress watch. So, what better timepiece to pick up than the well-made, crisp and timeless Orient Bambino 2nd Generation Watch? And the even better news? It’s a relative steal for under $200. Plus, it features a new-and-improved in-house movement and a sturdy stainless steel case that’s offset nicely by the formal black leather strap. In short, it’s a heck of a watch that’ll work in occasions both formal *cough, New Year’s Eve, cough* and casual (try it with a slim pocket tee and light wash denim in the spring — seriously).
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Just as every man needs a pair of classic leather dress shoes and a classic dress watch, so too does every man need a slim black leather dress belt. Like the cashmere scarf pictured at the top of this post, the black leather dress belt in question is quite pricey compared to a budget option. Yet, this is a dress belt that’s going to see a ton of use if you happen to suit up a lot. And in this case, it’s refined and not ostentatious — just what you need in a dress belt.
USA-made socks that offset the rest of this formal ensemble quite nicely.

USA-made socks that offset the rest of this formal ensemble quite nicely.

The American Trench brand tends to be the go-to sock of choice around these parts, and if you’re not familiar with the brand, I’d encourage you to stock up just as soon as you can.  Because no detail is too small in matters of men’s style, American-made socks are a bit of a luxury upgrade to typical, thinner dress socks sold in a four-pack — right? The Random Plait Sock in Smoke brings some nice, winter-friendly texture to your bottom half, and the color plays nicely off both the navy herringbone trousers and the sharp black wingtips.

Frank & Oak

So, we’ve got you covered right down to your socks for New Year’s Eve. Stick with classic-yet-modern pieces — like a beautiful cashmere scarf and a double-breasted topcoat, and you’ll be set on the accessories front. Accent those touches with the ever-versatile Taylor Stitch Telegraph Jacket , and throw in complementary trousers and a seasonally appropriate wool tie, and consider your top half set. Keep in mind that slim navy trousers will offset the grey wool jacket nicely, and know that you can never go wrong with crisp black wingtips and an heirloom-quality watch like the Orient Bambino 2nd Generation Watch. Of course, socks from American Trench are a great way to complement any look. Is this similar to what you’ll be wearing for New Year’s Eve? Leave any feedback in the comments below — oh, and enjoy your own New  Year’s Eve! You can look for our regularly scheduled Friday Read later this week, too; in the meantime, stay stylish and bring on 2017!

by Beau H.

#OOTD: How to Layer Up This Winter

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.

So, first things first — I hope y’all had a great Christmas. I know I enjoyed spending mine with family in lovely, sunny Florida (you can check out the full trip recap here). And with that being said, it’s time to get back to dressing for a decidedly colder NYC winter — perhaps it’s chilly where you are as well, and if that happens to be the case, well … The Style Guide is here to help with the latest entry in our #OOTD series. We’ve discussed casual cold-weather style moves this fall and winter, from dressing for a weekend coffee date to layering up with a crewneck sweater. The below #OOTD builds on that approach with a bit more tailored flair. It seems there re a myriad number of ways to go about dressing for a cold day — either on the weekend or during the week — but what about when you feel like mixing more formal pieces into a casual ensemble? Say, when dressing for Sunday brunch and a stroll around town, or a nightcap at your favorite local watering hole — times when you could wear jeans but, well, don’t quite feel like it. We’ve all been there, right? The below #OOTD mixes in picks that are both classic and casual, durable and slightly dressier. I won’t ruin all the fun, though — the entire #menswear ensemble is below. As always, your comments are appreciated and welcomed — seriously!

A mixture of rugged and refined pieces for winter layering.

A mixture of rugged and refined pieces for winter layering.

The Jacket: Grayers Montana Waxed and Quilted Parka, $225 — The jacket in this look — available via the fine folks at Huckberry — is exhibit A when it comes to a heritage-inspired, yet surprisingly versatile, piece. And if you live in a more temperate climate, the Taylor Stitch Rover Jacket also works in this instance.

The Shirt: JackThreads Plaid Poplin Shirt, $39 — The great folks at JackThreads do casual shirting as well as anyone in the business, and this slim-fitting plaid shirt provides a welcome pop of winter-friendly color. You could always throw on something like the Todd Snyder x Champion Pocket Sweatshirt if it’s particularly cold.

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The Pants: JACHS NY Navy Herringbone Suspender Pants, $125 — This is the part of the ensemble where high-low style comes into play — these nicely tailored cotton herringbone pants feature an eye-catching windowpane pattern that’s just different enough from the large plaid shirt to work.

The Belt: Tanner Goods Classic Belt in Hickory, $99.98 — First off, why a belt with suspender pants? Well, it’s nice to have the option, and not everyone owns a pair of suspenders — ya dig? And if you’re going to invest in a beautiful brown leather belt, one from Tanner Goods is the way to go.

The Boots: Thorogood Dodgeville Boots in Cognac, $375 — Maybe it’s just me, but I find it very hard to pass up a great pair of durable leather boots — and the Dodgeville Boots are equal parts handsome, tough and ready for situations both a bit dressier and more casual.

The Socks: United By Blue Ultimate American Sock, $29.98 — Lest we forget that it’s likely freezing outside when throwing on this outfit, you’re going to need tough, warm socks. The Ultimate American Sock  has all the comfort you need.

The Watch: Timex + Todd Snyder Red Wing Leather Chronograph, $158 — If you haven’t acquainted yourself with the ongoing Timex + Todd Snyder collaboration, this is a great time to start. This particular watch is tough, durable and handsome.

The Scarf: Abraham Moon for J. Crew Wool Scarf, $59.50 — Even right down to your accessories, you can add a few dressier touches. This beautiful plaid wool scarf plays nicely off the orange plaid shirt and the windowpane trousers — and it’s relatively affordable for the quality.

Frank & Oak

So, do you feel prepared to take on the cold? Maybe? Just a bit? I hope so. The key with dressing for cold winter days is mixing tried-and-true favorites with unique pieces — that is to say, it’s nice to be able to wear your favorite brown leather boots with something a bit more eye-catching, like the Grayers Montana Parka. Tough and rugged accessories like the reliable-as-heck United By Blue Ultimate American Socks are going to provide nice contrast to dressier pieces (like the J. Crew wool scarf), and you can hardly ever go wrong with a heritage-inspired leather watch from the likes of Todd Snyder. Don’t forget that you can mix and match these pieces during the work week, too — particularly the navy windowpane trousers. If you’ve got questions or feedback on this #OOTD, let’s hear it in the comments. Layer up and stay warm out there!

-Beau

by Beau H.

Fort Myers Festivities: Celebrating a Florida Christmas

Dressed for Christmas the Florida way. Printed shirt by Quiksilver. Chambray shorts by Canvas by Lands' End. Ripper Sneakers by Reef. Nautical 3-Hand Watch by Jack Mason. Glasses by Frameri.

Dressed for Christmas the Florida way. Printed shirt by Quiksilver. Chambray shorts by Canvas by Lands’ End. Ripper Sneakers by Reef. Nautical 3-Hand Watch by Jack Mason. Glasses by Frameri.

When the holiday season hits, I tend to think back to Thanksgiving and Christmas seasons spent in Michigan — who doesn’t love traditions of years gone by? With those memories in mind, it’s been a fun process the past three years to start new traditions in my parents’ adopted home of Fort Myers, and I always welcome the chance to escape the hustle and bustle of New York City for a warm and sunny Florida vacation. I traveled to Fort Myers last Christmas, and I get back every few months — including a recent visit for Thanksgiving — but it never gets old spending time in the sand and sun (especially when the alternative is dealing with a polar vortex in New York City).  Yes, the holiday season in Florida is always a treat, an adventure and a bit of a sight to behold — palm trees wrapped in Christmas lights looks a bit different. But it was great to be with family and friends, and I brought along as much stylish travel gear as I could pack.

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Gear fit for Florida and NYC. Jack in Indigo Star Shirt by Taylor Stitch. Kinzie Jeans by Mugsy Jeans. Academia Chariot Sneakers by Brooks Heritage. Watch by Timex for J. Crew. Explorer’s Cap by Huckberry. Wallet by Brothers Leather.

Surviving a frigid day in New York City and capping that off with a flight to breezy Florida is no joke, so I wore gear that could stand up to both challenges (the rest, I packed in my trusty, durable Owen & Fred weekender bag — but you knew that, right?). Of course, my packing list looked a lot different than my winter weekend in Baltimore, but I stuck with the ever-versatile Taylor Stitch Jack in Indigo Star Shirt,for starters. It’s as reliable and well-fitting of a casual shirt you can buy, and it provided a nice bit of contrast to my light wash Kinzie Jeans — they’re the perfect travel denim from Mugsy Jeans.
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For the day in NYC, I layered up with the heritage-inspired, ultra-comfortable Todd Snyder x Champion Pocket Sweatshirt, and accented the sporty sweatshirt with my comfortable and casual Brooks Academia Chariot Sneakers. They proved easy to slip on and off at the airport, and I’d wager they’ll work just as well for you the next time you travel. On the accessories front, I found my simple, effective (and unfortunately sold out!) Timex for J. Crew watch provided easygoing-yet-crisp travel style. And throughout my trip, I loved throwing on my vintage-inspired Huckberry Explorer’s Cap, a one-of-a-kind grey cotton flannel baseball cap with a navy felt “H” — for Huckberry, of course. So, that gear helped me make it to Florida in style — and it’s a good thing, as we had lots in store for Christmas weekend.

Looking out on a lovely day at Cayo Costa. Brando T-Shirt by Barking Irons. Swim Trunks by JackThreads. Gratton Sneakers by Fronteer. Expedition watch by Timex. Explorer's Cap by Huckberry. Runaway Aviators by MVMT Watches.

Looking out on a lovely day at Cayo Costa. Brando T-Shirt by Barking Irons. Swim Trunks by JackThreads. Gratton Sneakers by Fronteer. Expedition watch by Timex. Explorer’s Cap by Huckberry. Runaway Aviators by MVMT Watches.

Getting some quality time out and about on the Florida water was in order for an early Friday boat excursion through the waterways of Fort Myers, from Cayo Costa State Park to Cabbage Key — both scenic islands with ample beach space. I stuck with a combination of gear both new and old, starting with my durable-as-heck FRONTEER Super Gratton high-top sneakers. I wore them on my last Florida trip and found they provided comfort and serious durability. A breathable, vintage-inspired Barking Irons Brando G.I. T-Shirt, courtesy of the New York-based design and apparel company, helped me stay cool on the water. Inspired by infantry T-shirts from the Vietnam era, the little details — like the scalloped hem and raised sleeves — make it a great pick-up. Of course, my JackThreads Swim Trunks were just as needed for the day, with their trim fit and neutral navy color. And my crisp, classic Timex Expedition field watch  on a tough black NATO strap held up more than fine, as did my MVMT Watches Runaway Aviators and my stylish — yet adventure-ready — Huckberry Explorer’s Cap.

With a day of exploration behind us and Christmas Eve ahead, it was time to look to the weekend. I did so with a mix of pieces both tropical-inspired — like my Quiksilver Sunset Tunnels Shirt — and my Canvas by Lands’ End shorts. Those pieces worked easily for a nice Christmas Eve dinner and some much-needed time in the sun. It felt slightly odd to not be bundled up on Christmas Eve as in past years, but some subtly stylish, comfortable black canvas Reef Ripper Sneakers helped me navigate the day in style, as did my Jack Mason Nautical 3-Hand Watch on a warm weather-friendly blue perlon strap. The watch, like the black canvas sneakers, proved just as stylish for exploring sunny Fort Myers as it did for grabbing a few brews and enjoy my family’s traditions — a classic Christmas Eve film and a reading of “The Night Before Christmas.” Doesn’t get much better, ehh?

An amazing Christmas featuring some great men's style essentials (of course. Vintage-style cotton sweater by Hillflint. Book by Esquire. Chocolate by Toblerone.

An amazing Christmas featuring some great men’s style essentials (of course. Vintage-style cotton sweater by Hillflint. Book by Esquire. Chocolate by Toblerone.

With a delicious Christmas Eve dinner complete, I went to bed with visions of my #menswear wish list dancing in my head (indulge me, will you?).  I hope you were able to come through with key shopping pick-ups of your own, and I certainly wasn’t disappointed with what Santa left me under the tree this year. I was really lucky to get an amazing vintage Michigan State sweater from Hillflint — it’s a super-premium cotton knit piece that I’ll look forward to wearing on Saturday fall trips back to East Lansing and chilly weekends in NYC alike. I’m also looking forward to breaking out an amazingly high-quality Todd Snyder White Label dress shirt for New Year’s Eve, and I’ll be reminding myself of proper dress etiquette with Esquire’s “New Rules for Men,” a fun, informative and quick-hitting feature from the fantastic pages of the essential Hearst publication. I also snagged a great Ticketmaster gift card from Santa — so you can expect more live music and menswear in the coming year on the blog!  Needless to say, I’m definitely a fan of the Christmas season, and I’m very thankful for such a great day!

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Comfortable, crisp style essentials. Chambray shirt by Old Navy. Alpha Stretch Khakis by Dockers. Academia Chariot Sneakers by Brooks Heritage. Waterbury Chrono by Timex x Red Wing. Explorer’s Cap by Huckberry. 810 Wallet by Brothers Leather.

Given the need to put together a stylish New Year’s Eve outfit — not to mention those crucial menswear resolutions — I’m sure plenty of this gear will more than come in handy in the weeks ahead. Even moreso than those stellar gifts, it was a day that made me feel very lucky and grateful to spend it with my amazing family — that’s my true takeaway from this Florida trip (and of course, the added #menswear goodies will make it a bit hard to pack up for my flight home).  So with an overstuffed duffel bag packed for later this week, I reached for sharp essentials for another day today in Florida, starting with a classic Old Navy chambray shirt — casual but still crisp. And my Flint and Tinder Pocket T-Shirt proved a comfortable base layer. Because great style doesn’t stop with your top half, I reached for my slim-fitting, easily wearable Dockers Alpha Stretch Khakis and my  Brooks Academia Chariot Sneakers. When the occasion calls for simple style, I’d wager you’ll do just fine with similarly versatile, do-everything pieces like a classic chambray shirt and chinos.

So, what’s on the docket for the rest of the week? Definitely some rest, some reflection before 2017 and yes, plenty of planning for a stylish New Year’s Eve in New York City. You can stay tuned for business as usual tomorrow, starting with a winter style #OOTD, and continuing right on through to what to wear to ring in the new year via Wednesday’s style suggestion. Oh, and if you didn’t enter last week’s men’s lifestyle giveaway, do so before the 28th to win a Dick’s Sporting Goods gift card and get a jump on those fitness goals. At any rate, thanks so much for reading along — I hope you’ve had a stellar holiday season, and I hope you’re ready for lots more menswear on The Style Guide. Thanks, as always, for reading!

-Beau

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by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Brothers Leather Supply 810 Wallet

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.

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A durable, well-made wallet from the Michigan-based team at Brothers Leather Supply. Get 15 percent off all Brothers Leather goods with the code ‘BrotherBeau15’ until January 6th!

First of all, we’re wishing everyone a lovely Christmas Eve. Now, onto to business, shall we? The concept of small, daily style upgrades that make your life better is one that’s pretty big here at The Style Guide. Be it something more noticeable like the cut of your crewneck sweatshirt or the quality of your favorite waxed trucker jacket, looking to buy the best and use the best menswear out there is a fun — if taxing — pursuit. And that pursuit extends to your everyday carry — after all, building great style is a process that touches every aspect of your life (repeat that again, will ya?) I’m always looking for ways to improve my own style, and that’s why finding brands that make the search easier can be so fulfilling. Take Brothers Leather Supply — this brand first caught my eye during a summer trip back to Grand Rapids, when I had the chance to check out the Michigan company’s well-appointed storefront, as seen below.

My Grand Rapids trip this summer introduced me firsthand to a great leather goods brand.

My Grand Rapids trip this summer introduced me firsthand to the great leather goods brand that is Brothers Leather Supply.

And if you’ve been following me on Instagram, perhaps you’ve seen some of the stunning goods I’ve been testing out — including today’s Style Pick, the slim, useful and effective 810 Wallet.  We’ve talked in the past about upgrading your wallet, and if you’ve yet to do that, the 810 Wallet is an easy and effective way to check that off your list of men’s style resolutions before the new year even starts.  Whether you browse online or have the chance to visit the Brothers Leather Supply shop in Grand Rapids, I’d urge you to get up to speed on a brand that could steadily upgrade your accessories — in fact, you can use the code ‘BrotherBeau15’ to get 15 percent off any item, now through January 6th! Why should you do that? Read on, my fellow #menswear aficionados.

The 810 Wallet is made with full-grain Vechetta leather in a lovely medium tan-brown color — it’s supple, smooth leather that’ll age nicely over time. And for $75, you definitely get your money’s worth — although hey, that 15 percent discount looks pretty good, yes? The brand does you one better by offering your pick of personalized branding and leather conditioner, too. The striped, canvas-lined large back pocket is a neat design touch that’s complemented smartly by three easy-to-access slots on the left side, plus a larger slip pocket on the right side (complete with its own striped tab). Yes my friends, the 810 Wallet  ios a masculine, smart-looking wallet that slides easily in and out of slim dark denim or a trim wool overcoat — a bulky George Costanza wallet, this is not. And it should slide easily into your front suit jacket pocket the next time you suit up on a dressy day at the office. So, what’s not to love about (potentially) your go-to everyday wallet? I’d pick one up as quickly as possible, and I’d wager you’ll be surprised at how much lighter — and more stylish — your everyday carry can be.

Get 15 percent off the 810 Wallet — or any other Brothers Leather Supply good — using the code ‘BrotherBeau15’ now through January 6th. Stay stylish!

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: 2016’s Best Watches, Last-Minute Gifts and Holiday Travel Style

Check your watch, check your calendar, check this blog — we’re just two (TWO) days away from Christmas! It’s been a hectic week between my winter trip to Baltimore and some travel to sunny Florida, but I hope you’re en route to your holiday destination — and traveling in style, of course.  If you’ve slacked (big-time) on your gift buying, check out our women’s holiday gift guide and the requisite men’s holiday gift guide one final, last time. And right after we turn from Christmas, New Year’s Eve is upon us — to that end, we’ll cover what to wear on New Year’s Eve in the next few days. And we’ll be going through men’s style resolutions for 2017, too. If your resolutions include upgrading your workout gear, you’d do well to enter this site’s latest menswear giveaway. But back to business. It’s been great to reflect on a stellar year in NYC over the last few days; that includes the chance to build on my career in fashion PR, write this blog and pursue my passion through other great menswear sites like The Manual and GearMoose. We’re not done with the style content on this blog for 2016 yet — far from it. For now, I’ll leave you today with the best in men’s style — I hope you take care of your last-minute shopping, and more importantly, I hope you’ll join us for tomorrow’s Style Pick of the Week.  Now, get to it!

  • Whenever you talk about a  stylish, durable watch, it’s advisable to turn to the folks at GQ. Yes, they do make some questionable styling choices and hop on and off quite a few trends, but hey, GQ.com rounded up 2016’s best watches — and the list includes some stone-cold stunners, like the rugged Tudor Black Bay Bronze.
  • Let’s stay on the topic of GQ, shall we? The publication’s digital arm rounded up 16 holiday travel style favorites. Some of these picks are mighty premium — take the $840 AMI overcoat, for starters — but the premise is admirable. 16 items, a full set of outfits and some solid suggestions (denim-on-denim among them).
  • And on the topic of last-second shopping, if you’ve got someone on your list who values a touch of irreverent style and a bit of high-fashion — like an embroidered Levi’s denim jacket  — use the code ‘MERRY30’ to get 30!percent off almost everything online and in-store at Brooklyn’s own Kinfolk. Note that the deal excludes footwear, collaboration apparel & N. Hoollywood gear, but hey, there are plenty of picks from which to shop.

One last item to read …

  • Did you catch the launch of the slick new Taylor Stitch Minimalist Collection? It includes a bifold wallet and a slim cardholder, among other goods. They’re reasonably priced for investment-worthy leather pieces and feature the classic design that’s made Taylor Stitch so coveted among lovers of great menswear. Get the scoop via my latest GearMoose post.

Did that help you fill the time between holiday shopping sessions? Once more, check out the women’s style gift guide and shop our men’s style gift guide as quickly as you can.

Finally: Have a great day, and a great weekend!

-Beau
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by Beau H.

#OOTD: Dressing for a Casual Christmas

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.

OK, so we’re coming at you with a Thursday edition of the #OOTD series. Namely, we’re just a few days out from Christmas — that came up quick, yes? Hopefully, you turned to The Style Guide (or another one of your favorite menswear blogs?) to knock out your holiday shopping. Still need a gift for her? Fear not. Or maybe you want to add an item or two to your holiday men’s style wish list? Easy does it. Oh, and that leaves another crucial question — what are you going to wear for the occasion? Whether you’ve got one last holiday party to dress for or if you’re approaching the day with a bit more formality, we’ve got you covered when it comes to dressing for Christmas. And that’s why today’s #OOTD covers another potential holiday style scenario: the casual holiday. Maybe you’ll be spending the day at your house and venturing out later for a movie or a drink with friends, or perhaps you’re taking it easy while on a holiday trip over the river and through the woods– either way, dressing with some polish is key. We’re not talking about going overboard — leave the velvet dressing gown at home. No, we’re talking about a crisp, casual outfit that looks stylish, fits great and is a bit better-suited for venturing out in public than your pajamas. If you choose to stay in your PJs all day — hey, nothing wrong with that. But if you want to look a bit more cleaned up while still feeling comfortable? I’m your guy … or rather, the below #OOTD is the one to shop.  Chime in over on Twitter if you’ve got questions, additions or deletions when it comes to this look. Hit me up on Instagram if you want to see how I’m styling my Christmas Day #menswear picks, while we’re here.

Cozy, casual, comfortable and yet ... quite put-together.

Cozy, casual, comfortable and yet … quite put-together.

The Cardigan: Abercrombie & Fitch Belted Shawl Cardigan, $75 –We’re kicking things off with a really unique, effortlessly stylish sweater from the new and very improved Abercrombie & Fitch — the Camel color is eye-catching and pairs nicely with our other casual picks.

The T-Shirt: Barking Irons Brando Tee, $49 (2-Pack) — You could always reach for a classic chambray shirt if you wanted something a bit more cleaned up, but a textured cotton tee with unique design details — like a scalloped hem and slightly raised sleeves — is a cool, effortless pick.

The Denim: Mugsy Jeans Kinzie Denim, $98 — Who said denim has to be uncomfortable? Mugsy jeans are built with more room in the crotch and a ton of flexibility for a great — plus, the light wash is more casual, and these jeans look a bit more crisp than tailored sweats.

Beckett Simonon

The Watch: Timex + Todd Snyder Red Wing Leather Chronograph in Grey, $158 — Even if you’re just hanging around the house, it can be fun to throw on a stylish casual watch — especially one from Todd Snyder.

The Belt: J. Crew Factory Braided Leather Belt, $29.99 — Let’s keep it casual on the accessories front — a trusty braided leather belt is comfortable and mixes in some cold-weather texture.

The Socks: CHUP Churro Socks, $35 — Limited edition, nature-inspired prints on a comfortable pair of CHUP socks? Sign me up. They’re pricey, but very well-made and eye-catching — perfect holiday style, in short.

The Sneakers: SeaVees White Walls Mid-Cut Wintertide Sneaker, $98 — Sneakers in the winter? Yes, sir. You can always grab a pair of durable leather boots if snow is in the mix, but if it’s simply a bit chilly? These casual-yet-crisp mid-top sneakers are made with navy flannel fabric and blend right in with this ensemble.

The Grooming Kit: Harry’s Deluxe Truman Set, $35 — Just because it’s a casual Christmas doesn’t mean you shouldn’t get cleaned up a bit, ehh? This deluxe shaving set has everything you need to look great through the new year.

OK, we’ve got your unique, modern and comfortable belted cardigan, your classic T-shirt and slim stretch denim. Those are the building blocks of a nice cold-weather casual ensemble  in fall or winter, yet they work particularly well for lounging around — yet looking great — this holiday season. When you complement those pieces with a durable leather watch and a pair of premium patterned socks, you’re set with a look that’s versatile and sharp. Navy flannel sneakers are a unique finishing touch, too. Of course, putting in a little extra effort when it comes to winter grooming essentials is a solid move, too — and if you happen to be spending some time with your significant other on Christmas, they’ll appreciate it. How will you be dressing for a casual Christmas? Or do you still have some holiday shopping to finish up before you worry about what you’re wearing? Again, check out our women’s holiday gift guide for quick and easy picks.

Stay stylish and enjoy the season!

-Beau

by Beau H.

Style Suggestion: What to Wear on Christmas Day

So, it’s almost upon us — Christmas Day! Hopefully, you’ve found The Style Guide helpful this holiday season — if you’ve got another holiday party to dress for, or a last-second gift to buy for your wife, mom or grandma, best get that taken care of … ASAP. And know that between today and tomorrow, we’ll tackle two different Christmas style suggestions. Seriously, you shouldn’t neglect what to wear on Christmas Day, whether you’re traveling for the holiday season or hanging out at home. In fact, let’s consider this a style suggestion that works on Christmas Day itself or Christmas Eve with the family or friends. Because it’s an important — and likely chilly — day, we’re going with crisp, versatile picks from some Style Guide-approved brands.  It’s certainly coming up soon, so you best get going on what to wear — and again, what to gift. Lastly, I hope Santa brings you a few items on your menswear holiday wish list, ehh? I know I’ll be waiting expectantly — and enjoying the day with family, of course! Leave questions on this look for yours truly over on Twitter, and check out my own holiday style picks on Instagram. Cheers, dress well and enjoy the day!
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The Sweater: Life/After/Denim Waterloo Cardigan — $148

An easygoing-yet-crisp cardigan ideal for layering in cold weather.

An easygoing-yet-crisp cardigan ideal for layering in cold weather.

Like other prep-inspired brands that offer modern takes on the classics, Life/After/Denim gets a lot right when it comes to essential pieces ready for any situation. The Waterloo Cardigan, while pricey, is a fine example of this approach — the shawl collar is a masculine, casual styling detail that makes it perfect for layering over everything from an essential chambray shirt to a classic Oxford. And if you’re worried about getting chilly? Don’t skimp on those stylish winter accessories or a slim topcoat — especially the topcoat.

The Shirt: Penfield Ridgley Shirt — $115

Unexpected, textured fabric and a classic cut make this shirt an easy Christmas style pick.

Unexpected, textured fabric and a classic cut make this shirt an easy Christmas style pick.

Made with flecked brushed cotton for comfort and easy layering, the Penfield Ridgley Shirt is the perfect go-between in terms of casual style. The Ridgley Shirt isn’t quite as crisp as a white Oxford, so it’s more appropriate for a casual Christmas spent hanging out with family. And if you do head out for a nice Christmas Eve dinner, it moves through to those situations with ease.

The comfort and warmth of sweatpants with the tapered cut of versatile corduroys.

The comfort and warmth of sweatpants with the tapered cut of versatile corduroys.

Because you’ll be spending time around the fire or in the living room, comfort is essential — and goes hand-in-hand (or leg-in-leg?) with this pair of crisp, stylish Corduroy Jeans. With the warmth of Uniqlo’s HeatTech built in,
these corduroys feature a tapered, clean cut and the type of versatility you’d get from a pair of dark blue denim — yet, they look a bit more polished and ready for the holiday season and beyond. What’s more, the outstanding price simply can’t be beat — can it?

The Belt: Tanner Goods Classic Belt in Hickory — $99.98

Your new favorite belt -- maybe, just maybe.

Your new favorite belt — maybe, just maybe.

So, although this is a rather casual Christmas style suggestion, we’re still going with a sharp, well-made and yes, pricey Tanner Goods belt . If there’s such a thing as a handsome belt, the Classic Belt is that piece. It’s a beautiful shade of Hickory leather that will only age better over time, and it’s made right here in America. Of course, the Classic Belt will become your everyday belt in no time.

The Watch: Timex + Todd Snyder Red Wing Leather Chronograph in Grey — $158

A handsome watch that blends the rugged and the refined with ease.

A handsome watch that blends the rugged and the refined with ease.

Does it get any better than a handsomely designed, rugged leather watch from Timex & Todd Snyder? In short, the answer is no. The partnership between the lauded American designer and the classic U.S. watch brand only seems to get better and better with every season, from the much-coveted Timex x Todd Snyder Mod Watch to the latest iteration.  Made with tough, yet supple, Red Wing leather in an unexpected shade of grey, the contrasting black case and grey dial make a very sharp, versatile combination.

The Boots: Nisolo Emilio Chukka Boot — $149.98

Comfortable, appropriately casual and ready for unwrapping plenty of presents.

Comfortable, appropriately casual and ready for unwrapping plenty of presents.

Don’t think for a second we forgot about those stylish leather boots you’re going to need this Christmas. Why chukka boots? Well, the higher cut, tougher construction and slip-free heel cap on this sharp pair of Nisolo chukka boots gives you the type of functionality you need for getting from car to house (and back) across the snowy driveway. Crucially, the Emilio Chukka Boot  is going to work well for both a laidback Christmas evening and perhaps a nightcap drink at a holiday party. You feel me on that? Good.

The Socks: CHUP Prairie Socks — $35
Well-made, super stylish socks -- much better than plain old white socks, ehh?

Well-made, super stylish socks — much better than plain old white socks, ehh?

We’re sticking with unique, visually interesting CHUP socks — sold by the fine folks at Huckberry  — in this case, because every pair of durable leather chukka boots deserves great socks. Inspired by unique Native American prints, the CHUP Prairie Socks still manage to feel holiday-ready because of the unique blend of red, green and blue. What’s another benefit of spending more than $30 on socks? Other than the major style points and top-level durability, these CHUP socks look great if you do slip off your shoes at your host’s house. And on that note…

 Gift for the Host: Pappy Barrel-Aged Maple Syrup — $40

A smart guest always brings a gift -- and it helps that this syrup is aged in whiskey barrels.

A smart guest always brings a gift — and it helps that this syrup is aged in whiskey barrels.

We’re closing out this Christmas style suggestion with a wise move that’s unrelated to menswear — bringing a gift for  the host. Whether you’re traveling in style to stay with your significant other’s parents or heading over to a friend’s house to celebrate the holiday, a delicious gift like the one here is a pretty unique way to say thank you.  Pappy Van Winkle’s barrel-aged maple syrup truly is one-of-a-kind.

Alright, all set for the big day (or days)? Last-minute Christmas gifts all bought? Of course they are (wink, wink). Getting dressed for Christmas doesn’t have to be a taxing, overdone affair — it’s simply a matter of picking out great-fitting, well-made essentials built for comfort and style. From warm corduroys with a hint of stretch to a sharp shawl-collar cardigan and casual cotton shirt, your ensemble should move with you and fit right in for the festivities ahead. Stylish Nisolo leather chukka boots get the job done in terms of functionality and fashion, as does a pair of well-made socks.  And, you very well might not want to take off that handsome Timex + Todd Snyder Chronograph the rest of this year. Round it out with a great gift for the host, and consider yourself set for a very stylish and merry Christmas.

Wherever you might be headed this holiday season, thanks for reading, travel safe and as always — stay stylish!

-Beau

Huckberry

by Beau H.

Reader Giveaway Opportunity: Dick’s Sporting Goods Fitness Gear

Editor’s note: Thanks to XShadyside Personal Trainers Pittsburgh for sponsoring today’s post. Thanks for reading, and win a Dick’s Sporting Goods gift card by commenting on this post — more details below!

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Ready to hit the gym? Perhaps with some stylish workout gear? Shirt by QOR. Shorts by Strongbody Apparel. Sneakers by Athletic Propulsion Labs.

First of all, bear with me today as we switch gears — somewhat — from fashion to fitness on The Style Guide. Does it feel strange to be approaching the end of the year? At least for your local menswear author, it’s definitely a  bit of an odd feeling. Just yesterday, I was sitting down to write the 2016 Men’s Style Resolutions post and well, now, it’s onto 2017! It’s been a heck of a fun year writing this blog, so thanks for reading along. As it were, there are plenty of style upgrades I’m looking to make in the new year — perhaps you’re in the same situation — but there are other goals I’ve got in mind, too. Certainly, staying in shape and staying healthy just helps your clothes fit that much better — and it helps with how you feel day-to-day on top of that. And while I don’t pound the pavement on nightly runs or pound out quite as many push-ups as I’d like, it’s something I’m resolving to do more of in the new year. Just as with upgrading your apartment or upgrading your footwear collection, those little steps are important — and they can make a big difference at the end of the day! It’s all in the details.

With that said, it’s lucky for you and me both that today’s giveaway is more fitness-minded than solely focused on #menswear — you’ve got the chance to win a $25 Dick’s Sporting Goods gift card, courtesy of XShadyside Personal Trainers Pittsburgh. Maybe, like me, you’re not based in the Pittsburgh area — if you are however, you might recognize that name. Either way, the big thing here is the prize — a helpful amount that can go toward anything you might need to jumpstart your workout game next year. We’ve talked, of course, about how to dress for the gym, so consider this prize a potential way to upgrade your gym look and provide a bit more motivation for pumping out some extra reps. Now, onto the important stuff — how to win this prize? You can either A) Simply comment on this post with a link to what you’d buy with the card (that easy!) — and know that you’ve got until December 31st to enter! Thanks for reading, and good luck!

Editor’s note: This giveaway ends at 12 a.m. on Wednesday, December 28th.

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