#OOTD: Rugged Winter Style

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.

Every once in a while, you just want to mix up your style — right? Maybe if you’re a guy who frequently suits up , you feel compelled to dress down off-duty. Even if you find yourself dressing in business casual style for the office — rather than a suit — it still pays to have a few go-to, off-the-clock looks on-hand. And when you throw in the dual challenges of navigating winter weather while looking sharp, it adds another piece to the puzzle. That’s what we’re tackling today — we’ll get a bit out of the box in terms of classic winter style and go just a tad more casual and a tad more rugged. The basic building blocks of a crisp winter ensemble are still there — starting with classic dark denim and tough leather boots — but the way in which the outfit builds from the ground up will hopefully get you thinking about ways to refresh your style this year. Intrigued yet? Check out the full #OOTD below, and join us on Instagram and Facebook for more #menswear content, 24/7.

Layering up a shawl cardigan for rugged winter style -- as the post title implies.

Layering up a shawl cardigan for rugged winter style — as the post title implies.

The Cardigan: Iron & Resin Fletcher Cardigan,$110.98 — Here at the dear old Style Guide, we sure do love a shawl-collar cardigan. And seeing as this one is available via Huckberry in a warm cotton-fleece blend, it’s worth the buy. You could always add a crisp, functional Outerknown parka if you need an extra layer.

The Henley: Bonobos Slub Jersey Henley in Off-White Microstripe, $55 — Shawl-collar cardigan? Check. Rugged henley? Check. It’s as classic and comfortable of a winter style combo as it gets.

The Scarf: S.N.S Herning Torso Scarf, $96.60 — Nearly a hundred bucks is a lot to drop on a scarf — but when it provides significant warmth and style to rival that of the revered Daniel Craig in “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo,” it’s worth doing.

The Denim: Nudie Jeans Grim Tim Denim, $124.98 —  Whether you consider yourself a rock star or not, there’s something to be said for owning a slick, slim pair of black denim. The Grim Tim is that pair — and they’re a nice way to switch it up from dark indigo selvedge, too.

The Boots: G.H. Bass Buxton Boots, $425 — We talk a lot about investment-worthy purchases that convey great style and timeless appeal — the G.H. Bass Buxton Boots are one such purchase, and they add a bit of a unique contrast to the black denim.

The Socks: Wigwam Merino Lite Hiker Socks, $12.98 — Sometimes, you just need comfortable, functional socks that fight the chill — if that’s the case, pick up a couple pairs of these Merino Lite Hiker Socks.

The Watch: Standard Issue Instruments Pilot Mission Timer, $199.98 — Yet another standout piece of gear sold by Huckberry, the Pilot Mission Timer is tough, practical and rugged. Don’t worry about the black strap-brown boots color combo — it works in this casual ensemble.

The Hat: Columbiaknit Watch Cap, $17 — Just like the Merino Lite Hiker Socks, functionality and warmth is sometimes the name of the game. This cap is more than fairly priced, too.

The Gloves: Hestra Granvik Gloves, $180 — They might not be pictured in the above grid, but that doesn’t mean you don’t need reliable, tough winter gloves — Hestra is the place to go in this case.
Frank & Oak

Alright, let’s bundle up and get out there this winter. When you start with well-fitting basics — like a slub jersey henley — and add a tough-yet-comfortable Iron & Resin shawl-collar cardigan, you’ve got the foundation of a warm winter outfit.  In fact, it’s this very outfit that I frequently find myself wearing when it’s chilly. At any rate, slim black denim and rough-and-tumble leather boots are essentials in any season, especially cold weather, and the overlooked details — like warm winter socks and a nice winter hat — are just as critical to keep in mind before you step outside. And if it’s a new watch you need, something as functional and dependable as the  Pilot Mission Timer should get you where you’re going with plenty of time to spare. Any questions? Comments? Feedback? Let me know in the comments below!

Stay warm out there and thanks for reading,

-Beau

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New York State of Mind: A birthday weekend in Brooklyn

Editor’s note: Click here to check out my last personal style post.

saturday-option-2a-edited

Essential birthday weekend gear — and a birthday Bloody Mary, to boot! Maritime Submariner Jacket by Taylor Stitch. Indigo Plaid Oxford and Flannel-Lined Chinos by Abercrombie & Fitch. Sutter Boots by CAT Footwear. Waterbury Chronograph by Timex x Red Wing Heritage. Socks by Anonymous-ism. Glasses by Frameri.

It’s been some time since we stepped away from our  regularly scheduled programming to cover a bit of personal style from your Style Guide author, but this weekend seemed a fitting chance to get out with great new gear.  Namely, it was my birthday on Saturday (thanks for all the love, folks!), and a four-day weekend was in order! Unlike Michael Scott, I didn’t bring in donuts to the office for my own day.  However, I did get the chance to hit up my favorite spots in Brooklyn, spend time with great friends and test out some new #menswear from the likes of JackThreads, Abercrombie & Fitch and more (thanks for the gifts, family!).  And any time I get the chance to get out of the office and enjoy some time off, it’s always much welcomed. So if you didn’t follow along on Instagram … here’s what went down.

Essential Friday style. Munro Leather Biker Jacket by JackThreads. Scarf by S.N.S. Herning. 505C Denim by Levi's. Kimbo Chelsea Boots also by JackThreads. Red Wing Leather Watch by Timex x Todd Snyder. Glasses by Frameri.

Essential Friday style. Munro Leather Biker Jacket by JackThreads. Scarf by S.N.S. Herning. 505C Denim by Levi’s. Kimbo Chelsea Boots also by JackThreads. Red Wing Leather Watch by Timex x Todd Snyder. Glasses by Frameri.

Perhaps most importantly, it’s the height of menswear trade show season here in New York, so Friday proved a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of standout — yet busy — shows like Capsule and Liberty last week. After spending Thursday hustling around the shows, some quality Brooklyn time was in order. Of course, it’s always great to see what’s new and what’s next in the men’s style world. I definitely enjoyed catching up with Style Guide favorites like the Bridge & Burn team, along with my pals at Rivay, purveyors of stunningly rugged menswear. I’m particularly excited to working on a neat project with the classic prep-Americana clothiers at JACHS NY over the next few weeks, too.

A rock-inspired leather jacket, a classic henley, essential denim & Chelsea boots. Doesn't get more ready for Friday than that, ehh?

A rock-inspired leather jacket, a classic henley, essential denim & Chelsea boots. Doesn’t get more ready for Friday than that, ehh?

But all that action meant a relaxing Friday was pretty crucial. I was lucky enough to test out a unique piece of outerwear for the weekend, the JackThreads Munro Leather Biker, a sleek, classic and affordably priced take on the biker jacket silhouette. If you’ve been looking to switch up your style, I’d recommend you take a look at that jacket. I teamed it with some other rock-ready pieces, like my slim Levi’s 505C Denim — a new classic from a brand with tons of history. The denim proved a stylish and suitably rock-inspired move when matched up with my JackThreads Kimbo Chelsea Boots, too.  Plus, I teamed it with a personal favorite, the rugged Todd Snyder Classic Henley in Indigo, for a day spent around Williamsburg. I’ve written often about how I love the quiet atmosphere and beautifully handcrafted menswear at Upstate Stock, and they make an excellent Campfire Latte, too. In short, it’s a great place to post up, listen to some great music (The National, anyone?) and get some work done. The nearby Greenpoint Beer & Ale also proved the perfect place to grab a pre-birthday pint and some excellent “European comfort cuisine,” as they call it. Seriously, throw on your most rugged gear and belly up to the bar!

New birthday gifts from Abercrombie & Fitch, plus some old favorites from Timex and CAT Footwear. Thanks, Mom and Dad!

New birthday gifts from Abercrombie & Fitch, plus some old favorites from Timex and CAT Footwear. Thanks, Mom and Dad!

With some excellent Greenpoint brews in the books, it was time to kick off Saturday with some top-notch birthday gifts — and a crucial Bloody Mary — at another favorite Brooklyn spot, Fawkner. It’s a great neighborhood spot with a neat, rustic interior — like stepping into a Rudyard Kipling novel (think vintage posters, mounted animals and a neat blue color scheme, plus a plush study-like area in the back).  Of course, kicking the day off with a few gifts — and plenty of wishes from family and friends — was incredible, and made me feel very lucky! It’s not for nothing that those gifts included some stellar menswear. Namely  I was pumped to open an outstanding set of Abercrombie & Fitch Flannel-Lined Chinos and the very wearable, slim and stylish Abercrombie & Fitch Plaid Indigo Oxford Shirt — they both stylishly offset another personal favorite for perfect Saturday style, the Taylor Stitch Maritime Submariner Jacket (yet another birthday gift from the family!). I finished the look off with the durable, well-worn CAT Footwear Sutter Boots and my always-essential Timex x Red Wing Watebury Chronograph. The combination took me from brunch and around Brooklyn for a few brews with college friends at The Well, a cavernous, repurposed warehouse-turned-craft brew haven — what better place to celebrate a birthday in style??

Frank & Oak

Cheering on my Michigan State Spartans in style. Vintage-style sweater by Hillflint. Winter Denim by Abercrombie & Fitch. Field watch by Timex for J. Crew. Watch cap by Everlane. Karnes Captoe Boots by Johnston and Murphy.

Cheering on my Michigan State Spartans in style. Vintage-style sweater by Hillflint. Winter Denim by Abercrombie & Fitch. Field watch by Timex for J. Crew. Watch cap by Everlane. Karnes Captoe Boots by Johnston and Murphy.

With a remarkably fun birthday in the books, it was time to close out the weekend in relaxing — and athletic-inspired — style as I watched my Michigan State Spartans take on archrival Michigan in a much-anticipated home game. That meant reaching for a retro, warm and comfortable Hillflint Tailgate Sweater, a gift Santa left me under the tree this past Christmas in Florida. It’s the perfect way to upgrade your sports-centric style without spending too much. It layered nicely under my tough, weather-ready Flint and Tinder Flannel-Lined Waxed Trucker Jacket — seriously, pick up that outerwear if you haven’t already. The rugged combo was stylishly offset by my casual Abercrombie & Fitch denim, featuring brushed cotton for comfort and mobility. Plus, my reliable Johnston and Murphy Karnes Captoe Boots helped me navigate the chilly Brooklyn streets in style. Of course, there’s almost no better locale in Brooklyn — for the excellent beer and the value — at which to take in a game than Keg & Lantern (get the beer-and-wings combo and thank me later). It was the perfect way to end Sunday — topped off with yet another stop by Upstate Stock. I’m telling you, that’s a must-see spot if you love tranquility and menswear wrapped into a serene environment.

It’s weekends like this past one that make me really grateful for a multitude of things — my amazing family and friends chief among them. And the opportunity to live, work and blog in Brooklyn & Manhattan, while taxing at times, is fulfilling, fun and really enjoyable. This past year has brought a lot — professionally and personally — and I’m hopeful the next year will continue to do the same! That goes beyond just this blog, but I really appreciate you reading, thank you to so many for the birthday wishes, and I hope these style tips and musings are helpful! Join us tomorrow for the next entry in our #OOTD series, and follow along on Instagram for real-world style.

Stay stylish!

-Beau

Style Pick of the Week: Danner Mountain Light Boots

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.

danner-mountain-light-boots

Sturdy, reliable and durable boots with a bit of sleek styling potential thanks to the all-black silhouette.

There’s something about the depths of winter that causes you to take a look at #menswear pieces you might once have rejected. Not normally a fan of winter parkas? Maybe you’re considering getting one to battle the polar vortex. No need for durable winter gloves built for work? Think again. The same could possibly be said for alpine-inspired hikers. Unlike other stylish men’s winter boots, a hiker is quite distinctive in its silhouette — it’s not your average leather chukka boot, that’s for sure. Such is the case with the Danner Mountain Light, a classic pair of footwear that certainly means business when it comes to looking stylish in the snow.  It’s this week’s Style Pick of the Week for good reason — and not just because it’s the younger brother to the so-called “Bond Boot” — that would be the Danner Mountain Light II, as worn by none other than James Bond in 2015’s “SPECTRE.” Heck, our man Daniel Craig wore his Danner boots even when not on-camera. Now, the silhouette looks almost identical, but the Internet tells me the weights on these bad boys are different. There you go. So, why go for the Danner Mountain Light if you’re not a fan of hikers? Truly, you’ve got plenty of reason to give them a shot (functionality, toughness, alpine-inspired style) — and not just ‘cuz they’re sold via Huckberry.

Our main man Daniel Craig wearing the Danner Mountain Light II.... slightly different, but nonetheless worth channeling (maybe minus the handgun).

Our main man Daniel Craig wearing the Danner Mountain Light II…. slightly different, but nonetheless worth channeling (maybe minus the handgun).

In particular, the Danner Mountain Light is built with functionality in mind, through and through. Made in Danner’s Portland factory — that’d be Oregon — you’re getting all the hallmarks of quality and toughness you’d expect from a USA-made brand (plus a very Bond-ian silhouette). The stitchdown construction means you can resole ’em when the time comes — although you might not get to that point for a while. The Vibram outsole on the Danner Mountain Light — plus the brand’s custom last — also offer stability and support. That all means the Danner Mountain Light is the real deal — built for more than just strolling around the city. And if you’re not sold on the styling potential, take a cue from Bond — without the high-speed mountain chase. Slim black denim and rugged pieces like a shawl-collar cardigan and a marled henley are simple, effective complements to this rugged pair of boots — it’s practically an outfit tailor-made for getting around during a winter bar crawl. They’re the perfect pair of weekend boots, especially when teamed with simple, easygoing pieces like a classic crewneck sweater and beat-up blue denim. Even a simple piece like a sleek black bomber and black trousers are finished off reliably with the Danner Mountain Light — stealing  page from Bond’s playbook there. And of course, more technically inclined looks work just fine with a pair of boots that are tough, functional and yet uniquely stylish — your dad’s retro hiking boots, these are not. So, lace up and get climbing. Any thoughts on the Danner Mountain Light? Are you pro-hiker or anti-hiker? Let’s hear it in the comments below!

Thanks, as always, for reading — enjoy the weekend!

-Beau

Get the Danner Mountain Light now via Huckberry.

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Beckett Simonon

The Friday Read: Frank and Oak, Stylish Men’s Home Goods and The xx

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 you’ve had to check your calendar to confirm that it really is Friday again, you’re not alone. Between attending some excellent menswear trade shows — including Capsule Show and Liberty Fashion & Lifestyle Fairs — holding down the day job and working on this here blog, it’s positively flown by. It’s always refreshing to get out “in the field,” meet new brands and make new connections — good things in store ahead, I assure you. With those shows in the books, I’m truly looking forward to the weekend because, well, it’s my birthday! OK, that’s out of the way. But with any luck, I’ll get a few great #menswear gifts to feature on The Style Guide (‘cuz men’s style never sleeps). In classic fashion, I certainly intend on kicking back with a few craft brews — oh, and brunch. Absolutely, brunch. I’m particularly excited to partner with Frank and Oak on some content on behalf of the brand this weekend, too. You’ll be able to look for a full personal style post in that regard on Monday, of course! In the meantime, sit back and tuck in– this week, we talked the best men’s home goods to buy now, and we also filled you in on potentially your new favorite leather weekender bag. A lot happened in the men’s style world, too — read on below, join me on Instagram  and see what’s cooking over on Twitter. Cheers!

  • Regardless of how you feel about President Trump, it’s clear that some of his economic and trade, err, policies could directly impact the fashion industry. Specifically, American-made menswear. Esquire takes a deep dive into the issue this week; for what’s it worth, we here at The Style Guide — by we, I mean myself — will continue to cover and support brands that do high-quality work, anywhere and everywhere, but especially in the U.S.A.
  • We’re switching off of #menswear for the time being and diving into an album that’s been in my headphones — and perhaps yours, too — since it came out earlier this month. Esquire (those guys again) put together a beautifully composed feature on The xx and the band’s beautifully composed new album, “I See You.” I’d urge a listen if you want to lift your mood and your day, folks.
  • If stylish, technical and functional outerwear is your thing, read up on my latest GearMoose feature covering the sleek Sentinel Field Jacket — and maybe complement that purchase with a pair of the best men’s gloves for winter?
  • Last but not least — if you, like myself, will be fumbling around this weekend for your wallet, grab the Brothers Leather Supply 810 Wallet and solve that problem handsomely (it’s a bit of a throwback post, but useful in its own right).

As always — thank you for reading, and join us tomorrow for what I think you’ll find is a very winter-centric Style Pick of the Week. Fist bumps all around, and you can keep my tab open (wink, wink).

-Beau

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Mack Weldon: Underwear Upgraded

Telling you what you need to know about Mack Weldon. Photo courtesy of the brand.

Telling you what you need to know about Mack Weldon. Photo courtesy of the brand.

The more you learn about improving your style — heck, improving your lifestyle in general — the more important it is to realize the little details make a big difference. That’s what we talk about all the time at The Style Guide, and it’s always nice to get a reminder. That goes right down to what you’re wearing beneath your jeans or chinos — your underwear. Yes, that’s right. A great pair of underwear fits, feels and performs better — that’s what Mack Weldon has set out to perfect. It’s also why you should set out to upgrade your top drawer as soon as you can, as I’ve learned in testing out the brand over the past several months.

An array of colors and quality fabrics set 'em apart. Photo courtesy of the brand.

An array of colors and quality fabrics set ’em apart. Photo courtesy of the brand.

The E-commerce basics brand, a previous participant in this site’s Style Pick of the Week series, mixes the approach of a nimble start-up with the quality and attention to detail of a much larger brand — and the results show. Seriously, Mack Weldon underwear is what your top drawer needs, as soon as possible. The brand was founded on the process of simplifying basics shopping, and one look at the site makes it easy — pick your color, pick your size, a  few clicks and boom… new underwear. Much easier than the department store experience rifling through bin after bin.

And if retooling your underwear drawer feels daunting, fear not — the brand’s Try-on Guarantee implores you to just test it out. If the fit, fabric or feel isn’t right, the brand will issue you a refund or send you a different size, color or style — it’s that easy. You can even keep the pair you tried on. That’s how confident they are that you’ll love it. Not a bad deal, ehh?

Deconstructing the 18-Hour Jersey Boxer Brief.

Deconstructing what makes the brand’s product so useful. Photo courtesy of Mack Weldon.

Not that you can necessarily go wrong with something like the reliably made, comfortable 18-Hour Jersey Boxer Briefs. If you’re going to start with one purchase, make it these. Having tested them out myself through spring, summer, fall and winter in New York City, the fabric is durable yet extremely comfortable, the fit is great (particularly the Stay-Put Legs to prevent ‘em riding up) and touches like mesh cool zones help out immensely. I’ve worn Mack Weldon in the heat at Panorama NYC, I’ve worn ‘em tromping through the snow with a naval-inspired jacket, and the brand doesn’t let me down — that goes for pieces like its Merino Long-Sleeve Tee, too.

Unlike other underwear, the waistband is sturdy and doesn’t curl over — again, it’s the little details that make a difference. And it should come as no surprise  that the brand engineers its own fabrics — and generates great customer feedback along the way. It’s almost too easy to list out the things they do so well — quality, great comfort, top-notch fabric, excellent fit, an array of styles for every taste … that’s a win all around for stylish guys, and I’d bet you’ll be among those happy customers soon enough.

Consider adding a tee to go with your Mack Weldon underwear -- seriously. Photo courtesy of the brand.

Consider adding a tee to go with your Mack Weldon underwear — seriously. Photo courtesy of the brand.

They’ve taken the same nuanced technical and quality-oriented approach and put it to practice throughout the whole line. The brand’s Silver line of boxer briefs in particular makes use of another crucial and oft-overlooked design factor —  handy antimicrobial and anti-odor performance fabric in the way of Silver XT2. Yes, it’s made with a bit of actual pure silver woven into the fabric. Sound fancy? In short, you still get the same great fit and the ability to stay cool in the heat — or comfortable in the winter.

So from A to Z, Mack Weldon underwear gets it right — fit, reliability, comfort, performance and the brand’s word that you’ll love what you buy. Take my word for it and get shopping — will ya?

Editor’s note: Thanks to Mack Weldon for providing product for the purposes of this review. Thank you for supporting brands that support The Style Guide!

Style Q+A: Rivay Menswear

Editor’s note: To read up on a host of great menswear brands & personalities, check out the rest of the Style Q+A series.

If tough menswear that blends vintage inspiration with timeless functionality is what you need ... you just found your new favorite brand.

If tough menswear that blends vintage inspiration with timeless functionality is what you need … you just found your new favorite brand.

I must say, the first Style Q+A of 2017 is a pretty exciting one here on the blog. Investment-worthy and incredible to shop, yes — but also very exciting. The opportunities the menswear world provides to so many people — both as a career and a creative outlet — are pretty cool and often unexpected. That’s the case with Rivay, a relatively young new menswear brand based out of NYC that I’ve had the chance to learn more about this winter season. It sprang from unexpected beginnings (stick around for the Q+A), and I’d wager it’s here to stay. Certainly, if it’s sturdy, handsome winter style essentials that you seek, you’re in luck — lots of luck. I won’t give everything away here, but Rivay gets plenty of things right on multiple #menswear fronts. From a ridiculously beautiful hand-knit cable sweater to everyday pieces that blend functionality and style — like the Keats Hooded Parka — the collection feels of a different, more rustic and rugged age … yet it would be easy to wear in the streets of NYC and well beyond this winter. I caught up with founder Jon Ruti, who provided some excellent insight into the brand’s unlikely beginnings and how the streets of the Big Apple shape the design, technicality and yes, truly great style of his menswear line. So as you take stock of your 2017 menswear resolutions — be they upgrading your closet itself or upgrading your home goods — you’d be wise to look into Rivay to help you with a few choice menswear pieces. You really won’t regret it. For now, I’ll let founder Jon Ruti fill you in on a brand that’s making big waves in the NYC menswear scene.

TSG: Tell me about the start of the Rivay brand, in your own words?

 JR: The idea for Rivay began when I was still working as an Assistant District Attorney here in New York City. Prosecution is a tough job. The long hours and subject matter can wear a person down. To maintain balance, I made a point to dedicate weekends to pursuing my hobbies. Vintage cars, travel – anything that took my mind off the job.

When it came time to leave the office, I couldn’t find a brand for the transition from profession to off-duty. Existing brands were either too technical or too fashion. I wanted a clean, modern, well edited collection that looked natural going to and from my weekend passions. That’s when Rivay took shape.

TSG: NYC-centric design is a big focus for Rivay – how does the city shape the clothing you produce?

JR: NYC informs our designs in several ways. Living and working here gives us insight into how our styles should function. Crowded subway cars, freak downpours, cracked sidewalks – daily life here can be tough on a man’s wardrobe. To combat this, we source the best fabrics, those that can handle the daily commute as well as a weekend of adventure. Our silhouettes are clean, modern and made to stand up to daily life. So no matter if you’re using our parka for a rainy commute or a weekend drive, you can be sure it’s going to perform, look good and last.

In the more general sense, NYC is a place where classic and modern exist in harmony. It’s a characteristic that informs our designs. Using modern, clean silhouettes and constructing them with classic, time-tested fabrics is a cornerstone of our design philosophy.

The Kipling Wool Overshirt and Hopper Selvedge Oxford Workshirt are excellent examples of perfect pieces from the brand.

The Kipling Wool Overshirt and Japanese Cotton Chambray Popover are excellent examples of perfect pieces from the brand.

TSG: What’s your favorite item in the current line? Any plans to expand into different product categories in future seasons?

 JR: I love our Keats Parka. It’s unlined, paired down to the absolute essentials and looks just as good over a suit on the way to the office or over a t-shirt on the way to a Saturday cars & coffee. Pair it with one of our lightweight and ultra-soft Japanese wool shirt jackets and you’ve got yourself a warm & seriously stylish alternative to the typical Barbour or Patagonia setup.

For Spring-Summer 2017, we have some exciting developments in pants, shorts and printed shirting. Some of the hardest things for a man to find are flattering pants and masculine, restrained prints. We’ve spent a lot of time perfecting the fit of our pants and sourcing fabrics and prints that will have you looking stylish for the warmer months.

TSG: On a style-related note, what’s one essential (either from your brand, or a style classic) that every guy should own?

 From Rivay, our Hopper Selvedge Oxford Work Shirt is an excellent alternative to the typical oxford. Just as soft and durable as the classic, but in an updated silhouette that is both rugged and refined.

For items outside of Rivay, a vintage timepiece or a car with some character. On the pricier spectrum, a Rolex Submariner 5513 and a Defender 90 look good with anything, anytime, anywhere. For something a little more approachable, a vintage Smiths W10 Military watch and late 1960s all-original Ford pickup are timeless. So long as you invest in good design, it will never go out of style.

Shop the beautiful Rivay collection just as soon as you can, and follow Rivay on Instagram for quite the dash of visual inspiration.

Beckett Simonon

#OOTD: The Best Way to Wear a Turtleneck 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.

As we’ve moved through the #OOTD series, we’ve covered a whole host of content — everything from how to suit up this winter to wearing a classic Oxford. We’re continuing down that path with something a bit more adventurous — in one regard — than past #menswear features on this site. Whether you’re a Steve McQueen devotee or have only started noticing the ubiquity of this classic-turned-trend-turned … nearly classic, you’ve surely seen a stylish fella or two rocking a turtleneck.  It’s a style move that can feel a little bit advanced, particularly if you’re just refreshing your style for the new year. So, today’s #OOTD  will ease into wearing a turtleneck in a way that’s accessible and sharp for just about anybody Now, if you fancy yourself a bit more advanced in the style department, check out some next-level tips on how to wear a turtleneck from Articles of Style. And on a more basic front, since style is an evolving process, I’d say stick to buying classics like a slim crewneck sweater or a sharp V-neck sweater before buying a turtleneck. But if you do want to dip your toes into this bolder move, the option featured today shouldn’t hurt your wallet too much. Curiosity piqued? OK, great. Read on below, and let’s catch up on Twitter and Instagram while we’re here.
Huckberry

Sharp, simple and easier to pull off than you think -- truly.

Sharp, simple and easier to pull off than you think — truly.

The Turtleneck: JackThreads Franklin Turtleneck, $39 — Kicking things off with a rich winter shade that’s not too ostentatious — yes, this burgundy turtleneck is affordably priced and made from an easy-to-layer cotton.

The Peacoat: J. Crew Dock Peacoat with Thinsulate, $298 — What’s the key to making it all work? A classic winter outer layer like this J. Crew peacoat — it works even better if you’ve got an original U.S. Navy Peacoat on-hand.

The Pants: Bonobos Jetsetter Wool Pants in Light Grey, $198 — The idea of taking grey trousers and mashing them up with black boots and a dark peacoat feels a little something like James Bond would wear, ehh? That’s why it’s the way to go here. Yes, they’re pricey — but Bonobos makes trousers as good as they get.

The Boots: Nisolo Emilio Chukka Boot, $149.98 — Because it’s chilly and slushy out there, slick black boots with a rather unique construction and a slim profile are a smart move — get the Emilio Chukka Boot ASAP.

The Socks: American Trench Pima Cotton Houndstooth Socks, $16.98 — Dress socks that break away from a solid light grey or charcoal are a welcome touch in winter, and American Trench knows how to craft them.

The Belt: Bonobos Black Leather Dress Belt, $98 — If you’re grabbing some slim Bonobos trousers, might as well grab a slick, investment-level black dress belt to accent them, right?

The Watch: Daniel Wellington Classic Sheffield Watch in Black Leather, $229 — A slim, refined black leather dress watch is underrated in the men’s style world (brown leather seems to dominate). So, this is a smart pick-up.

The Wallet: Tanner Goods Limited Edition Quad Wallet, $54.98 — Because this is the type of outfit that’s ideal to wear to a refined dinner or (dare I say) a nice night at the theater, you need a slim, refined and well-made wallet. Lucky that Tanner Goods has you set with the Quad Wallet, yes?
NOV CAMPAIGN: Horizontal banner with shoes and logo (border)

Hopefully, we’re all on-board with the turtleneck trend by now — or at least, on the road to considering how to wear it in a refined, accessible manner. When you start with a rich, winter-friendly color like burgundy and ground it with a  classic peacoat and slim grey trousers, you’re stepping out in something that’s crisp and classic — nothing too crazy here. Crisp black leather chukka boots are perfect in terms of functionality and sharp style, as is a refined black leather dress watch. And a slim leather wallet  leaves nothing to chance in terms of a well-composed everyday carry. Have more questions on other ways to wear a turtleneck or stylish winter accessories to buy to go with this look? Drop me a line via email — or leave a question in the comments!

Thanks very much for reading,

-Beau

Online Shopping Picks: The Best Men’s Home Goods to Upgrade Your Space

Seeing as we’re getting into 2017 now, how are your men’s style resolutions coming along?  Hopefully, pretty swimmingly. Whether you’ve resolved to suit up more, buy that new winter jacket or upgrade your winter boots rotation, I wish you the best of luck.  And in the event that your resolutions are less about style and more about your lifestyle, today’s set of online shopping picks will have you more than set when it comes to matters outside of what’s on your feet. Yes, upgrading your living space is a sometimes-overlooked part of the men’s lifestyle equation — as you dress better, that can lead to an interest in new books, new music, art … the whole nine yards. Now, this is coming from a guy with a habit of hanging old concert posters on his walls … but it’s a work in progress. And as it turns out, brands and sites like Huckberry and Apolis, among others,  offer everything from gorgeous books to excellent art and neat, more refined touches for a guy’s home. That’s what we’re getting into today — not all of these pieces are full-on essentials, but many of them can go a long way toward making your home, office, apartment or work space a little more stylish and enjoyable. Weigh in over on The Style Guide Facebook page, and to see some behind-the-scenes menswear action, hit up yours truly on Instagram.  Shop away!
Beckett Simonon

The Candle: Farmhouse Pottery Pine Candle — $29.98

A masculine, but not overpowering, scent for your home or office.

A masculine, but not overpowering, scent for your home or office.

If there’s one thing that can go a long way to upgrading a guy’s study, office, etc. — we don’t say man cave around here — it’s scent. And something with a clean, masculine aroma, like this Farmhouse Pottery Pine Candle, is the way to go. The price is right, the candle container itself is no-fuss and the overall package should blend in handsomely with your bookshelf or desk. Is there anything better than putting on a nice candle and a good book — or the latest issue of Esquire? It really is the little things, folks.

The Wall Art: Meridian Line Comfort Zone Canvas Print — $43.98

A rugged, unique finishing touch to a workspace.

A rugged, unique finishing touch to a workspace.

While a candle might be a smaller detail, what’s hanging on your wall is much more noticeable — and carries with it even more potential to upgrade your space. And while we all love a good neon beer sign (I do wish I had one), a piece of simple, well-made and unique wall art can work wonders for a small space. Enter the justly named Comfort Zone Canvas Print as sold by our pals at Huckberry — from the leather hanging rope to the wooden dowels, it’s as masculine and yet versatile a piece of wall art as you can get. And it looks classier than that PBR poster — right?

The Planter: Friday and River Leather-Wrapped Planter — $50

An eye-catching addition to any small space -- when filled with an air plant, that is.

An eye-catching addition to any small space — when filled with an air plant, that is.

If you perused our last Style Guide Q&A, you know the home goods and lifestyle visionaries behind Friday & River. They focus on essential, well-made pieces for your everyday carry and your home — from slim wallets to smartly made candles and coasters — and they do it by blending a design ethos that’s part minimalist, part rugged and very essential. Even if you’re not a guy who goes crazy for gardening or plants, a leather-wrapped planter with a small air plant adds some color and a bit of a personal, brighter touch to any space.

The Fan: Stadler Form Otto Fan — $199.99

Do you need a stylish fan? Yes, yes I'd say you do.

Do you need a stylish fan? Yes, yes I’d say you do.

OK, so here’s the argument for upgrading your fan — if you’re going to need to have one anyway (say, if your office or apartment gets toasty in the summer), why not grab a fan that’s uniquely … stylish? Made from African saeple wood and designed with the sort of sharp minimalism one would expect from the Swiss (seriously), the Form Otto Fan could just be the last fan you need to buy — and that’s saying something.

The Unique Touch: PILLBOX Bat Co. Pinstripes Bat — $159.98
A visually interesting way to add some sports flair to your wall or bookshelf.

A visually interesting way to add some sports flair to your wall or bookshelf.

If you’re shopping for style on a budget — and who isn’t after the holidays — then dropping some dough on this cool-looking, yet not truly essential Pinstripes Bat  probably shouldn’t be your first priority. But if in fact you or someone you know is a big sports fan and wouldn’t mind seeing an upgraded take on the baseball bat hanging in their office or resting on their shelf, then by all means — swing for the fences (Bingo!).

Huckberry

The Magazine: Gear Patrol — $39 per Subscription

A supremely well-edited magazine done up for the modern man.

A supremely well-edited magazine done up for the modern man.

Among the essential tomes that should line a guy’s bookshelf, I’d humbly submit the beautifully designed, expertly crafted and just plain neat-to-read Gear Patrol. Everyone’s favorite purveyors of rugged-refined gear and sweet gadgets do a truly remarkable job producing biannual print issues that span the globe and feature relatable, well-executed content on everything from spirits and adventure to gourmet dining. It’s the type of magazine you really can pick up repeatedly and find something different each time — get out there, read and explore.

Are you ready to upgrade your living room or office as of yet? Or have you already started? Getting things going with a few small touches — a nice coffee-table magazine or a smart, masculine candle —  can lead to bigger changes, like hanging some rugged wall art or buying a better fan or even … *gasp* picking up a plant for your office or study. Like building great style, it’s all a process — and it can be fun to explore, add on and see how your tastes change over time.  But with that being said, you’ve got to start somewhere — and I hope the picks above help you out.

Start shopping, keep shopping and stay stylish!

-Beau

Editor’s note: Portions of this post use affiliate links, from which a small commission on purchases might be earned.

 

Style Pick of the Week: Nisolo Leon Weekender

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. Portions of this post use affiliate links, off of which a small commission might be earned on purchases.

Your new favorite weekender? Possibly. The only one you'll need to buy again? Likely.

Your new favorite weekender? Possibly. The only one you’ll need to buy again? Likely.

There comes a time in every guy’s life when he looks at his weekender bag and thinks “Y’know, there’s something missing.” Right? Right. Well, we’re here to solve the conundrum between style, functionality and durability this weekend with this Saturday’s Style Pick, the handsome, extremely well-made and essential Nisolo Leon Weekender.  You might recognize this bag from this site’s recent feature on how to dress for winter travel, but we’re taking a bit of a deeper dive today. Now, a weekender bag probably isn’t going to take care of all of your travel luggage needs — especially if you’re on the road for longer than, well, a weekend — but if you need a new bag for quick trips and the like, the Leon Weekender just might be exactly what the doctor ordered. As sold via everyone’s favorite third-party men’s lifestyle site — we’re talking ’bout Huckberry — a stylish weekender bag is every bit as important to pick up as tough winter boots or a stylish pair of winter gloves. And whether you’re gearing up in fall travel style or hitting the road in winter (or really, any other season), you’re gonna want to look good. Trust us on that one. And why is the Nisolo Leon Weekender the one to buy now? Well, it’s got great looks, durability and functionality — and that’s just for starters.
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Perhaps a few travel packing tips worth stealing. Photo courtesy of Huckberry.

Perhaps a few travel packing tips worth stealing. Photo courtesy of Huckberry.

Nisolo tends to fly under the radar a little bit as far as notoriety goes, but that’s not a bad thing — it just means you’re in on the ground floor. You might recognize them from a recent tailored style #OOTD — yessir, they make beautiful leather chukkas, too. And of course, the brand specializes in handsome, versatile goods with just enough rugged edge — that’s what makes the Leon Weekender so essential.  It’s handmade in Mexico — a country with a rather surprising amount of excellent leather producers and factories — out of vegetable-tanned leather that should develop a beautiful patina over time. The tan cotton canvas lining adds a dash of durability to protect your gear, while leather zipper pulls are a thoughtful design touch. It might just be the perfect weekender bag — it’s dressy enough to look right at home with a business casual travel outfit, yet it’s got enough character to work as an accessory in a more rugged winter style ensemble. Size-wise, it’s a bit smaller than the relatively roomy Owen and Fred Voyager Waxed Weekender, so there should be no issues packing it up with travel style essentials. An added bonus? You can pick up something like the equally handsome Nisolo Durango Dopp Kit for a full set of reliable, durable travel gear from the same brand.  And although the price tag is a tad high, it’s the type of investment you won’t regret making — this is a bag you’ll absolutely have for years to come; just think of the stories and adventures you’ll have. On that note philosophical note, we’re wrapping up this week’s Style Pick. We’ll see you on Monday as we get back to the grind.

Thanks for reading,

-Beau

Get the Nisolo Leon Weekender now via Huckberry.

The Friday Read: Kings of Leon, Menswear Trade Shows and SuitSupply

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.

Menswear never sleeps, especially not if it’s Friday and there’s more work to be done before the end of the week. Welcome back to The Friday Read, where we’re going through all the men’s style tips and essentials you need to know to kick off your weekend, well, in style. We’re a few days closer to the positively massive and hectic trade show season in New York City, followed by another edition of New York Fashion Week: Men’s. I’m looking forward to scoping out new brands at the likes of Capsule Show and Liberty Fairs, just as I did on a summer trip to Las Vegas via my PR day job (with a bit of hustling on the side, of course).  Checking out new brands and reconnecting with great supporters at Style Guide favorites like Owen & Fred and Tanner Goods is always pretty great — if a little tiring between the daily grind and the afterparties! So, I’m definitely going to enjoy this weekend — particularly kicking it off tonight by seeing the arena-sized rock show that is Kings of Leon! To see a show at Madison Square Garden is pretty special, and that’s no more true than with a group you’ve followed since middle school.  Of course, I’ll be dressed in rock concert style — no doubt about that. What are you weekend plans? If it’s chilly where you are, I hope you layer up in classic winter style — there’s no better way to dress for the season, trust me.  Enjoy the weekend, thanks for reading and join us for a winter travel-centric Style Pick of the Week tomorrow.

  • Who knows how much gear is still left on the brand’s digital shelves, but the fine folks at SuitSupply opened up the SuitSupply online outlet for your shopping pleasure earlier this week — it’s the type of sale that many get excited about every year, and with great deals on slick tailoring and accessories, it’s not hard to see why.  Just how to style that new winter suit, though? Have I got the tailored #OOTD for you.
  • If we’re talking handmade craftsmanship and fine attention to detail, then we’re talking Markhor, a footwear company out of Pakistan that’s changing the industry’s approach to stylish men’s dress shoes — and trying valiantly to do so. I covered the brand via my latest post for The Manual, and it really was great to learn more about the unique and intriguing ways in which they craft their sleek, classic shoes.
  • Let’s step outside the menswear world for a second — and you might want to grab your headphones, because the xx put out “I See You,” the best album of this young year, last Friday … if you haven’t been able to stop listening, you’re not alone. It’s filled with essential tracks rendered with lush music, and I’d say they’re an essential act to see come summer festival season.
  • Before New York City’s menswear trade shows and the resulting fashion week scene heat up, take a look at GQ.com’s rundown of the best Milan street style  from the European style circuit.

Thanks, as always, for reading — and enjoy the weekend!

-Beau

Beckett Simonon