Month / March 2017

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: Daniel Craig’s Watch Collection, Ryan Gosling and Local Natives

Alright, folks — Happy St. Patrick’s Day! Over here, we’re buckling up for another Friday Read  on The Style Guide, and we’re capping off a very busy week in the process.  The days have flown by since I returned from a Style Guide spring break trip to Florida, choice #menswear gear in tow and all.  The NYC weather certainly proved a bit of a rude awakening, what with snow and rain and sleet pounding the city during Winter Storm Stella — that meant a day of working from home (or the Style Guide’s Brooklyn HQ, as I like to call it). If you dodged the winter weather this week, good for you — raise a pint and of course, check out this site’s feature on how to dress for St. Patrick’s Day (hurry, there’s still time!).

Greats

We’re also in the midst of the opening weekend of the NCAA Tournament, and I’ll be fervently cheering on my Michigan State Spartans wearing some of my best team gear. If you need a few tips of your own when it comes to how to dress for March Madness, I’ve got you covered. And once the game wraps, I’ve got another busy weekend ahead — I’m hitting the road early Saturday to Pittsburgh to see perhaps my favorite band, Local Natives! That makes four shows in about five months, including my fall trek to Providence, and I couldn’t be any more pleased or excited! From powerful tracks off their most recent album, “Sunlit Youth,” through to classic offerings from “Gorilla Manor” and “Hummingbird,” I truly can’t wait to see ’em again! If you’ve got any suggestions for things to see or do in Pittsburgh, drop me a line. As per usual, you can follow me via Instagram or check out The Style Guide on Facebook to see how my trip goes — we’ll have a full travel style recap on Monday, too! In the meantime, enjoy your weekend and Go Green!

  • Let’s kick things off here by discussing some stylish men’s watches — shall we?  Namely, Bloomberg Pursuits caught up with our main man, and Style Guide favorite, Daniel Craig — they got the scoop on the watches he loves and wears.
  • Speaking of tough, durable watches, are you familiar with the Huckberry Combat B33 GMT Watch? No, you say? Well, it was last week’s Style Pick of the Week, and I’d strongly urge you to check it out.
  • Another current Man of the Hour in matters of style, Ryan Gosling shows you how to wear your new blue suit . Now, a word of warning — he might be the only one who can pull it off (womp, womp).
  • Be prepared to open up your wallet for this one — GQ tells us all about what could be your new favorite Oxford shirt (if you can spare some extra cash).
  • Let’s end the week on a non-menswear note discussing perhaps my favorite movie of all-time — will there be a sequel to Gladiator? Only time will tell; if Ridley Scott has anything to say about it, we just might get one, though!

We’re not quite set to roll into the weekend yet …

  • No sir, we’ve got one more post for you — if you need a tough jacket to battle inclement spring weather, the Whipping Post Explorer Jacket was made for you. It’s my latest via GearMoose, and I had a great time writing it.

That’s all for now — join us for another Style Pick of the Week entry tomorrow!

-Beau

Huckberry

by Beau H.

Style Suggestion: How to Dress for March Madness The Right Way

If you’re a fan of college basketball — and even if you’re not — you presumably know that March Madness is coming up this weekend.  It brings a lot of hype with it — and despite that, I say we should be focused on dressing for March Madness the right way. As for me, I’ll be fervently cheering on my beloved Michigan State Spartans (GO GREEN!). If you’re heading to a  watch party or to your favorite local pub to take in the action, you  know what I’m about to say — don’t let those style upgrades go to waste. We’ve talked about how to dress for football season, but dressing for March Madness is a bit of a different animal. There’s spring layering involved, there’s office style to consider — during games later this week, at least — and you still need to show proper spirit. If that lines up with your game plan, you’ll enjoy today’s post. Follow along on Instagram and via The Style Guide Facebook page to see how I’ll be cheering on MSU — as always, best of luck and stay stylish!

The Sweater: Hillflint Cotton Tailgating Sweater — $89

A much more stylish alternative to your average sports jersey.

A much more stylish alternative to your average sports jersey.

Who said dressing for sporting events meant throwing on an athletic jersey? No sir, the folks at Hillflint have been doing things differently for quite some time, drawing on vintage and old-school collegiate styles to craft team gear that’s a darn sight better-looking than a baggy sports jersey (sorry, guys — it’s my job). The 100 percent cotton fabrication means this is pretty breathable and easy to layer under a tough waxed trucker jacket should the weather turn south — and whoever you root for, you’re supporting your squad the whole way through thanks to the brand’s plethora of team options.

The Henley: Reigning Champ Long-Sleeve Henley — $85

A sport-inspired layering piece that looks great on its own and works the whole rest of the year.

A sport-inspired layering piece that looks great on its own and works the whole rest of the year.

You could certainly layer a classic chambray shirt underneath the aforementioned team sweater, but a henley from the good folks at Reigning Champ makes just as much sense. In a casual style situation, it’s more comfortable and works better on its own if you get too hot (or … if you don’t feel like repping a losing squad? Ouch).  Besides that, a simple, functional and durable piece like the Reigning Champ Long-Sleeve Henley works throughout the rest of the spring and into fall and winter. Get on it now.

The Denim: Nudie Jeans Lean Dean — $200
Crisp enough for the office, dressy enough for the bar and perfect everywhere else.

Crisp enough for the office, dressy enough for the bar and perfect everywhere else.

There’s no better time than the spring for a casual pair of slim light wash denim. Made with premium Italian cotton and featuring a unique “Indigo Spirit” wash, the Lean Dean is just dressy enough to work at the office thanks to the tailored fit. Make no mistake though, they’ll also work nicely at the bar or hanging with friends to watch the tourney’s opening rounds.
 Beckett Simonon
A better alternative to athletic sneakers? Surely. Made responsibly? Definitely.

A better alternative to athletic sneakers? Surely. Made responsibly? Definitely.

Leave it to Astorflex to craft a seriously sustainable, stylish and spring-friendly boot via its Bootflex line.  As it turns out, the Bootflex line is now sold out, so we’re also recommending you grab the slick, sharp Astorflex Bitflex Chelsea Boot in Dark Khaki. Sold via the ever-stylish team at Huckberry, you’re getting a surprisingly sturdy suede boot finished off with a natural rubber sole either way. The Dark Khaki color is just the right shade to transition into spring, and the casual nature of these boots means they’ll stylishly offset the more casual athletic sweater and light denim.
ubb-ultimate-american-sock

A durable-as-heck pair of socks that work in multiple seasons and don’t detract from your team garb.

Lest you think socks are just socks and you should pay them no mind … meet the Ultimate American Sock
from United By Blue. Crucially, these socks are as easy to wear with the lightweight Bootflex in Dark Khaki as they are with a tough pair of winter boots or a spring weekend ensemble. Plus, the color of these socks is unassuming and doesn’t distract from your sweater — and that’s what we want anyways, right?

Frank & Oak

A straightforward casual belt with nice spring texture and an agreeable price -- winning style for the tourney.

A straightforward casual belt with nice spring texture and an agreeable price — winning style for the tourney.

In the grand scheme of things, a belt might not seem like the biggest deal. But when you’re gearing up in casual fashion, the little style details still matter. So, a textured leather belt is a simple, easy pick to make alongside the Bootflex in Dark Khaki  and the casual wash and slim fit of the Lean Dean. Plus, it works with plenty of other laidback #menswear ‘fits.
A tough watch with classic diver specs and the versatility to work for a casual night watching a slate of games.

A tough watch with classic diver specs and the versatility to work for a casual night watching a slate of games.

A relatively recent addition to the Huckberry line of stellar goods, the Deep Blue Master 1000 Automatic Diver is both handsome and functional. For starters, it features 330 meters of water resistance and a stainless steel case. What does that mean for you, college basketball fan? It means the Master 1000 Automatic Diver  can stand up to spilled drinks in the pandemonium of celebrating a win, and it means it’ll look great alongside other casual menswear picks this season.

The Essential: GrowlerWerks 64oz. uKeg — $159

The best way to serve beer at your March Madness party? Maybe, just maybe.

The best way to serve beer at your March Madness party? Maybe, just maybe.

If you’re throwing a March Madness party — or if you’re attending one — enjoying a key beverage of choice is always of the utmost concern. Yet another essential piece of gear sold by Huckberry, the GrowlerWerks 64oz. uKeg  is certainly a sturdy vessel for your favorite brew, with enough bells and whistles included to keep your favorite craft beer perfectly carbonated all game long. And who can resist the vintage look of the copper plating? Again, we’re going beyond just athletics here today.
With all that being said … I assume we’ve got our brackets filled out — right? Ideally, the above March Madness style suggestion should take care of a few more pressing items for you. Starting things off on the right foot with an upgraded athletic sweater is going to set you apart in a good way no matter where you go, and complementing that sweater with another athletic-inspired piece (like the Reigning Champ Long-Sleeve Henley) is just a move that works here. Casual, versatile pieces like the Lean Dean work for both the office and a game-watching party, as does the handsome lace-up silhouette of the Bootflex in Dark Khaki.  And given that everyone loves a tough, durable and casual watch, you could do worse than the Master 1000 Automatic Diver. While we’re talking essentials, please save some Hill Farmstead from the GrowlerWerks 64oz. uKeg for me, will ya?
Unless you went to The U, I wish you luck this weekend — stay stylish and GO GREEN!
-Beau

by Beau H.

#OOTD: The Best Way to Dress on St. Patrick’s Day This Year

OK, folks — let’s belly up to the bar, grab a Guinness… wait a second. No no no,  wait … what is that you’re wearing? C’mon, man. No shamrock suits today. All joking aside, today’s #OOTD should  (hopefully) be quite helpful, as we’re tackling the best men’s style gear to wear on St. Patrick’s Day — and we’re doing it relatively affordably and quite stylishly (if I do say so myself). St. Patrick’s Day — St. Paddy’s Day, to all of us AP Style nitpickers — is a day that might’ve once meant skipping class for a few celebratory pints … if that’s still the case, let’s trade spots. Now though, you might find yourself at the office and then hopping around for a Black-and-Tan or two. As always, the key question is … what to wear? Specifically, how to dress in business casual style that’s still comfortable and situationally appropriate? Lucky for ya, ye Style Guide reader, you’ve got the luck of the Irish on your side and … ahh, who am I kidding. Let’s get to the #menswear, shall we? Follow along on Instagram and Twitter for all the style news & musings you can handle, and let me know how you feel about this #OOTD in the comments.
Beckett Simonon

A touch of green, a rugged cardigan and casual denim. All solid holiday picks.

A touch of green, a rugged cardigan and casual denim. All solid holiday picks.

The Shirt: Abercrombie & Fitch Garment-Dye Oxford Shirt, $39 — Here’s the focal point of your outfit, a nice way to show people you’re rocking some green — and an even better shirt to have with you for that spring bar crawl. 

The Cardigan: Iron & Resin Fletcher Cardigan, $110.98 — While you could also layer up with a piece like the Todd Snyder x Champion Pocket Sweatshirt, the Fletcher Cardigan offers similar comfort and visual interest.

The Denim: Nudie Jeans Lean Dean, $200 — Between the one percent stretch, the tailored-yet-comfortable fit and the casual rinsed wash, the Lean Dean is a nice pair of easygoing denim for a day that demands it.

The Boots: JackThreads Mac Desert Chukka, $49.98 — I haven’t tested these shoes out myself, but I’d wager they’ll be just the right blend of casual and comfortable. And hey, you get nice quality for a standout price.
Frank & Oak

The Belt: Abercrombie & Fitch Woven Leather Belt, $44 — Between the casual suede chukkas and the laidback Nudie Jeans Lean Dean denim, a textured belt is just the way to go. 

The Watch: Jack Mason Aviator 3-Hand Watch, $205 — While you could reach for a casual NATO strap watch like the Timex x Todd Snyder Mod Watch, the Jack Mason Aviator 3-Hand Watch is both durable and handsome.

The Everyday Carry: Scout Hook Keychain Bottle Opener, $60 — Part bottle opener, part keychain and just the handy accessory you need for a St. Paddy’s Day party. Hey, you won’t lose a bottle opener or your keys.

The Must-Have: Bellroy The Phone Wallet (iPhone 7), $89.95 — Even if you’re not blessed with an iPhone 7, accessories from Bellroy  should handsomely round out your St. Patrick’s Day. Plus, the Phone Wallet protects from all sorts of damage (spilled beer, anyone?).

It’s critical to keep in mind that you don’t want to go overboard on St. Patrick’s Day — that is, in matters of dress or matters of Guiness consumption. Working just a touch of green into your outfit is a solid way to nod to the day, yet a layering piece like the Iron & Resin Fletcher Cardigan helps offset it stylishly and casually. For the warmer spring months, it’s also a great move to have casual-yet-essential light wash denim like the Nudie Jeans Lean Dean in your rotation. Suede chukkas keep the outfit squarely in casual territory, and a durable watch like the Jack Mason Aviator 3-Hand is a go-anywhere essential. Rounding out your everyday carry with functionality and toughness in mind is also critical — enter the Scout Hook Keychain Bottle Opener and the Bellroy Phone Wallet. Lastly — enjoy the day in style, pick up the menswear you need for the occasion, and raise a glass for me!

Cheers,

-Beau

by Beau H.

Style Guide on The Road: A Florida Spring Break

Casual style fit for beach adventures. Striped tee and swim trunks by JackThreads. Renshaw Sneakers by Brooks Heritage. Military Watch by Timex + Todd Snyder. Sunglasses by Nautica. Explorer’s Cap by Huckberry. Bracelet by Miansai.

So, welcome back to another Style Guide travel post! It’s become a custom these past few years for me to make a spring trek down to Florida in mid-March, right around the Big Ten Tournament (featuring my beloved Michigan State Spartans) and right around my dad’s birthday (hey, Dad!). And so it was the case again this past weekend, as I got out of the hustle and bustle of New York City for some birthday celebrations with my dad and some much-needed Florida beach time. I had the chance to spend a week down south as I celebrated a Fort Myers Christmas in style back at the end of December, but this trip couldn’t have come at a better time, what with cold temperatures returning to Brooklyn this past weekend. My packing list was different than my recent winter trip to New Haven, but I focused on spring style essentials and my favorite #menswear picks for the road nonetheless. Join me, and bring that bottle opener — will ya?
Greats

Transitional gear for temperate NYC and sunny Florida. Trucker Jacket by Levi’s. Garment-dye oxford by Abercrombie & Fitch. Stretch twill pants by Kit Culture. Greenflex Chukkas by Astorflex. Watch by Timex for J. Crew. Sunglasses by MVMT Watches. Flight Brief by Owen and Fred.

It was a temperate early morning in NYC as I hit the road, so I had to dress with transitional travel style in mind. For me, that meant an Abercrombie & Fitch Garment Dye Oxford Shirt, layered up with my Levi’s Trucker Jacket. Of note, that oxford is a very affordably priced, great-fitting and seasonally appropriate shirt. Just as with my New Haven road trip, I stepped into my extremely comfortable, slim-fitting and travel-ready stretch twill pants from Kit Culture — the five percent stretch proved perfect for a plane ride. Equally perfect for travel style? A sharp pair of sustainably made Astorflex chukkas — the Greenflex in Dark Khaki provided a stylish contrast to my Timex for J. Crew watch,. And with its minimal case size and durable NATO strap, the latest Timex for J. Crew timepiece is an affordable casual watch you should buy as soon as you can.  To haul the rest of my gear, I relied on both the Owen and Fred Voyager Waxed Weekender and the  Owen and Fred Flight Brief in Midnight ; each proved stylish and durable, what with handsome leather accents and a canvas exterior.

With my travel gear in tow and nothing but sunny skies in the forecast, I landed in Florida looking forward to some serious fun in the sun — and that’s certainly what you get in Fort Myers. With a delicious lunch at Summerlin Jake’s in the books — waterfront view and all — it was high time for an afternoon spent at my parents’ pool (one of the more scarce things to find in New York City, truly).  Topped off with a delicious dinner and some choice brews at The Grill in Fort Myers, it was a much-needed day of relaxation that couldn’t have worked out any better.

Greats

No better place than Florida for a nautical-inspired tee and some crisp kicks. Striped tee by JackThreads. Stringer Dune Shorts by Bridge and Burn. Renshaw Sneakers by Brooks Heritage. Military Watch by Timex + Todd Snyder. Sunglasses by Nautica. Brass bottle opener by Owen and Fred.

With a fun Thursday in the books, a weekend of kicking back was really just getting started. That’s not to say it wasn’t busy — and that’s not to say I didn’t dress in style, either. Naturally, I had to grab warm-weather gear from perennial Style Guide favorites JackThreads, including a nautical-striped tee. Hot temps also meant it was time to ditch my classic blue denim (finally!) for a pair of Bridge and Burn shorts. For exploring Fort Myers, I also had to reach for stylish accessories (enter my Nautica Square Sunglasses) and comfortable, versatile footwear — that’d be the Brooks Heritage Renshaw  from the brand-new Brooks Heritage Grand Slam Collection. For grabbing donuts at the legendary Bennett’s Fresh Roast, the extra  comfort provided by those kicks was crucial — as was staying on time, thanks to my Timex + Todd Snyder Military Watch. And wouldn’t you know it, keeping track of the clock helped us squeeze in some much-needed beach time before a great home-cooked meal (I’d highly suggest you ask me for my dad’s rib recipe). MSU’s Big Ten Tournament loss aside, it was a heck of a nice day to be in Fort Myers.

Taking on the heat — and bar-hopping — in style. Marco Polo by Life/After/Denim. Premium Washed Khakis by Dockers. Renshaw Sneakers by Brooks Heritage. Calypso Watch and Runaway Aviators by MVMT Watches. Bracelet by Miansai. Glasses by Frameri.

As the sun rose on Saturday, it hit me that I still had two full days left in Florida — that’s quite the treat, and it made it all the more enjoyable to get out and enjoy more sun on Saturday. As you’d expect, I tried to make it a point to bring along my best spring bar crawl gear . For stops at the seriously cool Bury Me Brewing (themed like a craft beer graveyard) and a quick pint (and tasty chicken wings!) at The Lodge, pieces like my Life/After/Denim Marco Polo proved well-crafted to beat the heat. I kept things equally casual on my bottom half, opting for a new pair of the Dockers Premium Washed Khaki in a mobile Slim Tapered fit. Featuring washed stretch twill and a Florida-friendly shade of light blue, I’d opt you reach for a similar pair when you want to look put-together, yet feel casual and relaxed.

Does it get any better than hanging out in the beautiful Florida sun? Marco Polo by Life/After/Denim. Renshaw Sneakers by Brooks Heritage. Calypso Watch and Runaway Aviators by MVMT Watches.

On the footwear front, the crisp Brooks Heritage Renshaw  was again my pick, not least for the way it added a bit of sharp style to the combo. And for getting around Fort Myers and heading to evening dinner at the terrific Courtney’s, my MVMT Watches Calypso Watch and MVMT Watches Runaway Aviators proved to be prime accessories picks. Given the cold weather that swept through NYC this past weekend, I was more than happy to have some ample outdoor time sipping on tasty craft beer and wearing my favorite new warm-weather menswear. Not bad, ehh?

Beckett Simonon

The right way to finish off a Florida trip. T-shirt by Todd Snyder x Champion. Ace Shorts by Mack Weldon. Legend Sneakers by SeaVees. Calypso Watch and Runaway Aviators by MVMT Watches. Explorer’s Cap by Huckberry

Even with Saturday in the books, I still had nearly a full day in Florida prior to my evening flight back to chilly New York City. So, what else to do but grab comfortable, casual style essentials?  For yours truly, that tends to start with a well-fitting tee — is it any wonder that Todd Snyder x Champion T-shirts fit the bill perfectly? And what better way to soak in some sun than with the tailored-yet-casual Ace Short from Mack Weldon? Of course, I find that SeaVees sneakers are the perfect way to complement a casual outfit, especially the spring-ready Legend Sneaker Regatta. And to take on a great lunch at Big Blue Brewing, there were no better picks than my MVMT Watches Calypso Watch and MVMT Watches Runaway Aviators, along with my Huckberry Explorer’s Cap.  Unfortunately, the day drew to a close all too quickly — with slightly chillier temps in the forecast, it was time to trade in my Mack Weldon shorts for stretch twill pants and swap my sneakers for chukkas.

Greats

It’s always such a treat to head down to Florida and get some great time in the sun and sand — even if it’s only for a quick weekend. The chance to catch up with family and celebrate my dad’s big day was fantastic, too. From the beautiful beaches of Fort Myers to the great craft beer and food scene downtown (and throughout the city), this trip really had it all. Of course, we’re back to the grind today in NYC (follow along on Instagram to see how I’m fighting the chill). With that being said, I already can’t wait to get back to Fort Myers. In the meantime, you can check back here tomorrow for a new St. Patrick’s Day menswear ensemble, and you can join us on Wednesday for a look at what to wear for March Madness.

Until the next trip — thanks for tagging along!

-Beau

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Huckberry Combat B33 GMT Watch

An eye-catching watch with durable, tough specs and made-in-America construction.

An eye-catching watch with durable, tough specs and made-in-America construction.

Who needs a new casual watch for spring? You, my friend? Perhaps. If so, the Huckberry Combat B33 GMT Watch just might be the timepiece you’re going to want to pick up — and wear as much as you can. You might recognize it from this site’s feature on what to wear for the polar vortex, but you should absolutely consider this timepiece for the warmer spring months. That goes for all sorts of style situations, too — from dressing for a rainy spring weekend  to wearing your new favorite polo in style, there’s little that this watch can’t do. And as we often talk about here on The Style Guide,  it’s worth paying attention to the small things — say, the type of watch you’ve got on your wrist. Finding the right casual timepiece can be somewhat tricky, especially if you’re just building a watch collection. If you go too far down the road in terms of a rugged, functional timepiece, you might end up with a runner’s watch — to be worn only when, y’know, running. And on the other hand, it’s easy to throw a lot of money out the window in a hurry if you’re after, say, a reliable dive watch like the one worn by James Bond. So, the Combat B33 GMT  hits all the right marks. For starters, it’s produced exclusively by Lum-Tec for our pals at Huckberry  — in that regard, it’s a partnership that merges the best of high-quality production with impeccable casual style. The Combat B33 GMT  is field-tested  extensively, designed in San Francisco, and packed with reliable specs that you’re going to love — I hope?

Between the NATO strap and the stainless steel case, this watch can handle quite a bit.

Between the NATO strap and the stainless steel case, this watch can handle quite a bit.

Clocking in at 43mm, the case diameter is beefy and substantial, yet not overly large. The stainless steel construction is what you want in a watch that’s going to take a beating — I’d wear this timepiece to summer music festivals, with stylish beach gear and certainly when dressing for a spring bar crawl. With water resistance functionality up to 650 feet, you can even take it for a swim. The crisply designed face is built for more than just regular excursions, though — the GMT hand allows you to set a second time zone, and the Super-Luminova material on the Huckberry Combat B33 GMT ensures you never lose sight of that dial. But again, why this particular watch if you already own a casual NATO strap watch like the Timex x Todd Snyder Mod Watch?
Beckett Simonon
Well, it definitely pays to have a well-rounded watch collection. And I’d wager that there’s not a timepiece in your arsenal that’s designed, assembled and tested in the good old U.S. of A. Plus, you’re really getting two watches for the price of one — the Combat B33 GMT comes with both a durable black slip-through nylon NATO strap and a brown leather slip-through strap. The leather strap makes the Combat B33 GMT the type of watch you could wear to the office with a slim light blue polo and classic khaki chinos for a seriously stylish Casual Friday look. Then, when it’s time to hit up happy hour, there’s no need to worry about taking off your watch as you handle a few pitchers of craft beer — ehh? If all of that sounds good to you, pick up the Huckberry Combat B33 GMT Watch and wear it with warm-weather staples like a  stylish short-sleeve chambray shirt and khaki shorts just as soon as you can.

Enjoy the transition to spring and have a great weekend,

-Beau

Get the Huckberry Combat B33 GMT Watch now via Huckberry.

Frank & Oak

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: Investment-Worthy Watches, Best Men’s Denim and the Huckberry Explorer’s Shirt

I don’t know about you, but I’m happy to report that today’s Friday Read on The Style Guide is coming to you from sunny Florida, where I’m getting some much-needed R&R (and a few Coronas) this weekend. Last time around, I headed to Fort Myers to celebrate a Florida Christmas, and I’m just as excited to be back now.  You can, of course, look for a full travel style post incoming on Monday and in the meantime, stick around for a few choice #menswear news items below. Before we get going, layer up for the weekend with the Huckberry Explorer’s Shirt — as profiled on this site last week, in fact.  And if you happen to be in a warmer climate, get acquainted with how to wear you new favorite polo this spring. Oh, and you’d do well to catch up with everything you missed on the blog this week, including another entry in our #OOTD series.  For, follow along with the warm-weather style gear and my Florida adventures as they happen via Instagram and Twitter. Cheers!

  • Esteemed Esquire style editor Matthew Marden offered up a nice quick-hit look at his fashion week trip to Europe to cover the world of global fashion — and specifically, brands showing both their men’s and women’s collections at once. What does this mean for all of us across the pond? Marden argues that big-ticket brands who show both men’s and women’s collections at the same time — giants like Burberry — create a clear and cohesive vision across an entire brand. That’s quite neat, when you think about it — ehh?
  • This was alluded to above, but you best listen up now — the Huckberry Explorer’s Shirt is the tough shirt — and shirt-jacket — you need as the weather turns south this month. Pick it up in the crisp Natural colorway, wear it with slim olive chinos and durable leather boots, and call it a day (or rather, get out and have some adventures!).
  • Need a new watch? Of course you do. And Gear Patrol argues that should buy just one — only one of these five investment-worthy watches and wear it all the time, in each and every style situation. If a stainless steel dive watch isn’t necessarily your thing, check out my picks for the best men’s leather watches.
  • While we’re on the topic of new #menswear — need a new spring bag? The folks at Timbuk2 just might have you sorted out. What’s that, you say? Tomorrow (that’s March 11th), the brand is launching a new bag collaboration with San Francisco street artist Apexer as part of the brand’s Future Shapers campaign. The campaign is designed to showcase unique individuals who drive forward change in their hometowns — like Apexer, an artist with a history of work across the globe and a commitment to San Francisco that’s echoed by the fact that the run of bags is sewn in the city’s Mission District. The line includes a classic messenger bag, a tuck pack and a compact roll-top bag called the Mini Prospect Pack, all done up in a unique kaleidoscope and textile pattern.
  • And lastly — I had a heck of a fun time putting together a full list of the best men’s denim jeans for GearMoose. I think you’ll recognize quite a few picks on that rundown, that’s for sure.

Last but not least — one more #menswear item for you …

  • Given that the weather has been so up-and-down, I’d wager you’re going to need a great spring jacket — that’s why I rounded up the best men’s spring outerwear last week on The Manual. Give it a read, suit up and get ready!

OK, we’re wrapped up for the week now — get out there and have some fun this weekend!

-Beau

Beckett Simonon

by Beau H.

2017 Spring Style Wish List

If it feels weird to be talking about spring — and this site’s Spring Style Wish List particularly — you’re not alone.  It seems not too long ago we were talking about the best men’s winter boots and stylish winter accessories — now, it’s not quite time to shelve those pieces yet, but let’s at least look to the season ahead. What do you say? Spring style can be quite an enjoyable time in the #menswear world — you still get to incorporate classic pieces, like a slim chambray shirt and classic leather chukka boots, and yet you get to do so with layered looks and tough spring outerwear. It’s not quite close (at all) to beach weather — and that means you don’t have to dress for summer heat  quite yet.  And of course, that pesky snow is melting away slowly but surely — break out that spring gear, folks! So, it’s a great time all around. I’d say you’ll certainly recognize some of the brands — and perhaps the pieces themselves — in the below wish list. What’s on your wish list? Weigh in via The Style Guide Facebook page, and follow along via Instagram to see how I style some of these picks. Cheers and happy shopping!

Beckett Simonon

#1. Abercrombie & Fitch Bonded Mac Jacket — $99

Your new favorite spring jacket -- perfect for rainy, breezy days & plenty of time in between.

Your new favorite spring jacket — perfect for rainy, breezy days & plenty of time in between.

 

Yes indeed, we’re starting things off with an excellent, classic and sharp jacket from the newly revamped Abercrombie & Fitch. The brand excels at creating modern updates to timeless, tried-and-true styles — we have former Club Monaco designer Aaron Levine to thank for that. And this cotton mac jacket is the perfect spring color and style; it’s fit for slipping on over a navy blazer or teaming with something as simple as a merino henley & light wash denim.  A&F certainly has plenty Wish List-worthy pieces — stick with us for more…

#2. Abercrombie & Fitch Garment-Dyed Oxford — $39

af-garment-dyed-oxford

Just when you thought A&F couldn’t get any better — they did. Right? Right.

Lest you thought we were done with picks from Abercrombie & Fitch, think again. Like the Abercrombie & Fitch Wool Shirt — an ideal winter layering piece — this simple-yet-stylish Garment-Dyed Oxford could be your new favorite spring shirt.  There’s nothing too fancy about it; it’s just a crisp silhouette with vintage-inspired detailing via the washed fabric, plus neat design touches in the way of the button chest pocket. Team this with sharp leather sneakers and stone chinos for easygoing seasonal style.

#3. Taylor Stitch Merino Henley — $98

Taylor Stitch

Potentially your new favorite spring layer, courtesy of Taylor Stitch.

If you didn’t know already, we here at The Style Guide are HUGE fans of Taylor Stitch. But who isn’t, right? The brand makes essential pieces for every season, and something as simple and yet well-made as the Taylor Stitch Merino Henley is a pretty easy choice when it comes to spring layering thanks to its breathable, comfortable fabric and great fit. Wear it on its own or wear it under a waxed trucker jacket for tough, effective style when it’s breezy out. Heck, wear this crisp Merino Henley under the  Abercrombie & Fitch Bonded Mac Jacket  as you dash out for a weekend coffee in the rain.

#4. Jack Mason Aviator 3-Hand Watch — $174.98

Jack Mason

A handsome, substantial watch made for plenty of spring style situations.

Texas-based Jack Mason does an outstanding job when it comes to translating rugged, masculine and stylish inspiration into unique timepieces. Take the strong, sturdy Aviator 3-Hand Watch Featuring a handsome brown leather strap and a unique gold case-black dial combo, it’s the ideal casual spring watch. With a substantial — but not overly large — 42mm case and handy features like Super Luminova markings and an aviation-inspired dial design, it’ll definitely be one of the more unique timepieces in your watch collection.

#5. Life/After/Denim Classic 5-Pocket Pant in White — $148

Don’t be afraid of 5-pocket pants, especially in white — style them with a chambray shirt and suede chukkas.

Seeing as they make such high-quality, coveted goods, it should come as no shock that Life/After/Denim menswear sells out in a hurry. The Classic 5-Pocket Pant in White is one such popular offering, and it’s easy to see why. White 5-pocket pants are a great way to break out of a dark denim rut in the warmer months, and the 5-pocket cut here should be tailored, trim and easily wearable with everything from an indigo pocket tee and suede Chelsea boots to stylish leather dress shoes — trust me.

Honorable Mention: Brooks Heritage Renshaw Sneakers — $89.99

A new classic, based on … well …. an old classic.

It’s always mighty tough to narrow down any Style Wish List to five picks, and these retro-inspired, unique Brooks Heritage sneakers just missed the cut. They still get the nod here for an honorable mention though, as these kicks are a new offering from a brand that’s perfecting the right balance between vintage style inspiration and modern wearability. I’ve worn Brooks Heritage sneakers on a summer trip to Las Vegas and a winter trip to Florida, and I’m excited to break out this pair in the warmer months ahead.
Frank & Oak

Alright, folks — who’s primed for spring style? Ideally, the above Wish List picks will get you thinking and planning all sorts of #OOTD looks in the weeks and months ahead. Updated takes on modern classics — like the Abercrombie & Fitch Bonded Mac Jacket and the Garment-Dyed Oxford  are fresh, quick ways to upgrade your style, and you shouldn’t forget about the layering potential and functionality of an excellent base layer like the Taylor Stitch Merino Henley. Lest we forget about your accessories game, don’t sleep on the toughness, affordability and handsome style of the Jack Mason Aviator 3-Hand Watch or the easygoing spring vibes of a crisp pair of tailored 5-pocket pants from Life/After/Denim. OK, all set with those notes? Shopping cart full? Good deal!

Good lookin’ out and stay stylish,

-Beau

by Beau H.

#OOTD: Everyday Spring 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.

Thanks for joining us again today on The Style Guide — let’s get to it! Alright, who’s excited that it’s March? I sure am. Namely, that means we’re transitioning into a great season for menswear, and that also gives you plenty of chances to break out everyday spring style looks. We’re talking versatile, comfortable pieces built for layering — yet these are also pieces that work on their own, and can be added or subtracted depending on the weather.  Whether that means dressing for spring rain  or heading out on a weekend coffee date, we’ve got pieces you’ll recognize, want to buy and want to wear.  That includes classic pieces (cough, the Todd Snyder x Champion Pocket Sweatshirt, cough) and slightly edgier staples. OK, all good? Keep up with other #menswear inspiration on the daily via Instagram or Twitter — and weigh in on this look via the comments, as always.

Working in the versatile, the classic and the new into one outfit.

Working in the versatile, the classic and the new into one outfit.

The Sweatshirt: Todd Snyder x Champion Pocket Sweatshirt, $98 — Recognize this sweater? Of course you do — right? Todd Snyder is an American menswear luminary precisely for pieces like the lauded Pocket Sweatshirt, and it’s a nice, easy-to-wear spring layering option.

The Shirt: Abercrombie & Fitch Two-Pocket Chambray Shirt, $39 — There’s really never a bad time to wear a classic chambray shirt, is there?  This one is laidback, casual and versatile.

The Pants: Life/After/Denim Classic 5-Pocket Pant in White, $148 — White pants — even in a straightforward five-pocket silhouette — can be a bit of a leap stylistically. Don’t worry here, though — the tailored fit and use of other classic staples (like the Pocket Sweatshirt) helps dial these in.

The Boots: Astorflex Bootflex in Dark Khaki, $169.98 — A recent release from Astorflex by way of Huckberry, these lace-up boots are high-quality and no-frills — exactly what you need for stomping through inclement spring weather (just be sure to waterproof ’em).

The Belt: Abercrombie & Fitch Woven Leather Belt, $44 — We’re dialing in casual style right down to the last detail with this #OOTD — a woven leather belt provides some nice texture & casual style to complement the Astorflex Bootflex in particular.

The Watch: Timex + Todd Snyder Military Watch, $138 — What better way to complement the Pocket Sweatshirt than with another stylish, sharp and durable Todd Snyder piece? The Military Watch could be your new favorite casual watch — trust me.

Frank & Oak

The Hat: Huckberry Explorer’s Cap, $39.98 — Told you we were keeping things laidback, didn’t I? Now, you can’t wear a ballcap every day, but if you’re checking out of the office early on a Friday (for example) … toss on the Explorer’s Cap as you head to a patio lunch.
Beckett Simonon

The Bag: Nisolo Lori Tote, $134.98 — When you want a durable yet easy-to-carry bag, reach for the handsome Nisolo Lori Tote. It’s handmade with minimal construction and beautiful leather that should develop a nice patina.
So, with that — let’s wrap up this #OOTD, shall we? Comfortable layering pieces like the Todd Snyder x Champion Pocket Sweatshirt are easy to wear no matter the season, and a slim chambray shirt perfectly complements the more fashion-forward white 5-pocket pants. Given the company’s reputation for quality, sustainability and durability, the Astorflex Bootflex in Dark Khaki should also be an extremely reliable spring footwear pick, finished off handsomely by the excellent Timex + Todd Snyder Military Watch. Of course, keeping your accessories in line is crucial, and the textured Abercrombie & Fitch Woven Leather Belt is a nice way to do that — as is the Huckberry Explorer’s Cap. Got that all together? Shopping cart full? Join us tomorrow for a helpful Spring Style Wish List — and we’ll see you out there this spring!
-Beau

by Beau H.

Style Guide Recommends: Custom Suiting

Editor’s note: Style Guide Recommends is a new, ongoing series covering just that — recos on all manner of menswear and lifestyle topics from The Style Guide.

Your new favorite suite just might come from Alan David Custom.

On the go in Brooklyn with an easy-to-wear suit. In fact, your new favorite suite just might come from Alan David Custom

First off, welcome to another Style Guide post — and the first in a new series we’re introducing here on the blog! By we, I mean me — but I digress. Think of this as an extension of our other series, from Online Shopping Picks  to our Style Pick of the Week entries. Now, those are all recommendations in and of themselves, but the Style Guide Recommends series is going to be a bit different. We’re talking concepts or ideas versus products, but we’ll also talk about music, grooming — you name it. So, if there’s a great beer you should try, a place you should visit, some music to which you should listen … it might pop up here. We’ll figure it out as we go, but today’s entry is an exciting one — it’s all about why you should consider going custom for your next suit, and I teamed up with the great folks at Alan David Custom to do just that, and I’ve been exceptionally pleased with my custom suit. If you try a similar approach, I’m sure you’ll feel the same way.

A beautiful suit with nice, refined details. Definitely a new recommendation. Watch by MVMT Watches.

A beautiful suit with nice, refined details. Definitely a new recommendation. Watch by MVMT Watches.

Now, there are all sorts of menswear apps, brands and stores that offer made-to-measure suiting options, but a custom suit is a different ballgame (in fact, my friend Barron at Effortless Gent dives into custom versus made-to-measure suiting quite extensively). And for those of us in NYC and the surrounding areas, Alan David Custom is definitely a great way to go. The brand excels in handmade custom suits finished in the tradition of bespoke tailoring — don’t let that scare you away, though. Alan David Custom is certainly expensive for those of us shopping on a budget, but the difference is in the details (as we say with most style upgrades, ehh?). And the company’s history is exactly what you want when it comes to a great suit. Namely, they’ve been making luxurious tailored wear since 1926 — needless to say, the company’s staff know more about tailoring than any of us ever could (I’d argue). With that being said, the company’s adage is fitting — “The quality of a suit is remembered long after its price is forgotten.” Yes indeed, the difference is in the details. Of course, you can’t forget stylish accessories, like a great leather dress watch or stylish men’s dress shoes but again … start with an excellent suit, and the rest falls into place.

Go with a slim silhouette for versatility and ease of wear -- even when on the move after a long day. Shirt by Twillory. Watch by MVMT Watches. Brown leather wingtips by Johnston & Murphy. Socks by American Trench. Glasses by Frameri.

Go with a slim silhouette for versatility and ease of wear — even when on the move after a long day. Shirt by Twillory. Watch by MVMT Watches. Brown leather wingtips by Johnston & Murphy. Socks by American Trench. Glasses by Frameri.

For starters, Alan David Custom doesn’t use glue in its finishing process, resulting in garments that drape nicely and fit perfectly.  That explains the purchase price of the suits — ranging from $1,195 to $2,495, based on factors ranging from fabrics to cut and styling. Yes, it’s an investment — but again, one that’ll pay off the more you wear it. The measuring process — which is surprisingly quick — dials in a suit jacket and trousers that couldn’t fit any better (and I’d say it’s certainly much more accurate than taking measurements yourself and submitting them online). And the level of detail is exceptional — from your choice of fabric to suit color (I went with a heightened blue), lining color and other small, essential tailored details (side tabs on trousers and the addition of a ticket pocket, for one). The side tabs are a touch I’m particularly pleased with — it adds another level of refinement and creates clean lines without belt loops.
Beckett Simonon

Just one of the ways to wear a beautiful blue custom suit. Shirt by Standard Shirt. Tie by J. Crew Factory. Pocket square by Ties.com. Glasses by Frameri.

Just one of the ways to wear a beautiful blue custom suit. Shirt by Standard Shirt. Tie and pocket square by Ties.com. Glasses by Frameri.

It’s these little details — plus a superb fit — that make it such an easy suit to wear, either with a crisp white shirt and a classic winter-weight tie (as seen above) or a little more casually, yet still tailored (with a classic blue dress shirt from Twillory). Of course, the crisp Conard Wingtip from Johnston & Murphy, plus well-made American Trench socks, are the ideal complements to such a sharp suit. And one could argue that the ability to wear this suit multiple ways (and with great accessories) is why it’s so important to go custom — particularly with an  investment-worthy option from Alan David Custom. Note that they also provide a helpful first-time buyer’s discount, and they can turn suits around in as little as 10 days (seriously quick, yet still high-quality). Crucially, they also offer free lifetime alterations. Yes, free lifetime alterations. Heck, if you’re visiting New York, it’s worth setting up an appointment, truly. In lieu of hitting up Alan David Custom, you can look into other made-to-measure online suiting options (such as Indochino or Black Lapel), but again, if you’ve been very, very good this year and would love a high-quality, luxurious and lifetime suit, Alan David Custom is your best bet.

Thanks for joining us on the first entry in the Style Guide Recommends series — we’ll have much more soon.

Thanks for reading and stay stylish,

-Beau

Huckberry

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Huckberry Explorer’s Shirt

Available in a plethora of colors and made with durability, style and toughness in mind -- the Explorer's Shirt from Huckberry and Taylor Stitch.

Available in a plethora of colors and made with durability, style and toughness in mind — the Explorer’s Shirt from Huckberry and Taylor Stitch.

Although we’re eagerly looking toward spring here at The Style Guide, we aren’t quite there yet — and that’s why you’ll need the Huckberry Explorer’s Shirt these next few weeks. While it’s tempting to stow away your tough winter accessories in favor of lighter fare, transitional spring style still calls for gear that’s a little heartier than normal. There’s certainly a chance of rain, and heck …. a few snow flurries? Sorry, folks … had to go there. With that being said, the Huckberry Explorer’s Shirt has a lot of great things going for it — namely, it’s made in tandem by Huckberry and a near-weekly Style Guide favorite, Taylor Stitch. That the two companies share office space is fitting, because they both do an admirable job carrying the flag for high-quality, rugged and timeless #menswear. And as you’ve seen from this site’s Style Pick of the Week series, there’s a lot that Taylor Stitch does well — including stellar shirting options like the Crater Shirt. In this instance, the Explorer’s Shirt kicks things up a notch, starting with the durable and tough stone-washed duck canvas exterior — that makes it one of the best men’s overshirts you can buy, and simultaneously, one of the best men’s workshirts to buy, too. Ya dig? Of course, with all great gear from Taylor Stitch and Huckberry, there are plenty of extra touches that make it worth buying (especially in the versatile and unique Natural colorway seen here). Keep in mind that the Explorer’s Shirt is also available in a plethora of colors, from a handsome Rust Gold to a faded Dusty Blue. Regardless of shirt color, you get tremendous quality any way you slice it.

Beckett Simonon

Tough brass buttons, a clean fit and sturdy fabric make this shirt a winner.

Tough brass buttons, a clean fit and sturdy fabric make this shirt a winner.

Heck, even the buttons on the Explorer’s Shirt are sturdy — made with brass, they’re a vintage-inspired touch that lends this piece more of a shirt-jacket feel than something like a classic chambray shirt. In that case, you could absolutely layer the Huckberry Explorer’s Shirt  with just about any combo you can dream up, be it over a timeless Oxford shirt or your favorite long-sleeve henley (particularly a henley — talk about a one-two combo ideal for weekend style). And because both brands build their gear with paramount functionality  in mind, the Huckberry Explorer’s Shirt features an inner chest pocket with a neat, screen-printed map design and enough space for your everyday carry. Heck,  Huckberry  even notes that you can treat the shirt with Otterwax to make it weatherproof — learn more here.  When you can get a shirt that doubles as a jacket, fights off the rain, layers up easily and stands out stylishly with everything from slim dark denim to classic chinos, you should absolutely buy it. From there, wear the Explorer’s Shirt plenty — ideally with other Taylor Stitch gear, yes?

Would you buy the Huckberry Explorer’s Shirt? How would you style it?

Frank & Oak