Month / May 2017

by Beau H.

Online Shopping Picks: The Best Sneakers to Buy for Spring and Summer

Do you have your pair of spring and summer kicks sorted out? Better yet, do you have any of the best sneakers to buy for spring and summer? If not, we’re setting out to change that in a big way today — and I think you’ll be mighty pleased with the #menswear picks we’ve got on tap.  Whereas in the past, sneakers might have meant athletic shoes stamped with a large logo, you need not fear — today’s breed of kicks are essential, clean and crisp. They’re fit for wearing with everything from slim light wash denim to chino shorts and a heathered pocket tee. And yes, the right pair of spring sneakers can even work with a lightweight navy blazer (not to mention a standout leather jacket at your next spring bar crawl or casual weekend outing).  So, where exactly are we getting these sneakers from? You’ll notice picks from Style Guide favorites like SeaVees and Abercrombie & Fitch, among others. I’ll leave the rest to your imagination, though. Read on, shop away and chime in with any questions on Twitter — I’ll respond just as quick as I can (even if I’m getting another cup of coffee).

#1. Abercrombie & Fitch x Tretorn Nylite Sneakers — $70

A classic silhouette updated for today’s modern man — at a low price and in a neat fabric.

We here in The Style Guide’s crowded fashion department of one have always loved the pleasingly streamlined, easy to wear, versatile Tretorn Nylite Sneaker. The style is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, in fact — that means it’s a classic primed for an update. Who better to do it than the new head of design at A&F, Mr. Aaron Levine? Levine’s work at Abercrombie — including heritage-inspired pieces like the Abercrombie & Fitch Wool Shirt — riffs on the classics in modern ways, and these garment-dyed sneakers are certainly modern enough for the rest of us. Buy ’em now and wear ’em out, especially with rolled light wash denim and a patterned shirt.

#2. House of Future Original Sneaker — $76.98

House of Future Original Sneaker

A classic-looking sneaker available at an attainable price — nothing gets better.

Want the look of a modern-day classic like the Common Projects Achilles — as clean of a white leather sneaker as it gets — for way less cash? Enter the House of Future Original Sneaker, currently available now for a downright steal via Huckberry — for that price, we’ll let the red heel accent slide. These are the sneakers to wear with an unlined navy blazer and chambray trousers on a breezy Friday, and you could even team them up with casual linen trousers and an indigo pocket tee for an extra-long weekend brunch. The fact that you get a super-clean silhouette and excellent quality? Well … what are you waiting for?

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#3. SeaVees Maslon Desert Boot — $84.98

SeaVees

The cut of a chukka and the weight (and good looks) of a sneaker.

Did you think we’d make it through a post on the best men’s sneakers without covering off on a Style Guide favorite? Surely not. The laidback cool, clean design and easygoing style potential of SeaVees sneakers makes the brand a consistent winner — not to mention the attainable pricing and spring break-ready style.  That’s why the Maslon Desert Boot is a choice pick for your next spring or summer sneaker upgrade.  Blending the DNA of a boot and a sneaker with a poplin twill upper in a head-turning shade of deep navy, these are the sneakers you should wear with a striped tee and classic khaki chinos.

#4. Johnston and Murphy Allister Lace-up — $145

Johnston and Murphy

A simple court-style shoe with neat styling details.

We’re back to discussing cleanly crafted, sharp-looking white sneakers here for option number four — and with plenty good reason. Johnston and Murphy has taken the same approach that makes its stylish leather boots so good, and translated that to sharp low-top white sneakers. With a textured leather upper and the styling to mimic a classic court shoe, the Allister Lace-up is the sneaker to wear with olive chinos and a heather grey polo for a Casual Friday look that’s a significant (yes, significant) style upgrade.

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#5. Pikolinos Vic Trainers — $200

Pikolinos

Rich craftsmanship and distinctive leather set these apart.

We’re all about reaching for unexpected sneaker styles with a touch of flair — provided they’re made with proper craftsmanship, that is. And in this case, the Pikolinos Vic Trainers  blend the feel of a pair of retro runner sneakers with the rich leather and comfort for which Pikolinos is known. If ever you’ve wanted to try out the navy blazer-light wash denim-leather sneakers combo that I so love, these are the ones to do it with — the brown leather makes them feel a bit more like a dress shoe (just a bit).

Honorable Mention: SeaVees Mariner Boot — $178

SeaVees Mariner Boot

A high-top sneaker crafted with durable fabric for winning style throughout spring and summer.

If you follow along with ye olde Style Guide, you’re aware that we love the SeaVees Mariner Boot for its blend of durability, rain-ready style and clean looks. In a cool and unique shade of olive, they’re a neat pairing with light grey or navy chinos and a white henley for a mix of high and low. Plus, they’ll work nicely whether you’re stomping around a summer music festival or working your away from coffee shop to coffee shop.

And that’ll nicely finish up our runthrough of the best men’s sneakers for spring. From the uniquely durable and weather-ready SeaVees Mariner Boot to the smart, retro-yet-modern Pikolinos Vic Trainers, your closet should be filled with options for the season ahead. A clean and classic pair of sneakers like the House of Future Original Sneaker are suitable for occasions both slightly dressier and laidback, and the Johnston and Murphy Allister Lace-up is similarly versatile for work or play. And as we covered above, the Maslon Desert Boot can pull double-duty on a spring road trip or a weekend coffee run. Round out your rotation with the Abercrombie & Fitch x Tretorn Nylite Sneakers, and you should be set this season! What do you think of the above picks? Feel free to hop on over to The Style Guide Facebook page or leave a missive in the comments.

Stay stylish,

-Beau

by Beau H.

#OOTD: The New Chambray Shirt to Wear This Season

Join us today for another entry in the #OOTD series. If you want to know all about the new chambray shirt to wear this season … it’s your lucky day. From upgrading your pocket tee to wearing a patterned shirt the right way, we’ve certainly covered a lot of ground in all matters spring style — and we’re continuing to do so today, with both sustainability and great looks in mind. Indeed, in the same way that a chambray shirt can work handsomely with a rugged shawl-collar cardigan in winter or a waxed trucker jacket in the fall,  so too can it work in the spring — namely, with a little less fabric in the sleeves. That’s where the United By Blue Wenlock Chambray Shirt comes into play. You might recognize it from a recent Style Pick of the Week entry, and it’s taking center stage now (it’s also been a hot seller via Huckberry, so I’d look to slim short-sleeve chambray shirting from Old Navy to replicate this look). That being said, let’s get to the most important part — your purchase of this shirt helps remove a pound of trash from oceans and waterways, part of the brand’s commitment to the environment. And why should you buy it? Plenty o’ reasons. It features a neat mini-plus sign pattern — just eye-catching enough — and a reliably tailored fit (no baggy shirts — who’s with me?). Both of those features make it perfect for everything from exploring Brooklyn to heading out on a weekend coffee date — and it also can team up with slim tan chinos and a pair of stylish men’s dress shoes for  summer half-day at the office (and happy hour afterward). Alright, so that’s the shirt to wear this season — but what to wear it with? Stick around for the below #OOTD. Stay stylish!

Pairing a cool chambray shirt with slim five-pocket pants, a lightweight bomber and simple sneakers — not bad at all.

The Shirt: United By Blue Wenlock Chambray Shirt, $68 — See, we told you this shirt would look great — right? It’s the ideal way to start a spring style ensemble — slim, unique and ready for just about anything.

The Jacket: Public Rec Apparel Crosstown Bomber, $129 — For those spring and summer evenings when it gets a bit breezy, the Public Rec Apparel Crosstown Bomber is the perfect weight and the perfect silhouette.

The Pants: Flint and Tinder 365 Pant in Earth, $98 — Are you sick of hearing about Flint and Tinder yet? Not quite? Good. The Flint and Tinder 365 Pant in Earth should prove tough, versatile and perfect for situations casual and slightly dressier — particularly alongside the United By Blue Wenlock Chambray Shirt.

The Sneakers: Dr. Scholl’s Rythms Sneaker in Grey Nubuck, $89.99 — For a bit of monochromatic style up against the Public Rec Apparel Crosstown Bomber, reach for affordable, crisp and classic grey sneakers.

The Socks: Darn Tough No Show Ultra-Light Cushion Socks, $29.98 — Because every pair of stylish spring sneakers deserves great socks, get this two-pack of tough (literally) no-show socks.

The Watch: Jack Mason Aviator 3-Hand Watch, $205 —  Tough, rugged and yet refined at the same time, the Jack Mason Aviator 3-Hand Watch is your answer to that age-old question: “What watch do I wear with this outfit?”
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The Sunglasses: Norton Point Charlie 014 Sunglasses, $145 — Blending retro style with a decent price and great quality, the Norton Point Charlie 014 Sunglasses are a great pick-up in advance of summer — truly.

The Everyday Necessity: Nisolo Lori Leather Tote, $134.98 — More than $130 for a leather tote? Well, when it’s an extraordinarily high-quality bag that looks smart alongside your everyday carry, you should give it a shot.
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OK — all ready to wear your new favorite chambray shirt for spring and summer? Of course you are. The building blocks of this outfit are essentials every guy should have in his closet — the United By Blue Wenlock Chambray Shirt is just the beginning. It should look right at home alongside a versatile pair of pants like the Flint and Tinder 365 Pant in Earth. And simple grey sneakers are a nice complement to a casual spring jacket — the Public Rec Apparel Crosstown Bomber is the jacket you need now. Make no mistake, on-point accessories are also clutch — the Norton Point Charlie 014 Sunglasses could be your new go-to pair of shades, while the Nisolo Lori Leather Tote is a reliable and simple way to carry around your goods. All set for this season’s adventures? I know I am!

As always — stay stylish,

-Beau

by Beau H.

Style Q+A: Designing Your Space with Oxford Pennant

It’s an oft-repeated adage here at The Style Guide — small style upgrades really can make a big difference.  Whether that means stepping up your grooming game or upgrading your casual shirt, there are lots of little areas where the end results are self-evident if you focus on the little steps along the way. Be it looking for a better-fitting shirt or refined suede Chelsea boots, it’s all in the details. That’s particularly true when it comes to areas outside the realm of #menswear — namely, upgrading your home goods or upgrading your office. It really is underrated. Working and living in a pleasing environment surrounded by things you enjoy is one of the small pleasures of life — look at the home of ex-J. Crew menswear head Frank Muytjens. And so, it makes sense that we’re talking upgraded home goods (and an upgraded life!) with the subjects of today’s Style Q+A, the fine folks at Oxford Pennant.

It was after a fine, stylish Sunday brunch (and requisite menswear blogging) that I strolled into one of my favorite Brooklyn menswear shops, the crisply designed and handsomely outfitted Modern Anthology. And what did I happen upon but a cabinet and wall adorned with unique pennants? Hard-to-place, at once masculine and modern, yet vintage. Those pennants, folks, were from Oxford Pennant. That leads us nicely into our latest Q+A, as it were. I’ve been mighty pleased with the pennant I picked up that day, which you might recognize from my Instagram. Hanging on my wall, it serves as a daily reminder to work harder, think forward and push myself — and it looks cool, too. Know that in addition to vintage-inspired pennants, the brand also makes handsome championship banners that add color and instant style to any blank wall. It’s certainly very likely that you’ll want more than one piece from the assortment — and that’s a great thing. With the spirit of home upgrades in mind, I caught up with  Oxford Pennant co-founder Dave Horesh to talk why you need a pennant (or championship flag) in your home or office, why it looks great, and what you can do to instantly upgrade your space. Again, folks — the small style upgrades matter, and Oxford Pennant can help you make more than a few.

The Style Guide: What spurred your moment of inspiration to start the brand?
Oxford Pennant: We never set out to start a brand. We’re from Buffalo, which is a city that looks back in time as much as it looks forward. There’s a fixation on the past that’s inescapable here. Brett (my business partner) and I would go to estate sales and pick through huge collections of old pennants from the early 20th century. To us, it always seemed like a piece of Americana that had lost its popularity. One day, we decided to make a batch of “Let’s Go Buffalo” pennants for friends and family. We posted them on Instagram, the photo caught on and people began reaching out to us to have their own pennants made. We filled those orders and folks began posting photos of their custom pennants on Instagram. Then their friends started asking where they could have pennants made, and a company was born.

Sutro Footwear

A close-up of one of the brand’s championship banners.

TSG: A pennant or a flag might not be the first thing a guy thinks of when decorating — what do you think those pieces can add to a space in terms of design?

OP: You know, a flag is something that’s always used as a symbol of pride and identity. Pennants are essentially a small, house-sized flag. I think they’re a pretty clear opportunity for self-expression. We started using the tagline “Celebrate Everything” when it became clear to us that we were making pennants to commemorate the things that bring people joy in their lives. Their hometown, a wedding, a concert or even a feeling. I think pennants are the ultimate souvenir to chronicle and commemorate one’s life.
Oxford Pennant

A daily reminder from Oxford Pennant to “hustle” — get it?

TSG: For the guy who’s just starting out decorating his space — be it a desk or a dorm room or an apartment — what are some tips you’d share?

    • Start with the classics. Estate sales are a great place to find quality items.
    • A space is always a work in progress. You’ll never be done.
    • Get as many plants as you can. Learn how to take care of them.
    • If you care about something, frame it.
    • Put back the Christmas lights, bro.

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TSG: You’ve got some great-looking pieces in your assortment — what’s your favorite product from the line?

OP: I’ll always love our “Let’s Go Buffalo” pennant. I’m proud of my city and that item will always be the first chapter of our story. As we reach company milestones (like attending our first trade show or buying our first piece of equipment), I snap a photo with my “Let’s Go Buffalo” pennant. 
TSG: Just for fun (aside from an Oxford Pennant piece), what’s one style essential every guy should own?
OP: A Vespa.
And, well … there you have it, folks. Oxford Pennant does work that’s consistently great, consistently stylish and definitely worth it in terms of your time and dollars. I’d urge you to shop the brand’s line and follow Oxford Pennant on Instagram for plenty of style and décor inspiration.
In the meantime … stay stylish.
-Beau


by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Bespoke Post Vibes Box

Editor’s note: Thank you to Bespoke Post for partnering with me on this post and providing the Bespoke Post Vibes Box for the purposes of this review. Enjoy, and thanks for supporting the brands that support The Style Guide! 

The LSTN Sound Co. Fillmore Headphones — seen here — are but one reason to pick up the Bespoke Post Vibes Box. Hayward Sneakers by CLAE. Leatherback Writer by This Is Ground. Matches by Modern Anthology.

There are small lifestyle upgrades that, once you make them, mean you’ll never turn back. Dramatics aside, that’s certainly the case with the Bespoke Post Vibes Box – it’s a unique upgrade in more ways than one, and if you’re a fan of great audio quality, stellar looks and cool vibes, it’s just the ticket. I had the chance to partner with the brand on a review of the Vibes Box (thanks for sending, guys!), and it’s absolutely a winner. It’s one of several stellar “Boxes” sold by the fine folks at  Bespoke Post  – those Boxes are packages that constitute everything from everyday carry accessories to menswear to culinary goodies. And for the audiophile in your life (or yourself), the  Bespoke Post  Vibes Box simply can’t be beat. I had the chance to check out the Vibes Box recently, and although it contains only two products, both are extremely solid, well-made and stylish lifestyle additions. Namely, the LSTN Sound Co. Fillmore Headphones, featuring handsome, richly grained zebra wood casing and a uniquely rugged-yet-refined aesthetic, are a fine upgrade from typical white earbuds. What’s more, the Tinker, Dinker & Doc Eucalyptus Mint Candle is a pleasing addition to your home office. Whether you’re looking for a way to plug in during a day at the office or an afternoon working from home – or a chill evening unwinding — reach for the Vibes Box. As something of a music nut and a fan of live shows featuring everyone from Local Natives to Young the Giant to Lucius, I’d say I can absolutely appreciate great sound quality — and  Bespoke Post simply kills it. Whether I’m kicking back with the LSTN Sound Co.  Fillmore Headphones via the Vibes Box, or relaxing with my JBL E55BT Headphones, there’s something that helps me recharge after a long day than sitting back with my favorite tunes.  If that’s thpice case for you as well, you’ll love the  Bespoke Post Vibes Box – and I’m not just saying that.

But why go all in on the Bespoke Post Vibes Box if you already own multiple pairs of white earbuds? That’s just the very reason.  It’s worth it to make upgrades to your favorite everyday pieces, be that reaching for a better pair of suede Chelsea boots, grabbing high-quality light wash denim or upgrading your casual shirt. And when you pair those #menswear upgrades with a neat pair of headphones for your daily commute or your day at the office, you’re really putting together the whole package. Of course, that same approach extends to things like upgrading your grooming game and decorating your home in style – and it’s all the better that the Vibes Box looks as nice as it performs. It’s all about taking pleasure in the little things, and a quality listening experience is certainly one of those things. Thanks again to Bespoke Post  for partnering with me on this feature – I know I’ll continue to get great mileage out of both the LSTN Sound Co. Fillmore Headphones and the pleasing aromatherapy candle, day after day. Plug in, listen and enjoy!

Thanks, as always, for reading,

-Beau

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: Abercrombie & Fitch x Tretorn, Oars + Alps and LCD Soundsystem

Is it tough to believe we’re kicking off another edition of The Friday Read here at The Style Guide? If your answer is “Yes,” then we’re in the same boat. We’ve had a lot going on here in Brooklyn, from exploring the borough in style to getting you prepped to dress for your next Sunday brunch (we really do love our brunch here, tell ya what), plus busy times at my day job in fashion PR. It’s all fun and games though, and the fun is set to continue this weekend — I’ll be dressed in spring road trip style to head to Indiana to visit my best friend from college, Mr. Stephen Brook. Check out his work covering Notre Dame football and area sports, if you’re a fan of the Fighting Irish. And if you want to keep up with all the action, follow yours truly on Instagram or check in with The Style Guide on Facebook. Know that in other #menswear matters, I just finished a rather extensive — and I mean, extensive — feature for GearMoose covering the best men’s backpacks; keep your eyes peeled for that one.  For now though, let’s start the weekend nice and early with a few choice men’s style (and music!) reads. Enjoy!

  • Upgrade your grooming game in a big way with Oars + Alps and the brand’s handy, easy-to-use and nearly essential Athlete’s Grooming Kit. I’ve had the chance to test it out over these past few weeks, and I’ve been quite pleased with the results — check out my recent feature on the Oars + Alps Athlete’s Grooming Kit for yourself!
  • We love talking all about spring style essentials here at The Style Guide — and when it comes to your new favorite sneakers for spring and summer, Abercrombie and Fitch x Tretorn might just take the cake. It was excellent to learn about the new collaboration’s updated take on the classic Tretorn Nylite Sneakers for The Manual, and I’d urge you to pick up a pair while they’re around.
  • If you haven’t gotten around to listening to two (two!) new LCD Soundsystem songs, please take this chance to do so. The eclectic NYC indie rockers helped define a new era in the resurgent NYC rock scene thoughout the 2000s, and they’ve returned to the fold with festival appearances in recent years, plus an April residency at new venue Brooklyn Steel to boot! So, it’s nice that new music is here — with more to come, if our luck holds up!

One last thing before you go:

  • In need of a new favorite everyday carry piece? Namely, an essential and slim wallet? The TGT Army All Over Deluxe Wallet could be just the wallet to buy for you — and it’s with that durability and versatility in mind that I wrote about it for GearMoose. Enjoy, and let me know in the comments if you end up picking it up!

We’re all finished up for this week, folks. Time for the weekend! Stay tuned for tomorrow’s Style Pick of the Week, and check back on Monday for more #menswear.

by Beau H.

Reader Giveaway Opportunity: Johnston and Murphy Allister Lace-ups

Editor’s note: Congrats to Jeff, our giveaway winner! Thanks to everyone for reading and participating!

Alright, loyal Style Guide readers — how are we doing today? I’ll tell you this — your day (and week) could be on the verge of getting a lot better? Why’s that? Today’s reader giveaway opportunity is all about the best spring sneakers you need now — one pair, to be more specific. And if you’re a fan of crisp white sneakers for warm weather, consider today your lucky day. As it were, you might recognize the Johnston and Murphy Allister Lace-up from an earlier Style Guide post on how to dress for a spring road trip. They’re a crisp, clean, simple and subtly stylish pair of sneakers from a brand that excels at making all sorts of excellent gear — from rugged leather boots to a waxed field jacket that proved crucial for my upstate New York road trip last fall.  And if you’ve been in need of a spring footwear upgrade, consider that problem solved (if you’re fortunate enough to win, that is). Why exactly are these sneakers such a crucial pair to have in your rotation this season? From the slim profile to the textured upper and clean silhouette, it’s tough to top these guys — I’ve found them to be similarly versatile with other spring gear (including the neat Ministry of Supply Daystarter Band-Collar Shirt and the Going Places Short), and I think you’ll be just as pleased.

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Crucially, I’d suggest you style these with a slim polo and classic tan chinos every chance you get — and know that they’ll work with slim chino shorts and a patterned short-sleeve shirt on weekends just as well as the weekday. And if you feel like keeping it simple — say, a slim heather grey pocket tee and olive chinos — the Johnston and Murphy Allister Lace-up works for that situation, too. So, those tips are all well and good — but how to win, ehh? To win these sneakers, leave a comment below telling me how you’d style them — that’s it! One winner will be chosen at random on midnight on May 13th. Yes indeed, that’s longer than our normal Style Guide giveaways — I’m excited about it, and I hope you are, too. Good luck out there, stay stylish and thanks for reading!

by Beau H.

#OOTD: What to Wear with Your Favorite Classic Sneakers

OK, so you’ve got a new pair of classic sneakers — wondering what to wear ’em with? That’s what today’s #OOTD is all about, and I think you’ll like the results. Much like wearing a classic henley or upgrading your casual shirt, the difference comes in the pieces you accessorize with alongside your sneakers; in this instance, that means a slim Criquet polo and classic Flint and Tinder chinos are the way to go.  Of course, it wouldn’t be possible without those classic, affordably priced and great-looking summer sneakers. So, the brand-new Abercrombie & Fitch x Tretorn collaboration — celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Tretorn Nylite Sneaker and the 125th anniversary of A&F — are the way to go. They’re sleek, they’re simple and they’re easy to buy right now — let’s show ya how to wear ’em, yes? For more daily #menswear inspiration, follow yours truly on Instagram.

Clean sneakers that are easy to wear with other essentials.

The Sneakers: Abercrombie & Fitch x Tretorn Nylite Sneakers, $70 — Designed in-house by Abercrombie & Fitch, this collaboration updates the classic Tretorn Nylite silhouette with a garment-dyed upper, easily wearable all summer long.

The Polo: Criquet Slim-Fit Player’s Shirt, $79  — Featuring the crisp collar and excellent fabric for which Criquet is known, the Slim-Fit Player’s Shirt is a great upgrade to your summer polo game.

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The Pants: Flint and Tinder 365 Pant in Light Khaki, $98 — The good folks of Flint and Tinder & Huckberry excel at making excellent gear for every season and nearly every occasion — the 365 Pant in Light Khaki is a prime example of that approach.

The Socks: Darn Tough No Show Ultra-Light Cushion Socks, $29.98 — When you slip on classic, high-quality sneakers, you need nice no-show socks to protect both your feet and the sneakers themselves. That’s where the Darn Tough no-show socks come into play.

The Belt: La Matera Corbina Belt, $145 — When is it worth it to spend $145 on a belt? When said belt is made by La Matera and adds a welcome shot of color and pattern into an outfit.

The Accessory: Tres Cuervos Flint Leather Bracelet (Available via Upstate Stock), $40 — Want to add some visual interest to your look? Reach for a well-made leather bracelet from the excellent menswear purveyors at Upstate Stock.
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The Watch: Orient USA Ray II Watch, $229.98 — In classic “McQueen” fashion, we’re pairing stellar sneakers with chinos, a polo and  a tough dive watch. In this instance, the Orient USA Ray II Watch is a stellar pick.
The Sunglasses: Raen Optics Wiley Sunglasses, $135 — Leave it to Huckberry to stock and sell an excellent mix of classic accessories — such as the handsome-looking Raen Optics Wiley Sunglasses. Done deal!
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It’s a testament to the fun of changing seasons that it can be enjoyable to get dressed in the spring and summer without piling on a bunch of layers. And there might not be anything better than grabbing a classic pair of sneakers such as the  Abercrombie & Fitch x Tretorn pair seen here. When paired up with versatile essentials like the  Slim-Fit Player’s Shirt from Criquet, you’ve got a winning combination. And slim trousers like the 365 Pant in Light Khaki help get the job done, too. Lest we forget accessories, I’m confident you’ll be pleased with a neat-looking leather bracelet from Upstate Stock, plus the Raen Optics Wiley Sunglasses (a classic silhouette) and the tough Orient USA Ray II Watch. OK, folks — that’s all we’ve got today. Enjoy and stay stylish!

by Beau H.

Online Shopping Picks: The Best Gifts to Buy For Mother’s Day This Year

OK, guys — remain calm. If Mother’s Day crept up on you this year — or you just didn’t know what to buy for the occasion, The Style Guide is here to help today. And luckily for all of you shoppers out there, we’ve got not only a little bit of time before Mother’s Day (it’s this weekend!), but also plenty of options in this year’s Mother’s Day gift guide. Read this post, and I guarantee you your gift-giving conundrum will be solved. Just as with buying a Christmas or birthday gift, it pays to dig a little deeper, past the ordinary — simple and beautifully made gifts with character are the way to go, no matter the mom you’re buying for. And we’re making it even easier this year, with categories ranging from fashion to jewelry. So with all of that being said, I won’t waste another minute of your time. Unless, that is, you feel like shopping for yourself and perhaps crossing an item off your spring style wish list … in that case, procrastinate away! In the meantime, good luck finding that perfect Mother’s Day gift — tell me how it goes over on Twitter or via The Style Guide Facebook page.

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Jewelry: Julia Szendrei Horizon Diamond Slice Necklace — $99

Julia Szendrei

A simply stylish, understated addition to Mom’s jewelry collection.

You know what’s the great thing about shopping frequently via Huckberry? You get well-acquainted with the fact that they’ve got a neat, unique and well-curated selection of women’s gifts — including the Julia Szendrei Horizon Diamond Slice Necklace.  It provides just the right amount of visual interest, and certainly looks more unique than other necklaces Mom might have in her jewelry rotation. Simple, understated and classic.

Accessories, Part 1: Sofia Ramsey Silver Coco Bracelets — $16

Made with hand-painted coconut wood and bright metal beads, these would be a unique, thoughtful gift.

Less a statement piece of jewelry and more a thoughtful accessory, these Sofia Ramsey bracelets blend a spring and summer-friendly color with carefully constructed quality and the type of chic looks that the mom — or moms — on your gifting list might appreciate. Perhaps even better than the eclectic style of these bracelets? Supporting two local businesses in the process (one of ’em being my favorite Brooklyn shop, Upstate Stock!). Plus, you can combine this gift with a little more personal touch — thoughtful flowers, a nice candle or a great book. Speaking of books …

The Combination Gift: Elizabeth W. Aromatherapy Candle — $23.98 AND a Great Book [“Days Without End” by Sebastian Barry, $26 on IndieBound.com]

The unbeatable combo of a great book and a nice candle.

What better way to welcome spring and summer than with an intriguing beach read? If you’ve got a book lover on your list, they very well might appreciate “Days Without End,” a richly crafted, fascinating tale of immigration, the old American West and in short, a momentous time in American history. It’s got a lot of buzz behind it, and it’s certainly among the best books for Mother’s Day (I think). It should be a gripping read — and that’s where the relaxing Lavender Aromatherapy Candle comes into play. See, two great gifts and an easy one-two punch.

Clothing: Taylor Stitch Catherine Buttondown — $118

Taylor Stitch Women's Apparel

A simple, well-made buttondown — match with your gift receipient if you wish!

Lest you thought Taylor Stitch only made your favorite clothing, think again. They make a nice selection of finely textured, well-made and understated pieces for the woman who values effortless style. Whoever that might be on your list, a premium shirt like the Taylor Stitch Catherine Buttondown could be a nice complement to something like a day of pampering or her favorite flowers — see, it’s the little things that count. And seeing as Taylor Stitch has thought of all the details possible with its Catherine Shirt, that’s great news as you shop for Mother’s Day.

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Footwear: Nisolo Sofia Slip-on — $188

Nisolo

A clean, well-made slip-on perfect for the mom who loves — I mean, LOVES — shoes.

Just as with Taylor Stitch, Nisolo does far more than make stylish gear for guys (like the Emilio Chukka Boot). Indeed, the Sofia Slip-on is yet another unique, refined and understated pair of footwear to consider buying for the mom who considers herself a fashionista. And regardless of her footwear tastes, a chic pair of leather slip-ons should work reliably well through the warmer months — so while you buy the Nisolo Leon Weekender for yourself, buy the Sofia Slip-on for her, will ya?

Sutro Shoes Inc.

Accessories, Part 2: Bellroy Carry Out Clutch — $168.98

 

Bellroy

For the mom who appreciates refined, essential accessories — here’s the gift to give.

Who doesn’t appreciate a great addition to their everyday carry  — right? While Mom’s daily carry might look a bit different than yours — I’d wager she doesn’t carry around a small pocket knife, for example — there are still additions to be made. And one of those additions should likely be the Bellroy Carry Out Clutch, a subtly stylish clutch that should be easy to slip into a tote bag or carry on its own. Hey, maybe check out some other Bellroy leather goods for yourself? You know, as a reward for your shopping prowess.

And with that … we’ve reached the end of this year’s Mother’s Day gift guide. Was it helpful? Useful? Or was it a complete waste of time and you’re still scrambling to find a gift? In that case … I do apologize. But if you found a simple, timeless and classic gift to give — like the Bellroy Carry Out Clutch or the Sofia Slip-on — that’s what we’re going for! Indeed, it all comes down to playing toward Mom’s tastes and interests; in that case, something more unexpected, yet well-made — like the Taylor Stitch Catherine Buttondown — could be a prime gift to give. Don’t forget small touches, like an engaging book or a nice candle. So, what do you say? Let me know what you’re buying for Mother’s Day this year in the comments below.

Good luck, stay stylish and thank you for reading — as always!

-Beau

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Oars + Alps Athlete’s Grooming Kit

Oars + Alps

Grooming essentials from Oars + Alps paired with weekend essentials — the Owen and Fred Brass Bottle Opener and Graft Lantz 1951 Traveller Bag among them.

We’ve  talked quite often in our Style Pick of the Week series about men’s style essentials you need to have on-hand in your closet — be it a  lightweight nylon jacket or versatile spring sneakers. But what about your … medicine cabinet?  Effective men’s grooming products tend to be an area most of us guys overlook — it can be an overwhelming field to dive into, what with a plethora of options and brands big and small out there. Yes indeed, keeping it simple can sometimes pay off. In that vein, the Oars + Alps Athlete’s Grooming Kit is simplicity defined for the guy who wants to upgrade his grooming game quickly and easily. Available via the brand’s Web site and the fine folks at Huckberry, it’s a quick and easy-to-use set of just three basics that you need now. While we’ve talked about the best men’s grooming products for winter, it’s just as important to keep your skin in shape during the spring and summer. And the Oars + Alps Athlete’s Grooming Kit is certainly made for the guy on the go, whether you fancy yourself an athlete or not. The kit features the crisply scented, effective Active Armor Deodorant, a 2-in-1 face moisturizer and eye cream — use a lighter amount under the eyes, a thicker amount on the face — and the unique Power Cleansing Face Stick. With that versatility in mind, there’s a great chance the Athlete’s Grooming Kit could be the most essential grooming move you make this season. Having had the chance to test out the line recently courtesy of the brand, I can certainly vouch for that — in fact, it might be among the best men’s grooming products for spring and summer.

Beckett Simonon

The full line-up from Oars + Alps — possibly your new favorite set of grooming essentials.

At first glance, the Power Cleansing Face Stick seems a bit different — you rub the stick on your face (avoiding your eyes), and then rub the solution into your skin with wet hands. Sound odd? Maybe a little — but once you realize that the Cleansing Face Stick leaves your skin feeling refreshed and smooth, it’s easy to use. And the combination of face moisturizer and eye cream eliminates an extra step in the grooming process while hydrating your skin. Again, refreshing and smooth skin isn’t something you should let go in the spring and summer. And the Active Armor Deodorant proves that the Athlete’s Grooming Kit really is an excellent all-around grooming routine, what with its effective performance and crisp scent. While you might have the rest of your spring style essentials covered, the Athlete’s Grooming Kit can absolutely take care of your grooming needs all spring and summer long. The fact that the you can pick up the Athlete’s Grooming Kit for a low price is just an added bonus. And it’s a crucial reminder that even if you think you have everything covered, it’s best to go the extra mile with grooming essentials. If you’ve got more questions on the Athlete’s Grooming Kit, just drop me a line via Twitter.

Stay stylish!

-Beau

Greats

 

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: Star Wars Day, Spring Menswear and The Best Suede Boots for Spring

From yet another #menswear-related work event to plenty of oher action on the men’s style front, it was a busy week — to say the least — here at The Style Guide. How was your week? Happy Cinco de Mayo, by the way — put one on my tab, will ya? In other matters: If spring style is what you seek, we’ve got plenty going on that front for you. Prepare to dress for Sunday brunch with our latest style suggestion, layer up for spring showers with the best gear for the rain and of course, stick around for tomorrow’s Style Pick of the Week.  Outside of menswear, it’s been great to take in all that Brooklyn has to offer in terms of exploring the borough recently. These past few weeks, that’s meant checking out some excellent live shows at the newly opened Brooklyn Steel, now the largest venue in BK! This week in particular, I danced my way through a high-energy show from Irish indie rockers Two Door Cinema Club — that’s a bucket-list band that was worth the wait to see! Of course, I stayed busy on the writing front aside from just having fun at live shows — and you’ll get a look at a few of those articles below. Follow along on Instagram, keep up with my escapades via Twitter and join the conversation over at The Style Guide Facebook page. See you out there!

  • In keeping with the idea of spring style essentials, the fine folks at REEF have teamed up once again with menswear designer Masafumi Watanabe on a surf-inspired collection of lightweight, easygoing pieces that draw on the brand’s California roots. Yes indeed, the REEF x MW line has everything from ringer tees to utility shorts to cool sneakers that would work perfectly for your next spring road trip — and nothing in the collection tops $110. That’s affordable, unique style that can’t be beat.

  • As you might or might not have seen, May 4th was what we call #StarWarsDay — as in, “May the Fourth be with you.” Get it? And fittingly enough, you can mark the occasion — if belatedly — in style with eye-catching, retro-inspired runners from Brooks Heritage as part of the Brooks Heritage Galactic Collection. For more sneaker talk, check out my Style Guide Q+A with Brooks Heritage, too.

  • It might seem counterintuitive to keep wearing boots when it warms up, but I certainly have a tough time shelving my favorite leather boots — and to that end, I recently took my Viberg Service Boots throughout a bit of Brooklyn weekend exploration. What’s more, Esquire.com tells you all about the best suede boots to wear for spring — seriously, folks. Hop to it!

One last thing …

  • If a new swim suit is what you seek, check out my roundup of 25 — yep, 25 — of the best board shorts to buy now over at GearMoose. You really can’t go wrong with any of those picks — trust me.

OK, y’all — that’s it for this week. Enjoy the weekend, and don’t forget your stylish Sunday brunch gear.

-Beau