Month / December 2017

by Beau H.

Men’s Style Holiday Gift Guide 2017: What to Buy for Him This Christmas

Just as we came to you on Monday with this year’s edition of the Women’s Style Holiday Gift Guide — which was so much more than just style, mark my words — we’re back at it with this year’s edition of the Men’s Style Holiday Gift Guide! Think of these gifts as a great starting point for the guy who’s got everything, be it your brother, your father, your father-in-law, your partner … you get the picture. So, we’re talking investment-worthy outerwear from Taylor Stitch, handy everyday carry essentials (great as a stocking stuffer) and other cool gifts that anyone would be happy to receive (like the Shinola Runwell Watch — wink, wink). While we’re on the topic, our ongoing series of the best men’s gear (called The List), could also be quite helpful. Alright, are you ready to get shopping? I know I am.

Holiday 2017

For the Guy Who Has, Well … Everything: Taylor Stitch The Long Haul Jacket in Sand Waterproof Suede — $898
Taylor Stitch

An absurdly beautiful jacket that’s unlike anything Taylor Stitch has done yet.

Who exactly are you buying this exceptional Taylor Stitch Long Haul Jacket for? Well, I’m not sure — it could be your well-dressed brother, cousin, best friend … you name it, they’re going to absolutely love the Long Haul Jacket, this time done up in an all-new fabrication. Exceptional quality from an exceptional brand — pre-order it for them from Taylor Stitch, then draw up a cool postcard or fake “gift certificate” revealing the ultimate prize. Ehh?
For the Craft Beer Lover: GrowlerWerks 64oz. Limited-Edition uKeg — $185

A thoughtful gift for the beer lover in your life — and you can enjoy it, too.

What to get for the guy who’s tasted and tried a heck of a lot of beer? Why, something in which to store his favorite brew. The clean, crisply designed GrowlerWerks Limited-Edition Keg comes in a neat Black Chrome, perfect for taking up some counter space in the den or the garage. This GrowlerWerks keg is also perfect for tapping into as you
watch game after game after game this bowl season.
 For the Outdoor Enthusiast: The James Brand Serrated Chapter Knife — $275

A uniquely well-made knife that should prove mighty useful in plenty of situations.

Every guy can use a well-made knife, right? An extremely well-made knife, at that. Yes indeed, the James Brand Serrated Chapter Knife works well if you know a guy who’s always working in the yard or always out camping and exploring — you never know what jams you’ll get into out there, so maybe pick up a James Brand knife for yourself.
For the Style Lover: Taylor Stitch The Jack Shirt in Chocolate Micro Cord — $148 

A better buttondown shirt than the one your father-in-law normally wears, right?

Consider picking up this handsome, stylish corduroy shirt from Taylor Stitch for your father or father-in-law (or, y’know, anyone who appreciates great style). The Jack Shirt in Chocolate Micro Cord features the familiar look of a much-loved buttondown shirt, yet it’s got a dash more unique style and a better fit — heck, the Jack Shirt might be the type of shirt the lucky receipient puts on then and there.

For the Coffee Lover: W+P Design Brew and Pour-Over Press — $99.99

Two excellent gifts that can be put to use on Christmas morning — can’t you smell the hot coffee now?

This category also made an appearance in this year’s Women’s Holiday Gift Guide, for good reason. Know someone who really, really loves coffee? *Raises hand* Well, OK … that’s not a stretch for most of us. But this gift, the W+P Design Brew and Pour-Over Press Set, takes it to the next level. You get an excellent pour over coffee set, plus a heck of a neat book (“Brew” details everything you need to brew great coffee at home). I’d say anyone will appreciate that gift, won’t you?
For the Tailoring Aficionado: Bespoke Post Frost Box — $45  (When Signing Up for Bespoke Post) 

Two gifts that are essential as the cold weather closes in.

If you know a gentleman who loves to suit up — even in the winter — what might he be missing? Why, stylish gloves from the Bespoke Post Frost Box, of course. Complete with lambskin touchscreen leather gloves and a useful (and much-needed) hand salve, the Bespoke Post Frost Box is but one way to introduce your receipient to the wonders of this great subscription service.
For the Outdoorsman: Flint and Tinder Moleskin Shirt Jacket — $188

A great gift for the guy who favors rugged style and loves the outdoors.

While the other gifts on this list — including the James Brand Serrated Chapter Knife and the excellent Taylor Stitch Long Haul Jacket — could certainly go toward the outdoorsman in your life, there’s something rugged and tough about the Flint and Tinder Moleskin Shirt Jacket.  I have no doubt that the Moleskin Shirt Jacket would be a great gift for the guy who can never seem to spend enough time outdoors … and I’d recommend you pick one up for yourself, too.

For the Watch Lover: Shinola Runwell Watch — $600

Is it “time” to open Christmas presents yet? Get it?

Told you we’d have something for everyone on this list, right? The investment-quality Shinola Runwell has long been a favorite of mine for its blend of classic, clean style and durable construction — the lucky guy who gets this thing is going to enjoy the Shinola Runwell for years and years (and years) to come.  Add this Shinola watch to your own wish list, too.
For the Frequent Traveler: Hook & Albert Leather Garment Weekender — $595 

The perfect garment bag and weekender rolled into one supremely stylish package.

Perhaps a handy companion to the Bespoke Post Frost Box for the guy who appreciates tailored style (and travels a heck of a lot), the exceptional Hook & Albert Leather Garment Weekender can hold up to two suits, in addition to carrying two pairs of shoes. Did I mention the Leather Garment Weekender is made from top-grain pebbled leather? A beautiful gift for the gentleman who loves the finer things.

For Your Father or Father-in-Law: “Ali: A Life” by Jonathan Eig — $17.34

A enthralling read that you just might want to take a look at afterward.

The story of Muhammad Ali is truly remarkable, a lesson in perserverance, talent, grace and style — to say the least. This well-reviewed book by Mr. Eig captures it all in full — an engaging read no matter who’s on the receiving end of this great gift on Christmas morning.
For the Runner: Decibullz Custom Fit Earphones — $29.99

A set of headphones that go above and beyond when it comes to excellent quality and fit.

Rather than gift the runner or hardcore trainer in your life another set of running shorts, give them an underrated gift that could come in handy — these seriously cool Decibullz Custom Fit Earphones. No more dealing with earbuds that fall out or fall all over the place — these mold quickly to the shape of your ears, ensuring a great fit and, as the brand says, no pain.

For the Footwear Fan: Huckberry x Original Chippewa 6-Inch Service Boot — $280

Huckberry x Original Chippewa

Know anyone who’s got a pair of leather boots like this? I bet not. As good as it gets.

If you — like me — positively can’t get enough of stylish leather boots like the Huckberry x Original Chippewa 6-Inch Service Boots, then perhaps you know someone else on your shopping list who feels the same way? These rugged leather boots are a Huckberry exclusive, making them all the more coveted (plus, stylish and durable).
My dear friends, that’s going to wrap up this year’s Men’s Style Holiday Gift Guide. Did you find what you were looking for? More importantly, did you find a gift for everyone? What’s your favorite on this list, perhaps your own must-have? The Huckberry x Original Chippewa 6-Inch Service Boots are as good as it gets for yours truly. At any rate, I hope you take care of your shopping in good time this season. As to the rest of our holiday #menswear needs here on the blog, there’s plenty more where that came from — stay tuned!
Thanks for reading,
-Beau
by Beau H.

#OOTD: Wear This Sharp Outfit To Your Holiday Party

Alright, my friends — ready to commence the search for what to wear to a holiday party? Maybe you’ve already kicked off the season in earnest, but when it comes to holiday cocktails, office parties and more formal affairs … it’s a marathon, not a sprint. Right? Right. That means we’re focused on easily wearable, classic items that can go from the office to the bar with ease. You might already own some of these pieces, or they might be making their way onto your holiday wish list, but rest assured… you’re going to look great. We’re starting with a classic herringbone blazer, then adding pieces like a tailored white dress shirt and stylish wool trousers — building blocks of many a winter ensemble. And when the time comes to take on the snow and slush? Sharp, weather-ready Hudson Shoes Chelsea boots are your best bet. I won’t spoil the fun, though. You can find the full #OOTD below! Let me know what you think in the comments, and enjoy the season!

We’ve got the goods when it comes to sharp, tailored dressing for the season.

The Blazer: Ledbury Lochaven Herringbone Jacket, $444.98 — If you need a stylish herringbone blazer for winter, the splurge-worthy Lochaven Herringbone Jacket from Ledbury is the one to buy.

 Not Pictured: Abercrombie & Fitch Italian Wool Topcoat, $150 (When On-Sale) — The topcoat is ultimately optional in this look, particularly if there’s no snow on the ground yet (that’s where the American Trench scarf comes into play). But if you want a great-looking, affordable topcoat? Buy one from Abercrombie & Fitch.

The Dress Shirt: Taylor Stitch The Hyde in White Royal Oxford, $98 — As we’ve said before, Taylor Stitch really can do no wrong — that goes for a tailored men’s dress shirt like the Hyde in White Royal Oxford.

The Tie: Neck & Tie Co. Chambray Nutmeg Tie, $46 — Nod toward the season without going overboard with this finely crafted Neck & Tie Co. piece — the nutmeg color is smooth and winter-friendly (just like your favorite bourbon).
The Trousers: Taylor Stitch The Telegraph Trouser in Navy Donegal, $178 — We turn yet again to richly crafted menswear from Taylor Stitch — the Navy Donegal Telegraph Trousers are simply excellent.

The Boots: Hudson Shoes Wynford Chelsea Boots, $230 — When winter weather hits, you want to get around with functionality and fashion in mind — stylish Chelsea boots from Hudson Shoes are a huge help.

The Watch: About Vintage 1815 Chronograph, $349 — There are everyday watches, and then there’s the stylish dress watch you need for your holiday party. The About Vintage 815 Chronograph is that watch.

The Socks: American Trench Sawtooth Argyle Socks, $29.50  — We’ve talked on the blog in the past about how choosing the right pair of socks makes a big difference — the Sawtooth Argyle Socks from  American Trench toe the line (pun intended) between dressy and comfortable style.
 The Scarf: American Trench Navy Cashmere Scarf, $180 — We’re closing things out on a high note with classic accessories from American Trench — the brand’s Navy Cashmere Scarf is simply top-of-the-line.

While I can’t speak for the quality of the party or parties you might be attending, I can vouch for the fact that if you throw on something like the Lochaven Herringbone Jacket, you’re going to be off to a truly great start. Supplementing a classic herringbone blazer with other essentials — like what just might be the perfect white dress shirt — is always a smart move, while a handsome Neck & Tie Co. tie nods toward the season just enough. The Navy Donegal Telegraph Trousers are a job VERY well-done by our pals at Taylor Stitch, and they should sit just right when worn with the Hudson Shoes Wynford Chelsea Boots. On the accessories front, keeping your socks and scarf stylish and comfortable are critical, so the Navy Cashmere Scarf and Sawtooth Argyle Socks from American Trench  are absolutely ready for your holiday party. I’ll close here by saying that you should absolutely splurge on the About Vintage 815 Chronograph for this occasion (and plenty of other dressy situations). Bring along a favorite spirit for your host (or boss), and enjoy the evening in style. Cheers!

Thanks for reading,

-Beau

 

by Beau H.

Women’s Style Holiday Gift Guide 2017: What to Buy for Her This Christmas

Quick, get your credit card and your shopping list ready — it’s time to for this year’s Women’s Style Holiday Gift Guide, my friends! We’re going past style into lifestyle goods, too — fear not. If you find shopping for any of the women in your life to be a bit of a challenge, we’ve got you covered. That goes for whether you’re buying for your mom, your significant other, your sister, your sister-in-law … anyone on your list. I definitely hope these picks are as useful (and fun!) as our ongoing series covering the best men’s gear — after all, it’s useful (and recommended) to get out of your comfort zone every once in a while when it comes to shopping. Keep in mind that the best gifts truly do come from the heart — seriously! Again, whoever happens to be on your list … this gift guide is the way to go. Want to see different brands included or want to weigh in on what you’re buying this year? Hit me up on Twitter. Happy holidays!

For Your Wife or Girlfriend: Christina Nicole Ayaria Earrings — $72

Simply refined earrings that are perfect for everyday wear or more special occasions.

Perhaps these stylish, unique Christina Nicole Ayaria Earrings are but one part of a larger gift to your significant other, which is fantastic! To this writer’s (somewhat) trained eye, they’re an elegant, lovely accessory that can be worn through the holiday season and the rest of the year with just about anything.

For the Broadway/Music Fan: Tickets to Your Wife, Girlfriend or Mom’s Favorite Musical — TBD

Dropping more than four figures on “Hamilton” might not be advisable … but go for it if you want to! Image courtesy of Hamilton.

OK, am I suggesting you open up a second mortage to buy those tickets to “Hamilton,” the famed rap musical about founding father Alexander Hamilton? Ehh, not quite. But splurging on tickets to an amazing musical (or a music act) that your mom, girlfriend or sister loves can be a very cool, very enjoyable gift — heck, it could even come with a trip  built right in! How about it?
For the Book Lover: “Sing, Unburied Sing” by Jesmyn Ward — From $11.27

An award-winning novel that anyone can appreciate.

Know someone who loves to read and devours the latest and greatest off shelves? If they haven’t read this number yet, I’d suggest it. Even if someone like your mother-in-law isn’t a devout reader, it’s tough to find someone who doesn’t appreciate a well-crafted novel — this acclaimed tome took home this year’s National Book Award for Fiction.

For the Style Lover: Red Wing Heritage Clara Boot — $359.99

Stylishly made, well-crafted leather boots from the brand that also makes your own favorite boots.

Did you know that Red Wing Heritage made women’s boots? Extremely stylish women ‘s boots at that? It’s a relatively recent addition to the brand’s lineup, and the Red Wing Heritage Clara Boot features every bit as much craftsmanship and outstanding quality as your own pair of rugged leather boots. These offer a bit of chic refinement, so the receipient can rock ’em on date night or on a winter stroll around town. The catch? You need a shoe size first … get to it!
For Your Wife or Girlfriend (Continued): Ethics Supply Co. Firefall Bath Salts — $32 AND Cultiver Marais Robe — $110

Two gifts for … well, not for the price of one. But a great combination nonetheless.

Two great gifts bundled into one idea here.  That is to say,  you’ll have to wrap it yourself. The Ethics Supply Co. Firefall Bath Salts are a refreshing and relaxing way to unwind, while you can’t beat a high-quality bathrobe like the Cultiver Marais Robe. See, isn’t this easy? I kid, I kid.
For the Jewelry Lover: J. Alexander Silver and Turquoise Jewelry Box — $72

A cool, classic way to store her jewelry from J. Alexander.

For the woman who’s got quite a lot — I mean, A LOT — of jewelry, this elegant J. Alexander Silver and Turquoise Jewelry Box is an excellent gift, perhaps in tandem with the Christina Nicole Ayaria Earrings we discussed earlier. It’s striking and well-designed, yet not too over-the-top, exactly what’s needed in a nice Christmas gift.
 For the Style Lover (Part 2): The Horse The Classic Time Teller Watch — $164.98

A sleek, simple watch that goes with anything — perfect for the woman who loves style.

Whether you’re buying for your mom, your sister or your mother-in-law, a crisp and refined timepiece is an excellent gift (one that keeps on giving, you might say). The Classic Time Teller Watch is elegant, refined and easily wearable during the holidays and well after — a terrific value for the money.
For the Coffee Lover: Fellow Stagg x Pour-Over Set — $69 AND Canyon Coffee Medium Roast — $17

Two great gifts that work very, VERY well alongside one another. Who doesn’t love a great cup of coffee?

Here’s another gift that works quite well as a set — the well-made Fellow Stagg x Pour-Over Set, paired up with an exceptionally tasty Canyon Coffee Medium Roast, is a great one to open on Christmas Day and enjoy right then and there. At least, that’s what I’d do. You can also give each gift individually — it’s all up to you. Who’s got my next cup of coffee?
For Your Sister or Sister-in-Law: Nisolo Clutch Wallet — $128

A sustainably crafted clutch that’ll come in very handy all year long.

If you’re a bit stumped on what to get your sister or sister-in-law — fear not, we’ve all been there — then a simple clutch (a sustainably made one, at that), is a safe bet on the gift-giving front. Nisolo makes its Clutch Wallet from quality materials built to last, so it’ll be durable and stylish long after the holidays.

For the Sneakerhead: Gola Classics Women’s Bullet Metallic Trainer  — $95

A cool pair of sneakers for the woman who appreciates cool style.

Know a woman who’s seriously into sneakers — or who simply loves a sporty, chic pair of footwear? The Gola Classics Bullet Metallic Trainer is an excellent pair to buy, filled with British sporting heritage and sleek, modern style. A unique gift under the tree that someone might not have thought of — that’s what we’re going for here.
Holiday 2017

So, was this list a good start? I sure do hope so. Taking care of gift giving can be a bit of a difficult proposition, especially when buying for multiple people (and keeping track of your own holiday wish list, of course). Let me know on The Style Guide Facebook page what you’re buying this year, and stay tuned for more holiday gift guides for everyone from your father to your brother!

Thanks for reading,

-Beau

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: United By Blue Holt Work Shirt

A work shirt perfect for layering, for doing yard work or for wearing around the house — nice work from United By Blue.

Ladies and gentleman, ’tis the season … to upgrade your rugged shirting game. That’s what the United By Blue Holt Work Shirt is going to do for you (or for the lucky fella who receives this stylish winter shirt under the tree in the weeks ahead). Yes indeed, it’s never too early to think about gifting for the outdoorsman in your life, and it’s certainly never too early to think about buying yourself a little extra Christmas present this season — what do ya say? For my money, the Holt Work Shirt is another standout addition to the United By Blue lineup, and a standout addition to our Style Pick of the Week series here on the blog.  United By Blue is definitely a brand we appreciate here at The Style Guide for committing to sustainability and style in equal parts (Editor’s note: Check out my United By Blue Q+A for more). That they manage to commit to the environment while running some cool retail shops — as I found in a Labor Day trip to Asbury Park — and consistently come through with cool product like the Holt Work Shirt is a treat in and of itself, too. Oh, and as to the specs and style points of the aforementioned Holt Work Shirt? It’s up there with the best men’s shirts to buy right now, I’d say.

A snapdown collar and Corozo buttons blend the functional and the refined in this work shirt.

For starters, the Holt Work Shirt features an organic cotton-recycled polyester blend, two eco-conscious fabrics that result in a tough, versatile flannel shirt. The  United By Blue Holt Work Shirt even features a touch of stretch — all the better to layer up over your favorite henley this winter season. The Holt Work Shirt has the look of an overshirt and the durability to go along with it. Plus, you’ll find space for your everyday carry thanks to two front button chest pockets on the Holt Work Shirt, complete with a useful side zip compartment at the left chest pocket. In addition to that helpful functionality, you get your pick between two versatile colorways — Rust and Olive ought to work with plenty of other winter style essentials in your rotation, from an oatmeal thermal crewneck and slim black denim to tan leather boots, dark blue denim and a classic chambray shirt (yes, I’m recommending you layer the United By Blue Holt Work Shirt  … atop another shirt). That’s the beauty of a dependable, well-made and weather-friendly work shirt — you an use it to do actual, rough-and-tumble work, or you can wear it as a statement piece underneath a classic shawl collar cardigan to grab a pint at your favorite brewpub. Where you wear the United By Blue Holt Work Shirt is up to you — choices abound. If I were you, I’d keep it simple and make that first choice — adding the Holt Work Shirt to your cart.

That’s all I’ve got today, folks — enjoy the weekend!

-Beau

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: The Nisolo Holiday Gift Bundle, Barking Irons and LusterWhite Premium Toothpaste

Alright, we made it to Friday — raise a glass! Or crack open a cold one and kick back. It’s the welcome end to a long week here in NYC, one that caps off a busy five days of work following my latest Style Guide trip to celebrate a Florida Thanksgiving with my family! It was a long weekend complete with an amazing Thanksgiving meal, plus many helpings of leftovers in the days following. I even got some shopping done for Black Friday — you can check out my Instagram in the coming days for more in that regard. And why should you follow along on Instagram, exactly? Well, I’m heading back down to Florida this weekend to visit my sister for the 97x Next Big Thing music festival in lovely Tampa Bay! I’m excited to hit the road tonight to take in a great, great weekend of live music featuring some seriously fun, seriously powerful bands (many of whom I’ve had the chance to see in and around NYC as of late!).

That includes the festival’s two main headliners, The Lumineers and Paramore, along with other highly enjoyable groups like Canadian pop-rockers Arkells, New Jersey’s own Bleachers, the always-fun MisterWives  out of NYC, groovy indie rockers Portugal. The Man and upbeat dance rockers Saint Motel! That’s just the tip of the iceberg, though. It promises to be a sunny, fun weekend in Florida — I couldn’t be more excited to once again break out some warm weather style essentials, just as in past road trips to Florida, and it’s certainly a treat to embark on another Style Guide road trip centered around stellar music. Now, I know we can’t all be so fortunate as to head to warm weather every weekend … if you’ll be battling chilly temperatures, I’d recommend a stylish pair of boots like the Nisolo Andres Boots,our most recent Style Pick of the Week here on the blog.  And if holiday shopping is in the cards for you — as it should be — then you’d do well to check out this site’s picks as to the best gifts for men. But more on that very, very shortly. For now, you can join me on Instagram to follow along with all the fun this weekend, and you should stick around tomorrow to check out our next Style Pick of the Week. Alright, now it’s off to catch my flight!

  • OK, folks — have we got a heck of a deal for you. Launching today (that’s December 1st), the good folks at Nisolo — of Andres Boot fame — are offering a men’s holiday gift bundle and an equally stellar women’s holiday gift bundle that you’re not going to want to miss. Now through December 24th, customers (that’d be you!) can spend $35 to  get $250 worth of shopping credit at “bundle” brands — in short, we’re talking five brands and five gift cards good for $50 at each brand. What’s in store at each brand? Well, we’ve got rugged outdoor gear from United By Blue, beautiful bags from ONA, high-quality tailoring from Ledbury and stylish men’s boots from Nisolo, among other highlight in the men’s gift bundle. Seriously, what’s not to love about that? Again, you can get the men’s holiday gift bundle and the women’s holiday gift bundle (for yourself or someone else!) through December 24th.
  • Wearing a casual T-shirt this holiday season doesn’t have to be sloppy. Over my Thanksgiving trip to Florida, I found myself reaching for a Barking Irons tee time and again, featuring soft fabric and a retro fit. If that sounds good to you, you might want to pick up the “War Is Over” Tee from Barking Irons, or one of the brand’s other sharp graphic tees. They’d make a great gift for the guy who appreciates standout casual style, too.
  • Let’s talk a bit of grooming today on the blog, and specifically, how to keep your teeth in prime shape during the holiday season. Between red wine, chocolate, craft beer and more, keeping your teeth white can be a tall order. So, I’ve been testing out LusterPremiumWhite and the brand’s PowerWhite Deep Stain Eraser Flouride Toothpaste (courtesy of the brand) these past few weeks, and I truly can’t recommend the brand enough! It even helped me soar through my last dentist appointment with flying colors (well, sort of). Grab a tube now.

And with that, I say goodbye until … tomorrow!

Enjoy the weekend!

-Beau

Holiday 2017