#OOTD: How to Dress for a Casual Christmas This Year

Folks, it’s coming right up — we’re talking, of course, about Christmas. Perhaps you’ve made it through the holiday party gauntlet and are winding things down to enjoy the day at home … but I doubt it. No sir, this time of year calls for nothing but the best men’s style essentials, even if you’re simply relaxing with a small group of family or friends at home or on the road. And that’s where today’s #OOTD enters the fray. Just like dressing for a stylish winter weekend, even time off the clock calls for gear that’s warm, functional and … heck, just plain fun. So, that’s what we’re going with today. Whether you’re hosting a laidback dinner party, powering through a family game night or heading out for a Christmas round at your favorite brewery, this ensemble nods toward the season without forcing you to put on an ugly sweater. In fact, the stylish Faherty Brand cardigan pictured below is just the opposite.That’s also the case with the classic Faherty Brand flannel shirt that’s part of this look, too. The same can be said for the rest of our picks, right on down to the rugged leather boots and a slim leather wallet to help you get around with ease. Again, it’s all about staying polished and looking your best — Christmas is a special occasion, after all. To check out more holiday style suggestions, read our #OOTD series. Happy holidays!

Start things off with a classic cardigan & flannel shirt from Faherty Brand — it only gets better from there.

  • The Cardigan: Faherty Brand Marled Cotton Cardigan, $288 — Made with a blend of four types of cotton cashmere, this stylish sweater is rugged, easy to wear and made to keep you nice and toasty around the fire this Christmas.
  • The Shirt: Faherty Brand Stretch Seaview Flannel Shirt, $128 — Just what the doctor ordered — a versatile, classic flannel shirt made from organic cotton in a pleasing pattern that nods toward the holiday season.
  • The Classic Denim: Flint and Tinder White Oak Jeans, $98 White Oak denim is gettting exceedingly difficult to come by — these are casual enough for home, sharp enough for work.
  • The Classic Peacoat: Billy Reid Bond Peacoat, $695 — There’s nothing quite like the feeling you get when you put on an heirloom-quality coat — this sharp peacoat from Billy Reid will impress holiday guests and your co-workers, no question.

  • The Boots: Thursday Boots Caramel Wingtip Boots, $220 — Thursday Boots continues to churn out arguably the best men’s boots you can buy. This pair of rugged leather boots is a stylish and functional holiday footwear move.
  • The Socks: Anoymous Ism Indigo Cable Crew Socks, $40 — There’s no way around it — Anonymous Ism makes some of the best socks for men on the market. These are socks you can be proud of when you slip off your shoes.
  • The Watch: Martenero Ace Watch, $411.98 — It wouldn’t be an #OOTD without a stylish leather watch. This Martenero watch is rugged and yet ever-so-slightly dressy.

  • The Slim Leather Wallet: Tanner Goods Minimal Card Wallet, $40 — A refined stylish leather wallet that’s not bulky or hard to slide into your pocket — perfect for travel or for picking up that first (or second) round.
  • The Stylish Scarf: American Trench Cashmere Scarf in Navy, $180 — This cashmere scarf is simply stunning in terms of quality and classic style — ideal for braving the chill as you head to a holiday party.
  • The Grooming Essential: Dr. Roebuck’s Down Under Collagen Boosting Eye Treatment, $38 — The holiday season makes it far too easy to overindulge — but with this effective collagen-boosting eye treatment from Australia, you won’t look like you have.


Now, who’s ready for Christmas? I sure am — if you take the steps outlined in this #OOTD, I think you will be, too. Warm, comfortable and stylish layers will never steer you wrong, even if you’re only spending the evening at home with your significant other — that’s where Faherty Brand comes in. A rugged cotton cardigan is easy to layer over a classic flannel shirt, and that combo is tied together nicely with slim Flint and Tinder jeans featuring White Oak denim. Crisp blue denim is a reliable style option in any season, let alone the holidays — the same can be said for the stylish leather boots we’ve got on tap from Thursday Boots. They’ll provide both traction and style on slippery surfaces, and they’re complemented quite well by the refined nature of the Bond Peacoat from Billy Reid. On-point accessories are also a must, hence a stylish leather wallet and Anonymous Ism socks that’ll impress your guests. Staying warm shouldn’t fall by the wayside, either — an American Trench cashmere scarf provides both protection from the elements and a dash of refined style. And a collagen-boosting eye treatment is but a small way to add a little life to your grooming routine — no matter how much eggnog you have. How are you dressing for the holidays? Feel free to let me know on Twitter

See Now, Buy Now: Gift Your Partner the Bespoke Post Unplugged Box This Season

Best gifts for women

A gift that’s both a great value and seriously packed with goodies.

As wild and scary as it might seem, we’re just days away from Christmas — holiday travel, gift-giving and a flurry of parties await (Need something to wear? Head here for a holiday dressing suggestion). But let’s go back to that middle task for a second: Gift-giving. If you used this site to take care of some shopping early this year, good for you. If not, fret no more — the Bespoke Post Unplug Box (just $55!) is perhaps the perfect gift to get your partner this year. Your wife, your girlfriend, your life partner — heck, your mother-in-law — can all find something refreshing about the excellent, recently launched Unplug Box.

Now, you probably know Bespoke Post for the site’s stylish shirting, rugged leather boots and well-designed home goods … but the site is so much more than that, and it’s better than ever now that you can get one of the best gifts for her with only a few clicks. No gimmicks, no fine print — just a great gift, just in time. What exactly is it about the Bespoke Post Unplug Box that makes it an essential (if last-minute) gift?

SHOP: The Bespoke Post Unplug Box

There surely are plenty of reasons. For one, the Unplug Box (again, only $55!) starts with the Ranger Diffuser (complete with peppermint essential oil). It’s a sneaky way to make a home or bedroom smell like a million bucks (not literally) by diffusing a light, fragrant aroma throughout the space. Cashmere-blend socks from Etiquette Clothiers pamper her feet, and the hits really do keep coming from there. The Unplug Box also features unique Golden Fuel Turmeric-Collagen Blend, a cure-all powder of sorts that can be mixed with hot milk for a golden latte, all the while working wonders for heart health and workout recovery. Another piece of the puzzle in place, thanks to the Unplug Box. The final essential that makes the Bespoke Post Unplug Box so uniquely gift-worthy? A lavender bath bomb made with sage and eucalyptus for the ultimate in relaxation. And again, you really do get all of this for just $55 with the incredible (yes, incredible) Bespoke Post Unplug Box. Never doubt your gift-giving ability again, OK?  And let me know on Twitter if you do pick it up.

Shop the Unplug Box right now via Bespoke Post.

 

Style Pick of the Week: Billy Reid Bond Peacoat

Billy Reid Bond Peacoat

The best peacoat on the market? There’s certainly nothing else like it.

Folks, there’s just no other way to look at it: The Billy Reid Bond Peacoat is an iconic jacket you need in your wardrobe this winter. Oh, and it’s worn by Mr. James Bond himself (as seen above). That’s it. That’s all there is to it. And if this classic peacoat wasn’t so well-made and uniquely stylish, that might be the end of this post. But trust me, there’s so much more to say about the exceptional Bond Peacoat from lauded American menswear designer Billy Reid. It’s great enough that it received prominent placement in the 2012 James Bond film “Skyfall” — of cours. The popularity of this coat (actually named for Bond Street in Manhattan) has only grown since then. Or is “legend” a more fitting word than “popularity”? At any rate, you can currently pick it up via the brand’s Web site, or via Huckberry — all the better, seeing as Huckberry is truly one of my favorite online shops for the stylish guy (that’s you!). That’s really just the start of what makes this coat so great. Now, we’ll be telling you all about how to wear this stylish peacoat in our #OOTD series in the coming days, but for now, let’s get down to business — the Bond Peacoat delivers in matters of style AND functionality, starting with the extremely warm double-woven melton wool construction. That alone makes it worth the *gulp* nearly-$700 price tag.

SHOP: The Billy Reid Bond Peacoat

It’s really not too often — try never — that you find a peacoat that so perfectly embodies style that’s suited for a secret agent and for the everyman, yet that’s just what the Billy Reid Bond Peacoat offers. Take the crisp navy color, as worn by naval servicemen decades ago. Heck, that color and this silhouette alone are enough to add class to any outfit.

Bond Peacoat

A slim, tailored peacoat that shot to prominence thanks to a certain secret agent.

Add in small, seriously premium touches — including a leather-reinforced collar and horn buttons — and you’re looking at much more than your average peacoat. It’s also made in Italy, putting the Billy Reid Bond Peacoat a cut above the rest. Side slash hand warmer pockets and front flap pockets make this coat one that’s not just for show; use them to stow your everyday carry essentials on chilly winter days. It’s crisply cut, making it the ideal complement to tailored wool trousers and rugged leather boots. It’s also a nice way to stay warm in transit to the office or your holiday party — if I were you, I’d wear it over a classic chambray shirt and slim tan chinos, paired up with durable desert boots (read more about all those men’s style essentials elsewhere on the site). Again, you’re going to have to invest in the Billy Reid Bond Peacoat, but I can nearly guarantee it’ll be the last peacoat you buy. OK, that’s it. That’s the end of this post. Get out there and pick it up while you still can!

SHOP: The Billy Reid Bond Peacoat

 

The Friday Read: The Best Albums of 2018, The Best Men’s Boots & Stylish Home Audio

Viberg Boots

Some of the best men’s boots money can buy — seriously.

Ladies and gentlemen, loyal Style Guide readers, … happy Friday. To start things off, let’s talk about the amazing Viberg Service Boots as shown above, perhaps one of the best pairs of men’s leather boots on the market… and maybe, on the planet?? That’s the case, for me. And if you follow me on Instagram, you know I love my pair of Viberg boots.  Now, to business. We’re getting very close to Christmas — have you taken care of your shopping? If not, we’ll have you set with some exceptional menswear gifting picks next week. In the meantime, we’re coming off a busy week on the homefront — among this week’s highlights, I was thrilled to once again see excellent Australian rock band Gang of Youths play in New York City at the famed Irving Plaza! Rock music is alive and well thanks to those guys. Elsewhere, we talked about one of the best men’s shirt jackets to buy right now, and we also helped you in terms of how to dress for your next business meeting. Now, we’re heading into the weekend, and our next weekly men’s style roundup. OK, that’s all for now — enjoy!

  • Do you have a favorite album of 2018? Maybe? Maybe not? If you do, you might find this list by Consequence of Sound interesting, covering the best albums of 2018. From Cat Power to Beach House to Mitski, there are some transcendent selections in the list. Feel like joining the debate? Let me know on Twitter. Need something on which to listen to your favorite album? Try this stylish record player or this excellent portable Bluetooth speaker.
  • Sometimes, all you need to make your outfit go from good to great is a pair of the best men’s leather boots — like the CAT Footwear Thinsulate Boots, as I covered for GearMoose. Now, get out there and get to work.
  • To me, it’s more than worth bringing this crucial post to your attention again. Namely, I recently wrote about how to get a discount on Outerknown menswear — in this piece on men’s style essentials, in fact. The skinny: Just use the code STYLEGUIDE25 to get 25 percent off full-priced gear at Outerknown. That’s it! Happy shopping.
  • In the way of rugged winter gear, it’s also worth considering this men’s style guide I wrote for The Manual covering my favorite fall picks from Filson. Plenty of choices for everyone, right?

Ready for the weekend? Heading to your favorite brewery? Here’s what to wear to the bar tonight. Looking for something else to read? Or wear? Here’s the best men’s sweater to buy now.  That’s going to wrap it up today — thanks for reading!

See Now, Buy Now: The Taylor Stitch California Shirt Deserves A Space In Your Closet for the Holidays

Taylor Stitch

The timeless California Shirt, done up in a winter-friendly brushed cotton. Holidays, here we come.

Ready or not, the holidays are … essentially just days away. How are you dressing? And what are you gifting? As we’ve talked about this week, you might want to use this time to kill two birds with one stone, as they say. In my estimation, that means picking up a stylish Taylor Stitch shirt for yourself … and perhaps for someone else, too.  Yes, we’re back at it again with the lauded California-based menswear brand, makers of plenty of classic men’s shirts — and the one you see at the top of the page in particular. That shirt, my friends, would be the remarkable Taylor Stitch California Shirt in Ash Windowpane ($128), a rugged winter shirt that more than rises to the occasion. Santa himself would be envious of this shirt. It’s that good. Made with 100 percent organic cotton that’s brushed for an incredibly soft feel, it checks all the boxes one might expect from any number in the Taylor Stitch shirting lineup.  I’m always consistently impressed with the fit and feel of these shirts (A note: I wear a size 40 at 6’1″). We’re talking a tailored-but-not-tight fit, plus that signature California collar — it’s substantial without being too wide, yet it’s got a nice construction that frames your face. Sounds like a great shirt to gift or wear this holiday season, right?

SHOP: The Taylor Stitch California Shirt 

Taylor Stitch review

The addition of front button chest pockets is handy and useful.

And the specs make it more than worth spending a little extra on. Again, it’s coming from Taylor Stitch, so you’re getting durable touches like lock-stitched buttons and buttonholes, plus double-needle felled construction and that crucially tailored fit. I told you the Taylor Stitch California Shirt in Ash Windowpane checks plenty of boxes. It’s rugged without going over the top — the windowpane pattern is nicely muted atop the ash fabric. The Taylor Stitch California Shirt in Ash Windowpane is the kind of shirt you’re going to want to throw on with a classic white T-shirt and some slim tan chinos  for a casual evening at home. Yet, you can also dress it up under a navy herringbone blazer. An added benefit? The tail of this shirt is the perfect length be worn untucked (with slim faded denim) or tucked in (perhaps with the Taylor Stitch Telegraph Trousers). Can the Taylor Stitch California Shirt in Ash Windowpane do it all? Gift it to someone — or snag it for yourself — and find out.

SHOP: The Taylor Stitch California Shirt 

#OOTD: This Is The Right Way to Wear Your Peacoat This Winter

When can a piece of outerwear come to define your whole outfit? Easy. When it’s a classic peacoat with a name that speaks for itself — the Billy Reid Bond Peacoat.  It’s a piece of outerwear that’s quickly become a coveted, new classic, and that makes it more than deserving of leading off today’s #OOTD. As to the rest of the ensemble, it’s packed full of the sort of pieces that are going to work at the office or at your holiday party — or perhaps on the road for holiday travel, if you’re feeling particularly dressy. That is to say, Taylor Stitch comes through with handsome trousers, Viberg enters the equation with some of the best men’s boots out there, WP Standard supplies your new favorite messenger bag, and brands like American Trench are here with stylish socks to keep you warm and on your toes this winter. The right coat really can make all the difference — it can elevate your outfit, impress your date or your partner, even charm your in-laws (OK, maybe not). Be sure to keep your skin in shape with men’s grooming essentials, then consider your holiday and office dressing all set. Again, when you start with a jacket that speaks for itself, most of your work is done. Read on to find out more, and head to my Instagram to see how I’m getting dressed this winter.

A beautifully made peacoat that’s going to elevate many a winter ensemble.

  • The Classic Peacoat:  Billy Reid Bond Peacoat, $695 — An absurdly amazing, classic peacoat made to heirloom-quality standards. Famously worn by Daniel Craig as James Bond in “Skyfall”‘.
  • The Shirt: Taylor Stitch Jack Shirt in White Everyday Oxford, $98 — You’re not surprised to see a stylish Taylor Stitch shirt in the mix, are you? The white Oxford is a stone-cold classic of which Bond would approve.
  • The Trousers: Taylor Stitch Telegraph Trousers, $178 — Would you expect anything less than tailored trousers in a winter-friendly fabric from Taylor Stitch?
  • The Boots: Viberg Hiker (Huckberry Exlusive), $426 — These rugged hiking boots from Viberg are absolutely something else. Get them now, wear ’em to the office and on the weekend.
  • The Socks: American Trench Edo Flower Merino & Cashmere Socks, $29.50 — It’s always fun to see how American Trench updates its designs and quality season after season — these socks are dressy yet casual.
  • The Watch: Jack Mason Aviator 3-Hand Watch, $165.98 — A subtly stylish watch from Texas-based Jack Mason Brand that blends function and rugged appeal perfectly.
  • The Grooming Essentials: Duke Cannon Handsome Man Grooming Can, $75 — Packed with one-of-a-kind men’s grooming gear to keep your skin in mint condition this winter.
  • The Everyday Bag: WP Standard Vintage Messenger, $295 — Again, if you follow me on Instagram, you know I love WP Standard and the brand’s stylish, heirloom-quality leather goods — like the WP Standard Vintage Messenger.

If you ask me, I think we’re looking at a heck of an #OOTD above. One that works for the office or a holiday party, one that offers crisp and dressy style as readily as it does functionality (thank those stylish hiking boots for that versatility). Things only get better when you start with the timeless Billy Reid Bond Peacoat and accent it with a stylish Taylor Stitch shirt (one that you can easily dress up even more with a layer like the Taylor Stitch Rangeley Sweater). Again, slim wool trousers should be a go-to with nearly any sharp outfit this winter, and it pays when you step into a pair of rugged winter boots to combat slippery surfaces out there. When it comes to accessories, your subtly stylish Jack Mason watch works in laidback or tailored situations, as do the American Trench socks pictured above. And especially if you find yourself headed to the office (or out on the road), the WP Standard Vintage Messenger is going to provide maximum style and the ability to keep your everyday carry essentials safe. The final ingredient in your recipe for success? Assuredly, it’s got to be men’s grooming gear from Duke Cannon. Now, how’s that for warm, stylish #OOTD that’s going to help you get the job done this winter? Feel free to connect with me on Twitter to let me know your thoughts. Thanks for reading!

The List: Stay Warm This Holiday Season with these Excellent New Men’s Style Picks

Taylor Stitch

An absurdly timeless and rugged shirt, here in time for a chilly December.

Alright, my friends — welcome to the first of several bits and pieces of holiday content here on the blog. We’re talking men’s style essentials from the likes of Taylor Stitch and more today, but with a twist. Since we’re all on a budget — and all on a time crunch — it helps to knock two things out at once. That is to say, the gear picks below can serve as both Christmas style suggestions for you, along with handy gift-giving picks for the rest of the stylish folks in your life. We’ve got stocking stuffers like Darn Tough socks, we’ve got rugged Danner boots, and most importantly, we’ve got a beautiful shirt from Taylor StitchAll able to be gifted to someone, or worn by yourself with ease. Happy shopping!

Taylor Stitch Leeward Shirt in Oxblood — $188

Taylor Stitch

You don’t have another shirt like this in your closet, guaranteed.

We told you this shirt was something else, right? Taylor Stitch truly leaves no stone unturned when it comes to crafting modern staples to exacting standards — the Leeward Shirt, in a December-friendly shade of Oxblood, is outstanding. Wear it with tough leather boots, slim blue denim and a thermal shirt on the weekend. Buy it for someone, or give it to yourself.

Danner Light Boots — $380

Danner

Go big — but don’t go home — with these rugged Danner boots.

The winter calls for boots that can take a beating — as I found out when I visited the brand in Portland last year, Danner makes some of the best men’s boots out there. Snowstorms don’t stand a chance, and if you really feel like splurging on someone — or yourself — you can’t go wrong.

Raleigh Denim Alexander Jeans — $145.98

Raleigh Denim

Comfort stretch denim in a winter-ready color.

There are almost too many good things to count about the Raleigh Denim Alexander Jeans, from the comfort stretch denim to the Big Sur colorway. Perfectly wearable with your new Danner Light boots, yes? And a great way to help your brother upgrade his denim.

Outerknown Transitional Flannel — $88

Outerknown

A new classic, thanks to the great fit and the extra-soft fabric.

Made with ridiculously soft brushed organic cotton flannel, this number from Outerknown is surprisingly lightweight (yet warm) and also easy to layer. A laidback-yet-polished shirt you should wear with your favorite denim over the holidays.

Duke Cannon Handsome Man Grooming Can — $75

A handy kit packed full of grooming essentials for winter and beyond.

The guy who has everything surely doesn’t have anything like this. Featuring must-haves like refreshing face wash and solid cologne, the Handsome Man Grooming Can from Duke Cannon is truly a terrific value in terms of men’s grooming essentials.

Upstate Stock American Mohair Beanie — $32

A warm, cozy beanie from a tried-and-true American retailer.

If you follow me on Instagram, you know I love hitting up the cozy, stylish confines of terrific coffee shop/American-made retailer Upstate Stock. So, it should come as no surprise that I’m also recommending the American Mohair Beanie to keep you warm this season — it’s also a nice stocking stuffer.

Levi’s 502 Regular Taper Jeans — $59.50

Slim but not too slim, with a wash that’s different from inky indigo.

Ahh, Levi’s. That much-loved purveyor of some of the best men’s denim out there. The 502 Regular Taper in particular features a classic cut with just enough of a slim fit. In short, the perfect pair of jeans to wear with a badass winter jacket. They’ll also clean up nice when worn with a white Oxford and some leather moc toe boots for a holiday bar crawl.

Crafthouse Cocktail Mixing Set — $90

Who doesn’t appreciate a good cocktail? This kit has it all.

Particularly in these cold winter months — and as you get ready to head to or host a holiday  or Christmas Eve party — richly crafted cocktails are on the menu. This stylish cocktail kit is a great buy for yourself or the man or woman who likes to imbibe.

SeaVees Indoor/Outdoor Slipper Shoe — $72

The same sole as your favorite sneakers, with the cozy build of a house shoe.

Good news for all of us who plan to head home this holiday season — SeaVees has taken the same approach that makes its classic sneakers so great, and applied that to a pair of cozy slipper shoes. Pack these in your bag for Christmas at home, without a doubt.

Wrangler Born Ready One-Pocket Plaid Shirt — $64

A classic shirt with a bit of edge — unexpected from Wrangler, and highly wearable this winter.

A hint of retro style merged with modern cool — that’s the focus of the “Born Ready” campaign from Wrangler, and it results in this sharp plaid shirt that would look great with perfectly faded jeans and classic leather boots at a casual holiday get-together.

Timex Marlin Automatic in Brown Leather — $249

A clean and classic that looks great with a suit — or with the Outerknown flannel shirt shown above.

The good folks at Timex keep on delivering the hits — this new edition of the Timex Marlin in particular features brown leather, but the same crisp dial design. Great for your holiday party, and a great gift for the soon-to-be grad in your life (hey, get it out of the way early).

Taylor Stitch Après Hoodie in Navy Hemp Fleece — $118

The zip hooded sweatshirt you didn’t know you need. Practical, cozy & stylish.

When you gather around the fire at Christmas, should you wear a stylish zip hoodie? Oh, yes — the Taylor Stitch Après Hoodie in Navy Hemp Fleece proves that. Pair it with slim tan chinos and rugged leather lace-up boots atop your favorite henley — all you need is a fresh cup of coffee.

Darn Tough Brogue Crew Light Socks — $20

Darn Tough socks

American-made socks that pack a punch in terms of comfort and style.

You best get acquainted with Darn Tough and the brand’s uniquely American-made socks. The quality is second-to-none, and understated, stylish patterns make these socks a winner this holiday season — especially when you slip off your shoes at your host’s house. Plus, they’re a great stocking stuffer. (Of note: You can also get Darn Tough socks via Huckberry).

Deus Ex Machina Address Workwear Jacket — $98

Gift it to the lover of rugged style on your list, or keep it for yourself.

I appreciate the old-school vibe of a tough workwear jacket as much as anyone — and I guarantee there’s someone on your list who feels the same way. If not? Buy this rugged washed cotton canvas jacket from the custom motorcycle purveyors at Deus Ex Machina, then wear it on cold winter mornings.

 

Now, we’re wrapped up on this slightly longer edition of The List. Did you find a gift for anyone on your list? What piece or pieces would you snag for yourself? For me, it’s got to be a pair of rugged Danner boots — no questions asked. Be sure to check back on the site often in the weeks ahead as we offer up even more gift-giving suggestions — for both yourself and others. Thanks for reading!

Style Pick of the Week: Faherty Brand Bondi Jacket

 

Faherty Brand

Two seriously cool jackets for the price of one — all from a classic, dependable brand.

Take a good look at the Bondi Jacket from Faherty Brand — then envision yourself wearing it this winter. It’s not all that hard to do, right? After all, Faherty Brand consistently delivers the sort of casual, easygoing-yet-functional staples that every guy needs in his wardrobe, and they do it for nearly every season. Yes, even winter. That’s where the Bondi Jacket comes into play. It’s two jackets in one, with the type of design detailing that only the West Coast purveyors at Faherty Brand can provide — take one look at the cool reversible print, for starters.

It’s pretty plain to see that the Bondi Jacket is unlike any other winter style essential you’ve got in your wardrobe, and while I can’t advise that you wear this thing into the polar vortex, it’s certainly worthy keeping under consideration as another layer (to say the least). Brushed cotton blanket fabric makes up the printed interior, while a durable diamond-quilted chambray holds down the fort on the other side — again, two jackets that’ll layer with ease over everything from a classic white T-shirt to a rugged henley. The beauty of the Bondi Jacket? You can then layer it underneath a heavier winter parka for maximum protection on the streets — without sacrifing style once you head indoors. It’s that kind of versatility that Faherty Brand provides in spades — again, they’re not just a warm-weather brand.

SHOP: The Faherty Brand Bondi Jacket 

Faherty Brand

A closer look at the reverse side of this durable shirt jacket.

And then, there’s the unique pattern on the Faherty Brand Bondi Jacket (as seen above). The Redwood Bluff design is both subtly stylish and just a bit bold, made to layer over a classic chambray shirt while offering a nice bit of contrast — think ’70s surfer cool without going too far over the top. This is a shirt jacket you should feel comfortable wearing with rugged chore pants and tough leather boots, too. Feel like going a little more low-key? The reverse-side chambray is a little more understated, to the point where you could team up the Faherty Brand Bondi Jacket with slim black jeans, a classic Oxford shirt and a warm beanie cap for winter’s nightcap at a (heated) outdoor rooftop. To be sure, that’s a specific style scenario … but hey, ’tis the season. If at first you’re wary of injecting that much color and pattern into your wardrobe, know that the tailored fit and easy-to-layer potential of the Faherty Brand Bondi Jacket make it a solid winner, especially for the price. That’s all you need this winter.

How would you layer the Faherty Brand Bondi Jacket? Are you on board with wearing a shirt jacket for winter?

The Friday Read: The National, Upstate New York and Upslope Brewing

It’s the end of a long week — treat yourself to some whiskey, and to a new whiskey glass in the process

OK, my friends. If you’re in the same boat as me, perhaps you might enjoy a nice, neat pour of a premium spirit in one of the best whiskey glasses on the market to end your Friday. How about it? The good news is, you can pick up many more of those unique Whiskey Peaks glasses as shown above at Huckberry. Now, to the rest of today’s Friday Read. We’ve kept plenty busy here to close out November — I spent the Thanksgiving holiday with my family in warm, sunny and relaxing Florida, enjoying a Jai Alai IPA and watching lots of football (you might have picked up on that via my Instagram). At any rate, it was a much-needed, very refreshing break from writing a ton about, yes, winter style essentials aplenty. Like the outfit you need to wear to your favorite brewery this weekend. And the best flannel shirt to buy now. Again, the work never stops. However!

It’ll come to a brief respite this afternoon, as I head to the lovely town of Hudson, New York (you might remeber it from a previous upstate winter getaway) to support a great cause and see some amazing live music. Yes indeed, today is the start of the Rally in the Valley, a full weekend of education and activism supporting Planned Parenthood in upstate New York. Along with community workshops and panel discussions, it’s kicked off on Friday night with a concert by none other than indie rock luminaries The National — my heroes and my forever band! Guitarist Aaron Dessner lives not too far from Hudson, and I’ve been very lucky to see them play two album release shows last summer (at the incredible Basilica Hudson). This time around, I’m more excited than ever for an intimate show at Hudson Hall. It’s going to be an amazing night for an amazing cause — and the rest of the weekend shouldn’t disappoint! I plan to hit up MOTO Coffee for a cup or two (or more) of delicious coffee, and I’m also thrilled to stay at Rivertown Lodge, complete with idyllic accomodations aplenty (say that five times fasts). For now though, we’ve got more menswear and craft beer to discuss. Read on!

  • We start this portion of today’s Friday Read by talking about a gift for her — your partner, your spouse or your girlfriend. And this gift comes from one of my favorite online retailers, Bespoke Post. They make all kinds of menswear essentials (and I know we all love a great Bespoke Post Box), but the recently lauched Soothe Box (it’s just $55!) is one-of-a-kind, and an ideal way to put some care & thought into the holiday season. From a lovely candle to a clay face mask to body scrub, these are the essentials she deserves — get your shopping done early.
  • On the craft beer front, I was fortunate enough last week to try the excellent Spruce Tip IPA from Upslope Brewing. This Colorado-based, Certified B Corporation has put a little something extra into this beer — besides the hand-picked spruce tips, that is. They work with organizations like Leave No Trace to produce beer that’s environmentally friendly — and delicious, to boot. Heck, that’s not all: The Spruce Tip IPA is particularly great out of a can.
  •  Staying sharp while on the road has arguably never been more important than right now — that’s why I wrote about the best men’s winter travel essentials over at The Manual! It features some gear picks from brands you know and love, including the Proof Rover Pants, stylish Darn Tough socks and even a rugged Jack Mason watch. Can’t get any better than that.
  • Also in the way of holiday-centric upgrades, I wrote about all of the best men’s grooming gifts for GearMoose. You know, the gifts to give, well, any guy on your list who could use better skin care. So, your dad, your brother, your father-in-law … you catch my drift.

That’s going to close out today’s Friday Read. Did you find what you were looking for? Maybe stay on the site if not — we’ll tell you all about the best menswear to buy on sale this weekend. We’ll also get you outfitted with the perfect oufit to wear for a night in, because even laidback nights deserve proper style. Again, hopefully, you find what you need. Stay tuned for tomorrow’s Style Pick of the Week, and have a great weekend!

See Now, Buy Now: Bundle Up with this Classic Cardigan from Faherty Brand for Winter

This rugged cardigan is cozy, classic and ready to layer.

Faherty Brand seemingly can do no wrong when it comes to crafting beloved styles made from premium fabric — all with easygoing wearability & versatility in mind. In short, Faherty Brand makes the gear you need for your next holiday party or casual winter weekend. That sounds like high praise, and it is, but this is one brand that talks the talk and walks the walk. What’s the key here? To me, it really comes down to pieces like the   part of the brand’s Holiday Collection and among a host of stylish new arrivals worth your time. Now if you read the ol’ blog fairly regularly, you might recognize warm-weather staples like the Faherty Brand Bliss Henley, but again, Faherty Brand is a brand that goes beyond its West Coast roots to craft some seriously rugged, hard-wearing gear — again, including the cozy Marled Cotton Cardigan shown above.

SHOP: The Holiday Collection from Faherty Brand

Neat texture and a neutral color allow holiday-centric shirts to pop with ease.

You need a cardigan like this one in your winter layering arsenal for more than just a couple reasons. A rugged shawl cardigan, like a classic henley, adds visual interest and warmth to even the most simple of outfits, and it also gives you a bit of masculine style — there’s a reason style luminaries like Steve McQueen and Daniel Craig champion the classic shawl cardigan. It’s also the perfect season to add an extra layer of cozy comfort — this cardigan from Faherty Brand is made from marled cotton, making it easy to layer over a chambray shirt or a classic flannel shirt. Touches like horn buttons upgrade the  Marled Cotton Cardigan from good to great, as well. It’s the type of timeless style you’re going to want to wear to your next holiday gathering or simply a  casual evening at home (ideally, with a glass of whiskey in hand and some cozy slippers on — like thIs #OOTD).  But the one thing to remember? Just because a brand is known for warm weather-friendly staples doesn’t mean they can’t make a heck of a rugged shawl cardigan for winter — believe it.

SHOP: The Holiday Collection from Faherty Brand