Month / May 2020

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Levi’s Light Wash Trucker Jacket

An unstoppable trucker jacket that’s going to come to the rescue when you need it.

There comes a time on many a summer evening (weeknight, weekend, you name it) when the sun goes down and the temperature, well, plummets. Don’t get caught out in an unexpectedly chilly night — instead, wear one of the best men’s jean jackets on the planet, the iconic Levi’s Trucker Jacket. To be more specific: The Levi’s Light Wash Trucker Jacket, a seriously rugged and cool summer style essential we’ve grown to love here over the years at The Style Guide. If you follow me on Instagram, you know I can’t get enough of rugged denim jackets like this one — they’re a lightweight layering piece with room for your everyday carry essentials, and they’ve got a cool-as-heck lineage, just like Levi’s itself. It’s only fitting that Levi’s continues to produce one of the best jean jackets, period, well over a hundred years after the company patented blue jeans for miners out West — it’s ingenuity like this that’s made Levi’s a favorite brand of mine. This brand is worn by rock stars and creatives the world over  (and I love wearing my Levi’s jeans to a concert or my favorite bar), and with the Levi’s Light Wash Trucker Jacket, you can bring a bit of that casually cool style to your summer wardrobe starting today. Heck, you can even wear a classic jean jacket like the Levi’s Light Wash Trucker Jacket from day to night — if you please.

SHOP: The Levi’s Light Wash Trucker Jacket

A new staple piece in your summer wardrobe, guaranteed.

But I know what you’re thinking: Won’t I overheat during the day? Well, not necessarily. Sure, if the subway platform is over 100 degrees, then maybe (trust me, I’ve been there). But the rest of the time? Consider the Levi’s Light Wash Trucker Jacket one of the best jackets for summer you can buy right now. The denim jacket (this one is made from 100 percent cotton), crucially, isn’t as hot or stuffy as a leather jacket — it’s the perfect way to add some visual interest and just a bit of weather-minded protection to your classic summer T-shirt, for starters. And while a deep indigo blue jean jacket (also a favorite of mine) might be too much to break in during the summer months, a piece like the Levi’s Light Wash Trucker Jacket is absolutely good to go right out of the box. This iconic Levi’s jacket just gets better and better, does it not? Pair it with a breezy Oxford shirt and slim stone chinos for WFH style (just add leather loafers), or throw it on atop a slim tee with chino shorts and classic canvas sneakers for truly kicked back weekend style. And yes, you can use this as a blazer replacement atop a crisp white Oxford shirt if necessary. The point is this: When you  find one of the best jean jackets, you snap it up immediately. Now, you’re ready for chilly summer nights and classic summer days.

SHOP: The Levi’s Light Wash Trucker Jacket

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: The Best Summer Shoes, Rogue Ales & Beards for a Good Cause

Dependable high-top sneakers to wear all summer long.

Let’s start this Friday Read off right with a look at some of the best men’s sneakers, shall we? The Nisolo Cortez High-Top Sneakers are positively some of the best summer shoes you need in your rotation, and seeing as we’ve moved past Memorial Day, I’d say it’s time you geared up. You surely recognize Nisolo from the blog as makers of the excellent Nisolo Travel Derby and even a stylish weekender bag. But, seeing as we’re all staying close to home for the time being, those rugged high-top sneakers should work nicely in the interim. Now, onward and into the Friday Read. Times continue to be strange and difficult for many of us, so thank you for taking time out of your day and weekend to stop by the blog. Pressing style matters await to divert your attention, but right off the bat, I’m going to call out tge that inimitable menswear designer Todd Snyder is running a sale of up to 30 percent off on the covetable Todd Snyder x Champion line, among other items — perhaps the perfect summer sweatshirt is within your grasp via one of the best men’s style sales out there.

As for me, when I’m not dreaming about a new Todd Snyder sweatshirt for breezy summer nights, I plan on spinning some new vinyl (as usual!) — this week’s prime pick is the lovely “Vide Noir” by folk rockers Lord Huron. I’m also going to be supporting some local businesses. I recently picked up the Road House Coffee Blend from Brooklyn’s own Variety Coffee Roasters, and I’ve also got a shipment incoming of delicious, fresh craft beer from another Brooklyn staple, Threes Brewing. Of course, there’s also another Style Pick of the Week post incoming tomorrow so some writing will be on the docket, too. Be sure to join us for that, and in the meantime, here are the rest of the weekend’s top picks.

  • A brand that specializes in some of the best men’s denim might not be the first place you’d go to get a face mask during these trying times, but in fact, they could be a perfect option (think of all that useful, tough fabric). I’m talking, of course, about Fitted NYC in this case. The Williamsburg-based denim brand (as I covered for The Manual back in 2018!) is now making selvedge denim face masks — talk about style and safety rolled into one durable offering.
  • In the way of other men’s style brands making face masks, get a load of what cool-as-can-be style purveyors Faherty Brand are doing. They’ve got a selection of surprisingly stylish face masks (non-medical grade) for you to wear when out and about — that’s in addition to their excellent collection of cozy, comfortable Work From Home style essentials they’re also making.
  • Ever felt like growing out a beard and really going for it? Perhaps you’re doing something similar now, in fact? What if I told you that you could grow out your beard & donate toe a good cause in the process? For my friends in Pennsylvania in particular, the Abington Interfaith Food Cupboard has been working with the previously beardless Drew — our man Drew’s been growing out his beard, and a $10 donation to Drew’s Beard Challenge gives you the chance to vote on what happens next with his beard … and he’s got to keep it that way for five days. How could you not want to pitch in on that?? Donate here via Supportful.

  • Let’s pivot to some of the best craft beer for your weekend imbibing, shall we? West Coast-based Rogue Ales & Spirits  is rising to the occasion to meet the demands of thirsty consumers who can’t visit its physical locations. They’re now shipping beer to Oregon, Washington D.C., Nebraska, Ohio and Nevada, while also offering free beer & spirits delivery in the Portland, Oregon area. And you can also pick up your beer from one of its Oregon locations —  or  use this tracker to find it in all 50 states! Pretty great news all around, right? Cheers.

OK, let’s close things out right with one last feature before your weekend starts (or continues) in earnest. The right summer shirt is crucial to have on hand. While your rugged flannel shirting has long been stowed away, consider keeping a stylish denim shirt close at hand. In particular, check out the Buck Mason Vintage Denim Shirt via this blog post. If you do pick it up, feel free to let me know on Twitter. Alright, that’s all I’ve got. Stay safe and stay strong, folks!

-Beau

by Beau H.

See Now, Buy Now: The Western Rise Evolution Pants are Summer’s Perfect Pants

The best adventure pants — and the best pants to wear at home.

Editor’s note: This post is sponsored by Western Rise and contains affiliate links, from which a commission might be earned. All opinions are my own. Thanks for supporting brands that support The Style Guide! 

Have you long been in search of, let’s say, the best men’s pants for spring 2023 and summer? It’s a tricky bar to clear, especially if you want pants that really can do it all. We’re talking pants you can wear to work from home, to lounge around the house and to get out & about on socially distanced adventures (as seen above). It’s impossible to find a versatile pair of pants that check all those boxes, right? Wrong.

The Western Rise Evolution Pants, as the headline so sagely calls out, are going to become your new go-to pants this season, and they’re here not a moment too soon. Now, if you read the blog (or follow along on Facebook or Twitter), then you know that Western Rise makes standout gear for the guy on the go, from essential travel pants to a versatile performance flannel shirt. Crucially the Western Rise Evolution Pants fall within that same wheelhouse — durable, high-quality, ever-versatile and seriously stylish. Again, they’re the perfect pants for summer. I’ve been testing out my own pair (as you might have seen on my Instagram), and I can’t recommend them enough.

SHOP: The Western Rise Evolution Pants 

One of six colors in which you’ll find these exceptional pants.

Let’s start with the quality construction of these dependable everyday pants. Nylon Supplex® is truly some next-level stuff, using air-texturized nylon fibers spun into a lightweight, durable, stretchy pair of pants that look like your favorite chinos and perform just as well as your favorite hiking pants. The Western Rise Evolution Pants really are something else — the lightweight construction alone makes them well-suited for days at the home office and on your patio, but it gets better. They’re both anti-wrinkle and stain-resistant, and you can pick them up in no less than six highly stylish colors (including Olive, Blue Grey and Khaki).

To make matters even better: They come equipped with a hidden back zipper security pocket  to keep your everyday carry safe. It’s not an exaggeration to say that the Western Rise Evolution Pants go far above and beyond what you’d expect a typical pair of pants to provide. Plus, they’re sleek and reasonably priced — when you consider all that you’re getting out of ’em.

These are the kind of pants you can rock with a T-shirt and suede chukka boots as readily as you can pair with, say, a Western Rise merino shirt or performance-minded polo. And when you really want to get out there and hit the trail? Go with a rugged henley and tough hiking shoes — the Western Rise Evolution Pants are assuredly up to the task — you might even want to consider getting more than one pair (no, you should definitely consider that).

Details make the difference here from Western Rise.

It’s also tough to find a pair of USA-made pants these days, and yet, Western Rise has managed to pull off that tricky feat with these durable everyday pants. Small touches like YKK zippers amp things up a notch, as do sturdy rivets — these aren’t stiff like canvas work pants, though (as to be expected from such a versatile and innovative fabric). See, I told you it gets better, right? To sum things up: These are your new favorite pants. Buy them now, then wear accordingly the rest of the season (and heck, the rest of the year).

SHOP: The Western Rise Evolution Pants 

by Beau H.

The List: Upgrade Your Summer Wardrobe with the Best Men’s Gear on the Market

The best jacket for a cold summer night? You tell me.

Does it feel odd that the time is well and truly here to shop for the best summer style essentials (if you haven’t already, that is)? All of this is to say, it’s taken a heck of a long time in our current world to get to what properly feels like summer, and maybe, you’re feeling behind in the game. Not to worry, because today’s edition of The List is covering the best men’s gear for cool evenings and hot days at home and out on the trail (socially distanced, of course). We’ll cover your new favorite summer jacket (hint: It’s at the top of the page), plus the best new sneakers & plenty more.I hope you’re ready, because we’re looking at 20 of the best men’s gear picks to buy now. OK, let’s dive on in.

Flint and Tinder Unlined Waxed Trucker Jacket — $168

An updated take on one of the best trucker jackets around.

Just when you thought the Flint and Tinder Trucker Jacket couldn’t get any better, well, Huckberry went and made this rugged, unlined trucker jacket to wear atop, say, your favorite T-shirt this summer. It’s easily one of summer’s best jackets. Speaking of that tee …

Grayers Micro Stripe Pocket Tee — $38

A breezy, cool pocket tee to wear all summer.

Yes indeed, here’s your new favorite T-shirt. Well, that is to say … it could be. Available in summer-friendly colors like the bright blue seen here, this Grayers T-shirt is practically made for casual weekends aplenty, especially when worn with slim tan chinos and stylish sneakers.

Timex MS1 Maritime Sport Watch — $158

Rugged and dependable as can be from Timex.

When we’re talking casual gear like a stylish T-shirt and an unlined trucker jacket, well, one of the best men’s summer watches has to be part of the conversation too, yes? The Timex MS1 Maritime Sport Watch is easily a standout casual, affordable watch to snag right now.

Duke Cannon Moderately Essential Hygiene Set — $45 

The right men’s grooming essentials for summer — easily.

Believe it or not, for just $45, you’re getting some of the best men’s grooming essentials for any season — not just the start of summer. The Duke Cannon Moderately Essential Hygiene Set is cleverly named, yes, but also features the grooming essentials to buy for summer, including an excellent face wash.

Billykirk No. 486 Schoolboy Satchel — $550

Durable, rugged — and your new favorite bag.

It might seem odd to talk about one of the best messenger bags for men given that a lot of us are sticking at home rather than jaunting to the office, but when that rugged leather messenger bag is made by Billykirk, well, it’s worth talking about. Invest in this handsome leather satchel bag, then get ready to break it in trip after trip.

La Paz Alegra Short-Sleeve Buttondown — $147.98

A classic, cool short-sleeve shirt for summer.

Now that the thermostat’s climbing, you might realize you’re missing something — one of the best short-sleeve shirts for summer, maybe. Head to Huckberry and pick up this classic short-sleeve shirt in a fun pattern ASAP.

HELM Boots Declan Tan Boots — $295

Classic suede chukka boots from Austin’s HELM Boots.

Let’s shift gears for just a second. Perhaps you’re going with a classic short-sleeve shirt  up top, and some faded slim jeans below … and then, you’re putting on these rugged suede chukka  boots from HELM Boots. They’re a lightweight pair of summer boots to wear anywhere your errands take you (beer pick-ups at your favorite brewery, particularly). Yes indeed, HELM Boots makes ’em right.

Taylor Stitch California Shirt in Natural Everyday Chambray — $82.60

Your new favorite summer shirt? Very possibly.

For unstoppable everyday summer style — pun intended — you absolutely should pick up one of the best chambray shirts for men from Taylor Stitch. Reliably made with quality fabric, this Taylor Stitch shirt is one of my favorites (and it’ll be one of yours, too). Plus, you can get 30 percent off at Taylor Stitch right  now, so hop on it. 

Gingko HiFi Speaker — $99

So, you’re kicked back at home relaxing and you want to put on your favorite tunes. How are you listening to, say, Big Thief? You’re doing it with the Gingko HiFi Speaker, one of the best Bluetooth speakers for your home.

Buck Mason Standard Light Wash Jeans — $145

Classic light wash jeans for summer from Buck Mason.

If you’ve never tried out a pair of Buck Mason jeans, now is as good a time as any. As previously seen on the  blog, these slim light wash jeans are casual, easygoing, comfortable … in short, possibly the best jeans for summer. Pair them with rugged suede chukka  boots from HELM Boots.

Raen Optics Bastien Sunglasses — $160

Sharp, vintage-inspired men’s sunglasses are yours for the taking.

There are a couple crucial ways to top off your summer style ensemble — starting with some stylish men’s sunglasses (after you’ve refreshed your mug with the best men’s grooming essentials, that is). For retro-inspired style, the Raen Optics Bastien Sunglasses (as seen previously on the blog) are some of the coolest sunglasses for summer.

GREATS Royale Sneakers — $179

Classically cool, affordable sneakers for summer from GREATS.

Listen, we’ve talked quite a bit on the blog in recent weeks about stylish sneakers for summer, but there’s no dbout that Brooklyn’s GREATS Brand is going to help you a heck of a lot in that regard. The GREATS Royale Sneakers (especially with that cool gum sole) are some of the best sneakers for summer, especially when you pair ’em up with a Taylor Stitch chambray shirt and slim chinos. Speaking of slim chinos …

Fisher + Baker Dalton Pants — $228

Work-from-home style made easy with Fisher + Baker.

Everyone’s work-from-home style has evolved over these past few months, and so should yours — the Fisher + Baker Dalton Pants are a great place to start. These slim navy chinos are made from a temperature-regulating merino wool blend, making ’em some of the best pants for summer (at home, in your backyard … anywhere).

Proof Nomad Shorts — $64

Casual-yet-highly stylish summer shorts.

For all those times when you don’t feel like wearing slim navy chinos, reach for the outstanding Proof Nomad Shorts. They’re truly some of summer’s best shorts for casual style (Hint: It’s the two-way stretch Japanese twill that does it).

Western Rise Limitless Merino Polo Shirt — $99

The best new polo shirt on the market? Possibly?

Your average polo shirt, this is not. Western Rise has come out with a stylish performance polo made from moisture-wicking, anti-microbial fabric — it’s a slim polo shirt you can wear all summer, especially with your faovrite pair of shorts. You’ve never had a polo shirt like this, I’d wager.

Mott and Bow Driggs Classic Crew T-Shirt — $32

The classic T-shirt to wear all summer.

Yes, that’s right. As you very well might know, the brand that makes your favorite jeans also makes one of the best men’s tees to go along with ’em. Simple, effective and stylish, this is a classic summer crewneck.  Heck, buy one in every color.

Nisolo Alejandro Slip-ons — $158

Slip-on shoes that are as good as they get this season.

Want to find the ideal pair of slip-on shoes to wear at home? You’re looking at ’em. The Nisolo Alejandro Slip-ons, made from rich leather, are the best slip-on shoes to wear at home, and out on your back deck, and anywhere else (when the time comes) this summer.

Bellroy Tech Folio — $339

The best way to protect and store your tech essentials, period.

Might as well keep it rolling with at-home essentials, yes? The Bellroy Tech Folio is one of the best ways to organize your home office, made to protect your laptop or tablet and featuring handy storage pockets for your tech essentials.

Ryland Life Voyage Et Cie Highball Candle Cannes Vetiver  — $56

Just what you need to add some ambiance to your home.

We could all use a little more luxury in our life right now, I think — that’s what luxury retailer Ryland Life is focused on bringing to your everyday pursuits and at-home lifestyle, and this Voyage Et Cie candle is as premium an extension of that lifestyle as it gets. Light it, then kick back with a record spinning on your stylish turntable.

Kate’s Real Foods Snack Bites — $19.99

Perfect fuel for summer adventures.

All of this summer-inclined activity calls for the right fuel, does it not? I’ve had the chance to test out the delicious, nutritious and organic Kate’s Real Foods Snack Bites (I love the Peanut Butter and Hemp variety!), and I can’t recommend them enough. Easy to eat on the go, enjoyable to eat at home … a perfect summer snack.

OK, my friends. Phew! We covered a ton — and I mean, a TON — of ground today when it comes to the best summer gear. Be it a new necessity like  slip-on shoes to wear at home, a must-have essential like one of the best Bluetooth speakers for your home or something more classic for summer (your new favorite T-shirt comes to mind), I hope you found something to add to your shopping list. Lest we forget, the basics still matter here, so slim navy chinos and the best men’s grooming essentials are helpful, too. Like what you see? Be sure to let me know on Twitter. Thanks for reading! 

by Beau H.

#OOTD: How to Wear Chukka Boots For Summer — The Best Way

I know what you might be thinking right off the bat: Chukka boots? Isn’t it the middle of summer the time to put those away already, even if they happen to be some of the best lightweight boots out there? Well … maybe. But not quite. No, in fact, you can still wear your favorite chukka boots this summer — the trick comes with choosing a lightweight pair of chukka boots, then styling ’em up with laidback summer style essentials that won’t slow you down. Even if you’re just hunkered down at home, as we all seem to be these days, the best chukka boots for men can still be put to good use. How so? And when? Well, first of all: You’ll find these Astorflex chukka boots have been paired with, among other crucial summer style staples, a Buck Mason henley for breezy, easygoing summer style. So, there’s that. And as to when you can wear the best suede chukka boots … I’d say anytime you darn well please, from flipping burgers on the grill to kicking back with a beer in hand (don’t worry, we’ve got your new growler included in today’s ensemble, as it were). Various other pieces are here to put in a solid effort, too — take a rugged indigo work shirt as your ideal summer evening layer, for starters. This #OOTD also features some style hacks you can put to good use when the time does come to get back out in public. Note the layering of said henley under a denim workshirt, and the subsequent denim-on-denim combination. I’ve probably said too much already, though — you should check out this stylish summer ensemble yourself below.

Classic suede chukka boots to wear all summer — yes, that’s right.

  • The Chukka Boots: Astorflex Greenflex Chukka Boots, $104.98 — As mentioned above, you can certainly still wear some of the best men’s chukka boots into June and beyond — naturally, Huckberry delivers some of the best chukka boots on the market, made with lightweight construction and smooth suede.
  • The Henley: Buck Mason Pima Short-Sleeve Curved Hem Henley, $48 — Yes, we’re back once again with a Buck Mason henley, and it’s the right base layer for this breezy outfit. In fact, it’s one of the best short-sleeve henleys for summer, available at a quality price.
  • The Workshirt: Flint and Tinder Indigo Work Shirt, $82.98 — Here’s the thing with day-to-night style this summer — it can go from sweltering to breezy once the sun goes down, and even if your only plans involve kicking back on the porch, beer in hand, a rugged indigo work shirt from Flint and Tinder still gets the job done.
  • The Denim: Buck Mason Maverick Slim Jeans, $145 — When you get sick of sweatshorts this spring and summer, step out in some stylish slim jeans in a pleasing medium wash. Buck Mason makes some of the best men’s jeans to complement outfits like this, and that’s applause-worthy in my book. Oh, and don’t worry — these jeans still work with your rugged indigo work shirt, given the different colors. Roll ’em up and show off some ankle.
  •  The Stylish Dive Watch: About Vintage 1926 At’sea, $375 — Now, look — if you don’t want to go too overboard, you might not need this vintage-style dive watch. But if you want to shake up your at-home look while hanging out, listening to a record, manning the grill … throw on this classic dive watch.
  • The Audio Essential: U-Turn Audio Orbit Special w/ Preamp, $549 — Maybe you’re less of a vinyl records guy than a Bluetooth speaker type of guy — but if putting on one of your favorite records, beer or whiskey in hand, is a pastime, then this U-Turn Audio Orbit Special is one of the coolest record players to add to your home or apartment.
  • The Summer Must-Have: GrowlerWerks uKeg Copper Growler (128oz.), $239 — What goes better with a summer afternoon or evening than a cold beer (if that’s your thing)? There’s not much. It’s good news, then, that this rugged growler from GrowlerWerks looks great in your kitchen, in your den or on your back porch. Plus, it’s got plenty of capacity for your new favorite summer beer.
  • The Grooming Essential: Jack Henry Cleanse+, $16 — When you want to refresh your skin after a long summer day, or prepare for getting outside, you want something light, clarifying and of course, cleansing. Enter this face cleanser from Jack Henry.

Terminal Tee

Now, if you’d rather wear your favorite summer sneakers instead of rugged chukka boots in this case, I say go for it — the world is your oyster, as it were. But if you want to shake up your at-home style routine, you can go with no cooler combination than laidback suede chukka boots that build up into stylish summer basics. And that list of basics? It’s pretty great, in my mind. We work from the ground up with the best men’s jeans, a casually easygoing pair in a nice wash that won’t weigh you down as much as a heavy pair of raw selvedge denim might. From there, you’re going to be throwing on one of the best short-sleeve henleys for summer, a base layer that you can easily rock on its own, should you choose. In case you need some protection from the sun, or if you happen to need a light layer when the sun goes down, that’s where your rugged indigo work shirt enters the fold. The Jack Henry Cleanse+ shown above will keep your face fresh and in good shape, while a vintage-style dive watch will undoubtedly keep you on time as you prep dinner or run from room to room to get on that conference call (yes, this #OOTD can be worn to work from home, too!). For when the day’s work is done, I’m going to recommend you kick back with some fresh, flavorful beer from your GrowlerWerks uKeg Growler. Do this all while listening to, say, “Antisocialites” by Alvvays — a favorite vinyl of mine — on your U-Turn Audio Orbit Special. While it’s not the same as heading to a brewery or hanging out with friends, this #OOTD harnesses some of the best gear for summer in the meantime. If you’d like to share what you’re wearing at home this season, head to Twitter and give me a follow. Thanks for reading!

by Beau H.

See Now, Buy Now: These Stylish Grayers Shorts are the Best Summer Shorts Right Now

Essential summer shorts from Grayers.

Seeing as it’s Memorial Day and all, the time has never been more fitting to think about seriously upgrading your summer style essentials — and that’s where the best men’s shorts for summer come into play. Everyone’s summer plans are likely looking quite a bit different than previously thought — gone are music festivals, outdoor concerts & crowded beaches (for the foreseeable future). replaced instead by quieter times at home. Rest assured, style is as essential as ever, so the Grayers Bruce Stretch Dobby Shorts are going to put in plenty of work this season. The best men’s chino shorts should be easy to throw on with a breezy slub tee or your favorite polo, and then forgotten about — in a way. That is to say, the fit, versatility and fabric should be so spot-on, you don’t have to worry about them. And that’s what these classic men’s shorts are offering today (and the rest of summer). The best shorts for men, in this case, start with a cotton-spandex blend that focuses on stretch and comfort (kind of like stylish chinos from Grayers), and the square front pockets make these more like rugged field shorts than baggy khaki cargo shorts from days past — these are both great things.

SHOP: The Grayers Bruce Stretch Dobby Shorts

Rugged details make these a highly versatile, highly stylish pair of summer shorts.

The Burro color (as coined by Grayers) is stylish and versatile, making these slim chino shorts well-suited to wear with, say, a navy slub polo or a crisp white tee. Add in your favorite canvas sneakers for an afternoon or evening of enjoyment at the grill (crisp lager in hand), and you’ve got summer style that’s nicely adapted to the current times we live. As with most Grayers gear, these classic shorts are nicely priced  ($88 via Grayers), and are part of an extensive lineup of stylish men’s shorts from the brand overall. Remember: Although you’re grilling at home rather than heading to your favorite rooftop restaurant, you can still look great while hanging out — and the Grayers Bruce Stretch Dobby Shorts are going to help you meet that challenge quite nicely.

SHOP: The Grayers Bruce Stretch Dobby Shorts

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Billykirk No. 478 Khaki Carryall

The classic weekender bag to (hopefully) take on your next trip.

Maybe it’s the fact that it’s Memorial Day weekend (traditionally a very travel-heavy weekend!) or maybe it’s the fact that we’re all getting a bit stir-crazy these past few weeks, but it just feels like the right time to shop for one of the best weekender bags, does it not? And the rugged weekender bag in question is going to more than get the job done when it comes time to hit the road again: We’re talking today about the Billykirk No. 478 Khaki Carryall, a classic weekender bag that just so happens to fit right in with the rest of Billykirk’s American-made leather goods. You’ve heard about the brand on the blog before, to be sure, and it’s high time you got acquainted with them if you’ve never picked up some made-in-America gear from the New Jersey-based brand. The Billykirk No. 479 Khaki Carryall is a recent addition to the Billykirk line, one that goes above and beyond what you’d expect from your traditional weekender bag. To wit: If you’ve been packing for weekend trips or overnight jaunts using a logo duffel or an athletic-minded gym bag, those days are over. This stylish weekender bag is well-made, durably designed and made to be packed up, tossed in the back of your ride, and then not fretted over. The rugged 20oz. waxed canvas and full-grain vegetable-tanned leather can certainly take a beating, no matter how overstuffed your car is.

SHOP: The Billykirk No. 479 Khaki Carryall

The rugged carrying potential and functionality you need from Billykirk.

Now, this all might seem like pure fantasy at this point given, well, *gestures broadly at everything* … but believe me, it’ll still pay off to invest in advance in one of the best weekender bags for men right now. If anything, it’ll be a great reminder to plan out the first trip properly (and then pack accordingly). And assuredly, one of the best weekender bags is going to provide plenty of long-term travel potential and style — just look at how well-made this travel bag happens to be, for starters. It’s finished off with nickel-plated brass hardware, and critically, it’s also water-resistant. Yes indeed, this rugged weekender bag isn’t like anything you’ve owned previously (is it?). Where will this bag take you? Upstate? To the coast? On an inland adventure? The possibilities really are endless when you pick up an investment-worthy travel bag, that much I know to be true. To let me know what you think of this stylish travel bag, hit me up on Twitter.

SHOP: The Billykirk No. 479 Khaki Carryall

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: Memorial Day Weekend, The Best Summer Shirt & Craft Beer Delivery

A classic adventure shirt you can wear all through summer, starting today.

Thanks for joining us again for another Friday Read.  We’re on the cusp of Memorial Day weekend, so welcome. Although it looks mighty different than years past, I hope you find ways to celebrate with family and friends (socially distanced, of course). What’s on your plate (besides shopping for summer style essentials)? Maybe you’ll be spending some time outside with family or heading out on a hike? Or perhaps, you’re just focused on making the perfect summer meal and enjoying a classic summer beer? At any rate, I’d bet that the excellent Western Rise Limitless Merino Shirt (as seen above — it’s one of the best shirts for summer I’ve tried) is going to get where you need to go.

When we return from Memorial Day weekend, it also happens to be one of the best shirts to wear to work from home, what with its 4-way stretch and use of merino wool and polyester. A performance Oxford shirt you can wear all day? Sign me up. In fact, there’s a very good chance I’ll be wearing some of my own Western Rise gear to get out and about as much as possible in Brooklyn — the quiet confines of Marine Park near my humble abode sound pretty ideal right now (I’ll be wearing a camo mask from Ball and Buck, as it were). I’ll also be fueling my day with plenty of coffee, and I’m naturally going to make some time to listen to a vinyl record or three (if you happen to be a vinyl guy yourself, you might want to check out one of the best record players). In the meantime, start your weekend right here, right now — today’s Friday Read is packed.

Just one pick from one of the best Memorial Day sales around.

A neat play on the San Fran flag by Anchor Brewing and artist Jeremy Fish.

  • Speaking of San Francisco, lauded & pioneering craft brewer Anchor Brewing is doing plenty to help the local community during these trying times (in addition to brewing some incredibly delicious beer). The brewery partnered with artist Jeremy Fish to refresh the exteriors of boarded up-bars and restaurants across the city with special artwork — putting a modern twist on the SF flag — as part of the Stay Strong SF campaign. Even more critically, every poster has a QR code that directs you to donate to the United States Bartenders Guild.  Even cooler?  The posters are available to download for free at www.AnchorBeerToGo.com — while there, you can also purchase a T-shirt (which will donate 100 percent of the proceeds to the USBG). And if you live in the area, you can get your favorite craft beer via curbside pick-up on Friday, Saturday & Sunday. Sounds great to me, right? (Speaking of craft beer, shop for your favorite growler while we’re on the subject).

  • Want to shake up your weekend while giving back to a good cause? Check out Schick Xtreme’s Shave The Day mobile video gaming, where you can play as XtremeMan to shave people’s heads (a fitting quarantine haircut!) to earn Bald Bucks — those Bald Bucks are being turned into real dollars that Schick will donate to St. Baldrick’s Foundation (up to $25,000) to assist with fighting childhood cancer. Hey, you’ve got the extra time this weekend, so you might as well turn your energy toward a great cause.

Alright, that’s going to do it for today’s edition of The Friday Read. But one last thing for you — given that it’s a long weekend, with plenty of potential for lots of laidback relaxation, I’m going to point you toward my guide on how to wear a T-shirt this summer. Seriously: A T-shirt is so much more than just a T-shirt when you rock it the right way. OK, folks. That’s all I’ve got today. Have a great and safe long weekend, be sure to check out tomorrow’s Style Pick of the Week, and thanks — as always — for reading.

-Beau

by Beau H.

See Now, Buy Now: Get Ready for the Weekend with This Todd Snyder Utility Shirt

A rock-solid shirt from an award-winning menswear designer.

Now, Memorial Day weekend is nearly here, so let’s dive right in with what could become one of your new favorite summer shirts, shall we? This is our second See Now, Buy Now feature in two days, and I assure you: It’s a good one. Todd Snyder, the lauded NYC menswear designer and a longtime friend of the blog, is once again here to upgrade your seasonal wardobe with one of summer’s best shirts, so you’d do well to hop on this style before the season kicks off in earnest. Even if that shirt isn’t up your alley, you should certainly consider shopping the Todd Snyder sale that’s running this weekend for Memorial Day (up to 30 percent off!). Back to business, though.
OLIVERS

If your neck of the woods is anything like mine, you know that times are quite different out there — to say the least. But for relaxing summer days at home or on a socially distanced coffee run or on the lake (again, stay socially distanced), you need a Todd Snyder shirt to get you from point A to point B. The very definition of casual luxury, the Todd Snyder Utility Shirt manages to be both rugged and refined — would you expect anything else from a menswear designer who just knows what guys want (and need)? Certainly not. This rugged utility shirt is going to be an easy go-to to throw on with everything from slim light wash denim to chino shorts — starting this weekend. What makes it so essential? I’m glad you asked.

SHOP: The Todd Snyder Utility Shirt 

Also available in a cool, essential Slate colorway.

When it comes to Memorial Day weekend style essentials, you’ve got plenty to worry about (even if your plans are different this year) — you should have the best cuts of meat to grill, some cold beer, and again … a stylish summer shirt. Crucially, this classic short-sleeve shirt checks all the right boxes, starting with the use of 100 percent Italian cotton (Albiate), to be specific), not to mention the sort of functionality you get from two front-patch pockets. Consider the Todd Snyder Utility Shirt a breezy top layer to throw on over a classic white tee or pair on its own — in any of the three colorways. Then, add slim navy chino shorts and your favorite canvas sneakers, or else step into laidback olive chinos and add casual suede chukka boots. Either look works for hours hanging out at home, playing tunes on that stylish Bluetooth speaker and hanging with the family. Whatever you end up doing this weekend (or on future summer weekends), I’d say it’ll be made better by the Todd Snyder Utility Shirt. Cheers, my friends.

SHOP: The Todd Snyder Utility Shirt 

by Beau H.

See Now, Buy Now: This Buck Mason Denim Shirt Is The Best Shirt to Buy Now

A newly iconic denim shirt from one of your favorite brands.

If you’re anything like me, you have a whole rotation of the best shirts for spring and summer that  you look forward to wearing specifically during, well, spring and summer. To be sure, a well-curated wardrobe requires menswear essentials that work across seasons (like this denim shirt!), but for the breezy days ahead of us, there’s not a pick I’m liking more at the minute than the Buck Mason Denim Vintage One-Pocket Shirt. It’s rugged, it’s stylish, it’s classic … it’s one of the best denim shirts for your hard-earned cash right now. There’s something about a rugged denim shirt that just works for these kinds of days — perhaps it’s a bit breezy in the morning as you enjoy your favorite coffee on the back porch (throw on this stylish denim shirt atop a slub tee), and then perhaps the day warms as it goes along. All throughout (and especially when working from home), this classic denim shirt is going to serve you very well indeed.

SHOP: The Buck Mason Denim Vintage One-Pocket Shirt

Standout details to improve your spring and summer style.

This Buck Mason denim shirt is available in a number of cool, perfectly faded washes, but I love the Medium Wash Denim Shirt as shown here. You can rock it buttoned or unbuttoned atop a classic white T-shirt just as readily as you can layer it over a Buck Mason henley (seriously, this brand does it all), and then on your lower half, you can rock everything from edgy, slim black jeans to classic tan chinos. Made from 100 percent indigo-dyed cotton, this is a rugged denim shirt that’s going to get better and better the more you wear it this spring and summer. Heck, in a pinch, you can even throw this shirt on underneath a lightweight navy cotton blazer for conference call-friendly style. The fit is tailored but not overly tight, the construction is next-level, and the price ($105 at Buck Mason) makes this one of the best shirts for men to buy right now. Like, right now. What are you waiting for? If you’re a fan of Buck Mason, be sure to let me know on Twitter.

SHOP: The Buck Mason Denim Vintage One-Pocket Shirt