Month / July 2020

by Beau H.

See Now, Buy Now: Throw On These Vans Authentic Sneakers For Classic Summer Style

The coolest summer sneakers are yours for the taking.

How crucial is it at this juncture of the summer that you’re still wearing some of the best sneakers for men? Put simply, it’s still very, very critical indeed.  The dog days of summer are well and truly upon us, and if you’re not dressed the right way in summer style essentials (say, with lightweight chinos and your favorite slub polo up top, and the best sneakers down below), then you’re going to start feeling it — instantly. Make no mistake, we’ve talked about how to wear chukka boots during the summer months as well, but the Vans Anaheim Factory Authentic Sneakers shown here are assuredly the way to go the rest of the time (or, most of the  time!).These classic sneakers pay homage to the original Vans factory in Anaheim (where they originally went by the No. 44 Deck Shoe), and they celebrate the brand’s longevity, too.

Heck, you’ve probably had a pair of Vans sneakers in your wardrobe since … middle school? High school? Guilty as charged here. You see, you can’t put a premium on the best sneakers for summer — they tend to work with everything, they offer up classic, casual style in spades, and they’re perfect for throwing on at a moment’s notice. Hence, the Vans Authentic Sneakers you see above — talk about a classic pair of sneakers for summer, am I right?

SHOP: The Vans Anaheim Factory Authentic Sneakers

Low-profile casual sneakers to wear through plenty of summer’s remaining days.

Still with me on this? Good. The best men’s sneakers to buy right now, as you’ve probably gathered, are affordable, durable and made to go just about anywhere. For me, the coolest thing about Vans sneakers is probably the stories you can tell as you wear them more and more each summer — the more beat-up they get (within reason!), the better these classic casual sneakers look.  You know the drill with Vans — you get a laidback, low-profile silhouette, a tough textile upper and the brand’s signature rubber waffle outsole. These are all huge positives in my book. And in terms of style points, these Vans Authentic Sneakers deliver — that’s the case whether you wear them with your favorite chambray shirt and olive chinos, or the best summer shorts and a classic white tee. From there, it’s up to you where you go — the Vans Anaheim Factory Authentic Sneakers are with you every step of the way. If you plan to buy them, reach out to me on Twitter.

SHOP: The Vans Anaheim Factory Authentic Sneakers

by Beau H.

#OOTD: How to Wear Your New Favorite Summer Boots (Seriously)

Our ongoing #OOTD series rolls on, and in perfect summer style, too. “But wait a second … boots? In the summer? How does that work?” Ahh, well, my friends … it works something like the below ensemble. A man of taste has a lot of ground to cover these days, from knowing how to wear a short-sleeve shirt to how to rock chukka boots this season. That being said, it’s fun to switch things up from straightforward summer classics every now and again as these months wear on. Today’s pick — stylish Chelsea boots from Astorflex — checks all the right boxes.  Today’s #OOTD just gets it right (in my humble opinion) on a number of fronts. Again, lightweight boots are the perfect way to build a look from the ground up, accented by an equally lightweight summer shirt and easygoing chinos. I won’t spoil the whole look, though — you’ll need to keep reading for the rest. But in this day and age, where is the below look taking you? For starters, it’s going to work quite alright to hang out around the house, the bonfire or the back patio (that’s what the stylish home speaker seen below is for). Aside from that, things are quite a bit different beyond your front door. I’d say this is the kind of go-to summer style you can wear to work from home, and you can assuredly take this look for a spin as you pick up to-go cocktails or coffee — hey, it’s the new normal, right? Sharp style is an everyday thing, and shaking things up from your reliable summer style essentials even slightly can prove useful and enjoyable. As ever, you’ve got to start things out from, quite literally, the ground up. So, let’s check out how to wear your boots this summer — enjoy, folks.

Chelsea boots to ground this outfit, teamed up with plenty other style essentials.

 

OK, folks. Who’s onboard with wearing your new favorite boots for summer as often as possible for the rest of the season? When you take a look at the men’s style essentials they’re teamed up with, it becomes all the more feasible to consider. Take an organic cotton shirt from Flint and Tinder to keep things casual and breezy, then keep that pace moving right along with organic cotton chinos in an easygoing fit and fabric (plus, a cool-as-heck Navy color). Your new favorite chinos are nothing without some classic men’s socks to accessorize alongside those lightweight Chelsea boots, so make sure you pick up a pair of those, too. Elsewhere, you’re putting plenty of style points up on the virtual scoreboard with an iconic Todd Snyder x Timex watch — it’s seriously one of the coolest watches for guys that your author has seen in some time. Because this look is suited for work or play, and for drawing up ideas at home or heading into the office via social distancing, a Bellroy work folio is going to help you keep your everyday carry essentials in check. And particularly if you’re at home (and especially if you happen to be entertaining), the best audio equipment can enliven any space — that’s where Tivoli Audio gets it done. Certainly, some stylish summer sunglasses tie this whole look together in a way that says you’re cool and stylish, but know how to buckle down when the time comes. After  all, isn’t that what every #OOTD should do?

by Beau H.

The List: Add These Men’s Style Essentials for Summer to Your Wardrobe Now

Looking toward the rest of summer with these rugged utility pants.

Right, then. Can you believe it’s nearly the end of July? I certainly can’t — but that’s not going to stop me from recommending that you stock up on the best summer style essentials to carry us through the home stretch of the season. The best new men’s gear will run the gamut in today’s post, from tough utility pants (via Flint and Tinder) to the coolest summer shirt (from Buck Mason!) to a must-have everyday carry essential (from Billykirk, naturally). So, if you want to shake up your wardrobe for some social distancing and summer adventures, keep on reading. To get in touch on any of these picks, find me on Twitter.

Flint and Tinder Tailored Stretch Utility Pants — $128

Tough, durable, work, hiking and adventure pants for summer.

We’ve talked plenty in past editions of The List about Flint and Tinder‘s rugged men’s gear, but what makes this entry different? Namely, these tough utility pants are a step up — think of them more like tailored cargo pants (yes, cargo pants!), made from a breathable cotton-spandex blend with military-inspired side pockets. They’re some of the most rugged pants for summer adventures & yard (and anything else!), and you’d do well to snag a pair right now.

Buck Mason Chambray Short-Sleeve Shirt — $95

An incredibly cool short-sleeve shirt for summer.

Summer calls for a stylish short-sleeve shirt, the kind that’s breezy, cool, casual & versatile. Well, Buck Mason yet again delivers one of the best short-sleeve shirts out there. Wear it with your Flint and Tinder Tailored Stretch Utility Pants, folks.

Todd Snyder Japanese Knit Chore Coat in Olive — $398

One of the toughest, best men’s chore coats on the market — from Todd Snyder, of course.

There are going to be plenty of times ahead where you need a rugged chore coat — preferably one of the best chore coats for men, at that. Throw this on during a camping trip, at a bonfire or heading out to grab to-go beers — Todd Snyder has you covered, as always.

Taylor Stitch Long Haul Jacket in Organic ’68 24-Month Wash — $188

A classic denim jacket that you’ll wear the rest of summer.

Another stylish summer jacket comin’ at ya — once more, I’m recommending the Taylor Stitch Long Haul Jacket (see a past pick here). To me, this light wash denim jacket is a stone-cold summer classic & one of the best denim jackets around.

Buck Mason Anti-Microbial Prevention Face Mask (5-Pack) — $20

Very likely one of the best face masks out there for the price and quality.

Yes, another pick from Buck Mason — this one is all the more critical, though. This is a surprisingly stylish face mask, and it helps that one of your favorite menswear brands is making it. You can also get a 250-pack of face masks from the good folks at Buck Mason, if needed.

Wellen Hemp Polo — $58

A breezy, stylish polo for summer, made to be worn as often as possible.

The time is still upon us to wear one of the best men’s polos — ASAP. The good folks at Wellen make some of the most sustainable menswear on the planet, and the Wellen Hemp Polo (a favorite of the blog!) is  no exception. Wear this, perhaps the best polo for summer, with your favorite chinos and stylish leather loafers.

Freemans Sporting Club Denim Western Shirt — $250

The coolest denim shirt for guys right now? For yourself? Very likely.

You’ve read about Freemans Sporting Club this summer on the blog, so let’s dive into what makes this brand so great. Here, they’re offering up their take on the best denim shirt here, one that’s so iconic and classic, you’ll want to wear it every day. It’s an investment-level denim shirt, but one that’ll easily pay off.
Cantonment Kerchief + Woggle Set — $40

Use this kerchief as a face covering or a go-anywhere essential.

Isn’t it amazing what versatility a stylish kerchief can bring to your everyday carry? Perhaps you haven’t considered this workshop-friendly, adventure-minded accessory as being critical to your day, but I’d wager that’ll change once you check out what Cantonment is doing. Cantonment offers three styles of kerchief, made from soft cotton. The cloth pairs up with the proprietary Woggle-Toggle™ system to act as a handy additional touch — use the kerchief as a face covering by utilizing the Woggle, or keep an extra kerchief at your belt. Plus, they just look darn cool. too.

CLAE Malone Sneakers — $160

Classic summer sneakers in a cool, retro-inspired silhouette.

Hey now, the time is still right to pick up some of the best men’s sneakers for summer — and the CLAE Malone Sneakers, with their court-inspired style, are simply perfect. Pair ’em up with your new favorite shorts.

Howler Brothers Cornerstone Corduroy Shorts — $69

Cool, retro-inspired summer shorts from Howler Brothers.

What are you going to wear with your CLAE Malone Sneakers? As just mentioned, you’re going to be wearing some of the best men’s shorts — you’ve got to love these retro corduroy shorts from Howler Brothers, right?

Billykirk No. 513 Standard Issue Duffel in Olive — $260

One of the toughest duffel bags on the market.

When you need one of the best duffel bags for a summer getaway, you need to turn to the good folks at New Jersey-based Billykirk. They’ve been making the best everyday carry gear for decades, and the handsome No. 513 Standard Issue Duffel is no exception.

HELM Boots Muller Brown Leather Boots — $385

Some of the most rugged men’s boots for a summer getaway (or any time of year). 

Quick, what’s another piece of rugged men’s gear you need for a weekend getaway? That’s easy — some of the best leather boots for men, from Austin-based HELM Boots. Wear these with your favorite denim.

Zodiac Super Sea Wolf 53 Compression Watch — $1,395

An unstoppable, investment-worthy watch from Huckberry.

Let’s pivot for a second to talk about Zodiac Watches, and why exactly you need to invest in the remarkable Zodiac Super Sea Wolf 53 Compression Watch. To put it simply: It’s a great-looking everyday watch, it can go absolutely anywhere (even the depths of the ocean), and it’s one of the best men’s watches out there, period. On the same page? Good.

GREATS Wooster Suede in Light Grey — $149

The best slip-on sneakers for men out there? You be the judge of that.

The famed GREATS Wooster, some of the best slip-on sneakers for men, has made a triumphant return to the brand (in fact, I published a GREATS Wooster review way back in the day!). These are stylish slip-on sneakers that won’t break the bank.

Material The Fundamentals Kitchen Set — $175

Some of the best tools for your kitchen to shop right now.

Let’s turn our attention toward the kitchen tools you’re using every day (and likely a lot more during quarantine!). Have you found one of the best kitchen tool sets yet? If not, get the Material Fundamentals Kitchen Set, featuring all the best kitchen equipment to whip up tasty meals. Head to over to the Huckberry Pantry and Provisions page to stock up, too.

High Brew Coffee Black and Bold Cold Brew — $10

Bold, coffee-forward cold brew in a can? Sign me up.

Hey, shopping for all the best men’s gear is enough to make anyone search for some of the best cold brew, is it not? With the spirit of convenience and quality in mind, High Brew Coffee makes some of the best-tasting canned cold brew I’ve tried, with a range of flavors — including the excellent Black & Bold (dairy-free and just 10 calories!). Thanks to the brand for sending, as I’ve been testing out to fuel the blog (like right now!).
If you can believe it, that’s going to wrap up today’s guide to the best men’s gear. What are you adding to your wish list? Will you be focused on the home front and picking up the Material Fundamentals Kitchen Set or focused on investing in the very best with the Zodiac Super Sea Wolf 53 Compression Watch? What about snapping up, say, a Freemans Sporting Club denim shirt or the the Taylor Stitch Long Haul Jacket? There are plentiful choices for the stylish guy these days — my favorite out of all the above picks could be the Todd Snyder Japanese Knit Chore Coat, though. To chime in, comment below or head over to Twitter. Thanks for reading!

 

by Beau H.

The Sunday Sale: Shop The Best Men’s Style Picks from PAIGE’s Semi-Annual Sale

PAIGE Denim

Get yourself some of the best men’s denim — and more — via the PAIGE Semi-Annual Sale.

Welcome to The Sunday Sale, my friends — this is a new, semi-regular series where we’ll highlight one of the best men’s style deals and sales running at the moment. And what better way to kick it off than with an underrated brand that deserves some more attention, ehh? Based in Los Angeles, PAIGE exudes the kind of laidback California cool that’s perfect for the summer heat — and any time of year, really. Now through August 3rd, you can take an additional 20 percent off the below prices through the brand’s Semi-Annual Sale by using the code ENDOFSALE20 at checkout. 

PAIGE is perhaps best known for making some of the best jeans for men, although they offer a full line of can’t-miss men’s shirts, henleys, sweaters and plenty more (along with women’s style picks, too!). The point being, they’re an under-the-radar brand to know — and it’s crucial that you shop the ongoing PAIGE Semi-Annual Sale to find out exactly why.

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Trust me folks, these are some stellar men’s style deals not to be missed. On that note: Here are my top picks from the PAIGE Semi-Annual Sale (five, to be exact). Get in touch on Twitter if you end up shopping this sale. Cheers to Sunday & thanks for reading!

Shop Western Rise Today!

PAIGE Federal Slim-Straight Jeans in Rosenberg Wash — $119.90

Slim-straight jeans in a medium wash? On sale? Best snap ’em up now.

Finding one of the best pairs of jeans for men comes down to a few things, including fit, fabric and versatility. The PAIGE Federal Jeans, in a slim-straight cut and medium wash, check all the right boxes easily.

PAIGE Hardwood Short-Sleeve Henley — $53.90

One of the best henleys for men — for the price — so pick up yours now.

What goes better with some of the best men’s jeans than a rugged short-sleeve henley? Especially right now, there’s not much to top it. You can’t beat the price on this classic henley these days.

PAIGE Everett Shirt in Moxon Night — $94.90

A casual, rugged, go-anywhere men’s shirt.

Again, name a better pairing with the best men’s jeans than a classic casual shirt. This cotton-blend buttondown shirt is able to be worn right now, and then on into fall and winter with ease. Heck, you can even wear it to the office with your PAIGE Federal Jeans when the time comes.

PAIGE Stafford Chino Trousers in Golden Elm — $118.90

The best men’s chinos — and from a brand that makes some of the best men’s denim, too.

What better place to go to get some tailored men’s chinos than a brand that specializes in making the best jeans for men, right? The PAIGE Stafford Trousers are nearly too good to be true.

PAIGE Hayward Bomber Jacket in Black Coffee — $159

Snag this classic bomber jacket for a great deal ASAP.

It might seem crazy, but there’s really no time like right now to buy a classic men’s bomber jacket, especially for under $200. Made from a poly-rayon blend, this rugged bomber jacket is easy to wear right now atop, say, an equally rugged short-sleeve henley.

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Alright, my friends. Did you get enough Sunday sale inspiration? I sure do hope so. We’ll be back tomorrow with a new edition of The List, celebrating the best gear of the week, but be sure to swing by PAIGE and get up to 60 percent off at PAIGE through the brand’s Semi-Annual Sale right now. 

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Vetra Linen Chore Coat

The coolest new jacket to buy for summer, no doubt about it.

OK, so here’s the deal: You’re a guy who loves a rugged chore coat — that makes two of us! But you fear that it’s a bit too hot to rock one of the best chore coats this time of year; it’s July, after all. But what if I told you there’s an easy solution, a way that you can keep wearing your new favorite chore coat with ease and style in mind? It might sound hard to believe, but it really is as simple as that — particularly when said chore coat happens to be the lightweight, durable, dependable Vetra Linen Chore Coat. Cut from a summer-friendly fabric with the sort of hybrid style only the best men’s jackets can provide, Vetra has really done a number on this one (a worthy addition to your list of summer style essentials, no doubt). What makes the Vetra Linen Chore Coat a winner? It’s pretty simple when you dig into it, folks.

HELM Boots

SHOP: The Vetra Linen Chore Coat

Difference-making details here from Vetra.

The list of positives just goes on and on when it comes to this stylish lightweight chore coat, starting, of course, with that workwear silhouette. It’s cooler and more functional than a traditional blazer, tying into Vetra’s rich heritage making jackets in France. The Vetra Linen Chore Coat channels old-school style that’s also refreshingly modern — wear this chore coat atop your favorite T-shirt with faded light wash denim and suede chukka boots for workday-ready style, and keep the Vetra Linen Chore Coat around for your weekend pursuits (thrown atop a classic Oxford shirt and tan chinos to get some to-go beers, perhaps). When you want to go off-trail or gear up for a camping trip, consider keeping this surprisingly durable chore coat close at hand, too.

After all, the navy colorway pairs well with olive trail shorts or grey hiking pants in equal measure, all the while offering up space for your everyday carry essentials. And when you just want a change of pace while kicking back at home? Go right ahead and pair the Vetra Linen Chore Coat with a classic white tee and broken-in blue jeans — just like that, you’re cool as can be and ready to head out the door at a moment’s notice. Just when you thought you had summer style all figured out, along comes a new favorite summer jacket to shake things up. Happy shopping, folks.

SHOP: The Vetra Linen Chore Coat

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: Oars + Alps, The Best Beard Conditioners & the Nike Killshot

Readying for the weekend with the best men’s grooming products from Oars + Alps. Get 15 percent off with the code BEAU15.

My friends, are you ready for the weekend yet? I know I sure am — in fact, it feels as if my weekend started a little early. The big news in my neck of the woods? After five-plus years at my agency day job handling PR and social media, I’m stepping back as of earlier this week to focus full-time on menswear writing and other projects! You can head here to read more, and head to my personal Web site for my full background. It’s an EXTREMELY exciting prospect, so if you’re a brand or agency in need of a (relatively good!) writer or social media pro, PLEASE reach out! That being said, I’ve got plenty to get through in the rest of today’s Friday Read in the meantime. Thanks for joining us, thanks for reading & thank you for your support! Now, to business.

Telling you all about how to get 15 percent off at Oars + Alps today.

First things first, let’s really get things going with some of the best men’s grooming essentials in the business. Keeping your face in shape during the heat of summer is a tall task, but there’s a brand out there that can help you do it: Oars + Alps. I’ve had the good fortune to test out the brand these past few weeks (and over the years, going back to 2017!), and you’ve got just as great a chance to get to know ’em. You can use the code BEAU15 to get 15 percent off at Oars + Alps, including must-buy products like the hydrating and anti-aging Face and Eye Cream. The brand uses all-natural products like activated charcoal and aloe vera in products throughout its line, and each product also features Alpine Caribou Moss™ to reduce the effects of aging and fight pollution (which can harm your skin!). It’s great stuff, if you ask me. Again, get your weekend started right by using the code BEAU15 to get 15 percent off at Oars + Alps. While you do that, let’s get to the rest of the Friday Read below. Again, thank you for reading, thank you for your support!


That’ll wrap things up for me today, folks. If you made it this far, thanks (as always!) for reading! With all of that being said, I’ve still got one last suggestion for you. A breezy linen shirt, the kind I wrote about in this post — the kind that only lauded NYC menswear designer Todd Snyder can produce — is going to go a long way toward improving your summer style. Again, head here to check it out and read more. Oh, and one last reminder. If you want to amp up your grooming game in a hurry, you know what to do: Use the code BEAU15 to get 15 percent off at Oars + Alps, one of the best grooming brands for men I’ve seen. You heard it here first. Have a great weekend, folks!

 

 

by Beau H.

The Thursday Buy: Get the Best New T-shirt for Summer from Relwen

Editor’s note: Consider The Thursday Buy a quick jumpstart to your day.  One product, for a great deal, to get ready for the weekend.

We’ll tell you all about why you need this new pocket tee ASAP.

Folks, if this Thursday post caught you off-guard, well, fear not. We’re here today for a new Style Guide mini-series, as it were. If you read the blog on the regular — and if you don’t, consider this a crash course! — other ongoing series include #OOTD posts, the See Now, Buy Now series and of course, The List. Naturally, The List rounds up the best men’s gear, #OOTD posts cover how to wear men’s style essentials, and the See Now Buy Now series spotlights one great pick for the week. The Thursday Buy will be in a similar manner, but … not quite. It’ll be shorter, for starters — aside from this intro, that is. Here’s your first Thursday Buy, my friends. 

Take your pick from among the best T-shirts for guys right now.

Let’s get one thing sorted out ASAP: There’s still plenty of time to buy one of the best men’s T-shirts, then wear it the rest of summer. And the best T-shirt for men to buy right now might just be the Relwen Finespun Pocket Tee, making it a fitting pick for our first Thursday Buy. It’s priced to sell ($68 at Huckberry), it looks great with darn near anything — from expertly faded blue jeans and high-top sneakers to slim chinos and suede chukka boots — and it comes in perfectly neutral colors. The finespun jersey fabric is also ultra-soft and truly one-of-a-kind, making this one of the best men’s tees you can add to your wardrobe now. Plus, the chest pocket means you can rock this stylish tee all on its own without it looking like an undershirt. Consider picking up the Relwen Finespun Pocket Tee to power many a Thursday night or weekend beer — or a Sunday morning mug of cold brew. It’s so cool and essential, you’ll have to make excuses not to wear it.

SHOP: The Relwen Finespun Pocket Tee

by Beau H.

See Now, Buy Now: Try Out This Todd Snyder Shirt for Hot Summer Days

A breezy, cool-as-can-be linen shirt for hot summer days — all from Todd Snyder.

Alright, my friends. We talked earlier this summer about how essential a Todd Snyder shirt can be for the summer months, and we’re back at it again today with the latest and greatest summer style move from the lauded NYC menswear designer as part of our ever-running See Now, Buy Now series. The point being, if you want a classic summer shirt that blends an ever-so-slightly rugged appeal with the type of breezy fabric the season requires, you want this Todd Snyder Italian Linen Utility Shirt. If you recall, we previously featured the rugged and functional Todd Snyder Utility Shirt on the blog in a short-sleeve cut, but what if you want a little more coverage from the sun’s rays? Then this Todd Snyder linen shirt is the right way to go. Linen is perhaps the quintessential summer fabric, featuring a looser and more breathable weave to keep you cool. That means it tends to wrinkle more easily, but hey … who said a bit of character was a bad thing? It’s certainly not going to change the fact that Todd Snyder has come up with one of the best summer shirts for men, no doubt.

SHOP: The Todd Snyder Italian Linen Utility Shirt

Easygoing fabric and a great summer colorway help set this summer shirt apart.

What makes the Todd Snyder Italian Linen Utility Shirt so essential? For one, it’s modeled off the classic and pocket-filled safari shirt, a staple that Mr. Todd Snyder has made all his own in recent years. This one gets a more tailored cut — yet you can still layer it atop your favorite T-shirt — and it also features handy front-button chest pockets. The fabric is breezy and breathable Solbiati Italian linen, also done up nicely in a breezy Teal color. That summer-friendly shade makes this an excellent shirt to wear when it’s hot out — and because it’s linen, you can team this Todd Snyder shirt with everything from slim tan chinos and white leather sneakers to easygoing leather loafers and navy chino shorts. Your summer plans might be more socially distanced than usual, but the Todd Snyder Italian Linen Utility Shirt is undoubtedly going to get you through the dog days of summer in style. Try it, find out and then let me know your thoughts on Twitter.

SHOP: The Todd Snyder Italian Linen Utility Shirt

by Beau H.

#OOTD: Here’s How to Wear A Polo This Summer

The days of the old polo shirt you used to wear are over — at least, I think they should be. That’s where we’re going with today’s look, led by perhaps the best new polo on the market. Said polo shirt is a performance polo that also incorporates serious style points via Western Rise — as you’ll see below — but let’s get into the “Why” and “How”‘ first, shall we? Now, to be clear: Our #OOTD series has covered quite a bit of ground already this summer, from how to style your short-sleeve shirt to how to wear a rugged henley. On that note, consider this latest entry a bit of a step up in dressy, refined style for the summer, to say the least. The right polo shirt can go sharp or casual, and we’ll mix in just a bit of both today. Let’s say you’re very, very slowly but surely heading back to the office, or more likely … just looking to mix up your at-home style a bit. If you’ve grown tired of sneakers and even slim light wash jeans, then today’s look is going to suit you quite nicely. We’ll pair your Western Rise polo with stylish five-pocket pants, and we’ll go a step further with a pair of the best leather loafers. As to the rest of the ensemble, I think you’ll find it’s crisp, razor-sharp and ready to shake up your summer. Long story short: If you’ve been wondering how to wear a polo this summer, allow me to point you in the right direction. And if you like this look, feel free to let me know on Twitter.

A classy, sharp, refined way to wear a polo this summer.

Alright, that wasn’t too bad … was it? When you shake things up right from the get-go with a merino polo from Western Rise, you’re naturally stepping up your game from other polo shirts. It’s going to keep you cool and refreshed on a hot summer’s day, as are the rest of your key ensemble picks. Take those Crockett and Jones loafers, for instance. They just so happen to be stylish and refined loafers that work on a sweltering day by keeping you cool (margarita not included). When you team them up with some Buck Mason pants in a durable-yet-lightweight canvas, the look gets all the better. And your new favorite watch — from Timex, naturally — helps keep you on schedule in seriously cool retro style. As ever, the details make the difference here. Because you’re wearing stylish brown leather loafers, you need one of the best leather belts for men to properly accessorize the whole ensemble, and Billykirk gets it more than right. To stay organized at home or at work, something like a stylish leather tech folio from Bellroy is going to get the job done (pun intended). I’m also a fan of the Raen Optics Wiley Sunglasses — they’re a bit dressy and a bit casual, and all classic. Last but certainly not least, a pair of the best wireless headphones delivers a rich, truly excellent listening experience, whether plugged into your home system or your laptop. I think we covered all the bases, did we not? Feel free to let me know your thoughts on Twitter or follow me on Instagram for more style content. Thanks for reading! 

by Beau H.

The List: A New Watch and New Sneakers Are Some of The 20 Best Summer Style Essentials

An ideal short-sleeve shirt for summer adventures, guaranteed.

It’s a new week, and to get things started off in style, how about we chat about some summer style essentials via a new edition of The List, ehh? Alright, sounds like a plan. By now, perhaps you feel you’ve been dressing in style for summer for a while now — too long, in fact. That’s what today’s men’s gear picks are here to fix — in fact, I put together 20 of the best gear picks for summer to buy now, including stylish sneakers for summer and plenty more. Consider these pieces a mini-wardrobe refresh to help you power through these dog days ahead, starting with (you guessed it), the perfect short-sleeve shirt for summer. Adventure awaits — let’s get right to it.

Wellen Eddy Shirt — $88

This adventure-minded shirt is also available in a cool Plaid pattern.

The best men’s short-sleeve shirts have a few things in common, including an easygoing wearability. The Wellen Eddy Shirt, made from recycled polyester and organic cotton, also features a water-resistant hidden rear welt pocket perfectly sized to hold, well … a can of beer. Talk about an adventure-ready shirt.

Timex x Todd Snyder Q Bracelet Watch — $179

Durable, classic and modern from Timex and Todd Snyder.

See, I told you we’d be talking about a new watch for summer. Heck, what else goes perfectly with your new favorite short-sleeve shirt? An iconic (and fast-selling) Timex x Todd Snyder watch is the answer here, specifically, the standout Timex x Todd Snyder Q Bracelet Watch. Talk about a watch that’s perfect for summer.

Taylor Stitch Adventure Shorts — $88

Rugged, go-anywhere shorts to wear the rest of summer.

In this ongoing spirit of adventure for today’s post about the best new men’s gear, why not get some suitably named, stylish summer shorts from Taylor Stitch? The DWR finish means these can go just about anywhere (especially when worn with a Taylor Stitch polo).

Frank And Oak Skipper Sneakers — $129

Stylish, sustainable sneakers from one of your favorite brands.

Here are those stylish new sneakers I mentioned. To say the very least, I go way back with the folks at Frank And Oak here on the blog (seriously, check out this throwback Frank And Oak review!). All that being said, we’ve both grown a lot in time, and now, Frank And Oak is making some of the most sustainable sneakers for men out there. They could just be your new favorite summer sneakers, too.

Buck Mason Slub Knit Bandana 2-Pack — $28

The coolest face covering out there? Quite possibly.

There’s no getting away from needing a stylish face covering for a long while ahead — might as well go with a seriously cool Buck Mason bandana in a slub knit fabric, like a “T-shirt for your face.” I’ve been testing these out from the brand recently, and I can report that they’re very, very cool.

Ray-Ban Aviator Sunglasses via GlassesUSA.com — $154

Classic sunglasses for utterly classic style.

The benefits of buying stylish sunglasses from GlassesUSA.com? Nearly too many to count, starting with the 365-day warranty and 100 percent money back guarantee. Oh, and the fact that you can pick up classic sunglasses like the iconic Ray-Ban aviators alongside stylish prescription glasses? Things just keep getting better and better. Add in the fact that you can customize your sunglasses with prescription lenses … that’s just icing on the cake.
Mott and Bow Slim Mercer Jeans in Khaki — $118

Slim jeans in a summer-ready fabric.

The good folks at Mott and Bow just know how to make some of the best men’s jeans — they’re a longtime favorite of the blog for that very reason. And the Mott and Bow Slim Mercer Jeans, with a lightweight construction and a summer-friendly color, are ideal for the season.

Flint and Tinder Light Wash Denim Jacket — $178

The absolute coolest denim jacket to buy right now.

Is it any wonder that Flint and Tinder makes, quite simply, one of the best denim jackets out there? The light wash and easy-to-layer weight make this perfect to throw on atop, say, your Wellen Eddy Shirt.

YETI LoadOut Go Box 30 — $250

A rugged color made for all your summer excursions.

Hey, who can resist the call of the wild for a little outdoor adventure this season? Get off the beaten path with the best camping gear, and specifically, one of the toughest coolers on the market via YETI. It gets the job done.

Sonic Editions “Connery in Goldfinger” Print — $349

Add a piece of history to your wall, ASAP.

We’ve talked in the past about some of the coolest prints for your home, and as luck would have it, they’re being made by Sonic Editions and sold by my friends at Huckberry. Sean Connery in “Goldfinger” gets the iconic and truly excellent treatment in this gallery-quality print. Perfect for your den or office.

Billykirk No. 495 Camera Strap — $115

Quite possibly the coolest way to carry your camera this summer.

What better way to document your adventures this summer than on camera — and assisted by a seriously stylish camera strap from Billykirk, no less? The No. 495 Camera Strap is as well-made as it gets.

Nisolo Travel Derby in Brandy Leather — $130

The best shoes for summer? You be the judge of that.

You’ve assuredly read about these stylish summer shoes previously on the blog, but get a load of this — they’ve updated the Nisolo Travel Derby in stylish, handsome leather, making them some of the coolest shoes for summer (no doubt). Wear them with your Mott and Bow denim, for starters.

Peg & Awl Expedition Stool — $240

The rugged leather stool to upgrade your campire or den.

Hey now, let’s close out this post with an essential piece of stylish summer furniture. Namely, the Peg & Awl Expedition Stool is incredibly well-made — it features vegetable-tanned leather and sustainably sourced oak — and perfectly sized to fit in your den, your office or out around the bonfire.

Richer Poorer Pullover Hoodie — $78

An ideal casual hoodie for summer nights from Richer Poorer and Bespoke Post.

Let’s say you’re taking the Nisolo Travel Derby for a spin on a casual summer night (perhaps at a bonfire) … in that case, you need one of the best hooded sweatshirts for the season, and this easygoing option from Richer Poorer is as solid a bet as any.

Danner Trail 2650 Mid — $180

Perfect hiking boots for plenty of off-road summer excursions.

Let’s shift away from lightweight summer footwear for a second, shall we? Your adventures off-trail call for some of the best men’s hiking boots, yet it’s also handy if those hiking boots look darn good while they’re helping you through rugged terrain. The Danner Trail 2650 Mid checks all the right boxes there, folks.

Grayers Horizon Summer Twill Short-Sleeve Shirt — $88

The perfect short-sleeve shirt to wear on casual summer days.

Sometimes, you just need a straightforward, stylish short-sleeve shirt. Made from a lightweight cotton twill in a breezy summer color, this classic summer shirt from Grayers is perfect to wear with, for example, slim tan chinos and white sneakers. Simple as that (and available for a nice price).
Roka Halsey Sunglasses — $145

Cool-as-can-be sunglasses to wear all summer long.

Alright, so you’ve got your stylish short-sleeve shirt and you’ve stocked your YETI cooler (more on what it’s stocked with in just a second). You’d be remiss if you didn’t accessorize for the day with some of the most stylish men’s sunglasses from Roka, featuring a unique design and paramount functionality.
Cutwater Spirits Lime Vodka Soda — $12.99 via Drizly

Tasty, refreshing and perfect for summer.

Looking for a perfectly acceptable pairing with your Grayers short-sleeve shirt? Allow me to introduce the seriously refreshing, lo-cal Cutwater Spirits Lime Vodka Soda. Now, I love great beer as much as the next guy, but I’ve found that a palette cleanser is necessary throughout the week. As I’ve tested out out Cutwater Spirits, I’ve been mighty impressed at the flavor and crisp, refreshing drinking experience (it helps that it starts with the distillery’s Cutwater Vodka). Cheers to that, ehh?
Hawthorne Hand Care Kit — $28

Two steps to take care of your hands this summer.

Staying safe and hygienic should still be top of mind for everyone — why not get a stylish and effective kit of two hand care essentials that helps you meet this aim easily? You’ve also got the choice to customize your hand care kit after a brief survey, so it’s tailored to the needs of your skin. After testing the kit courtesy of the brand, I’m a big fan.
Bellroy Weekender Plus — $279

Pack up this roomy weekender bag with all your travel essentials — when the time comes, of course.

Why don’t we close things out the right away — with a bit of a look toward the future? After all, you’ll eventually need one of the best weekender bags to plan out your next trip, and you might as well go with the Bellroy Weekender Plus. Featuring a whopping 45 liters of carrying capacity and made from water-resistant woven fabric that’s also crafted from recycled materials,it’s one of the coolest weekender bags I’ve seen.

HELM Boots

That’s going to wrap up today’s edition of The List. How many of the above picks are now on your shopping wish list? And where to even begin??

HELM Boots

It’s tough to pass up planning for the future, as one of the coolest weekender bags might help you do, but I’m also all for getting out and about right now — that’s where picks like a Buck Mason bandana or the Timex x Todd Snyder Q Bracelet Watch can help. Of course, I’m also partial to the incredibly cool and well-designed Wellen Eddy Shirt or the summer-friendly style of the iconic Ray-Ban aviators or a classic summer shirt from Grayers. To give me your take on these picks, join me over on Twitter. Cheers!