Author / Beau H.

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Criquet Shirts Striped Player’s Shirt

A clean, classic polo with eye-catching stripes and a quality fit. That’s what Criquet Shirts does so well.

Now, I know we’ve been talking about rugged early fall style here on the blog for a few weeks now, but … well, what if it’s not quite cold enough to layer up yet in your neck of the woods? Or, what if you deal with the heat year-round and want a wardrobe refresh? That’s what today’s Style Pick of the Week dives into — the Criquet Shirts Striped Player’s Shirt is your answer to both questions above, to say the least.  It’s gotta be among the best men’s polo shirts, for a few good reasons. Here at The Style Guide, we love the all-American style and crisp design brought to the table by Criquet Shirts— and if you want to squeeze every last drop out of what’s left of the warm weather, a  stylish striped polo is certainly a great way to do that. Crucially, the Striped Player’s Shirt retains all the key style details that you appreciate from Criquet Shirts (see this entry in our Style Pick of the Week series for more).  So, we’re talking a substantial, crisp collar and organic cotton jersey fabric. Plus, the bright white base on the Striped Player’s Shirt is a nice nod to breezy style in warm weather. And the fit on the Striped Player’s Shirt? It’s classic through and through — not too slim, not too baggy. So, once you’ve added the Striped Player’s Shirt to your shopping cart … perhaps you’re wondering how to wear a polo shirt to maximize the last of the warm weather?

In short, I’d break out the Striped Player’s Shirt just as often as I could before chilly weather starts to roll in. It’s a stylish, classic complement to your favorite pair of tan chinos, ideally teamed up with classic white sneakers for a bit of preppy style. The good news is, the Criquet Shirts Striped Player’s Shirt works quite well with more rugged pieces. Trust me — with its sharp four-button placket, you can throw the Criquet Shirts Striped Player’s Shirt on underneath an indigo denim jacket, finished off with stylish leather high-top sneakers. That sort of outfit is great for grabbing a beer with buddies or kicking back at your favorite Sunday brunch spot. And if you want to dial in a  business casual look, the Striped Player’s Shirt can get the job done there, too. Simply add a classic navy blazer, grey chinos and perhaps leather loafers — that combo is going to work for the rest of the month. And if you live in a warm climate? You can take the Striped Player’s Shirt with you nearly everywhere — a patio dinner, a rooftop bar, the beach … seriously the Striped Player’s Shirt can go anywhere. Criquet Shirts has again done a standout job crafting a sharp, tailored polo that toes the line between dressy and casual — pick it up now and wear it as long as you can.

Are you a fan of the Striped Player’s Shirt from Criquet Shirts? How would you style this shirt in warm weather?

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: Todd Snyder, The Meadows NYC and the Best Outdoor Shirts for Men

Wait a second … what do the above topics in that headline have to do with each other? Well, they’re the subject of today’s Friday Read on The Style Guide — at least, partially anyway. We’re capping off a great transitional week of weather here in NYC — did you catch this week’s #OOTD on how to wear a rugged overshirt for fall? It’s a great one, if I do say so myself.  Perhaps my Instagram can be of service if you want some real-time #menswear tips, too? And if you follow me on the ‘Gram or on Twitter, you saw my early fall weekend trip to Nashville  — but more on that in a second. How’s your fall style wish list coming along? Quite nicely, I’d hope? If you have yet to get started, I’d point you toward my rundown of rugged fall style gear, published late last month on the blog.  And if you want a pair of stylish leather boots to tide you over,  I’d assuredly point you toward this site’s See Now, Buy Now series. Shopping isn’t the only thing on tap for me this weekend, though.

You know that we’re really, truly closing out summer and starting fall when it’s time for The Meadows NYC, a popular (and growing!) music and arts festival in its second year at Citi Field in Queens. This year’s Sunday lineup — my day of choice — packs in a diverse crowd of personal favorites, from Foster to the People to DREAMERS to Canadian pop rockers Arkells to a must-see classic, the Red Hot Chili Peppers. So, that’s where Sunday will take me — but in the meantime, I’d urge you to check out tomorrow’s Style Pick of the Week. Oh, and if we’re lucky, an all-new Sunday style post in our See Now, Buy Now series is coming down the pipeline, too.  That’s all I’ve got for now — see you out there!

  • Let’s kick this off with a great deal for you — sound like a plan? Perennial Style Guide favorites Frank and Oak, makers of elevated, premium basics and expertly crafted tailoring, are offering you 20 percent off first-time orders of $50 or more until September 30th with the code SEPT20. Yep, that’s right — 20 percent off. Who’s into that? It’s a nice deal considering that the code will knock a solid chunk of change off the brand’s stylish shirting and lightweight sweaters, both of which should absolutely be on your shopping list when it comes to early fall style essentials. Again, use the code SEPT20 to get 20 percent off first-time orders of $50 or more.  That’s a deal that bears repeating.
  • Mr. Todd Snyder makes the type of clothing that you can put on and forget about — it’s just that stylish and easy to wear. He mixes rugged menswear with easygoing pieces and excellent fabrication — and that’s certainly the case with the Todd Snyder Italian Boucle Shirt Jacket, my latest feature for GearMoose! Blending the best of cool, continental style, this piece would look right at home over a classic Oxford shirt or a grey chambray shirt — add your favorite pair of dark denim, and you’re all set!
  • As I said above, I spent the past weekend exploring the outstanding city of Nashville — among those highlights were stops through imogene + willie, a standout purveyor of finely crafted denim — and a couple trips to the very cool, industrially appointed Barista Parlor. You can catch my full trip recap and get some men’s travel style tips of your own within the very same post!
  • Last but not least today: What’s an “outdoor shirt” exactly? Well, it’s a rugged piece of outerwear that can work as a shirt, as a jacket … or both. And I wrote about the 20 best outdoor shirts for guys as we head into fall — once again, over at GearMoose. Read up now, and then learn how to wear a rugged overshirt this fall here at The Style Guide.

That’ll wrap up this week’s Friday Read — again, we’ll see you for tomorrow’s Style Pick of the Week, and Sunday’s See Now, Buy Now feature!

Cheers,

-Beau

by Beau H.

See Now, Buy Now: Mark Albert Classic Chelsea Boots Are Your New Fall Footwear Pick

Rugged, durable and uniquely stylish Chelsea boots that’ll help you get through fall in style.

If you don’t yet have a pair of stylish Chelsea boots in your early fall footwear rotation, it’s time to change that; in fact, today’s See Now, Buy Now entry is absolutely going to help you in that regard. Stylish leather Chelsea boots are widely accepted now in the menswear world for their combination of slick looks, classic style and easy wearability — it’s an on-trend style of footwear that manages to tie back decades. I certainly love breaking out a pair whenever I get the chance. And the Mark Albert Classic Chelsea Boot is the latest silhouette to join that lineage — and to join my wish list. In short, if you want a slick pair of men’s Chelsea boots that convey both rugged style and a bit of rock-ready edge, these are the boots to … well, see now AND buy now. Ya dig? The Mark Albert Classic Chelsea Boots  are unique in more ways than one — the Dakota Brown leather is certainly rich and visually interesting; throw in the fact that the Albert Chelsea Boot is built on a slim Western last, and you’ve got a pair of Chelsea boots that convey slim, sharp looks.

The rich brown leather and tough construction of these Chelsea boots makes them ready for the new season ahead — they’re about as rugged a pair of Chelsea boots as it gets. That means you can break them out in all sorts of situations — try them with slim black denim (yes, brown and black works!) with a rugged henley to grab a beer at your favorite brewery. Keep them at the ready for your work week, too — they’ll team stylishly with slim dark denim and a herringbone blazer if you happen to work in a slightly more casual office environment. And the rest of the time? The Mark Albert Classic Chelsea Boots fit right in with tailored wear — a navy worsted wool suit and light blue shirt are going to team up with these stylish Chelsea boots in very, very slick fashion. And as we always stress here on the blog, affordability and quality are paramount — and they should certainly go hand-in-hand when on you’re on the hunt for stylish Chelsea boots.Almost astonishingly, you can get a pair of the Mark Albert Classic Chelsea Boots for just $225 — and that includes the Pennsylvania-made construction. You’re saving quite a bit of money compared to more expensive Chelsea boots on the market — *cough Common Projects cough* — and you’re getting the rare Chelsea boot that looks better the more you wear it. Don’t worry about beating up these Mark Albert Classic Chelsea Boots this fall and winter — they can certainly handle all the style scenarios you can dream up.

Will you be picking up a pair of the Mark Albert Classic Chelsea Boots for fall and winter … and beyond? Let me know in the comments?

by Beau H.

Style Suggestion: Here’s What to Wear to Your Next Football Tailgate

Can you feel it in the air? The start of fall — soon enough, anyways — always brings with it excitement anticipation for your Style Guide author. Even as I walk through Brooklyn past changing leaves this time of year, I’m reminded of my home — the beautiful campus of Michigan State University and of course … football season. I night be far away from East Lansing now, but it’s still on my mind — and lucky for you and me, this uniquely all-American pastime is a great chance to break out classic menswear.  Today, we’re going to answer a burning question for all of us #menswear fans — what the heck do I wear to this tailgate? Whether you’re a pro football fan or a college diehard, today’s football tailgate style suggestion has a bit of something for everyone.

We’re talking rugged menswear that’s stylish, durable, weather-ready and absolutely geared toward fitting in at a sporting event. From a stylish hooded sweatshirt to a pair of perhaps the best leather sneakers for men, it’s covered below. The even better part? This fall men’s style suggestion gives you some leeway to add in team colors as you see fit — as long as you’re rooting for the green and white and not those pesky Wolverines in Ann Arbor, we should be all set. What do you think of this fall style suggestion? Let me know in the comments below, and follow me on Instagram for seasonal style tips galore.

The Hooded Sweatshirt: Flint and Tinder 10-Year Hoodie in Gray — $89

A thoughtfully designed, durably made hooded sweatshirt for fall mornings before kickoff.

There’s such a thing as a good-looking hooded sweatshirt out there, trust me. Of course, the 10-Year Hoodie is made with durable style in mind by the fine folks at Flint and Tinder — and that means it’s a wise move to layer up with this collegiate-inspired staple at your next tailgate. Unlike other hooded sweatshirts that potentially feature an oversized fit, the Flint and Tinder 10-Year Hoodie boasts tailored raglan construction, a neutral color and cozy comfort, ideal for a chilly fall morning or afternoon.

The T-shirt: Tailgate Clothing Men’s Team T-shirt — $32

A vintage-inspired team tee pairs well with a stylish hooded sweatshirt — ya dig?

Here’s the good news, folks — this part of the ensemble is really up to you. Tailgate Clothing, founded back in Iowa by famed American menswear designer Todd Snyder before he launched his own line, makes stylish men’s T-shirts emblazoned with graphics of dozens of schools — they fit well, feel great and look even better. This is certainly a stylish graphic tee that’s an upgrade over an athletic jersey. If it gets chilly, you could always layer this tee over a slim striped henley.

The Denim: Flint and Tinder All-American Washed Jeans in Slim or Straight Tapered — $98

Rugged fall style

Pleasingly faded denim for a casual fall football tailgate.

As American as football itself, what better way to nod to rugged fall style than with a classic pair of American-made denim? Because we’re going for casual style here, a pair of expertly faded denim works quite well — leave the inky blue dark denim at home this time around. Plus, the two fit options on these All-American Washed Jeans allow you to customize your look accordingly. Who’s ready for some football now?

The Sneakers: Todd Snyder x P.F. Flyers Rambler Hi Leather Sneakers — $160

Richly crafted leather sneakers, fit for a tailgate and the bar afterwards.

In sticking with today’s collegiate — or at least, throwback — theme, let’s throw on some stylish leather sneakers — shall we? The handsome Todd Snyder x P.F. Flyers Rambler Hi was a featured entry in this site’s Style Pick of the Week series back in the summer, and these classic leather high-tops will also fit right in at a fall tailgate. That’s because of the rich brown leather and sturdy construction on the Rambler Hi — it’s nearly strong enough to rival your favorite leather boots.

The Belt: Sturdy Brothers Everyday Belt in Chestnut — $80

Sturdy Brothers

A tough belt made for chilly fall days and long hours spent tailgating.

If you were looking for an excuse to upgrade your everyday belt — pun intended — then the Sturdy Brothers Everyday Belt is giving you the chance to do just that … and in time for your next tailgate, too. With tough construction, handsome looks and hardware that can go the distance, this Sturdy Brothers belt is a winner in my book — leave no stone unturned when looking for subtly stylish ways to stand out as you, well, stand around the grill.

The Watch: Timex Waterbury Watch — $95

Tough design, standout looks and classic style — that’s Timex for ya.

If there’s one thing you can be sure of with this rugged, casual #menswear ensemble, it’s that a classic timepiece is absolutely needed. Yes, that’s right — even at a football tailgate, a watch like the Timex Waterbury is going to stand out for its subtle style, sturdy construction and timeless appeal. In short, you’ll stay on time to get from your tailgate to your seats in quick order with the stylish Timex Waterbury Watch — at least, this guy thinks so.
The Socks: Necessary Anywhere Three Sock in Black — $18

Simple socks that blend in with a laidback, football-ready ensemble.

Just as with your rugged leather watch, don’t skimp when it comes to accessories — particularly stylish men’s socks. The Necessary Anywhere  Three Socks are remarkably well-made for a pair of socks, featuring double-needle Jacquard knit construction and the type of simple style that works well with classic leather sneakers at a tailgate.

The Ballcap: Huckberry Explorer’s Cap — $39.98

A vintage ballcap for clean, simple style.

Before you head out the door, six-pack in hand, don’t forget a trusty ballcap — maybe a vintage-inspired ballcap, that is to say? With its classic design and crisp color, the Huckberry Explorer’s Cap in Black is yet another accessory that eschews the traditional logo-heavy approach. Oh, and it’s OK to mix the black of the Explorer’s Cap with the brown leather of your Todd Snyder x P.F. Flyers sneakers — it’s a casual affair, after all. You can wear the Explorer’s Cap no matter what team you rep.

The Essential: Orange Vessel Co. Stoneware Growler — $69.98

Don’t forget this durable, tough growler for your next tailgate — seriously.

What’s one more tailgate essential to grab before you head out the door? A durable growler, of course. Bring it filled with your host’s favorite brew or bring a little bit more for yourself — the functional, simple Orange Vessel Co. Stoneware Growler is practically a fall tailgate must-have. Guinness, anyone?
The Bottle Opener: Line of Trade Machined Steel Bottle Opener — $23.20
Line of Trade

A nice-to-have bottle opener can help out any tailgater in need — ehh?

Add one last small — yet equally important — item to your essential tailgating gear.  For all the folks out there who pass on beer out of your Orange Vessel Co. Stoneware Growler, you’ll be at the ready with a handy bottle opener from Line of Trade, ya dig? The Line of Trade Machined Steel Bottle Opener is suitably rugged and tailgate-ready. Bottoms up!

Now, who’s ready to get out there, crack open a cold one and enjoy a fall tailgate? I know I am — and hopefully, I’ll be able to get back to Michigan State to experience a perfect fall Saturday once more. For your own tailgate, I’d urge you to stock up on small but nice-to-have fall essentials, like a must-have growler and a durable bottle opener, and then focus on expert casual style in turn. That means a surprisingly stylish hooded sweatshirt from Flint and Tinder is in play, as is a uniquely vintage-inspired team T-shirt and of course, classic, American-made denim. Complement those easygoing pieces with rugged leather sneakers and a tough leather watch from Timex for tailgate style that’s eye-catching and yet seasonally appropriate. Finish it off with something like the Huckberry Explorer’s Cap, and I’d say your fall tailgate style is all set. What do ya think? Let me know in the comments below — and as always, catch me on Twitter!

Thanks for reading!

-Beau

by Beau H.

#OOTD: How to Wear a Rugged Overshirt This Fall

This week’s #OOTD fun on The Style Guide continues in fine fashion — or should I say, fall fashion? That’s right — we’re truly starting to get into rugged fall style on the blog, from the menswear to wear on a fall trip to today’s focus: How to wear a rugged overshirt this season.  The overshirt — particular a stylish Taylor Stitch overshirt as featured today — is as versatile a #menswear layering weapon as you’ve got in your fall style arsenal. Namely, it can function as both a shirt … and a jacket. For those days and nights when it’s not cold enough for a heavier top layer, an overshirt can pull double duty. Feel free to layer it over a slim striped henley or toss it on over another shirt — say, an American-made Oxford. Made with the right fabric (like the Japanese selvedge cotton found on the Taylor Stitch Maritime Shirt Jacket seen here), it’s going to provide warmth from the chill and earn you major style points at the same time. You’ll notice some other fall style touches, including stylish (yet tough!) Danner hiking boots and a classic field watch. This look is casual enough to fit in at an outdoor concert, it’s durable and rugged enough to wear to a fall tailgate … basically, a rugged overshirt is your ticket to versatile, casual style this season. Want more style tips? Follow me on Instagram. And let me know what you think of the below #OOTD in the comments below!

Rugged fall style

Classically rugged fall style — essential for a tailgate, a bonfire or a day trip. Gotta love the rugged Taylor Stitch Maritime Shirt Jacket as seen here.

The Overshirt: Taylor Stitch Maritime Shirt Jacket in Sea Washed Indigo, $118  (When Signing Up for Bespoke Post) — Ahh yes, the well-made, well-crafted and exceptionally stylish rugged overshirt we discussed earlier.  This Taylor Stitch Maritime Shirt Jacket features selvedge detailing and a modern fit.

The Henley: Taylor Stitch Mercerized Merino Henley, $125 — What are you layering under your Taylor Stitch overshirt? A rugged Taylor Stitch Mercerized Merino Henley, of course. The stripes add visual interest, and the merino wool adds breathability and classic fall style.

The Denim: DSTLD Slim Jeans in Charcoal Overdye, $85 — You could certainly throw on a pair of classic dark denim for monochromatic style, but these slim charcoal jeans from direct-to-consumer Los Angeles brand DSTLD offer a neat contrast in terms of color and texture.

The Boots:  Danner Vertigo 917 Boots, $220 — Now, you could easily swap in a pair of stylish leather sneakers here, yet these hybrid hiking boots from Danner convey both rugged style and functionality — a wise bet if you end up on your feet for longer than expected (perhaps an Octoberfest bar crawl, ehh?).

The Belt: Sturdy Brothers Everyday Belt in Chestnut, $80 — We always say that the little details make the difference here at The Style Guide, and this tough leather belt from Sturdy Brothers gets those details right.

The Socks: Arvin Goods Crew Socks (Three-pack) — $24 — If you read this blog regularly, you recognize the name Arvin Goods — the brand makes functional, understated socks at a great price. These affordable crew socks should team nicely with your Danner hiking boots.
The Watch: Momentum Watches Flatline 42 Fabric Watch, $164.98 — When your outfit is filled with adventure-ready pieces, it makes sense to grab a classic field watch. The Flatine 42 Fabric Watch from Momentum Watches gives you the durability and style you need.
The Fall Essential: Knight Co. Complete Moisturizer, $24 — Don’t overlook the importance of keeping your grooming game tuned up through the fall months — especially as colder weather descends. The Knight Co. Complete Moisturizer should prove both premium and quite helpful with that goal.

As October approaches and crisp weather rolls into town, I’d say you surely need a rugged layering piece with plenty of potential — the Taylor Stitch Maritime Shirt Jacket is going to be your ticket to essential fall style. From craft beer festivals to weekend coffee trips and perhaps a stylish fall weekend trip, there’s little that the Taylor Stitch Maritime Shirt Jacket can’t do. Particularly when layered up with a rugged striped henley — also from Taylor Stitch — you’re going to be set for fall weekends aplenty. Charcoal denim from DSTLD is a nice way to mix things up visually, while the Danner Vertigo 917 Boots offer both comfort and durability for all-day style. And with its subtly fashionable design and tough construction, the Flatine 42 Fabric Watch is the ideal casual men’s watch to offset this ensemble. Of course, no outfit is complete without taking care of your men’s grooming essentials — who else needs that Knight Co. moisturizer in their medicine cabinet? At any rate, I hope this #OOTD gets you thinking when it comes to rugged fall style. Who’s ready for the season? I sure am!

Thanks for reading and cheers,

-Beau

A

by Beau H.

Music City Menswear: Exploring Nashville in Style

Taking in a relaxing Nashville Saturday at Barista Parlor. Wearing my new Original Penguin Bedford Cord 5-Pocket Pants and a special pair of 125th Anniversary Wingtip Boots from Florsheim!

There are certain places that I’ve put on my growing personal travel bucket list in recent years — places that constantly pull me away from New York as much as I love it. And if you read The Style Guide regularly, you know that I love to get out and about in style, from exploring Brooklyn to hopping on a flight to Chicago and Lollapalooza 2017 recently. When the chance came up to take a weekend trip to Nashville, a city that’s as hyped as any for any its blend of live music, culinary delights and a cool atmosphere, I jumped on it. My parents have loved Nashville for years, so it’s  definitely been on my radar — but as I started planning out my fall travel style earlier this year, I knew I wanted to pack in as much as possible when it came to seeing the Music City. That meant this weekend was filled with #menswear, craft beer and of course, live music — namely, a high-energy, passion-packed show from Young the Giant, supported by Cold War Kids and Joywave! Of course, if you follow me on Instagram you’re familiar with my trip — and if not, come along for the ride.

The right mix of sharp, versatile travel gear for getting from NYC to Nashville.

Getting to Nashville is no easy feat — as it were, I had to catch a very early flight out of NYC, but that left me with nearly a full day in the Music City. How did I dress to go from the plane to my airBNB and beyond? Funny you should ask. I did my best at dressing to travel in style, while also keeping in mind the fact that I had to dress for a rock concert later — a tricky balance. For versatile layering and crisp style,  I threw on a classic navy Oxford from Mott and Bow, a recent introduction to the brand’s line. The classic Oxford shirt meshed well with my new Abercrombie and Fitch denim, built with stretch for comfort and finished in a slightly faded shade of black. On the footwear front, my Florsheim Forward Lo Sneakers in a handsome shade of brown leather offset the combo nicely — I’ve found these sneakers work quite well for concerts and travel alike, as I also wore them trekking to see The Killers in New Jersey earlier this year. Of course, I had to take along other handy everyday carry essentials, including the always-essential Bespoke Post Vibes Box, featuring my LSTN Sound Co. Fillmore Headphones.

And for a full day of exploring Nashville — including a post-flight stop at the famed (and aptly named) Mas Tacos Por Favor — these sneakers proved similarly stylish. With striking yet subtly stylish design and durable construction, my Electric California Carroway Leather Watch worked for day-to-night style. Of course, I prepped for the show by plugging into my reliable Bespoke Post Vibes Box, featuring the eye-catching LSTN Sound Co. Fillmore Headphones. So, that was the gear I brought with me — and it helped me navigate Nashville stylishly and effectively. For what it’s worth, if you’ve got your own Nashville trip coming up, I can’t recommend the crisply designed, jam-packed Nashville Field Guide from Wildsam, full of interesting tidbits and useful information on hidden gems throughout the city.

Hanging out at the well-appointed imogene + willie on a lovely Nashville Friday. My Florsheim Forward Lo Lace-up Sneakers and Abercrombie & Fitch denim were perfect for getting around!

Nashville really is a city packed with something for everyone — it’s revered for its vibrant music scene, and it’s also full of craftsmen and women who put serious care into everything from excellent food to craft beer; my Wildsam Field Guide helped me figure that out in a hurry. With rugged dark denim, workwear-inspired basics and plenty of attention to detail throughout, imogene + willie is a terrific Nashville example of simple goods made very well — and the handsomely appointed storefront is a joy to explore in its own right.  And equally important — it’s close by to 12 South Taproom, a down-home bar with a great selection of tasty, refreshing beer. Speaking of craft beer: Hops and Crafts also stood out for its mix of industrial style and premium craft brews, plus gourmet bites. In short, it was a worthwhile pre-show stop!

Even with a full day exploring Nashville in the rearview mirror, I still had an amazing Friday night ahead. With its prime riverfront location and excellent sight lines, Ascend Amphitheater proved a stellar venue for a night of live music — it’s certainly not as revered as Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium, but it was still a treat to see three excellent bands throughout the night. Cold War Kids have long been a favorite, and I had the chance to see them debut their rollicking new album, “Love Is Mystical,” earlier this year in Brooklyn. It was absolutely a treat to see them play a longer show — recent classics like the joyous “Miracle Mile” mesh nicely with fresh hits like the album’s title track and of course, throwback cuts off 2006’s still-excellent “Robbers and Cowards.” They’re a band that’s worth seeing just for that album alone, and they certainly made their mark opening for Young the Giant (alongside Rochester, New York-based five-piece Joywave).

I had seen Young the Giant in New Haven earlier this year, and the band’s packed setlist proved alluring enough to see them again. Recent jams like “Silvertongue” and “Amerika” brought an energetic crowd to their feet just as easily as huge indie radio hits like “Cough Syrup” and “Apartment” — powerful tracks like  “Something to Believe In,” off last year’s “Home of the Strange” also helped set the tone early. This is a band with swagger, confidence and cool, eclectic style — in large part thanks to lead singer Sameer Gadhia’s voice and sharp fashion sense. Young the Giant has been on the road for a while in support of this albun, so they also sounded tight and crisp — a great band to watch in a big live setting, complete with a cold beer or two. That’s perhaps the best way to start a trip — at least, I think so. And the best part? My weekend trip gave me the chance to explore even more of the city Again, if you want to cover a ton of ground quickly and effectively, I’d urge you to pick up the Wildsam Nashville Field Guide.

The best gear for getting around Nashville in style — don’t you agree? The Wildsam Field Guide helped me see the city in style, too!

I always relish the chance to dress in casual weekend style — that’s where my Grayers Montreaux Windbreaker continues to come in handy.  From taking in live music at NYC’s Panorama 2017 to traveling to Chicago last month, this jacket can do it all — so it proved a crisp, classic layer atop my DSTLD Midnight Blue Denim Shirt, done up in a deep midnight blue and crafted from breathable cotton. Fall calls for a transition to more earthen, faded colors in terms of trousers, too. A new pair of tailored Original Penguin Bedford Cord 5-Pocket Pants offered go-anywhere style that helped me bounce from a crucial weekend kickstarter — coffee at the fantastic, industrially appointed CREMA — to a stop at rocker Jack White’s revered Third Man Records outpost. Of course, I kept on time through each stop with an old favorite, the durable Timex x Red Wing Waterbury Chrono — truly, the Timex Waterbury collection is perfect if you want a rugged watch fit for travel and exploration. If your next trip calls for lots of time spent on your feet, reach for versatile trousers in a fall-ready shade, then finish off your look with a pair of comfortable-yet-rugged boots, like Florsheim’s  125th Anniversary Wingtip Boots as seen above. 


My Saturday wasn’t done yet, though. Now that we’re into fall, I absolutely had to see my beloved Michigan State Spartans kick off another football Saturday — even away from my home base of Brooklyn, Nashville features quite a few loyal Spartan fans. Bar Louie in the Gulch offers everything you could want when it comes to taking in a game, from a fun crowd to delicious craft beer to monstrously good burgers like the Spiked Bulleit Bourbon Burger. Spartan fan or not, it’s tough to pass up a finely crafted beer and a good burger, right? That’s also where Pinewood Social came into play later on in the night. The cavernous location is a handsomely appointed cocktail bar/gourmet restaurant/work space/game center complete with a bowling alley and an outdoor pool — ideal for taking in the sights and sounds of Nashville after an MSU game. What more could you want on a Saturday night on the road? Not too much, folks.

Rugged picks for a Nashville Sunday, including new slim light wash denim from DSTLD, a rugged leather belt from Saddleback Leather and a handy dopp kit for travel, also from Saddleback Leather.

Sunday brought my Nashville trip to a close, but not before plenty of exploration in and around the city itself. Before leaving town, I absolutely knew I had to stop at a classic spot in the city — that’d be Bolton’s Spicy Chicken and Fish.  I turned my attention toward menswear next; that meant a stop at a favorite outpost, Billy Reid. With shops from Chicago to Charleston, Mr. Reid’s handsome, premium menswear embodies cool, versatile and breezy Southern style with a modern look and feel. As it were, that’s what I tried to do when it came to my Sunday travel style. Even casual outfits should start with classic footwear — my all-new CLAE Gregory Mid Sneakers featured a neat monochromatic color scheme and plenty of all-day comfort. They were an easygoing complement to my DSTLD Slim Light Wash Jeans — even though we’re getting into fall, there’s still plenty of time to break out your favorite slim light wash jeans, preferably alongside stylish sneakers and rugged accessories — my Saddleback Leather 4-Stitch Leather Belt was a key piece throughout the weekend and should break in quite nicely. Other essentials were in the mix, too — a stylish chambray shirt from JackThreads layered easily over a rugged short-sleeve henley from Abercrombie & Fitch. It was, unfortunately, time to head to the airport all too soon — I’m glad I dressed in comfort, though! When you’ve got a long flight ahead of you but still want to look great, reach for a classic pair of high-top leather sneakers — like the CLAE Gregory Mid seen above. 

If you’re heading to Nashville soon, well, I just can’t recommend the city enough. It’s packed with hidden gems, neat breweries, cool menswear, a terrific music scene and of course, something for every culinary taste. From live music to menswear to a dash of college football, this past weekend had it all — I’m thankful my Wildsam Nashville Field Guide helped me go off the beaten path a bit, too. It was a great trip to kick off what should be a great fall season — and as always, you can follow along with my travels here on the blog or on Instagram.  Let me know — are you hitting the road soon? Where are you headed?

Until the next trip — thanks for reading!

-Beau

by Beau H.

See Now, Buy Now: Step into Fall with These Rugged Leather Boots

Hudson Shoes

Striking leather boots, made with a natural patina and featuring durable construction.

When it comes to rugged fall style, you’re going to need some stylish leather boots — that’s just a stone-cold fact. And that’s where today’s See Now, Buy Now entry comes into play. Yes indeed, the Hudson Shoes Lennon Boots are an accessible, stylish and well-made pair of classic leather boots for the season ahead — possibly your new favorite leather boots? We’ll let you be the judge of that, though.  Perhaps you’re already familiar with Hudson Shoes; the brand’s Lewiston Chukka is a recent favorite of your Style Guide author in particular. Versatility in your footwear rotation is key this season, though — that’s what makes the Lennon Boots an essential pick-up as the leaves turn and the air turns crisp. Tough lace-up boots, richly crafted and featuring durable construction, work in plenty of seasonal style scenarios, from a football tailgate to a farmer’s market trip or an evening at your favorite brewpub. And with their well-worn patina and small design touches like premium waxed laces, the Hudson Shoes Lennon Boots feature that tough-to-find blend of rugged good looks and versatile style — that’s surely enough to put ’em contention on any list of the best leather boots, right? Right.

That’s at least why I think you should break out the Lennon Boots with everything from slim dark blue denim and a rugged henley to an indigo trucker jacket and faded black denim. Both of those combos will work for a rock concert, a casual weekend stroll or an upstate road trip — can’t beat that, right? Now, about the price: The Hudson Shoes Lennon Boots will set you back about $270 if you buy via Bespoke Post (which you certainly should!). That makes them a bit of an investment, but from the Portuguese-made construction to the stylish design and excellent quality, the Hudson Shoes Lennon Boots are going to become a fall and winter go-to. So, as we say here at The Style Guide … see now, buy now … ehh?

Will the Hudson Shoes Lennon Boots be joining your fall #menswear rotation? Let me know in the comments or on Twitter!

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Harry’s Essential Travel Shave Kit

Harry's Grooming

Everything you need for a great shave — at home or on the road, courtesy of Harry’s.

Ever been stuck on the road without the means of getting the perfect shave you might be used to back home? Well, the Harry’s Essential Travel Shave Kit solve that problem for you. Now, I like to take care of my beard using simpler methods, so I haven’t personally broken out the Travel Shave Kit quite yet — but I can assure you that if Harry’s is the brand behind it, it’s gotta be good.  Having something so essential to carry with you is going to prove mighty effective as you dress for fall travel — and the Travel Shave Kit  also gives you an excuse to change up your stubble or beard for a new season. It’s everything you need to get a great shave, packed into a stylish dopp kit. The brand aims to be different, offering quality designs and a quality shave at a lower cost — in fact, $2 lower per blade than the big guys. That adds up in the long run — and the excellent blades & clean design are just part of what makes the Essential Travel Shave Kit so, well, essential for guys who hit the road frequently. And even if you don’t need to pack up the Travel Shave Kit every week, you still get even more bang for your buck (something we certainly love here at The Style Guide). In this case, Huckberry members get a gift card for four additional blades from Harry’s, in addition to the four that ship with the Travel Shave Kit. Oh, and those blades work hand-in-hand (blade-in-blade?) with the brand’s Winston copper-handled razor — your everyday shave, this is not.  That includes the bells and whistles it comes with — and in. Make sense?

Harry's

The brand’s copper-handled razor makes for a smooth and stylish shave.

Crucially, the Travel Shave Kit really is a full kit, seeing as it’s housed in a custom-made, water-resistant Harry’s dopp kit. What’s more, you get the brand’s famous shaving cream and post-shave balm included — seriously, is there anything the Travel Shave Kit can’t provide for the guy on the go? Well, OK … it can’t pack your stylish weekender bag. But other than that, it should be incredibly useful. After a long day on the road, it’s nice to freshen up with a crisp shave (says the guy with a full beard). At any rate, it’s tough to find something as thoughtfully designed and executed as the Travel Shave Kit — and at an excellent price, too. We’re talking under $50 for Harry’s Essential Travel Shave Kit— that’s blades, shaving cream and all. And the even better part? You can certainly use the gear from the Harry’s Essential Travel Shave Kit when you’re not on the road. The brand’s razors are an incredible value and incredible quality, or so I’m told. At any rate, the next time you pack up in style, your saving grace in terms of grooming essentials could be the Harry’s Essential Travel Shave Kit. We’re in the midst of a new season, so step your game up accordingly.

Do you have any experience with the Harry’s Essential Travel Shave Kit? Will you be taking the Travel Shave Kit  with you on the road this season?

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: Fall Style Wish List, Young the Giant and J. Crew

Alright, folks — welcome back to the Friday Read and the capper on another week here at The Style Guide. From our Fall Style Wish List to a look at the best denim jacket to wear for the season — plus, a look at a stylish hooded sweatshirt for fall — it certainly was a busy, jam-packed week. And these busy #menswear times are set to continue this weekend, as it were; I’m on the road to Nashville to take in a full weekend in and around a great Southern city. You can expect a full recap coming Monday — from checking out spots like Pinewood Social to seeing what should be a great rock show by Young the Giant and Cold War Kids, I’m absolutely thrilled to take in the city. Any tips on things to do or places to go in Nashville? Feel free to hit me up on Twitter! And in the meantime, there’s more music on the way — my favorite band, indie rock heroes The National, dropped an incredible new record today in “Sleep Well Beast.” I won’t spoil it if you haven’t had the chance to listen, but it’s …. absolutely expectional. And with that, I have a rock show to prepare for! Stick around for the below reads today — have a great one, and cheers!

  • And last but not least, because we’re keeping this one brief today — have you seen the latest edition of The List by your Style Guide author? In short, it covers all the rugged gear to shop for fall — I guarantee you that you’ll enjoy it.

OK, folks — I’m signing off early today! Enjoy the weekend and we’ll talk to you soon.

-Beau

by Beau H.

See Now, Buy Now: Layer Up This Fall with the Outerknown Lowtide Hoodie

A stylish hooded sweatshirt? That’s what we’re talking today.

Is there such a thing as a stylish hooded sweatshirt? Absolutely — and the Outerknown Lowtide Hoodie might have just answered that question for you. Crucially, the Lowtide Hoodie is here just in time to combat early fall nights where it’s breezy but not cold enough for a heavy coat — you certainly need a layer like that when it comes to menswear essentials.  Just as with dressing for a bonfire or one last evening on the beach or at your lake — the best nights, by the way — seasonally appropriate style is still called for. And that means the Outerknown Lowtide Hoodie is a prime addition to our ongoing See Now, Buy Now series. What’s the biggest step in picking a stylish hooded sweatshirt? Well, Style Guide reader … there are two, actually. It starts, first and foremost, with picking the right fabric — the Lowtide Hoodie features a textured terry toweling cloth exterior and a brushed fleece interior. That means the Outerknown Lowtide Hoodie feels great to wear over  a classic men’s T-shirt while providing breathability and protection from a slight evening chill at the same time. The Lowtide Hoodie is a perfectly casual piece, featuring raglan sleeves for a flattering fit and mobility. The Olive colorway of this Outerknown hoodie also makes it easygoing and laidback, easy to style with slim light wash jeans or your favorite chino shorts.  It gets better, though.

Outerknown makes all of its gear — including the Lowtide Hoodie, of course — with that critical blend of sustainability and style in mind. And there’s a reason this tee is perfect for the last few outdoor evenings of the season — Outerknown is designed in part by legendary surfer Kelly Slater, a guy who knows a thing or two about the great outdoors. That also means the Lowtide Hoodie looks at ease atop a rugged henley around a bonfire — and it looks just as simply stylish when you wear it under a black denim jacket for watching Saturday kickoff with your buddies. See, a versatile, stylish hooded sweatshirt can be found — and the Lowtide Hoodie might be the best place to start.

That’s it for this week’s See Now, Buy Now entry — stay stylish!

-Beau