Author / Beau H.

by Beau H.

A Southern Christmas: Fun in the Fort Myers Sun

Revisiting a Christmas classic & dressed in casual gear from Mack Weldon, Banana Republic & SeaVees.


There’s a certain stretch of year that’s probably my favorite, and no …. it’s not the Governors Ball music festival here in NYC. That favorite time of year would happen to be the holiday season, especially now that I’m further away from my family. I recently traveled to Fort Myers for Thanksgiving, and this past weekend brought me back to down South for a Florida Christmas–that’s on top of a recent early December weekend trip to Orlando and Tampa for the 97X Next Big Thing music festival! Yes indeed, I’ve spent plenty of time down south these last few weeks. In between my recent Florida trips, I went the complete opposite direction, traveling north to Toronto. Rest assured, the Florida sun is certainly much more welcoming. And from trip to trip, I’ve tried my best to bring along my favorite #menswear. Did you dress in holiday travel style this year? As always, I’d love to hear about your own travels over on Twitter. But for now, let’s soak up the sun and head south!

Holiday 2017

Enjoying fun in the Florida sun with my Timex x Todd Snyder Mod Watch & aviators from James Dean Eyewear!

Unlike past trips to Florida, where I’ve had to head right from the office to the plane, this trip gave me the luxury of heading from my apartment onto the plane. So, I packed up my Voyager Waxed Weekender from Boarding Pass NYC (formerly Owen & Fred), and I hit the road! I dressed for comfort and style, throwing on an all-new, super-comfortable Mott and Bow T-shirt, topped off with an easy-to-layer Mott and Bow denim shirt, two stylish pieces that provided comfort and just a bit of casual polish. For even more laidback comfort and mobility, my Proof Nomad Pants, with the construction of a chino and the mobility of a pair of sporty sweatpants, were just the ticket. They teamed more than readily with a pair of classic chukka boots from Astorflex, as perfect a pair of travel footwear as it gets. And to add a bit of visual interest and sharp style, my Timex x Todd Snyder Mod Watch proved effective and reliable. The great part about layering a bit? When I got to Florida, I simply ditched my Mott and Bow denim shirt and wore my Mott and Bow tee! How about that? Point being: The next time you want to head from a chillier locale to a warm one, dress with casual, cool layers in mind — add some mobile chinos, classic chukka boots and a stylish, casual watch.

Holiday 2017

Enjoying the day with my United By Blue Wenlock Chambray Short, Timex x Todd Snyder Blackjack Watch and my trusty Huckberry Explorer’s Cap … plus a great brew!

It’s always nice to get home, get settled and enjoy the beautiful Florida weather — Friday had plenty of that, and it was the perfect segway into a long weekend that proved filled with holiday cheer and relaxation. On Saturday, that meant we enjoyed a relaxing Florida day and an afternoon beach trip, no early wake-up needed! For venturing into Fort Myers, I stepped out in exploration-ready but casual style, starting with my United By Blue Wenlock Chambray Shirt and my Mack Weldon Board Shorts, essential for soaking up some Florida rays. A pair of Reef men’s sneakers proved durable and more than able to take me around town, while my sporty Timex x Todd Snyder Blackjack Watch felt speedy and retro. On the accessories front, keeping my eyes safe from the sun — but doing so in style — was top of mind. My James Dean Eyewear Aviators were my pick, equally classic and modern … plus, well-suited for grabbing a post-beach brew. Days on the water are hard to come by in NYC, as one might imagine, so I relished the chance to get some Florida sun.

Sunday brought with it … well, Christmas Eve, for starters! It’s a Hayhoe family tradition to head to the movies as a family, and after a relaxing morning, that’s just what we did — “The Greatest Showman” was a fun, enjoyable ride . I don’t know if the excitement of Christmas with family will ever quite get old, so I appreciate the chance to keep old traditions going — and of course, I never pass up the chance to dress in style! As seen at the top of the page,  I threw on a casual Banana Republic graphic tee (Cheers!) and paired it up with the Mack Weldon Active Shorts, a frequent favorite when I travel to Florida given the blend of comfort and stretch. A crisp, well-made Timex x Form-Function-Form watch helped me get around in style, featuring rugged good looks and easy wearability — seriously, Timex x Form-Function-Form watches are not to be missed. For striking style and protection from the sun, my James Dean JDS105 sunglasses were the way to go, and classic SeaVees sneakers (in this case, a bright blue take on the SeaVees Hermosa Regatta) proved effective and comfortable on the accessories front. Again, it never gets old when I get the chance to savor family traditions, and that goes for our post-Christmas Eve dinner of shrimp and salad, followed by Christmas Eve presents (pajamas for everyone!) and a traditional reading of “The Night Before Christmas.” After that, off to bed!

Unwrapping some incredible gifts, including a new Todd Snyder shirt, a classic Orvis leather belt and a Newgate clock (via Bespoke Post). Hope you enjoyed your day with loved ones in your life!


Christmas in the Hayhoe household is another tradition I always enjoy — how can you not?? It’s very special to spend the day with family, curled up with great coffee and most likely, a choice Christmas read. We also always enjoy homemade cinnamon rolls and egg casserole. And it’s an important reminder to slow down and take it all in, especially as we close out a busy year. 

I was truly fortunate to receive some amazing gifts, from a Ticketmaster gift card (more live tunes!) to a lovely Todd Snyder dress shirt (seen above!), the terrific book “Manhattan Beach” (by Jennifer Egan) and a classic Orvis belt from my grandparents. Those gifts will absolutely come in handy all year long, and I was so thankful to spend the day relaxing with family in the Florida sun! The trip wasn’t done yet, though. 
Luckily, I had a full day in Florida to take in a last few rays of sunshine in style. I dressed in easygoing, travel-ready gear for the occasion, from my Abercrombie & Fitch Langdon Denim to a Mott and Bow denim shirt. I also layered up for the flight home with a classic Bridge & Burn T-shirt — these new tees are soft, well-tailored and well-made. In short, you can wear these easygoing men’s T-shirts all day without worrying about whether they’ll stretch out. One place you do want a little stretch for both comfort and style? Your jeans. That’s why I reached for my Abercombie & Fitch denim. The A&F denim features a light weight, a pleasingly faded wash and a slim fit — ideal to pair with my classic suede chukka boots from Astorflex. I teamed the combination with my Timex Form-Function-Form Horween Leather Chronograph, a visually interesting watch with a rugged leather strap. I also threw on my reliable-as-ever Huckberry Explorer’s Cap, and finished the look off with stylish sunglasses from James Dean Eyewear.

The next time you’ve got a few hours before your flight, be sure to wear casual style essentials — like a classic denim shirt and stylish suede chukkas that are ready for both travel and adventure in equal measure. As I always say, my trip came to an end much too soon — I always cherish being able to get away from NYC and enjoy time with family, especially during the holiday season. I feel recharged and energized to take on the rest of 2017 and the start of 2018, and I hope you  do, too! More importantly, we’ll have plenty of style content coming at you to get you ready for New Year’s Eve, including a helpful #OOTD that covers, well … what to wear on New Year’s Eve! Look for it tomorrow.

In the meantime, Merry (belated) Christmas and thanks for reading!

-Beau

Holiday 2017

by Beau H.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays from The Style Guide!

My dear friends and Style Guide readers … you know what today is, yes? Christmas! In the spirit of the season, we’re taking just a bit of a break today on the blog — and I hope you’re finding the time to kick back and relax, ideally surrounded by family, friends, your holiday style wish list and a great Christmas craft beer. If you’re out on the road, I hope you dressed in holiday travel style. If not? I hope you’re still enjoying yourself, wherever you might be. I’m taking in the day with my family in lovely Fort Myers (where I also spent Thanksgiving in style). It’s been a relaxing and rejuvenating trip, and you can expect a full holidayl travel style post tomorrow (plus the requisite updates via my Instagram). After that, we’ll get back to our #OOTD series to help you close out the year in style.

Starting The Style Guide from my college house a little over four years ago has been a labor of love, and quite the tough thing to keep going at times, what with my day job in fashion PR here in the city. It’s something I genuinely enjoying sitting down to work on, and I hope you find it useful, engaging and maybe even … fun? If ever you’ve taken the time to read a post on this site, offer up a comment, check out what I have to say on Twitter or via The Style Guide Facebook page … I thank you for your support! It’s all the more worthwhile to think that maybe, just maybe, you decide to spend a bit of your time on this site every now and then. For that, I’m very grateful this Christmas! Don’t forget to keep dropping by in the months ahead — there’s plenty in the works, from the continuation of our men’s gear series The List to plenty of seasonal style suggestions, a New Year’s men’s style resolution and our Style Pick of the Week entries. With that being said, I’m going to kick back, relax and enjoy the rest of the day.

From The Style Guide to you — Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays and as always … thanks for reading!

-Beau

Holiday 2017

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Oak Street Bootmakers Dainite Sole Trench Boots

A durable pair of handsome brown leather boots made with Horween leather — not a bad pair to buy this winter.

Alright, folks — it’s another Style Pick of the Week, and we’re talking yet again about another stylish pair of rugged boots. Last week, it was the Rancourt & Co. Shearling-Lined Dresden Boots. And this week? It’s the Oak Street Bootmakers Dainite Sole Trench Boots, a heck of a pair of tough leather boots that just so happen to be exclusive to our pals at Huckberry.  And if you (or someone you love) still need a pair of winter boots? These might just be the ones to buy.  Based in Chicago, Oak Street Bootmakers provide standout quality and a classic approach to design and construction, helped along by beautiful Horween leather and the true Goodywear welt build on the Dainite Sole Trench Boots. The brand’s Elston last is surprisingly low-profile for a pair of leather boots, meaning you can more than easily wear these cuffed blue denim and  a classic shawl collar cardigan for style that’s at once sleek and slightly rugged. And the small details work out well for these stylish leather boots, too — the vamp has a calfskin lining for extra comfort and quality. So, if the specs are that good… that must mean the Oak Street Bootmakers Dainite Sole Trench Boots have plenty of styling potential, right? Right.

The studded Dainite sole adds some extreme traction and toughness.

For one, the silhouette means you can easily wear the Dainite Sole Trench Boots with outfits that reflect a little bit more tailored winter style. So, a navy herringbone blazer and charcoal plaid trousers work quite nicely with these boots. Yet, the Dainite Sole Trench Boots can still team up quite nicely with your more rugged winter essentials, including a casual grey crewneck sweater and broken-in blue denim. Add a tough waxed trucker jacket and call it a day. OK, well … don’t call it a day quite yet — get out there and get to work! At any rate, the Oak Street Bootmakers Dainite Sole Trench Boots are going to prove dependable time and again this winter season (and through the spring, too). They’ll only get better with age; Horween leather is built to break in quite nicely. Now, you’ll have to pay for your investment — the Dainite Sole Trench Boots will set you back more than $400. But, as your Style Guide author always says … that extra bit of coin is definitely worth it. Do you agree?

Are you going to be picking up the Dainite Sole Trench Boots for the winter weather that’s bearing down on us? 

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: The Best Winter Sweaters, Holiday Travel Style and Last-Minute Christmas Gifts

Folks, can you believe we’re just three days away from Christmas? Just one weekend? I hope you’re wrapping up your work for the week, or the year, and getting ready to hit the road for some holiday fun. Be sure to check out my men’s holiday gift guide for any very last-minute gift-giving needs, and rest assured that our women’s holiday gift guide has you covered with picks for plenty of the women in your life. As for me, I’m doing my best to wrap up my work — #menswear-related and otherwise — as I hit the road today to lovely, sunny Florida for a few days with my family! I celebrated Christmas in Florida last year, and I can’t wait for this year’s festivities — it’s a welcome change of pace from the NYC cold. We’ll have our traditional Christmas Eve  movie and dinner, and I’m certainly looking forward to catching some rays and kicking back with a Corona. If you’re so inclined, you can check out my adventures on Instagram — and you can of course expect a full travel style post here on the site come next week. Oh, and lastly … be sure to dress in casual-yet-comfortable holiday travel style yourself this year, yeah? Before we log off totally, know that we’ll have an exceptional Style Pick of the Week incoming tomorrow. For now, treat yourself to The Friday Read — enjoy the weekend, happy holidays and Merry Christmas!
Holiday 2017

  • It’s high time we started bundling up against the cold winter weather, and on that note, my latest roundup for The Manual focuses on the best sweaters to buy this season. Can’t go wrong there, can you?
  • Looking for a cool stocking stuffer that’s a neat gift for the woman who loves the outdoors (or just appreciates a cool hat)? The Six-Panel Structured Canvas Indigo Hat from Raleigh Denim is part of the brand’s new line of unisex accessories, featuring neat craftsmanship and quality. Is it on your shopping list?
  • In search of a quick grooming upgrade before the holidays? Might I point you toward EVENPRIME? This simple, minimal men’s grooming line takes a uniquely Korean approach to skincare, focused on quality ingredients, clean packaging and helpful, easy-to-use products. The brand’s Core Set is pared down to two, well, core essentials, a cleanser and a moisturizer that I think you’re going to like. I’ve been trying out the brand and enjoying it immensely for the refreshing hydration of the Moisturizer in particular — I think you’ll feel the same way!

Once again, I hope you enjoy the holidays with family and friends! Thanks for reading!

-Beau

Holiday 2017

by Beau H.

See Now, Buy Now: Get the Color of the Season with the Raleigh Denim Alexander Stretch Jeans

A twist on traditional winter denim, featuring comfortable fabric and a seasonally friendly color.

We’ve all been there: The time comes around in the morning to pick out a reliable work week outfit, maybe something with a bit of tailored winter style … and you tend to reach for the same dependable pair of dark blue cords, denim or chinos. Not that that’s a bad thing! But every now and again — especially as we approach the doldrums of winter — a guy’s gotta switch up. And that’s where the Raleigh Denim Alexander Stretch Jeans  are going to be your saving grace. Whether you add the stylish Alexander Stretch Jeans to your own holiday style wish list (Christmas is VERY soon!), or whether you pick them up for the menswear fan in your life, everyone’s going to be more than happy to unwrap and wear the Alexander Stretch Jeans from Raleigh Denim. Why is that, Beau? It’s that crucial combination of style and comfort, plus a rich Walnut color that’s decidedly different from the varying hues of dark blue and charcoal a lot of us wear — and that’s a great thing.

The  Raleigh Denim Alexander Stretch Jeans  might feature a fabric blend that’s more lightweight than what you’d typically wear in winter, but that just gives you more freedom to layer up on your top half, from a stylish shawl collar cardigan to a classic indigo overshirt. They’re also washed for a broken-in feel, just what you need to feel comfortable and cozy curled up around the fire, heading to a Christmas Eve party — buy ’em now! — or hopping on a crosscountry flight (in style, naturally). The Alexander Stretch Jeans are a unique take on a traditional winter trouser, and that’s why your Style Guide author digs ’em so much. The  Raleigh Denim Alexander Stretch Jeans  are tapered slightly, but a bit roomier than they are skintight — that’s good when you want to channel polished, but relaxed, holiday style this season. And when the new year hits? You should certainly feel free to wear the  Raleigh Denim Alexander Stretch Jeans   with your favorite denim shirt and perhaps a classic field jacket for versatile style on the go. What do you say? Who’s ready for Christmas now? You are, my friend.

Are you a fan of the  Raleigh Denim Alexander Stretch Jeans   for gift giving or … wearing? Let me know in the comments! 

by Beau H.

Online Shopping Picks: Stay Warm This Season with the Best Men’s Winter Accessories

Our focus today on The Style Guide is all about getting you prepped for winter in style — that means it’s time to tackle the best men’s winter accessories that your hard-earned money can buy. Our recent Online Shopping Picks entries have covered everything from stylish socks for the season to classic denim shirts for all your layering needs, but there’s something missing. Isn’t there? After all, what goes better with rugged leather boots than essential winter accessories? That means we’re covering everything from a standout winter jacket (via United By Blue) to a stylish Taylor Stitch scarf and a rugged pair of leather boots— and we’re just getting started. If it’s bewildering and crazy to know that we’re moving into winter after it seems like fall blew by, then you’re not alone. And with these picks for the best winter accessories, you’re going to stay warm as you fight the chill — we’re in this together, folks. Let me know what you think of my selections over on Twitter, and follow along to get some winter #menswear tips on my Instagram account.

The Jacket: United By Blue Ultimate American Jacket — $598

Don’t let the simple looks of the American Jacket fool you — it’s tough and ready for winter weather.

When you think winter accessories, do you tend to think more about the smaller items, things like stylish wool socks or a dependable winter scarf? That’s all well and good, but what about when you need to break out the true heavy hitters — a must-have winter coat has gotta be near the top of your list, right? I humbly offer up the United By Blue American Jacket, a beastly, functional and surprisingly stylish men’s winter coat made with a waterproof shell and filled with warm (and sustainable!) bison fiber fill. Less bulky than a parka and more stylish, the American Jacket is a worthy investment.

The Boots: Rancourt & Co. Shearling-Lined Dresden Boots — $365

From head to toe, you need your bases covered — Rancourt & Co. has your boots on lock.

Again, let’s think about the big picture — and thus, the big-ticket items you need in your closet (and on your feet) this winter season. While there are plenty of pairs of stylish leather boots to choose from out there, few combine everything into one handsome package quite like the Rancourt & Co. Shearling-Lined Dresden Boots. Featuring handsewn construction and Horween leather, the Dresden Boots are also, as one would expect, lined in cozy shearling. Complete with a rugged (and treaded) rubber sole, the Rancourt & Co. Dresden Boots could be the most essential footwear purchase you make this season.

The Scarf: Taylor Stitch Scarf in Oatmeal Alpaca — $98
Taylor Stitch

The right finishing touch for any winter outfit has to be a stylish Taylor Stitch scarf — agreed?

OK, with your new favorite winter boots and a stylish winter jacket out of the way, let’s move onto something smaller, but no less critical — an everyday winter scarf. It’s helpful that this particular winter scarf comes from Taylor Stitch, a personal favorite brand that’s proven that it can do just about anything. Featuring a blend of alpaca and wool fibers, the Taylor Stitch Scarf is all-natural, with a versatile color that actually comes from undyed alpaca fibers. The Taylor Stitch Scarf would add just enough visual interest with a charcoal overcoat, slim blue denim and … dare I say … the Rancourt & Co. Dresden Boots?
The Gloves: Hestra Deerskin PrimaLoft Gloves — $125

Don’t consider your gloves an afterthought in terms of your wardrobe — invest in this pair from Hestra.

Lest we forget, durable winter gloves are an absolute must, whether you’re layering up with a rugged field jacket or a slim topcoat. And since we’re accepting nothing less than the best, I’d say you ‘ve got to pick up the Hestra Deerskin PrimaLoft Gloves, featuring just the right combo of sleek style and functionality. PrimaLoft insulation will keep your digits nice and toasty, while elastic cuffs make these easy to slip on and off. These stylish winter gloves are certainly an investment in terms of price, but it’ll be one that pays off … according to me, at least.
The Beanie: Taylor Stitch Beanie in Navy Alpaca — $48

Don’t leave home without this Taylor Stitch beanie on your head — trust me.

OK, so your hands are nice and toasty, you’ve layered up with the ridiculously dependable United By Blue American Jacket, and you’re now looking to keep your ears warm. Allow me to introduce you to the Taylor Stitch Beanie in Navy Alpaca, a well-made winter hat from a brand that absolutely deserves some space in your closet. This Taylor Stitch beanie uses a Fisherman’s Rib Stitch for extra durability and thickness, something that’s essential when dressing for the polar vortex that’s coming.

The Socks: Wigwam Cypress Socks in Red — $13

Socks aren’t all that important, right? Wrong. This cotton-nylon pair is dependable, breathable and ready for winter.

When are socks more than just, y’know, socks? When the socks in question happen to be the Wigwam Cypress Socks, and when those socks happen to be keeping your feet warm this winter. Reliable winter socks can be a tricky proposition in terms of matter of style, but these cotton-nylon socks should be comfortable and breathable to wear. The Wigwam Cypress Socks are the sort of pair that are stylish enough to wear with classic dress shoes, yet dependable enough to wear with rugged winter boots while keeping your feet from overheating.

Holiday 2017

I don’t know about you, but I already feel warm and toasty just looking at some of these picks. When you layer up with the United By Blue American Jacket and complement that with plenty of other dependable winter accessories, you’ll have no trouble staying cozy in the snow. The trick comes in picking products that blend fashion and function, like the Rancourt & Co. Shearling-Lined Dresden Boots, featuring durable Horween leather. The same is true of smaller accesories, like the Taylor Stitch Beanie in Navy Alpaca and the complementary Taylor Stitch Scarf. And right on down to your socks, we’ve got you all set — the Wigwam Cypress Socks should be a go-to pair on many a cold night. I’m also a big fan of the Hestra Deerskin PrimaLoft Gloves, a reliable, sleek pair of winter gloves for outfits both tailored and casual. These picks should be enough to get your winter wardrobe started — you can expect plenty more #menswear tips for the cold weather in the weeks and months ahead.
As always, thanks for reading!
-Beau

Holiday 2017

by Beau H.

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

There’s no time to waste this holiday season, which is why we’re talking today about how to dress for a casual Christmas. It’s coming up sooner than you think — VERY soon, in fact. If you still need a gift for your brother, dad, uncle, father-in-law — heck, any guy — check out this year’s men’s holiday gift guide. Oh, and before we get to today’s #OOTD, you’re going to need a gift for her: Check out this year’s women’s holiday gift guide right now (hurry!). Still need to dress for a holiday party? Check out this recent #OOTD. Now, to the main event.

Dressing for a casual Christmas should, first and foremost, be laidback and fun. After all, you’re likely spending the day around a warm fire, surrounded by good company and a few items off your men’s style wish list. Even if you find yourself away from your home (say, visiting your significant other’s parents), the below #menswear look is appropriately cool and easygoing — not sloppy. Trust me, getting you dressed in style for Christmas is a Style Guide tradition that goes all the way back to … this blog’s first year, 2013! Check out the OG post here. Now, as today’s look: It delivers the goods. From a standout denim jacket to fight off a brisk day to a casual T-shirt, stylish Taylor Stitch sweatpants and comfortable American Trench socks, every base is covered. Except for the gifts under the tree — that’s still on you. Happy shopping and enjoy these next few days in style!

The right mix of easygoing layers and casual style staples — Merry Christmas!

The Jacket: WP Standard Denim Jacket, $119 –This stellar denim jacket can be layered over a sweater or a tee with ease, and it lends a bit of rugged polish to this ensemble. Plus, it looks great to wear to a Christmas Day movie or a decidedly laidback brunch.

The Tee: Mott and Bow Heather Gray Crewneck, $32 — The makers of your favorite pair of jeans have now set their sights on the perfect T-shirt; the results are cozy, comfortable and more than ready for Christmas Day style.

The Pants: Taylor Stitch Travel Pants in Black Fleece, $88 — Suffice to say, we don’t recommend sweatpants too often here on the blog, but the Taylor Stitch Travel Pants are that rare pair of stylish sweatpants that manage to look more cleaned-up than sloppy. Go ahead, have another cup of cocoa & kick back by the fire.

The Sneakers: Gola Classics Harrier Woven Trainer, $90 — Now, if you happen to be dealing with a white Christmas, these classic and sporty sneakers might have to stay in the closet. But if not? These woven textile sneakers slip on and off with ease for holiday travel and holiday party-hopping.

The Socks: American Trench Kennedy Luxury Athletic Socks, $19.50  — Want stylish socks that combine a bit of retro, sporty style with comfortable fabric? That’s what the Kennedy Luxury Athletic Socks from American Trench can do for you. No socks with holes while padding around the house this season!

 The Briefs: Flint and Tinder Micro-Bamboo Boxer Briefs, $34 — The right underwear — like the Flint and Tinder Micro-Bamboo Boxer Briefs — can go a long way in keeping you comfortable while relaxing over the holidays.

The Watch: Form-Function-Form Horween Leather Chronograph, $118.98 (On Sale) — From the classic navy dial to the handcrafted leather strap, this Form-Function-Form leather chronograph (featuring Timex) is a winner when it comes to casual holiday style.

The Cap: Filson Watch Cap, $45 — Keeping warm and toasty is crucial if you’re dealing with cold weather this Christmas — the Filson Watch Cap accomplishes that in style.
Holiday 2017
And with that, I’ll leave you to all of your last-minute holiday shopping. Was this #OOTD helpful? Staying casual and comfortable, yet stylish, comes down to picking the right pieces and the right fabrics. Rather than reaching for slouchy, old sweatpants, throw on the  Taylor Stitch Travel Pants  for a pair of stylish sweats featuring significantly upgraded fabric and a tailored fit. When it comes to your T-shirt, swap in a tailored heather gray tee from Mott and Bow (or a classic chambray shirt, if you want to go just a bit more dressed up). Your footwear should be similarly versatile yet laidback, so textured sneakers from Gola nod toward the season in an easygoing manner — don’t forget sporty, stylish American Trench socks. Take it from me: They could be the last sock brand you buy. Winter accessories also can (and should) blend fashion and function — the  Filson Watch Cap is a great example of that approach. And to round out this casual look, a classic Timex watch offers both visual interest and situationally appropriate style. Before we go, don’t skimp when it comes to your undergarments; the Flint and Tinder Micro-Bamboo Boxer Briefs should be in your shopping cart now. If you’ve got any questions on how to dress for the holidays, be sure to hit me up on Twitter.

Thanks so much for reading, happy holidays and Merry Christmas!

-Beau

Holiday 2017

by Beau H.

Getting Out of Town: A Winter Weekend Trip Upstate

Dressed in rugged, adventure-ready style — featuring my Flint and Tinder Waxed Trucker Jacket, Taylor Stitch Chore Pants and a Taylor Stitch flannel shirt, plus my WP Standard Natural Leather Belt and my trusty Timex x Red Wing Waterbury Chrono.

As I checked my calendar recently, I realized with a shock that, well, it was, well, nearly Christmas! Fall and winter have been flying by here in NYC, filled with #menswear and plenty of fun Style Guide content — and road trips galore! From a fall trip to Portland to a weekend in Nashville to a quick trip to Boston, I’ve been fortunate to be able to get out of town and hit the road. But there was one area I hadn’t yet been able to squeeze in a quick trip this season — upstate New York! I visited the lovely town of Hudson last November on a perfectly crisp fall weekend, and my travels also took me up to the quaint town of Beacon in February 2016 — but this past weekend was a great chance to once again break out my favorite style essentials and head to the famed Dia: Beacon art museum (among other pursuits). Come along for the ride with me! Oh, and if you follow me on Instagram and already caught details of this trip … stick around, won’t you?

The winter fun began in earnest on Friday, with a #menswear ensemble made for essential, casual style for a day at the office. In this case, that meant throwing on a new Fruit of The Loom EverSoft Long-Sleeve Crew T-Shirt in a seasonally-friendly shade of red. It layered up nicely with an easygoing Original Penguin shawl collar cardigan for a bit of casual polish, while my Taylor Stitch Slim Chinos in British Khaki proved well-fitting and easygoing-yet-stylish. Again, Taylor Stitch is just a brand that checks plenty of boxes in terms of rugged, casual style — and it wouldn’t be the last time I brought out Taylor Stitch menswear this weekend, either. When matched up with stylish leather sneakers — the CLAE Bradley Mid, specifically — the combo proved comfortable for the office and suitable for grabbing a pint at Brooklyn’s Sycamore after work. I also threw on my reliable Huckberry Explorer’s Cap, and I reached for the V76 by Vaughn Daily Balance Facial Moisturizer to keep my skin in prime shape. Make no mistake, men’s grooming essentials are critical during the winter season, especially when dealing with breezy, chilly weather. Luckily, my daily grooming routine helped me finish the week strong — and with a nice day at work in the books, I was looking forward to the weekend ahead.

Layered up to explore Beacon and kick back with a coffee at Bank Square Coffeehouse. My accessories included a Banana Republic plaid scarf and a Club Monaco knit cap, plus my trusty Timex x Red Wing Waterbury Chrono. My Hood Rubber Co. Wayland Boots were perfect for stomping through the snow, too!

What did the weekend have in store? It kicked off nice and early Saturday morning with a few crucial cups of coffee, followed by a lovely train ride upstate to Beacon! As I said, I had visited the town on a February weekend last year, and came away with nothing but fond memories of the tranquil, enjoyable atmosphere and beautiful upstate views. Stop number one, of course, had to be  a cup of coffee (well, the mocha latte) at the charming Bank Square Coffeehouse. That got me ready to explore Dia: Beacon, the world-class art museum featuring work from the likes of Dan Flavin, Donald Judd and plenty more. Based in a former Nabisco factory, this well-lit, beautifully designed museum is packed with large-scale activations, smaller exhibits and some seriously contemplative works of art. If ever you’re looking to get away from NYC — or perhaps add a day trip when you swing through the Big Apple — I can’t recommend this lovely museum enough. Of course, I knew I had to dress in rugged winter style essentials to navigate the town and the museum accordingly.

I started things off the right way by reaching for the extremely well-made, durably crafted Flint and Tinder Flannel-Lined Waxed Trucker Jacket, a classic men’s trucker jacket made with great attention to detail and a tailored fit. For durable, effective style on my bottom half, I threw on a  pair of Taylor Stitch Chore Pants, crafted from cotton canvas and featuring double-knee reinforced construction. They worked more than handsomely alongside my adventure-ready Wayland Boots from Hood Rubber Company.  Featuring a handsome blend of rubberized and full-grain leather, the Wayland Boots provided a mix of casual and functional style, what with waxed cotton laces and a fit that echoes the look of your favorite chukka boots. A rugged Timex watch was my go-to casual watch pick for the day — I can’t emphasize enough how reliable the Timex x Red Wing Waterbury Chrono happens to be. Of course, stylish men’s socks from Anonymousism were also a reliable accessory.  On the everyday carry front, my essentials were close at hand, thanks to the WP Standard Large Messenger Bag. I’m telling you, that bag about as good as it gets when it comes to an everyday bag.  And my LSTN Sound Co. Headphones from the Bespoke Post Vibes Box also came along on this quick trip, allowing me to plug into my favorite tunes.

And the even better news? Beacon really did prove a fun, lovely town for a quick visit. I made time to grab some excellent pints at the renowned Draught Industries, a rustic, rugged gastropub with a killer craft beer selection, including picks from Hill Farmstead and Midwest favorite Founders Brewing. The great thing about Beacon is its quaint, quiet atmosphere — more than agreeable for enjoying the day and strolling around town. My quick trip to Beacon gave me just enough opportunity to get out of the city, clear my head and enjoy the fresh air with my favorite winter style essentials in tow. I even made some time to take in a few more of the sights and sounds of this lovely town with an overnight AirBNB stay. My centrally located apartment near Main Street was the perfect base to explore. The stops? The Vault was a must-visit for an excellent burger and delicious corn-and-parmesan fritters. I also enjoyed a nightcap at The Roundhouse, a beautiful, rustic-yet-modern hotel and restaurant that’s drawn acclaim around Beacon and beyond. Perfect for an Old-Fashioned, right?

A classically rugged, warm winter get-up, perfect for exploring Beacon in style. My Flint and Tinder Moleskin Shirt Jacket proved essential and quite warm!

To close out the weekend, Sunday called for even more Beacon exploration, starting with a pair of amazing donuts at Glazed Over, topped with chocolate chips, caramel glaze and vanilla drizzle — yes, please! I explore more on foot checking out the restored Roundhouse Hotel — it was even prettier in the day than at night. The afternoon took me down to the Towne Crier Cafe, a renowned regional hangout featuring live music and a mix of American and Middle Eastern staples — it was a cozy spot for a pleasant afternoon. I packed up my Saddleback Leather Rounded Leather Duffel, and I layered up with the well-made Flint and Tinder Moleskin Shirt Jacket in a pleasing shade of green. It proved perfect for throwing on over my Abercrombie and Fitch Cotton Herringbone Shirt, a nicely textured shirt with plenty of classic styling potential. And for venturing around Beacon and stopping at Bank Square Coffeehouse again, another Flint and Tinder essential served me well. Yes indeed, the Flint and Tinder All-American Jeans, made with stretch selvage and an inky blue indigo finish, were comfortable for travel and exploration. To get around with durability and rugged style in mind, my CAT Footwear Chronicle Boots had me well-equipped for the occasion, too. And my classic-as-always Timex x Red Wing Waterbury Watch kept me on time and in style.

It was a pleasure to be able to get out of the city, especially around the holiday season. It’s worth remembering that getting out and exploring is as easy as picking a place and picking a date, then going after it. I’m going to do my to keep that in mind for me amidst the hustle and bustle of NYC, and if the urge should strike you to travel upstate, I can’t recommend Beacon enough! I’m also glad I was able to take on the weekend with my favorite winter menswear along for the ride.

Oh, and if ever you find yourself in Brooklyn or in Beacon and want tips on what to do, give me a shout!

Thanks for reading!

-Beau

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Rancourt & Co. Shearling-Lined Dresden Boots

Beastly boots for all of your winter adventures, folks.

There are average boots, and THEN, there are the Rancourt & Co. Shearling-Lined Dresden Boots. I’ll tell ya what, folks … Rancourt & Co. certainly knows how to get the job done, and they’ve knocked it out of the park with the Dresden Boots. They’re an absolute beast of a pair, and they just so happen to be today’s Style Pick of the Week for good reason. In fact, you might recognize ’em already — they were featured ever so recently in our roundup of the best men’s winter boots, and they’re back today … with a stylish, winter-ready vengeance. The specs and style potential of the Rancourt & Co. Dresden Boots are simply top-notch, which is absolutely what you’d expect from a brand that makes its gear with the utmost care in Maine.

In fact, the brand still largely follows the same methods they have for years, and the resulting Dresden Boots have plenty going for ’em, from the beautiful Horween leather to the rugged moc toe construction and a natural leather midsole for comfort and a touch of craftsmanship. They’re the kind of classic winter boots that evoke throwback style, with just the right amount of rugged polish.

A warm shearling lining separates these boots from the pack.

Heck, we haven’t even mentioned the shearling lining in the Rancourt & Co. Dresden Boots — that’s what really puts this pair of rugged leather boots over the top. They also feature a padded collar for perfect comfort throughout; when you need to bundle up in a snowstorm, step into these boots. The Rancourt & Co. Dresden Boots hit the nail on the head when it comes to casual weekend style, too. These are the type of boots to wear with faded denim, a classic gray crewneck sweatshirt and a stylish casual watch to grab a weekend coffee or explore your city. They’ll also pair reasonably well with business casual looks (think dark slim jeans, a navy herringbone blazer and a classic chambray shirt). And if you want to go a bit more preppy? Then style the Rancourt & Co. Dresden Boots with your new favorite vest. See? The possibilities are endless (nearly). The Reltex Lactae Hevea Rallye sole on the Dresden Boots isn’t clunky like other winter boots, yet it still provides crucial grip and a smooth ride, as the brand says. To stay on your feet on slippery roads, that functionality is key. Other finishing touches are on point, too — take the natural leather laces and the classic, handsewn moccasin construction. In short, the Rancourt & Co. Dresden Boots are everything you need in a timeless pair of winter boots — they’re wearable with everything from burgundy corduroys and a navy blazer to broken-in blue denim and a rugged henley, they look great AND they perform even better. What’s not to like?

Will the Rancourt & Co. Dresden Boots be joining your winter footwear rotation? Let me know in the comments or on The Style Guide Facebook page!

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: Toronto, Aztech Mountain and How to Dress for the Holidays

As each week flies by in December, I’m … well, a bit stunned at how quickly time is passing! Wouldn’t you agree? It’s certainly the holiday season in full force here in Brooklyn & NYC, from the lovely Bryant Park Holiday Market to cool decor all lit up around downtown Brooklyn. Are you excited yet?! I sure am. What’s on your holiday style wish list? Hopefully, some great winter gear. If you haven’t done so already, you can certainly take care of your men’s gift guide shopping, and your women’s gift guide shopping, while you’re perusing the pages of this site! I’m looking forward to a relaxing weekend after capping off a busy week — I trekked to Toronto this past weekend to see my favorite band, The National, and loved checking out the city’s craft beer scene and fine shopping (Filson & Frank and Oak were among my stops!). Earlier in the week, we also talked about how to dress for holiday travel, so I hope you keep those tips in mind in the coming weeks. As for me, I’m taking a bit of a trip of my own –I initially meant to take this trip in November, but as it were, I’m heading upstate to the lovely town of Beacon and the famed Dia: Beacon museum for a day trip. Be sure to follow along on Instagramfor more on that. For now, it’s high time we closed out this week — onto the best #menswear news and notes! Cheers!

  • The holidays are filled with tricky dressing situations aplenty, seemingly around every corner. Let’s say you’re traveling to meet your significant other’s parents for the first time (yikes!) this season. Let’s make a great impression, yes? How can you do that? By dressing the part, of course. And that’s where Stitch Fix comes in. If you follow me on Instagram you might be familiar with the brand’s model, which I’ve tested out this past season. In short, a personal stylist provides you with a box packed full of stylish menswear, from layering pieces to shirting and pants, all geared to fit your personal taste (all you need to do is sign up and provide some background info on your style — which I have no doubt is impeccable). You pay for what you keep, and you return the rest for free. It’s like getting a custom outfit picked out for you by a stylish psychic, nearly. Holiday dressing is solved, I’d wager.
  • Know a guy who loves to hit the slopes — in style, of course? If you’re not familiar with Aztech Mountain — a function and fashion-minded brand featuring the input of alpine legend Bode Miller on the brand’s team — then you’d best update yourself now. The brand’s Loge Peak Ski Shirt is handsome, refined and technically savvy, all in one; it’s the perfect splurge gift for the guy who has everything.
  • Code of Bell is wrapping up the last few weeks of a Kickstarter campaign geared toward minimal, functional pieces for your everyday carry, including a line of travel-ready packs that you would certainly do well to check out in advance of the brand’s Spring 2018 product shipment. Read more at the brand’s site, folks.

    Holiday 2017

    OK, that’s all the news and notes I’ve got for you this week — enjoy the weekend, and look for our Style Pick of the Week tomorrow!

    Thanks for reading,

    -Beau

    Holiday 2017