Author / Beau H.

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Reigning Champ Crewneck Sweatshirt

Editor’s note: Expect these posts weekly detailing one standout item coveted by yours truly. Sometimes, these fit within budgetary restrictions and other times, they’re expensive splurges worth saving for. For more Wish List items from Beau, head here, and to see other Style Picks, head here.

Slim-cut, a classic color and plenty of styling options -- the navy crewneck sweatshirt from Reigning Champ.

Slim-cut, a classic color and plenty of styling options — the navy crewneck sweatshirt from Reigning Champ.

As with reaching for a pair of sturdy winter boots or a warm peacoat, there are some style moves that you just have to make in the winter time — mostly out of the increasingly cold weather, but also out of a desire to stay comfortable (and look good!). As far as style essentials go, the crewneck sweatshirt fits into that category. It’s a silhouette that’s really made a comeback into the style mainstream over the past few years going from a long-lost, poor-fitting piece (i.e. Jim Belushi’s crewneck sweater) to a silhouette that designers have turned to when seeking sportswear inspiration. Credit should go to a designer like Todd Snyder and his collaboration with Champion, and credit should also go to our brethren to the north, and the subject of this week’s Style Pick — Reigning Champ. The Canadian-based brand is focused on crafting timeless style staples — like basic tees and varsity jackets — alongside its impressive collection of sportswear-inspired pieces, like its Navy Crewneck Sweatshirt. You very well might recognize the brand from its partnerships with everyone from East Dane to Club Monaco, and the fact that they’re sold in those higher-end retailers is reflective enough of their quality and style — and that’s why you should consider picking one up, good sir.

A view from the back of the Reigning Champ crewneck sweatshirt, featuring raglan should stitching.

A view from the back of the Reigning Champ crewneck sweatshirt, featuring raglan shoulder stitching.

While it is just a crewneck sweatshirt after all, the timeless craftsmanship and neutral color give it lots of styling potential. A navy crewneck hits the sweet spot between dressed-down and business casual — it can be paired with slim tan chinos, captoe sneakers and a chambray shirt (as in this post), and you can even swap out those sneaks for chukka boots and a knit tie. David Beckham even pairs darker navy sweatshirts with blue denim. Of course, a simple navy crew meshes just as well with slim sweatpants and black sneakers on the weekends, too. And coming from Reigning Champ, you know you’ll get exactly what you pay for (from personal experience, the brand’s sweatshirts fit slim, and the fabric is soft & wears nicely). To boot, the Canadian exchange rate puts the Navy Crewneck Sweatshirt at a shade under $90, far less expensive than Todd Snyder’s more Wish List-worthy crewnecks — still pricey, but more agreeable. This Reigning Champ piece doesn’t have the collar or front raglan-sleeve stitching that one might expect from a typical crewneck, but that helps dress it up a bit, while the ribbed side panels, cuffs and hem add some visual interest. For one simple navy crewneck sweatshirt, there’s a lot of upside — and even more potential to wear it a few different ways.

Do you have a navy crewneck in your arsenal? Would you pick up this piece from Reigning Champ?

Florsheim


by Beau H.

The Friday Read: Ethical Clothing, The Best Food in Los Angeles and The SuitSupply Online Outlet

It’s pretty hard to fathom that already, eight days have been crossed off 2016 – it’s been a whirlwind start to the year, what with a weekend in Detroit exploring top menswear spots, followed by a trip this week to the famed Outdoor Retailer Conference in Salt Lake City, where I’ve been busy representing Timberland. It’s been great to meet with lots of trade and lifestyle media, establish new connections and learn more about what others in the editorial and public relations industries have going on.
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And with that being said, I’ll probably be looking forward to a good day of rest on Sunday! As to matters in the #menswear world – how are your 2016 style resolutions holding up so far? I’m already looking to make headway with a few of mine (i.e. wearing less blue), but it’s a work in progress. If you’re looking for a different sort of a revamp, like a stylish pair of winter boots or a warm winter peacoat, click on those links. We’re far from out of the woods with the cold weather though – in that regard, we’ll be rounding up the best men’s winter accessories – from gloves to scarves and socks – on Monday. For now, get ready for happy hour later and enjoy the weekend!

  • DETAILS.com (RIP to the print mag) reports that, according to an Ohio State University study, those who don’t frequently shop for clothing made ethically are perceived as “boring and fashion-challenged.” Yikes! I’ll stick to my Apolis  chinos (and so will DETAILS, apparently).
  • Is L.A. the most exciting food city in America? GQ says yes, yes indeed. I must say, I unfortunately didn’t get to many of these during my trip to Los Angeles this past fall — maybe one day!
  • Ever on top of the digital style game, Dappered reports that the SuitSupply online outlet has returned, filled to the (mostly-stocked) brim with all of your tailoring needs — some of it is quite flashy but other pieces are just right.
  • Long Read of the Week: We’re back with another long read, and this one’s a doozy — Nautilus dives right into the search to find extraterrestrial life, and what it might mean for us mere earthlings.

Can’t get enough #menswear writing? Read these:

    • Throne Watches is producing premium timepieces inspired by great American cities, like the Throne 1.5 x Brooklyn Watch — I found out more for GearMoose (a new writing venture I’m taking on this year!).
    • And not to be outdone, JackThreads is back at it again with its Geo Sweater, as profiled in my latest GearHungry feature.


by Beau H.

Online Shopping Picks: Best Men’s Winter Boots

Pick a boot, any boot. Back left corner: Wolverine 1000 Mile in Navy Suede. Back right corner: Timberland Britton Hill Waterproof Moc Toe. Center: Timberland West Haven Chukka. Front left: Thursday Boot Company Chocolate Suede Scout Chukka. Front right: Thursday Boot Company Roughout Captain Boot.

Pick a boot, any boot. Back left corner: Wolverine 1000 Mile in Navy Suede. Back right corner: Dr. Scholl’s Burke Boot. Center: Timberland West Haven Chukka. Front left: Thursday Boot Company Chocolate Suede Scout Chukka. Front right: Thursday Boot Company Roughout Captain Boot.

Welcome to our first Online Shopping Picks post of 2016! The extremely gradual change of the seasons this past fall & winter has left me a bit caught off-guard stylewise – as soon as the calendar hits late September and early October, I’m normally all about wearing sturdy denim, thick cardigans and tough boots whenever possible, on through December and January. But the fairly temperate climate in NYC made it somewhat difficult to do that when compared to previous years – I still have yet to see snow in NYC, an oddity for me considering cold winters growing up in Michigan. If you find yourself in the same situation, rest assured – winter will get here soon enough, likely with a vengeance. And when it does, make sure you’re prepared ahead of time with a standout pair of reliable winter boots. The picks that follow here were selected by yours truly for their combination of versatility, functionality and overall style. So you won’t find any steel-toed boots or extreme hiking boots below – just reasonably rugged, tough pairs that can work going into the office, going out after and maybe doing some light trekking off-road on the weekends. Check out these picks below, and let me know if I missed any!

#1. Jack Erwin Chester Captoe Boot — $220

A lovely shade of dark brown and a refined captoe merge with a hand-stitched rubber outsole.

A lovely shade of dark brown and a refined captoe merge with a hand-stitched rubber outsole.

The Chester Captoe Boot as seen here checks off three key boxes in rapid succession – great looks, a really solid price and that crucial rubber sole. Jack Erwin has been doing a great job releasing well-curated collections by the season (Exhibit A: its loafers), and its boots are no different. The captoe makes this pair sleek and office-ready like a dress shoe, particularly in the Espresso color, while the rubber sole can definitely get you where you need to go this winter. It’s likely the next step up pricewise from other picks, but well-worth it.

#2. Thursday Boot Company Brown President Boot — $199

No captoe, but still a relatively slim profile -- the President Boot from Thursday Boots.

No captoe, but still a relatively slim profile — the President Boot from Thursday Boots.

Whereas the Jack Erwin captoe is fully suit-ready, the Thursday Boots President Boot is a little more business-casual thanks to the slightly lighter brown leather and lack of a captoe. But that doesn’t make it any less sleek – it’s still got a slim toe shape, yet the rubber sole you’d expect from a durable winter boot. If the sole is anything like that on the Roughout Captain Boot or the Chocolate Suede Scout Chukka, it should provide great traction while holding up reasonably well. These can definitely be worn with a slim pair of denim and a navy blazer-chambray shirt combo as part of a daily uniform – throw in a sharp V-neck sweater if it gets cold.

#3. Wolverine 1000 Mile Boots in Navy Suede — $360

The Wolverine 1000 Mile Boot in Navy Suede, in person -- a Style Guide favorite.

The Wolverine 1000 Mile Boot in Navy Suede, in person — a Style Guide favorite.

The classic 1000 Mile silhouette gets a suede-centric upgrade – which also bumps up the price and knocks it a bit further down this list. However, these Navy Suede boots are true beauties – the suede feels smooth & rich, and the sturdy construction lives up to Wolverine’s standard. The profile is fairly slim as far as a boot goes, so these have looked right at home even alongside dark blue denim. I’d also recommend you try these out with light grey chinos, which should really make that navy suede pop. The price is going to be an investment that merits proper care, so they might be less ready to wear in all kinds of weather – but it’s going to be hard to leave them inside.

#4. Cole Haan + Todd Snyder Olmstead Boot in Chestnut — $249

Certainly more unique-looking, and perhaps more suited to casual wear, but still a durable and stylish option.

Certainly more unique-looking, and perhaps more suited to casual wear, but still a durable and stylish option.

The Olmstead Boot is marked down to $249 from its original price, so it’d be a wise bet to jump on them now (sizes are somewhat limited, too — from 8.5 up to 13, pushing it further down the list). They’re perhaps the most unique-looking pair of boots on this list owing in part to that wedge sole – they’ll likely wear a bit more like the sneaker-boots that seem to be all the rage. The moc toe silhouette and contrast stitching could make these a bit more tough to pull off, but the dark brown color grounds them a little bit. That should help them sit just right underneath slim grey or blue denim in a casual workplace. Pair these guys up with a navy crewneck sweater and slim tan chinos on the weekends, too – trust me.

#5. Red Wing Heritage Iron Ranger Boots in Black — $319.99

A sharp Black makes these a tad more refined than the thicker profile might suggest.

A sharp Black makes these a tad more refined than the thicker profile might suggest.

One of the most recognizable boot silhouettes in the game today, the Iron Ranger is another certified classic. It wears a little more bulky than the sleek Jack Erwin or Thursday pairs at the top of this list, and it’s pricier, so it does get knocked down the list. BUT, the black color makes this pair both rugged and fairly refined – they’re going to be that pair you reach for in extremely deep snow, yet could still leave on for work if you take care of them properly and match them up with the proper style essentials (like sturdy chinos or denim and a refined chambray shirt). Like the Wolverine boots above, these guys are a definite investment – but as investments go, it never hurts to stock up on tough boots before winter.
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So that brings us to the end of this list – know that some other budget options were considered, like the much-loved JC Penney Stafford Deacon Wingtip Boot. I’d also urge you to swing through the seemingly ever-expanding footwear offerings at J. Crew – they stock a variety of boots, including the classic Alden Indy, and sometimes offer them up on sale. It might seem as if there’s plenty of time before winter really hits – but it’ll be here before you know it. So stock up on your favorite boots, and wear them well this winter.

Tell me – what pair are you thinking about buying on this list? What’s your winter boot go-to right now?

Florsheim

by Beau H.

New year, new style: 2016 Men’s Style Resolutions

Just thinking on my 2016 style resolutions. Navy turtleneck by Uniqlo. Custom Glenplaid suit trousers by Combatant Gentleman. Charcoacl socks by American Trench. Chocolate Suede Scout Chukkas by Thursday Boot Company. Glasses by Warby Parker.

Just thinking on my 2016 style resolutions. Navy turtleneck by Uniqlo. Custom Glenplaid suit trousers by Combatant Gentleman. Charcoacl socks by American Trench. Chocolate Suede Scout Chukkas by Thursday Boot Company. Glasses by Warby Parker.

Does it really seem like it’s January 5th already? Maybe it’s just me, but it feels like the first few days of the year flew by as fast as the last few days of 2015! I spent the weekend in Detroit checking out some great menswear spots, eating some tasty food and exploring the city — maybe that’s why time has gone so fast? (Of note if you get to Detroit — the Shinola shop is a must-visit!). At any rate, it’s high time to keep buckling down, or getting started on, those New Year’s resolutions — particularly from a style perspective. I’m curious to know — what are your style resolutions?

For some of us, maybe it entails slimming down your wardrobe — that is, focusing on only the style essentials you need to craft great outfits. My friend Barron at Effortless Gent has  a great place to start — called The Lean Wardrobe, it’ll teach you everything you need to know about the in’s and out’s of using versatile, stylish pieces to your advantage. We’re talking taking a few items and mixing and matching them a ton of ways. If, on a similar note, you’re looking to add more mileage to your current wardrobe — but doing so with some fresh takes on old classics — I’d recommend you take a peek at an ongoing series written by yours truly for Effortless Gent: Five Ways to Wear One, showing you how to make the most of style staples like dark denim, a sturdy leather bomber or burgundy cords. It’s actually proven a fun exercise in writing and styling for me, as I’ve had to push myself to think of new outfit combinations, styles and products (the rest is a secret though, I swear).
Florsheim
And as I look toward 2016 myself, I’m looking back on 2015 and setting out a few goals for myself (in addition to continuing to discover and share new brands and products for The Style Guide, that is). To perhaps get you thinking — or keep you on the right track — here are a few of my style resolutions outlined below.

One of my goals in 2016 -- dress up a bit more! Blue Double Windowpane Shirt, Floral & Dot Brown Tie and custom Glenplaid Suit all by Combatant Gentleman. Pocket square by Banana Republic.

One of my goals in 2016 — dress up a bit more! Blue Double Windowpane Shirt, Floral & Dot Brown Tie and custom Glenplaid Suit all by Combatant Gentleman. Pocket square by Banana Republic.

#1. Suit up more — Yes, that’s right. Yours truly, dedicated menswear blogger, hasn’t worn a ton ties as of late. Perhaps it comes from seeing folks  like Matthew Graber  on Instagram put together consistently stunning outfit grids and photos featuring more ties, blazers and stellar shirts than you can shake a tie clip at, but it’s gotten me thinking of ways to maximize my rather large collection of ties — and some rugged style staples I wear quite a bit, like a great chambray shirt.

#2. Mix and match — This partly plays off number one (and probably looks a lot like the image you see at the top of the page), but I don’t often go full suit-and-tie — and that also means I don’t make nearly as much use out of what suit separates I do own outside of formal occasions. I have a classic navy worsted wool J. Crew Factory suit (similar to this one), plus a custom Glenplaid suit from Combatant Gentleman (seen at the photo at the top), but I’d love to experiment more with pairing the suit trousers with an odd blazer or turtleneck and dress boots — or even some sharp leather sneakers — if the occasion calls for it.

Plenty of blue to go around. Chambray shirt by Todd Shelton. Charcoal blazer by Uniqlo. Navy suede 1000 Mile boots by Wolverine. Norfolk Raw Denim by Mott & Bow. Red knit tie by 15ties. Leather belt & floral pocket square by J. Crew. Striped socks by American Trench.

Plenty of blue to go around. Chambray shirt by Todd Shelton. Charcoal blazer by Uniqlo. Navy suede 1000 Mile boots by Wolverine. Norfolk Raw Denim by Mott & Bow. Red knit tie by 15ties. Leather belt & floral pocket square by J. Crew. Striped socks by American Trench.

#3. Wear … less blue — I’m a huge fan of the color blue, from dark denim to navy suede boots to chambray shirts — often in the same outfit, as you can see above. To me, it’s remarkably versatile and wearable in nearly any sort of situation — there’s a reason why Bond defaults to classics like navy suits, and there’s a reason why a slim pair of dark denim can go just about anywhere these days. As nice as it is to be able to wear something so consistently, I’d like to simply branch out into other colors in shirting and trousers particular — be it a red chambray shirt, or getting more use out of my burgundy cords (sans blue OCBD). It could prove tricky, but I’ll give it a shot!

Those are just a few — as I continue to find style inspiration lots of different places, I hope you’ll do the same, and keep me updated along the way! Drop me a line on Twitter or shoot me an email via the Contact page above — and perhaps leave a comment if you feel so inclined. Best of luck as we go forward in 2016! Let’s all keep it stylish.

by Beau H.

On the road again: Kicking off 2016 in Detroit

Editor’s note: For more details on part 1 of this trip, click here.

Spending time in Midtown near Shinola & Willy's Detroit. Collegiate Bomber by JackThreads. Plaid flannel shirt by Todd Snyder. Skinny Fulton Chinos by Banana Republic. Chocolate Suede Scout Chukkas by Thursday Boots. Patterned socks by Richer Poorer. Stainless steel dive watch by Invicta

Spending time in Midtown near Shinola & Willys Detroit. Collegiate Bomber by JackThreads. Hemingway Elbow Patch Shirt by Todd Snyder. Skinny Fulton Chinos by Banana Republic. Chocolate Suede Scout Chukkas by Thursday Boots. Patterned socks by Richer Poorer. Stainless steel dive watch by Invicta

When I first got word that a big group of friends was heading to Detroit to ring in the new year (and watch our alma mater Michigan State play in the College Football Playoff), I knew I had to make the trip — even after being on the road in Florida just a few days before. While I was definitely disappointed in Michigan State’s loss in the College Football Playoff, I wasn’t disappointed at all with the rest of my time in Detroit. The city has been the subject of tons of national headlines for its economic woes, and certain parts of the city are definitely still feeling that blight (I’ll leave it to the experts to talk more about that). Even still, there are plenty of cultural and economic bright spots that, at least outwardly, are helping put the city back on the map — and yes, as with any trip, there’s plenty of great menswear to go along with that.

Equal parts rock music and menswear -- the John Varvatos shop in downtown Detroit

Equal parts rock music and menswear — the John Varvatos shop in downtown Detroit

For a quick flight to Detroit and a brief afternoon of exploration before kicking off the New Year’s Eve festivities, I layered up with my Todd Shelton chambray shirt, my trusty Pistol Lake henley and some skinny Fulton chinos from Banana Republic (also seen in the photo at the top of the page). The outfit was versatile and comfortable, and it made for some quick walking to the nearby John Varvatos shop, a large installment that pays homage to both the designer’s Detroit roots and the brand’s deep love for the rock music industry. The clothing and the shop itself definitely have a substantial rock n’roll vibe, which suits some but  can be a bit much for my taste. However, the shop is impressively merchandised and also has a great selection of audio and music equipment for sale.
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A walk by some other notable downtown sites (including The Fillmore, Comerica Park and Ford Field), ate up the rest of the afternoon before game time (definitely a different change of pace on New Year’s Eve!). With a few quick changes (namely, throwing on my JackThreads Fisherman Cardigan and swapping out the henley), I was ready for the rest of the night. Detroit’s Greektown district was buzzing with activity and a fitting place to catch the game — that is, until things turned south for our beloved Spartans. Try as we might, that did put a bit of a damper on the new year, but the Firebird Tavern was still a fun spot to check out, and worthy of a trip if you find yourself in Greektown.

Cozy, versatile and stylish. Collegiate Bomber by JackThreads. Nomad French Terry Sweatpants by Bonobos. Striped socks by American Trench. Black chukka sneakers by Reef.

Cozy, versatile and stylish. Collegiate Bomber by JackThreads. Nomad French Terry Sweatpants by Bonobos. Striped socks by American Trench. Black chukka sneakers by Reef.

A hearty brunch to kick off the new year was in order, and the Hudson Café definitely delivered in that regard — the rest of the large crowd gathered there thought so, too. Staying cozy and comfortable was also in order to start the new year, and my JackThreads Collegiate Bomber — plus some striped American Trench socks and my Bonobos French Terry Sweatpants— proved more than up to the task. My Reef Outhaul Lux Chukka Sneakers were also minimal, comfortable and stylish — exactly the type of sneaker you should reach for if you decide pair them with tapered sweatpants on a cold day off. New Year’s Day football was definitely a treat (although not as fun as an MSU win would’ve been!), and our dinner plans led us to the Cornerstone Barrel House, a tap house equal parts rugged-and-refined that offers some delicious local beer and tasty bites.

A delicious coffee from Shinola's in-store cafe is crucial. Collegiate Bomber by JackThreads. Stainless steel dive watch by Invicta.

A delicious coffee from Shinola’s in-store cafe is crucial. Collegiate Bomber by JackThreads. Stainless steel dive watch by Invicta.

A great dinner and a relaxing night was crucial, as I got out the door to see the rest of Detroit’s #menswear scene on Saturday. That included a stop by the revered Shinola store — coming from someone who loves the brand’s NYC store, it was a real treat to be able to see what the brand can do with more real estate, and in its hometown. Shinola really is continuing to cement its legacy in the Detroit area — the installation of the brand’s own watch dial production facility in its flagship store is nearly complete, and it’s got that Detroit work ethic down pat. It’s great news in the meantime that Shinola offers up other great goods, like American-made journals and an entire assortment of bicycles. Plus, the on-site coffee shop is a key pit stop before exploring other nearby haunts, like Willys Detroit — a sister shop of Shinola that’s packed to the brim with rugged menswear from Filson, Steven Alan and Apolis, plus women’s apparel & accessories. It’s also worth a visit, if only to enjoy the impressive retail experience rather than purchase something.

The impressive, and brand-new, physical outpost of Third Man Records is definitely worth a trip.

The impressive, and brand-new, physical outpost of Third Man Records is definitely worth a trip.

No stop along that stretch is complete without stopping into the brand-new physical outpost of Third Man Records, another offshoot of the record company founded by Detroit rocker Jack White — if you’re a fan of rock music, or just the art of vinyl and music-making in general, it’s a must-visit. We also took the time to swing by Atwater Brewery on Saturday night, an expansive waterfront location serving up delicious staples like its famous Vanilla Java Porter and the equally tasty Pheasant Hog, a rich brown ale. It’s great to be able to see businesses continue to dedicate time and resources to bringing back Detroit, through both retail and music experiences, plus delicious food and drink — all are necessary for travelers and locals alike!

Dependable travel gear to fight the cold and stay stylish. Buffalo Bobber Gloves by Iron & Resin. Mt. Drew Duffle by United By Blue.

Dependable travel gear to fight the cold and stay stylish. Buffalo Bobber Gloves by Iron & Resin. Mt. Drew Duffle by United By Blue. Leather luggage tag by Owen & Fred.

A busy end to a busy weekend was capped off on Sunday with a stop by Will Leather Goods, another business with deep, decades-old Detroit roots that’s a new addition to the city’s Midtown neighborhood. The entire store is nearly a work of art, packed with everything from excellent leather messenger bags to vintage finds like barber’s chairs and a massive teepee (yes, a teepee). To explore that part of town, I reached for my sturdy Mott & Bow Norfolk raw denim — it’s one pair of jeans that’s breaking in quite nicely, and the heavier weight made them more than ideal for the chilly weather Detroit threw at us. A striped henley from J. Crew and my ever-reliable Todd Shelton chambray shirt, plus my dependable Invicta Pro Diver, helped me tackle both my final hours in Detroit and travel back to NYC on Monday morning (those flight delays always seem to catch up with me!).

It was tough to say goodbye to great friends and an unexpectedly awesome city filled with some terrific shopping and a steady cultural scene. Were I to visit again (and I’ll be back!), I’d love to check out the Detroit Institute of Art, and some other similar spots. Although some parts of Detroit still leave something to be desired (to say the least), there’s no question that the right businesses and people are around to continue to drive the city forward — and those same businesses would definitely make it worth a trip for you… although might I suggest a stop when it’s warm?

Until I hit the road again — stay stylish!

-Beau
Ben Sherman US

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Todd Snyder Hemingway Elbow Patch Shirt

Editor’s note: Expect these posts weekly detailing one standout item coveted by yours truly. Sometimes, these fit within budgetary restrictions and other times, they’re expensive splurges worth saving for. For more Wish List items from Beau, head here, and to see other Style Picks, head here.

Rustic yet refined at the same time -- the Hemingway Elbow Patch Shirt from Todd Snyder.

Rustic yet refined at the same time — the Hemingway Elbow Patch Shirt from Todd Snyder.

During my Christmas trip to Florida last week, I was pretty lucky to get some terrific gifts (mostly #menswear-inclined) from Santa. And among those gifts was none other than the standout Hemingway Elbow Patch Shirt you see at the top of the page from lauded American menswear designer Todd Snyder. The Midwest-born designer has been delivering on modern updates to heritage classics these past few years, and this soft cotton shirt with sturdy suede elbow patches definitely checks off some key boxes in that regard. Even better for you, my fellow menswear fan — it’s on-sale right now (marked down to $129 from $185). That price is still enough to scare people away, but given the brand’s history of quality and style, it might not be a bad way to spend your bonus. It’s great in another regard, too: As the weather gets colder, I’m all about incorporating texture into my wardrobe, from a wool bomber to a thick shawl cardigan and tough denim.The inclination toward richer textures goes for shirting as well, and it’s a move that you should consider making yourself — a cotton flannel shirt can serve a two-fold role; if it’s cut slim enough, you can wear it under a V-neck sweater, and if it proves to be hardy enough, you can definitely layer it over a henley (as I did on a trip to Grand Rapids this past fall).

Cold-weather style essentials with which to pair this shirt -- the Buffalo Bobber Glove from Iron & Resin, and a Merino Watch Cap from American Trench.

A closer look at the elbow patches and texture that make this piece special. Pictured with cold-weather style essentials ideal for the season — the Buffalo Bobber Glove from Iron & Resin, and a Merino Watch Cap from American Trench.

The grey plaid of this shirt is understated, and the spread (not buttondown) collar means this shirt leans a bit dressier than most flannels — especially when worn under something like a slim navy blazer. Crucially, the elbow patches add a nice bit of visual interest and a vintage look when the shirt is worn on its own.  In fact, it could be a neat style swerve to ditch the jacket and throw on a slim herringbone tie and some tan chinos for an office-ready take. Throw in some brown leather sneakers and that look could be complete. Of course, this shirt is probably going to work best alongside rugged denim and sturdy winter boots, maybe even underneath a vest if you’re feeling particularly rugged. The slim collar and muted colors make it dressy, but those elbow patches and the rustic pattern make it rugged — that’s exactly what you need in a shirt this winter.

Do you own any Todd Snyder shirts? How would you style this piece, elbow patches and all?
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Florsheim

 

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: CBGB, 2015’s Most Important Style and Lawrence Hunt Shirts

Editor’s note: Expect these posts once a week on Fridays — consider this a jumpstart on reading for your weekend downtime. Expect a mix of style and non-style content. For more entries, click here. 

Happy 2016, everyone! Thanks for being here to kick off the new year at The Style Guide. Did you see that the blog has a Facebook page now? Head that way to stay up-to-date on my latest posts and more news from the menswear world. We’ll be getting to some style resolutions next week, but in the meantime, I hope you had a great New Year’s Eve — I’ve enjoyed being in Detroit to celebrate the start of 2016 with old friends, and it’s proving to be an undoubtedly fun weekend so far in Michigan. It was also nice to be in Florida last weekend to celebrate Christmas with my family, but the temperature change is a rather rude awakening. There’s much more to come on the style front across this next year, and I’m excited to share it with you — but first, let’s pick up where we left off with a New Year’s Day edition of the Friday Read. Enjoy that Bloody Mary bar, folks.

  • Huckberry closed out 2015 with its first-ever Readers’ Choice Awards — part shop, part look back at the site’s best gear, it’s up and running now for your perusal (and potential purchasing).
  • News of the reopening of CBGB — in the Newark airport of all places — was first reported last week, but now word’s gotten out from Consequence of Sound that the same company responsible for that atrocity is planning to produce … wait for it… CBGB-branded onesies and T-shirts.
  • And not be forgotten as we start 2016, Esquire recaps the 15 most important men’s style moments of 2015.
    What tops your list? It’s hard to beat SPECTRE (yes, the entire movie) in my mind, yet sadly — it didn’t make this list.
  • Style Note of the Week: If you’re aiming to dress more stylishly — and comfortably — in 2016, pick up a shirt from Michigan-based Lawrence Hunt. The shirtmaker combines moisture-wicking athleticwear underarm inserts with the trim body and construction of a dress shirt for a versatile piece — read more about at via VOUCH Mag!

Have a great start to 2016, and come back through on Monday for a recap of my trip to Detroit!

-Beau
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by Beau H.

Onward: Packing for a Motor City New Year’s Eve and Recapping 2015

Editor’s note: To see more travel style posts, click here.

Rolling up the ol' (Gustin Spring Plaid) shirt sleeves to get to work on more content for 2016. Thanks for reading!

Rolling up the ol’ (Gustin Spring Plaid) shirt sleeves to get to work on more content for 2016. Thanks for reading!

As I think back on 2015 and the opportunities I received through my day job in fashion PR and through writing on this blog and elsewhere, I’m nothing but extremely grateful. I’m grateful for the amazing people I’ve met, from fellow bloggers to readers, and the excellent brands I’ve gotten to work with on reader giveaways and product reviews. — lots of great businesses run by even better people. I’m equally grateful for the cool ongoing features that have developed (however small) at The Style Guide — including the Style Pick of the Week and Friday Read series — and I’m especially grateful for those that have taken the time to read this blog.  Of course, I’m really grateful for the support of my family and friends above everything, who’ve read these posts, offered their feedback and snapped most of the photos of me you see here — and that’s on top of everything else!
I hope you like what you’ve read, and I hope you’ve enjoyed the journey along the way, whether you’ve stopped here for a new wardrobe on a budget or just sought out a great style upgrade or two to improve your closet. 2016 will definitely bring more menswear content, from product reviews and style suggestions to brand profiles, along with travel style posts. It’s become one of my favorite things to do, and I’ve immensely enjoyed seeing everywhere from Greece and Italy to Los Angeles and Grand Rapids in the past few months.

Packing a soon-to-be-reliable United By Blue duffle bag once again.

Packing a soon-to-be-reliable United By Blue Mt. Drew Duffle bag once again. Leather luggage tag by Owen & Fred.

So it’s only fitting that, to cap off 2015, I’ll be in Detroit for the weekend to visit with college friends, watch my alma mater Michigan State play in the College Football Playoff and explore more of an up-and-coming city. That means I might not be as formal as James Bond in this New Year’s Eve Style Suggestion, but maybe one day? Of course, it wouldn’t a true road trip if I didn’t bring some of my favorite picks along with me (sans tuxedo and handgun). As on my Christmas trip to Florida, I’ll be packing great gear in my new favorite bag, the sturdy United By Blue duffle you see above.

Cozy gear for a cold weekender. French Terry Nomad Joggers by Bonobos. White henley by Pistol Lake. Collegiate Bomber by JackThreads.

Cozy gear for a cold weekend. French Terry Nomad Joggers by Bonobos. White henley by Pistol Lake. Collegiate Bomber by JackThreads.

As the forecast in Michigan calls for lots of chilly weather, I’m definitely packing to stay as warm as possible, from my new Bonobos French Terry Nomad Joggers and a JackThreads Collegiate Bomber, to my ever-reliable Pistol Lake Henley — each should definitely prove suitable for weekend wear and a quick brunch run or two. Accompanying me on the trip will be a few reliable pairs of shoes — notably, my Reef Outhaul Lux Chukka Sneakers, which are quite comfortable and also right at home with the colder climes of the city thanks to the high-top cut. I’m also bringing along my Timberland West Haven Side Zip Boots, and (assuming my bag can fit ’em!) my trusty Thursday Boot Company Chocolate Suede Scout Chukkas.

Tried-and-true trip essentials -- a chambray shirt and suede chukka boots. Shirt by Todd Shelton. Chocolate Suede Scout Chukkas by Thursday Boot Company.

Tried-and-true trip essentials — a chambray shirt and suede chukka boots. Shirt by Todd Shelton. Chocolate Suede Scout Chukkas by Thursday Boot Company. Adventure Log by Word Notebooks.

To keep warm the rest of the time, I’m turning to some trusty style staples. Those will include my JackThreads Fisherman Cardigan, some tough Iron & Resin gloves and some comfortable American Trench socks. Throw in a merino watch cap (also from American Trench), and I should be all set. As to your own bag, a few sets of reliable socks– maybe ones with some premium fabric — are going to prove helpful and quite comfortable if you find yourself on the road a lot, too. I also plan to rock my Reef x H.D. Lee Workshirt — it’s a tough seasonal style essential, and I’d recommend you  look to layering pieces that can function as outerwear should you ever find yourself short on packing space. Of course, no trip to a cold-weather climate would be complete without tossing in a rugged shir; my Todd Shelton Chambray Shirt should do just the trick for layering over a henley (yes, I do love me some henleys!). I’m also happy to get to the chance to test out my beautifully crafted Hemingway Elbow Patch Shirt from Todd Snyder, by way of Santa — check back here on Saturday for more on that shirt.

A crisp watch that strikes a dress-casual balance is crucial for weekend trips. Watch by MVMT Watches.

A crisp watch that strikes a dress-casual balance is crucial for weekend trips. Watch by MVMT Watches.

As is proving customary on these trips, I’m looking to round out my bag with some travel-ready denim from Mott & Bow, and I’ll also be bringing a new pair of skinny Fulton chinos from Banana Republic — the caramel color should prove versatile and ready for just about anything, including travel days. To top it off, I’m definitely bringing a dependable pair of watches, including The 40 – Blue/Brown Leather from MVMT and my Invicta Pro Diver. So all of that stellar #menswear should leave just enough room for some everyday carry supplies — namely a new Public Supply notebook and some sweet Woodbuds headphones, plus my reliable BYRD Hairdo x Richer Poorer Dopp Kit. When you next hit the road, I’d say don’t skimp on those small goods- – brands like Richer Poorer and Baxter of California offer terrific travel-friendly toiletries kits, and it never hurts to bring along a notebook and nice headphones.

Now that my bag’s ready to go, I’m just about set to jet off for another fun weekend — and an incredibly fun way to close out 2015! I can’t wait to see what 2016 has in store, and I’ll hope you’ll be back! For now, know that I’ll be here with a Detroit edition of the Friday Read to kick off the new year, followed by the first of 2016’s weekly Style Picks on Saturday. Thanks so very much for reading, and as always…

Stay stylish,

-Beau


by Beau H.

Online Shopping Picks: Best Men’s Peacoats for Winter

Perhaps the most famous recent peacoat advocate -- 007. Looking sharp in a wool number from Billy Reid.

Perhaps the most famous recent peacoat advocate — 007. Looking sharp in a wool number from Billy Reid.

Just as in yesterday’s New Year’s Eve Style Suggestion, we turn (seemingly as always) to everyone’s favorite secret agent for some great style inspiration — this time, centered around the essential peacoat. Now, the seasonal change this time of year has left lots of traditional winter gear on shelves without much use. But even in the past few days, temperatures have dropped slightly in NYC — not earth-shatteringly cold, but still chillier. Winter weather style calls for taking lots of different items and pairing them together in one stylish ensemble – and that definitely starts with great outerwear. We’re looking for something thicker and less casual than a fall and winter jacket, cut slightly longer and yet not as formal as the topcoat. In this case, we’re looking for that classic, military-inspired style staple – the peacoat. Traditional peacoats were worn on the decks of naval ships to combat the rough seas, but today’s versions see action in a different set of circumstances (particularly if you’re Mr. Bond). Some are too short to wear over a blazer, but they do just fine over an array of crewneck and V-neck sweaters, henleys and other layers, and they look great with some dark denim or chinos. So with those checkpoints in mind, I set out to find some great peacoat options – so you don’t have to, my fellow busy menswear fan.  Read on, and stay stylish.


#1. JackThreads The Peacoat — $159.50

Slim, neutral and wearable with just about anything -- exactly what you should look for in a sharp peacoat.

Slim, neutral and wearable with just about anything — exactly what you should look for in a sharp peacoat.

JackThreads, as with most of the offerings in its menswear line launched this past fall, rightly focuses on doing a basic style in an essential way with its simply named peacoat. It’s cut slimmer and features those handy chest pockets in addition to the flap hip pockets, so it should work pretty easily to slip your hands into those chest pockets. It’s a wool-polyester blend, but even items from JackThreads that do feature polyester (such as the Navy Geo Sweater) don’t feel cheap or move poorly — so consider this peacoat a definite step up in quality from cheaper options, at a greatly reduced price compared to what 007 wears. Charcoal or navy color options in addition to the crisp Heather Grey make this one a keeper.

#2. Frank & Oak Double-Breasted Plaid Peacoat — $78

The plaid pattern is a bit loud, but the slim fit and the quality of Frank & Oak should definitely deliver.

The plaid pattern is a bit loud, but the slim fit and the quality of Frank & Oak should definitely deliver.

At first glance, the price on this Double-Breasted Plaid Peacoat is an eye-popper, considering it’s marked down from $225 as part of the brand’s End-of-Year Sale. That might be because of the slightly loud plaid pattern, but the navy-and-grey combo still grounds this jacket pretty nicely. It’s double-breasted and, like the JackThreads option above, features both chest pockets and hip flap pockets for warmth. This number is all-wool with a light padding, and it looks to be cut just a bit more like a blazer, so perhaps it could work atop a more casual jacket. Frank & Oak definitely delivers on quality for the price, so you can feel more confident about this $78 coat than even a more expensive H&M peacoat.

#3. J. Crew Factory Classic Peacoat in Charcoal — $135.50

A reliable budget pick-up from a reliable budget retailer.

A reliable budget pick-up from a reliable budget retailer.

While J. Crew is currently offering its Dock Coat on sale, J. Crew Factory again steps up with a reliable and classic budget option. The Classic Peacoat really is about as classic as it gets, with a true 10-button front and flannel-lined flap pockets. It looks downright sturdy and retails for a great price, and that charcoal color, while not nearly as versatile as navy, should still prove more wearable than a solid black peacoat. The fit should lean on the trim side, so that’s good news even if you do like to layer over multiple pieces.

#4. Bonobos The Bristol Peacoat — $398

A modern fit and neutral color make this very nearly worth the price tag.

A modern fit and neutral color make this very nearly worth the price tag.

Another maritime-inspired classic, the Bristol Peacoat features higher chest pockets (placed too high?) and customary hip pockets, with a few design extras (like a belted back) thrown in for good measure. It’s flannel-lined and also features lightweight quilting, so you’re looking at one jacket that’s extra warm and cut trim and modern, to boot. As with a lot of what Bonobos sells these days, it’s priced a bit above what most of us would be comfortable paying, but the versatile grey color and Italian wool construction should make it worth the asking price.

#5. Billy Reid Bond Peacoat — $795

A warm olive/brown color plus a trim fit and the same silhouette as worn by 007 -- doesn't get any better.

A warm olive/brown color plus a trim fit and the same silhouette as worn by 007 — doesn’t get any better.

The Billy Reid Bond Peacoat is on here, admittedly, for posterity – just as with the enviable but expensive Shinola leather weekender that found its way onto my list of best weekender bags. Unfortunately however, the option pictured at the very top of this post is on backorder in all but Medium and Large. Billy Reid is famous for its quality and refinement, so it’s a logical choice that this same cut of coat saw heavy play in Skyfall (and as part of the real-life wardrobe of Daniel Craig). This coat in particular is warm, slim-cut and sharp-looking with a shirt and tie or a henley and denim. Plus, the brown color (which leans more toward olive), is just different enough, but still wearable with everything from navy to heather grey and shades of tan.

While only the very lucky few can hope to emulate 007 this winter, the above options should help keep you stylish and warm in chilly weather. Check back here next week for the best winter boots to pair with your peacoat, and look after that for features on stylish winter accessories and online shopping picks for the most formal coat you can rock this winter, the topcoat. Stay warm!


by Beau H.

Style Suggestion: What to Wear on New Year’s Eve

Editor’s note: For more Style Suggestions covering situations formal to casual, head here.

"How much do you know about fear?" Bond: "All there is." Now THAT is style worth emulating for New Year's Eve.

“How much do you know about fear?” Bond: “All there is.” Now THAT is style worth emulating for New Year’s Eve.

While most of us can only hope to be as sharply dressed as Mr. Bond up there (and headed somewhere as debonair as a floating casino), it can still pay off to dress to impress on New Year’s Eve — even if you aren’t swilling martinis or fighting henchmen. The outfit below plays off the tailored-but-tieless look that’s still popping up lots of different places, so it’s more dressed-down than Bond but definitely geared toward the formal end of the spectrum even without the tie. But if your night shakes out more casually (or formally, for that matter), know that the same basic pieces — tailored trousers, a crisp shirt and slick boots — can work just about anywhere. With that in mind, let’s get set to close out the year in style and look forward to a sharp 2016.
Florsheim

The Suit: Combatant Gentleman Deep Blue Slim Fit Suit — $220 OR Combatant Gentleman Blue Slim Fit Suit — $160

One brand, two options for sharp style -- and two great prices.

One brand, two options for sharp style — and two great prices.

Each of the above two options strikes a slightly different tone — the heightened color of the Deep Blue Slim Fit Suit is a vibe that’s all movie star-red carpet, a la Ryan Gosling.  Think of it as a positive style swerve if you have the basics covered. But if you’re not willing to spring for a suit in that shade or feel like saving some money (more for champagne, amirite??), a navy blue suit never fails — whether you go with the reliable Combatant Gentleman option here or with one you already own. If the jacket is too formal, the trousers could even be worn on their own with a great leather jacket or a sharp overcoat and V-neck sweater.

The Shirt: Standard Shirt White Dress Shirt — $59

Your pick of collar choices for classic style.

Your pick of collar choices for classic style.

The Standard Shirt has been profiled on this blog before and also featured prominently in a Holiday Party Style Suggestion, and for good reason. It’s lightweight, breathable and quite crisp for the price. Plus, a white shirt is a great style play in this case because it can either ground that electric blue suit impressively, or keep more in line with the classic style of a crisp navy suit — particularly sans tie. And the Standard Shirt features a tailored cut that would look more than fine when worn without a traditional suit jacket, if needed. On the other hand, a slim knit tie in a simple color — black, a la everyone’s favorite secret agent — would more than up the formality of the look.

The Pocket Square: J. Crew Factory Linen Pocket Square — $12

Nothing fancy -- but nothing too trendy -- about a timeless white pocket square.

Nothing fancy — but nothing too trendy — about a timeless white pocket square.

When you go with crisp style essentials like a classic white shirt and a blue suit, sometimes there’s no need to go wild with a pocket square. J. Crew Factory’s linen pocket square gets the job done more than suitably for the price. Beyond New Year’s Eve as well, a white pocket square (even in linen) is going to add a nice finishing touch to many a tailored ensemble — so grab one now before it’s too late!

The Boots: Thursday Boot Company Black Duke Chelsea Boot — $199

Channeling some 60s style with a tailored suit and Chelsea boots.

Channeling some 60s style with a tailored suit and Chelsea boots.

While Bond himself mainly favors crisp black captoes or dress boots as of late, we’ll forgo the laces with these Chelsea boots in keeping with the slick and sharp vibe of the outfit. Thursday Boot Company makes solid suede chukkas and dependable captoe boots, so it follows that the Duke Chelsea Boot  should be pretty comfortable for the price — plus, the studded rubber outsole should add nice traction on slick streets. Note that if needed in a pinch, H&M also offers a very budget-friendly Chelsea boot option.

The Belt: Will Leather Goods Marlow Belt — $75

Trim and refined -- just like the tailored ensemble.

Trim and refined — just like the tailored ensemble.

While it might seem ludicrous at first to pay more for a belt than for a shirt, it’s a pickup that can pay big, big dividends. The Marlow Belt is a refined dress belt that keeps things super sleek thanks to the dark buckle and slim width, plus the dark black suede. For those who say black and blue can’t be worn together … well, we all know who’s bucked that theory time and again. It’s a combo that’s going to look  super crisp in this instance, especially as it grounds the heightened blue suit or fits in nicely with a navy suit. You could also go with a cheaper black leather dress belt from EXPRESS if needed.

The Watch: Daniel Wellington 40mm Classic Sheffield in Rose Gold — $229

The rose gold case and markings set this watch off nicely.

The rose gold case and markings set this watch off nicely.

The importance of timeless accessories — like a great belt or solid shoes — is no more important than when you’re going with an outfit that’s more minimal. The top-to-bottom look is pretty sleek in this case sans tie and traditional lace-up dress shoes, so a refined watch from Daniel Wellington will look right at home. While  the typical play might be to reach for a watch with a silver case here, the rose gold case color should pop nicely against the blue suit and black belt + shoes — or even dark denim and a simple cashmere sweater.

The Socks: American Trench Dress Rib Socks in Cloud Grey – $14.50

These simple grey dress socks are back again.

These simple grey dress socks are back again.

Last but not least, the ever-important finishing touch. Recognize these dress socks from American Trench? They’ve appeared in this blog as part of a Holiday Party Style Suggestion (among others), and that underscores their wearability and quality. Heck, you might not think about them too much once they’re on, but the dialed-in grey color and sleek  look (no crazy patterns) makes a difference when taken in context with the rest of this outfit. That’s more than worth their price upfront.

As we’ve talked about before, maybe things won’t get overly fancy for you on New Year’s Eve. However, it pays to be prepared and to get some style inspiration heading into a big night, and the new year. And if wanting to look sharper in everyday situations is a style goal for yourself, as it is for yours truly, there’s no better time to start than the present. Because, simply put, we can’t all live twice.
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