October 21, 2015October 28, 2015 by Beau H.

Reader Giveaway Opportunity: Goorin Brothers

Rocking an unexpected style from a heritage hat brand. Read on to win a gift from Goorin Brothers! Unconstructed blazer by J. Crew. Heathered burgundy pocket tee by Steven Alan. Slim khaki chinos by Taylor Stitch. Chukka boots by Timberland. Glasses by Warby Parker.

Editor’s note: Thanks to all who participated! And congrats to the giveaway winner, Ali N.! Stay stylish, folks.

There are some brands that do one thing so well, you can’t help but stop and take notice. Goorin Brothers, heritage hatmakers for more than a century, absolutely fit the bill. After seeing some of the brand’s shops around Brooklyn and Manhattan across the past six months or so — four shops in total — my interest was piqued. I connected with the brand’s lovely PR team and have since been fortunate enough to learn lots more about Goorin — and it’s no exaggeration to say it’s been all good things (read a full brand profile here). A nice hat is a style accessory that not all will be interested in, granted, but if you do decide to go that route, there’s no better place to look than Goorin. It’s a company that’s rooted in quality and family principles, and they make just about every hat style you can imagine, from felt fedoras to flatcaps and perhaps my personal favorite as seen above, a line of vintage ballcaps. But, it’s perhaps the more classic fedora or flatcap styles that pair best with all kinds of outfit combinations in the fall — from a rugged henley and bomber jacket to some sharp tailored wear. That’s the best mark of a great hat, as with any style item — versatility! And Goorin sure does craft them well, as they’re fit for any adventures you might find yourself on this season. I’m personally looking forward to breaking mine out as it gets colder in NYC, although they make several varieties fit for warmer weather. I just need to get my hands on one of the brand’s felt fedoras and I’ll be all set — I’d advise you do the same!

While I could go on about the brand, there’s a bigger upside to this post (assuming you’ve made it this far) — the chance to pick one up for yourself!

So, here are the goods — 1 lucky winner will receive one $150 gift card good for purchase at any Goorin Brothers shop (36 of ’em nationwide) or the brand’s Web site — that should cover most hats on the site!

More crucially, that winner could be you! Here’s how to enter (and hopefully win):

Head to Instagram and be sure to follow both my Instagram account and the Goorin Brothers account
Like Wednesday’s Goorin Brothers-themed photo, and in the comments, tag a friend who you think could use a Goorin Brothers gift card — and by extension, a hat! Be sure to use the hashtag #StyleAdventures, too (and lastly, be sure to do so before 9 p.m. THURSDAY — we’ve extended it by one day!).
As per usual, the winner will be notified via Instagram Wednesday evening following the conclusion of the contest.

So those are the nuts and bolts of this giveaway — good luck!

Stay stylish,

-Beau

October 19, 2015October 19, 2015 by Beau H.

Online Shopping Picks: Best Men’s Jackets for Fall

Editor’s note: Check out more Online Shopping Picks here.

When we last chatted here at the ol’ Style Guide HQ, we were talking, among other things, about great gear to carry you through fall transitions. There’s a lot that can fall under that umbrella, however — from rugged henleys to crisp blazers and tough boots. But today, we’re talking specifically about outerwear. It’s not quite the weather for a super-refined and heavier topcoat as of yet, but it’s presumably colder than situations where you might just wear a simple long-sleeve tee. And we’re looking for styles that can lend some rugged appeal to dressier outfits, as well as a bit o’ casual cool. So, we’re right in the middle. That means everything from field coats to sweater-jackets are on the table. The picks below encapsulate just a few of the many styles you might find yourself wanting to reach for before it gets incredibly cold — best read up and do some shopping now!

#1. J. Crew Wallace & Barnes Denim Bomber — $298

An in-between jacket that’s highly versatile.

$298? For a denim jacket? Wallace & Barnes definitely represents the pricier iteration of J. Crew’s classic styles, but it seems the outerwear from this particular line is always quite well-done. And this denim bomber fuses a terrific silhouette with the unique styling touches of dark denim … on your top half. It’s definitely a splurge, but it can be styled over everything from an olive henley to a nice chambray shirt. And it’ll fade over time as it gets broken in, lending a distinctive touch to a piece you can really call your own.

#2. Shinola + Golden Bear Men’s Wool Bomber Jacket — $495

An unexpected take on the bomber jacket from a brand that excels in accessories.

Is that price eye-popping? Yes. Is this an aspirational piece you might pin to a Wish List board? Indeed. But Shinola is a brand that’s really nailed their identity as far as crafting rugged-refined pieces you didn’t know you were missing until now — like the above bomber jacket. Bringing on the team at Golden Bear is perhaps the best way to make an entry into that category, as well. It’s a big-time luxury piece that updates a military silhouette, like its J. Crew brethren up top. It’d be a great jacket to reach for on those windier days closer to winter — and in the months thereafter. The most versatile thing about it is the fact that it can instantly elevate any outfit, from jeans and wingtip boots to some slim corduroys.

#3. Old Navy Quilted Bomber Jacket — $54.94

Simple style at a super-affordable price.

Now that cost above is more like it, right? Old Navy has been quietly upping their style credibility these past few years, and they’ve even outsold their loftier counterparts at Banana Republic and the like (witness their president leaving for Ralph Lauren as proof of this evolution). This bomber is a nice example of how they’ve made some waves. It’s not a piece that’ll turn a crazy amount of heads, but it’s affordably priced, versatile and able to handle both rains and fall breezes; the trickiest part about it is that black color, which is less versatile than navy or grey. But if worn casually, it should still fit right in over a henley and some brown chukka boots.

#4. Land’s End Quilted Shirt-Jacket — $89.99

Two shades of blue plus some unique details make this a great go-between.

Land’s End is another brand that, much like Old Navy, has worked hard as of late to bolster its credibility in the style space. This quilted shirt-jacket is but one of the unexpected ways in which they’re making that effort. It’s a unique piece that’s not quite a full-on jacket, but should still do well layered over everything from a henley (that’s a style suggestion that won’t quit!) to another chambray shirt. Pair this one with some slim chinos for a transitional look and see how it suits you.

#5. Combatant Gentleman Wool Club Jacket — $120

A moto-inspired style done up in a versatile color.

For a brand that’s normally known for its ridiculously affordable suits and trim blazers, Combatant Gentleman has done a nice job expanding into other product categories. And as far as fall style goes, this wool jacket certainly fits the bill. Like the Old Navy piece above, it’s not a style that’s going to turn an incredible amount of heads, but the color is versatile, the fit looks to be trim and it seems to be a nicely functional piece of outerwear. That dark navy color makes it quite sleek, as well.

Putting together this list was definitely a tricky ordeal, as so many brands have really looked to their fall outerwear to set themselves apart. J. Crew Factory, with its Utility Jacket, has certainly done a nice job filling a budget niche. And the entire outerwear collection at Bonobos has some stunning pieces — pricey, but stunning. Be sure to pick up one of these styles now to bridge that gap — and head to this piece on transitional fall style to get a look at how to wear ’em.

Stay stylish and thanks, as always, for reading.

-Beau

October 17, 2015October 16, 2015 by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: GREATS Brand Royale Court

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.

An updated take on the classic high-top.

If the brand name above looks a little familiar, that’s understandable. GREATS is a brand that has been featured numerous times here on The Style Guide, and with great reason, as it were. The Brooklyn-based brand is doing things the right way, making high-quality sneakers in a variety of silhouettes at affordable prices. The fact that premium materials and construction to rival that of dress shoes are incorporated into each pair is a definite bonus, too. And the product offering seems to grow each week, as the relatively new GREATS Royale Court release can attest. It joins a lineup that includes the lux Leather Wooster Slip-on and low-profile offerings like the Wilson and the Rosen. Thankfully, there’s really no better time to rock a high-top sneaker than the fall — the cooler temperatures and crisp breezes necessitate footwear that’s functional and stylish, but not as rugged as winter boots.

The Royale Court is also available in a crisp Honey Wheat color, also ideal for fall.

And the Royale Court gets a lot of the details you should look for in a high-top sneaker. That means shying away from athletic sneakers and other kicks you might rock at the gym, and instead looking for something exactly like this GREATS pair. They’re retro without going too over the top, and the matte Graphite color (one of four shades, including a nice red Plum)) helps keep things toned down, although the Honey Wheat offering plays off one of the bigger fall color trends, camel. This pair is pricier than a pair of classic Vans or any of a number of essential sneakers you should own, but you definitely get great quality based on my past experiences with the brand. This particular pair is fully lined in veg tan calf skin and features a premium leather upper, too. In the right color, they’re a set of kicks you could rock with some streamlined dark denim and a herringbone blazer for a high-low Casual Friday — and yet, they’d work just as well with some cargo trousers and a rugged henley. And in that neutral color above and with those quality materials, they’re a pair you should feel free to try out anytime, anywhere.

Would you purchase these high-top sneakers? How would you style them?

October 16, 2015October 15, 2015 by Beau H.

The Friday Read: CMJ, Ralph Lauren and Long-Sleeve Polos

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.

How is October treating you so far? Well, I hope? I had quite the (unexpectedly) busy week this week as a result of the annual College Music Journal Showcase that’s rolling through Brooklyn and Manhattan. I’ve been lucky enough to both see and spend some time with excellent Brooklyn-based band Mainland (openers for Atlas Genius earlier this fall) as part of my day job — increasingly, becoming a night job — repping Timberland Boots. These guys are worth a listen if you dig The Strokes and bands of that nature, and they’ll be rocking Timberland gear in the coming months to boot! I also had the chance to connect with the team behind Elohim, also fans of Timberland as luck would have it. She churns out great vibes and a super-cool audio-visual experience — look it up! To cap off a busy week, it’s also the weekend of the famed and much-hyped Michigan-Michigan State football game — should be quite exciting all-around. But enough about all that for now. Get a look at the best of the week in men’s style and beyond, below.

As you work more transitional style into your fall wardrobe, this piece could be worth a read — GQ breaks down the dressier long-sleeve polo you should incorporate into your closet.
Get Kempt toasts the man of the hour on his birthday, Mr. Ralph Lauren.
My friends at VOUCH Mag cover off on the three travel journals you should own to bolster your style game in transport.
Unbelievable Read of the Week: Switching things up from the regular Long Read this week, a writer at Noisey regales the Internet with the tale of how he tried sell a bag of air — yes, air — from Williamsburg for $20,000 on eBay.

Get more #menswear below:

I got the lowdown on the Global Citizen Exchange, a really worthwhile venture being undertaken by the great folks at Apolis in my latest VOUCH Mag piece.
If you find yourself in the market for a tech-savvy smartwatch, learn all about BLOCKS — the world’s first customizable smartwatch — in my most recent GearHungry post.

October 14, 2015May 3, 2021 by Beau H.

The Product Review: Thursday Boot Company Roughout Captain Boot

Editor’s note: Click on the following link to read my Chocolate Suede Scout Chukka review, also from Thursday Boot Company. Click here to see other men’s shopping picks for the best leather boots for men, too.

Are you ready for fall? Black suede bomber by Timberland. Slim dark denim by Mott & Bow. Glasses by Warby Parker. Boots by Thursday Boots.

News flash, news flash — it’s now mid-October. Quick, what do you have on your feet? If you’re anything like me, as soon as the temperatures dip, you reach for best leather boots for men The best pairs of men’s boots move seamlessly from being styled with staples like slim dark denim and a long-sleeve henley to sharp blazers and even, say, navy trousers. In short, the best pairs are like the Roughout Captain Boot from Thursday Boot Company. Based in New York City, this relatively small, bootstrapped operation (ha!) has quickly gained traction in the men’s style community for offering something that not a lot of other companies can boast — relatively affordable boots in multiple styles and colors, with some sharp new releases adding a stylistic edge to the brand’s offerings. In fact, you might recognize this pair from a recent Style Pick of the Week!

Styling a pair of roughout boots with some rugged black denim. Jeans by American Apparel.

Styling a pair of roughout boots with some rugged black denim. The flat wax laces make this pair more versatile than others. Jeans by American Apparel.

At any rate, the brand’s popular Kickstarter (which launched just last October and netted the young company nearly $300,000) has definitely helped them deliver on the campaign’s promise. And given that its focus is laid out right in the company name, boots are (as one would expect) a strong point for the brand. I reached out to Nolan Walsh, Thursday Boot Company co-founder, earlier this year and they were kind enough to send me this pair for review (and inclusion in other features, of course).

The first thing that catches your eye about the Captain Boot is that captoe silhouette — it’s got more than shades of a Red Wing Iron Ranger, yet the price is lower and the silhouette is slimmer and more refined. That’s a very good thing given that boots can quickly become a go-to footwear choice when the weather turns chilly or snowy — so versatility is key. The stitching is also a little toned down compared to the Red Wing Heritage Iron Ranger, making it easier to dress them up a little bit. The slimmer silhouette also makes it easier to wear these leather boots with slimmer jeans, as you can see here. And the flat wax laces also give the boot less of a workman-vibe and more of a refined ease. Again, these are all features that separate it from similar boots while also making it one versatile pair. I found the boots to be more than wearable in warmer temperatures though. Still looking for the best pair of boots for men right now? I’ve got you covered.

The profile of the Roughout Captain Boot is slimmer than competitors’ offerings. Patterned socks by Richer Poorer.

In fact, I chose to pair them with slim black American Apparel denim, a white T-shirt via RibbedTee and a well-worn American Apparel denim jacket, and I was more than comfortable trekking through Brooklyn for a night of adventures. They’re not a particularly heavy pair of boots, which lends itself to more wearability — and an easier walk — than thicker, clunkier pairs. They’re still sturdy and should do well in adverse weather thanks to the Goodyear-welted sole (a defining characteristic of other excellent, but more expensive boots — like the Wolverine 1000 Mile line). The EVA comfort strip likely has something to do with the comfort factor, too. The leather interior lining definitely makes it easy to slip in and out of these boots — the roughout leather is by its very nature, thicker than suede yet softer and easier to break in than, say, a pair of Horween leather boots. If the roughout leather isn’t your thing though, there are plenty of other leather boot options, including the sleek President Boot from Thursday Boots.

A studded rubber outsole gives these boots some grip.

A studded rubber outsole gives these boots a heck of a lot of grip.

But these ones might be the most durable of the lot. Adding to the functional-yet-stylish vibe of the Roughout Captain Boot is the studded rubber outsole — as you can see from some of these photos, that sole is thick and grippy. It should more than handle slippery streets come the colder parts of fall & winter. So that means they’ll likely see use in all kinds of weather — and Thursday Boots has you covered there as far as leather care accessories goes. Cleaning material like this often comes down to having a nice boot brush, along with some occasional spot cleaning. This pair will definitely be getting that treatment as we move through the fall, as will the rest of my favorite boots.

As to the presentation of the boots themselves, they’re presented in a black box branded with the Thursday Boots logo, and the box is almost as substantial as the boots. So far, they’ve held up quite well given some weekend wear in hotter temperatures — I never can resist putting on a great boot! The roughout leather is thick but surprisingly soft and pliable — it’s not too hard to put these boots on or slip them off. They also lace up nice and tight, but not so tight as to prove suffocating with a pair of thick socks on. And so far, they’ve presented great styling potential — they’ll definitely work with medium grey chinos and a navy blazer in moderate weather, and they’ll definitely be up to the task in colder temperatures alongside dark denim and a crewneck sweater. I wouldn’t hesitate, either, to pair them with a high-low combo like a denim jacket, knit tie and some grey suit trousers.

Seeing how essential a terrific pair of boots can be for the fall and winter months, the price (which beats out some similar-looking competitors) is worth the investment up front. Although they don’t often run sales, it’s still worth it right now to put down some cash up front — so you can put those boots on your feet.

Let me know — do you have any experience with Thursday Boots? How would you style this pair? Again, don’t sleep on the style and versatility of the best men’s boots on the market right now.

October 12, 2015October 12, 2015 by Beau H.

What To Wear Today: Transitional Fall Style

Editor’s note: For more posts covering #WTWT (What to Wear Today), click here.

Are you read for fall? Black suede bomber by Timberland. Slim dark denim by Mott & Bow. Glasses by Warby Parker. Boots by Thursday Boots.

There’s something in the air, isn’t there? A hint of a crisp breeze, maybe a rustle of leaves on the ground — yes? If you responded reasonably to either of these questions, then this is the blog post for you today on The Style Guide. The time between the often-oppressive heat of summer and the first snowfall can (depending on where you live) be rather long, or rather short. Either way, you need gear to get from point A to point B without continually relying on that stash of summer shorts and T-shirts. And given that fall is perhaps the best season for menswear, this is a time to fully embrace the transitional temperatures.

The ideal transitional outfit. Henley by Pistol Lake. Slim dark denim by Mott & Bow. Cotton rugby stripe socks by American Trench. Winston Herringbone watch by KOMONO. Boots by Thursday Boots.

The biggest key in making that transition comes in taking items you’d wear throughout the rest of the year — like a great henley — and repurposing those pieces alongside fall-appropriate textures (and colors, too). Take, for example, the short-sleeve henley you’d wear through the summer. Throw some long sleeves on that bad boy, look for a piece that’s been garment-dyed or incorporates some slight marled texture (Todd Snyder offers a pricey take on this variety) and you’re good to go in terms of casual weekend layering. It also does just fine underneath a sportier crewneck sweatshirt — budget retailers like Old Navy provide a great take on this menswear staple. Of course, no great henley would be complete without that essential fall layer — a terrific bomber jacket (Editor’s note: Look for a full rundown on key jackets for the season next week). Know that these pieces also work for the office, too — you can sub in a rugged chambray shirt and fit right in depending on your office environment.

Of course, if you prefer a lighter top layer, a merino wool cardigan from the likes of JACHS NY (as discussed here) could do just fine, too. Heck, any of the sweaters discussed on this blog last week could work on their own if the temperatures aren’t too biting. And a trusty denim jacket is also always a solid piece to bridge that seasonal gap. But trying to push the envelope (within the reason) is what we’re all about. So if you haven’t given a great bomber jacket a look yet, this fall would be an excellent time to do so. The best bomber jackets are cut slim, with high armholes, relatively trim sleeves and a decently tailored fit through the body — essentially, just as your favorite fall blazer. There are a variety of fabrics and various takes on the bomber, all stemming from either military or athletic styles, but a crisp, fall-appropriate color (like the inky black seen above) and classic detailing never fails — particularly when it comes to this navy suede J. Crew bomber jacket.

A pricey but undoubtedly sleek take on the bomber jacket via J. Crew.

Cheaper options, like H&M’s Wool-Blend Pilot Jacket, are absolutely on the market, but you lose the unique texture of suede. And if you do go the suede route, paying a premium for higher quality is recommended. In fact, J. Crew appears to have that corner of the market covered with this buttoned suede bomber, too. Whichever route you do decide to take, it’s worth noting that any of the styles mentioned above could bring a sharp sportswear edge to something as dressy as a white Oxford, navy knit tie and grey chinos. And the nice thing about a classic jacket is that a quality piece in a neutral color will enhance any other classic staples you decide to stick with — say, that ever-reliable pair of dark denim you should have handy.

Before you drop lots of cash on a thick pair of selvedge denim, it’s worth exploring lower-priced retailers like Uniqlo and Old Navy for classic, well-fitting selvedge though. Mott & Bow’s Slim or Skinny denim offers a different take on the style, too — their jeans are built with a nice bit of stretch for lots of comfort and mobility. In the spirit of jeans that’ll take a beating however, investing in a pricier (yet incredibly high-quality) pair from a retailer like Billy Reid is definitely an option, too. That same pair of dark denim can move seamlessly from the office to the bar when paired with crisp fall essentials — like that chambray shirt or that henley (if your office leans casual or creative). Perhaps the one thing that can really make or break a seasonal outfit is footwear, though. Fall is the optimal time to break out those boots from storage — and the options are numerous if you start out with a solid base (for example, a navy bomber jacket).

Get the most out of your transitional style with some tan suede boots. Pair by Thursday Boots. Patterned socks by Richer Poorer. Slim black jeans by American Apparel.

Get the most out of your transitional style with a grippy pair of tan suede boots. Pictured option by Thursday Boots. Patterned socks by Richer Poorer. Slim black jeans by American Apparel.

With, for example, a navy jacket, a great leather chukka boot is going to be an exceptionally versatile pick — although it all comes down to that jacket, as some might be against pairing a brown leather boot with a black suede jacket, or vice versa. Ultimately though, if the look is casual enough and the occasion calls for it — perhaps out at the bar with friends — that’s one rule it’s OK to break. And some rugged black moc-toe boots as pictured earlier in this post can lend a rugged vibe to an outfit. To avoid any potential pitfalls though, an in-between tan suede captoe boot (like that pair above from Thursday Boots) can really work wonders when it comes time to pull an outfit together. Don’t sleep on the brand’s new Chelsea boots, either. The tan suede matches well with black & brown leather belts, and although it gets a little close in the color wheel to a brown leather jacket, it’s a reliable option that works in a pinch with multiple outfits. And on the boot front, that’s perhaps one place it’s OK to skimp a bit if you throw down some cash on a great bomber jacket (case in point: H&M is even making a dark beige desert boot this season).

Given that multiple textures and potentially even variations on suede are incorporated into this look, playing it simple & classic on the #WatchGame front is advised. A stainless steel dive watch is a style essential that won’t fail you in any situation, be it dressy or casual, and brands like Invicta (as any reader of this site will know!) churn out affordable, reliable dive watches in bunches. By starting out with a neutral base, like a stylish and sleek bomber jacket, you give yourself leeway to work in other rugged-refined items for ensembles that can work in multiple situations, be it in the classroom, trekking through campus or heading out to your local watering hole. And no matter the situation, mixing and matching a few key pieces from the other three seasons should carry you well through this one.

How do you dress to transition through fall? What styles are you looking forward to bringing back out of your closet?

October 10, 2015October 8, 2015 by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Thursday Boots Roughout Captain Boot

Fit for trekking through all terrains, the Roughout Captain Boot is this week’s Style Pick. Photo courtesy of Thursday Boots.

If you’re just joining us for the weekly Style Pick series here on The Style Guide, welcome! And welcome back if you’ve been around these parts before. Last week, we (and by we, I mean myself) covered a nice transitional cardigan to carry you into the chillier temps of fall. And this week, we’re tackling the boots you’ll need to pair with said cardigan (or sweater, or blazer, or henley). As that weather starts to change, more and more of us will find ourselves reaching for something more substantial, so now’s as good a time as any to hook up a pair. And when it comes to brands to look for, Thursday Boots has done some serious damage in the closets of stylish guys across the past year or so, ever since the brand launched on Kickstarter last fall. (Editor’s note: Stay tuned for more on these guys next week!). And that praise isn’t without reason. The brand is making some nice moves in the mid-to-high-priced boot market, and the Roughout Captain Boot nails that category right on the head. Of course, their new releases — like the Duke Chelsea Boot — are worth a look, too.

But one way to style your Thursday Boots. Full review coming next week. Black slim jeans by American Apparel. Patterned socks by Richer Poorer.

But onto the Captain Boot. A pairr like this can work as in the photo at the top — alongside standard yet classic dark denim — or anchoring some slim grey wool trousers.The great thing about them is that if you have already have a pair of highly durable leather boots and are looking to add some textural variety to your footwear closet, these would be the way to go. Conversely, if you’re looking to test the waters but can’t afford to pony up for something pricier (like Huckberry’s new collaboration boot with Rancourt), this is a boot that offers slightly similar looks for a substantial amount less. And with a grippy rubber outsole and some solid additional touches like flat wax laces, Thursday Boots has crafted a pair that manages to stay sleek and functional at the same time. They’re worth a second look — and if you swing back by this blog next Wednesday, you’ll get just that!

Are you familiar with Thursday Boots? How do you think they compare to their competitors?

October 9, 2015October 9, 2015 by Beau H.

The Friday Read: Christophe Lemaire, P.F. Flyers and Rancourt

So I’ve spent most of the past week recovering from a whirlwind (fun, but whirlwind!) trip to Los Angeles, which featured great beer, nice menswear shopping and some stellar food, too. And it’s a doubly exciting weekend this go-round — I’m happy to welcome my mom and her friends into NYC (Hi, Mom!) to show them both some nice attractions in Manhattan and closer to home, Brooklyn’s best beer haunts — among other standout locations. And it’s starting to feel just a bit more like my favorite time of year, fall — good thing you’ve got your fall sweater game on lock, yeah? It’s also a nice time to plan out trips for the rest of the year — are you taking any exciting vacations? I’m personally excited to swing back through my home state of Michigan in a few weeks’ time. Let me know in the comments what your fall plans are! But before you skim to the bottom, know that the good stuff is right in front of you. Let’s hop to it!

GQ’s British brethren recap all of the stellar accessories that James Bond will rock in SPECTRE — and it’s quite the rundown of expensive, drool-worthy brands.
Maxim asks, bluntly, who is Christophe Lemaire and why did his collaboration with Uniqlo sell out so quickly?
If you’re a sneakerhead, this one’s for you: Selectism covers P.F. Flyers’ latest collaboration, a set of vintage-inspired duck canvas sneakers done up in partnership with menswear emporium Brooklyn Circus.
Style Read of the Week: Forgive me if your eyeballs pop out when reading this next one — the New York Times examines the curious case of the Greubel Forsey Quadruple Tourbillion, an $815,000 watch. Yes. That name. But also: $815,000.

Get more from the menswear world by checking out the below!

Feast your eyes on my newest GearHungry post, which covers the latest boot release from Rancourt — a special Chromexcel leather pair produced in collaboration with menswear goods retailer Huckberry — they’re something!
Learn everything you need to know about an up-and-coming menswear retailer doing great things out West — if you haven’t heard of STAG Provisions, you’ll (hopefully) be intrigued by my latest VOUCH Mag piece.

October 7, 2015October 9, 2015 by Beau H.

Online Shopping Picks: Best Men’s Fall and Winter Sweaters

Editor’s note: For more Online Shopping Picks than your credit card can possibly handle, click here.

Just one sweater style you could throw on this season. Cardigan & shirt by Frank & Oak. Glasses by Warby Parker.

It seems we’ve had a bevy of Online Shopping Picks posts on this site in the past few weeks, simply because there’s so much standout fall product cramming store (and digital) shelves now. And, transitioning from the hot days of summer into the cooler days of fall & winter can happen rather suddenly — case in point: It was sunny and about 70 degrees in Brooklyn not too long ago, and now I’m fighting off the chilly fall rain; time to stock up on fall gear, and quick. So picking up a standout sweater or two would be a wise move. This latest Online Shopping Picks doesn’t focus on one style, like V-neck sweaters, and it doesn’t necessarily make the distinction between sweaters you might want to dress up and ones you want to dress down — although a V-neck sweater can certainly do both, as I noted in this throwback Effortless Gent post. The picks below, on the other hand, run the gamut of styles, brands and price points, all while bringing good versatility — so hopefully, you find one (or two, or heck, three) options that catch your fancy. And for a complete sweater hierarchy, head to Dappered in the meantime. Let me know if I missed any stellar selections in the comments below!

#1. Uniqlo Cotton-Cashmere V-neck Sweater — $29.90

A classic color and a can’t-beat-it price.

As with most Uniqlo products, it seems there might not be a better value for a sweater on the market in terms of price and quality than this V-neck sweater (although a budget brand like J. Crew Factory is also worth a look). But there are certainly some positives to this Uniqlo number aside from the price. It features a fit that’s likely quite slim, and the cotton-cashmere fabric should actually have a hint of stretch to it. It’s also available in a plethora of colors (every option but those Orange or Light Green picks should do very well this fall). And the price simply can’t be beat!

#2. H&M Wool-Blend Sweater — $19.90

Two bold chest stripes and a deep navy color helped this sweater land at No. 2 on this list.

Have you caught wind yet of the Fall 2015 version of David Beckham’s Modern Essentials collection for H&M? If the product is anything like the spring offering, it should be a well-curated collection of both tailored and casual wear with a continental edge. And that wool-blend sweater just might be the best of the bunch. It’s a got a noir-ish vibe to it thanks to the dark navy color, and the chest stripe provides enough contrast that it should still pair well with dark blue denim. A chest stripe is always a nice touch on a sweater, as it can accentuate your build. And it’s the kind of piece that be paired with something as casual as a chambray jogger or as dressy as some light grey trousers and a white Oxford. Again, the price is an absolute highlight (although it’s best to pay close attention to how you wash it, as it could shrink – this is H&M, after all).

#3. Grayers Avalon Cardigan — $125

A shawl cardigan and soft fabric make this a nice high-low piece.

Here, we’re jumping right from affordable, versatile pieces to a chunky shawl cardigan that leans more casual in nature – and is definitely more expensive. That could turn some away from it, but this Grayers cardigan still has a lot going for it. It’s an in-between shade of grey-blue that meshes nicely with some navy trousers (as modeled by my friend Clay of Brothers & Craft on the Grayers site). It looks like it’ll be thick, warm and comfortable, too – the type of sweater to throw on for casual weekend errands or a casual Friday on the job with some dark denim (you could even throw it together with some tweed trousers and a blue Oxford for a high-low work week look). And any way you style it, a shawl cardigan is an excellent piece to convey tough, rugged style – a la everyone’s personal favorite, James Bond.

#4. Todd Snyder Classic Pocket Sweatshirt in Olive — $98

A pricey basic that remains a great investment.

This is, again, a decidedly casual sweater that won’t be for everyone – after all, it is just a crewneck sweater, yes? Well, not quite. Todd Snyder’s been pumping out reliably well-fitting, well-made updates to sportswear classics for a few years now and his crewneck sweatshirts are always a hit. They fit slim, incorporate small details like that chest pocket and come in versatile colors, like this olive option here, which will do well to dress down grey denim, wingtip boots and perhaps a chambray shirt and navy knit tie. If splurging on a crewneck sweatshirt isn’t your bag, Old Navy offers similar styles for much, much cheaper.

#5. JACHS NY Light Grey Merino Wool Cardigan — $125

This cardigan was first seen here as a Style Pick of the Week just last week, and it’s the kind of sweater to buy now, wear now and keep in your rotation through fall (and likely into winter). The merino wool is surprisingly lightweight and breathable, while that light grey color provides some good versatility (pair it with everything from navy corduroys to olive chinos). Because it’s lightweight, that’ll make it a bit more of a tricky play in winter, though. The elbow patches, on another note, are a neat styling touch that seems to have come back into play across the menswear board. The price is another matter for most of us, but maybe it’s a pre-fall splurge. Or, you could pick up a solid handful of multi-colored V-neck sweaters from a place like Uniqlo and call it good.

Sorting through such an assortment of sweaters proved fairly difficult, what with lots of brands, fabrics and styles. As always, J. Crew did an excellent job with its sweater offerings this fall, particularly this lambswool colorblock number. Brands like Old Navy and even Target’s Merona line ($8.74 per sweater!) absolutely shouldn’t be pushed off to the side, either. And if you can make the trip into a physical retail location, it’s worth it to swing through Express for a look at the brand’s V-neck sweaters, which fit slim and (when free of that lion logo) are quite comfortable & affordable when on-sale. And if you fancy yourself a sweater addict (again, *raises hand*) picking up a few of these styles will leave you well-set for this fall and winter … and the next.

Which of the above picks will you be snagging for the season? Any styles or brands that you think are worth a look?

October 5, 2015October 6, 2015 by Beau H.

Coast to coast: Capping off a weekend in Los Angeles

A casual outfit for a casual (yet busy!) L.A. weekend (picture taken outside Angel City Brewing). Rust V-neck by Pistol Lake. Dark denim by Mott & Bow. Navy sneakers by GREATS Brand. Sunglasses by Randolph Engineering. Stainless steel dive watch by Invicta.

After a rather exhausting cross-country flight, the book is closed on my trip to Los Angeles. And what a trip it was. Cramming lots into a weekend can sometimes be difficult and overwhelming to do when traveling, but I can definitely say I have a newfound appreciation for the city (even moreso than I did before), and there was zero stress in getting around; it was absolutely worth being just a bit tired today at the ole’ desk job, too. Luckily, I was able to navigate the city in style, and I found what I packed to be just enough, with a few exceptions.

A highlight of the trip was a Friday evening (or rather, a late Friday night) spent at Good Times at Davey Wayne’s, an eclectic bar styled like what can only be described as a cool, albeit 70’s-themed, house party. It’s a must-visit bar with a neat outdoor patio area and (crucially, cheap brews. I made use of my Mott & Bow denim and a United By Blue pocket T-shirt (unfortunately not line now) that transitioned smoothly from travel (along with my Grayers Russel Baseball Jacket) into a night on the town. Having versatile layers that keep you comfortable is key when traveling and making quick changes on the go, and those items served me well. I also was pleased with how my Timberland Coulter Chukka Boots held up during the transition from travel to sightseeing (although I picked up this pair through my day job, I’d recommend everyone grab a reliable pair of trusty leather chukka boots for all kinds of style situations).

Spending some more time outside Angel City Brewing before sampling some terrific beers.

As we rallied from a less-than-optimal night of sleep to watch our beloved Michigan State Spartans beat Purdue, I again turned to my Mott & Bow denim – they’re an exceptionally comfortable pair of jeans built with a nice amount of stretch. I’ve found the Skinny fit to be the ideal silhouette for the sorts of outfits I like to wear, although the brand’s Slim and Straight options appear to be just as reliable. The comfortable fit and versatile, dark color of my pair definitely served me well on the rest of our adventures through Los Angeles — it was truly awesome to be able to visit Angel City Brewery in the city’s burgeoning Arts District on Saturday in particular! I took along my Randolph Engineering sunglasses along with my ever-present Warby Parker glasses. It was only fitting to be able to take in everything while outfitted in a comfortable, soft V-neck from Los Angeles’ own Pistol Lake. Of course, the beer at Angel City was the real highlight.

A shot from inside the well-designed, enjoyable Angel City Brewery.

They have a positively massive, multi-level warehouse space built out with pleasing industrial décor, an outdoor food stand and of course, excellent beer brewed on-site. Sampling flights of delicious beer and taking in the atmosphere on a beautiful day made it worth the trek across town. It’s part of an area of Los Angeles that seems to be coming up quickly — and it’s also close to the well-designed Apolis Common Gallery. Filled up with great beer and ready to tackle the rest of the day, our adventures took us through much of the rest of downtown L.A., including Grand Park, the Grand Central Market and portions of the city’s Historic District. Viewing some of the city’s surreal architecture was quite neat — the California Department of Transportation is a distinct highlight (even for a government administration building).

The perfect shirt for a night out, and the perfect bag for cross country travel. Polka dot short-sleeve Oxford by Saturdays NYC. Stowaway Weekender Bag by Navali.

As a lot of walking was involved throughout the rest of the day and into the early part of the evening, my reliable navy suede Rosen sneakers from GREATS Brand proved the perfect sneaker both in terms of versatile style and comfort (just as I had hoped). For the larger part of the night however, I turned to my Coulter Chukka boots from Timberland, along with one of my all-time favorite shirts, a polka dot short-sleeve Oxford from Saturdays Surf NYC (as seen above). And the night was certainly an adventure — more great beer was on-tap at Sunset Beer, a Silver Lake bottle shop featuring a wide range of bottles available for purchase and consumption on-site; the draft selection included hard-to-find (in NYC) brews from heavyweights like Deschutes. Checking out nice cocktail bars like The Thirsty Crow in the trendy neighborhood was also a highlight.

The Devil’s Mess egg scramble featuring some solid sides.

And a much-needed Sunday brunch also brought us back to Silver Lake, and the delicious Millie’s Café. As you can see in the photo above, the meal was something else! Given the laidback nature of the day, I kept my outfit rather simple on Sunday, but opted (mistakenly) for shorts rather than denim — a bad move considering temperatures were breezy and in the low ’60’s! And on that note, I would definitely swap out another pair of shorts in my bag for another pair of denim or chinos. However, my Michael Bastian x Uniqlo polo proved polished enough for all the day’s adventures, including lots more walking through Silver Lake. To go with the sportier style I tried out, my Goorin Brothers vintage ballcap (back in stock in November, I’m told!), was a solid accessory to pair with my clean, minimal Daniel Wellington Classic Bristol watch throughout Sunday, in addition to the rest of the trip.

Perusing the excellent Shinola flagship. Polo by Michael Bastian x Uniqlo. Vintage ballcap by Goorin Brothers. Linen-blend shorts by Frank & Oak. Braided leather belt by Target Merona. Glasses by Warby Parker. Classic Bristol leather watch by Daniel Wellington.

In addition to brunch, our Silver Lake exploration also took us to the outstanding Shinola flagship store. The selection of watches was, as always, outstanding. And as one might expect from such a design-focused company, the layout was pleasing and the rest of the product, including fine leather goods, journal supplies and an amazing shearling bomber jacket done in collaboration with Golden Bear, was stellar. Although it wasn’t in the cards (or the budget, rather) this time, a Shinola timepiece is definitely on my wish list. Swinging through Hollywood finished up what proved to be a whirlwind trip (but closing it out with an excellent Thai coffee near my friend’s apartment was the way to go).

It was a trip that packed a ton into a short period of time, but it’s certainly one I would repeat. Navigating the city was an adventure, but not overly difficult, and covering so much ground and seeing so many different cultures and sights n such a short period of time was definitely the best way to experience the city. There are some standout, up-and-coming spots and some excellent menswear stores, too — all good things to look for when traveling if you’re like me! It may have been a quick trip this time, but I’ll definitely be back.

Ever been through Los Angeles? What’s your favorite spot in the city?

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Author / Beau H.