Style Pick of the Week: Taylor Stitch Western Shirt Jacket – A Casually Cool, Rugged Shacket

Cutting corners isn’t necessarily an option as you seek to build out your rotation of cozy, reliable winter style picks. That holds true in mostly any season, but especially if rugged men’s style essentials are the name of the game.

We’re talking brands you can trust, brands that take the ordinary and make it all that much more special, well, those are the best menswear brands to know, in my experience. And that, of course, leads us to the fine folks at Taylor Stitch, once again.

I’ve been a fan of the brand for close to a decade now, from its buttery-soft yet tough flannel shirts to its expertly cut chinos, and you can now count the Taylor Stitch Western Shirt Jacket as yet another favorite for your rotation (and mine).

Best Western shirts for men.

Crucially, the Taylor Stitch Western Shirt Jacket fuses together so many things that Taylor Stitch does well, including its ability to craft expertly cut shirts — and its ability to turn those same shirts into durable, rugged shirt jackets.

Best men's shirt jackets to buy now.

So, with the outdoor-ready Taylor Stitch Western Shirt Jacket, you get both a classically cool Western shirt and the warmth of a toasty shirt jacket, all thanks to the sherpa lining beneath its tastefully faded 100 percent cotton denim exterior.

The effect is both retro and yet of the moment, and details like side slant hip pockets elevate it above a typical Western shirt in terms of utility. Slant snap chest pockets also drive home the timeless Western flair of the aptly named Taylor Stitch Western Shirt Jacket — what’s not to love about that?

At under $200, it’s fairly priced and yet ruggedly luxurious enough to feel like a style splurge, and that’s one more thing to look forward to during the holiday season, isn’t it? If you end up layering up with this handsome Taylor Stitch shacket, let me know in the comments below. Cheers to cozy winter weekend layering, my friends!

The Friday Read: The Huckberry Holiday Gift Guide, The Maker’s Mark Winter Wheat Wonderland & The Best Sweater Polos

Huckberry Holiday Gift Guide 2024.

Welcome to another fine winter Friday here in Brooklyn (or wherever you might happen to be reading your favorite Brooklyn style blog). It’s a season of bounty, joyful thanks, delicious whiskey and even better menswear, at least in my neck of the woods — if you follow me on Instagram, you’ll see that I’ve been busy wearing my many hats in my many varied freelance writing pursuits.

One day, I might find myself writing about a limited-edition luxury cognac, the next, I might be covering a new Huckberry x Timex watch. All in a day’s work!

And as of late, those varied pursuits included a preview of a special NYC Maker’s Mark Winter Wheat Wonderland (running now for the next 10 days!) — the space is an ode to Star Hill Farms in Kentucky, plus all things Maker’s Mark, with an outstanding limited-edition menu of cocktails crafted by cocktail expert and legend Colin Field.

Bhakta Spirits review.

This week also brought with it an excellent Upper East Side evening tasting some standout Bhakta Spirits (on the heels of my February 2024 trip to see the company in Vermont). Talk about a perfect balance between rare spirits and the joy of the holiday season, yes? It all requires fortitude, but it also requires the right menswear to meet varied situations in casually rugged-yet-refined style (the way I prefer to dress, and perhaps the way you do, as well!?).

And for those instances and plenty more — especially in the holiday season — I outfit myself with menswear favorites from Huckberry. It seems there’s never a bad time to shop the incredibly well-stocked retailer, which just happens to know what guys want — and the gals on your list, too (more on this in a moment). It certainly seems like everyone on your list is covered by the Huckberry Holiday Gift Guide, in my experience.

So, here’s your reminder to cross a few prime gifts off the “Nice” list by shopping Huckberry, as I’ve been this busy season. To send you on your way into the weekend, check out a few choice reading and shopping selections below — onward!

  • Speaking of taking care of your holiday shopping — especially for your better half — I’ve got just the ticket: Over at Maxim, I wrote about the best Huckberry gifts to buy for her, whoever that “her” in your life might be. From your mother to your sister to your sister-in-law and beyond, Huckberry’s expert insight made it a delight to write about a few choice selections over at Maxim.
  • Let’s talk holiday style for a minute: Nailing the right balance between comfort and fashion is critical, as is staying ever-so-slightly on-trend without overdoing it. That means finding a middle ground, like the retro-yet-fresh sweater polo. It harkens back to the 1950s and ’60s, but you’ll still find it on red carpets today — and you’ll find out more about the style in my guide to the best sweater polos over at AskMen. Happy shopping, folks.
  • Shopping for the watch enthusiast in your life? Have plenty of spare coin to throw around? You very well might want to dive into my piece at Maxim.com covering how Omega crafted a more affordable version of the iconic Seamaster worn by James Bond. Talk about a wrist game upgrade, my friends.

Now, who’s ready for a dram of whiskey and for the weekend to start in earnest? Before we can kick things off — beer, cozy evenings by the fire, a lovely candle burning — here’s the rugged, classic flannel shirt you should be wearing this season, all courtesy of yesterday’s post on Schott NYC‘s timeless take on the style. I hope it keeps you warm this weekend and beyond, and I hope you’ll join me tomorrow for our Style Pick of the Week. Cheers to the season, my friends!

The Thursday Buy: This Schott Plaid Flannel Shirt is an All-Time Classic for the Holidays (and Beyond)

Here at your favorite Brooklyn style blog, we talk often about brands you can trust, brands you can rely on to craft some of the best men’s style essentials in virtually any situation. And at a time when the chaos of the holiday season reaches a fever pitch, shouldn’t it be dressing simply and stylishly that helps you cut through the clutter?

It might seem like a tall task, but for affairs both casually stylish and rugged, one of the best flannel shirts for men — one sold by Huckberry, no less — seems to fit the bill quite nicely.

And back to brands you can trust and rely on: Today’s featured pick comes from legendary outerwear purveyors Schott NYC, a company that continues to blend rugged moto heritage with a classic outlook, resulting in tasteful selections like the Schott Cotton Plaid Flannel Shirt.

Just your average flannel shirt, this is decidedly not — as with all things Schott, like one of the best leather moto jackets on the market (a personal favorite and an icon in its own right, at least in my experience).

Best flannel shirts for men.

It’s part of a selection of gifts from Huckberry that run the gamut, especially when it comes to buying gifts for guys who are impossible to shop for (I myself feel this way about my own taste!).

And yet, the Schott Cotton Plaid Flannel Shirt veers just slightly from the norm in terms of the best men’s flannel shirts, with details like an eye-catching plaid color scheme in a distinct combo, plus more classic flannel shirt touches, like front button chest pockets.

Schott NYC men's plaid flannel shirt review.

The Schott Cotton Plaid Flannel Shirt is modeled after iconic flannel shirts from decades past, with the sort of wear-with-anything adaptability that should pair nicely with everything from a Schott moto jacket to a more casual winter wool blazer in a solid color.

That sort of versatility makes the Schott Cotton Plaid Flannel Shirt a wise move for the guy who loves flannel shirts, rugged outdoor gear and timeless style — it’s an investment in the best, one that the well-rounded man will certainly appreciate it.

And if it tickles your fancy, then the Schott Cotton Plaid Flannel Shirt should likely become a part of your own holiday menswear wardrobe, too. Good luck out there this season, my friends.

See Now, Buy Now: This Buck Mason Tweed Blazer is a Refined Take on a Classic

Best blazers for men.

For as much as a man’s wardrobe is about the everyday workhorses — the kind of pieces we talk so often about on this Brooklyn style blog — it’s also about the occasional indulgence (within reason, of course). Take the Buck Mason Shetland Tweed Countryman Blazer — it’s got all the trappings of one of the best blazers for men, with a bit of an added modern flair that updates a classic in fine form.

It’s also a particularly stylish swerve from a traditional selection for one of the best blazers for men, of course, and that’s also never a bad thing to have in your wardrobe in the heart of the holiday season. So, why the Buck Mason Shetland Tweed Countryman Blazer, and why now?

Well, my friends, I’m glad you asked. The holidays are an ideal time to step things up a notch in terms of dressing, with a greater focus on refinement and elegance — whether hosting, visiting friends or hitting the road.

And even when paired with some of your favorite pairs of jeans, a selection like the Buck Mason Shetland Tweed Countryman Blazer exudes another level of style: It’s got a tailored but not overly tight fit, while the Italian tweed fabric and classic pattern stand out handsomely via many an occasion.

Plus, details like flap patch pockets give your new favorite blazer a sort of rarified air — an easygoing touch that makes this handsome blazer more casual, but no less ready to pair with dark grey corduroy trousers and dark brown leather wingtip boots (a Buck Mason Oxford shirt would also fit the bill nicely here, my friends).

Fittingly, the dress-up or dress-down nature of the Buck Mason Shetland Tweed Countryman Blazer gets a boost from its natural soft-shoulder design — the sort of look that makes many a made-in-Italy blazer look so elegant. And at the end of the day, the Buck Mason Shetland Tweed Countryman Blazer departs tastefully from the norm (for a price) without overdoing it – doesn’t that sound like the kind of piece that can take any holiday #OOTD from good to great, my friends?

The Tuesday Steal: Save More Than 30 Percent on this Handsome Bespoke Post Sweater

Bespoke Post Line of Trade review.

We’ve talked a lot lately here on this seasonal style blog about the best way for guys to dress for the holidays, and if you feel like you’re running out of time to shore up a few seasonal ‘fits, you’re certainly in luck.

That’s because our friends at Bespoke Post are here to save the day with some standout savings on one of the best sweaters for men, all just a few clicks away at the Bespoke Post Sale section.

As you might have guessed from the top of the page, it’s prime time for seasonal layering in all its many forms, including the chance to shake up your regular rotation of office-ready V-neck sweaters, casual crewneck sweaters and even refined-yet-rugged shawl cardigans.

The Line of Trade Bergen Birdseye Sweater does all of this and then some, retaining the versatile hallmarks of the V-neck, the eye-catching appeal of the cardigan (thanks to its birdseye pattern) and the wear-with-anything appeal of the crewneck. And crucially, it does all this while being more than 40 percent off (in select sizes) as of press time. How’s that for seasonal savings you can count on, ehh?

Billed by Line of Trade, the in-house brand at Bespoke Post, as a “modern crewneck with old-school roots,” the sweater’s cotton-blend build should make it more than adequate for comfortable layering, while the jacquard pattern boasts old-school roots.

It’s simple, subtle and stylish, as wearable underneath a waxed trucker jacket as it is on its own with an Oxford shirt underneath — Old Fashioned in hand, of course. That sounds like more than a fair way to amp up your holiday sweater rotation in style right now, my friends. Cheers to that!

See Now, Buy Now: This Classic Huckberry Beanie is One of the Best Stocking Stuffers for Guys This Year

Huckberry beanie cap.

‘Tis the season — to shop, to gift, to eat, drink, and be merry, and to avoid that last-minute holiday scramble when it comes to the best gifts for guys (or the best gifts for just about anyone on your list, for that matter).

And in the spirit of the holiday season — as with just about any other time of year — your friends (and my friends) at Huckberry come to the rescue with the best holiday gifts for guys. That list runs the gamut from stocking stuffers to winter essentials to big-ticket items, and you’ll get a look at all of ’em in the weeks ahead.

But for now, let’s get right to it on this fine Monday. If you’re in need of something quick and easy, yet stylish, highly functional and downright useful, the Huckberry Classic Cuff Beanie is the quick pick to shop right now. Heck, it’s so essential, it might be worth picking up one for yourself to stay nice and toasty in style this season.

It comes in six easy-to-style colors, from Kelly Green to a bright blue, and as Huckberry calls it, this option might just be the “quintessential winter beanie.” The oversized cuff design maximizes coverage, while the bold logo takes its cues from retro alpine designs.

Plus, it’s made with a nice and thick knit, so the Huckberry Classic Cuff Beanie packs a serious punch for under $30. It’s simple, yes, but it’s effective, it’s a crowd pleaser and it’ll look great on just about anybody. Score yours now with time to spare this season.

The Sunday Sale: Save 50 Percent on This Versatile Flint and Tinder Selvage Shirt

Can a man ever have enough stylish buttondown shirts, or rather, the sort of go-anywhere shirt that can be trusted to get the job done at a moment’s notice? The sort of shirt like the Flint and Tinder Classic Selvage Architect Shirt, the kind of wear-with-anything shirt that fuses the gap between a rugged denim shirt and a timeless Oxford shirt in a way that only Huckberry can do.

It’s a perfect example of an on-sale steal you can put to good use this holiday season and beyond, and it’s also the type of deal that doesn’t come around too often — it’s now up for grabs for 50 percent off, my friends. And as with most standout shirting and gear up for grabs at Huckberry, it’s made with plenty of thoughtful details for consistent wear and consistent style points.

You see, the Flint and Tinder Classic Selvage Architect Shirt gets its cues from timeless, trusted workshirts, with Japanese slub selvage denim craftsmanship that’s only sure to get better with age. And although the Flint and Tinder Classic Selvage Architect Shirt calls to mind an Oxford shirt, it’s built with details like reinforced elbow patches for hard-wearing, hard-working performance.

Plus, selvage detailing throughout lends it the air of a classic workwear shirt, while details like a chest pocket and pleasingly rounded collar drive home its versatility as a business casual-approved shirt. Side vent gussets give the Flint and Tinder Classic Selvage Architect Shirt even more utility and easy-to-wear mobility, and because it’s Huckberry we’re talking about, even the buttons get custom engraving from Flint and Tinder.

Oh, and yes, before we forget, the Flint and Tinder Classic Selvage Architect Shirt is yours for the taking at 50 percent off right now, my friends. How’s that for an early Christmas present, right?

Style Pick of the Week: Taylor Stitch Maritime Shirt Jacket – A Seasonal Layering Essential

Best shirt jackets for men.

When brisk winter weather rolls into town, it’s sometimes a safe bet to trust the classics, the most reliable parts of your wardrobe as far as bundling up in style is concerned. In my experience, that’s where it pays off to have a brand like Taylor Stitch close at hand, with its emphasis on Americana classics with functional roots and modern style.

That ethos certainly applies to the Taylor Stitch Maritime Shirt Jacket, a tried-and-true fan favorite from the West Coast brand that seems to get consistently better every single year. Inspired by wool overshirts trusted by New England fishermen in frigid conditions, the Taylor Stitch Maritime Shirt Jacket is a seafaring staple made modern.

This rugged men’s shirt jacket is, in fact, made all the better for bundling up on cold winter mornings or for chilly nights out at your favorite brewery, with casually rugged style top of mind. It starts with sturdy fabrication, turning the Taylor Stitch Maritime Shirt Jacket into a standalone piece of outerwear atop a thermal henley or even a fisherman sweater (which the brand also makes, naturally).

The Taylor Stitch Maritime Shirt Jacket is built with an 11-oz. 80% wool, 20% nylon twill fabric blend, with all the features you’ve come to know and love from the modern favorite retailer — including its face-framing, stylish California collar.

Details like oversized chest pockets give it true shirt-jacket utility, while the design is hardy enough to layer up in all but the most frosty conditions. The Ash Twill finish pairs nicely with other rugged workwear staples in shades ranging from tobacco to burgundy and indigo, delivering a shot of style in the process. When adverse weather strikes, opt for a reliable modern classic like the Taylor Stitch Maritime Shirt Jacket as part of your outerwear rotation — it’s a standby in my own wardrobe for a reason, my friends.

The Thursday Buy: This Aether Apparel Down Jacket is the Perfect Blend of Form and Function for Winter Style

Aether Apparel men's jackets.

The headline says it all today, my friends, as we dive deep into perfecting that tricky balance: That is, blending utility and style points in one package, with a focus on one of the best jackets for men this season.

There’s no time quite like the present, as Los Angeles-based Aether Apparel just opened up the vault for its Aether Apparel Black Friday Sale, and many key styles from the performance-minded retailer are still in stock and yours for the taking. That includes the Aether Apparel Alto Jacket, and folks, when it comes to the right blend of form and function, it’s nearly a home run for all your winter layering needs.

The retailer, now in its 15th year of making city-ready gear that also performs on the trail, touts the Aether Apparel Alto Jacket’s “streamlined design and slim-fitting cut,” flattering specs that take any jacket from merely good to being one of the best down jackets for men out there.

It’s more elevated in every way than plenty of other puffer jackets on the market, with a box-quilted design the brand says draws inspiration from English hunting jackets. Crucially, PrimaLoft Gold insulation adds a premium touch, delivering warmth without added bulk (always a tricky balance when layering up with a puffer jacket, at least in my experience).

The Aether Apparel Alto Jacket comes with helpful added features like a stand-up collar for added warmth, a zipper “hood” to keep the top zipper in place, and front side slant hip pockets to stow your everyday carry essentials. The Aether Apparel Alto Jacket is streamlined enough to wear on the trail and back into town, or to use as a travel jacket — think comfort and easy access to your valuables, rather than added bulk.

And the relatively minimal design of the Aether Apparel Alto Jacket makes it an easy pairing alongside pieces more technical — like stretch hiking pants or canvas work pants — as well as more casual, like five-pocket pants or even blue jeans.

The rich blue color is more visually appealing than the typical black seen so widely when it comes to winter jackets, too. In every way possible, from warmth to performance to style, this jacket proves it’s worth every penny — your winter wardrobe depends on it.

See Now, Buy Now: This Line of Trade Flannel Shirt is Perfect for Every Winter Pursuit

Line of Trade Summit Flannel Shirt review.

If today’s headline made you do a double take, you’re likely not alone: We’re talking all about Line of Trade, but in a different capacity than before. You very likely recognize Line of Trade from the digital shelves of NYC retailer Bespoke Post, which trumpets small businesses, stylish subscription boxes of its own, and the coolest gear for men across the board.

That focus on American classics — from slinging T-shirts and flannel shirts to selling cool-as-heck valet trays, decanters and more — led the Bespoke Post team to form Line of Trade, and it’s now all grown up, so to speak.

You see, you can score rugged, classically cool menswear online right from the brand itself, a great excuse to revamp and re-up your winter wardrobe — starting with the Line of Trade Summit Flannel Shirt. Yes indeed, it’s great a time as any to get properly acquainted with the rugged, all-American retailer.

Line of Trade menswear review.

The company believes in menswear that’s built to last, not in chasing trends, and you can see that reflected right away in products like the Line of Trade Summit Flannel Shirt, plus a full lineup of best-sellers. Those best-selling menswear essentials include items like trucker jackets, sherpa jackets, heavyweight T-shirts and even a versatile pair of officer chinos modeled after old-school military pairs.

The great news is, the richly crafted Line of Trade Summit Flannel Shirt fits right in with each of those men’s style must-haves, especially in the cold climes of winter. The Line of Trade Summit Flannel Shirt, made from an exclusive pattern in super-soft, 100 percent cotton flannel, is a prized piece in my own wardrobe.

In one of several richly crafted patterns and colors, it’s got the ability to be worn on its own underneath a soft-shouldered blazer, or else atop a thermal henley. That pairing works well alongside, say, one of the brand’s waxed trucker jackets. It’s got a pleasing light weight to it — this isn’t a shirt jacket, but a flannel shirt you can layer comfortably beneath a hearty top layer.

A left chest patch pocket keeps things classic, while the length is perfect to wear untucked alongside your favorite pair of blue jeans (as I often do). If you’ve been hunting for a new favorite flannel shirt, one you can layer casually or dress up ever so slightly, and one that you can buy in bulk, so to speak, then I can confidently say the Line of Trade Summit Flannel Shirt is your best bet this week.