Category / Gift Guides

by Beau H.

The Friday Find: Give the Gift of Great Scent This Season with the All-American Maker Candle Club

As we’ve talked about lately on this Brooklyn style blog, the race is on to find the best gifts for men, and especially the best gifts for the guy who’s hard to buy for this season (and really, at any time of year). It’s crunch time, so to speak, but fear not — for if you love truly all-American style, a love of quality and heritage, and some great scent quality as you scour the market for the best home goods for guys, you’re very much in luck as we unearth another gem of a selection during today’s Friday Find.

Just recently, we talked about my good friends at All-American Maker, who craft incredibly high-quality, deeply scented beard balm, hand and body balm, leather conditioner and everyday carry essentials aplenty (all in the good ole U.S. of A, of course).

It gets even better: While I’ve become a huge new fan of standout beard balm from All-American Maker, there’s something else to keep an eye on — and to gift when the rubber meets the road (as in, right now, less than a week before Christmas).

Learn more and shop USA-made goods at All-American Maker

Yes sir, if you know a fellow who seemingly has everything, who values the cut of their flannel shirt and the design of their leather boots as well as the way his home office or den smells (like rich mahogany, I’d wager?), then the All-American Maker Candle Club is going to prove a life-saving and much-appreciated Christmas gift for guys.

And as someone who keeps a candle burning quite frequently around his Brooklyn apartment (through the fall and winter, but even into spring and summer), something like this candle club is an ingenious and plenty fun idea. Billed as a “subscription service for people who love candles,” the All-American Maker Candle Club ships out a new candle at random every month, with the company’s line of scents ever expanding.

All-American Maker Candle Club review.

It comes complete with a handy and playful log book to track your favorites and your burn time, and it could also include candles that the USA-made company makes for clients under its private label business. For the gentleman who has almost everything, and for the guy who loves a warmly scented space this holiday season (and beyond), I’d say the All-American Maker Candle Club is a last-minute slam dunk of a purchase.

by Beau H.

See Now, Buy Now: This Handsome Leather Duffle Bag from Unmarked and Huckberry Is Perfect for All Your Winter Travel

For as much as we talk about the best men’s style essentials and top gear for the modern man, it’s worth putting just as much care and thought into how you ensure those essentials stay in top-notch shape and perform their very best from point A to point B.

So, rather than hauling your favorite leather boots and one of the best chambray shirts –among other holiday style must-haves — in just any old bag, why not level up a touch this season with one of the best weekender bags for men?

Add in the fact that it’s sourced and sold by one of your favorite online retailers — the good folks at Huckberry — and we’re looking at a certified winner when it comes to some of the best travel gear for guys.

And as a matter of fact, there’s a great reason the Unmarked Leather Weekender Bag is even listed among Huckberry’s Gifts for the Guy Who Has It All — it’s just that cool, stylish, dependable and forward-thinking in matters of craft and heritage. How about that, ehh? And if you — or the impossible-to-shop-for guy on your list — hasn’t heard from Unmarked, holiday gifting can present a prime opportunity to either refresh your own leather goods rotation or help a trusted, stylish fellow in your life level things up considerably.

The Unmarked Leather Weekender Bag sold by Huckberry features a rich Shedron shade of leather in an exclusive Western pattern that’s all the rage (making it worth its price tag of $400, in my experience — not a bad deal for a weekender bag you can reliably take across the country and globe as it develops better patina with age. The Unmarked Leather Weekender Bag boasts glazed pull-up tanned leather and vegetable-tanned strips for ornate detailing and richly crafted, rugged quality — its brass hardware is made in America, while the hard-working yet stylish Unmarked Leather Weekender Bag features reinforced rivets and a gold-tone brass zipper.

Shop the best travel gear and more at Huckberry

And another thing: Because you’re perhaps wondering what exactly you can fit in the Unmarked Leather Weekender Bag, note that its dimensions clock in at 17” x 11½” x 9”. That should give you enough space for a weekend away, and perhaps even enough space to pack a durable pair of Unmarked’s impeccably designed leather boots.

For the guy who values traveling in style, with goods built to last (even if you just score it for yourself!), this fashionable leather weekender bag is the right move.

by Beau H.

The Tuesday Steal: Shinola Is Offering Savings of At Least 20 Percent On the Best Watches and Accessories for Men

Shinola men's watch review.

If you’ve been keeping up with this Brooklyn style blog, as I’ve been saying for several weeks now, you know that it’s prime time for scoring savings on tried-and-true favorites — as well as top-notch gear selections you might not normally find at a discount.

And so it goes when it comes to shopping for one of the best watches for men: A wristwatch these days is a purposeful, fashionable and stylish investment, even if you’re not dropping thousands on a Rolex or an Omega (or even a pre-owned luxury watch). That’s where Shinola, with its blend of Art Deco inspiration and modern performance, makes its case to join your watch rotation, with plentiful options below $1,000 and even $750 these days.

There are options aplenty that lean more towards the entry-level market, and I’d put Detroit-based Shinola firmly in that category — a step up from even the most premium Timex models (for instance) and nicely balanced between accessible, well-made and tastefully refined. I’m also a fan of the excellent Shinola Hotel and the company’s home goods offerings, but that’s neither here nor there at the moment, ehh?

Find out more now at Shinola

As is so often the case with Shinola men’s watches (and other producers), there’s a debate between quartz and automatic/mechanical watches (Shinola makes both!).

Take your pick as to whether you prefer a durable battery or something with more craft, because, again, Shinola does both (and has built out its brand focus over the years into more premium assembled watches). You can also shop handsome leather goods, stylish travel bags and even accessories like candles and matches at Shinola — talk about fun for the whole family, yes?

We’ll leave the quartz-versus-automatic debate to watch forums, but for now, let’s dial in (pun intended!) on the task at hand: Shinola is offering at least 20 percent off your purchase of stylish watches and men’s accessories sitewide, but buyer beware: That promo only runs through the end of the day today!

To get more specific: You can save $100 when you spend $500 at Shinola, on up to savings of $500 on your purchase of $2,000. For a watchmaker that doesn’t run sales all that frequently, it’s worth checking out and stocking up ahead of the holidays — on gifts for the watch lover, gifts for the lover of fine leather goods, and even the person on your list who loves a well-made blanket or a richly crafted candle. At Shinola, the possibilities are limitless (or, nearly limitless) and well beyond the world of watches, but these savings only run through today. Shop accordingly, my friends — cheers!

by Beau H.

The Thursday Buy: Upgrade Your Space with this Tasteful Ranger Station Candle This Season

In the same way that you put careful thought into your ensemble, the way you dress from the ground up with the best boots for men or the right Oxford shirt or pair of jeans, you can (and should!) put the same care and thought into your living space. That can be something as simple as opting in when it comes to a seasonal scent upgrade with one of the best candles for men, a move that makes your space all the more richly crafted, fragrant and even stylish.

And in my experience, there are few fragrance companies doing it better than Ranger Station, the Nashville-based fragrance house with an emphasis on scents that are at once rugged and refined, complete with collaborations with the likes of rising star Noah Kahan and other guitar-driven luminaries.

Find out more now and shop at Ranger Station

It’s an altogether wonderful approach that includes everything from candles to a line of excellent colognes, and selections like the Ranger Station Balsam Fir Candle can certainly bring a heck of a lot to your living room or den this season. A word to the wise: Don’t sleep on the company’s excellent lineup of colognes, with notes of leather, pine an even a whiskey-forward Old Fashioned fragrance on the menu.

What’s more, the Nashville-based company lives up to its rugged roots aplenty, with Ranger Station also offering a mighty useful fragrance quiz to expertly find and curate your signature scent.

The Ranger Station Balsam Fir Candle touches on seasonal classics in its scent notes, including balsam, pine sap and juniper, making for a truly elevated fragrance experience designed to make any room smell like a Christmas tree (or at least, it’ll have things smelling like the heart of the season itself, and that’s never a bad thing, is it?).

It doesn’t hurt that candle selections (and more!) from Ranger Station feature more than 30 hours of burn time, plus a hand-poured production process — and each Ranger Station candle comes complete with a stylish storage box and a crisp, often-playful logo on the side. To light up a candle from Ranger Station is a highly pleasing experience, one you should enjoy early and often this holiday season.

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: The Best Holiday Gifts from Bespoke Post, the Best Winter Boot Socks & Winter’s Best Parkas

Best holiday gifts from Bespoke Post.

Well, folks, we’ve made it: The final push before Christmas and a great last chance to stock up on the best men’s holiday gifts from some of your favorite online retailers. Perhaps by now, you’re all stocked up on men’s gifts from Bespoke Post and sites like Huckberry, but consider the spread above (from Bespoke Post!) a reminder to cross off those last few names on your list.

Whether that person loves rugged sweaters, sleek watches, a durable flask or other everyday carry essentials, well, you know that if you read the blog, Bespoke Post has what you need (and that’s simply my own personal endorsement).

Learn more and shop now at Bespoke Post

Yes indeed, Bespoke Post is one of my go-to spots for holiday gift-giving, and again, it should prove much the same in your neck of the woods. As I wrap up my shopping (and start on wrapping!), I’ll be spending some much-needed time with family in Florida, relaxing, taking in the sunshine and enjoying a cold local beer from Point Ybel Brewing, per tradition.

What’s on your holiday slate? Here are a few choice reads to get you in the holiday spirit before Christmas Day dawns.

  • If you’ve been dealing with frigid winter weather, then here’s an option sure to help you sort things out: Head over to Maxim to check out my latest menswear guide, this one on the best parkas for winter. From purely functional to super-luxe, winter weather won’t stand in your way this season.
  • Right here on the blog, I covered a crucial, yet sometimes overlooked, style need — the need to step into the best boot socks for winter before you can put on a pair of your favorite leather boots. So, I took a deeper dive into WORN Brand Socks, a company I’ve been testing out back in Brooklyn these past few weeks — trust me, your feet will certainly thank you.
  • Allow me to make one last men’s style pick from Bespoke Post: Earlier this week, I wrote about how to save 30 percent on one of the best denim shirts from the famed NYC retailer, and this deal is still sticking around (just in time for rugged winter looks, yessir).

In the spirit of letting you get on with your holiday festivities, shopping, wrapping and imbibing, I’m closing up shop on today’s post. Hopefully, you found some style inspiration from the selections above. If not, well, we’ll be back here tomorrow and Sunday for my Style Pick of the Week, as well as some Christmas Eve savings via the Sunday Sale. In the meantime, thanks as ever for reading and stay stylish!

by Beau H.

The Sunday Sale: Save More Than 50 Percent On these Stylish Huckberry Sunglasses for Labor Day Weekend

Best sunglasses for men.

It’s one thing to find some stylish men’s accessories you can wear on the daily, like the right pair of sunglasses or a new addition to your everyday carry. It’s another thing entirely to be able to score one of the best menswear deals in the process of ramping up your EDC, and that’s where the Huckberry Sale section is going to be your new best friend (in matters of style and gear) this Labor Day weekend.

Learn more and shop at Huckberry

We’ve talked plenty on this blog (including in my Friday post!) about using the opportunities presented to you in a timely fashion when it comes down to saving on menswear essentials — and again, the Huckberry Sale is a prime example of striking while the iron is hot. There are usually deals aplenty to be had at any time of the year, but this Labor Day weekend deal from Huckberry is particularly special.

You’re now getting an additional 15 percent off sale items, which brings a pair of stylish men’s sunglasses like the Walden Eyewear Pinion Sunglasses down below $60.

Huckberry sunglasses for men.

For those keeping score at home, that means you’re saving more than 50 percent on your new favorite sunglasses. The Walden Eyewear line was introduced last fall at Huckberry, with styles modeled after classic frames (this pair pays homage to military pilot sunglasses).

Details like a vintage nose bridge, premium mineral glass lenses and a three-barrel hinge set-up on the frame drive home the point that the Walden Eyewear Pinion Sunglasses are a certified style winner — and at one heck of a discount for Labor Day weekend.

Plus, these are the kind of sunglasses you can wear into fall, and even through winter. It doesn’t get any better than that, and we’ve got the Huckberry Sale section to thank for that. Now, stock up and get out there, my friends.

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: Shop the Best Black Friday and Cyber Monday Deals Right Now

Sleek dress boots that you should pick up ASAP from Huckberry during Black Friday or Cyber Monday.

Step right up and step into Black Friday and Cyber Monday with my best deals for Black Friday (and again, Cyber Monday) today on the blog. Speaking of “stepping” — how about those stylish dress boots from Huckberry shown above? Perfect for the holiday. Thanksgiving weekend is an important time to relax and celebrate with family and friends … and yes, it’s also a heck of a time to get the best deals on winter gear and many more picks, so we’ll have some fun with that today. From affordbable deals on holiday coffee, new men’s boots and some of the best men’s denim, there’s plenty to keep you occupied. And yes, there are great deals going on at Huckberry, so hop to that while you can. As for me, I’m enjoying a relaxing weekend — and yes, some Black Friday shopping — in my adopted home state of sunny Florida with my family. On tap for the weekend? Well, besides menswear … I’ll be sipping on some freshly brewed craft beer that my dad and I made during my September visit! We’re also planning to sneak in some crucial beach time and of course, plenty of rest and relaxation to go along with it. Crucially, you can follow along with all the fun on my Instagram — that is, when you’re not shopping the best style deals for Black Friday, ehh? Again, let’s have some fun, shall we?

  • The good folks at Mott and Bow — yes, the brand that makes your favorite jeans — are back at it again with some of the best deals on men’s jeans for Black Friday, and that’s a fact. Mott and Bow is offering  25 percent off all orders sitewide, plus 30 percent off all orders over $250 and 35 percent off all orders over $400 with code BF19!  (rolling through this Sunday). Additionally, Mott & Bow will be offering an exclusive one-day Cyber Monday sale, with 25 percent off sitewide for any puchase, 30 percent off orders over $250 and 35 percent off orders over $400. Sounds like you just found your new favorite place to buy jeans, right?
  • There’s never a bad time to stock up on grooming essentials from Duke Cannon, and that’s just the way it is. The popular men’s grooming brand recently launched a line of essential holiday shops with funny names like “Lump of Coal” (an activated charcoal soap), while you find Duke Cannon beard oils and balms really get the job done when taming your mane (at least, that’s the case for me!). Enjoy!
  • As ever, never lose sight of what the team at Huckberry is churning out when it comes to Black Friday deals — and there are plenty! That’s also the case with the upcoming Huckberry Cyber Monday sale. From rugged henleys to slim denim and the best travel bags, it’s a veritable one-stop shop for the best men’s gear.
  • At Western Rise, this outdoor and performance-focused gear brand is offering 20 percent off sitewide for Black Friday. Yes indeed, there’s something for everyone on the site, from the Elkton Stretch Wool Flannel to The Evolution Pant. Happy shopping!
  • Folks, you’re in luck — Faherty Brand started its Black Friday and Cyber Monday sale earlier this week, and it runs through Monday. The goods?25 percent off all items, with no exclusions (and a minimum order of $250 is required). That should be pretty easy to meet, what with stylish products like the Brushed Alpine Flannel offering up perfect winter style.
  • My friends at United By Blueare offering up to 60 percent off sitewide and free shipping on Black Friday, and up to 60 percent off sitewide on Cyber Monday ending at midnight, PLUS, they’re running a “Sale on Sale” with 50 percent off. Oh, and you free shipping on all orders.
  • So for Black Friday,  Blundstone is offering 15 percent off sitewide, ending December 2. Step into these rugged leather boots ASAP.
  • As ever, J. Crew is giving you all the goods you can handle this Black Friday and Cyber Monday — take 50 percent off full-price goods, and 60 percent off sale goods, starting TODAY. Bingo!
  • My friends at West Skincare (as covered here on The Manual) are giving you 40 percent off sitewide through Cyber Monday with the code BFCM. Get to it!
  • Chicago’s own Damen + Hastings, makers of stylish accessories for men, are offering 30 percent off sitewide starting today and running through Tuesday, their largest promotion yet!
  • Moral Code Footwear (as seen in this #OOTD) is running a heck of a deal, giving you 30 percent off full-priced items through December 1st, and you can get 40 percent off wallets on Cyber Monday, too.
  • Driftaway Coffee is offering 25 percent off Annual Gift Subscriptions with the code BF2019, and 10 percent off all other Gift Subscriptions with the code BF10 from Thanksgiving, Nov 28 to Cyber Monday, Dec 2. These are great coffee gifts, folks!
  • The fine folks at Luminox are delivering 40 percent off the BlackOps 8895, as well as 30-50 percent off other select models through December 2.
  • Charles Tyrwhitt’s Black Friday Sale runs through today, and you can take 30 percent off everything with the code FRIDAY30. Starting Saturday, you can use the code CYBER30 through next Tuesday, November 3rd to take 30 percent off everything, as well. Bingo!
  • Back to rugged leather boots — now through Sunday, Vasque is offering 25 percent off full priced items and 10 percent off sale items at Vasque.com with the code GIVETHANKS or BLACKFRIDAY.
  • Starting Sunday, Forsake is also offering 25 percent off at Forsake.com. Get to it, folks!
  • Olivers Apparel launched its Thank You Sale (the only sale they offer throughout the year) earlier this week, and now through Cyber Monday, customers can get 20 percent off sitewide with code THANKS.

Did you find somethihng to pique your interest? Maybe some Duke Cannon grooming picks are on your shopping list (or in your shopping cart)? Or perhaps, you’ve simply got to get another pair of your favorite jeans. Either way, I wish you happy shopping, plenty of fun and tons of restful time with family … oh, and turkey. And craft beer — that as well. Thanks for reading!

by Beau H.

Women’s Style Holiday Gift Guide 2017: What to Buy for Her This Christmas

Quick, get your credit card and your shopping list ready — it’s time to for this year’s Women’s Style Holiday Gift Guide, my friends! We’re going past style into lifestyle goods, too — fear not. If you find shopping for any of the women in your life to be a bit of a challenge, we’ve got you covered. That goes for whether you’re buying for your mom, your significant other, your sister, your sister-in-law … anyone on your list. I definitely hope these picks are as useful (and fun!) as our ongoing series covering the best men’s gear — after all, it’s useful (and recommended) to get out of your comfort zone every once in a while when it comes to shopping. Keep in mind that the best gifts truly do come from the heart — seriously! Again, whoever happens to be on your list … this gift guide is the way to go. Want to see different brands included or want to weigh in on what you’re buying this year? Hit me up on Twitter. Happy holidays!

For Your Wife or Girlfriend: Christina Nicole Ayaria Earrings — $72

Simply refined earrings that are perfect for everyday wear or more special occasions.

Perhaps these stylish, unique Christina Nicole Ayaria Earrings are but one part of a larger gift to your significant other, which is fantastic! To this writer’s (somewhat) trained eye, they’re an elegant, lovely accessory that can be worn through the holiday season and the rest of the year with just about anything.

For the Broadway/Music Fan: Tickets to Your Wife, Girlfriend or Mom’s Favorite Musical — TBD

Dropping more than four figures on “Hamilton” might not be advisable … but go for it if you want to! Image courtesy of Hamilton.

OK, am I suggesting you open up a second mortage to buy those tickets to “Hamilton,” the famed rap musical about founding father Alexander Hamilton? Ehh, not quite. But splurging on tickets to an amazing musical (or a music act) that your mom, girlfriend or sister loves can be a very cool, very enjoyable gift — heck, it could even come with a trip  built right in! How about it?
For the Book Lover: “Sing, Unburied Sing” by Jesmyn Ward — From $11.27

An award-winning novel that anyone can appreciate.

Know someone who loves to read and devours the latest and greatest off shelves? If they haven’t read this number yet, I’d suggest it. Even if someone like your mother-in-law isn’t a devout reader, it’s tough to find someone who doesn’t appreciate a well-crafted novel — this acclaimed tome took home this year’s National Book Award for Fiction.

For the Style Lover: Red Wing Heritage Clara Boot — $359.99

Stylishly made, well-crafted leather boots from the brand that also makes your own favorite boots.

Did you know that Red Wing Heritage made women’s boots? Extremely stylish women ‘s boots at that? It’s a relatively recent addition to the brand’s lineup, and the Red Wing Heritage Clara Boot features every bit as much craftsmanship and outstanding quality as your own pair of rugged leather boots. These offer a bit of chic refinement, so the receipient can rock ’em on date night or on a winter stroll around town. The catch? You need a shoe size first … get to it!
For Your Wife or Girlfriend (Continued): Ethics Supply Co. Firefall Bath Salts — $32 AND Cultiver Marais Robe — $110

Two gifts for … well, not for the price of one. But a great combination nonetheless.

Two great gifts bundled into one idea here.  That is to say,  you’ll have to wrap it yourself. The Ethics Supply Co. Firefall Bath Salts are a refreshing and relaxing way to unwind, while you can’t beat a high-quality bathrobe like the Cultiver Marais Robe. See, isn’t this easy? I kid, I kid.
For the Jewelry Lover: J. Alexander Silver and Turquoise Jewelry Box — $72

A cool, classic way to store her jewelry from J. Alexander.

For the woman who’s got quite a lot — I mean, A LOT — of jewelry, this elegant J. Alexander Silver and Turquoise Jewelry Box is an excellent gift, perhaps in tandem with the Christina Nicole Ayaria Earrings we discussed earlier. It’s striking and well-designed, yet not too over-the-top, exactly what’s needed in a nice Christmas gift.
 For the Style Lover (Part 2): The Horse The Classic Time Teller Watch — $164.98

A sleek, simple watch that goes with anything — perfect for the woman who loves style.

Whether you’re buying for your mom, your sister or your mother-in-law, a crisp and refined timepiece is an excellent gift (one that keeps on giving, you might say). The Classic Time Teller Watch is elegant, refined and easily wearable during the holidays and well after — a terrific value for the money.
For the Coffee Lover: Fellow Stagg x Pour-Over Set — $69 AND Canyon Coffee Medium Roast — $17

Two great gifts that work very, VERY well alongside one another. Who doesn’t love a great cup of coffee?

Here’s another gift that works quite well as a set — the well-made Fellow Stagg x Pour-Over Set, paired up with an exceptionally tasty Canyon Coffee Medium Roast, is a great one to open on Christmas Day and enjoy right then and there. At least, that’s what I’d do. You can also give each gift individually — it’s all up to you. Who’s got my next cup of coffee?
For Your Sister or Sister-in-Law: Nisolo Clutch Wallet — $128

A sustainably crafted clutch that’ll come in very handy all year long.

If you’re a bit stumped on what to get your sister or sister-in-law — fear not, we’ve all been there — then a simple clutch (a sustainably made one, at that), is a safe bet on the gift-giving front. Nisolo makes its Clutch Wallet from quality materials built to last, so it’ll be durable and stylish long after the holidays.

For the Sneakerhead: Gola Classics Women’s Bullet Metallic Trainer  — $95

A cool pair of sneakers for the woman who appreciates cool style.

Know a woman who’s seriously into sneakers — or who simply loves a sporty, chic pair of footwear? The Gola Classics Bullet Metallic Trainer is an excellent pair to buy, filled with British sporting heritage and sleek, modern style. A unique gift under the tree that someone might not have thought of — that’s what we’re going for here.
Holiday 2017

So, was this list a good start? I sure do hope so. Taking care of gift giving can be a bit of a difficult proposition, especially when buying for multiple people (and keeping track of your own holiday wish list, of course). Let me know on The Style Guide Facebook page what you’re buying this year, and stay tuned for more holiday gift guides for everyone from your father to your brother!

Thanks for reading,

-Beau

by Beau H.

Online Shopping Picks: The Best Gifts to Buy For Mother’s Day This Year

OK, guys — remain calm. If Mother’s Day crept up on you this year — or you just didn’t know what to buy for the occasion, The Style Guide is here to help today. And luckily for all of you shoppers out there, we’ve got not only a little bit of time before Mother’s Day (it’s this weekend!), but also plenty of options in this year’s Mother’s Day gift guide. Read this post, and I guarantee you your gift-giving conundrum will be solved. Just as with buying a Christmas or birthday gift, it pays to dig a little deeper, past the ordinary — simple and beautifully made gifts with character are the way to go, no matter the mom you’re buying for. And we’re making it even easier this year, with categories ranging from fashion to jewelry. So with all of that being said, I won’t waste another minute of your time. Unless, that is, you feel like shopping for yourself and perhaps crossing an item off your spring style wish list … in that case, procrastinate away! In the meantime, good luck finding that perfect Mother’s Day gift — tell me how it goes over on Twitter or via The Style Guide Facebook page.

Greats

Jewelry: Julia Szendrei Horizon Diamond Slice Necklace — $99

Julia Szendrei

A simply stylish, understated addition to Mom’s jewelry collection.

You know what’s the great thing about shopping frequently via Huckberry? You get well-acquainted with the fact that they’ve got a neat, unique and well-curated selection of women’s gifts — including the Julia Szendrei Horizon Diamond Slice Necklace.  It provides just the right amount of visual interest, and certainly looks more unique than other necklaces Mom might have in her jewelry rotation. Simple, understated and classic.

Accessories, Part 1: Sofia Ramsey Silver Coco Bracelets — $16

Made with hand-painted coconut wood and bright metal beads, these would be a unique, thoughtful gift.

Less a statement piece of jewelry and more a thoughtful accessory, these Sofia Ramsey bracelets blend a spring and summer-friendly color with carefully constructed quality and the type of chic looks that the mom — or moms — on your gifting list might appreciate. Perhaps even better than the eclectic style of these bracelets? Supporting two local businesses in the process (one of ’em being my favorite Brooklyn shop, Upstate Stock!). Plus, you can combine this gift with a little more personal touch — thoughtful flowers, a nice candle or a great book. Speaking of books …

The Combination Gift: Elizabeth W. Aromatherapy Candle — $23.98 AND a Great Book [“Days Without End” by Sebastian Barry, $26 on IndieBound.com]

The unbeatable combo of a great book and a nice candle.

What better way to welcome spring and summer than with an intriguing beach read? If you’ve got a book lover on your list, they very well might appreciate “Days Without End,” a richly crafted, fascinating tale of immigration, the old American West and in short, a momentous time in American history. It’s got a lot of buzz behind it, and it’s certainly among the best books for Mother’s Day (I think). It should be a gripping read — and that’s where the relaxing Lavender Aromatherapy Candle comes into play. See, two great gifts and an easy one-two punch.

Clothing: Taylor Stitch Catherine Buttondown — $118

Taylor Stitch Women's Apparel

A simple, well-made buttondown — match with your gift receipient if you wish!

Lest you thought Taylor Stitch only made your favorite clothing, think again. They make a nice selection of finely textured, well-made and understated pieces for the woman who values effortless style. Whoever that might be on your list, a premium shirt like the Taylor Stitch Catherine Buttondown could be a nice complement to something like a day of pampering or her favorite flowers — see, it’s the little things that count. And seeing as Taylor Stitch has thought of all the details possible with its Catherine Shirt, that’s great news as you shop for Mother’s Day.

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Footwear: Nisolo Sofia Slip-on — $188

Nisolo

A clean, well-made slip-on perfect for the mom who loves — I mean, LOVES — shoes.

Just as with Taylor Stitch, Nisolo does far more than make stylish gear for guys (like the Emilio Chukka Boot). Indeed, the Sofia Slip-on is yet another unique, refined and understated pair of footwear to consider buying for the mom who considers herself a fashionista. And regardless of her footwear tastes, a chic pair of leather slip-ons should work reliably well through the warmer months — so while you buy the Nisolo Leon Weekender for yourself, buy the Sofia Slip-on for her, will ya?

Sutro Shoes Inc.

Accessories, Part 2: Bellroy Carry Out Clutch — $168.98

 

Bellroy

For the mom who appreciates refined, essential accessories — here’s the gift to give.

Who doesn’t appreciate a great addition to their everyday carry  — right? While Mom’s daily carry might look a bit different than yours — I’d wager she doesn’t carry around a small pocket knife, for example — there are still additions to be made. And one of those additions should likely be the Bellroy Carry Out Clutch, a subtly stylish clutch that should be easy to slip into a tote bag or carry on its own. Hey, maybe check out some other Bellroy leather goods for yourself? You know, as a reward for your shopping prowess.

And with that … we’ve reached the end of this year’s Mother’s Day gift guide. Was it helpful? Useful? Or was it a complete waste of time and you’re still scrambling to find a gift? In that case … I do apologize. But if you found a simple, timeless and classic gift to give — like the Bellroy Carry Out Clutch or the Sofia Slip-on — that’s what we’re going for! Indeed, it all comes down to playing toward Mom’s tastes and interests; in that case, something more unexpected, yet well-made — like the Taylor Stitch Catherine Buttondown — could be a prime gift to give. Don’t forget small touches, like an engaging book or a nice candle. So, what do you say? Let me know what you’re buying for Mother’s Day this year in the comments below.

Good luck, stay stylish and thank you for reading — as always!

-Beau

by Beau H.

Women’s Style Holiday Gift Guide 2016

Editor’s note: For more gift ideas, check out last year’s women’s style holiday gift guide.

So, you’ve looked at the ole calendar and realized it’s December, ehh? In a bit of a gift-giving panic (and if not, maybe soon)? Well, fear not — The Style Guide is here to set you up with excellent holiday gift-giving advice for all the stylish ladies in your life. Hopefully, they strike the right chord — if you don’t see any suggestions to fit your gifting needs, shoot me an email and we’ll help you out. Whether you’re buying for your wife, girlfriend, mom, sister or grandma — or likely that whole group, and more — there are plenty of picks below to get those gears turning. In fact, the list is expanded and divided into a few helpful categories. Last year’s Women’s Style Holiday Gift Guide might also help you out in a pinch — but that’s just this writer’s opinion. The biggest key is thoughtful gift-giving — while you might love a framed NFL jersey, your wife might not appreciate said gift (I kid, I kid). It’s never an easy process — so read on, shop away and leave any questions in the comments below.

Home Goods: Luvhaus Ceramics One-Of-A-Kind Turqouise Tumblers (Set of 2) — $64.98

Luvhaus Ceramics

Unique tumblers that add a little spark to your kitchen.

Let’s get this kicked off with a helpful nudge — if you find yourself shopping Huckberry quite a bit, you can kill two birds with one stone. The site’s excellent Huckberry Gift Guide is packed with gifts for everyone from your father-in-law to your son, and the site’s Huckberry Women’s Collection is a veritable treasure trove of outstanding finds both big and small. That includes the very cool set of Luvhaus turquoise tumblers seen here — talk about a neat addition to your kitchen, and the perfect set of tumblers for occasions throughout the year.

Jewelry: Sword and Plough Brass Bar Necklace — $69

Made from a 50-caliber shell casing, this unique piece of jewelry is truly one of a kind.

Made from a 50-caliber shell casing, this unique piece of jewelry is truly one of a kind.

The folks at Sword & Plough get a lot right when it comes to their production and design of stylish men’s and women’s accessories, starting with their support of veterans through every step of design and production. In particular, the Brass Bar Necklace is unique, subtly stylish and a perfect, understated finishing touch. This neat necklace is made from a 50-caliber shell casing, and it’s done in partnership with Bang Bang Ballistic. Co-founder Shanna Rodenberg is a disabled veteran who first experimented with making jewelry out of spent ammo after eight years serving in Afghanistan — you won’t find another piece of jewelry with that pedigree and history this season.

Footwear: Nisolo Oliver Oxford in Brandy — $134.98

Nisolo Oliver Oxford

A chic, refined and well-made pair of shoes that everyone can appreciate.

Now, you certainly don’t have to be a “fashionista” to appreciate a chic, well-made and versatile pair of shoes — right? Nisolo handcrafts its beautiful men’s and women’s shoes in Pereu, and the Oliver Oxford is the brand’s interpretation of a classic men’s Oxford. The sheep leather insole provides comfort atop a stacked leather heel, and the slip-free rubber heel cap provides an added dash of functionality. They’re a more unique take on women’s footwear, but hopefully appreciated by those who love great design.

 Headwear/Accessories: Goorin Brothers January Breeze Felt Hat — $60

Goorin Brothers women's hats

A classic, chic hat for the woman who favors unique, neat style.

We’re keeping things rolling for the fashionable woman (or women) in your life here today. When it comes to versatile, well-made hats, Goorin Brothers is tough to top. On top of classic wool flatcaps and leather fedoras for men — as seen in my recent upstate travel post — the brand also makes a slew of stylish women’s hats, both more unique and more traditional in nature. If the lady in your life needs a new hat to go along with her leather Oxfords, the January Breeze could be the one to gift. Its shape is classic and easily wearable in breezy winter temperatures, and it makes a neat addition to a travel wardrobe — at least in the eyes of this author.

Accessories: Tanner Goods Vanguard Saddle Bag in Hickory — $249.98

A beautiful bag made from premium materials, from the same brand who makes your favorite belt.

A beautiful bag made from premium materials, from the same brand who makes your favorite belt.

If you follow along with this blog regularly, you know that we love ourselves some Tanner Goods gear. The brand’s belts and wallets are investment-worthy, and now, the brand is carefully crafting some amazing women’s accessories as well. Take the incredible Tanner Goods Vanguard Saddle Bag in Hickory. It’s a lovely bag, able to work all through the day and night in a beautiful Hickory color and all-leather construction. The Vanguard Saddle Bag is also made in America — as the brand does with its men’s lifestyle products — features what the brand calls “graceful lines” for a premium look and feel. If you tend to agree, surely the woman in your life will appreciate it.

Accessories, Part 2: Scarf Shop Giant Cotton Scarf — $49.98

Scarf Shop Cotton Scarf

A refined, wearable and stylish cotton scarf for the holiday season.

So, us guys value stylish, functional winter accessories — and it stands to reason that the ladies in your life do, as well. This cotton scarf certainly isn’t built for taking on a snowstorm, but it’s a neat, textured cotton piece that you might call an “indoor scarf” — ideal for layering with a sweater or cardigan in front of the fire or at a New Year’s Eve party. And if you’ve got someone in mind who likes that type of thing, I’d suggest you pick up the Scarf Shop Giant Cotton Scarf.

Home and Bath Goods: Herbivore Spa Day Beauty Set — $79.98

Herbivore Spa Day Set

A refreshing, responsibly made and affordable spa set for her.

Who knew that Huckberry offered spa products? Certainly not this guy. But if your wife or girlfriend wants a nice way to relax — at an affordable price point for you — then the Spa Day Beauty Set is just what you need to purchase this holiday season. It features calming bath salts, an exfoliating rose body polish and jasmine body oil for a complete package made with premium ingredients and care. The Spa Day Beauty Set  is also all-natural and non-toxic — it’s a winning situation all around.

Frank & Oak
Now, I suppose that’s that. Hopefully, the above picks represent a broad spectrum of gift-giving selections for all the fine women in your life. If you’ve got a gift you want to run by a trusted fellow style fan, I’m the man to see. From the fashionista to someone who loves to entertain, stylish, premium gifts like leather Oxfords or a set of unique tumbler glasses fit the bill perfectly. Of course, the above gifts are just a smattering of the gifts you could buy — and supplementing a style-minded gift with something more personal (a new book or tickets to a favorite play, perhaps?) are always great to keep in mind. With that being said, let me know how your holiday shopping is going — and keep an eye out for our Friday Read and Style Pick of the Week entries later this week.

Happy shopping, and stay stylish!

-Beau