Category / Men’s Style

by Beau H.

The List: Get Dressed for Summer in Style with the Best New Gear Right Now

The sort of style inspiration you need this summer via Todd Snyder.

It might seem hard to believe, but it’s time — yet again — to check in on the best summer menswear and another edition of The List, my weekly roundup celebrating the best men’s gear (and more specifically, pieces like that classic summer sweatshirt seen above). In this case, we’ll continue to talk about all the seasonal men’s style essentials you need in your life, preferably as soon as possible. We’ll kick things off with a rugged style move from Todd Snyder, and we’ll also dive in to plenty more top picks, including everyday carry essentials and the best men’s chinos. Have any thoughts on what to buy or what to wear during these socially distant times? Let me know on Twitter. 

Todd Snyder + Champion Cursive Sweatshirt — $148

A seriously cool, rugged sweatshirt to wear all summer long.

You know that much-loved, well-worn, classic sweatshirt (kind of like the one at the top of the page) that sits tucked away in your closet, maybe even at your cabin or lakehouse? This rugged sweatshirt from Todd Snyder + Champion is the modern version of that timeless sweatshirt, made to be worn all summer long on breezy evenings.

Flint and Tinder Lightweight Stretch Chinos — $98

Easygoing chinos to rock all summer long.

Now, we’ve written before about the best lightweight chinos for summer here on the blog, but these are a different breed. First of all, the Flint and Tinder Lightweight Stretch Chinos are now updated in a variety of colors. Second of all, they’d look great with just about anything — your classic sweatshirt  in particular.
Taylor Stitch Cash Shirt in Washed Hemp Chambray — $125

A classically cool summer shirt from Taylor Stitch.

Speaking of rugged summer style picks, who does it better than the great folks at Taylor Stitch? As seen on my Instagram, the Taylor Stitch Cash Shirt is easy to layer and extremely well-made — assuredly one of the best shirts for summer you can snag now.
Nisolo Calano Oxfords — $150

Durable, classic leather dress shoes for summer.

Hey, you’ll have to  get back into the routine of wearing stylish leather dress shoes at some point, right? Might as well go with a sustainably made pair of dress shoes in a slim profile from Nashville-based Nisolo. A perfect pairing with, yes, the Taylor Stitch Cash Shirt.
Billykirk No. 211 Frame Bike Pouch — $115

A unique, cool way to haul your everyday carry.

Maybe, given the state of things, you’re finding yourself on your bike more — and perhaps, you need a better way to haul your everyday carry essentials. Enter this cool leather bike pouch from the good folks at Billykirk.
Mott and Bow Slim Laight Jeans — $108

Light wash jeans for summer? Talk about a go-to move any day of the week.

Slim or straight-fit light wash jeans, as you very well know, are a summer style move that can’t really be trifled with. Such is the case with the Mott and Bow Laight Jeans, which blend comfort and great looks into some of the best men’s denim for summer.
Marathon Navigator Watch — $300

An undeniably rugged summer watch.

Let’s get into some of the best outdoor gear for summer, shall we? Now, even in these socially distanced times, I’d wager you’re itching to  get out and explore — this Marathon Navigator Watch could be the toughest watch for summer in that regard.
North 89 No-1 Weatherproof Sneakers — $245

Perfectly functional summer sneakers, available via Huckberry.

In a similar vein to the Marathon Navigator Watch, the right pair of summer sneakers are going to blend seamless comfort and functionality. These weatherproof sneakers, while pricey, happen to check all the right boxes.
Billy Reid Selvedge Driver Shirt — $325

A durable, stylish selvedge shirt for summer.

We’re longtime fans of Alabama menswear designer Billy Reid here on the blog (just look at the incredible Billy Reid Bond Peacoat, for starters), and this pleasingly rugged summer shirt is a fine addition to the brand’s line of the best menswear essentials … is it not?
Grayers Moorea Garment-Dyed Swim Trunks — $68

Possibly your new favorite swim trunks for summer.

Your summer swimwear could use an upgrade, could it not? Luckily, Grayers is here to help with these retro-inspired swim trunks in a pleasing array of seasonal shades.
Sennheiser Ambeo Immersive Sound Bar — $2,500

The best way to upgrade your home listening experience, easily.

Let’s turn our attention toward the best audio gear for your home. To be more specific — your audio system might be in need of a major upgrade as we all spend more time at home, and the Sennheiser Amebo Sound Bar is perhaps the best sound bar on the market (with a price tag to match). High-end drivers and the ability to match with the acoustics of the room are simply without  parallel.
Buck Mason Sueded Cotton Baseball Tee — $65

A classic baseball tee for classic summer style.

No doubt about it, the classic men’s style inspiration from Buck Mason continues to run deep. This rugged baseball tee could just be your new favorite summer T-shirt, easily paired with slim chino shorts or light wash denim and your Clarks Wallabee Boots.
Fisher + Baker Bastille Shirt — $158

An easy-to-wear, lightweight summer shirt.

Finding a breathable shirt for summer can be an up-and-down search if you  don’t know wear to look — but now, you do. Fisher + Baker has made one of the best shirts for summer, and they’ve done it using hemp and organic cotton in a rugged design. Wear it atop that Buck Mason baseball tee if you so choose.
Techne Merlin Watch — $173.49

The best men’s watch for summer? Very nearly.

I’ve had the great fortune of testing out the classically designed, durable Techne Merlin Watch these past few weeks, and let me tell ya … it’s the real deal. A slim-but-tough profile, a summer-ready NATO strap, a stainless steel case and a crisp, retro-inspired dial design make this a surefire winner.
Beckett Simonon Reid Sneakers — $149

Sleek, stylish leather sneakers to wear all summer.

Let’s close things out by talking about some of the best men’s sneakers for summer yet again, shall we? Beckett Simonon specializes in making premium leather footwear in styles ranging from boots to wingtips, and these expertly made casual leather sneakers are as refined as your favorite dress shoes.
That’s going to do it for today’s edition of The List, my friends. So, what’ll it be? Will you pick up some of the best men’s sneakers for summer and wear ’em for days on end? We’d be remiss to forget about gear like the excellent Marathon Navigator Watch or the Sennheiser Amebo Sound Bar, as well — talk about two wish list-worthy purchases right there. As for me, I’ve got a few favorites here from Billy Reid’s rugged summer shirt  to retro-inspired swim trunks from Grayers and of course, that rugged sweatshirt from Todd Snyder + Champion as seen at the top of the page. To check out how I’m getting dressed for summer, head to my Instagram. Thanks for reading!
by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Billykirk Standard Issue East-West Tote Bag

The best tote bag to haul your summer gear? Quite possibly.

The days, in these strange and trying times, keep on rolling by, and *checks notes* it’s Saturday, so it’s time for yet another Style Pick of the Week covering the very best men’s gear. Well, one of the best men’s gear picks — in this case, it’s an everyday carry essential from the fine folks at New Jersey-based Billykirk. For a bit more than 20 years now, Billykirk‘s Chris and Kirk Bray have been making some of the most rugged goods on the planet, and doing it all in America — that’s where the new Billykirk Standard Issue Tote Bag enters the equation. The No. 540 Standard Issue Tote is a staple of the brand, but it gets a seriously cool and summer-centric update via the bright, fun River Yellow color as seen above (and it also now comes in Teal). Your summer travel plans might look a heck of a lot different — schlepping your gear a few yards to your firepit versus driving cross-coutry, for instance, but one of the best men’s tote bags can still add some excellent utility to your arsenal of everyday carry essentials.

Picture this: You’re gearing up for a summer weekend bonfire at home. You’re wearing your favorite summer sneakers and maybe some light wash jeans. You’ve got your cooler but you need to haul the rest of your gear out to said firepit. And you’re using this rugged tote bag. That’s but one use case, though — this tough and stylish tote bag is going to come in plenty handy elsewhere, too.

SHOP: The Billykirk Standard Issue East-West Tote Bag

A dependable tote bag could become a new summer style essentials.

A great tote bag like this one from Billykirk is assuredly worth adding to your list of summer gear, especially when it’s made from 10 oz. waxed cotton canvas — perfect for breezy, dewy summer mornings and chilly nights. And you needn’t worry about the durability of this thing, given that the Billykirk Standard Issue Tote Bag also features mil-spec nylon webbing and a full-grain leather bottom. It’s a seriously well-designed tote bag and includes an open main compartment and three interior organization compartments, too (to go along with two exterior pockets). Those are all critical when it comes to storing your everyday carry essentials or hauling around your favorite growler.  Heck, the No. 540 Standard Issue Tote is even sized to fit up to a 15″ laptop, so you can get some work done at your local cafe (when it reopens, that is). So, it’s clear that this new, rugged tote bag belongs on your list of summer style essentials — right? That’s a surefire “Yes” from me. Check it out at Billykirk, and feel free to hit me up on Twitter for more of my thoughts on the brand.

SHOP: The Billykirk Standard Issue East-West Tote Bag

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: Last-Minute Father’s Day Gifts, New Everyday Carry Gear & The Best Denim Jacket

Nothing less than the best summer T-shirt.

Rest assured, it’s still a very difficult and challenging time out there, so thank you for stopping by the blog. Here we are on yet another Friday — first off, have you picked up your new favorite T-shirt (as seen above), or a last-minute Father’s Day gift? If not, it’s time to get on that — and there’s no better place to go than Huckberry, which recently launched the Forty Five Tee. You’ve read about these stylish T-shirts on the blog, but if you’re just getting up to speed, know that Huckberry focused on crafting the best men’s T-shirt … and only that. It’s similar to how the 45RPM record featured just one perfect single (and changed how people collected vinyl records forever). In addition to those tees, we’ll also have plenty of cool ways to kick off the rest of your weekend in today’s Friday Read. Although all of our plans look a bit different this year for Father’s Day, I’d urge you to celebrate with the fathers and father figures in your life however best you can — and maybe stop by the Huckberry Father’s Day Shop or the Todd Snyder Father’s Day Shop to get a last-second gift??

As for me, things are slowly reopening around NYC, a positive given that I can now more directly support some of my favorite businesses, from coffee shop Qathra to whiskey bar Sycamore. I’m also still missing live music more than ever, but doing what I can to support by viewing livestreams and benefit shows by the likes of Audiotree. It’s all about doing your part — I hope that’s the case in your region as well. These businesses need our support more than ever (and that goes for a great deal many menswear brands, too!). With that in mind, let’s dig into a few brands that could use our support at the moment — some you’ll recognize, certainly. Enjoy your weekend, thanks for reading & stay safe!

Great soaps from a great brand — for a great cause.

Alright, so before I let you go for the weekend, I’m going to direct you toward yet another must-buy for the season. Namely, you’re going to need a stylish polo or three for the hot summer months. On that note, the exceptional Taylor Stitch Heavy Bag Polo could just be the perfect purchase to sort out your summer wardrobe. Read more here via the Style Pick of the Week series. OK, my friends. That’s going to wrap things up. Stay safe out there.

 

 

by Beau H.

The List: This is All the Best New Menswear To Shop For Summer Right Now

Kick back in style with the best summer gear — including these pants.

We’re back at it again with another edition of The List, my weekly roundup of the best men’s gear and menswear on the market. As one would expect, we’re focused today on plentiful summer style essentials, the kind of pieces that can help you navigate the strange times we live in — and do so in style, of course. We’ll dive into picks that  could work as last-minute Father’s Day gifts, and we’ll also talk about some of the best men’s pants for summer (because you’ve got to wear something to work from home). Also on my list? Essentials like the very best men’s sunglasses and one of the best men’s henleys. OK, can’t wait to get started? Neither can I. (And to see what I’m rocking this summer, head on over to my Instagram).

Flint and Tinder 365 Pants — $98

Slim, well-made and very essential from Huckberry.

Yes, that’s right. We’re back again with the Flint and Tinder 365 Pants, a true Huckberry classic that you’ll wonder how you ever lived without. Already have a pair? Heck, get two or three pairs of these stylish five-pocket pants in fresh, summer-ready shades to round out your wardrobe. These are going to be your new favorite pants.

Mott and Bow Hooper French Terry Hoodie — $99

A casual and cool zip hoodie from the makers of your favorite denim.

We’ve recommended Mott and Bow sweatshirts before on the blog (in addition to the NYC brand’s stylish denim), and we’re back again today with this classic zip hoodie for breezy summer nights. Wear it as often as you want these casual days.

GrowlerWerks uKeg Nitro Cold Brew Maker — $199

The best cold brew maker on the market? Certainly one of the coolest.

What goes very well with a classic zip hoodie and the Flint and Tinder 365 Pants for a casual day at home? Why, plenty of the best cold brew coffee — and luckily, GrowlerWerks is offering up a cool, high-quality cold brew maker to power all your days at home. Get it via Bespoke Post.

Taylor Stitch Long Haul Jacket in Green Cast Selvage — $228

The best denim jacket for summer could be this one.

Quick, think of the best jackets for summer. What comes to mind? A rugged denim jacket, hopefully? One that you can layer with ease atop tees and henleys? That’s what the Taylor Stitch Long Haul Jacket brings to your wardrobe, and it’s only going to get better the more you wear it.

Billykirk No. 527 Leather Portfolio — $125 

A classic, sleek way to store your modern technology.

Maybe spending more time at home has made you emphasize your everyday carry essentials that much more? Well, that’s where Billykirk enters the equation. This stylish leather portfolio is well-designed, rugged-yet-refined and ready to store an iPad Pro or a MacBook Air.

Portuguese Flannel Dogtown Shirt — $110

A seriously cool summer shirt to buy ASAP.

Let’s ramp things back up when it comes to your summer shirts, shall we? This stylish short-sleeve shirt from Portuguese Flannel features  a cool name and even cooler styling potential. You should absolutely pair it with the Flint and Tinder 365 Pants.

HELM Boots Nils Burgundy Dress Shoes — $285

Leather dress shoes that’ll amp up your summer style.

Now, listen. Maybe you feel like you don’t quite have the time or the energy to step into some of the best men’s dress shoes when your comfortable house shoes are right there. But upgrading your summer footwear can upgrade your outlook even just a bit, so go with these stylish leather dress shoes from HELM Boots.

Buck Mason Vintage Tri-Blend Curved Hem Henley — $48

A timeless henley to wear as often as possible on chilly summer nights.

Just as you need your rugged denim jacket or classic zip hoodie for cold summer nights, so too do you need one of your favorite henleys. In fact, this stylish long-sleeve henley from the Americana-minded folks at Buck Mason gets the job done perfectly.

VANS Ultrarange 3D Chelsea Mid MTE — $110

Dependable sneakers (or are they boots?) to wear on summer adventures.

The great team at VANS has long been making some of the best men’s sneakers — for decades, in fact. So these stylish sneakerboots are a pretty cool change-up. They’re the perfect sneakerboots to wear on a (socially distanced) summer hike.

Todd Snyder Two-Pocket Utility Shirt — $188

An iconic short-sleeve shirt from an iconic designer.

Invest in the very best — and I mean, the  absolute best menswear your money can buy — with this Todd Snyder utility shirt. The NYC designer has done it again, this time churning out one of the best short-sleeve shirts for summer — you  never knew you needed a cotton workwear shirt until now.

Tivoli Audio Model One Digital Speaker — $300

Upgrade your home listening ASAP.

OK, let’s stay inside for a second and talk  about the best audio gear for your home. Specifically, Tivoli Audio has done a masterful job at crafing this stylish digital speaker for Bluetooth tunes and radio listening.

Raen Optics Rollo Sunglasses — $175

Unstoppable sunglasses for bright summer days.

We mentioned earlier that we’d be covering the best men’s sunglasses, and well, folks, here we are. Raen Optics makes fairly priced, high-quality sunglasses in unique silhouettes — like this pair. Wear ’em with some of the best men’s sneakers, slim chinos and a classic henley.

GREATS Court Cuio Sneakers — $179

The coolest sneakers to power your summer, easily.

If you read the blog, you know that Brooklyn-based GREATS consistently churns out some of the best men’s sneakers — the GREATS Court is no exception, and what’s more, $15 from every purchase will go toward New York’s City Harvest food rescue. Shopping for stylish sneakers AND giving to a good cause? Sign me up.

Grayers Rookley Double Cloth Shirt — $98

A laidback, comfortable summer shirt.

Grayers shirts are the stuff of legend: Made with incredibly soft fabric — in this case, a double-cloth herringbone blend — stylish long-sleeve shirts such as this one are ideal for wearing on their own or rocking atop your favorite T-shirt this summer.

Sonic Editions Paul Newman Print — $349

A way to give your space some instant cool.

With all this time spent at home, maybe you want to upgrade the art in your den or your office. Turn to Sonic Editions for limited-editon prints — like this cool-as-heck Paul Newman print.

Faherty Brand Surf Stripe Packable Jacket — $198

Possibly the coolest jacket for summer, guaranteed.

Look to the great minds at Faherty Brand to make an essential summer jacket. In fact, this retro-inspired rain jacket is ideal for when the weather sneaks up on you — pack it in your backpack for the day’s adventures so it’s close at hand when you need it.

Olivers Apparel All Over Shorts — $68

Functional men’s shorts for summer — the best of the best.

The best men’s shorts for summer are versatile and made to be worn on the go or on your back porch. Helpfully, Olivers Apparel has knocked it out of the park with the All Over Shorts, made from all-weather, four-way stretch fabric.

L’Estrange London 24 Trousers — $157 

Slim, stylish and stretchy trousers to wear as you work from home.

These are strange and trying times we live in, so for spending plenty of time at home, you might as well dress in comfort and style in equal measure. That’s where the 24 Trousers come into play.  I’ve been reviewing them recently (thanks to the brand for sending!), and I’m fully onboard. Available in a wide range of colors, made from stretch cotton and featuring a stretch waistband, these are the perfect pants to wear to work from home (or go out on a socially distanced walk).
Yet again, it seems as if we’ve covered a ton of ground when it comes to the best summer gear for guys. Right? Right. What’s your favorite of the above? Is it the classic-yet-fresh take on sneakers known as the GREATS Court? Or maybe you want to shake things up and pick up stylish leather dress shoes from HELM Boots? As for me, I simply can’t get enough of the iconic Flint and Tinder 365 Pants. To let me know your favorite picks, be sure to give a follow on Twitter. Alright, my friends — thanks for reading, and happy shopping!

 

by Beau H.

#OOTD: Try Out This Way to Wear a Camp Collar Shirt for Summer

We’ve talked through plenty of different ways here on the blog in recent weeks and months about how to get dressed for spring and summer. Namely, about how to do things like wear your favorite shirt or stock up on gear to wear to work from home, and that trend is continuing to pick up steam. So far, the summer is shaping up to be mighty different than the one we all had in mind, I would imagine, but that’s no excuse for shelving your summer style essentials. Instead, let’s look to one of the best short-sleeve shirts out there — and a unique way to wear it, no less. The camp collar shirt is a classic men’s style piece that’s seen a comeback in recent years, as designers have looked to the ’50s and ’60s (hello, Mad Men!) for retro style cues, and that’s never really faded — in fact, it’s only picked up, as you’ll see by the stylish camp collar shirt we’ve got in today’s #OOTD.

Crucially, the camp collar shirt is a change of pace from your summer polo or traditional short-sleeve buttondown, all owing to the open collar and the boxier, straight-fit cut. That means it’s one of the best short-sleeve shirts for throwing on at a (modified) family BBQ or for lounging around the house (both of which are liable to happen plenty these days!). Plus, putting on a cool summer shirt just seems to pair better with a lovely summer cocktail than the same tee or henley you’ve been wearing all day (guilty as charged!). In this instance, it gets paired up with pieces you’d expect but might not have previously considered — stylish summer shorts actually take a bit of a back seat here for classic summer pants, and we’re switching out canvas sneakers for ever-so-cool leather loafers. It’s all geared toward adding a bit of refinement and classic style to your life at home. Check out the full look  below, then be sure to get in touch on Twitter to tell me how you’re styling it.

  • The Shirt: Mollusk Aloha Shirt, $88 — When trying out something new like a camp collar shirt, it’s perhaps best not to invest too much. That’s where the ever-stylish Mollusk Aloha Shirt (certainly, one of the best shirts under $100) comes into play.
  • The Pants: Buck Mason Slub Twill Officer Pants, $135 — That’s right, we’re trading in stylish summer shorts for something a bit more refined for cocktail hour, and these Buck Mason twill pants are just the ticket. Lightweight, breathable and ideal to wear now & then into fall and winter. The best men’s pants? Very nearly.
  • The Loafers: Yuketen Bit Loafers, $288.98 — We’re also swapping out summer sneakers for something with a touch more refinement, and these stylish leather loafers are easy to wear … and easy to look great in while kicked back Consider them some of the coolest summer shoes — and the most unique.
  • The Watch: About Vintage 1926 At’sea Watch, $375 — You better believe this stylish dive watch is back today on the blog, and in a big way. It’s rugged, it’s versatile, it’s dressy-yet-casual … it could be the perfect watch for summer.
  • The Belt: Billykirk No. 354 Braided Leather Belt, $99 — This might seem like a strange time to invest in one of the best leather belts, but when you want a major change of pace from your joggers or casual drawstring shorts (again, guilty as charged), it helps to have the best men’s accessories on hand. This rugged leather belt is one of ’em.
  • The Sunglasses: Pacifico Optical Buckler Sunglasses, $195 — Spending hours in the sun on your patio requires stylish sunglasses (and the best sunscreen, to be sure), so look great in the seasonal heat wearing these Pacifico Optical sunglasses.
  • The Essential Summer Beer: New Belgium Mural Agua Fresca Cerveza, Price Varies — To me, there’s nothing more enjoyable for summer than kicking back, cold beer in hand and my favorite summer tunes playing. The light, refreshing New Belgium Mural does a wonderful job at blending flavors like watermelon and lime into a low-ABV drinking experience. Cheers, folks.
  • The Audio Experience: Gingko HiFi Square Speaker, $99 — As I mentioned before, what pairs better with a great summer beer than one of the best wireless speakers with which to enjoy your favorite summer songs? Not much, folks — not much at all.

Visit Todd Snyder New York

If at first you feel intimidated by the prospect of switching up your summer wardrobe and swapping your favorite tee for the camp collar shirt shown above, that’s completely understandable. In these largely casual times we now live in, even something as laidback and breezy as the Mollusk Aloha Shirt can raise eyebrows. But the dividends that come from switching things up and getting dressed for an at-home date night or family dinner? Now, those are pretty cool — and heck, you can keep this outfit handy for when it’s finally time to return to a (somewhat) normal life. The right men’s style essentials help amp things up a notch, including the best men’s pants for summer, plus some seriously stylish, classic leather loafers. Those two moves are a nice change of pace that fit right in alongside a stylish dive watch for instantly rugged-yet-versatile style you can rock all day. But as you well know, no stylish summer ensemble is complete without equally stylish sunglasses for long days in the sun, so prepare accordingly.
Visit Todd Snyder New York

Accessorize the right way with one of the best leather belts, and don’t forget to tune up with one of the best wireless speakers (and of course, an ice-cold summer beer from New Belgium). Taken all at once, I’d say your next summer evening at home just got way more stylish. What say you? Again, let me know on Twitter or Instagram how you’re dressing for summer. Thanks for reading!

 

by Beau H.

See Now, Buy Now: These Buck Mason Deck Shorts are Summer’s Most Versatile Shorts

With the way things have been going around these parts, maybe shopping for summer style essentials has taken a back seat. And now, well, you realize you’re in need of a pair of the best men’s shorts for summer — and ASAP, at that. Ladies and gentlemen, allow me to introduce you to the Buck Mason Vintage Deck Shorts, easily some of the most versatile and best shorts for summer. If you read the blog, you know Buck Mason — this all-American brand makes everything from the best men’s T-shirt to plenty of stylish, easygoing denim shirts,  textured polos and slim blue jeans. Of course, add the Buck Mason Vintage Deck Shorts to that list of essential men’s gear right now, too. What makes these stylish shorts so darn necessary for the season? Let’s start with the aforementioned versatility. They’re made of a quick-drying cotton-nylon fabric blend — that means that yes, these are shorts that also double as swim trunks. What makes them more akin to chino shorts than baggy boardshorts, though? It’s got to be the stylish, tailored cut — the Buck Mason Vintage Deck Shorts channel perfectly retro style that doesn’t look out of place these days at home or (socially distanced) at the lake. The preferred pairing? Naturally, stylish boat shoes and a classic T-shirt, beer in hand.

SHOP: The Buck Mason Vintage Deck Shorts

The versatility of the Buck Mason Vintage Deck Shorts keeps getting better, though. You’ve got your pick of four color options, each of which wear well with summer style staples like a crisp white T-shirt or a navy slub polo in equal measure. These are stylish summer shorts you can throw on and forget about — the elasticized back waistband provides comfort and mobility for backyard hangs and summer grilling sessions, too. And let’s not forget about the very agreeable price — classic summer shorts for under $90 (in this case, $85), especially ones that double as swim shorts … that’s one heck of a deal from possibly your new favorite menswear brand. Maybe you feel you’re all set when it comes to both shorts for summer and your swim trunks, but aafter seeing the Buck Mason Vintage Deck Shorts, I’d certainly think twice. Let me know if you decide to pick them up by paying me a visit on Twitter!

Thanks for reading,

-Beau

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Astorflex Patnoflex Leather Loafers

The perfect leather loafers for summer are here.

If you swing by the blog regularly, you’re probably on the hunt for the best leather loafers for summer and beyond, not to mention the best men’s slip-on shoes. What’s more, you’ve probably heard the Astorflex name. This Italian-made footwear brand (as sold by Huckberry) makes everything from rugged leather boots to stylish camp shoes without missing a beat. You can — and should — add your new favorite pair of leather loafers to that running list, and the even better news is that they’re here just in time for summer. The Astoflex Patnoflex takes the traditional loafer silhouette and brings it forward into the modern age, and if you’ve been looking for a stylish pair of shoes to wear at home (aside from canvas sneakers) during these quarantine times, you’re absolutely in luck.

Now, here’s the thing: If ever you’ve tried out a pair of sustainably made Astorflex chukka boots, you know that this family-owned brand is, as Huckberry says, one of the best-kept secrets around when it comes to stylish men’s footwear. The beauty of the Astoflex Patnoflex starts with, as one would expect, the use of soft European leather that’s only going to get better with time. The Nubuck option is shown at the top of the page, and seems to be a great bet to wear with everything from your favorite chinos to stylish five-pocket pants.

SHOP: The Astoflex Patnoflex 

Also available in rich Tan Leather, tnese are the best slip-ons to buy for summer.

What makes these sleek leather loafers so wearable with everything from tan chinos shorts to tailored navy chinos and a white polo? Well, the answer lies in silhouette itself — the design is sharp and ever-so-slightly dressy, and not as thick as traditional leather penny loafer (although you should ideally have a pair of those, as well!). The Astoflex Patnoflex also features a leather sole for the ultimate in quiet luxury — and yet, you might be surprised to find out that some of the best men’s loafers retail for just $175 at Huckberry. That’s simply an excellent deal on a stylish pair of slip-on shoes you can wear all summer, whether you’re grilling out or kicking back. It’s also nice to have these leather loafers on hand when you want to slide into something more comfortable — for instance, step out of your rugged Astorflex chukka boots into these. The comfort and styling potential is also nearly limitless when you’ve got some of the best men’s loafers in your rotation. Try these out with olive chinos and a grey polo, keep them handy alongside navy chino shorts and a crisp white pocket tee … just add a cold beer or a cup of tasty cold brew coffee, then set out on your summer day.

SHOP: The Astoflex Patnoflex 

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: The Best Weekender Bags, The Best Father’s Day Gifts & Ways to Give Back

Rugged-yet-comfortable suede boots to power through the rest of summer.

Before we get further into it, thank you for stopping by the blog during such a difficult, challenging time for so many of us. I hope the blog can provide you some solace and enjoyment, however brief. Folks, let’s lace up our summer boots and head into the weekend. To be more specific: Might I recommend the pleasingly rugged pair of boots from HELM Boots as shown above? Yes, you can assuredly still rock suede lace-up boots this summer, so go for it. The HELM Boots Hollis Tan Boots, done up in rich suede, are about as cool as it gets for the season. What to wear them with? Well, that’s where our Friday Read is going to fill in the blanks for you today. For starters, maybe your dad would like some stylish summer boots for Father’s Day, ehh?

Moving on: We’ll cover a bit of everything on the blog, Father’s Day gifts included, along with the best gear to wear with your new favorite boots. We’ll also look at ways to give back across the country during these trying times. After all, we could all use a bit of a momentary break from the news, yes? I hope you’re able to find that break, wherever you might be. Hot weather is really roling into Brooklyn in earnest, so in addition to my usual weekend pursuits (the best coffee and vinyl I can get my hands on), I’ll also be scoping out a great summer beer to enjoy. Heck, you might want to check out my list of the best summer beers for GearMoose, on that note. I think delicious beer, great coffee, great music — and yes, great menswear — can provide just a bit of the respite we need these days, so I thank you for reading. Carry on below, my friends.

  • If you weren’t hip to it by now, Father’s Day 2020 is quickly approaching. To make matters easier on you, I rounded up the best Father’s Day gifts right here on the blog via this post (many of them are from the Huckberry Father’s Day Shop).
  • The ongoing protests in this country have pushed many Americans (myself included) to look for ways to give back right now. That being said, Esquire — ever-stylish and on the cutting edge — put together a great guide on how to give back. Read it, consider it & perhaps donate, if able.
  • Back to fashion, if only for a moment — the right summer #OOTD is a tricky proposition. But as we mentioned above, you can still wear your favorite boots this season, and my guide on how to wear chukka boots could be particularly helpful. Be sure to check out and let me know your thoughts.
  • The headline mentioned that we’d run through the best gear for summer, and with that being said, well, here we are — head to a recent edition of my ongoing series The List, celebrating the best men’s style essentials to buy right now, for a full look. You’ll find stylish selvedge denim from Taylor Stitch, a classic short-sleeve shirt from Huckberry and cool-as-heck summer sneakers from GREATS. Cheers, my friends.
  • One last piece of gear before we head into the weekend — OK, more than one. I rounded up the best weekender bags for GearMoose, in the spirit of (eventually) being able to travel again — particularly closer to home. Whenever you can eventually get upstate or to your lake or waterfront getaway, make sure you’ve got one of the best weekender bags for men — my list can assuredly help. And one last note: You might want to check out a rugged duffel bag from Billykirk via this blog post.

Visit Todd Snyder New York

Last but not least, I think it’s time to point you in the right direction when it comes to one of the best layers for summer — to be more specific, the Levi’s Light Wash Trucker Jacket (as seen here on the blog) is the kind of rugged denim jacket you need now. Wear it over your favorite T-shirt with slim chinos, or team it with a classic slub polo and grey chino shorts — you really can’t go wrong. With that, I’ll leave you to the rest of your summer weekend. Stay safe, stay strong — and thanks for reading!

-Beau


by Beau H.

The List: Stock Up for Summer and Father’s Day with all the Best New Men’s Gear

Walking into summer in style — and with Father’s Day on the way.

Once again my friends, join me for another edition of The List. Today, as always this season, we’re looking at the best new gear to buy for summer (and to be more specific, some of the best gifts to buy for Father’s Day — there’s still time!). The thermostat continues to climb, and strange times continue to swirl around us — so stay healthy and safe, first of all. And consider ways to improve your at-home style in the meantime, too. That’s why we’re here, after all. We’ll get things going with a pick from Todd Snyder as seen above, and we’ll keep it rolling with new men’s style essentials from there. Oh, and another thing — if you’re searching for a last-minute Father’s Day gift, you just might find what you need below, as great gifts for your dad abound.  Note that to get gear picks from the Huckberry Father’s Day Shop, you need to order by the 11th — but that shouldn’t stop you from browsing after that time, either. To let me know what you think of this week’s picks, feel free to reach out on Twitter. Cheers!

Todd Snyder Short-Sleeve Camp Collar Shirt — $158

One heck of a breezy and laidback summer shirt from Todd Snyder.

As promised, here’s that Todd Snyder pick mentioned above. This is one of the coolest shirts for summer, and a reliable way to switch things up from your traditional polo or your favorite T-shirt. If you haven’t yet tried out a camp collar shirt, hot summer days are the prime opportunity to give the style a shot — or encourage your father to do the same.

Astorflex Wakeflex Leather Slip-on Shoes — $165

The coolest shoes to wear for many a summer occasion.

To complete the true summer style pairing, find the right pair of shoes to go along with your Todd Snyder camp collar shirt. To be more specific, pick up a pair of the rugged, casual-yet-versatile Astorflex Wakeflex, a casual update of the brand’s stylish leather loafers. Pick up a pair for your pops, as well??

Buck Mason Broken Twill Shorts — $85

Classic men’s shorts from an all-American retailer.

Finding the best pair of shorts for summer is an oft-elusive search — after all, the best men’s shorts need the right fit, the right fabric and the right design (sorry guys, no cargo shorts here). Thankfully, the Buck Mason Broken Twill Shorts check all the right boxes in that regard.

Shinola Daily Wear Watch — $395

Is this your dad’s new favorite watch? Yes indeed, very likely.

Speaking of Father’s Day gifts, well, Bespoke Post is here with an excellent, well-curated selection of gifts for the stylish dad. High up on that list? The Shinola Daily Wear Watch, easily one of the best everyday watches for guys (maybe grab one for yourself if you’re feeling envious??).

Flint and Tinder Garment-Dyed Poplin Shirt — $98

A seriously cool summer shirt you or your dad can wear all season.

Speaking of gifts for dad, well, this stylish summer shirt could just become … your dad’s new favorite shirt. It’s lightweight, it’s breezy, it’s easy to wear tucked in or untucked with slim light wash denim … what could be better than that?

Billykirk No. 398 Bifold Wallet in Brown — $115

One of the best leather wallets to buy for your dad right now.

That old leather wallet your dad’s had for years deserves a serious upgrade. Get your dad one of the best leather wallets on the market via Billykirk, and maybe consider upgrading your leather wallet, too.

Barebones All-In-One Cast Iron Grill — $140

The best grill for summer, and for those who love the outdoors.

Let’s keep it rolling with the best gifts for dad, shall we? If your dad is an outdoorsman, or simply enjoys firing up the grill every now and again (or every night), this all-in-one cast iron grill could come in mighty handy.

Grayers Bayswater CPO Shirt Jacket — $125

A classic shirt jacket is the perfect summer layer (and a great Father’s Day gift).

For chilly evenings manning the grill and hanging out by the fire, your dad needs a stylish shirt jacket (as do you). This durable shirt jacket from Grayers fits the  bill quite nicely, don’t you think?

Todd Snyder Knit Traveler Suit — $596

A stylish, comfortable, supremely cooll suit from one of America’s best menswear designers.

Hear me out: Perhaps your dad is a fan of classic-yet-modern tailoring, and heck, perhaps he has to wear suits a ton. If you know his measurements and want to go all-out, pick up one of the best summer suits right now from Todd Snyder. This is even a suit you can wear for travel — or even more crucially, at home when required. There’ll come a time when tailoring returns, and this is the right way to prepare. And if you yourself just need a stylish new suit? There you go.

Taylor Stitch Trail Shorts in Rust Cord — $88

Rugged, dependable, cool-as-heck shorts from Taylor Stitch.

We’ll go from talking about one of the best suits for men to something decidedly more casual — the best new shorts for summer. As to be expected, Taylor Stitch has made these retro trail shorts the right way, in a seriously cool Rust Cord fabric. Perfect to pair with your favorite summer sneakers.

Timex Q Timex Watch — $180

Dad’s new favorite watch? Very probable.

If you don’t quite have Shinola-levels of cash to drop on your father this year, go instead for this affordable watch for Father’s Day — a stone-cold classic from Timex, fresh from the brand’s extensive archives. We’ve recommended it before here on the blog, but it’s worth calling out again. He’ll want to wear it all the time (preferably with his Flint and Tinder Poplin Shirt, yes?).

GREATS Court High Sneakers — $209

Iconic high-top sneakers for you or dad this season.

Can you wear high-top sneakers for summer, even when it’s hot out? I think so, yes — just pair them with lightweight chinos and a breezy slub tee, for starters. Oh, and encourage your dad to do the same when you buy these stylish sneakers for him (wink, wink).

GORUCK x Huckberry GR1 “Slick” 21-Liter Bag — $295

The rugged backpack your outdoor excursions need.

The good folks at Huckberry and GORUCK have teamed up one of the toughest backpacks you’re apt to find. If you or your dad values time spent outdoors, might as well gear up with one of the best backpacks for this season (and the next … and the next … and the next!).

Fisher + Baker Radium Shirt — $138

A sharp short-sleeve shirt that just so happens to be a stylish Father’s Day gift.

Let’s talk about a classic summer shirt you can wear with, say, some retro trail shorts. Now that you’ve got that scenario in mind, imagine all the ways in which you can rock this stylish short-sleeve shirt (made from breathable hemp and organic cotton) from Fisher + Baker. It could be one of the best short-sleeve shirts for summer … but you’ll have to try it to find out.

Mott and Bow Oliver Slim Jeans — $118

The coolest jeans to pick up for yourself and your dad this season.

Perhaps you (or your dad) could use some of the best new denim out there. For upgrading your jeans in a hurry in terms of fit and fabric, go with Mott and Bow, longtime favorites on the blog. The best jeans to buy for your dad? Well, I certainly think so.

Billy Reid Snap Front Workshirt — $191.28

Get this tough-yet-stylish workshirt from Billy Reid.

For the dad who values rugged style, there’s hardly a better gift than something masterful from Billy Reid. In this case, a tough workshirt with some serious styling potential is just the ticket. It’s the perfect workshirt to wear atop a classic white tee — just add your favorite denim.

JACHS NY Rust Plaid Shirt — $99

A breezy and cool shirt for summer.

If there’s one thing I know, it’s that this casual and breezy shirt from JACHS NY was made for summer. It’s the perfect gift for the laidback, stylish dad.

Whiskey: A Tasting Course Book — $25

A great gift for the dad who enjoys a nice pour of whiskey every now and again.

The  best gift for the dad who loves whiskey? Well, in addition to the best whiskey accessories or a bottle of the good stuff, it might work out nicely to snag this whiskey tasting book from the ever-so-cool Bespoke Post Father’s Day Shop.

Now, that’s going to do it for today’s guide to the best new men’s gear. Did you find what you were looking for? More importantly, are you leaving here today with one of the best gifts for Father’s Day? I sure hope so. I  know we covered a lot of ground, from the best gift for the dad who loves whiskey to stylish picks like retro trail shorts from Taylor Stitch, a standout all-in-one cast iron grill, a seriously cool camp collar shirt from Todd Snyder … it can be tough to narrow it all down! My favorite, though? I’m biased, but I’ve got my eyes on the Shinola Daily Wear Watch myself. To let me know how your shopping is going, or to connect on the daily, follow me on Twitter. Thanks for reading, stay safe & enjoy the rest of your week!

by Beau H.

#OOTD: This is How You Should Wear High-Top Sneakers This Summer

There are assuredly certain pieces every guy needs in his summer wardrobe, certain pieces that can go the distance time and time again. So it goes with classic high-top sneakers, and with that, I’m inviting you to join us for another entry in our #OOTD series. We’ve previously talked about how to wear classic white sneakers here on the blog, and today, we’re building another ensemble around some of the best sneakers for men — the  best high-top sneakers around, no less. The right pair of high-top sneakers (as with the below GREATS Royale High Blanco) are dressy enough to be worn outside the home (when the time comes), yet they function remarkably well throughout plenty of other seasonal dressing occasions — especially of the “relaxing on the porch” variety. The key comes in finding the right pieces with which to wear your new summer sneakers, so that means we’re going breezy with a lightweight summer shirt and some classic men’s chinos (also made out of remarkably light fabric). Places in which to wear white sneakers might seem a little few and far between these days, especially given the state of the world, but I’d say that as with most style advice right  now, keep these suggestions handy when better days roll around — and if you feel like going all out and dressing in style at home, then the best white high-top sneakers certainly won’t let you down. Have any thoughts as to what you want to see on the blog? Feel free to drop me a line via Twitter.

Crisp and classic white high-top sneakers to wear this summer.

  • The Sneakers: GREATS Brand Royale High Blanco, $199 — Yes, when shopping for your new favorite sneakers, you’d do very well indeed to consider the GREATS Royale High Blanco. Sharply designed and wearable with plenty of summer style essentials, they’re a new #OOTD centerpiece.
  • The Shirt: Grayers Portofino Featherweight Poplin Shirt, $98 — The best pairing alongside new high-top sneakers? A breezy, stylish summer shirt, as in the Portofino Poplin Shirt from Grayers. It’ll be a new everyday summer shirt (quite possibly), given the easygoing wearability.
  • The Tee: Mott and Bow Carlton Heavyweight Pocket Tee, $35 — Now, not every single day is going to call for layering up with a stylish pocket tee, but on chilly summer nights, you’ll be glad you picked up this classic summer tee (perhaps a three-pack) from the makers of your favorite denim — right?
  • The Pants: Flint and TInder Lightweight Stretch Chinos, $98 — Leave it to Flint and Tinder to  craft some of the best chinos for summer (heck, some of the best men’s chinos — period).
  • The Watch: About Vintage 1926 At’sea, $375 — A classic dive watch is an easy style pick most days, especially when you’re going with classic white high-top sneakers on your feet. Plus, this About Vintage watch is waterproof to 200 meters, making it quite the versatile timepiece for summer.
  • The Belt: Billykirk No. 117 Mechanic’s Belt, $99.99 — The seemingly small accessories make a huge difference, and so it goes with one of the best men’s leather belts. As always, Billykirk gets it right.
  • The Sunglasses: Tens Weston Sunglasses, $111 — In short, Tens are unlike anything you’ve ever worn before — cool shades like the Weston Sunglasses are made with custom filter lenses that literally change your outlook through rich colorways (and they just so happen to be stylish as all-get-out).
  • The Grooming Essentials: MANTL Daily Routine Set, $65.98 — Especially in the hot summer months, keeping your skin in shape is crucial. Do so with some of the best men’s grooming essentials from MANTL right here.

It might seem odd to think about ways to wear white sneakers when so many of our summer plans have changed — but hey, that style inspiration is still critical. And if I know one thing, it’s that wearing the GREATS Royale High Blanco is going to be quite fun, no matter where you take ’em. When you’ve got such a crisp, essential pair of leather sneakers, the right complementary pieces can be a bit more subtle (but no less stylish) — hence, go with a stylish summer shirt in a classic navy colorway from Grayers. Then, throw it on atop a stylish pocket T-shirt from Mott and Bow — any of the above colorways work just fine, especially if you wear your Grayers shirt unbuttoned. To polish things up ever so slightly without overdoing it during the heat of the season, some of the best chinos for summer are the right move. In short, you know you can count on Flint and Tinder to deliver quality and plenty of stretch via this pair. Because we’re going classic and sharp with this ensemble, the classic dive watch on your wrist is a smart move in terms of functionality and style points. You’ll need to keep time between sipping your favorite summer beer and manning the grill, after all. Keep it all together with one of the best men’s leather belts, a critical accessory every guy needs (especially that investment-worthy leather belt as shown above from Billykirk). I’m also a big fan of statement-making accessories like the Weston Sunglasses from Tens, so let’s go bold and have some fun here. To round it all out, make sure you’re keeping fresh and in good shape with some of the best men’s grooming essentials, OK? Alright, alright, alright. Again, if you want to chat menswear or see how I’m wearing my own high-top sneakers this summer, head to my Instagram or find me on Twitter.