by Beau H.

The List: Here’s All The Best New Gear You Need This Month

The right jacket for the job — among this week’s other gear picks.

Contemplating what to buy and what to wear right now, this very instant? I’ve got you covered with the best new menswear, so contemplate no more — this week’s edition of The List has all the best new gear to buy right now, from your new favorite spring jacket (shown above) to essential leather dress shoes, stylish spring shirting and plenty more. These are trying times we live in, but the best gear is still a must, even if you make use of it for solo hikes rather than crowded bar jaunts. For times like these, where blustery weather can often get the best of you, you need gear that can pass muster — that goes for the office as well as happy hour. Starting with the Relwen Sailcloth Tanker  shown above, I promise we’ve got you covered. So, let’s get right to it.

Relwen Peached Sailcloth Tanker — $298

Durable, dependable and ready to layer.

The time has come to layer up with one of the best spring jackets, and it’s an indisputable fact that the Relwen Sailcloth Tanker is the right jacket for the job. It’s water and wind-resistant, and made from a lightweight poly-cotton blend. It’s the perfect jacket for spring travel, I should think.

HELM Boots Nils Natural Leather Dress Shoes — $285

Clean, sleek dress shoes for your next spring wedding or day on the job.

You know those stylish leather dress shoes I mentioned above? Here they are, courtesy of Austin-based HELM Boots. They’re classic leather dress shoes made from leather that’ll only get better over time. Wear them with slim charcoal chinos this spring. On that note …

Flint and Tinder 365 Pants in Slate — $98

Step out just about anywhere in these stylish pants.

As reliable a standy as it gets — and a longtime favorite of the blog — the Flint and Tinder 365 Pants (especially in the Slate shade shown here) are some of the best men’s five-pocket pants your money can buy, perfect to pair with classic leather dress shoes and a crisp Oxford shirt any day of the week (more on that in a moment, though).

Buck Mason Perfect Oxford One Pocket Shirt — $95

A newly classic Oxford shirt up for the taking.

Are you sensing the start of a great ensemble here? From some of the best men’s five-pocket pants to the inclusion of classic leather dress shoes, all that’s missing is an essential Oxford shirt. In a fitting early spring color, Buck Mason steps up and delivers your new favorite shirt.

Taylor Stitch Apres Hoodie in Heather Grey — $118

The best hooded sweatshirt for your weekend style pursuits.

Hey, not every day is going to be a day to throw on an Oxford shirt and head to the office. For casual weekend style pursuits, the best men’s hooded sweatshirt will do. And with that, you need the Taylor Stitch Apres Hoodie. Wear it over a classic slub tee. Which reminds me …

Mott and Bow Driggs Classic Tee — $162 (6-Pack)

A 6-pack of classic tees you can wear as often as you please for spring.

Get a stylish T-shirt for (nearly) every day of the week — and in classic, versatile, easy-to-layer colors from Mott and Bow. The quality is evident when it comes to these, seeing as they’re made with the same care as the brand’s stylish denim. All that adds up to some of the best men’s T-shirts for spring, easily.

Grayers Olsen Stripe Shirt — $88

The right striped shirt for all your spring style needs.

Grayers delivers the stylish, breezy shirt you need for spring, and then some. This striped short-sleeve buttondown is made from soft, comfortable fabric, so it’s ideal to pair with, say, some of the best men’s five-pocket pants.

Wellen Hemp Polo — $58

A breezy polo to wear with your new favorite chinos (and more).

Speaking of stylish short-sleeve shirts for spring, allow me to introduce you to your new favorite polo — the Wellen Hemp Polo is ready for nearly anything, from happy hour to a day at the office.

About Vintage 1926 At’Sea Watch — $375

Durable, rugged and dependable — that’s what this watch brings to your collection.

What could be cooler or more essential for spring than a rugged dive watch? Especially one made with vintage style in mind? Folks, there’s truly not much, and that’s why this About Vintage 1926 At’Sea Watch is one of the best men’s dive watches to buy right now.

NICESTUFF Clothing Short-Sleeve Shirt — $115

The right short-sleeve shirt to reach for this spring.

As you can see from this post, we’re all about some of the best men’s short-sleeve shirts for spring, especially this finely tailored and ever-so-slightly dressy number from NICESTUFF Clothing. It’s made with melange knit fabric and perfect for layering with a lightweight spring sweater (or wearing on its own, at that).

Relwen French Loop Crewneck — $118

A lightweight crewneck that’ll turn into an essential layer this spring.

Yes indeed, we turn to more gear from Relwen here — we started this post off with one of the best spring jackets, and it’s high time we kept things rolling with a stylish lightweight sweater. This French Terry crewneck is one of the best layers this season has to offer, undoubtedly.

VANS x J. Crew Era Sneakers — $60

Classic and easygoing spring sneakers for everyday wear.

That’s right — for only $60, you’re getting some of the coolest men’s sneakers around, and from a fruitful partnership from two iconic brands. These two-tone VANS x J. Crew Era Sneakers are as good as it gets. Wear ’em with a stylish lightweight sweater and some of the best men’s five-pocket pants.

Flint and Tinder Stretch Selvage Jeans — $148

Rugged-yet0classic dark blue denim from Flint and Tinder.

OK, so we’re here again with some of the best men’s pants — and they’re coming once more from Flint and Tinder. The Flint and Tinder Stretch Selvage Jeans have everything you love about a stylish pair of denim, yet they’re easier to wear thanks to that crucial stretch. In short, yes, they’re your new favorite pair of jeans.

Ratio Coffee Ratio 6 Coffee Maker — $375

The perfect coffee maker for a perfect cup of coffee.

Hey, let’s close this roundup of the best men’s gear out with a real shot in the arm, ehh? For your weekend adventures and your workday pursuits, you need a great cup of coffee — and the Ratio Coffee Ratio 6 Coffee Maker is assuredly going to deliver that to you.

OLIVERS

So, that brings us to the end of another edition of The List. What new spring gear do you have your eye on? Perhaps an essential home good like the Ratio Coffee Ratio 6 Coffee Maker is going in your shopping cart? Or else, what about your work day style demands — in that regard, picks like classic leather dress shoes  or your new favorite shirt are the way to go. One thing is clear: The demands of the season, both in matters of style and weather, have never been greater — right? So, equip yourself accordingly, then let me know what you think of these gear picks on Twitter.

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Grayers Ergo Shirt Jacket

Here’s the rugged shirt jacket you’ll be wearing all spring.

Here we are on the verge of another spring weekend, and if it wasn’t clear by now, it should be clear to you starting, well, today: One of the best men’s shirt jackets is going to be an invaluable layer for this season, a  surefire go-to you’ll wear all the time. And with that being said, the Grayers Ergo Shirt Jacket is as fine an example of any as an essential layer for spring. A tough, rugged-yet-versatile shirt jacket is just what a spring weekend like this one calls for, in fact. But right off the bat: If you’re not familiar with Grayers, this is a brand worth knowing (and wearing). The brand was born from co-founder Peter Georgiou’s time at Ralph Lauren and his love of history & menswear classics — Grayers was a nickname given to trousers worn by British schoolboys; these trousers eventually made their way to America as the country puts its own spin on prep classics. Pretty neat, right? And that same heritage and history carries through today with this military-inspired, rugged shirt jacket. It’s part of the excellent Grayers Spring Collection, which features classic shirting, durable outerwear and slim chinos (for example, the Grayers Newport Chinos as previously covered on the blog). But what makes the Grayers Ergo Shirt Jacket stand out from a crowded field of spring layering options? Allow me.

OLIVERS

SHOP: The Grayers Ergo Shirt Jacket

The details make the difference when it comes to Grayers.

The best shirt jackets for men feature some intangible (and tangible) qualities, for starters. The right shirt jacket should be able to function with ease atop everything from a classic white tee to your favorite henley — all the while, fitting trim but not too tight. The Grayers Ergo Shirt Jacket checks these boxes quite nicely and looks great while doing it — the midweight cotton twill and Olive Night color ensure seasonally friendly versatility that’s so crucial this time of year. The details are also on point when it comes to this rugged shirt jacket. The shoulder epaulets channel seriously cool military style inspiration, while the front button chest pockets offer room for your everyday carry essentials (and then some). And as if this stylish shirt jacket wasn’t functional enough, it features both zip and front-button closures — those small touches make it the perfect spring travel jacket, especially when worn with, say, slim light wash denim and your favorite chukka boots. If you hadn’t yet considered the Grayers Ergo Shirt Jacket to be indispensable in your spring wardrobe, it’s time to start thinking of it that way.

SHOP: The Grayers Ergo Shirt Jacket

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: The Best Comedies on Amazon Prime, A Faherty Brand Sale & Supporting Small Businesses

Folks, thanks once again for swinging through to check out another Friday Read during evermore strange, trying times. If you’d like to take your mind off the news — and who wouldn’t, at this point?? — I submit to you one of the latest spring style essentials from Buck Mason. The Striped Field-Spec Cotton Surplus Crew is a perfect casual spring layering pick, one you can certainly wear atop a stylish Oxford shirt on a casual day  working from home, a solitary stroll or perhaps, a quick jaunt fo fill up your favorite growler at your favorite brewery. At least, I certainly hope that’s something you can access at the moment. As for me, I’ve been spending lots of time listening to my favorite records, drinking coffee, writing, and of course — during the week — holding down the fort at my social media agency day job (from afar, naturally). My writing work is ongoing at GearMoose if you’re of the mind to stock up on some new EDC essentials or other key gear picks, too. In fact, I just wrote about some of the best hand creams for men, a crucial necessity as we all head to the sink more and more to keep our hands germ-free. Today’s Friday Read is going to focus on a healthy dose of menswear, but I’m also of the mind that you can do that while giving back. We’re looking at brands you know and love like Taylor Stitch, and maybe one or two you’re not as familiar with. If you want to keep up with what I’m reading and enjoying at the moment, follow me on Instagram. In the meantime, stay safe & thanks for reading.

Kick back and shop this standout menswear sale for a limited time.

  • Let’s dive into one of the best men’s sales to shop now, shall we? We all seem to have quite a bit more time to shop online these days, so why not check out the excellent Faherty Brand sitewide sale. In fact, you  can start with the outstanding Faherty Brand Movement Shirt, pictured above. Sitewide sales are a rarity coming from a retailer that makes some of the best men’s casual gear, so get ready to take 25 percent off SITEWIDE for a limited time, with the discount automatically applied at checkout. It’s a standout sale that’ll pay serious dividends in terms of breezy spring style essentials (as shown above!), so start shopping. Again, 25 percent off at Faherty Brand … it sounds great to me.
  • We’ve all been talking a lot lately about “flattening the curve” to deal with the coronavirus pandemic, and I’ve no doubt you’ve been doing your part. But what if … you could do more? Shop and give back at the same time, that is to say? Well, men’s lifestyle and golf brand Linksoul has launched a charity T-shirt campaign to give back to the Center for Disaster Philanthropy, and you’d do well to get acquainted with the cause. How does it work? Pre-order a limited-edition Linksoul T-shirt (designed by brand co-founder and artist Geoff Cunningham), and 100 percent of the proceeds go to the CDP. The limited-edition graphic T-shirts will ship out at the end of April, and right now, who couldn’t find a spot in their closet for a stylish tee that gives back? Do your part by visiting Linksoul online this weekend.
  • In the way of other neat and surprisingly positive news related to COVID-19, my good friends at Taylor Stitch have launched a new social campaign — #StandSmall — to support their favorite small businesses and encourage their followers do the same. The campaign features a #StandSmall directory that the brand is updating, and they’ll add your recommendations to the list! Be it through online or delivery orders, merch purchases or donations, I’m willing to bet your favorite local coffee shop, bar or restaurant is doing something to support its community  and its employees during this time.  On that note, Taylor Stitch launched a seriously cool coffee and menswear collab with Arizona creative shop and cafe FourTillFour that’s worth your time (I have some of the coffee on the way!).  Oh, and another note on Taylor Stitch: They’re running an indefinite 25 percent off sale. Get your hands on the best new men’s gear now.
  • To close things out: I’m guessing we could all use a little something to lift our spirits, yes? In that case, I’d suggest checking out the best comedies to watch on Amazon Prime (if in fact you have it) — Vulture curated this list, and there are some old-school throwbacks (pre-World War II) and new, under-the-radar sleepers (literally — “Under the Silver Lake” was a highly enjoyable watch for me last weekend). Enjoy!

That’s going to cap off this edition of The Friday Read. Ideally, you’ve got something new to watch, read or shop this weekend. I’d also recommend you check out the always-excellent mix of spring style essentials on display at Huckberry — they’ve not lost a step yet. Of course, the Huckberry Journal is a never-not-interesting take on what to read, shop and listen to during these trying times and weekends at home — I can’t recommend it enough for when you think you’ve run out of things to read or ways to enrich your mind. Alright, my friends: Be good to each other, stay safe, take care of yourself, and we’ll see you here tomorrow for my Style Pick of the Week. Thanks for reading!

-Beau

by Beau H.

See Now, Buy Now: The Bespoke Post Indigo Box Has Spring’s Most Affordable Overshirt

Here’s your new favorite layer for spring — guaranteed.

Let’s get one thing straight: There might not be a better deal on the market than an expertly curated Bespoke Post Box, and there might not be a better overshirt for spring than the one found in the Bespoke Post Indigo Box. That seems to be the case whether you head out on a walk with a partner or go solo in the name of social distancing — this is the layer you need now, and then some. If you’ve read the blog before, you know that I personally can’t get enough when it comes to Bespoke Post Boxes — the variety, the versatility, the durability … it’s all on point. So, that’s where we are to start today’s See Now, Buy Now entry — who’s ready to hop right in with one of the best men’s overshirts? These early days of April can present a bit of a taxing challenge in terms of spring style essentials. In the morning, you might be dealing with gusty winds and rain on your commute, yet by the time happy hour rolls around, the sun is shining and that rain jacket is no longer needed. And yet … your wardrobe needs something else. It needs a rugged indigo overshirt, the kind of layer that works all day long, and atop menswear picks as varied as a slub T-shirt or a faded chambray shirt (yes, you can do denim on denim here).

SHOP: The Bespoke Post Indigo Box

The great thing about a rugged denim overshirt is, again, that critical versatility — we’re talking office-ready style (when layered atop a white Oxford shirt and paired with slim tan chinos), as well as the kind of rugged good looks that fit right in at your favorite brewery. But perhaps the best — and most crucial — part about this classic denim overshirt? The fact that it’s affordable as heck — just $45 when you sign up for Bespoke Post. That in and of itself means you’re getting monthly access to the kind of deals that can only be found in Bespoke Post Boxes, and they run the gamut from outdoor gear to menswear to home goods. And yes, the Bespoke Post Indigo Box is quite simply as good as it gets on the menswear front. If you haven’t considered the humble-yet-classic denim overshirt, now’s your chance to get on the bandwagon.

SHOP: The Bespoke Post Indigo Box

by Beau H.

#OOTD: Try Out A New Way to Wear a Western Shirt for Spring

If you thought you had your spring style all figured out, well, think again. That’s not to say the menswear essentials you know and love for the season should be shelved in favor of today’s #OOTD — but consider this new guide to wearing a Western shirt as another addition to your arsenal of tricks (and great layers).Every guy needs to shake up his style now and then, even during a period of self-isolation, and this is but one way to do that. Simply put: Your new favorite spring shirt is coming at you courtesy of Taylor Stitch x Stetson, and features the rugged good looks and classic styling potential you need right now. Put simply, the below #OOTD is but another way to dress for both the work week (yes, even at home!) and the weekend — pieces like one of the best spring jackets for men help ensure that versatility, as do rugged leather chukka boots. This is a look that’s going to go over very well, whether grabbing to-go coffee or to-go cocktails these days. Consider this the perfect hybrid of both daily style and weekend-ready potential — the classic cool of a Western shirt is a unique change of pace from your favorite Oxford shirt (for example), but daily standbys like slim Mott and Bow chinos elevate things beyond the average. This is an ensemble you can throw on and then, well, forget about — but other people are going to notice, and in the right way. Casual, cool, rugged, versatile … can it get any better? Not quite. Check out the full look below, then let me know on Twitter where you plan to rock it.

Pairing up a rugged Western shirt with other menswear essentials.

There are quite a few ways to rock your new favorite spring shirt, and hopefully, this #OOTD has you thinking about how to take care of business. The key here has got to be the fact that this rugged Western shirt is just different enough from your standard fare, making it easy to wear at the office, on the weekend, at a spring music festival … and indeed, beyond that. When you pair up this Taylor Stitch shirt with the best men’s chinos and of course, one of the best spring jackets for men, you’re looking at the ultimate in go-anywhere versatility and style. To keep things moving forward in sharp style, throw on a pair of the most versatile men’s boots, then accent the entire look with the durable and affordable Timex Welton Watch — talk about a can’t-miss combo that’s both understated and extremely stylish at the same time. Topping things off (literally) with some Duke Cannon pomade keeps your hair sharp and in check, and you’re going to get around in functional, tough style with a rugged tote bag — again, go-anywhere versatility is critical. On the accessories front, this look wouldn’t be complete without some of the best socks for men — don’t overlook the little things, folks. Keep in mind that when your base is a tough spring jacket and a cool-as-can-be Western shirt, the world of possibilities is endless — well, nearly endless. To see what I’m wearing this spring, head to my Instagram.

by Beau H.

The List: Prepare for Spring with All the Best New Menswear to Buy This Week

These rugged chukka boots are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to spring style picks today.

Are you fully into the spirit of spring yet? Not quite? Well, we’re going to get you there with today’s edition of The List, and that’s no April Fool’s. The best men’s gear for spring runs the gamut, all the way from tough leather chukka boots (like the pairs shown above) to some of the best men’s jeans for spring — and we’ve also got a new spring craft beer and some men’s grooming essentials for the taking, too. So, dive right in and let’s get into a new season — and your favorite new gear picks.

Rancourt & Co. Acadia Chukka Boots — $280

These could become your new favorite chukka boots.

Your search for spring-ready chukka boots just ended early, as we mentioned it would above. If you’ve slept on picking up some rugged leather chukka boots from Rancourt & Co. as of yet, you’ll want to get on these — they’re extremely wearable with everything from slim chinos to light wash jeans. On that note …

Mott and Bow Slim Benson Jeans — $118

Slim jeans in a perfect wash for spring? Sign me up!

Versatile, easy to wear with the rest of your spring style essentials, not to mention incredibly affordable given the quality … that’s what the Mott and Bow Slim Benson Jeans are offering up this season. Yes, you need a pair of the best men’s jeans for spring right now.

Bespoke Post Refresh Box — $45

All the grooming picks you need for a new season.

It’s almost too easy to find exactly what you need at Bespoke Post — especially when you consider the classic lineup of Bespoke Post Boxes, featuring affordable men’s gear like the best grooming essentials. Yes indeed, the Bespoke Post Refresh Box is a stone-cold classic, and it also includes a stylish dopp kit.

Western Rise StrongCore Merino Tee — $96

A fine T-shirt from a brand that knows how to make ’em the right way.

Now that the thermostat is starting to climb again, you need to break out some of the best men’s gear for spring — to be more specific, welcome the return of T-shirt weather with one of the best men’s tees. The Western Rise StrongCore Merino Tee is made with some of the best fabric on the planet.

Buck Mason Denim Two-Pocket Field Shirt — $145

Your new favorite spring layer? Yes, yes indeed.

Let’s carry on with more of the best layers for spring, shall we? Buck Mason makes some of the toughest, most durable menswear around, and the Denim Two-Pocket Field Shirt blends the wearability of your favorite denim jacket with a cool-as-can-be shirt jacket design. Wear it atop the Western Rise StrongCore Merino Tee for laidback weekend style.

Centric Instruments Lightwell Pilot Chronograph — $330

Meet your new favorite daily watch.

Regardless of season, every guy needs a rugged everyday watch — especially one that can be worn with, say, the Denim Two-Pocket Field Shirt shown above. Centric Instruments blends affordability and dependability with this handsome pilot chronograph.

by Humankind Mouth Wash — $10

Sustainable mouthwash that’s also easy to use.

In addition to the the best grooming essentials I called out earlier, let’s also consider your dental hygiene — by Humankind’s mouth wash is natural and high-quality, and comes complete with a reusable container for extra sustainability. Plus, $1 of your container purchase helps to remove ocean plastic waste.

Barbour Long-Sleeve Indigo Buttondown — $119

A durable, cool buttondown from a legendary brand.

You surely know Barbour thanks to the brand’s incredible commitment to making the best men’s outerwear — but what about some of the best men’s shirting? This classic plaid buttondown is a fine spring wardrobe move at the office or on the weekend.

Taylor Stitch The Hyde Shirt in White Royal Oxford — $98

A crisp, classic white dress shirt for your spring style needs.

So, we just talked about one of the best casual shirts for men — but what about the tailored white dress shirt every guy (arguably) needs in his wardrobe? For spring weddies, dinner parties & the office, get the Taylor Stitch Hyde Shirt, one of the best white dress shirts for men.

Grayers Paragon Quilted Featherweight Jacket — $165

A tough-yet-lightweight quilted jacket to get the job done this year.

As we move into April, you’re going to need to ramp up your outerwear game accordingly — this lightweight quilted jacket from Grayers is one of the best men’s jackets for spring, complete with classic versatility and good looks.

Olivina Men Cleansing Charcoal Shampoo — $14

The right shampoo to freshen your ‘do this spring.

Charcoal (in this case, charcoal powder) continues to be one of the most effective ingredients when it comes to men’s grooming essentials, and it’s fitting that the Olivina Men Cleansing Charcoal Shampoo makes great use of it.

Relwen Stretch Windpants — $188

Durable, rugged sweatpants to wear all spring.

This assuredly isn’t the first time we’ve talked about Relwen on the blog, and it won’t be the last. For comfortable spring weekend style, you need some of the best men’s sweatpants — as in, the Relwen Stretch Windpants.

Baboon 40-Liter Go Bag — $149

This sleek daily bag will go anywhere you need it to go this spring.

When duty calls, when you’ve got to hit the road on a spring adventure, the right everyday travel bag is a must — the Baboon 40-Liter Go Bag features tons of versatility and dependable functionality.

5.11Tactical Defender-Flex Range Pants — $69.99

Durable canvas pants you can wear on the road or at the office.

For spring, you can never have enough rugged pants for everyday wear — especially if you spend a lot of time outdoors or appreciate a great spring adventure. With a mobile fit and hard-wearing fabric, the 5.11 Tactical Defender-Flex Range Pants get the job done.

Sufferfest Head Start Stout — Price Varies

A flavorful stout that also happens to be low in calories.

It wouldn’t be a list of the best men’s gear without taking a look at some tasty craft beer, would it? The Sufferfest Head Start Stout is the rare stout that helps you cut calories without cutting flavor (Sufferfest brews its beer with athletes in mind, after all).

Olivers Apparel Passage Pants — $148

Versatile pants fit for travel and the office in equal measure.

Alright, last but not least … let’s close things out the right way by talking about some of the best men’s pants, period. Olivers Apparel makes gear for the active guy on the go, and that includes these slim five-pocket pants. Whether you wear ’em for travel or a day at the office, the Olivers Apparel Passage Pants (made with CORDURA fabric and 4-way stretch) won’t let you down.

So, my friends — that’s going to do it for today’s edition of The List. Do you have a favorite gear pick? Perhaps it’s the versatile Olivers Apparel Passage Pant or a lightweight quilted jacket from Grayers? Maybe you want to lace uyp with Rancourt & Co. chukka boots or step out with some slim Mott and Bow denim? Whatever your preference might be, be sure to join me on Twitter to talk all things #menswear. Until next time, thanks for reading!

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Mott and Bow Laight Slim Wash Light Jeans

Utterly classic slim jeans that are a winner any day of the week this spring.

If you’ve been regularly checking your calendar, you’ll notice that we’re past St. Patrick’s Day and barreling toward spring properly now — that means, of course, that you need spring style essentials. And to be more specific: You need a pair of the best light wash jeans for spring, and that’s where Mott and Bow can assuredly help you out. If you read the  blog on the regular (as you should!), you’ll notice that the company frequently makes some of the best jeans on the market, period — that goes for the coolest black jeans you’ve ever seen, as well as classic, winter-ready denim. But again, let’s shift our attention toward the slim light wash jeans you need to be wearing right now. We talked last summer about these slim jeans for warm weather, and it’s the right time to revisit ’em. Warmer weather means lighter fabrics, lighter colors and generally more casual style, so welcome it wholeheartedly with the Mott and Bow Laight Jeans, I say. And when it comes to Mott and Bow denim, you should rest easy knowing you’re getting the most bang for your buck (these jeans retail for $118, after all). In this case, the Mott and Bow Laight Jeans are made with 98 percent cotton and 2 percent elastane for ever-critical comfort and stretch. The hits just keep coming, though.

SHOP: The Mott and Bow Laight Jeans

Shop Western Rise Now

Tailored, not-too-tight jeans from Mott and Bow.

It can be tough to find slim light wash jeans that fit the bill (pun very much intended) in terms of how they drape and move. Once again, Mott and Bow comes to the rescue with some of the best men’s denim, all made to fit every body type (Slim, Straight and Skinny fits take care of that). I think you’re going to find that the Mott and Bow Laight Jeans aren’t too skinny, nor are they too baggy — they fit just right. What’s more, with Mott and Bow‘s design process, you’re getting the kind of expertly faded (stonewashed, to be exact) denim that feels great right out of the box. For the guy on the go (that’s you!) who wants to wear stylish light wash jeans with everything from a classic white tee and high-top sneakers to a navy cotton blazer and classic suede chukkas, that versatility in design (not to mention comfort and fit) is critical. And one last point: While the Mott and Bow Laight Jeans  are nicely made for the weekend — throw on your favorite hooded sweatshirt and get out the door — these are also jeans you can wear to the office, particularly with a grey slub polo and the aforementioned classic suede chukkas. The world of style possiblities is nearly endless when it comes to Mott and Bow jeans, so snag this pair and get started exploring.

SHOP: The Mott and Bow Laight Jeans

Shop Western Rise Now

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: The Best Multi-Tool for Home, A New Spring Lager and Boots for A Good Cause

Wear this tough shirt jacket when working at home or working in the garage – easily.

Thank you, my friends, for joining me for another edition of The Friday Read during these oh-so-interesting and incredibly trying times. Whether you’re working from home and seeking a respite from the news or else seeking a respite from being on the front lines of this crisis, I sincerely appreciate you reading — and I hope these weekly missives (and other blog content!) can help provide some comfort and a sense of style on the daily. Speaking of style on the daily — maybe that Flint and Tinder Bedford Camp Shirt can come in handy as a rugged shirt jacket for home projects, yard work or else, as a change of pace on a casual day working in your home office? By now, perhaps you’ve settled into a daily routine as you juggle working from home — balancing your kids’ and your spouse’s different schedules, adjusting to new changes in the workspace digitally, and really … trying to keep everything moving forward.

That’s been the case for me in Brooklyn when it comes to both writing and my social media day job, although I’m continuing to support my favorite local businesses from afar as much as I can. Last week, I bought some delicious coffee-for-delivery from Ninth Street Espresso (they have a location within the excellent Threes Brewing in Gowanus). I also took the time to donate a small amount to Bushwick’s Elsewhere — part music venue, part gallery, part bar and cafe, it’s an eclectic and important space that’s put on some excellent concerts in my life and always seems to offer something intriguing and enjoyable. Tell me on Twitter — are you supporting your favorite local businesses during this trying time? How are you adapting your Work-From-Home style (and might I suggest this #OOTD)? Stay safe, stay stylish & check out my favorite things to read, drink and watch this weekend.

  • First things first, let’s talk about some men’s style gear for a good cause. Namely, Austin-based HELM Boots is doing its part — you can get 20 percent off all  boots at HELM Boots through Sunday with the code “giveback”, and what’s more, 10 percent of all sales are going to charities supporting COVID-19 relief efforts (like Meals on Wheels, No Kid Hungry & AmeriCares). Again, 20 percent off through Sunday, and sales of these stylish boots are absolutely going to a great cause.
  • It certainly might seem counterintuitive to pick up everyday carry essentials right now (especially if the most activity you’ll be doing is yard work before retreating inside), but for all those projects around the house that just can’t wait, there’s the Deploy EDC Kit from my pals at Bespoke Post. With that utility in mind, I wrote about this EDC must-have over at GearMoose — click through for more.
  • As the headline promised, I told you I’d give you the scoop on one of the best new beers for spring. In this case, you should head over to GearMoose to read about the light, clean and refreshing New Belgium Purist Lager, made with organic ingredients and incredibly fresh water. I’m a big fan, and I think you will be, too (even if you’re just sipping on it on your back porch — socially distanced sipping, that is). Cheers!
  • Mark my words, I’m certainly not an expert … but there will come a time when you’ve got to dash out of the house this spring, and you’re going to want to look put-together in one of the best men’s jackets while doing it. All of this is to say, how about you head on over to The Manual and check out my guide to the best lightweight jackets for spring? Again, shopping can feel a little frivolous during times like these, but you’re supporting brands you love and prepping your wardrobe (and your future self!) for a bit of style when the time comes.

To be sure, these are odd times again — I’m sure buying a new Oxford shirt isn’t the first thing on your mind. But hey, for those of us fortunate enough to be working from home — and for those of us who have to hop on Zoom or Slack video conference calls — looking and feel a bit more put-together is a nice change of pace when you can’t get out of the house. Yet again, it’s with that approach in mind that I’m recommending you pick up one of the best Oxford shirts for men. Specifically, click that link to read all about a stellar Buck Mason Oxford shirt. OK, those are all of my reading (and watching, and imbibing) recommendations for this weekend. Want to get in touch on anything at all? Reach out on Twitter, and be sure to follow me on Instagram (I’m posting about what I’m reading, listening to and writing). Thanks so much for taking time out of your day to join me — stay safe, my friends.

by Beau H.

See Now, Buy Now: These Taylor Stitch Chukka Boots are Classic Boots for Spring

Stepping out in style this spring with rugged chukka boots from a classic brand.

If you’re anything like me, perhaps you’ve got quite the affinity for gear from San Francisco-based Taylor Stitch — from the brand’s rugged denim jackets to stellar shirting, these gear purveyors have been a longtime favorite of yours truly (going back to the early days of the blog, in fact!). And now, they’ve done it again with some of the best chukka boots for spring — heck, some of the best chukka boots on the market, period. As we work to transition our wardrobes slowly but surely toward warmer weather, classic leather chukka boots are as reliable a footwear option as it gets. Maybe you won’t need them right  now during these wild times of COVID-19 (yes, sorry, I went there!), but you will soon enough. Rest assured, you’ll hear plenty more about this style in the weeks and months to come, but for now, let’s talk about the Taylor Stitch Chukka Boots in Tumbled Sedona — again, folks, these are your new favorite chukka boots … easily. With a lighter weight than your tough snow boots, and a bit more polish than your favorite sneakers, there’s no question that these Taylor Stitch chukka boots (made from positively beautiful, supple 4oz. Sedona leather) check all the right boxes in matters of style and functionality.

SHOP: The Taylor Stitch Chukka Boots in Tumbled Sedona

The difference is in the details with these Taylor Stitch boots, per usual — and that’s a great thing indeed.

What’s more, some of the best men’s chukka boots will have serious staying power starting right now in early spring, then carrying over into summer & back to fall. Truly, you can rock these rugged chukka boots with the basics (I.E. A classic Taylor Stitch chambray shirt & slim chinos) and with more luxurious items (a breezy khaki cotton suit, for starters). And if you feel like keeping things casual & rocking these with a cotton pocket tee and faded blue denim? That’s a style move you should certainly make, no questions asked. The Vibram sole and Goodyear welt construction provide that crucial blend of durability and comfort — there might be a brief break-in period, based on my past experiences with Taylor Stitch boots, but once you’ve started wearing these classic chukka boots, you’ll find it tough to stop. And as with other Taylor Stitch menswear, you’ll assuredly find they get better the more you wear them. Don’t waste another second — shop these right now.

SHOP: The Taylor Stitch Chukka Boots in Tumbled Sedona

 

by Beau H.

#OOTD: How To Dress for a Breezy Spring Day Right Now

To me, it feels like we were just lacing up our rugged leather boots and gearing up for fall & winter, and yet, just as with the shifting tides of the ocean, the menswear world rolls on … and so here we are, talking new spring style essentials. The world is going pretty haywire right now, so all of these picks might not work right now as originally intended — but who said you don’t need great style at home? And who said you don’t need to gear up to get things done outside, too? More specifically, today’s look still provides a timely answer to that age-old question: “What do I wear this spring?” — and to be even more specific, what do I wear on a breezy spring day? The type of day that might unexpectedly bring rain & wind, yet you’ve still got to get out there? Today’s #OOTD steps right up and answers that question decisively, from the stylish rain jacket (via J. Crew) to the classic Blundstone boots that’ll help you navigate slick city streets and wet country roads in equal measure. The fact that the outfit ties in reliable standby pieces like a classic overshirt is a big positive, but rest assured, this is an outfit that’s still got some office-ready polish — that’s all owing to touches like versatile everyday pants from Western Rise, plus a classic everyday watch. We’re not abandoning layering in favor of full-on summer style just yet though, so a luxurious T-shirt is your critical base layer here (more on that in a moment). The key when it comes to dealing with spring weather? Being ready for anything, from unexpected rain to high winds to a late night FaceTime happy hour with friends, and so on. Today’s #OOTD will get you there, mark my words. If you like what you see, be sure to hit me up on Twitter to let me know. Thanks for reading!

Layers to help you fight spring rain, plus stylish accessories.

  • The Rain Jacket: J. Crew Brunswick Rain Jacket, $148 — J. Crew continues to expand its repetoire in new and pleasing ways, such as this ultra-stylish and functional rain jacket — quite possibly the perfect piece of spring outerwear.
  • The Rugged Overshirt: Flint and Tinder Chamois Overshirt, $138 — There’s a chance that breezy spring weather could get ever-so-slightly chillier than expected, and that’s where one of the best men’s overshirts from Flint and Tinder comes into play.
  • The Refined Tee: General Issue Short-Sleeve Tee, $85 — General Issue launched last year with a focus on making refined men’s basics, such as this expertly cut T-shirt — it’s ready to be layered with ease on a breezy spring day under your rugged overshirt, and it also looks great the rest of the time on its own.
  • The Pants: Western Rise Diversion Pants, $138 — For getting around in style this spring, reach for these new, versatile everyday pants from Western Rise — they’re abrasion-resistant and feature four-way stretch, so in short, they’re the perfect pants for your next spring adventure.
  • The Boots: Blundstone Original 550 Boots, $195 — Rain-ready, rugged and durable, the Blundstone Original 550 Boots are some of the best boots for spring (and well beyond) — regardless of how much it actually rains.
  • The Watch: Zodiac Super Sea Wolf 68, $1,395 — The demands of spring weather call for a tough everyday watch — and yes, the Zodiac Super Sea Wolf 68, while quite pricey (to say the least) is one of the best new watches to buy right now.
  • The Everyday Carry: Billykirk x Flint and Tinder Standard Issue Tote, $165 — No matter where you’re heading this spring, a rugged tote bag is the perfect everyday carry addition — and it helps that this stylish tote is from Billykirk & Flint and Tinder.
  • The Grooming Essential: Doji Natural Deodrant Spray, $10 — Keep your grooming on-point this season with a handy natural deodorant spray that just so happens to be very affordably priced.

Dealing with spring rain and breezy weather comes down to more than just throwing on a rain jacket and calling it a day — in the case of this ensemble, layers are ever-more critical with each passing day (and each passing storm, for that matter). Kicking things off with the excellent, highly functional J. Crew Brunswick Jacket is assuredly a smart move, as is adding one of the best men’s overshirts from Flint and Tinder — and to top it off, a premium T-shirt from General Issue adds both visual interest and comfort on a chilly spring day. When spring weather starts up though, anything can happen, so you assuredly need some of the best boots for spring — Blundstone has you taken care of. Those boots, while a bit bulky, are still able to readily pair with your versatile everyday pants from Western Rise — that combination should offer ease of movement and plenty of style (heck, I’ve tried out the Western Rise Diversion Pants and am a big fan of them). Now, it wouldn’t be a complete outfit with a durable, classic watch like the Zodiac Super Sea Wolf 68, would it? You’re investing in that timepiece, to be sure, but you’ll have it for years and years to come. And no matter what you’ve got to haul around — be it gear for work or your favorite book — a rugged tote bag will keep your everyday carry in fine form. And last but not least, stay fresh with a natural deodorant spray that’s quite easy to use. Does that about cover everything when it comes to versatile spring style? Why yes, yes I think it does.