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.

by Beau H.

The List: Buy This Gear to Upgrade Your Early Spring Style Right Now

Surf’s up … or at least, spring weather is in the air with Outerknown.

Can you feel it in the air? Sort of? Spring continues to roll through these parts, but it’s deceiving at times — as nice as it is to welcome the return of breezy days & start to break out your spring style essentials, you still need pieces that are as versatile as can be. That goes for adventuring out from home every so often just as much as it does for days spent staying inside during these wild times. As with the Outerknown High Tide Crew shown at the top of the page, you still might need layers that can take on breezy days, inclement weather and tough outdoor adventures (preferably solo, that is). In that regard, you’re in luck with today’s edition of The List. Feel free to let me know what you’re shopping over on Twitter.

Outerknown High Tide Crew — $98 

A breezy crewneck sweater that’s perfect for spring layering.

Spring has (sort of) sprung, and what better way to mark the return of pleasantly breezy days than with a classic crewneck sweatshirt made from soft French Terry — and one made sustainably by Outerknown, at that? Wear it with your favorite light wash jeans. Speaking of …

Mott and Bow Slim Laight Jeans — $118

Slim, classic denim in a pleasing light wash.

This won’t be the last time you hear about Mott and Bow denim on the blog this spring, especially considering how stylish light wash jeans are a perfect seasonal style essential. Be sure to pair them up with your classic crewneck sweatshirt on a vibrant spring day.

Patagonia Better Sweater Shelled Jacket — $179

A classic spring jacket you can wear just about anywhere.

It’s always worth considering adding a lightweight spring jacket to your seasonal outerwear rotation, and when that jacket comes from Patagonia, that’s all the better. This rugged spring jacket also features a DWR finish and 4-way stretch.

Common Projects B-Ball Low Sneakers — $482

Seriously sleek, sharp and premium white leather sneakers.

It’s not often that you find Common Projects sneakers recommended here on the blog, but as we head into a new season, you assuredly need some of the best white leather sneakers on the market, and again, Common Projects delivers.

Taylor Stitch Western Shirt in Natural Corded Denim — $125

This Western shirt is old-school yet classic at the same time.

Part of the remarkable Taylor Stitch x Stetson collab released earlier this year, this rugged Western shirt is a stone-cold classic that you can wear with stylish light wash jeans any day of the week (just add suede chukka boots). On that note …

Shoe The Bear Caleb Suede Chukka Boots — $180

Sharp, classic suede chukka boots you can wear all spring.

Here are those suede chukka boots I mentioned above — sleek, low-profile, versatile. They’re able to be worn on casual days with a crisp white tee and your stylish light wash jeans, and they can also work with slim natural chinos, a navy blazer and a blue Oxford shirt in casual style situations.

Western Rise Limitless Merino Shirt — $129

As versatile as it gets, especially for post-work happy hour.

You know Western Rise for the brand’s durable everyday pants, and you can add a stylish technical shirt to the mix now, as well. The Limitless Merino Shirt has plenty going for it: It’s moisture-wicking, wrinkle-resistant, temperature-regulating & odor-resistant — in short, it’s your new favorite everyday shirt.

Levi’s Made and Crafted Type 2 Worn Denim Trucker Jacket — $248

This is the rugged trucker jacket you can wear all spring — starting today.

There’s no time like the present to pick up a classic trucker jacket for spring, particularly when that trucker jacket comes to you courtesy of Levi’s.

Rogue Ales Dead Guy Ale — Price Varies 

Made in the style of a German Maibock, Dead Guy Ale is as good as it gets.

West Coast legends Rogue Ales have a strong commitment to the brewery’s heritage — and to quality beer. When you want a brew that’s got some rich flavor in a year-round style, turn toward the Dead Guy Ale, a new personal favorite. It’s the right option when it’s just a bit too chilly to turn toward a light lager in the spring months.

Buck Mason Felted Chore Coat — $225

An essential spring layer from Buck Mason.

As we mentioned earlier you still very well might need rugged layers through spring, including this tough chore coat from Buck Mason. Rock it over a T-shirt or over a stylish Buck Mason shirt at the office.

SOLO New England Anorak — $180

An update on the anorak, made for coastal adventures and crosscountry travel.

Made to be worn both on and off the golf course, as well as on and off the road, this sleek anorak from SOLO New England blends both technical appeal and modern style — perfect for pairing with nearly any other selection in this gear roundup.
UNIMATIC U1-FN Watch — $725

An unstoppably rugged everyday watch to wear … well, all the time.

Inclement spring weather calls for a watch that can stand up to anything — and the UNIMATIC U1-FN Watch just so happens to be one of the toughest casual watches on the market.
Jaybird Earthproof Wireless Headphones — $180

Rugged wireless headphones that can take a serious beating this spring.

Alright, so I mentioned above that you’d need one of the toughest casual watches for your spring adventures — but what about your audio gear? When going off-the-grid or taking on a tough day hike, you need some of the strongest wireless headphones on the market — Jaybird’s Earthproof Wireless Headphones surely take the cake.
Faherty Brand Interloop Blazer — $198

A classic, lightweight spring blazer you should wear with aplomb.

In search of the best blazer for spring and summer? Faherty Brand is here to save the day with this stylish lightweight blazer, a versatile number you (and should) rock over a classic T-shirt with stylish light wash jeans.
Todd Snyder Sherpa Overshirt — $123.98

This Todd Snyder shacket could become a spring go-to.

I mentioned earlier that we’re not quite out of the woods when it comes to the need for rugged layers just yet, and what better way to approach unexpectedly chilly spring days than with the Todd Snyder Sherpa Overshirt, ehh?
5.11 Tactical Mission Ready Chukka Boots — $149.99 

Lightweight, rugged, dependable — all at once.

If you know 5.11 Tactical, you know that the brand does a fine job at making seriously outdoor-ready gear, the type of pieces that work on tactical missions (hence the name), off-grid excursions and your daily commute. In that regard, the 5.11 Tactical Mission Ready Chukka Boots are some of the best chukka boots for this season.

Huckberry Pocket Tee — $34

A stylish pocket tee coming at ya courtesy of Huckberry.

Yes, my friends — Huckberry is now making your new favorite pocket tee. The brand’s line of Huckberry apparel and gear is every bit as stylish and well-made as you would expect, as is this classic cotton pocket T-shirt.

EverSmile WhitenFresh — $8.99

A necessary for any guy on the go.

Planning lots of spring travel? Or else, wanting to stay fresh on the go? Pick up this handy breath spray from EverSmile, one that also whitens your teeth as you go.
With spring in the air, what are you searching for most frequently right now? Are you on the hunt for basics, like a classic cotton pocket T-shirt? Or perhaps it’s the essential outer layers, like the Todd Snyder Sherpa Overshirt that are most critical for that early spring weather? Don’t sleep on the Taylor Stitch x Stetson collab as covered above, and don’t forget to consider the fact that you’ll need some of the best white leather sneakers — and sooner rather than later. If you’d like to stay in tune with what I’m wearing this spring, check out my Instagram. Thanks for reading!
by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Buck Mason Classic Oxford Shirt

A new everyday Oxford shirt, no doubt about it.

Alright, folks: Welcome to another Style Pick of the Week. Let’s talk all about one of the best men’s Oxford shirts, shall we? It helps that the stylish Oxford shirt in question comes from the classic menswear purveyors at Buck Mason, a longtime favorite of the blog (seriously, check out this post on Buck Mason from 2015!). But to be sure, the brand gets several things right all the way across the board, from the perfect everyday watch to the rugged field jacket you need in your closet ASAP. But back to the reason we’re here: The Buck Mason Classic Oxford Shirt is every bit the shirt you would expect from this lauded brand, and it’s a perfect menswear essential to snag as we head (slowly but surely) from winter into spring. It all starts with the attention to detail and construction over at Buck Mason, this much I know to be true. The brand says the fit of this shirt is similar to its other collared shirts (I love the Denim Vintage One-Pocket Shirt in particular) and its classic T-shirts, so that’s great news right off the bat. Made with 100 percent cotton for a breezy feel and finish, this essential Oxford shirt is perfect to wear on its own at the office (preferably with slim tan chinos and classic suede chukka boots) or else open atop a crisp white tee with your favorite pair of jeans on the weekend.

SHOP: The Buck Mason Classic Oxford Shirt

This sharp Buck Mason Oxford shirt also comes in classic white.

Really, the versatility of the Buck Mason Classic Oxford Shirt comes down to the fit — the fact that you can rock untucked on its own with classics like edgy black denim or office-ready olive chinos is a big bonus. And yet, it’ll look sharp and stellar beneath a navy or khaki cotton blazer as the weather starts to warm up. The baggy Oxford shirts of days gone by are simply a thing of the past. Heck, if you were feeling really ambitious (and seriously cool, for that matter), you could pair this classic blue Oxford with one of Buck Mason’s leather moto jackets — talk about a menswear match made in heaven, right? It’s fitting that the Buck Mason Classic Oxford Shirt is so versatile and so classically cool: It was made by a brand that believes in those things, after all. The next time you want an Oxford shirt that’s as comfortable as a broken-in tee and yet stylish enough to wear at the office, get this handsome number from Buck Mason.

SHOP: The Buck Mason Classic Oxford Shirt

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: The Best Lightweight Shirts, A New Everyday Watch & The Ultimate “Bug-Out” Bag

Maybe you’re going to be working from home a lot more now? A stylish hoodie is certainly necessary, then.

We’re right at the start of another Friday Read and another spring weekend, and an unprecedented one, at that. These are trying times we live in, to be sure (you know what I mean). What’s a guy to do with myriad concerns swirling around, and without even a whisper of spring sports to watch in the meantime? And that’s the least of our worries, to be sure. In the midst of it all, know that I sincerely appreciate you reading this blog — it means an awful lot. Perhaps you’re working from home a ton right now — to be sure, that’s why you can view the Flint and Tinder 10-Year Hoodie at the top of the page. Along with suggesting you pick up one of the best men’s hoodies, well, might I suggest a few reads to take your mind off the rest of the news? That’s what I’m here for, at least. Perhaps consider reading up on this disaster gear kit as covered by Gear Patrol, too (seriously — those gear picks cover a variety of situations across the country and the globe).

The ultimate “bug-out”‘ bag, as Gear Patrol says, can come in handy in plenty of different seasons, too. If you or a loved one is dealing with a health crisis at the moment, I’m wishing you all the best — and a speedy recovery. If your work is impacted by today’s current events, I’m also wishing you the best. If you could use even more menswear features to take your mind off things, head to, well, last week’s Friday Read (covered: The best shampoos, a durable new watch from Huckberry, and spring outerwear). At any rate, hopefully, the below menswear reads can help you take your mind (momentarily) off what’s going on out there. If you want to talk all things #menswear for a change, head to Twitter or my Instagram. OK, let’s get this weekend rolling.

  • With all this talk about disaster gear, let’s stick to the everyday for a minute, shall we? Namely, your timepiece collection needs an upgrade, to say the least. I wrote about an iconic new everyday watch at GearMoose — the Szanto x Roland Sands Icon Signature Watch is durable enough for the field, smart enough for the office, and ready for a bit of everything in between.
  • There’s plenty going on out there, but I’d bet you haven’t completely given up getting dressed in style … have you? There’s little that a stylish spring shirt can’t help you fix when it comes to your daily ensemble, so read up on my guide to lightweight spring shirts at The Manual, featuring brands you know and love (like Billy Reid and more). Let’s get to it.
  • Yet again, I’m here to tell you that spring style shouldn’t fall by the wayside — composure is key, after all. That’s where my guide on how to wear the best men’s chinos comes in handy. Simply click over to that post and check out the right way to wear (among other style picks) the Flint and Tinder Selvage Chinos. There’s really no wrong way to style ’em.
  • Last but certainly not least, because you could probably use a little something else to read, let’s stop back by The Manual to check out a neat music — the 7 most influential record labels of all-time. How cool is that? I’m going to be spinning some vinyl this weekend, that  much I know.

Before we take off for the weekend — or more likely, kick back and relax — how about reading all about the must-have shirt jacket you need for spring? It comes from my friends at Billy Reid, who know a thing or two about getting you ready for the season in style. Alright, my friends — that’s all for today’s Friday Read, but we’ve got another Style Pick of the Week incoming tomorrow. Be sure to stop by — oh, and take care out there (and wash your hands!).

Thanks for reading,

-Beau

by Beau H.

See Now, Buy Now: These Are the Classic Chukka Boots You Need On Your Feet Now

You need a pair of suede chukka boots on your feet this early spring — no questions asked.

If you read the site on the regular, perhaps you’re well-acquainted with the fact that I’m an advocate for classic early spring style essentials that you can wear well beyond just one season — like classic chukka boots, for instance. And of course, you’re perhaps well-aware that I love one brand of chukka boots in particular, from the good folks at Huckberry (naturally). Those timeless boots in question would  be the Astorflex Greenflex Chukka Boots, a truly critical pair to get in your wardrobe and on your feet as we move through early spring. We’ve covered them in the past here on the blog, but it’s always helpful to get a reminder about a great pair of footwear, is it not? Now that we’re nearing April, ideally, you’ve been able to put away your heftier, rugged leather boots in favor of lightweight footwear (and lightweight chinos, and Oxford shirts, and … you  get the point). That’s where the Astorflex Greenflex Chukka Boots, a longtime favorite of the blog, are going to serve you so well. The crepe rubber sole is a nice pairing indeed with the sustainably treated suede leather, offering comfort and a smooth ride — these are the type of chukka boots you can wear with either no-show socks or merino socks with ease (preferably beneath slim tan chinos, rolled up ever so slightly).

SHOP: The Astorflex Greenflex Chukka Boots

Just one of the colorways in which you can snag these essential chukka boots.

As per tradition, it seems Huckberry  does an ace job at finding gear that’s uniquely sourced, uniquely made and uniquely wearable — these stylish suede chukka boots just so happen to be made in Italy from European-sourced leather that goes through an all-natural aging process. The result? Expertly finished suede chukka boots that are perfect for plenty of spring style scenarios. Seriously, you can wear Astorflex Greenflex Chukka Boots with olive chinos and a light blue chambray shirt for easygoing spring style, or else you can take these classic chukka boots and pair them with dark denim, a blue Oxford shirt and a navy cotton blazer — talk about business-casual style dialed down to a “T,” yes? Yes indeed. Wear them for travel, wear ’em to an outdoor concert, wear them on the weekend … just be sure you’re wearing your new favorite chukka boots as often as you can this season.

SHOP: The Astorflex Greenflex Chukka Boots

by Beau H.

#OOTD: How to Dress in Versatile Style for Early Spring

Early spring is a time to break out all those spring style essentials you kept stored away during the chilly winter months, from lightweight, stylish everyday pants to other classics that play well with steadily warming (but occasionally rainy or breezy weather) — and that’s where today’s #OOTD rises to the top. If you’ve checked your calendar, you know it’s St. Patrick’s Day, and although you might be spending it at home given all that’s going on out there these days, the goal with today’s look is the ultimate in versatility. It all starts with the new Western Rise Diversion Pants, which blend comfort and style easily. They work for a day at the office (you’ll note the Taylor Stitch short-sleeve shirt below) to a day of kicking back, cold beer in hand (hence, the comfortable Proof Elements Jacket and classic spring sneakers). Of course, if you’ve got to get out and about on a rainy day, then this look also works just fine — check out the tough rubber-strap watch and some of the the toughest EDC gear, for starters. If things warm up unexpectedly, you can ditch the jacket and rock the band-collar shirt on its own (more on that in a second). We’re all about easygoing-yet-polished seasonal style, and this look checks all the right boxes — plus, it’s hard to knock the fact that the weather finally allows you to wear your favorite sneakers again, ehh? To let me know what you think of these gear picks, find me on Twitter.

Durable, versatile pants and comfortable classics pave the way for your next spring #OOTD.

The proper blend of comfort and flexibility starts from the ground up here with the Western Rise Diversion Pants, namely. With a DWR finish and plenty of pockets for your everyday carry (like the Bellroy Minimalist EDC Set), they’re perfectly ready for spring style and plenty of adventures. The polished-yet-cool nature of this outfit is taken up a notch with a stylish short-sleeve shirt, one that you can even wear to the office. And for your commute to the office, you’ll find no better, tougher jacket than the Proof Elements Jacket — it’s dependable, it’s easy to wear for travel (when we’re able to travel again, that is to say), and it pairs quite nicely with the North 89 No-1 Sneakers for crisp-yet-casual seasonal style. It’s the blend of a unique band-collar shirt, combined with travel-ready pants from Western Rise, that gives this look a sense of day-to-night style (when you can get back outside, that is). Be sure to pair up those trousers with a stylish leather belt, too. Of course, accessories also elevate this look, and a tough rubber-strap watch keeps things from getting too stuffy. Taking care of your mug doesn’t stop now that it’s spring, either, so make sure one of the best face cleansers for men is part of your daily routine. All of your bases are covered when it comes to versatile spring style, that much is true. To see how I’m dressing for the season, be sure to head to my Instagram.

by Beau H.

Reader Giveaway Opportunity: Get These New Samuel Windsor Boots for Spring Right Now

Rugged, comfortable leather wingtip boots … that could be yours soon.

My friends, welcome to a new week — and a new take (for today) on our See Now, Buy Now series. While I’m still giving you the customary rundown on some of the best men’s gear, today’s end result is a little different. In fact, you’ll have the chance today to win your own pair of Samuel Windsor boots — the pair seen above, as it were! To win, you need only follow the brand on Twitter below — it’s that easy!

Now, if you’re based in the U.K., you’re likely familiar with Samuel Windsor — they’ve been specializing in affordable menswear and accessories since 2003, and the prices at which these essentials are offered is truly a sight to behold. We’re talking serious affordability and serious quality, both of which I’ve had the chance to experience these past few weeks when testing out the brand (as you might have seen on my Instagram).

Shop Western Rise Now

Brogue detailing sets these handsome wingtip boots apart — enter below to win your own!

Shop Western Rise Now

The Samuel Windsor Fairfield Boots are some of the best wingtip boots I’ve tried in some time, blending all kinds of comfort with durability and classic styling potential. They’re from the Samuel Windsor Prestige Collection, which features Goodyear welted construction, quality leather and a certain sense of classic flair that’ll upgrade any outfit. I’ve personally worn the Samuel Windsor Fairfield Boots  with everything from navy chinos and a garment-dyed Oxford shirt to a classic henley and slim dark denim — they’re just that good. The stitched rubber sole provides all-weather durability, while antique eyelets also offer another unique touch. And with all that being said … doesn’t it sound pretty great to win your own pair!? Well, again, you need only follow the brand on Twitter below.

A winner will be selected randomly — shoes will ship from the U.K. Thanks for supporting brands that support The Style Guide! Cheers.

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: SeaVees Huntington Middie High-Top Sneakers

Easygoing sneakers to wear all spring.

Maybe in your neck of the woods, it’s starting to warm up ever so slightly — and with the hint of a spring breeze comes the need to swap in some of the best men’s sneakers for just about any seasonal style pursuits you can possibly dream up. On that note, please welcome to the stage: The SeaVees Huntington Middie, and they’re quite possibly some of the best men’s high-top sneakers to slide onto your feet this season (and of course, into summer). These classic high-top sneakers have been a favorite of this very blog over the years, and we’re bringing them back into the fold today for good reason: You simply need to start wearing easygoing spring sneakers right now in place of rugged leather boots (at least some of the time, that is). The right spring sneakers, especially from a brand like SeaVees (which helped pioneer California cool via unique styles of the 1960’s) can evoke a sense of time and place, and in the case of the SeaVees Huntington Middie, they call to mind spring barbecues, sunlit days in the park, easygoing days on the patio at your favorite brewery … and plenty more. Even if you’re dealing with more rain than sunshine at the moment, I promise you that warmer days are ahead, and when they get there, you won’t find a finer pair of classic spring sneakers for the moment than the SeaVees Huntington Middie. That’s high praise, but the brand can back it up.

SHOP: The SeaVees Huntington Middie

One of three classic colorways in which you’ll find the SeaVees Huntington Middie.

These sneakers blend the best of both worlds — a cut that’s similar to classic chukka boots or high-top sneakers, yet the lightweight look and feel of timeless SeaVees sneakers.  The suede upper is supple and pretty perfect for spring, as these should be easy to slip into right out of the box. That versatility from day one means you can (and should) team them with your favorite spring style essentials — take slim light wash jeans, a classic white tee & stylish shades, then add the SeaVees Huntington Middie & call it good to go. These are the sort of easygoing sneakers you can get away with taking for a spin at the office, too — team them up with a classic Oxford shirt & tan chinos, maybe add an unstructured cotton blazer … there it is. All the while, you can rest easy knowing that these affordable sneakers also happen to be durable and stylish at the same time. Get with the program, get the SeaVees Huntington Middie, then get ready for spring.

SHOP: The SeaVees Huntington Middie

 

 

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: The Best Shampoos For Men, A Top Spring Jacket & Your New Spring Watch

A sleek, sharp and cool-as-heck watch to wear this weekend.

Wondering about a watch to wear this weekend? Folks, I’ve got your answer — best make it the Szanto Roland Sands Icon Signature Watch as shown above. It’s one of the best men’s watches to buy right now, and it’ll surely help you stay on time for a weekend of early spring fun. You very well might recognize the brand at the top of the page from past Szanto watch reviews on the blog — and if not, it’s high time you listened up (and shopped in advance of the weekend, of course). I’d only hope you’re wearing a watch designed in collaboration with Roland Sands, at least — I’d love to get my hands on one as I explore Brooklyn this weekend and reflect on my trip earlier this week to Seattle. If you follow me on Instagram, you’re well-aware that enjoyed plentiful craft beer, a standout rock show by NYC legends The Strokes, and of course, a delicious meal (or two) — including at the terrific PINTXO Seattle.

OLIVERS

The weather was surprisingly sunny and beautiful, and I certainly did my best to get around with my favorite spring style essentials in tow, including the functional and stylish Proof Rover Jacket and of course, Flint and Tinder’s Stretch Selvage Denim. Again this weekend, it’ll be all about relaxation back in Brooklyn — I have my TrailKeg growler to fill up at Gold Star Beer Counter in the borough, and I’m also looking forward to cheering on my Michigan State Spartans in the Big Ten Men’s Basketball Tournament this weekend! March is one of my favorite parts of spring, precisely for the on-court prowess of my alma mater (fingers crossed, that is!), and I can’t wait to take in some great basketball with college friends. Let me know what’s on your weekend slate of spring fun over at Twitter, and be sure to swing by tomorrow for our next Style Pick of the Week. 

  • OK, to business. The right shampoo can sometimes be overlooked, I’ve found, in terms of your grooming routine. That’s not the case anymore, though — I’m all about what the best shampoos for men can bring to your rotation of grooming essentials, which is why I covered the 10 best shampoos over at GearMoose.
  • Spring has sprung, and that assuredly menas you need a tough, durable spring jacket — I submit for your consideration the Proof Rover Jacket, as surefire a spring style winner as it gets. Read more at GearMoose, then head to Huckberry to pick up yours.
  • Let’s turn briefly to the rugged leather boots you’ve (ideally) got on your feet this season. They should be from HELM Boots, no questions asked. More specifically, you should click through to this blog post covering the best Chelsea boots to buy right now. And if you thought spring wasn’t an ideal time for Chelsea boots? I promise, HELM has you taken care of.

Folks, that’ll just about do it for today’s Friday Read. But before I let you go, I’m going to direct you toward another standout timepiece that should be on your wrist this spring — the Buck Mason Mulholland Explorer Wristwatch, as durable and stylish a watch as it gets. It’s rugged, it’s hard-wearing, it looks great whether grabbing coffee or grabbing a beer … you can do no wrong. By the way: Don’t forget your HELM Boots before you hit the road. OK, that’s all for now — thanks for reading!

by Beau H.

See Now, Buy Now: Mott and Bow Now Makes Your New Favorite Sweatshirt

A well-made, casual and seriously cool sweatshirt from Mott and Bow.

If  you visit the digital pages of this blog often enough, you’ll find that we’re big fans of NYC-based denim purveyors Mott and Bow. They’re the focus once again of today’s See Now, Buy Now series, and they specialize in making a range of affordable men’s denim in quality fits, fabrics and washes, all with an emphasis on direct-to-consumer efficiency. And if you really, really dive deep into the blog, you’ll know that the brand does more than just make your favorite pair of jeans. In fact, as of this year, Mott and Bow is now making your new favorite sweatshirt (as the headline implies). The Mott and Bow Hooper French Terry Crewneck is, most importantly, versatile yet casual, not to mention extremely stylish and well-made — how’s that for a triple whammy? Not bad, right? Like all Mott and Bow gear, the difference is evident right from the start, and in this case, that means the right fabric sets this stylish sweatshirt apart from the pack.

SHOP: The Mott and Bow Hooper French Terry Crewneck

One of the versatile colors in which you can get this crucial sweatshirt.

It’s pretty great that a brand that makes some of the coolest men’s jeans continues to branch out into complementary, stylish pieces that work very well with the slim denim on tap from them — I’m a fan after testing in recent weeks and months. Available in colors like Charcoal Heather, Heather Gray and the Navy option seen above, this rugged-yet-classic crewneck sweatshirt should  pair well with everything from slim dark blue denim (from Mott and Bow, of course) and a classic Oxford shirt to tan chinos & white high-top sneakers for a bit of early, early spring transitional style. It helps that the crewneck sweatshirt has transcended its humble athletic roots to become a go-to everyday style move — I’d also suggest you layer it underneath a denim jacket with olive chinos and your favorite pair of chukka boots for easygoing weekend (or casual office!) style. The point is this: The Mott and Bow Hooper French Terry Crewneck is more than just your average crewneck, and you should expect nothing less from a brand that continues to innovate on all fronts.

SHOP: The Mott and Bow Hooper French Terry Crewneck