Online Shopping Picks: The Best Men’s Shirts to Buy For Summer

Quick, look at what you’re wearing. And if it’s not a stylish shirt for summer, I don’t know what to tell ya. Luckily, we here at The Style Guide can help today. While we’ve talked about the best transitional jackets for men, we haven’t quite gotten around to talking about what to pair with that jacket on breezy summer nights or rainy summer days — yet, we’re checking off that box today. After all, what are you going to wear when hauling your daily everyday carry in a stylish messenger bag? A great summer shirt, that’s what.  Yes indeed, simply designed, subtly stylish and well-made shirting is the way to go. Whether you go with a vibrant patterned shirt or a laidback classic Oxford, you really can’t go wrong. You’ll absolutely recognize the brands on this list, from Abercrombie and Fitch to Mott and Bow (they make shirts now!) and classic brands like Grayers. It’s a full set of tried-and-true brands that can easily go just about anywhere you want this season — be that planning for a Memorial Day weekend trip or picking out to gear to wear to the beach this summer. If it’s easygoing versatility you seek, look no further. See how I style my own favorite spring shirts over on Instagram, and keep up with my writing on Twitter in the meantime. Now, onto the picks!

#1. Outerknown Shibui Short-Sleeve Essential Shirt — $175

Outerknown

A unique shirt with head-turning style and sustainability in mind.

If at first you found yourself balking at that price, bear with me here. Outerknown is the brain child of pro surfer Kelly Slater — a legend in the water who’s shown a knack for successfully launching a standout brand. Outerknown proves that sustainability and style can go hand-in-hand — it’s a premium approach that results in the price tag you see above, but the Outerknown Shibui Short-Sleeve Essential Shirt really is too good to pass up when it comes to unique-yet-versatile style. Wear this shirt with stylish shorts or slim swim trunks and definitely team it with slim light wash denim on weekends galore.
Oxfords under $50 CAD_728x90

#2.Abercrombie & Fitch Garment-Dyed Oxford — $39

Abercrombie and Fitch

A shirt that calls to mind the Oxfords of years past, made with excellent fabric.

Ladies and gentlemen, you might recognize this shirt from my Instagram or indeed, from my Spring Style Wish List. The folks at Abercrombie and Fitch were kind enough to send it along as a gift, and I can certainly recommend it to you in good faith. This one calls to mind a well-worn favorite shirt, what with its garment-dyed fabrication. The colorway is just different enough from a plain white Oxford, and that makes it the type of shirt that works just as well with black denim at a rock concert as it does with grey chinos at the office.

Sutro Footwear

#3. Mott and Bow Graham Slim Buttondown Shirt — $79.98

Mott and Bow

A pleasing color and slim fit make this new Mott and Bow shirt a must-have.

Entry number three on our list of the best men’s shirts for summer comes at you via Mott and Bow — lest you thought they only made your favorite pair of classic blue denim, they recently introduced a line of soft, premium and well-constructed denim shirts. The Mott and Bow Graham Slim Buttondown Shirt  in particular features a pleasing dark blue wash, exceptionally soft and breathable fabric, and the type of casual style that would work well for exploring Brooklyn (among other pursuits).

Greats

#4. Grayers Jaspe Double Cloth Shirt — $79.98

Grayers

A reliable upgrade to your classic Oxford, with plenty of style points and exceptional quality built in.

Everyone needs a reliable Oxford in their closet, even in the summer — yes? It’s the type of shirt to pair with everything from a classic pocket tee to your favorite lightweight navy blazer, and you can wear it in all style situations. That goes for casual Friday and that certainly rings true for a  weekend coffee date. So, why the Grayers Jaspe Double Cloth Shirt? Well, folks — Grayers uses some of the best fabric in the business, and that means the Jaspe Double Cloth Shirt is a reliable layer on breezy beach nights and early mornings alike.

 #5. Criquet Shirts Slim-Fit Player’s Shirt in Midnight Cowboy — $79 OR La Paz Leao Polo — $115

Criquet Shirts

Two polo shirts for the picking, both made with soft fabric and featuring slim fits.

Because it wouldn’t be summer without a smattering of classic polos in the mix, I’m pleased to present to you not one, but two slim and well-made polo shirts for the season. The Criquet Shirts Slim-Fit Player’s Shirt in Midnight Cowboy upgrades the brand’s classic Player’s Shirt with a sharp silhouette and soft fabric — as you might recall from this #OOTD on how to wear light wash jean.  And as to the La Paz Leao Polo?  Well, my loyal Style Guide readers … it features French terry construction, a  reliable fit and Portuguese-made construction. Not bad at all, ehh?

Alright, thanks for the applause. Wait, you are cheering, right? When picking out a summer shirt, the same exact keys apply as they do the rest of the year — start with quality and comfort, plus a great fit. That’s where reliable polo options like the Criquet Shirts Slim-Fit Player’s Shirt in Midnight Cowboy and the La Paz Leao Polo perform so admirably. And if it’s sustainability and eco-friendly style that you see, the Outerknown Shibui Short-Sleeve Essential Shirt is going to be your best friend for barbecues and beyond. And for seasonal versatility — and again, great quality — the Grayers Jaspe Double Cloth Shirt is the way to go. Of course, don’t rule out a classic Abercrombie and Fitch Oxford, either.  It’s certainly tough to narrow any list down to just five, so let me know of any picks I missed via the comments section. Excited to see what y’all come up with!

And as always — stay stylish.

-Beau

#OOTD: How to Wear Light Wash Jeans This Spring

So, you’ve picked up your new favorite pair of light wash denim — or at least, you’ve thought about it. Now, how do you wear those jeans? Well, there are a few moves that’ll help you take on spring in style — unlike pairing dark selvedge denim with sturdy leather boots and a thick shawl cardigan for winter, the focus today is on keeping things light, breezy and fun. That means we’re grabbing an essential spring polo and a classic cotton bomber jacket, all the while focused on dialing in the fit of your light wash denim. In the warm, breezy days of spring and summer, light wash denim just fits in with the weather and the atmosphere. Trust me on this: You’re going to want to wear light wash jeans as much as you can this summer — particularly when those jeans are made in a unique wash and feature a slim fit. That means that from spring road trips to summer music festivals, slim light wash jeans should be a go-to move — and it doesn’t get better than the Abercrombie light wash denim seen here. You know Abercrombie and Fitch for the brand’s stylish, durable winter gear, and that same attitude carries over to its spring line. If you have other questions on how to wear your light wash denim, or if you just want to get in touch, hit me up on Twitter or join me over on the ‘Gram for style inspiration on the daily.

Sutro Footwear

Mixing the sporty and the classic for essential spring style.

The Denim: Abercrombie and Fitch Super Skinny Jeans, $39 — If it’s slim, of-the-moment style that you seek, look no further than this vibrant pair of washed denim, made with a hint of stretch for comfort. For options that feature a more forgiving cut, look toward Straight or Slim options via Mott and Bow.

The Jacket: La Paz Ortigao Bomber in Almond, $275 — We first brought this jacket to your attention in our post on how to dress for a spring road trip — and well, it’s back again thanks to its unique color and lightweight construction.
Greats

The Polo: Criquet Shirts Slim-Fit Player’s Shirt in Midnight Cowboy, $79 — For easily wearable style that looks sharp underneath a bomber jacket or on its own, it’s tough to top a classic navy polo like the Criquet Slim-Fit Player’s Shirt  — especially one made with organic cotton jersey fabric.

The Sneakers: House of Future Original Sneaker in White, $76.98 — Who doesn’t love a pair of classic leather sneakers? Especially the House of Future Original Sneaker — these are sharp and feature a crisp, slim profile for an agreeable price.

The Socks: Darn Tough No Show Ultra-Light Cushion Socks, $29.98 — No-show socks can be a surprisingly tricky item for which to shop — you want comfort and quality, and you get that with the Darn Tough No Show Ultra-Light Cushion Socks.

The Belt: La Matera Bariloche Belt, $145 — If you want to step up your #menswear accessories game in a big way, reach for a casual belt — say, the La Matera Bariloche Belt — that blends vintage fabric, a neat pattern and cool color.

The Watch: Jack Mason Aviator Chronograph, $275 — For handsome, smart and casual style that still looks extremely sharp and put-together, the Jack Mason Aviator Chronograph is the watch you need now.

The Sunglasses: Norton Point Charlie 014 Sunglasses, $145 — For seriously cool style, reach for retro-inspired sunglasses that add some sporty appeal to the La Paz Ortigao Bomber.

Florsheim

Feeling comfortable with how to wear light wash denim now? At least a little bit more comfortable? If you haven’t quite come around to the idea of light wash denim yet, the key here involves taking pieces that you’d already wear in warm weather — like the Criquet Slim-Fit Player’s Shirt — and mashing them up with sporty-yet-casual pieces (such as the La Paz Ortigao Bomber in Almond. Add in supremely classic and clean white leather sneakers like the House of Future Original Sneaker , and then accent that casual combo with the beautiful and just plain badass Jack Mason Aviator Chronograph. Oh, and don’t leave your shades at home — there’s no doubt that you won’t forget the Norton Point Charlie 014 Sunglasses, what with a retro-inspired design and cool looks. In short, all of these pieces work on their own — and they particularly work well together for all manner of spring style pursuits, from a ballgame to a weekend coffee date to a spring road trip. Especially that light wash denim. Ya feel me on that? Good.

Let’s go to it!

-Beau

 

#OOTD: How to Upgrade Your Pocket Tee This Spring

Morning (or afternoon … or evening), folks! Thanks for being with us as we talk how to upgrade your pocket tee this spring. In the men’s style world, never underestimate the importance and utility of a great-fitting T-shirt — especially one that you can wear in a way that’s slightly different from other spring style moves. Once you figure what size works for you, you can use said T-shirt to take on the world in style — particularly as the thermostat climbs. And if you want to switch up your T-shirt game, take a good, hard look at the humble pocket tee. Unlike a standard white tee, it’s got more going for it in terms of versatility and visually interesting looks — the chest pocket draws attention to, well, your chest, for starters. It’s the small details that make a stylish pocket tee suitable to wear on its own or layered up — as you’ll see in today’s #OOTD. We’re mixing a bit of a mononchromatic color palette with a statement-making tee, classic spring sneakers and all of the stylish everyday carry pieces you can get your hands on. It’s the sort of #OOTD you can reliably wear on a weekend coffee date or a spring bar crawl …. or both. What’d ya say? Let’s go to it. For style inspiration all 365 days of the year, follow along on Instagram.

Richer Poorer

A unique take on the pocket tee, accented with classic, spring-friendly style essentials.

The Pocket Tee: Richer Poorer Crew Pocket Tee in Pink, $32 — Think pink isn’t a color that’s made for you? Think again. We’re seeing a lot more of this dusty pink shade across menswear and women’s style, and using it as your base is a significant style upgrade.

The Shirt: Abercrombie and Fitch Two-Pocket Chambray Shirt, $35 — Why are we layering up our pocket tee with a stylish chambray shirt? For one, it’ll help combat any spring and summer breezes. And, number two: If you’re wary of the pink T-shirt, it takes some of the focus of it. Plus, a chambray shirt is a rugged essential for the entire year.

The Denim: Abercombie and Fitch Super Skinny Denim in Light Wash, $59 — Here’s where that monochromatic style we talked about earlier comes into play. This pair of stretch denim blends retro style with comfort — feel free to wear them to your next rock concert, too.
Greats

The Sneakers: SeaVees Hermosa Regatta Sneaker, $88 — We here at The Style Guide absolutely love what’s being done by SeaVees across the board — the Hermosa Regatta Sneaker blends a unique spring color with a light weight and quite a lot of comfort and style.

The Socks: Darn Tough No Show Ultra-Light Cushion Socks, $29.98  — If you’re going to break out classic SeaVees sneakers, some no-show socks are in order — yes? Darn Tough makes some of the best around. Pricey, but comfortable and much-needed.

The Watch: Huckberry Combat B33 GMT Watch, $498.98 — We’ve waxed poetic about the durability and style of the rugged Huckberry Combat B33 GMT Watch, and its simple design makes it ideal for pairing with laidback pieces.

The Sunglasses: Sunski Madronas Sunglasses, $55 — Every so often, you want shades that are simple, stylish and affordable — that’s where the Sunski Madronas sunglasses come in very handy indeed. Yes indeed, these are definitely worth adding to any list of the best men’s sunglasses.

The Ballcap: Huckberry Explorer’s Cap, $39.98 — To keep the sun off your face during interminable hours sipping patio beers, reach for the vintage-inspired, well-made Huckberry Explorer’s Cap.

Beckett Simonon

Looking through the above #OOTD has me positively dreaming of cracking open a cold one on a patio somewhere — hopefully, you’re in the same boat. The key to this outfit revolves around the unexpected pink shade of the pocket tee, plus visually interesting layering via a classic light chambray shirt and slim light wash denim. Of course, it wouldn’t be an #OOTD without stylish spring sneakers — that’s where the Hermosa Regatta Sneaker has you covered.  And in that regard, you’re going to need a tough casual watch to take on spring excursions — that’s what the Huckberry Combat B33 GMT Watch can do for ya. And it’s with two personal favorites of mine that we close out this outfit — there might not be a more stylish ballcap out there than the Huckberry Explorer’s Cap, and for classic, functional spring style, it’s tough to get better than those Sunski Madronas shades. Would you wear your pocket tee in a similar fashion? Leave any feedback over on The Style Guide Facebook page, and join us tomorrow for a new Online Shopping Picks entry.

Stay stylish, my friends!

-Beau

Oxfords under $50 CAD_250x250

Plug Me In: Adventures and Live Music in Brooklyn

Just hanging around in Brooklyn waiting for the Chairlift show. Denim Jacket by Forever21. Graham Shirt by Mott and Bow. Super Skinny Skinny Jeans in Light Wash by Abercrombie & Fitch. Service Boots by Viberg. Military Watch by Timex x Todd Snyder. Flight Brief by Owen and Fred. Glasses by Frameri.

It was with great excitement that I sat down to write this post — after all, this past weekend combined some of my favorite things (certainly, the chance to make AC/DC references in headlines is among them). But on another note, if you follow along with yours truly at The Style Guide, you might have an inkling as to a few of my favorite things. In short order: Live music, #menswear and Brooklyn explorations. Luckily for me, all three were on the docket this weekend. And as you might have read in past travel feature posts, there’s nothing I love more than dressing for a rock concert, hitting up a choice brunch spot, and enjoying an excellent show. It was a momentous weekend for all those reasons –namely,  it was my first chance to check out the newly opened Brooklyn Steel, now the largest music venue in the borough. Of course, I hit up a few great coffee shops — and unlike my recent road trip to Pittsburgh, I didn’t even have to lug around a rugged weekender bag! Join for me the ride and see how I took on the weekend in style.

Mixing high-low style with the Life/After/Denim Patchwork Shirt, the standout Standard Issue Utility Chino from Apolis and the handsome Allen Edmonds Liverpool Chelsea Boots. Leatherback Writer by This Is Ground. Pen by Cross Pens. Watch by MVMT Watches. Sunglasses by Tom Ford.

The weekend really kicked off properly on Friday, what with the chance to break out a bit of festive spring style for time on the clock at my day job in fashion PR. The real highlight though?  It has to be Life/After/Denim Patchwork Shirt, an entirely unique piece that’s fit for the office and fit for a Friday evening. Seeing as I spent mine both taking care of business at work and shooting a few photos with Megan Collins of Style Girlfriend (new project coming soon!), this piece worked out perfectly for both pursuits. And it proved a breezy complement to my durable, classic and versatile Apolis Standard Issue Utility Chinos — the neutral color and clean fit played perfectly off what are quickly becoming my new favorite boots: the Allen Edmonds Liverpool Chelsea Boot, which merge a sharp silhouette with beautiful brown suede.

NORDSTROM.com

Useful everyday carry pieces like my This Is Ground Leatherback Writer and a crisp, classic MVMT Watches brown leather watch proved essential, too. More importantly: If you seek a subtly stylish pen made for daily use, the Peerless TrackR Ballpoint Pen is seemingly immune to being misplaced thanks to a built-in locator app. It writes quite nicely and looks great, too. So, those were the essentials I used to take on a last day of work — but what about the rest of the weekend, ehh?

For Chairlift’s final NYC, I had to break out my Abercrombie & Fitch Super Skinny Denim tough Viberg Service Boots and grooming gear from Oars + Alps. 1951 Traveller Bag by Graf Lantz.

Saturday brought with it the promise of a brooding-yet-bright, eclectic and plain fun synthpop show from Brooklyn duo Chairlift the group’s last-ever NYC show — plus the chance to get out and explore Brooklyn with my favorite men’s style gear in tow.  The breezy and temperate spring day proved the ideal chance to break out my new favorite spring shirt: The soft, slim and well-made Mott and Bow Graham Shirt, with a light blue shade that’s a great change of pace from more traditional chambray shirts — truly, a nice way to offset my Forever21 Denim Jacket. The shirt was one part of a monochromatic look alongside a slim pair of Abercrombie & Fitch Super Skinny Denim — the light wash calls to mind the ’90s quite nicely, and fit right in at Saturday’s show. Equally perfect for the occasion? My durable, tough and essential Viberg Service Boots — an incredibly well-made, distinguished pair of boots that I’ve already begun breaking in around Brooklyn. They’re quite simply the nicest pair of boots I’ve ever owned. And coming from a guy who loves tough leather boots  … that’s saying something.


For a day that took me around Williamsburg, I loaded up my new, sustainably made and very effective Graf Lantz 1951 Carrier Bag. Made with biodegradable 100 percent merino wool felt in a rich shade of green, this is one bag that carries enough clout and style to be used every day. I supplemented my everyday haul with the essential Timex x Todd Snyder Military Watch and the This Is Ground Leatherback Writer  — both well-priced favorites critical for any writer. And crucially, I had to prep for the day ahead with new grooming gear from Oars + Alps. The Active Armor Deodorant is a winner — it’s effective and made with a crisp scent. While my gear helped me navigate the borough, there are a few other key ingredients that helped considerably. Namely, a caffeine pit stop at my favorite coffee and menswear shop in Brooklyn, Upstate Stock, plus a delicious pastrami sandwich at coffee shop The West and a trip for craft brews at Beer Street in advance of Saturday evening’s Brooklyn Steel show.

Sutro Footwear

And as to the show itself: A winner all-around, to say the least. As you might have expected from my winter trip to New Haven and my December trip to see The Head and the Heart in Baltimore, it’s very tough to top the excitement and buzz around checking out a new venue. In just its second full week of action, Brooklyn Steel — housed in a former steel fabrication shop and jammed with a crowd of 1,800  — didn’t disappoint. Critically, neither did Chairlift.  They’re perhaps most well-known for their hit song “Bruises,” of Apple commercial fame, but there’s more to it. The duo of Caroline Polachek and Patrick Wimberly embody making it in the Brooklyn music scene — by way of Colorado — and then sticking around long enough to build a strong local and global following.

Oxfords under $50 CAD_728x90

It’s a testament to the group’s unique sound that even in just three albums, they’ve amassed a deep catalogue. That catalogue includes the band’s 2016 release, “Moth,” which is their strongest yet — both brooding and light thanks to Polachek’s stellar voice, which helped make the evening a great one. It was a a special show, and a long day on my feet, but my Viberg Service Boots are breaking in nicely, and the show was absolutely worth it. Rest assured, Caroline Polachek’s work as a solo artist post-Chairlift will have a big-time fan in this live music enthusiast, and we should all be grateful for the music they’ve left us with.

Blending the sporty and the classic. Wenlock Chambray Shirt by United By Blue. Slim Stone Chinos by Taylor Stitch. Sneakers by Gola. Leatherback Writer by This Is Ground. Red Wing Leather Waterbury Chronograph by Timex x Todd Snyder.

Sunday brought with it some much-needed relaxation to cap off a busy week — and a busy Saturday. But what would Sunday be without a little great style, ehh? And so, I broke out my slim, essential United By Blue Wenlock Chambray Shirt, featuring a pattern of neat mini-plus signs and a crisp blue color. The Wenlock Chambray Shirt complemented my Taylor Stitch Slim Chino in Light Stone, made in Portugal and featuring the tailored fit one would expect from a brand that prides itself on quality. And Sunday also provided a prime chance to slip into my Gola Classic Comet Plimsoll Trainers, a clean pair of retro-inspired trainers from a classic British brand. The entire ensemble was an effective high-low mix when matched up with everyday carry essentials like my  Timex + Todd Snyder Red Wing Leather Chronograph. That timepiece is a hard-wearing watch made for just about anything (including more Williamsburg exploration of choice spots like menswear emporium The Hill-Side). And seemingly  as always, my Owen and Fred Flight Brief proved effective at hauling around all the essentials needed for a day of blogging.

The right gear for a Sunday in Brooklyn. Wenlock Chambray Shirt by United By Blue. Slim Chinos in Light Stone by Taylor Stitch. Denim jacket by American Apparel. Plimsoll Comet Trainers by Gola. Red Wing Leather Chronograph by Timex x Todd Snyder. Runaway Aviators by MVMT Watches. Flight Brief by Owen and Fred.

And the next time you find yourself in Williamsburg, I’d say you’ve got another key stop to make. For one, who can resist an incredible donut …. or fried chicken … or both?? That’s where Pies ‘n’ Thighs comes in. The breakfast and lunch menus are packed with incredibly delicious, indulgent entrees (who wants an Insane Burger, ehh?) and you absolutely can’t pass up their donuts. Like, at all.

Beckett Simonon

Indeed, this past weekend really did provide just about everything I could ask for — even though it was a weekend spent at “home” in Brooklyn, home really is a great place to be. I can never pass up a chance to explore the borough, sip on some craft brews and wear my favorite menswear — all while checking out a great show and a venue that’s now very high on my list. It was a special first show at Brooklyn Steel, and I’ll absolutely be back. The fact that I was able to do all of this just by hopping on the subway across a matter of days really is quite unique and one-of-a-kind. So, as long as those subway trips culminate in great adventures, excellent live music and new opportunities, I’ll keep swiping my MetroCard.

Until next weekend — and until the next show!

-Beau

Greats                                                             

#OOTD: Upgrade Your Henley This Season

If the title of today’s #OOTD has you scratching your head and asking,”Why are we talking rugged henleys in spring?” … bear with me here. After all, there’s really no reason that a slim henley — the style essential every guy should have — isn’t fit for the warmer temps of spring. The key with today’s ensemble involves re-thinking how you wear your henley. While the crisp temperatures of fall and early winter call for layering your stylish henley with tough pieces like a waxed trucker jacket, the breezy days of spring call for a lighter approach all the way around. And that lighter approach starts with the henley itself — today’s well-made, well-crafted and lightweight Flint and Tinder slub henley is just the piece you need to switch up your spring layering game. It’s wearable with your favorite chinos, it works with slim selvedge denim and well … I’ll leave the rest of these tips for the remainder of this post. But again, think lighter colors and fabrics, think spring and get ready to buy your new favorite henley — or at least, steal some #menswear inspiration from this post. If you’ve got questions, I can be reached 24/7 on Twitter or via email — well, nearly 24/7. At any rate, shop away and enjoy!

Greats

Flint and Tinder

We’re lightening up your spring henley and pairing it with classic staples fit for warm weather.

The Henley: Flint and Tinder Slub Henley in Vintage Pewter, $58 — Just as I mentioned above, you can’t beat this Flint and Tinder slub henley, especially in a welcome, spring-like shade of pewter. The slub cotton is lightweight, breathable and ideal for layering — get on board with this one, folks.

The Jacket: Levi’s Trucker Jacket in Rinse, $70 — Does it get any more classic than a rugged denim jacket for spring? Particularly one in a crisp, dark wash as done by Levi’s? Buy this one now, and break it in a ton this season.

NORDSTROM.com

The Chinos: Abercrombie and Fitch Cropped Chino Pants in Cream, $68 — Want to really go for this whole spring style thing? Try pairing some light cream chinos with a similarly light henley — it’s monochromatic style that’s nicely broken up by the denim jacket.
Sutro Shoes Inc.

The Sneakers: Gola Classic Comet Plimsoll Trainers, $60 — Yours truly was pleasantly surprised to stumble across the crisp, sporty and vintage-looking Gola plimsoll trainers seen here — excellent looks, great styling potential and more than a century’s worth of British sporting heritage to back ’em up.

The Socks: Darn Tough No Show Ultra-Light Cushion Socks, $29.98 — If you’re rolling your chinos and sticking with classic spring sneakers, you’re bound to need effective no-show socks — like these Darn Tough no-shows.

The Belt: La Matera Corbina Belt, $145 — The similarly light colorplay between the chinos and that Flint and Tinder slub henley necessitates adding a shot of color and pattern — the La Matera Corbina Belt is the way to do it.

The Watch: Form-Function-Form Horween Leather Chronograph, $118.98 —  When you’re pairing up rugged essentials like a classic denim jacket and a slim slub henley, you need an equally tough watch; the handsome Form-Function-Form Horween Leather Chronograph as seen here should be your go-to casual watch.

The Everyday Carry: This Is Ground Leatherback Writer, $74.98 — Never underestimate the importance of an essential everyday carry piece to stow everything from notebooks to pens & extra headphones — this is a good one to buy.

Beckett Simonon

Alright – that’s a wrap on this spring layering #OOTD. See, wearing a spring henley isn’t as difficult as it might seem — right? Hopefully? It’s admittedly taken some time for me to incorporate my beloved henleys into spring style ensembles, but I’m confident that if you start with a great Flint and Tinder slub henley, you’re going to be inspired to put together quite a few looks. Take a classic, inky blue denim jacket and pair up your new favorite henley with cream chinos, to start.  Sport-inspired sneakers can add a nice dash of color to any spring ensemble, particularly a more monochromatic outfit like this one. And you can never go wrong — never — with durable accessories like the Form-Function-Form Horween Leather Chronograph or the visually interesting La Matera Corbina Belt. Before you step out the door though, don’t leave behind a handy everyday catch-all like the This Is Ground Leatherback Writer. OK, all good? I, for one, am ready to get out and try a few spring-centric looks. Follow along on Instagram, and drop any questions via our comments section below.

Thanks, as always, for reading!

-Beau

Oxfords under $50 CAD_250x250

Style Suggestion: The Most Stylish Gear for Spring Rain

If you’ve had the good fortune of avoiding rainy spring weather so far, good for you. If not, well … join the club. Today, we’ll get you all geared up for the gear to wear on a rainy spring day (and really, any time you need to look polished, casual and cool this season). It can be a struggle to dress technically and practically, yet still look good — that much is true. Those colorful, thin ponchos might do the trick at an amusement park, but your Style Guide author thinks we can (and should) strive to do better when it comes to dressing for the rain. Certainly, you need a stylish spring jacket — and then a heck of a lot more great pieces. So today, we’ll take you through a handy, down-to-the-details guide — as we do on every style suggestion — and hopefully, you’ll be better off for it. We’ve got picks from site favorites like Huckberry, we’ve got gear from brands like Grayers, and we’re gonna have some fun while we’re at it. Now, there’s no silver bullet when it comes to taking on the rain in style, but I’d wager you’ll like what we’ve got in store. Without any more bluster … here’s today’s style suggestion. Enjoy — and if you must, give me some grief about the below #menswear ensemble on Twitter.
Frank & Oak

The Jacket: Penfield Barnes Jacket — $124.98

A neutral, functional and well-made jacket that’s also affordably priced.

Leave it to Penfield to deliver a high-quality, functional and durable jacket that looks more stylish than your average rain slicker. It’s weatherproof and constructed from treated nylon taslan, which should hold its shape through the rain and any spring travels you’ve got planned. The stowaway hood on the Barnes Jacket adds another level of hidden functionality, and the mesh lining should provide nice breathability. Did I mention the Olive color is neutral and ideal for spring?

A new take on the Oxford-style shirt, made with two layers of lightweight fabric woven together.

As first seen in this site’s #OOTD on how to wear your new favorite chinos for spring, the Grayers Jaspe Double Cloth Shirt is worth incorporating into this outfit for several reasons. Grayers uses exceptionally high-quality fabric, in this instance two lightweight layers woven together. And that gives you a seriously wearable, updated take on the Oxford style — the Grayers Jaspe Double Cloth Shirt certainly adds some polish to the more technical raincoat.
Flint and Tinder

American-grown cotton and a slubby texture make this henley ideal for spring layering.

Because life’s too short to not wear quality goods, we’re recommending you layer up with an all-new essential — the Flint and Tinder Slub Henley. A well-made henley is a four-season style essential at this point, and it’s a nice layering move here for a few reasons. Namely, it adds some visual interest underneath the Grayers Jaspe Double Cloth Shirt, and it provides some added protection from chilly spring rain and wind. And if the Pewter color shown above isn’t your thing, know that it’s available in two different shades.

Beckett Simonon

The Denim: Abercombie and Fitch Super Skinny Denim in Light Wash — $59

Abercrombie and Fitch

Slim denim in a refreshingly light shade, made with a hint of stretch.

Just as I recommended you mix khaki and olive in an earlier spring style ensemble, I’m recommending mixing a light blue Grayers shirt with an even lighter shade of essential spring denim.  Abercrombie and Fitch should be a brand you add to your shopping list, if only because they make fine goods at great prices — the denim shown here is no exception, crafted with a hint of stretch and a wash that absolutely needs to be worn on a summer road trip … or a rainy day.
Florsheim

The Sneakers: SeaVees Mariner Boot — $178

SeaVees

Tough, supremely stylish and rain-ready — that’s what you’re getting here, folks.

I’ve sung the praises of the SeaVees Mariner Boot in weeks past on The Style Guide, from a Style Pick of the Week entry to a feature on the best transitional footwear for spring — and I’m not about to stop singing now. Made with sturdy British Ventile waterproof duck cotton crafted into a cool high-top sneaker upper, these boots are sturdy, durable and crisp enough to wear to the office with a lightweight navy blazer and perhaps the Grayers Jaspe Double Cloth Shirt.
Greats
The Socks: CHUP Prairie Socks — $35

CHUP socks

A unique pattern and quality construction help these socks inject some life into this ensemble.

In a rainy day style ensemble filled with crisp neutrals like tan, olive and navy blue, it’s perfectly OK to work in a little bit of pattern — especially if that means you get to wear some well-made CHUP socks. They’re certainly pricey — that’s why I’m only recommending you buy one pair — but that means they’ll provide nice breathability and comfort beneath your SeaVees Mariner Boots.

The Belt: Abercrombie and Fitch Braided Twill Belt — $28

Abercrombie and Fitch

Nothing fancy about this belt — just much-needed texture and casual style.

Because spring is as good a time as any to go for lighter textures and fabrics, that means it’s as good a time as any to pick up a braided belt for a nice value. And folks, that means we’re once again recommending you turn to Abercrombie and Fitch. It’s the little details that make for nice style upgrades, and even in the rain, it can be a solid move to work in some texture and visual interest via a highly wearable belt.

The Watch: Aulta Acuatico Automatic — $240

Aulta Watches

Plenty of water resistance and a handy rubber strap to combat the rain.

As much as it pains me to say it, sadly, the rain is no time to break out your favorite leather watch. No, precipitation and strong winds call for something sturdier and tougher — but still just as stylish.  Enter the Aulta Acuatico Automatic, a premium, rugged and crisp-yet-casual timepiece built to handle a little rain. Yes indeed, from the nicely sized 41mm case diameter to the accurate Miyota movement and 200 meters worth of water resistance, the Aulta Acuatico Automatic should be a go-to watch when the rain starts coming down.
Sutro Footwear

The Hat: Huckberry Explorer’s Cap — $39.98

Huckberry Explorer's Cap

Stylish, well-made and easygoing — everything you could ask for in a nice ballcap.

Last but not least — even with a protective layer like the Penfield Barnes Jacket, a handy ballcap such as the Huckberry Explorer’s Cap can actually go a long way in protecting you from a blustery storm. Delivered by the good folks at Huckberry  (who’d thunk that?), the Explorer’s Cap finishes off this outfit in a bit of throwback fashion. Complete with a cool design and stylish retro looks, it’s a subtly stylish ballcap that’s a definite style upgrade from an athletic logo cap.

Nautica

If you’re not ready to take on spring rains after perusing that blog post … I don’t know what to tell ya, folks! If you start with a durable and well-made jacket — like the Penfield Barnes Jacket — you’re putting yourself in position to take on inclement weather in style, for sure. And when you start with a breathable, rugged base layer like the Flint and Tinder Slub Henley, your ensemble is only going to get better. Adding on everyday essentials — from the Grayers Jaspe Double Cloth Shirt to a slim pair of Abercrombie and Fitch stretch denim — helps keep this outfit fresh, crisp and classic. And no outfit is complete with premium transitional footwear; namely, the SeaVees Mariner Boot  is going to help you put in a lot of miles despite the rain.  Lest you had any doubts on the feasibility of your watch game in a thunderstorm, the Aulta Acuatico Automatic is the way to go. As always, I hope these tips were helpful  — let me know via the Style Guide Facebook page how you’re suiting up to take on spring rain. We’ll see you tomorrow for our next #OOTD!

Stay stylish,

-Beau

NORDSTROM.com

Online Shopping Picks: The Best Light Wash Denim to Buy For Spring

At least according to your Style Guide author, there aren’t many areas where a great pair of dark blue denim won’t fit in.  Yet, as temperatures warm up and we start to get fully into spring, there’s just something that feels right about lightening up, letting go and …. dare I say it … shelving your sturdy selvedge denim in favor of slim light wash denim. OK, there — I said it. If you normally stick with inky blue dark denim,  it’s going to feel a bit odd reaching for a pair that’s both lighter in weight and lighter in color. Rest assured, though –reaching for light wash denim doesn’t have to mean sacrificing style points, fit or affordability. In fact, swapping in light wash denim in place of dark blue denim is a style move that’s easy to pull off when paired with classic spring (or summer) essentials.  Be it teaming a pair of light wash denim with your favorite leather jacket or rocking them alongside refined suede Chelsea boots and a marled henley, you still get nearly the same versatility compared to classic dark blue denim. If that sounds like something you’re interested in,  I’ve got just the #menswear shopping list for you. Let me know what you think in the comments, and drop me a line on The Style Guide Facebook page if ever you’ve got a question.

#1. Nudie Jeans Grim Tim — $226

Nudie Jeans

Style these with a dark navy blazer and a grey pocket tee for effortless cool and versatile style.

Right out of the gate, we’re recommending you go with a higher-than-average quality pair of denim — hence, the higher price tag. After all, if you’re only going to start with one pair of light wash denim, why not make it something eye-catching, unique and sharp, like the Grim Tim? Ya dig? These jeans are made from organic fibers and feature two percent stretch, in addition to a unique “Salty Summer” wash that’s practically begging to be worn on spring break or better yet, an upcoming summer road trip.

Sutro Footwear

#2. Todd Snyder Made in L.A. Selvedge in Medium Indigo Wash — $248

Not your average pair of dark indigo denim, but not fully faded either — a happy medium from an outstanding designer.

Leave it to your favorite menswear designer — or rather, my favorite menswear designer — to craft a pair of light wash denim that actually toes the line between dark and light. This pair is an easy-to-wear, high-quality and yes, super-pricey way to dip your toes into the pool that is expertly faded denim. And while we all love a crisp pair of dark blue selvedge denim, a lighter wash is sometimes the way to go — and there’s no question that you could stil wear the Todd Snyder Medium Indigo Wash Selvedge with everything from a khaki blazer to a slim pocket tee.
Beckett Simonon

#3. Abercrombie and Fitch Skinny Jeans in Light Wash — $78

Abercrombie & Fitch

A light wash and a slim fit from a quickly evolving brand — doesn’t get much better than that.

We’re back to what you might call a true pair of light wash denim for entry No. 3 in our latest Online Shopping Picks list. It should come as no surprise that as the menswear calendar continues to roll on, Abercrombie and Fitch gets better and better. From cold weather picks like the brand’s Chamois Shirt to spring-friendly pieces like these tailored light wash jeans, A&F really is turning into a one-stop shop. Know that they also offer Straight and Slim fits in a variety of denim washes — again, they’re a one-stop shop!

Greats

#4. Nudie Jeans Lean Dean — $200

Nudie Jeans Lean Dean

The ideal pair of casual denim — slim and well-made.

As first seen in this site’s feature on how to dress for the NCAA Tournament, the Nudie Jeans Lean Dean makes an appearance on this list that’s rightfully deserved. Featuring unique design touches — like orange stitching and copper trims — this particular pair favors a less extreme wash than the Grim Tim, yet it’s still a striking pair of light wash denim in its own right. The Lean Dean also features one percent stretch and a tailored fit; try these guys with a slim black leather jacket for a bit of throwback style as you head to your next rock concert. 

#5. Old Navy Built-In Flex Slim Jeans — $38

An affordable go-to if you want to try out light wash denim.

It’s hard to argue with a slim, well-fitting and nicely priced pair of denim from a reliable standby like Old Navy — right? The brand’s styling potential has improved markedly over the years, and if you want a pair of denim that works with a broken-in pocket tee or a casual polo, this is the pair for you. They’d also look just right atop classic chukka sneakers and, say, a tough leather jacket this spring. Again, you’re doing just fine if you pick these up.

Although at first it might feel odd trading in your trusty dark blue denim for light wash denim — as we discussed at the start of the post — it’s actually a style switch that can pay dividends. In terms of unique looks and easygoing wearability, light wash denim takes the cake. The lighter weight and lighter color are practically made for spring (and summer!), and you still get tremendous fit and excellent quality — particularly if you snag a pair like the lauded Nudie Jeans Grim Tim or the Nudie Jeans Lean Dean. Plus, plenty of affordability is in the mix, too — just look at the price point on  that Old Navy denim. Now, narrowing down any list can be difficult, so I’d urge you to hit me up on Twitter if you need your questions on light wash denim answered. Until then, let’s prep for spring in style — shall we?

See you out there,

-Beau

Online Shopping Picks: The Best Spring Jackets to Buy This Season

Now that we’re flying through March and closing quickly on April, it’s high time to talk about the best spring jackets to buy this season — are ya with me? It’s always a relevant topic as all of us battle showers and blustery winds, plus the occasional spring road trip. So, what type of jacket to buy for those various pursuits? Well, the good news is there are plenty of excellent styles to pick up for all of us #menswear lovers — from a stylish denim jacket to an investment-worthy moto jacket, we’ve got ’em all covered. The key here is looking for a piece that exudes casual-but-crisp and versatile style — so, it’s kind of like shopping for a stylish, slim topcoat. After all, the best spring jackets can be layered up with everything from a marled henley to a slim Oxford, a knit tie and your favorite chinos. I’d wager you’re going to want to pick up more than a few of the below jackets — with that in mind, we’ve looked for a combination of affordability, quality and great looks. So, check out the latest Online Shopping Picks entry, fill up your shopping cart and join me on Twitter to keep the discussion going.

Greats

#1. Levi’s Trucker Jacket — $70

It’s tough to find a spring jacket more classic — and perhaps iconic — than this one.

We’re kicking off this men’s style roundup with a look at perhaps the most essential piece of outerwear in your closet this spring – the trusty denim jacket. Particularly when made by an iconic brand like Levi’s, the denim jacket combines casual cool with functionality. Layer it up over your favorite cotton plaid shirt with slim chinos in place of a blazer, use it as a casual jacket for weekend road trips, and give it a shot over a printed shirt and olive cargo pants. Don’t be afraid to try a lighter-to-medium wash like the one shown – team that bad boy with slim grey denim for rock-inspired style, too.

#2. Taylor Stitch Moto Jacket — $1,075

Taylor Stitch Moto Jacket

Quite possibly the best leather jacket on the market right now — hands-down.

Jacket No. 2 comes to us via the fine folks at Taylor Stitch … boy, it is something else. Now, before you send me a bewildered email calling out the investment-level price tag, bear with me. There might not be a better, more versatile or more durable leather jacket on the market. Based off a classic café racer design, you might recognize the same silhouette (the Taylor Stitch Whiskey Moto Jacket) from a past entry on this site – however, we’re sticking with the slick Black Moto Jacket for spring style that’s at once sharp and effective. The weight and construction mean you can wear it with everything from a crewneck tee to a short-sleeve chambray shirt and even an Oxford and knit tie. Pick up the Black Moto Jacket ASAP and let me know what you think.

NOV CAMPAIGN: Photo of black boots with logo (no border)

#3. Bridge and Burn Northfork Woodland Jacket — $198

A combination of utilitarian function, toughness and great looks.

While a stylish leather jacket or a rugged denim jacket are always effective #menswear moves, there’s something to be said for reaching for a spring jacket with functionality top of mind. That’s what you get with the Northfork Woodland Jacket in a classic shade of olive green. The lightweight cotton makes it ideal for layering on chilly spring nights, and the plethora of pockets — say that five times fast — gives you plenty of space for your everyday carry on spring weekend adventures. Match this guy up with suede Chelsea boots and perhaps a pair of the best light wash denim for spring the next time you head to your local watering hole – trust me.

#4. Abercrombie & Fitch Bonded Mac Jacket — $99

A versatile overcoat that’s at once functional and stylish.

As we’ve written about often here at The Style Guide, Abercrombie & Fitch consistently continues to up it men’s style game. From surprisingly hard-wearing outerwear like this Bonded Mac Jacket to vintage-inspired layering pieces like the Abercrombie & Fitch Wool Shirt, each piece is injected with DNA from the brand’s illustrious past – yet it all feels very modern. This waterproof jacket gives you both a tailored, slim silhouette – ideal for wearing over a navy suit on weekdays – and go-anywhere versatility (equally perfect for matching up with slim sweatpants and sharp leather sneakers on weekend coffee runs).

#5. Iron and Resin Academy Bomber — $149.98

Iron & Resin

A sturdy bomber jacket — just the style you need this season.

If there’s one silhouette that’s stuck around the menswear world with no signs of stopping, it’s the bomber jacket. And if there’s one brand this spring that’s taking a rather unique approach to the style staple, it’s Iron and Resin. Known for its road-ready moto gear, the brand is offering the crisply designed Academy Bomber in a versatile colorway just in time for spring – bingo. Rock this one with navy chinos and brown leather loafers atop a classic chambray shirt for a mix of high-low style, and match it up with a marled short-sleeve henley and rugged dark blue denim for a little bit o’ Saturday night cool.

Frank & Oak

Honorable Mention: K-Way Claude Laminated Solid Jacket — $59.98

Nothing too fancy — just a basic, functional and subtly stylish windbreaker.

For all this talk of the benefits of owning a stylish moto jacket or a versatile bomber jacket, there are just some times when you need to stay dry in the rain and get from point A to point B. That’s where the K-Way Claude Laminated Solid Jacket enters the equation. It plays off the brand’s original mission – outfitting Frenchmen in the rain – and it does so at a great price. The Claude Jacket is effective and head-turning in its own way – it’s perfect for tossing on for a bike ride or an outdoor hike, then packing into, say, a heritage-quality leather weekender on spring road trips.

Now, am I encouraging you to go out and buy each and every one of these jackets? Maybe. Budget permitting. But in all seriousness, finding the right spring jacket boils down to your lifestyle – if you suit up frequently and need to fight the rain, a bonded mac jacket is going to be the way to go. If casual, crisp style is your thing, snag the Iron and Resin Academy Bomber. If you move quickly from place to place and want something simple and stylish, pick up the K-Way Claude Laminated Solid Jacket. And if you want a piece of outerwear that really can do it all, I’d highly recommend grabbing the Levi’s Trucker Jacket or the Taylor Stitch Moto Jacket – especially the Moto Jacket. I guarantee you certainly won’t be disappointed once you get past the price. Let’s not forget the benefits of owning a stylish utility jacket such as the one shown from our friends at Bridge and Burn. With all that being said, I hope you’re as excited to dress for spring in style as I am – let’s get out there and get to it!

Thanks for reading and stay stylish,

-Beau

#OOTD: How to Wear Your New Favorite Leather Jacket This Spring

Before we get too far ahead of ourselves — welcome back to another entry in our weekly #OOTD series. Before we dive in — perhaps you might be set on spring outerwear so far? If so, good for you — there’s no question we all need pieces like a tough waxed trucker jacket to wear  this spring.  However, there are absolutely other layering tools you should consider this season.  Lucky for you, we’ve covered a lot of ground on layering in recent weeks, including the best way to wear a cardigan. Well now, we’re taking things a bit of a different direction — a slightly edgier direction, notably. Specifically, we’re dialing in the best way to wear a stylish leather jacket this spring. OK, OK … there are  admittedly several great ways to wear an investment-level leather jacket for spring. But your Style Guide author sure digs the below combination — and it’s quite easy to love, what with the fact that it features the inimitable, one-of-a-kind Taylor Stitch Moto Jacket.  How cool is this jacket? Well … the Moto Jacket could very well be the last leather jacket you ever buy. Enough with the theatrics, though — let’s get to the #OOTD. Scroll down below to see the full look, and catch my daily looks on Instagram if you need more inspiration. Oh, and you should follow me on Twitter if you want to keep up with my stream-of-conscious thoughts on men’s style. OK, away we go!

Beckett Simononootd-leather-jacket-grid

The Jacket: Taylor Stitch Moto Jacket, $1,075 — Recognize this bad boy? Of course you do — the Taylor Stitch Moto Jacket is known across the World Wide Web for its insane combination of quality, toughness and style. In short, it’s the perfect stylish leather jacket to buy right now — and wear a ton this season.

The Henley: Abercrombie & Fitch Short-Sleeve Henley in White, $25 — When a brand like Abercrombie & Fitch keeps churning out seasonal staples at great prices, it’s tough not to love ’em. Such is the case with your new favorite short-sleeve henley.

The Denim: Nudie Jeans Dude Dan Jean, $208 — Now, we’ll have a rundown of the best men’s light wash denim for spring coming up in the next few weeks. But for now, I’d urge you to pick up the slim, high-quality Nudie Jeans Dude Dan Jean from our great pals at Huckberry.

Frank & Oak

The Belt: Abercrombie & Fitch Woven Leather Belt, $44 — For all the talk of gaudy accessories being all the rage, sometimes, it pays off to keep things understated and casual. A textured leather belt is one way to do that.

The Chukka Boots: Astorflex Greenflex in Dark Khaki, $145 — If you’re not yet acquainted with the sustainable, stylish and unique work being done by Astorflex, I’d urge you to catch up. Maybe start by picking up the Astorflex Greenflex in Dark Khaki? Good job.

The Socks: Mack Weldon Performance Dress Socks, $24 — Did ya catch this site’s Mack Weldon review? Maybe not? Either way, Mack Weldon dress socks are just as worthy of your hard-earned dollars as the brand’s other gear.

The Watch: Marathon General Purpose Quartz Watch, $150 — When you’ve got leather jacket like the Taylor Stitch Moto Jacket, it’s best to let it do the talking. In this case, we’re sticking with a tough casual watch — enter the Marathon General Purpose Quartz Watch.

The Sunglasses: Fort Knocks Polarized Sunglasses, $30 — For a mix of retro style and plain old cool looks, you can’t beat the Fort Knocks Polarized Sunglasses. Plus, how outstanding is that price?

And that’s a wrap for this week’s #OOTD — have any new ideas on how to wear your new favorite leather jacket? I sure hope so. I know I’ll be coveting the Taylor Stitch Moto Jacket for a long, long time — maybe you’re in the same boat? But the point is, there’s really no wrong way to wear an outstanding leather jacket like the Moto Jacket — particularly if you pair it with a rugged short-sleeve henley and crisp spring style essentials like the slim, slightly edgy Nudie Jeans Dude Dan Jean and a sustainable pair of chukkas like the Astorflex Greenflex in Dark Khaki. And it always helps to finish off a look with durable accessories in mind — that’s where the Marathon General Purpose Quartz Watch and the Fort Knocks Polarized Sunglasses enter the equation.  Alright, all ready to go? Enjoy the day and check back tomorrow for more great men’s style content on the blog.

Shop on and stay stylish,

-Beau

#OOTD: The Best Way to Dress on St. Patrick’s Day This Year

OK, folks — let’s belly up to the bar, grab a Guinness… wait a second. No no no,  wait … what is that you’re wearing? C’mon, man. No shamrock suits today. All joking aside, today’s #OOTD should  (hopefully) be quite helpful, as we’re tackling the best men’s style gear to wear on St. Patrick’s Day — and we’re doing it relatively affordably and quite stylishly (if I do say so myself). St. Patrick’s Day — St. Paddy’s Day, to all of us AP Style nitpickers — is a day that might’ve once meant skipping class for a few celebratory pints … if that’s still the case, let’s trade spots. Now though, you might find yourself at the office and then hopping around for a Black-and-Tan or two. As always, the key question is … what to wear? Specifically, how to dress in business casual style that’s still comfortable and situationally appropriate? Lucky for ya, ye Style Guide reader, you’ve got the luck of the Irish on your side and … ahh, who am I kidding. Let’s get to the #menswear, shall we? Follow along on Instagram and Twitter for all the style news & musings you can handle, and let me know how you feel about this #OOTD in the comments.
Beckett Simonon

A touch of green, a rugged cardigan and casual denim. All solid holiday picks.

A touch of green, a rugged cardigan and casual denim. All solid holiday picks.

The Shirt: Abercrombie & Fitch Garment-Dye Oxford Shirt, $39 — Here’s the focal point of your outfit, a nice way to show people you’re rocking some green — and an even better shirt to have with you for that spring bar crawl

The Cardigan: Iron & Resin Fletcher Cardigan, $110.98 — While you could also layer up with a piece like the Todd Snyder x Champion Pocket Sweatshirt, the Fletcher Cardigan offers similar comfort and visual interest.

The Denim: Nudie Jeans Lean Dean, $200 — Between the one percent stretch, the tailored-yet-comfortable fit and the casual rinsed wash, the Lean Dean is a nice pair of easygoing denim for a day that demands it.

The Boots: JackThreads Mac Desert Chukka, $49.98 — I haven’t tested these shoes out myself, but I’d wager they’ll be just the right blend of casual and comfortable. And hey, you get nice quality for a standout price.
Frank & Oak

The Belt: Abercrombie & Fitch Woven Leather Belt, $44 — Between the casual suede chukkas and the laidback Nudie Jeans Lean Dean denim, a textured belt is just the way to go. 

The Watch: Jack Mason Aviator 3-Hand Watch, $205 — While you could reach for a casual NATO strap watch like the Timex x Todd Snyder Mod Watch, the Jack Mason Aviator 3-Hand Watch is both durable and handsome.

The Everyday Carry: Scout Hook Keychain Bottle Opener, $60 — Part bottle opener, part keychain and just the handy accessory you need for a St. Paddy’s Day party. Hey, you won’t lose a bottle opener or your keys.

The Must-Have: Bellroy The Phone Wallet (iPhone 7), $89.95 — Even if you’re not blessed with an iPhone 7, accessories from Bellroy  should handsomely round out your St. Patrick’s Day. Plus, the Phone Wallet protects from all sorts of damage (spilled beer, anyone?).

It’s critical to keep in mind that you don’t want to go overboard on St. Patrick’s Day — that is, in matters of dress or matters of Guiness consumption. Working just a touch of green into your outfit is a solid way to nod to the day, yet a layering piece like the Iron & Resin Fletcher Cardigan helps offset it stylishly and casually. For the warmer spring months, it’s also a great move to have casual-yet-essential light wash denim like the Nudie Jeans Lean Dean in your rotation. Suede chukkas keep the outfit squarely in casual territory, and a durable watch like the Jack Mason Aviator 3-Hand is a go-anywhere essential. Rounding out your everyday carry with functionality and toughness in mind is also critical — enter the Scout Hook Keychain Bottle Opener and the Bellroy Phone Wallet. Lastly — enjoy the day in style, pick up the menswear you need for the occasion, and raise a glass for me!

Cheers,

-Beau