Tag / abercrombie & fitch

by Beau H.

#OOTD: How to Wear a Classic Oxford This Winter

Perhaps like your Style Guide author, you’re starting to get into the swing of things when it comes to revamping your style this year. New Year’s resolutions, particularly men’s style resolutions, can be tough to start and even tougher to keep — but if one of your resolutions involves working more classic pieces into your wardrobe, the first #OOTD of 2017 should help you do just that. It’s all about picking a classic piece — the Oxford shirt — and finding a winter weather-friendly way to wear it (if you’re in a warmer climate, you can certainly keep this look while ditching a few layers).  Now, we talked about how to wear an Oxford last winter, but this particular look refreshes things a bit. In this case, that involves taking some rugged pieces (like the Taylor Stitch Rover Jacket) and pairing them up with tried-and-true, essential layers (like a henley sweater that you might recognize from my winter trip to Baltimore). And although you might not see ’em in the below grid, remember to layer up with stylish winter accessories. OK, ready to get started with how to wear an Oxford this winter? Of course you are. Let’s connect on Twitter to talk more menswear, and I hope you enjoy this week’s #OOTD!

Starting with a classic Oxford and adding a tough jacket, warm layers and classic accessories.

Starting with a classic Oxford and adding a tough jacket, warm layers and classic accessories.

The Jacket: Taylor Stitch Rover Jacket, $298 — So, as mentioned earlier, here’s the starting layer — the tough, durable, handsome and versatile Rover Jacket from Taylor Stitch. Yes, it’s all of those things at once. Lined in moleskin, it features a tightly spun cotton canvas exterior for warmth and functionality on cold days.

The Sweater: Abercrombie & Fitch Wool-Blend Henley Sweater, $44 — Part henley, part sweater and all comfort and throwback style. It’s the perfect middle layer beneath a rugged jacket, and the three-button placket provides some visual interest against the Oxford shirt. Speaking of…

The Shirt: Abercrombie & Fitch Oxford Shirt, $28.80 — Consider this another “new classic” from the majorly revamped Abercrombie & Fitch brand. It’s modern, it’s versatile and it’s very affordable — plus, the “Mint” color is a  nice change of pace and really leans more blue than green.

The Chinos: J. Crew Factory Driggs Broken-in Chino, $29.50 — When it comes to affordable staples that get the job done, the Driggs Chino — in slim fit, no less — performs well in winter… and spring… and summer, come to think of it.
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The Boots: G.H. Bass Buxton Boots, $425 — While people tend to think of Bass for its classic leather loafers, the brand also makes one heck of a pair of USA-produced boots. These are handsome and remarkably tough, preppy yet rugged.

The Belt: J. Crew Factory Washed Leather Belt, $19.50 — Just as with the Driggs Chinos above, J. Crew Factory gets it right when it comes to versatile, affordable accessories — particularly this casual washed leather belt.

The Socks: American Trench Fair Isle Sock in Merino & Cashmere, $28.98 — Is it worth it to spend nearly $30 on socks? When they’re made in America by the great purveyors at American Trench, then the answer is YES.

The Watch: Jack Mason Racing Chronograph, $305 — When you mix in so many heavy textures — like the henley sweater and the tough Taylor Stitch Rover Jacket — you can counter that with a rather sleek, fast and sporty watch like this Jack Mason timepiece.

When it comes to a timeless piece like the Oxford, the best thing you can do is shake things up — sometimes. Of course, the shirt will always have its place in classic business casual offerings — and this outfit could work in much the same way — but adding rugged outerwear piece like the Rover Jacket mixes things up.  Plus, if the new Abercrombie & Fitch keeps churning out stellar pieces, you’ll want to wear that wool-blend henley sweater as often as possible.  And complementing classic and rugged pieces with slim chinos and tough-as-heck G.H. Bass boots is a foolproof way to look great no matter the weather — yes, even when dressing for the polar vortex. If you have any suggestions for how to finish off this #OOTD , let me know in the comments below.

Stay warm, stay stylish and thanks for kicking off the new year in style!

-Beau

by Beau H.

#OOTD: Dressing for a Casual Christmas

Editor’s note: You’ve surely seen this hashtag lots of different places, including on Instagram. But how does that carry over to real life? The #OOTD series will take one great item and put together a versatile, stylish outfit around it. Look for past features here.

OK, so we’re coming at you with a Thursday edition of the #OOTD series. Namely, we’re just a few days out from Christmas — that came up quick, yes? Hopefully, you turned to The Style Guide (or another one of your favorite menswear blogs?) to knock out your holiday shopping. Still need a gift for her? Fear not. Or maybe you want to add an item or two to your holiday men’s style wish list? Easy does it. Oh, and that leaves another crucial question — what are you going to wear for the occasion? Whether you’ve got one last holiday party to dress for or if you’re approaching the day with a bit more formality, we’ve got you covered when it comes to dressing for Christmas. And that’s why today’s #OOTD covers another potential holiday style scenario: the casual holiday. Maybe you’ll be spending the day at your house and venturing out later for a movie or a drink with friends, or perhaps you’re taking it easy while on a holiday trip over the river and through the woods– either way, dressing with some polish is key. We’re not talking about going overboard — leave the velvet dressing gown at home. No, we’re talking about a crisp, casual outfit that looks stylish, fits great and is a bit better-suited for venturing out in public than your pajamas. If you choose to stay in your PJs all day — hey, nothing wrong with that. But if you want to look a bit more cleaned up while still feeling comfortable? I’m your guy … or rather, the below #OOTD is the one to shop.  Chime in over on Twitter if you’ve got questions, additions or deletions when it comes to this look. Hit me up on Instagram if you want to see how I’m styling my Christmas Day #menswear picks, while we’re here.

Cozy, casual, comfortable and yet ... quite put-together.

Cozy, casual, comfortable and yet … quite put-together.

The Cardigan: Abercrombie & Fitch Belted Shawl Cardigan, $75 –We’re kicking things off with a really unique, effortlessly stylish sweater from the new and very improved Abercrombie & Fitch — the Camel color is eye-catching and pairs nicely with our other casual picks.

The T-Shirt: Barking Irons Brando Tee, $49 (2-Pack) — You could always reach for a classic chambray shirt if you wanted something a bit more cleaned up, but a textured cotton tee with unique design details — like a scalloped hem and slightly raised sleeves — is a cool, effortless pick.

The Denim: Mugsy Jeans Kinzie Denim, $98 — Who said denim has to be uncomfortable? Mugsy jeans are built with more room in the crotch and a ton of flexibility for a great — plus, the light wash is more casual, and these jeans look a bit more crisp than tailored sweats.

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The Watch: Timex + Todd Snyder Red Wing Leather Chronograph in Grey, $158 — Even if you’re just hanging around the house, it can be fun to throw on a stylish casual watch — especially one from Todd Snyder.

The Belt: J. Crew Factory Braided Leather Belt, $29.99 — Let’s keep it casual on the accessories front — a trusty braided leather belt is comfortable and mixes in some cold-weather texture.

The Socks: CHUP Churro Socks, $35 — Limited edition, nature-inspired prints on a comfortable pair of CHUP socks? Sign me up. They’re pricey, but very well-made and eye-catching — perfect holiday style, in short.

The Sneakers: SeaVees White Walls Mid-Cut Wintertide Sneaker, $98 — Sneakers in the winter? Yes, sir. You can always grab a pair of durable leather boots if snow is in the mix, but if it’s simply a bit chilly? These casual-yet-crisp mid-top sneakers are made with navy flannel fabric and blend right in with this ensemble.

The Grooming Kit: Harry’s Deluxe Truman Set, $35 — Just because it’s a casual Christmas doesn’t mean you shouldn’t get cleaned up a bit, ehh? This deluxe shaving set has everything you need to look great through the new year.

OK, we’ve got your unique, modern and comfortable belted cardigan, your classic T-shirt and slim stretch denim. Those are the building blocks of a nice cold-weather casual ensemble  in fall or winter, yet they work particularly well for lounging around — yet looking great — this holiday season. When you complement those pieces with a durable leather watch and a pair of premium patterned socks, you’re set with a look that’s versatile and sharp. Navy flannel sneakers are a unique finishing touch, too. Of course, putting in a little extra effort when it comes to winter grooming essentials is a solid move, too — and if you happen to be spending some time with your significant other on Christmas, they’ll appreciate it. How will you be dressing for a casual Christmas? Or do you still have some holiday shopping to finish up before you worry about what you’re wearing? Again, check out our women’s holiday gift guide for quick and easy picks.

Stay stylish and enjoy the season!

-Beau

by Beau H.

Signs of Light: A December weekend in Baltimore

Layered up for a pit stop at Artifact Coffee. Wool-Blend Topcoat by Old Navy. Snow Bridge Cardigan by Eddie Bauer. Denim shirt by JackThreads. Travel Jeans by Bonobos. Lockridge Moc Toe Boots by Cole Haan. Calypso Watch by MVMT Watches. Glasses by Frameri. Cashmere hat by Club Monaco.

Layered up for a pit stop at Artifact Coffee in Baltimore. Wool-Blend Topcoat by Old Navy. Snow Bridge Cardigan by Eddie Bauer. Denim shirt by JackThreads. Travel Jeans by Bonobos. Lockridge Moc Toe Boots by Cole Haan. Calypso Watch by MVMT Watches. Glasses by Frameri. Cashmere hat by Club Monaco.

As I traveled down the East Coast this past Friday morning, I was able to look back on a heck of a lot of things besides the crisp winter scenery. It was outstanding to reflect on a great year of work, of time with family and friends, of travel and a great year of celebrating some of my passions — including live music and menswear, all rolled into one. And it was as good a time as any for this Style Guide author to catch a great show and bring along some of my favorite men’s style essentials, yet again. My travels this time around took me to the unique and ever-changing city of Baltimore to see joyous indie folk rockers The Head and The Heart — that’s a definite recipe for success. I’ve been really lucky to be able to travel in style (of course) so frequently to see great bands, from an upstate trip to see Lucius to a weekend trip to Providence to see (perhaps) my favorite band, West Coast indie rockers Local Natives. So it was fitting that on one of the last weekends of the year, I took to the trail again. What did I bring with me? Only the best gear I could pack into my Owen & Fred weekender bag — you knew that bag was sturdy as heck and travel-friendly, right?

Rugged layers for a chilly weekend. Wool Shirt by Abercrombie & Fitch. Yosemite Shirt by Taylor Stitch. Donegal Trousers by JackThreads. Red Wing Leather Waterbury Chrono by Timex _ Todd Snyder. Ranger Gloves by Grifter Company. Glasses by Frameri. Cashmere hat by Club Monaco.

Rugged layers for a chilly weekend. Wool Shirt by Abercrombie & Fitch. Yosemite Shirt by Taylor Stitch. Donegal Trousers by JackThreads. Red Wing Leather Waterbury Chrono by Timex _ Todd Snyder. Ranger Gloves by Grifter Company. Glasses by Frameri. Cashmere hat by Club Monaco.

As seems to be the case with the weather across much of the country, the weekend was an especially frigid one in Baltimore — and NYC. For my train ride down the coast and a day exploring Baltimore, I layered up accordingly as seen at the top of the page, starting with my trusty JackThreads denim shirt. Of course, a stylish shawl cardigan proved a crucial layering piece given the chill, and I prepared accordingly with the durable, thick-knit and unique Eddie Bauer Snow Bridge Cardigan. I topped those layers off with the slim, warm Old Navy Wool-Blend Topcoat, an unexpected offering from a brand that keeps improving its apparel and outerwear game. For a blend of flexibility, comfort and style — crucial when sitting on a train for a few hours, then moving about the city — my trusty Bonobos Travel Jeans in Allegheny Oak fit the bill perfectly, and played nicely in terms of color off my sturdy, tough-wearing Cole Haan Lockridge Moc Toe Boots. You might recognize those boots from this site’s piece on how to dress for the first snowfall, and they’ve got plenty of weather-ready bells and whistles — they’re waterproof and feature the brand’s Grand.OS technology, for starters. When paired up with my reliable-as-ever MVMT Watches Calypso Watch and tough accessories like my Grifter Company Ranger Gloves, I was more than set to battle the chill.

I also brought along my trusty Brothers Leather 810 Wallet .It’s a beautiful, handmade and essential wallet — and you can get 15% off that wallet, or any Brothers Leather item, using the code ‘BrotherBeau15’! Seriously, look into upgrading your everyday carry ASAP. Know that the next time you hit the road to a chilly locale, you should pack as many durable winter accessories as you can, too.

The everyday carry for a quick road trip. Ranger Gloves by Grifter Company. Wallet by Brothers Leather (Get 15% off with the code 'BrotherBeau15'! Calypso Watch by MVMT Watches. Pen by Owen & Fred.

The everyday carry for a quick road trip. Ranger Gloves by Grifter Company. Wallet by Brothers Leather (Get 15% off with the code ‘BrotherBeau15’! Calypso Watch by MVMT Watches. Pen by Owen & Fred.

Stop number one on my trip? Of course, a stellar coffee shop — that’d be Artifact Coffee, and I’d absolutely recommend a trip of your own if ever you get to Baltimore. It’s a rustic backdrop for a tasty egg-and-bacon English muffin and a rich cup of coffee, plus some quiet writing and reflection. Properly caffeinated following an early train ride, a stop at one of the city’s neat menswear shops was in order. 16Tons — not a far walk from Artifact — is packed to the gills with vintage menswear, including sturdy tweed blazers, stonewashed denim jackets and a fair selection of tough moto boots. With my fill of menswear shopping, it was time for a much-needed burger at the lauded Abbey Burger Bistro — add the Guinness cheddar to your burger and top it off with a local Union Red Foxy IPA. I walked off the burger with a stroll through the neat Inner Harbor and Federal Hill areas of Baltimore, filled with beautiful red brick historic homes.

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With a great lunch and a great day of exploration around Baltimore behind me, I was more than ready for a long-awaited show from The Head and The Heart — seeing as I missed the band’s NYC tour stop in October after years of listening, it was high time I got around to seeing them. Looking back on 2016, the group’s stellar third album, “Signs of Light,” was one of my favorites for its joyous, uplifting message, powerful harmonies, subtle pop influences and soaring guitars. It’s the kind of music we need a bit — or a lot — more of, and it resulted in a stunning live show that was a joy to watch.With a full day to look ahead to the show, I was beyond excited — and because I packed light and relied on style staples like the tough-yet-comfortable Cole Haan Lockridge Moc Toe Boots and the durable MVMT Watches Calypso Watch I was able to transition from day to night and fully enjoy the concert.

Checking out a new music venue in a new city is always a neat endeavor, and a packed Ram’s Head Live didn’t disappoint. The buzzing,  multi-level venue also drew a nice crowd for folk rock trio Joseph, themselves a group quickly on the rise and capable of producing some powerful songs in the vein of Lucius or HAIM — yes, they’re that good.  And they nicely complemented a beautiful performance from The Head and The Heart, who absolutely didn’t disappoint. I’d recommend you see them as soon as you can — the band’s beautiful vocals and soaring songs — soaring is the only way to describe it — were incredible. From the opener “All We Ever Knew” to a huge rendition of “Rivers and Roads” and stirring, fun versions of “Lost in My Mind” and “Shake,” it was among the better shows I’ve seen this year — and that’s saying something!
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With an amazing live show in the books, I looked ahead to an excellent Saturday of Baltimore, including an amazing brunch & Bloody Mary at Baltimore institution Miss Shirley’s. Of course, a delicious, rich Nutella latte from 3 Bean Coffee was also in order. With chilly temperatures in the forecast yet again, I went with sturdy layers to fight the cold.. Namely, my slim and refined JackThreads Donegal Trousers provided a bit of a high-low style complement to my heritage-inspired Abercrombie & Fitch Wool Shirt. Given the blustery, frigid weather, I also threw on my much-loved Taylor Stitch Yosemite Shirt, as seen at the top of the post. It’s a soft, warm and essential layering piece. And on the watch front, it doesn’t get any better than my rugged and durable Timex + Todd Snyder Red Wing Leather Chronograph, all of which helped me navigate Baltimore in warmth and good time — seriously!

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Unique, versatile layers for a blustery Brooklyn day. Wool-Blend Henley Sweater and Belted Shawl Cardigan by Abercrombie & Fitch. Kinzie Jeans by Mugsy Jeans. Sutter Boots by CAT Footwear. Red Wing Leather Chronograph by Timex + Todd Snyder. Socks by To Boot New York. Wallet by Brothers Leather (get 15 percent off Brothers Leather goods with the code ‘BrotherBeau15’!

Unfortunately, my trip was over much too soon, and it was time to head back to  NYC. The ceaseless cold weather showed no signs of relenting on Sunday, so I again reached for critical layers, starting with a brand-new, rugged-and-refined Abercrombie & Fitch Wool-Blend Henley Sweater. It’s a rich addition to any wardrobe, affordably priced and featuring a neat blend of sport and heritage-inspired style. For an afternoon spent exploring Williamsburg, I accented the sweater with a distinctive Abercrombie & Fitch Belted Shawl Cardigan — you can expect to see a lot more of this unique, comfortable layering piece soon. On the footwear front, I found myself reaching once again for my durable, tough CAT Footwear Sutter Boots — the brown burnishing is a handsome and classic design touch. And whether in cold weather or on a warm, sunny day, you really can’t go wrong with the ridiculously comfortable Kinzie Jeans from Mugsy Jeans, made with a ton of stretch for ease of movement. I complemented the ensemble with the Timex + Todd Snyder Red Wing Leather Chronograph yet again — it’s a tough watch to pass up wearing!

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As I bundled up heading back through Brooklyn, it was great to be able to reflect on a stellar weekend. It featured some of my favorite things — live music, menswear, travel and a requisite helping of craft beer and great burgers! It doesn’t really get any better, especially packed into the span of a few days. And any time I get to spend at my favorite spots in Brooklyn is also time well-spent. It’s been a whirlwind month of December — and a whirlwind year — but I’m really thankful to get the chance to travel, see great shows and bring along stylish menswear in the process. If you’ve got your own holiday travel coming up, I hope it goes well — and if you’ve still got gifts to buy, check out our men’s holiday gift guide, along with the women’s holiday gift guide. Happy shopping!

Thanks as always for reading — stay stylish!

-Beau

by Beau H.

Heading north: A weekend in Upstate New York

Editor’s note: To check out more northeast travel style, click here.

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The right gear for a rugged fall day. Faux Shearling Aviator Jacket by Johnston & Murphy. Wool Shirt by Abercrombie and Fitch. Slim-Fit Tapered Leg X-Series Denim by Dickies. Sutter Boots by CAT Footwear. North Fork Leather Fedora by Goorin Brothers. Glasses by Frameri.

If you’ve been following along with us at The Style Guide in this grand fall #menswear adventure, you know that I love to travel. It seems that theme has come up quite a bit, but there’s something about certain times of year — especially fall — that I associate with great vistas and great travel. Be it heading northeast to Providence to see an all-time favorite band (that would be Local Natives) to stopping through my home state of Michigan last month, this season has been a terrific time to hit the road with my favorite menswear gear in tow.  And in the case of this past weekend, that took me to the lovely upstate town of Hudson — it came highly recommended to me via my good friend & fellow blogger Alex Luckey, and seeing as I’m never one to pass up a chance to get out of the city and relax, I had to do it. How does one travel in style from NYC to a quiet town of about 7,000? I set out to do just that.

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More fall exploration around the rustic outskirts of Hudson. Faux Shearling Aviator Jacket by Johnston & Murphy. Wool Shirt by Abercrombie and Fitch. Slim-Fit Tapered Leg X-Series Denim by Dickies. Sutter Boots by CAT Footwear. Tweed Ripley Cap by Kangol. Glasses by Frameri.

Now, I had traveled upstate on a Memorial Day trip earlier this summer, but Hudson presented its own set of challenges. It was a chilly Friday morning in New York City, and chillier upstate.  I knew my Johnston & Murphy Faux Shearling Aviator would more than stand up to a crisp fall breeze — and it did so while providing great value. The fit is relatively slim, but I had more than enough room to comfortably layer my rugged Abercrombie & Fitch Wool Shirt and a trusty long-sleeve henley underneath. The multi-layered combo was perfect for the lovely autumn weather and the quaint, cultured small town of Hudson. For a denim option fit for both NYC and upstate, I grabbed my Dickies X-Series Slim-Fit Tapered Leg 5-Pocket Pant — it’s a comfortable, well-fitting and affordable pair of ringpsun cotton pants with a hint of stretch. I topped the look off with the seasonally appropriate Kangol Tweed Ripley Cap and a pair of seriously tough CAT Footwear Sutter Boots — talk about mixing function and fashion. Of course, I also couldn’t resist the urge to break out a sharp, vintage-inspired North Fork Leather Fedora from Goorin Brothers — it’s a beautiful hat that I picked it up at the brand’s terrific West Village shop at a neat event hosted with Courvoisier Cognac. Now, a wide-brimmed leather fedora might not be for everyone, but it might very well move into my rotation soon. In short, the combination was perfect for a day exploring Hudson. The next time you find yourself moving quickly from one spot to the other, an easy-to-wear leather jacket, layers to combat the cold and tough leather boots are key.

Now, what exactly is there to do in a small upstate town? Actually, a heck of a lot. Hudson has quickly developed a reputation as a burgeoning enclave for outstanding arts and culture — the small town plays host to well over a dozen art galleries that display a mix of modern, contemporary pieces and local works. On top of that, there’s a vibrant music and film scene, starting with the reclaimed industrial Basilica Hudson complex, as seen above — the space hosts both experimental music performances and weekly film screenings. Plus, there’s a treasure trove of vintage, vintage-inspired and reclaimed clothing — particularly at Artists and Revolutionaries, seen at the top of this post.  And as the city’s cultural scene has grown, a really excellent gourmet food scene has sprung up — that was evident on my first stop of the trip. A quick caffeine jolt was crucial at Rev Coffee, known for its well-curated approach to roasting and pastries. The town’s proximity to the gorgeous Hudson River waterfront is also prime — the scenery and fresh air was much needed coming from the hustle and bustle of New York City.

Make no mistake, once you amble away from the water, there are still plenty of places to explore. Part lodge, part bar, part shop and full of rustic, rugged vibes. W.M. Farmer & Sons was nearly worth the trip in and of itself. This stunning outpost serves up home goods, lifestyle wares and a heck of a meal — along with an accompanying hotel. Even in Brooklyn, there’s really nothing like it — and that’s mighty refreshing. With a coffee bar that’s open daily and a strong selection of craft beer and cocktails — including a tasty bourbon-and-cider concoction known as the Bear Trap — you could certainly kill a few hours hanging out in this beautiful space. Yes, with my aviator jacket, tweed cap and rugged Timex x Red Wing Waterbury Chrono, I felt like I fit right in with the location’s old-time charm. Oh, and I’d highly recommend the the Cast Iron Bar Burger if you’re feeling hungry. A delicious gourmet meal definitely called for a nightcap at the neat, eclectic and pleasingly minimal OR Gallery and Tavern, an Iceland-inspired, converted auto garage that serves as a bar, gallery and accessories shop. Their refreshing selection of craft beer was topped only by the night’s festivities — a neat, intimate performance from Nico Turner of long-running, eclectic rock outfit Cat Power. Again, the ambiance was entirely unique for an upstate trip — and my daytime gear took me right on through to a chilly night in style.

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Enjoying a coffee in the crisp fall air outside the OR Gallery and Tavern. Waxed Cotton Field Jacket by Johnston & Murphy. Striker Sweater by Johnnie-O. White Oxford by Todd Snyder. Kinzie Denim by Mugsy Jeans. Plaid scarf by Ties.com Waterbury Chrono by Timex x Red Wing Heritage. Glasses by Frameri. Cognac Suede Wingtips by Thursday Boots.

Even with an active Friday in the books, Saturday called for more exploration yet. Even for a smaller town, Hudson is filled with neat sights around every corner — and when you start the day off with a stop at MOTO Coffee/Machine, you’re sure to fuel up the right way (trust me …. I love my coffee).  And luckily, my gear was more than up to the fall weather. I took on a chilly morning with my Johnston & Murphy Waxed Cotton Field Jacket, a heritage-inspired piece with plenty of durability. It layered easily over a slim, soft and comfortable Striker Sweater from the fine prep clothiers at Johnnie-O — don’t sleep on the quality of the brand’s knitwear, as it’s undoubtedly worth the investment. My Ties.com Syracuse Fringed Scarf helped me fight the afternoon breeze, too. And the mix of sporty and heritage gear was offset nicely by a versatile Todd Shelton White Oxford. I finished off the look with a pair of Kinzie Jeans from Mugsy Jeans — they’re cut with room to move,  perfect for exploring a hip town in style. They offered a casual contrast alongside my tough, durable Cognac Suede Wingtips from the fine folks at Thursday Boots — they’re a brand-new offering for the company, and they’re worth the purchase. The combination was nicely offset again by my reliable, handsome Timex x Red Wing Waterbury Chrono.

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As the day presented with it plenty of exploration, I was more than happy to have trusty gear with me for the ride. From a rich coffee to gallery strolling and menswear shopping at the immensely well-curated Mutiny NY, I was more than happy to have the chance to visit such a neat, diverse and thoughtful town on a beautiful fall Saturday. Mutiny NY in particular represented some of the best menswear shopping on the Hudson — we’re talking brands from The Hill-Side to Universal Works. Topping the day off with an excellent mackerel dish at the rustic-yet-refined Fish & Game proved a neat capper to an overnight trip that felt longer, yet moved too quick — isn’t that always the way it goes?

Of course, there’s also nothing quite like heading right back into the city and zipping downtown to a buzzed-about concert, right? Mysterious, ethereal Brooklyn-based trio Wet  — past openers for personal favorite CHVRCHES — put on what one can only describe as a vibey, groovy show to rival Beach House. That they filled up the sometimes-cavernous Grand Ballroom at Webster Hall is to be applauded — and it was certainly worth the quick turnaround from train station to concert! Crucially, my tough waxed field jacket and durable suede wingtip boots more than fit in with the eclectic style found at a rock conert. Talk about a heck of an end to a great day, and a great trip!

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A casual-yet-premium Johnnie-O wool overshirt, sport-inspired CLAE x JackThreads sneakers and tapered FOURLAPS sweatpants — the perfect set of Sunday pieces, finished off with a Club Monaco cashmere hat and the Timex x Red Wing Waterbury Chrono.

As with any whirlwind trip, Sunday brought with it the need for some much-needed relaxation time. Luckily, I found my Sunday gear to be on-point all the way through. The team at FOURLAPS makes athletic basics that merge comfort with simple style, and its Rush Joggers are a prime example — perfect for a casual day around Brooklyn, in fact. I paired those up with more easygoing style, starting with the Johnnie-O Pines Shacket, a well-made, soft wool shirt-jacket made from an incredibly soft fabric blend. It matched easily with my Flint and Tinder Marled Long-Sleeve Henley, the perfect seasonal layering piece. To complement a look that was equal parts sporty and stylish, I stuck with my CLAE x JackThreads Strayhorn Mid Sneakers — the grey wool provided a touch of fall-ready textured, and the neat chukka silhouette offered some nice contrast to my tapered sweats. Now, am I saying you should step out for Sunday brunch in sweatpants? Not necessarily. But when the occasion calls for some relaxation and delicious coffee at the likes of Willamsburg shop Homecoming, it’s probably OK.

As with plenty of recent weekend travels, this past weekend brought with it some of my favorite things — a bit of fall travel to an amazing upstate town, a ton of stylish menswear, some delicious gourmet food and a requisite helping of live music. To top it all off with a relaxing Sunday and some Williamsburg exploration was really great — with so many opportunities nearby and just down the road, I’m very thankful to live in New York City. Let’s not forget everyone who reads this blog — thank you! I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I enjoy writing it. I think that’s as fitting a way as possible heading into Thanksgiving. Curious as to what you should wear? Stick around later this week for a Thanksgiving style suggestion.

Oh, and in the meantime? Stay stylish!

-Beau

Huckberry

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Abercrombie & Fitch Wool Shirt

Editor’s note: Expect these posts weekly detailing one standout item coveted by yours truly. Sometimes, these fit within budgetary restrictions and other times, they’re expensive splurges worth saving for. For more Wish List items from Beau, head here, and to see other Style Picks, head here.

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Didn’t think Abercrombie & Fitch could do shirts with serious, heritage-inspired style? Think again. Glasses by Frameri. Waterbury Chrono by Timex x Red Wing Heritage.

First things first — Happy Saturday! What’s on your weekend agenda? Hopefully, some menswear shopping — and of course, a little reading at The Style Guide. Second of all — we’re back at it in the ongoing Style Pick of the Week feature, and fittingly enough, Abercrombie & Fitch is back in the fold. From seasonally appropriate outerwear — like this beautiful Leather Bomber Jacket — to a new-and-improved focus on quality basics like denim, the A&F brand seems to be coming back in a big way. That’s due in large part to the efforts of the brand to focus once again on quality heritage-inspired basics, driven by Sir Aaron Levine (Editor’s not: He’s not actually a knight). But his approach to redefining modern basics with quality materials helped propel Club Monaco ahead, and in short, pieces like the Abercrombie & Fitch Wool Shirt represent his new take on the brand very nicely. A wool shirt, you might ask? What’s wrong with a classic chambray shirt? Well, nothing. But there’s something refreshing about switching up your fall shirting rotation, particularly when it involves reaching for a soft, slim-fitting and easily wearable shirt in a unique wool-cotton blend fabric.  Those details make it a keeper — and the styling potential will have you reaching for it time and again.
Huckberry

What’s not to love about a shirt that evokes the rugged outdoors and classic camp shirts? It features a shirt-jacket design with thicker corozo buttons and a pleasing Heather Oatmeal color — it’s just different enough from your classic white Oxford. Although the shirt is thicker than most, the cotton blend makes it easy to wear this shirt on its own with slim light wash denim for a more casual fall look. Even with the slightly heavier weight, it would also pair up nicely atop a rugged fall henley and your favorite pair of leather boots. I’ve also been pleasantly surprised with its ability to slide nicely underneath a quilted field coat — it’s a foolproof fall layering method. Of course, you can’t go wrong layering it underneath a classic grey crewneck sweater, either. Lest we forget, the Abercrombie & Fitch Wool Shirt  is the type of piece that would also work very nicely underneath an indigo chore coat — although if you’ve been reading this blog regularly, you already know that (Wink, wink). Another bonus to buying this shirt now? It’s quite the steal — you get J. Crew-level quality and a price that’s competitive, but not otherworldly.  Yes indeed, there are many positives to picking up this shirt — from the versatile styling potential to the solid price, it’s a heck of a deal. So, what are you waiting for? Dash off to pick up the Abercrombie & Fitch Wool Shirt , ASAP.

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by Beau H.

Style Suggestion: How to Wear a Chore Coat This Fall

Editor’s note: Peruse the site for more menswear style suggestions.

We talk often at ye olde Style Guide about pulling everything together into one cohesive, stylish outfit filled with the best men’s style essentials. Whether it be heading to the pumpkin patch or stepping out on a weekend coffee date, the chilly climes of fall — or rather, late fall — lend themselves well to layering up with the best menswear gear you’ve got.  And that, my friends, is where the durable, reliable and heritage-inspired chore coat comes into play. Like a lot of menswear floating around out there nowadays, it finds its roots in particularly functional, tough jackets worn decades ago by blue-collar American laborers and workers. It’s a distinctive silhouette that’s retained its workwear edge — think patch front pockets and a longer cut — while getting some very stylish modern upgrades in the process. As a matter of fact, it just might be one of the more reliable pieces of fall outerwear you can snag — alongside the waxed trucker jacket, of course. So, that’s where we find ourselves as we tick through another style suggestion. You’ll find pieces both old and new, familiar and unfamiliar in what just might be the best — yes, the very best — way to wear a chore coat this fall. And for another daily dose of menswear, head to Twitter and Instagram, folks.

The Chore Coat: Apolis Indigo Wool Chore Coat — $278

A beautifully made, durable and stylish wool chore coat.

A beautifully made, durable and stylish wool chore coat.

Now, traditional chore coats were made of fabrics like denim, but the Apolis wool chore coat — a legendary piece among lovers of rugged menswear — is just as suitable of a pick.  You could always go with the brand’s selvage denim chore coat, but the wool option will likely be a bit heartier for chillier temps. The fabric is exclusive to Apolis and the wool fabric is woven exclusively for Apolis in Italy; in short, it doesn’t get much better. With fallen buffalo horn buttons and antique nickel-reinforced rivets, this Apolis chore coat isn’t one to mess with.

The Shirt: Abercrombie & Fitch Wool Shirt — $78

A smartly done piece from Abercrombie & Fitch -- yes, that Abercrombie & Fitch.

A smartly done piece from Abercrombie & Fitch — yes, that Abercrombie & Fitch.

The recent Abercrombie & Fitch revamp has really caught the attention of this writer — and it would appear that menswear designer Aaron Levine, formerly of Club Monaco, is a big reason why this American heritage brand is back in business. Pieces like the Wool Shirt exemplify what the brand was once about, and what the brand hopes to do in the future. It’s a simply executed, smart-looking and seasonally appropriate piece that should offset the indigo chore coat nicely, what with the textured wool fabric and a slim fit ideal for sliding underneath a jacket.
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The Pants: Flint & Tinder 365 Khaki Pant — $98

A five-pocket silhouette meets a performance-ready fabric blend and American-made construction.

A five-pocket silhouette meets a performance-ready fabric blend and American-made construction.

Folks, you just might have met your new favorite pair of khaki pants. Flint & Tinder nails that middle ground between premium pieces and hard-to-obtain pricing quite nicely, and while pieces like its marled henleys are worth checking out, the 365 Khaki Pant should give you all the more reason to look into ’em. It’s a five-pocket pant in a versatile shade of dark khaki, made with 97 percent and an ever-crucial 3 percent Lyrca for stretch. The silhouette means you can team them with the Apolis indigo chore coat on the weekends, or a navy blazer during the week. Not bad for under $100.

The Boots: Eastland 1955 Edition Franconia Boots — $157.50 (Available via East Dane)

Contrast stitching, a moc toe for durability and a fall-ready silhouette.

Contrast stitching, a moc toe for durability and a fall-ready silhouette.

When you’ve got a rugged chore coat and tough five-pocket pants, which way to go with your boot game? Easy. Reach for a boot with moc toe construction, stylish and rugged contrast stitching and a sturdy Vibram lug sole. Eye-catching rawhide laces only add to the rugged vibe of this pair of boots — in addition to this #menswear ensemble, they’re going to be a perfect fit for durable selvedge denim throughout fall and winter. As to the socks? A subtly stylish pair from Style Guide favorites American Trench might set you up just fine.

The Watch: Form-Function-Form Horween Leather Timex Chronograph — $119.98

Does it get any better -- or more affordable -- than a Timex Weekender on a Horween leather strap? Not really.

Does it get any better — or more affordable — than a Timex Weekender on a Horween leather strap? Not really.

I first stumbled onto Form-Function-Form via my buddy Joe’s fantastic menswear site, Dappered. The brand has given new meaning to finely made watch straps, and the fact that they’re sold by the great Huckberry team is as good an indication of that approach as any. The adjustable length button-stud band is made from beautiful Horween leather for a suitably rugged contrast to the rich indigo chore coat and dark khaki pants. And the watch? Well, it’s a reliable, durable Timex Weekender with chronograph functionality. Snag this watch before it’s too late, yeah?

The Belt: Filson Bridle Leather Belt — $75 (Available via East Dane)

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If we’re sticking with rugged menswear throughout this outfit, why not grab a tough-as-nails belt that can keep up? Filson makes nothing but the highest-quality goods that money can buy, and that extends through from its coveted bags all the way down to durable — yet smaller pieces — like bridle leather belts. There’s no question that this belt fits right in with the tough vibes of this ensemble. The fact that you’ll have it forever is just another bonus.

The Hat: Club Monaco Kensington Cashmere Hat — $99 (Available via East Dane)

A rather luxurious upgrade to the standard winter hat.

A rather luxurious upgrade to the standard winter hat.

When chilly fall weather hits, you could reach for a plain, average hat — or you could reach for a cashmere Club Monaco hat. Now, it’s certainly pricey, and perhaps you’ve got a winter hat that you’ve worn through the years, but this hat is subtle, refined and very comfortable. They’re certainly aren’t a lot of cashmere stocking caps on the market, so it should be easy to hang onto this one — right?

Just as there’s something to be said for picking up affordable essentials — from style upgrades to everyday purchases — there’s something to be said for investing in the best … when you can, that is. An indigo wool chore coat from the likes of Apolis is about as durable and fall-ready as it gets, with the potential to break in over time and tell some nice stories. And when teamed with a slim wool shirt from a heritage sportswear brand like Abercrombie & Fitch, you’re looking at a great one-two punch. Plus, made-in-America pants and reliable moc toe boots fit right in with the rugged vibes of fall, as does a beautiful Horween leather watch. On the accessories front, a cashmere hat is a luxurious upgrade to standard winter accessories. So, there you go. How would you wear a chore coat this fall? Any thoughts on the Apolis indigo wool chore coat? Chime in on Facebook, and we’ll see you for our weekly Friday Read.

-Beau
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by Beau H.

#OOTD: How to Dress for A Rock Concert

Editor’s note: You’ve surely seen this hashtag lots of different places, including on Instagram. But how does that carry over to real life? The #OOTD will take one great item and put together a versatile, stylish outfit around it. Look for past features here.

Chances are, we’ve all got certain style scenarios throughout the week we have to tackle — be it dressing for a laidback office or a laidback summer weekend, there’s a multitude of conundrums (and opportunities!) to navigate in any given week. If you enjoy live music — as I very much do — you might also find yourself attending a show or two … or three. Heck, from the 2016 Panorama music festival to Governors Ball to an upstate trip to see Lucius, I love it all, and I get out and about to shows quite a bit. If you read this blog, you certainly know that; maybe you’ve even tackled a similar scenario, such as how to dress for a summer music festival. However, non-festival settings are a different animal entirely. We’re usually talking an indoor venue, a more compact crowd, and possibly time spent waiting in line outside. So, what are you going to wear? And namely, what’s a combination that might hold up alright at the office and then heading to the show itself? This is one of the essential questions in life (wink, wink) and it’s the one we’re going to answer below. As yours truly likes to drive home, looking for ways to improve — and maintain — your style comes down to always seizing the chance to do a little bit extra when it comes to getting dressed. That’s where style upgrades come into play, even off the clock. The below outfit certainly has a few of those. If you want to keep up with what I’m wearing at my next show (obviously), head to Instagram. To check out my thoughts on music & other musings, check out my non-menswear Twitter — it exists! — right here.

Ready for the front row -- a chambray shirt, slim black denim and Chelsea boots are about as concert-ready as it gets.

Ready for the front row — a chambray shirt, slim black denim and Chelsea boots are about as concert-ready as it gets.

The Jacket: Abercrombie & Fitch M-65 Military Jacket, $150 –The (somewhat) new and very improved Abercrombie & Fitch is keeping that roll going into the fall season with pieces like this timeless, sharp and versatile field jacket. It works just as well over a knit tie with a blue Oxford as it does with this outfit’s other pieces.

The Shirt: Buck Mason Short-Sleeve Chambray Shirt, $108 — If you’ve kept your eyes peeled, you’ve seen this Buck Mason short-sleeve chambray shirt as part of this site’s Style Pick of the Week series. It’s an essential done the right way, and the short sleeves will keep you cooler even underneath the jacket.

The Denim: Levi’s 505C Slim-Fit Jeans in DeeDee Wash, $98 — Is it cliché to wear black jeans to a rock concert? Not when that pair of denim is inspired by an actual archival style worn by rockers like the Ramones. (Read more by yours truly at The Manual).

The Boots: Soul36 Fairmont Chelsea Boots in Taupe, $249 — Because no trip to a concert is complete with rock-ready footwear, suede Chelsea boots that can handle a bit of a beating are the exact way to go.

The Socks: Pair of Thieves Okapi Socks, $10  — When your outfit relies on lots of shades of blue (plus some black and tan), a vibrant shot of red is never a bad thing. The price on these Pair of Thieves socks simply can’t be beat.

The Belt: Tanner Goods Classic Belt in Hickory, $99.98 — An average belt just won’t do here — no, your belt should be one that works at the office and at a show, and a refined-yet-rugged Tanner Goods belt is neither too dressy or dressed-down.
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The Watch: AVI-8 Hawker Hunter Watch, $270 — Seeing as we’re pushing for an outfit that’s equal parts rugged, tough and office-ready, this aviation-inspired timepiece — featuring a beefy 45mm case diameter and smart dial design — is ideal.

The Wallet: Andar Wallets Scout Wallet, $22 — Before we get into what makes this wallet so great, know that you can get 10 percent off your purchase with the code ‘STYLEGUIDE’ — now, why should do that? This wallet is slim enough to fit into the front pocket of that denim, functional enough to hold a small amount of cash and a few essential cards, and memorable enough in design that you won’t leave it behind at the bar.

As you can see in the #OOTD above, the small style details matter, from the cut of your shirt to the color of your socks — and they can be merged into one functional outfit that’s fit for something as unique as a rock concert. Those suede Chelsea boots that you might pair with a business-casual look will fit right in as you jockey for a front-row spot (or a spot at the bar). Pieces like a navy military jacket and a chambray shirt are multi-season essentials that work particularly well for transitioning from location to location — indoors or outdoors. The military jacket is rugged yet sharp when paired up with that crisp blue short-sleeve chambray shirt. And while black denim might feel a touch rebellious, a clean wash in a dark color is certainly as concert-ready  as durable pair of inky blue denim. Lastly, that durable watch and slim wallet are nice additions to your daily haul any day of the week. If you have suggestions or thoughts on what you’re wearing to your next show, write me a note on Twitter (my #menswear one, if you prefer).

Stay stylish and snap a concert video for me,

-Beau

by Beau H.

Online Shopping Picks: The Best Men’s Pocket Tees

Just but one example of how to wear a stylish pocket tee. The Tee Shirt in Heather Grey by Richer Poorer. Stringer Dune Shorts and Flat Wool Cap by Bridge & Burn. Cooper Boat Shoes by Jack Erwin. Watebury Chrono from the Timex x Red Wing collab. Maximus Sunglasses by Sunday Somewhere.

Just but one example of how to wear a stylish pocket tee. The Tee Shirt in Heather Grey by Richer Poorer. Stringer Dune Shorts and Flat Wool Cap by Bridge & Burn. Cooper Boat Shoes by Jack Erwin. Watebury Chrono from the Timex x Red Wing collab. Maximus Sunglasses by Sunday Somewhere.

The small details that can make or break an outfit are a big focus at the ol’ Style Guide. Everything from the break of your pants to the cut of your slim polo to the quality of the buttons on your favorite classic Oxford should be up for consideration. And it’s with that in mind that we’re talking about (all together now) the style upgrade (Ding, ding!) that comes with one of the best men’s pocket T-shirts seen below. What’s the big deal about a pocket T-shirt? And why should you grab one (or two, or three) the next time you want to hit ‘Refresh’ in your closet? For one, it’s got more visual interest and styling potential than a basic tee – the chest pocket and the fact that texture is a big part of a great pocket T-shirt speak to that. And two: It can be worn on its own, it can be slipped on underneath a chambray shirt in the spring, or layered up under your favorite crewneck sweater in the fall or winter. For one T-shirt, that’s a lot of versatility. So ready your mouse, pull up a chair and read away. To see how to style a pocket T-shirt, check out yours truly on Instagram or Twitter, too.

#1. Richer Poorer The Tee Shirt in Heather Grey — $54 (Two-pack)

A soft, slim-fitting and easily wearable pocket tee.

A soft, slim-fitting and easily wearable pocket tee.

For a company that started out making socks, Richer Poorer has done an admirable job expanding its line of basics step-by-step. As of late last year, that includes a selection of easily wearable, slim-fitting and practically essential pocket tees in a range of versatile colors that runs the gamut from a crisp Black to a pleasing off-white Natural shade. The Heather Grey color shown here — and as I wore on a Memorial Day trip upstate — might just be the best of the bunch, with soft fabric and enough visual interest to be worn under an unstructured blazer in the summer  (not to mention a shawl-collar cardigan in the fall and winter).

#2. Mack Weldon Pima Crew Neck in Indigo Heather — $34

Well-fitting basics are what Mack Weldon does, and this Indigo Heather tee is no exception.

Well-fitting basics are what Mack Weldon does, and this Indigo Heather tee is no exception.

For a company that makes basics that are sometimes thought of as simple, Mack Weldon sure does things the right way. Everything from the brand’s 18-Hour Jersey Trunks to its boxers are made with quality, comfort and style in mind. Those are underrated qualities when it comes to stylish basics, but the brand’s got it on lock. Mack Weldon is a Style Guide favorite for that very reason, and this pocket tee – in a great shade of heightened indigo – is just the ticket for wearing with your favorite khaki blazer in warm weather, or a washed crewneck sweater when the weather gets breezy. The price ain’t half-bad, either.

#3. Buck Mason Steel Slub Pocket Tee — $32

Visual touches like a rounded hem and a trusty pocket set this T-shirt apart.

Visual touches like a rounded hem and a trusty pocket set this T-shirt apart.

If you’re not hip to what Buck Mason’s doing yet, I’d suggest you acquaint yourself with our latest Style Guide Q&A, first. All good? Great – let’s get down to business. The brand makes a mean pocket tee, crafted with rugged-refined fabric and pleasing design details like a rounded hem. The Steel color shown here is just different enough from a typical light grey, and that difference adds a bit of an edge – in this case, it’s the type pocket tee to wear with off-white chinos and tan suede chukkas for a slightly monochromatic look. And, the quality of this T-shirt is such that it can be worn under a lightweight navy blazer or a chunkier cable crewneck sweater.

In a neutral color like black or navy, you've got all sorts of styling options.

In a neutral color like navy, you’ve got all sorts of styling options.

When is a basic T-shirt more than a basic T-shirt? When it’s made with soft, slubby fabric right in America, that’s when. Add in the fact that this particular Steven Alan T-shirt plays well with other refined, minimal staples from the brand, and you’ve got a pocket T-shirt worth the investment. In this instance, you should look to pair the navy color with everything from the brand’s slim black denim for a night out, to a pair of crisp light grey trousers alongside an olive blazer (see how we’re really working that neutral color angle?). Of course, you can easily wear it sans jacket with your favorite pair of chino shorts the rest of the summer.

#5. Abercrombie & Fitch Striped Pocket Tee — $20

Still thinking of the old Abercrombie & Fitch? Think again, my friends.

Still thinking of the old Abercrombie & Fitch? Think again, my friends.

Since when did Abercrombie & Fitch become so stylish? Well, the short answer is that the brand’s always had rugged heritage and solid knitwear, yet the overall line required a bit of … freshening up, if you will. Design head Aaron Levine – of Club Monaco fame – has so far upgraded the brand’s look and feel admirably, and that means pieces like this striped pocket T-shirt work well alongside new classics, such as this stellar field coat. The fit of this T-shirt is slim, the stripes add that crucial visual interest, and there’s not a logo in sight. Buy a couple of these for your T-shirt drawer — or save the extra cash for whatever the brand dreams up next.

Still think a pocket tee is something to put aside in your search for a stylish wardrobe? If you’ve got your basic #menswear essentials covered, think again. Particularly if you like stocking up on new items every now and again, it’s a style you can and should reach for consistently in months both warm and cold. Whether grab a slim Todd Snyder pocket T-shirt or one of the picks above, there’s no doubt that even the smallest of details – like the rounded hem on that Buck Mason pocket tee – can elevate the humble pocket tee from just another T-shirt to something that can be a focal point of your outfit. Tuck it in a bit, roll up the sleeves, toss it on under a denim jacket or go clean-cut with a breezy linen blazer – there’s not really a way these stylish pocket T-shirts can’t be worn.

Got questions on these tees? Think I missed one? Chime in on Twitter to get this #menswear feud going (wink, wink).

Circle back on Friday for our weekly menswear recap – we’ll see you then,

-Beau

Florsheim

by Beau H.

#OOTD: Dressing for a Casual Spring Workday

Editor’s note: You’ve surely seen this hashtag lots of different places, including on Instagram. But how does that carry over to real life? The #OOTD series will take one great item and put together a versatile, stylish outfit around it. Look for past features here.

As we’ve talked about often on The Style Guide, great style doesn’t always have to mean suiting up — contrary to what it might seem out there in #menswear world. Sure, it’s absolutely fun (let alone necessary) to dress up every now and then — particularly for big occasions — but in some workplaces or on particular days, it’s just not all that functional or comfortable. That doesn’t mean principles of style (like fit, sharp colors and seasonal layering) can’t be put to just as good of use in a more casual outfit — like the #OOTD you see below. That’s particularly the case with a lightweight jacket that can take the place of your favorite blazer. So today, we’re talking transitional layers, slim chinos and some pieces that should hopefully stand out seamlessly at work and on the weekends alike. Have any scenarios you’d like covered in the #OOTD series? Let me know on Facebook!

A versatile outfit suited for the workday or the weekend -- that's the goal, right?

A versatile outfit suited for the workday or the weekend — that’s the goal, right?

The Jacket: Bridge & Burn Hayden Gray Jacket, $188 — Your average H&M windbreaker, this is not. Why is it worth it to pay more for a made-in-America spring jacket? Because in a neutral color, you can wear this guy in plenty of other outfits.

The Polo: Grayers Slub Nep Jersey Polo, $59.50 — Look to Grayers for an updated take on the classic navy polo — the slub texture of this shirt makes it the ideal switch-up from a plain pique number.

The Chinos: Abercrombie & Fitch Skinny Chinos, $68 — More Abercrombie & Fitch? Oh, yes. These skinny chinos in a terrific washed olive colorway are perfecting for pairing alongside understated neutrals like navy & grey.

The Shoes: Florsheim Casey Wingtip, $110 — These are a great casual wingtip thanks to the contrast stitching and ever-so-slightly roughed-up leather. Classic white sneakers could work here, too.

The Belt: J. Crew Factory Braided Leather Belt, $20.50 — If ever there was a time to pair a braided belt with wingtips, this is it. The casual texture and color should match up quite well with those shoes — the colors aren’t an exact match, but let’s overthink this.

The Socks: J. Crew Factory No-Show Loafer Socks, $10 — Yes, we’re going with the sockless look here. Some aren’t partial to this look, but since these wingtips shouldn’t be too hard to break in, it should work just fine. If that’s too much, you could always grab some cream-and-black socks for a neutral look.

The Watch: Invicta Pro Diver 8926, $79.99 — Is there a better price for a fairly tough, versatile stainless steel dive watch? It’s tough to beat, that’s for sure.

The above #OOTD plays off some unique color combos, like navy and olive, and brings it all together with a durable, investment-worthy jacket and other classic pieces. A stainless steel diver for under $100 is tough to find, and snagging a pair of casual-yet-sharp wingtips is also something that can be pretty difficult to do. Suffice to say, this outfit is a definite upgrade from the more standard khakis-and-a-navy-polo look (although that can be done well in some cases). Try it out the next time you face a Casual Friday dilemma.

What’s your take on the above ensemble? How would you make it your own?
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by Beau H.

Online Shopping Picks: Best Men’s Spring Jackets

Editor’s note: For a full host of seasonal shopping picks, click here.

Here’s a sneak peek for you at what’s coming this week on The Style Guide — shopping picks, and more shopping picks! With the long-awaited transition to spring currently ongoing all around (hopefully), there’s plenty of shopping to be done if you need to update your wardrobe. I know I’ve certainly been looking to cross some items off my spring style wish list. And while sometimes you can take a look at what you have in your wardrobe and easily assemble a sharp, #OOTD, sometimes you still need a little extra … something. In this case, that something is a great spring jacket, critical for navigating the sometimes quickly changing weather and temperatures of this time of year. After all, it’s not quite warm enough to go forth in a spring sweater  — which we’ll cover Wednesday — yet that winter coat is long gone. The below picks aim to get y’all outfitted at a variety of price points and styles, although versatility and maximum usability is critical in terms of outerwear. Keep in mind that we’re not getting crazy technical here, so if that’s your game … maybe give it a read anyways? And if you have any picks you think I missed, head on over to The Style Guide’s Facebook page and let me know.

#1. Abercrombie & Fitch Genuine Suede Bomber — $600

Abercrombie & Fitch -- not what you'd expected, right? A stunning new spring offering.

Abercrombie & Fitch — not what you’d expected, right? A stunning new spring offering.

If you’re not hip to the scene yet, Abercrombie & Fitch is back in a big way this spring thanks to the already-hyped efforts of former Club Monaco head of menswear Aaron Levine. Its knitwear looks to be in great shape (particularly this indigo popover), and solid, rugged pieces like the above Genuine Suede Jacket are doing lots to sway perception of the brand. $600 might certainly seem like a lot of cash to throw down if you haven’t shopped at A&F in years, but know that this stunning jacket was crafted in partnership with the outerwear experts at Golden Bear.  Worth a second look, huh?

#2. H&M Cotton Shirt Jacket — $34.99

The classic-yet-modern styling potential one expects from David Beckham's H&M partnership -- at a very low price.

The classic-yet-modern styling potential one expects from David Beckham’s H&M partnership — at a very low price.

On the opposite end of the spectrum sits H&M with this dark blue Cotton Shirt Jacket from its Modern Essentials collection (well-done, Mr. Beckham). Granted, the quality of the brand can sometimes be suspect, but collections done in partnership with the soccer legend do get quite a few things right in terms of nailing continental, modern style. This shirt jacket is completely different in style than the above suede bomber, but it would function as a nice weekend layering piece over a long-sleeve tee, and you could even rock it on its own for a casual Friday.

#3. Bridge & Burn Hayden Linen Jacket — $188

Lightweight and highly wearable in several situations.

Lightweight and highly wearable in several situations.

There seems to be two ways one can go when selecting outerwear — either slightly less expensive and less versatile, or pricier and more versatile & durable. The Bridge & Burn Hayden Linen Jacket certainly echoes that last one — it’s a nice and lightweight cotton-linen blend in a neutral grey colorway, and it’s designed in the U.S. from a brand that knows how to craft sustainable apparel and outerwear. It should function perfectly over a lightweight cashmere sweater and a simple tee, and you could even sub this jacket in for your more typical khaki blazer.

#4. Todd Snyder Chelsea Varsity Bomber Jacket — $198

An offering that's equal parts city and sport-inspired from Todd Snyder.

An offering that’s equal parts city and sport-inspired from Todd Snyder.

No matter the season, Todd Snyder always seems to deliver some excellent style staples — be it his take on classic white P.F. Flyers sneakers or athletic-inspired outerwear, like the Chelsea Varsity Bomber Jacket from this season’s collaboration with Champion. It certainly has  a slightly edgy, noir-ish style compared to some of the other pieces on this list, but sometimes, sleek black outerwear isn’t a bad thing. The cotton body should be lightweight and comfortable for layering over a classic Oxford shirt, and the leather detailing at the shoulders adds a bit of visual interest. While this jacket is a tad pricey, it’s certainly not as expensive as some of the brand’s other Spring 2016 offerings.

#5. Grayers Reston Quilted Jacket — $165

A hybrid jacket that's ideal for the shifting temps of spring.

A hybrid jacket that’s ideal for the shifting temps of spring.

This jacket was first seen on this blog’s Spring Style Wish List, and the Reston Quilted Jacket is popping back up here for good reason — it’s a versatile piece that takes a mixed approach to seasonal outerwear. That is to say, it combines the silhouette and stand-up collar of a field coat with a quilted exterior, plus the color and relatively slim fit of a navy blazer. That means you can wear it like both a jacket and …well, a blazer. If you’re looking for ways to style it, look toward simple staples like slim stone chinos (say all that five times fast) or lightwash jeans — the color contrast definitely works.

When shopping around (er, I mean researching) for this post, a few brands kept popping up — and if you’re looking to continue your search, I’d say you might do well to supplement the above picks by swinging through Bonobos, who stocks a variety of seasonally appropriate outerwear and unique styles. If your budget is substantially higher, keep in mind that classic, Americana-focused retailers like Billy Reid are also crafting lovely outerwear options. Whether you’ve got money to burn or not so much cash on-hand, scoping out a jacket that’s versatile and appropriate for your lifestyle is going to be goal numero uno — so, pretty important. If there are any brands you think got lost in the shuffle, hit me up on Twitter! In the meantime, happy shopping.