Tag / affordable men’s style

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: The Best Men’s Chukka Boots, MZ Skincare and the Best Men’s Chinos

It’s Friday — let’s talk shop! If I were you, I’d be looking forward to knocking back a cold one this weekend — it’s still a full-on heat wave out there, after all! Oh, and if you’re looking for a new brew to try — or at least, new beer-related gear to wear — you’d do very well to check out our latest edition of The List. It spotlights everything from the much-coveted Huckberry x Mikkeller Collection (featuring plenty of craft beer-themed garb!) to the excellent Bone Button Western Shirt from Flint and Tinder. Wearing your new favorite shirt while sipping on a new favorite beer? That’s as good as it gets. What’s on your agenda this weekend? I’m back in Brooklyn following two wonderful, lovely weekends on the road back in Pure Michigan (as you can perhaps tell by my Instagram account!). I took the chance to explore Ann Arbor last weekend, stopping at the terrific Shinola store downtown and enjoying some delicious pizza at the terrific Jolly Pumpkin Cafe and Brewery — I had the Bam Biere, a refreshing Sour Farmhouse Ale made with that signature Jolly Pumpkin touch. Both of those spots are surely worth a visit if you find yourself in the area! Which reminds me … if you’ve got a brewpub visit of your own coming this weekend, you’ll want to outfit yourself accordingly. Check out this rugged, casual #OOTD to start, then read on for a few shopping suggestions — enjoy yourself out there!

  • With their timeless silhouette and excellent durability, chukka boots are a style that’s easy to wear with practically, well, anything. I like to wear my classic suede chukka boots with rugged pieces like a slub tee and black denim, or else with an easygoing navy blazer and a light blue Oxford. How about you? Oh, and as to which ones you should be buying — read my picks for the best men’s chukka boots via The Manual!
  • I’m always on the lookout for subtle grooming upgrades that can make a big difference in terms of your daily look. I’ve lately added another product to my nightly routine, one I think you’d do well to pick up for yourself: The Hydra-Bright Golden Eye Treatment Mask from MZ Skin. They feature Nano Gold particles and are designed to minimize puffiness and fine lines — and that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Simply put them under your eyes for 15 minutes. I can’t recommend ’em enough.

In the way of other menswear writing pursuits, I also rounded up some of the best men’s chinos to buy now for GearMoose — I’d reckon you’ll recognize one, or two, or a heck of a lot more brands on that list.

We’re going to close up shop on today’s Friday Read — thanks for stopping by, and be sure to come back for tomorrow’s Style Pick of the Week!

Still on the hunt for men’s style essentials? Check out our series The List, covering some of the best men’s gear to buy now — from shirting to home goods to stylish boots & sneakers. 

by Beau H.

The List: Your Menswear Wardrobe Needs These Upgrades to Close Out Summer

Read on for the inside scoop on why exactly we’re featuring this brew today.

First things first: As we move into August, we’re going to keep emphasizing the sort of “any-season” men’s style essentials that’ll put in just as much work now as they will come September and October. That goes, of course, for a great pint of beer — that’s never out of season. Hence, the new Huckberry x Mikkeller collaboration highlighted above and, well, down below. Let’s get to the best menswear essentials out there — bottoms up.

Flint and Tinder Bone Button Western Shirt — $128
Flint and Tinder

The right type of shirt to wear in August and through to September and October.

The fine folks at Flint and Tinder continue to deliver the goods in terms of standout style. This rugged, edgy and versatile Bone Button Western Shirt is going to take you through August into September with ease.
Huckberry x Mikeller Blue Hour — $15/4-Pack

A heck of a beer collaboration — plus, a bunch of other stylish gear.

Here’s the brew you first saw at the top of the page — but there’s a catch. This amazing-looking Huckberry x Mikeller Blue Hour Gose is only available in California … BUT, the rest of the Huckberry x Mikeller Collection, including stylish koozies and art, can be had via Huckberry NOW.
Timex MK1 Aluminum Chronograph Watch — $99

Durable, slightly rugged and effortlessly casual. Nice work, Timex.

A tough NATO strap watch is the versatile, stylish casual timepiece you need now — wear it with a slub white tee and navy chino shorts, then keep it on your wrist to team with indigo denim and a grey crewneck sweater later this year.
Wolverine 1000 Mile 1940 Boots — $415

Tough, durable leather boots, complete with the proper gear to care for ’em.

You get a heck of a lot of bang for your buck when you buy this particular pair of Wolverine 1000 Mile 1940 Boots, including leather creme and conditioner, plus the requisite shoe care gear. Certainly, these are a pair of stylish leather boots to buy now and wear all through fall.
Faherty Brand Short-Sleeve Stitch Stripe Henley — $98

The type of henley that looks great paired with chinos and sneakers right now.

If you follow me on Instagram, you’ve seen this rugged indigo henley in action. From the pleasing stripe pattern to the rich indigo color, it’s a no-brainer to wear on its own this August, then layer up with come fall.
Wild Standard Flags — Prices Vary

Just one of the many neat options from Wild Standard — cool-looking and essential to upgrading your space.

Looking for a stylish home decor upgrade that can inject even a small space with some hometown love and personality? Wild Standard is the place to go, with cool and rugged-looking flags.
CIVIC Merino Socks — $22.50

Travel-friendly socks that look great with plenty of casual or more refined looks.

From the team behind Taylor Stitch comes CIVIC, a line of smart, subtly stylish & well-designed menswear — like the CIVIC Merino Socks.
Flint and Tinder Crossback Work Shirt in Denim Indigo — $138

A durable indigo denim work shirt, perfect for casual outings or, y’know, doing actual work outdoors.

Another day, another edition of The List, and another excellent-looking indigo denim work shirt from Flint and Tinder. Wear this with a heather grey tee on breezy August nights, then keep it handy for October yard work.
Mollusk Surf Shop Faded Navy Chinos — $98

Can’t beat classic navy chinos in a tailored fit.

Slim navy chinos, particularly the ones shown from Mollusk Surf Shop, are going to be a go-to now with a white Oxford and suede chukka boots, and then they’re going to work equally well with a grey cardigan later this year.
Tracksmith Horizon Tee — $42

A retro-inspired tee with modern running performance built in.

For those who value looking stylish on morning or evening runs, the Tracksmith Horizon Tee is for you. Just the right blend of retro style and modern performance.
So, my dear friends — which of these menswear essentials do you like the best? I’d personally love to get my hands on anything from the Huckberry x Mikeller Collection — especially that much-coveted beer!
Let me know via The Style Guide Facebook page. Thanks for reading!
by Beau H.

The Friday Read: Best Made Co., Faherty x Huckberry and Mo Pop Festival

As we close out another long, surprisingly busy summer week here at The Style Guide, I’m looking back on an amazing Michigan weekend at the excellent Mo Pop Festival … and I’m looking forward to another summer weekend back in the Mitten starting today! But about last weekend (which you surely saw if you follow me on Instagram!). I loved heading into Royal Oak — and staying at the chic Hotel Royal Oak, as it were — before heading to take in some festival action at West Riverfront Park. Heat and dry conditions aside, it was an amazing day at the festival, enjoying the blissful indie rock of Alvvays, the high-energy hip-hop of Vince Staples and the transformative power of Justin Vernon’s Bon Iver to close out the night — a highlight! Throughout the day, I enjoyed sipping on a special Mo Pop Golden Ale from Griffin Claw Brewing! Throw in some local Detroit food — including outstanding sandwiches from Hero or Villain — alongside some time spent with great friends, and you’ve got yourself an amazing weekend! I think we’ll definitely be back at Mo Pop next year.

I also enjoyed shopping around lovely Royal Oak, including a stop by the eclectic Rail & Anchor , which features everything from neat keychains to coffee mugs to local grooming products, all with a decidedly stylish and rustic vibe. With that being said, I’m looking forward to another amazing, enjoyable weekend back in my home state in the days to come — follow along on Instagram for more from my neck of the woods! Oh, and in the meantime, busy yourself with reading the below Friday Read or shopping for some menswear essentials. Cheers!

  • Looking for the perfect pair of work shorts, or perhaps the perfect shirt to take you through early August and on into fall? Then, my friends, you’re looking for Best Made Co. You can — and should! — read more about the brand via my latest feature for The Manual!
  • You know when you find a menswear collaboration you absolutely love, and simply can’t live without? That’s what got me about the Faherty x Huckberry Sequoia Sunset Collection, a new mini-capsule collection from my favorite E-commerce retailer that features everything from a stylish pocket tee to a classic pair of boardshorts. Read more at GearMoose!
  • Speaking of must-have menswear for the season, did you catch this week’s post covering the Taylor Stitch Point Shirt? It’s a seasonal essential that can be worn stylishly right now with rolled light wash denim and classic suede chukkas, and the Point Shirt from Taylor Stitch will easily layer over a thermal shirt, black jeans and tough leather boots come early fall.
  • One last time on the shopping front here, folks — if it’s casual weekend style you seek, I can’t recommend a stylish graphic tee enough. As in, the Huckberry Artist Series Tee as seen in last week’s Style Pick of the Week. Wear it with slim chinos, white canvas sneakers and a rugged denim jacket to grab some brews this weekend.

So, without further ado … that’s this week’s Friday Read! If you’ve got questions on all things menswear or just want to chat about craft beer or music, hit me up on Twitter and let’s keep this party rolling.

Thanks for reading!

by Beau H.

The List: Enjoy August with the Best New Menswear to Buy Now

The J. Stark Prospect Briefcase is but one of the versatile essentials you should shop now.

See the J. Stark Prospect Briefcase above? It’s exhibit A in today’s post — everyday essentials to carry you through the month(s) ahead. August is an interesting time in terms of the menswear calendar. If you’re anything like me, you’ve got your eye on men’s style essentials to buy for fall, yet the temperatures outside might still read summer. What’a guy to do in that case? In the opinion of your humble editor, that means you should buy pieces that’ll work both in August and in September, or October, or November … and beyond. Like the Prospect Briefcase. So, let’s shop this week’s edition of The List, shall we?

Taylor Stitch Slim Chinos in Navy — $98

Classic navy chinos, done the Taylor Stitch way.

Every guy — you and me, and even that guy over there — can make use of classic navy chinos, no matter the season. Wear the Taylor Stitch Slim Chinos now with a charcoal Oxford shirt and stylish brown leather dress shoes.
GrowlerWerks Black Matte uKeg — $169

A uniquely stylish and great-looking growler for your home bar.

For when you’d prefer your beer is served in a manner that’s as stylish as your favorite pair of leather boots, there’s the handsomely appointed GrowlerWerks Black Matte uKeg.
Viberg Hiker Boots — $710

Astoundingly beautiful and well-made boots from Viberg.

The folks at Viberg are masters at making rugged leather boots — with a hefty price tag — that last and last, and look great while doing it. The Viberg Hiker Boots are certainly worthy of your hard-earned cash.
Bulletprufe Tobacco Brown Denim — $98

Unique denim in a rich multi-season color.

They’ve got a unique name (Bulletprufe??), a cool color and the versatility to be worn with everything from a white Oxford to a navy henley. The Bulletprufe Tobacco Brown Denim deserve to be worn both now and on into fall.
Timex Archive Waterbury United Watch — $120

A casual watch with a textured strap — made to work in August and into fall.

Is it possible to find a watch that works stylistically both in the summer and the fall? Yes, sir. The Timex Archive Waterbury United Watch, with a stone-washed cotton strap and easy-to-wear design, is that watch.
J. Stark Prospect Briefcase — $295

A durable and rugged everyday brief, made to work in every season — but especially right now.

As you’ve seen at the top of the page, the J. Stark Prospect Briefcase has exactly the right type of all-season style and dependability that you need — it’s a piece that’s going to work as handsomely this month as it will later this fall.
Taylor Stitch Legend Sunglasses — $175

The right blend of modern and classic, all from Taylor Stitch.

Can Taylor Stitch make sunglasses? They sure can. The Taylor Stitch Legend Sunglasses are exactly what you’d expect from these guys — just unique enough to stand out from the pack, blending modern and retro design. They’re quite possibly the perfect pair of sunglasses to buy now … and then wear on sunny fall days.
ArmorLux Short-Sleeve Breton Shirt — $55

A pure and simple, utterly classic tee to wear all the time.

What’s the one type of stylish T-shirt you can wear now? And then keep handy to layer up underneath a grey crewneck sweater on a chilly fall day? The ArmorLux Breton Shirt, of course.
Blind Barber 30 Proof Styling Cream — $18

A quality styling cream to keep your new haircut in place.

For under $20, you get a terrific Blind Barber styling cream that’s going to make your summer ‘do last well into fall.
Form-Function-Form Horween Leather Weekender — $98

Cool. durable and classic – – the perfect watch to buy right now, and then wear for months to come.

Another Timex? Absolutely. If you follow me on Instagram, you’re likely aware of how much I love my Form-Function-Form Weekender. This timepiece is no different. It’s a durable, rugged & stylish casual watch to buy now, my friends.
So, which of the above picks do you like — or love — the most? For me, it’s got to be the dependable style and rugged nature of the  J. Stark Prospect Briefcase — a piece to buy now, and then carry for months and months to come. Happy shopping out there, and feel free to catch up with me on Twitter if you like what you’ve read.
by Beau H.

#OOTD: How to Wear Your New Favorite Denim Jacket

We always try to cover a lot of ground when it comes to our #OOTD series, from how to wear boots during the summer to the best way to style your chambray shirt. It all comes down to, as always, taking your favorite pieces and mixing up the formula, the fit and the styling. Such is the case with today’s featured #OOTD, my friends. It starts with a tried-and-true menswear essential — the rugged denim jacket — and features unique, summer-friendly styling touches, like the Taylor Stitch Hawthorne Shirt and go-anywhere classic suede chukka boots. These are items that work well on their own, and yet look even better blended into one ensemble. The resulting look is a different way to wear a piece (the stylish denim jacket) that you know and love. Between the laidback trousers and a pair of retro-inspired sunglasses, you’ve got an outfit that screams casual versatility, from brunch to the market to your favorite coffee shop. If you really want to beat the heat? Ditch the rugged denim jacket and wear the Taylor Stitch Hawthorne Shirt on its own — I’ll let you be the judge of how you ultimately want to make this #OOTD work for you, though.

Your favorite denim jacket, worn in an unexpected way.

  • Flint and Tinder Denim Trucker Jacket, $168 — Here’s the trusty, stylish denim jacket we mentioned earlier. The centerpiece of this outfit, the solid fit and pleasing mid-wash make it a winning summer layer.
  • The Shirt: Taylor Stitch Hawthorne Shirt, $125 — Beat the hot weather with the Hawthorne Shirt from Taylor Stitch, complete with short sleeves (to rid yourself of excess heat) and a seriously cool pattern.
  • The Pants: Life/After/Denim Harbor Pants, $148 — One way to stay casual and breezy this summer? The Harbor Pants from Life/After/Denim, featuring a tapered fit, a cotton-linen blend & a drawstring waist.
  • The Boots: Astorflex Greenflex Boots in Dark Khaki, $145 — We talked a couple weeks ago about how to wear boots this summer, and if you want to dip your toe in those waters, the Astorflex Greenflex are a great way to start. Fear not: These classic chukka boots are relatively light and very easy to wear.
  • The Socks: American Trench Mil-Spec Sport Socks, $12.50 — I’m an advocate of investing in classic items you love to wear — and that’s why I love the classic style and comfort of the Mil-Spec Sport Socks. With a no-fuss design & an array of color options, they’re the perfect complement to this #OOTD.
  • The Watch: Form-Function-Form Horween Leather Weekender, $98 — Reach for a rugged, stylish casual watch to balance out the go-anywhere nature of this outfit. The Horween Leather Weekender from Timex checks all the right boxes.
  • The Sunglasses: Taylor Stitch Legend Sunglasses, $175 — Sure, you could reach for classic Aviator sunglasses with this ensemble, but the Taylor Stitch Legend Sunglasses are much more visually interesting and just … cool.
  • The Grooming Essential: Blind Barber 30 Proof Styling Cream, $18 — I love me a vintage-inspired ballcap as much as the next guy, but the Blind Barber 30 Proof Styling Cream will give your ‘do and your look a little something extra.

So, what exactly makes this outfit different from another summer #OOTD? Well, if you start with a timeless outer layer (in this case, the rugged denim jacket from Flint and Tinder), you can mix and match as you please. You’re ready for a breezy summer night or an in-between summer day in equal measure, especially when you pair the Flint and Tinder Denim Trucker Jacket with the Taylor Stitch Hawthorne Shirt for versatile layering. Easygoing pieces like the Harbor Pants from Life/After/Denim drive home the breathable, cool nature of this outfit. And both the American Trench Mil-Spec Socks and classic chukka boots like the Astorflex Greenflex add a dash of everyday style. Throwing on a rugged, casual timepiece like the Horween Leather Weekender from Timex keeps this outfit firmly in casual territory, while a grooming must-have like the Blind Barber 30 Proof Styling Cream takes your ‘do to the next level — to say the least. So, what’s your takeaway from this week’s #OOTD? Which piece is your favorite, at that? Join the conversation on Twitter.

Thanks for reading!

-Beau

by Beau H.

See Now, Buy Now: The Taylor Stitch Point Shirt Is the Versatile Layer You Need Now

A versatile shirt and overshirt from Taylor Stitch — all you need for multiple seasons of layering.

As we always talk about here on the blog when it comes to men’s style essentials, it can often feel counterintuitive to talk about gear that’s slightly out of season — yet, that’s perhaps the best time to consider stocking up. That’s what I mean when it comes to the rugged Taylor Stitch Point Shirt,  a tough organic cotton shirt that doubles as a lightweight jacket and will come in handy now … and later on come fall. It’s yet another essential that bears considering for your closet from Taylor Stitch, a brand that’s nearly at the top of your author’s personal rankings.  So, why the Point Shirt from Taylor Stitch, and why now? Is it the blend of organic cotton and hemp, made for durability and sustainability? Is it the cool Olive Drab color of the Point Shirt, wearable with everything from summer-friendly light wash denim to fall-ready black denim? Is it the patch front pockets and matching cats eye buttons on the Taylor Stitch Point Shirt that give it the feel of a classic overshirt? It’s all of the above, my friends.

The design expertise of Taylor Stitch means that you’re getting all of the great quality and durability, plus the stylish fit you expect from this lauded menswear brand. In short, that means you can layer the Taylor Stitch Point Shirt over everything from a white slub tee now to a long-sleeve grey henley when temperatures start to get chilly at a fall football tailgate. Yes sir, multi-season versatility is the name of the game when you’re looking at the Point Shirt from Taylor Stitch — the Olive Drab color is the perfect foil to either tailored navy shorts and white canvas sneakers now, or dark blue denim and classic suede chukka boots in a few months. And with that on-point fit and durable construction, the Point Shirt from Taylor Stitch is about as good as it gets, season after season. Invest now, wear now, and continue reaping the rewards later on. That’s what you get with Taylor Stitch.

Are you picking up the Point Shirt from Taylor Stitch soon?

by Beau H.

#OOTD: How to Dress in Versatile Style For the Rest of Summer

As we power through the rest of summer, I’d say there’s no better way you can dress than with versatile, comfortable off-duty style in mind. It’s one thing to throw on a classic Oxford shirt and a lightweight navy blazer to head to the office, but it can sometimes be another matter entirely to want to look good when you’re off the clock. That’s what we’re tackling today on The Style Guide — an outfit with a few different layers for a few different looks, each as suited for a casual patio lunch as for a rooftop summer party. It comes down to a colorful, cool base — in this case, the La Paz Ribas Henley — plus other equally versatile and rugged picks (I.E. Slim dark denim and classic SeaVees sneakers). In short, I think you’ll find you already own a lot of these pieces, but we’re wearing them today in a way that allows you to go a few different places, from the ballpark to the bar and back home (for instance). Throw a tough everyday bag into the mix, and you could even wear this to your co-working space or to your favorite coffee shop to knock out some writing (Just me? Ahh, well).  As always, you’re going to look great. Let’s get to it!

Pieces that you know and love, worn in a way that you’re going to love.

  • The Shirt: Filson Feather Cloth Short-Sleeve Shirt, $68 — You could just as easily throw on a classic chambray shirt here, but I think the color and durability of this Filson shirt makes it a winner.
  • The Henley: La Paz Ribas Henley, $58 — The rich green color and unique short-sleeve construction makes the La Paz Ribas Henley a nice, lightweight layer — it’s a visually interesting combo underneath a short-sleeve shirt, too.
  • The Denim: Taylor Stitch Slim Jeans in Cone Mills Standard, $98 — Ever tried to find that dependable pair of everyday dark denim? The Taylor Stitch Slim Jeans should check that box for ya (also available in a less-slim Democratic fit).
  • The Sneakers: SeaVees Hermosa Plimsoll Standard, $78 — The great thing about this ensemble is that you could wear it with everything from classic suede chukka boots to, well, the SeaVees Hermosa Plimsoll.
  • The Belt: WP Standard Officer’s Belt in Natural, $78 — If you follow me on Instagram, surely you’re aware of the fact that I love my WP Standard Officer’s Belt. Small, rugged design touches like this really can elevate an outfit!
  • The Watch: Form-Function-Form Horween Leather Chronograph, $118.98 — A tough Timex chronograph watch meets a beautiful Horween leather strap? Sounds like the perfect casual watch to me.
  • The Hat: Corridor NYC Cap in Indigo, $45 — In this case, throwing on a ballcap really is your call — but if you’re going to go extra-casual, might as well reach for the eye-catching Corridor NYC Cap in Indigo.
  • The Everyday Bag: J. Stark Prospect Briefcase, $295 — Here’s that durable, rugged everyday bag we talked about from J. Stark. Use it for your laptop, use it for a magazine (I myself like Gear Patrol!) or use it for other essentials — the choice is yours.

    That’s another #OOTD all wrapped up nicely, right? Right. The basics make for nice versatility no matter the occasion, from a BBQ to a baseball game to a summer road trip. Layering up a rugged Filson short-sleeve shirt with a cool base layer like the La Paz Ribas Henley also gives you some all-day versatility — simply take off the short-sleeve shirt if it gets too hot. You can also never go wrong with everyday dark denim, especially a pair that’s going to break in nicely and get better with every wear. On the footwear front, you’re also aiming for versatility and cool, breezy style with the SeaVees Hermosa Plimsoll — a classic sneaker pick if ever there was one. I also absolutely love my tough leather belt from WP Standard, and I think you’re going to love yours, as well.  On the accessories front, the perfect casual watch from Timex  truly is an essential pick to go along with this casual, unique look (it’s not every day you see a henley layered under a short-sleeve shirt, after all). Before you step out the door, throw on the Corridor NYC Cap in Indigo and grab the J. Stark Prospect Briefcase — both of those underrated accessories are going to help you go a long way in any summer style scenario. And that’s all I’ve got for you today, folks! Cheers.

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Billy Reid Ombre Stripe Polo

A premium polo for premium wearing occasions.

One step outside is all it takes to remind you that we’re still slogging through summer — but as we always say here on the ole blog, that’s no excuse to not dress in style. And so it goes with today’s Style Pick of the Week, one that you should certainly add to your list of summer style essentials: The Billy Reid Ombre Stripe Polo. You very well might recognize it from a recent edition of The List, and it’s back today with good reason. For one, it’s a warm weather style upgrade that looks more polished than average — the Billy Reid Ombre Stripe Polo really can be worn just like your favorite T-shirt, pairing up easily with chino shorts and white sneakers on weekend days aplenty. Yet, it’s also got that classic Billy Reid sensibility. The Alabama-based designer takes American style staples and classes them up a bit, and the Ombre Stripe Polo is the latest addition to those ranks, what with its tailored cut and mother-of-pearl buttons. It’s also fairly priced for a premium polo — make no mistake, the Ombre Stripe Polo is certainly the sort of polo you could wear with a suit or a lightweight khaki blazer. Yep, that’s right — I’m suggesting you rock this stylish polo shirt with a suit! It can (and should) be done).

It’s exactly what you’d expect from a designer like Billy Reid, who makes classic pieces that are neither too fashion-forward nor too stuffy. That’s why the Ombre Stripe Polo can be worn like a T-shirt (with light wash jeans and white canvas sneakers) or like a more tailored dress shirt (with a navy cotton blazer and tan chinos) — it’s just that well-made and that well-designed.  You should certainly be looking to add more versatile style staples like the Ombre Stripe Polo into your warm-weather wardrobe — there’s still plenty of summer left to bust out a few unexpected menswear moves. You could even break out the Ombre Stripe Polo as an alternative to a tank top when heading to the beach — it’ll work more serviceably to wear with a tailored pair of swim trunks and some stylish slip-on sneakers for a few post-beach drinks. That’s just one of the many ways in which the  Ombre Stripe Polo from Billy Reid can help you stand out in a sea of baggy, flourescent polos this summer. Get yours while you’ve still got time, and then get out there.

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: The Best Denim Jacket to Buy Now, Grimm Artisanal Ales and Sunday Brunch Style

It’s been a busy couple of weeks here on the blog, even outside of regular menswear writing pursuits and #NYFWM. Last weekend, I was excited and thrilled to be back in my home state of Michigan to celebrate the wedding reception of two great friends (congrats to the Vissers!). Of course, you probably saw that if you follow me on Instagram (wink, wink). It was a lovely evening complete with some fun dancing and plenty of Bell’s Oberon in the Michigan heat.

I wore my Thursday Boots Statesman Dress Shoes (shop them in this post!) and a charcoal Awearness Kenneth Cole suite, along with a crisp Todd Snyder dress shirt. We capped off the weekend by visiting Belle Isle Park, home to the Belle Isle Conservatory and Aquarium (again, as seen on my Instagram!). It was a beautiful day to explore and get outside, even in the heat — it’s a good thing that we capped off the day with a trip to Batch Brewing Company in Detroit, located near the West Side Industrial area and featuring easily drinkable beers like the Berggasse 19, a Vienna lager with some rich flavor. In the meantime, I’m hoping your week is closing out nicely — I’ve got some brews to enjoy, and some menswear to write about. The rest of your Friday Read is below!

  • Haven’t been keeping up with our ongoing See Now, Buy Now series here on the blog? Then let me get ya updated on one of my favorite recent entries — last week, I told you all about how the Flint and Tinder Denim Trucker Jacket can work as the perfect summer layer, able to pair with a rugged henley and chinos or an Oxford shirt and slim chino shorts in equal measure. Read the post here.
  • It’s hard to find but delicious to drink — I’m talking, of course, about the coveted Lambo Door Double IPA from Brooklyn’s own Grimm Artisanal Ales. I’m looking forward to checking out their brand-new, permanent East Williamsburg location very soon, but for now, I’d say I’ll have to make do with re-reading my latest feature for GearMoose covering this excellent & uniquely crushable brew.

  • I’m all about upgrading your style in unexpected ways for everyday situations — take Sunday brunch, for instance. Your focus should be on dressing in a way that’s casual and comfortable, yet also distinct and versatile — hence, my latest feature on what to wear for Sunday brunch over at The Manual! Who else wants a Bloody Mary now?
  • Not in the mood to pack away your boots even as the thermostat climbs? Then, the OluKai Nalukai Boots, as covered in last week’s Style Pick of the Week, are the lightweight option you need to buy now, and wear now.

Loyal Style Guide readers, thanks for sticking it out until the end today! Join us again tomorrow for a brand-new Style Pick of the Week, and let’s all try to stay cool out there. Until then!

-Beau

by Beau H.

#OOTD: How to Wear Your New Favorite Boots, Even in Summer

Although I can nearly hear an audible gasp coming from the assembled crowd now, there’s still plenty good reason for you to wear a pair of rugged leather boots … even in the summer months. It can be done, and it all comes down to time and place. So, that’s where today’s #OOTD is taking us — should you add leather boots to your list of summer style essentials? I, for one, think so. And believe you me, you’re going to want to wear the stylish leather boots featured below as much as you can once you feast your eyes on ’em. The Viberg Service Boots as seen below are truly the exception to the rule when it comes to stowing away your boots for the summer months. If you’re heading out on a camping trip, rocking your way through a music festival — like The National’s Homecoming Festival! — or simply knocking back beers at your favorite microbrewery, there’s something to be said for breaking out a pair of hard-wearing leather boots, particularly on days and nights when the heat isn’t too overwhelming. The other key comes in how you wear these durable leather boots — thus, a classic pocket tee, rugged dark denim and a lightweight overshirt (for a breezy evening) are the pieces we’re calling into duty alongside the Viberg Service Boots. Still skeptical? Follow me.

Lace up your boots, throw on your dark denim and get ready to go, folks.

  • The Denim: Taylor Stitch Slim Jeans in Cone Mills Selvedge, $98 — A beautiful pair of stylish dark denim from Taylor Stitch is the perfect base for this casually rugged outfit. Break in these bad boys ASAP.
  • The Overshirt: Finisterre Lerwick Shirt, $83.98 — For when summer nights get a little breezy, keep the well-crafted Finisterre Lerwick Shirt handy. It’s a perfect match to layer over a classic T-shirt. On that note …
  • The Tee: Taylor Stitch Heavy Bag Tee in Natural, $45 — More Taylor Stitch gear? Yessir. The well-fitting, durably made Taylor Stitch Heavy Bag Tee is a tough, essential base layer.
  • The Boots: Viberg Service Boots, $690 (Huckberry Exclusive) — Ahh, yes. Here are the rugged leather boots in question, my friends. These Viberg boots sure will break in nicely over time — wear ’em for plenty of summer adventures.
  • The Belt: Line of Trade Veg-Tanned Leather Belt, $55 — A richly crafted, stylish leather belt is one of the more underrated accessories a guy can own — get yours with this Line of Trade belt, now.
  • The Socks: Anonymousism Wigwam Jacquard Crew Socks, $20 — Mark my words, you can’t beat a good pair of subtly stylish Anonymousism patterned socks. These are some of the best out there, in any season.
  • The Watch: Form-Function-Form Horween Leather Chronograph, $118.98 — Simplicity and rugged style in one affordable package is what you’re getting with this Timex leather chronograph — the perfect foil for rugged leather boots.
  • The Everyday Carry: J. Stark Prospect Briefcase, $295 — Want an extra-tough, extra-durable bag that’s going to help get your everyday carry in order? You want the J. Stark Prospect Briefcase.
  • The Hat: Corridor NYC Cap in Indigo, $45  — What’s better than a stylish, casual ballcap? A ballcap made from cool indigo denim. It’s a fitting topper to this casual-yet-unique ensemble.
  • The Grooming Essential: GOA Purifying Face Cleanser, $36 — For fighting the effects of your vices (I.E. Mass beer consumption) on your skin, the GOA Purifying Face Cleanser is premium and very well-made.
    So. that’ll wrap up today’s #OOTD. What’s your favorite part of this look? Hopefully, it’s opened up your mind to the potential that a pair of rugged leather boots can bring to the table in terms of style, even in the summer. If you keep the rest of your basics simple and functional, yet visually interesting, like the Finisterre Lerwick Shirt  and the tough Taylor Stitch Heavy Bag Tee, you’ll surely be in good shape when breezy summer days and nights roll into town. And much like your leather boots, a pair of stylish dark denim from Taylor Stitch will break in quite nicely over time — so there’s that. Everyday carry essentials like the J. Stark Prospect Briefcase and a functionally minded Timex leather chronograph are also important components of any summer style ensemble, much less one that could go from a farmer’s market trip to a park stroll to a brewery — who’s with me on that? Small touches, like apair of Anonymousism patterned socks or an indigo cap, are cool, unexpected and ready for anything, too. And again, you’re not going to regret investing in a pair of the Viberg Service Boots  — trust me on that. At any rate: It’s time to get out there and explore! Cheers and thanks for reading.