Tag / astorflex

by Beau H.

See Now, Buy Now: The Astorflex Bitflex Chelsea Boots Are the Best Way to Step into Spring

Now available via Huckberry for a heck of a price, these sleek and simple Chelsea boots are primed for spring.

Let’s get one thing straight right off the bat: Yes, we really do love ourselves some Astorflex boots here at The Style Guide. They make a heck of a pair of classic chukka boots, for starters. What’s more, this sustainably made, stylish brand keeps churning out essential men’s footwear, season after season, from lace-up boots to sneakers to today’s offering — more than worthy of including ’em in our latest See Now, Buy Now feature (Editor’s note: Click through to read all about why I love Astorflex). And lest you think we’re repeating ourselves here, the Astorflex Bitflex Chelsea Boots on display today are an all-new pair, exclusive to our pals at Huckberry. Can you say “spring style essentials,” anyone? The Cuoio Bitflex Chelsea Boots blend a striking new color with a sleek and easily wearable silhouette, and they do so just in time for prime “Chelsea boots season.” Is there such a thing? Perhaps not … until now.


How do you get into this monumental (and all-new!) season the right way? Well, it’s relatively simple. Pick a pair of the best light wash denim for men, throw on the Astorflex Bitflex Chelsea Boots in a handsome shade of dark tan, then accessorize with simple staples like a rugged short-sleeve henley (when it’s warm out) or a classic crewneck sweater or waxed trucker jacket (when it’s still a little chilly this March). The natural rubber soles provide comfort from the ground up, while the leather on the Astorflex Bitflex Chelsea Boots is treated with all-natural ingredients for a purchase you can certainly feel good about. The easy-to-wear nature of the Cuoio Bitflex Chelsea Boots means you can match them up with other neutral style staples for early spring, including navy chinos and a charcoal Oxford — that’s a look that’ll work wonders for you at the office and at happy hour. You justt need to snag your pair, well … now.

Who’s going to be picking up the Cuoio Bitflex Chelsea Boots from Astorflex? I’d love to hear from you in the comments below! 

by Beau H.

See Now, Buy Now: Astorflex Is Making Your New Pair of Fall Chukka Boots

Astorflex

Sleek leather chukka boots crafted for durability and style all season.

We talk a lot about stylish leather boots here on The Style Guide. Specifically, we’ve talked a lot about rugged, stylish Astorflex footwear this fall season. The Astorflex brand can do it all, from classic suede chukka boots to Chelsea boots and lace-up boots, and they craft products with quality and sustainability in mind. And now, Astorflex  has definitely done it again — meet your new favorite pair of leather chukka boots. That’s certainly high praise, but stick with me for a second. The all-new, Huckberry-exclusive  Astorflex Greenflex Leather Chukka Boots are where it’s at this season — to put it simply.  You might already be familiar with the Astorflex Greenflex Chukka Boot in its original iteration — finished with stylish and sustainable suede. But the Greenflex Leather Chukka Boots from Astorflex up the ante considerably, starting with durable tan leather that’ll pair up nicely with fall favorites ranging from slim blue denim to grey corduroys or olive chinos. Yes, that’s right — they can work with #menswear combinations aplenty (including charcoal trousers like the Flint and Tinder 365 Pant as seen above).

That wearability starts with the premium construction of these stylish men’s boots, because you can’t rock leather chukka boots for days on end without a sturdy build. And the leather sole and stacked leather heel guarantee tough durability. Using soft European leather and the sort of handmade construction you can only find in northern Italy also guarantees great quality.  Yes indeed, the Astorflex Greenflex Leather Chukka Boots check all the boxes when it comes to a go-anywhere pair of durable leather boots. Feel free to wear these now with broken-in blue denim and a striped henley on the weekends, then keep them handy as you dress for fall travel or even a day at the office. The slim profile and handsome tan leather of the Astorflex Greenflex Leather Chukka Boots will team nicely with navy or light grey wool trousers and a navy blazer — plus an American-made Oxford — for meetings, presentations and drinks after work. Given all of those possibilities, how are you ever going to take the Astorflex Greenflex Leather Chukka Boots off? I’m not quite sure , to be honest.

Will the Astorflex Greenflex Leather Chukka Boots be joining your ever-growing footwear collection this fall? 

by Beau H.

Keep Portland Weird! A West Coast Weekend Adventure

Hanging out at TwentySix Cafe in versatile, rugged gear for exploring Portland. My Bridge & Burn Northfork Woodland Jacket, the Taylor Stitch Sashiko Shirt, All-American Washed Jeans from Flint and Tinder and my Grizzly Wheat President Boots from Thursday Boots worked out tremendously!

Before we kick things off in today’s latest travel style feature on The Style Guide, know that we’re not about to dive into a “Portlandia” parody (as outstanding as that show happens to be). No sir, this past weekend gave me the chance to head West — although I’d spent a weekend exploring Los Angeles and even made a trip out to Las Vegas for work last year, I’d never been to the City of Roses. I’ve been hearing great things about its balance of excellent #menswear, standout craft beer, a great culinary scene and of course, stellar live music — in my book, that’s more than enough reason to get out and adventure.


And the my long weekend brought with it the added value of an amazing concert — always a bonus! Yes indeed, seeing excellent synth pop band Future Islands play the renowned Crystal Ballroom was a heck of a treat on Friday night. Although it was quite the long trek to get out there following a long work week in New York, I did my best to pack in style (as you might have seen via my Instagram page). Come along for the journey!

Slim, faded denim, a durable Saddleback duffel bag, trusty James Dean Eyewear sunglasses … all that you need for a weekend out West.

Traveling in style and comfort can be a bit of a challenge — particularly on a long flight. That’s why I reached for my durable, pleasingly faded All-American Washed Jeans from Flint and Tinder. Made from premium cotton denim and finished with just a hint of stretch, my All-American Washed Jeans were a fine pair of denim to go from the airport to go to the hip, quiet and cozy TwentySix Cafe near my Irvington accommodations. And my uniquely detailed Taylor Stitch Sashiko Shirt worked just as well on the plane as it did trekking around Portland, particularly when teamed with the richly crafted Grizzly Wheat President Boot from Thursday Boots. To stay on time through it all, I reached for a brand-new, slim and refined Timex watch — the versatile leather strap proved easily wearable all day long. To shield my eyes from the sun in style, a new pair of James Dean Eyewear JDS100 Sunglasses looked great and proved up to the task. The next time your trip calls for exploring a new city on foot, reach for mobile denim, comfortable-yet-tough boots, a sharp watch and stylish, go-anywhere shirting. 

All the right details for exploring Portland, including a new Timex watch and my rugged Thursday Boots Grizzly Wheat President Boots.

And exploration was certainly the name of the game on Friday leading up to that night’s Future Islands show. Thankfully, my durable, rugged and extremely well-crafted Saddleback Rounded Leather Duffel Bag held up to the challenge of lugging around my favorite travel style essentials as I hopped from grabbing a crucial cold brew to the excellent Bunk Bar Wonder, one of a series of PDX locations offering gourmet sandwiches, excellent craft cocktails and a very solid beer selection. A hint — get the Molě Tator Tots, packed with delicious flavor. It was a great afternoon lead-in to a stop at the richly appointed Tanner Goods Flagship Store and the accompanying craft cocktail/beer bar & patio, The Wayback. This American-made brand has long been a favorite of mine for handsome leather goods, durable outerwear, stylish home decor and terrific attention to detail — it was a treat to finally stop by! So with coffee, menswear and craft beer on lock, that led to the night’s highlight: Future Islands bringing down a packed Crystal Ballroom with a stellar show! It helped that I dressed in comfort and style; I can simply never resist the chance to wear rugged leather boots to a concert, either.

The Baltimore-based synth pop band’s rise to fame has been a long one — they’ve played more than 1,000 shows across the country since 2006, often booking them on their own. And if you’re not familiar, I’d say you’ll recognize them from their 2014 appearance on Letterman playing hit single “Seasons (Waiting on You).” Believe me, frontman Sam Herring is every bit as energetic, passionate and enjoyable in person — I knew that from seeing the band play Panorama 2017 here in NYC! And their return to Portland was an anticipated one, coming as it did off the release of one of this year’s better albums, the emotionally packed “The Far Field.”

With an extensive discography spanning five albums and plenty of crowd favorites, a Future Islands show is full of highs and lows, joy and passion — it’s a sight to behold, from hits like 2017’s “Ran” and 2014’s “A Dream of You and Me” to fan favorites like “Seasons,” of course! And Crystal Ballroom, what with a historic interior and a tremendous craft beer selection — including choice selections brewed in Portland — is simply a quirky, cool, standout venue for a live show. Did it top my trip to Nashville to see Young the Giant and Cold War Kids? It’s tough to say – but Future Islands blew me away yet again. Even dealing with a bit of jet lag, it was still a heck of a way to cap off a big Portland day.

Durable Allen Edmonds boots, a finely crafted Abercrombie cotton shirt and a durable Timex x Red Wing watch — perfect Portland essentials.

So, with Friday night in the books, my Saturday kicked off in style — from the ground up, as it were. For getting around Portland with durability, rugged looks and sharp versatility in mind, my brand-new Allen Edmonds Caen Cap Toe Boots worked extremely well. Of course, I started my day right on time with my Timex x Red Wing Waterbury Watch, but stellar boots were just as critical. Coming from a brand mainly known for stylish men’s dress shoes, these rugged cap toe boots are a welcome addition to the Allen Edmonds line — and what’s more, they worked nicely in tandem with the crisp, easily wearable Flint and Tinder 365 Pants. Cut like a five-pocket pant and made from a blend of cotton and lyrca, my 365 Pants helped me grab a quick coffee at essential Portland stop Blue Star Donuts before kicking off afternoon shopping at Style Guide favorites Bridge & Burn. On the shirting front, I reached for a nice fall go-between — a new Abercrombie & Fitch Herringbone Shirt, courtesy of the brand. I can’t recommend the rugged versatility of Abercrombie & Fitch enough, and this soft-washed cotton shirt was able to withstand a full day out and about in Portland.

I packed a lot into an already busy day, including a stop at the excellent Kiriko Made shop — renowned for indigo textiles, excellent shirting and stunning attention to detail on items as small as pocket squares, Kiriko should certainly be on your shopping list if you get out to Portland.  And just as with my trip to Nashville, I had to hit up a renowned craft beer spot or two. The afternoon started with the Deschutes Brewery Portland location — a craft beer lover’s dream.  Lauded for rich, innovative and hard-to-find beers (at least back in NYC), I can’t recommend the nearly legendary Black Butte Porter or the Inversion IPA enough. It was a nice lead-in to another busy evening — centered, of course, around a trip to bustling sports bar The Independent to catch my beloved Michigan State Spartans take on the Notre Dame Fighting Irish! And for a postgame brew, I headed to 10Barrel Brewing, another Oregon favorite that’s always a treat to sip.

Men's travel style

Heading back home in comfortable Standard Deviation denim, a classic Bridge and Burn tee and my trusty Huckberry Explorer’s Cap.

To kick off my last and final day in style — and with a jolt – I stopped by the Ace Hotel Portland, a hip boutique hotel that’s also a favorite spot in NYC for post-work drinks and small bites. Oh, and the coffee from Stumptown Coffee Roasters? It’s excellent, too. I also made my final day count in terms of #menswear, from my Astorflex Greenflex in Dark Khaki chukka boots to my slim, stylish and well-fitting Standard Deviation denim. Standard Deviation does it right when it comes to stylish denim — the brand’s Two-Part Solution allows you to try out two pairs for 15 days to nail down your perfect fit; when the time comes, you pay the discounted price of $78 per pair. Not bad, ehh? And certainly stylish for exploring Portland and heading to Ecliptic Brewing for a nice brew or two before a long flight back home.

I also dressed in laidback style with a new Bridge & Burn Basic Tee, a slim-fitting number made with a breezy cotton blend. The Heather Wine color  of the Basic Tee also played nicely off my Astorflex Greenflex in Dark Khaki chukka boots. Luckily, my essential Timex x Todd Snyder Military Watch ensured I stayed on time throughout the day.  For navigating a new city, reach for classic suede chukka boots and perhaps some favorite tunes, as I did when I plugged into stylish headphones from the Bespoke Post Vibes Box. With a busy, enjoyable and exciting weekend behind me, it was time all too soon to head hone. I appreciated Portland for its quiet atmosphere, its mix of amazing coffee, great menswear and live music, and the attention to detail in everything from food to craft beer. Is Portland “weird,” per se? It’s different than New York and Brooklyn, and that’s a great thing!

If you’ve got questions on the best things to do in Portland, drop me a note on Twitter. Follow along on Instagram for more men’s travel style tips, and check back tomorrow for a new #OOTD post.

Thanks for reading!

-Beau

by Beau H.

Online Shopping Picks: The Best Men’s Boots to Buy This Fall

My friends, it’s that time of the season again — time to talk about the best men’s boots to buy for fall. The season is, as I’ve said in past weeks, perhaps the best for us #menswear fans — particularly if you’re a fan of rugged fall style essentials. We get to break out our favorite layers, from a slim denim trucker jacket to a rugged striped henley, and better yet … we get to break out stylish leather boots aplenty all along the way. A great pair of leather boots can complement nearly any outfit, and I think you’ll find that the picks below do just that. A herringbone blazer and slim dark denim? Throw on a pair of classic leather chukkas. A casual striped henley and grey selvedge denim? Stylish suede boots ought to do the trick. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the below picks.  Again, the right pair of leather boots  — affordably priced, well-made and supremely stylish — can take you from football tailgate to bar crawl and back, with a week of work in between, of course. So, start checking a few items off your men’s style wish list this season; I know I’ve got a few more picks to add to mine. Follow along on Instagram for real-time style updates, and let me know how we’re doing over at The Style Guide Facebook page.

#1. Original Chippewa 6-Inch Service Boot in Crazyhorse — $270
Original Chippewa

A not-too-bulky pair of rugged fall boots featuring durable construction and great looks.

Believe you me, it’s tough to play favorites when it comes to rugged leather boots for the fall season — but Original Chippewa just might take the cake when it comes to the  brand’s 6-Inch Service Boot. With a rugged silhouette that’s not too bulky — plus premium construction and a quality price — the 6-Inch Service Boot is darn near the whole package. Wear it with your favorite pairr of dark denim and a black moto jacket for edgy weekend fall style.

#2.  Hudson Shoes Elmore Boot in Black — $270

A sleeker, modern combat boot with plenty of style to burn.

Fancy something a little more sleek and less rugged? Hudson Shoes has what you’re looking for when it comes to the Elmore Boot. With the look of a classic combat boot, the Elmore Boot should lend itself well to rock n’roll-ready outfits — think slim, faded grey denim and a stylish graphic tee. The slick black color also lends itself to dressier pairings — if you’ve got a tan or grey herringbone suit in your rotation, the Hudson Shoes Elmore Boots are the boots with which to wear it.

#3.  Astorflex Bootflex in Dark Khaki — $190
Astorflex Bootflex

A rugged-yet-comfortable pair of lace-up boots.

Long a favorite around these parts for blending sustainability and great looks, Astorflex has been making — in recent months, anyways — what could just be your new favorite pair of boots — the Astorflex Bootflex in Dark Khaki.  Finished with a natural rubber sole for comfort and done up in a versatile shade of deep tan, the Astorflex Bootflex should work quite stylishly for plenty of casual fall outings — from the pumpkin patch to your next football tailgate.
#4. Red Wing Iron Ranger Boot in Harness — $300

As good as it gets — the legendary Iron Ranger Boot from Red Wing. Bravo, folks!

As legendary a pair of fall boots as it gets, Red Wing absolutely delivers the goods when it comes to its lauded Red Wing Iron Ranger Boot. Blame it on the Americana craze of the mid-aughts, but the Iron Ranger Boot has taken on a life of its own — and with good reason. It’s a ridiculously rugged, stylish and wearable boot that’ll break in beautifully over time. What’s not to love about that? A job well-done to Red Wing on this one.

#5.  Hudson Shoes Leiwston Chukka — $110

A sleek pair of chukka boots, made with versatile style in mind.

We’ll throw some classic leather chukka boots in the mix this time, just for fun (wink, wink). As first seen in our Style Pick of the Week series, the Hudson Shoes Lewiston Chukka blends a truly excellent price with quality craftsmanship and versatile style. These stylish leather chukka boots — this pair is an admittedly popular seller — can team with nearly anything in your wardrobe, from a worsted wool navy suit, a pair of slim grey denim or a faded pair of blue jeans.

Honorable Mention: Astorflex Greenflex Rough in Sand — $150

An updated take on the Astorflex Greenflex — the durable, treaded sole is a key point of differentiation.

As previously seen in this site’s See Now, Buy Now series, the Astorflex Greenflex Rough is a recent addition to the brand’s line of stylish and sustainably made boots (but you know all about those already). And the Greenflex Rough updates the classic suede chukka in a few crucial ways, starting with the durable sole featuring a treaded grip. It’s a neat tweak on a pair of boots that’ll work with broken-in denim, olive chinos or burgundy corduroys this season.

That wraps up our take on the season’s best boots, folks. What did you think? Any particular favorites on this list? Again, the versatility and rugged appeal of a pair of boots like the Astorflex Greenflex Rough can’t be emphasized enough — and a classic pair of tough leather boots like the Red Wing Iron Ranger certainly deserves its place on this list, too. Don’t forget the casual, versatile look of the Astorflex Bootflex, too — that’s one pair that you can put a lot of miles on this fall. And if it’s sleek fall style you prefer, the Hudson Shoes Elmore Boots are the ones to buy. Let me know in the comments below or on Twitter as to your favorite style — see you out there this fall!

-Beau

by Beau H.

#OOTD: Wear Your New Denim Trucker Jacket This Way for Fall

Now that we’re truly getting into fall — at least, on the calendar — it’s time to break out a rugged denim trucker jacket, I’d wager.  Just as a cotton denim jacket works in the spring and summer, it’s a surprisingly easy-to-wear fall layering essential — as you’ll see today. The right denim trucker jacket is made with quality fabric and the type of construction that’ll break in over time, so it’ll work from September into November when worn properly. And it’s all the better that Flint and Tinder is making the tough denim trucker jacket you need for all your seasonal style scenarios. From a tailgate to a day trip to a brewery tour — gotta love those brewery tours — the deep indigo trucker jacket you see below brings comfort, versatility and style in sapdes.  And I think you’re going to like the way we’ve styled it, from classic suede chukkas all the way through to an investment-worthy watch. Let me know what you think of today’s #OOTD in the comments or over on The Style Guide Facebook page. With no further delay, let’s get ready for fall!

When worn with rich green trousers and a striped shirt, a denim trucker jacket can be a fall layering essential.

The Trucker Jacket: Flint and Tinder Stretch Denim Trucker Jacket, $158 — As seen recently in our See Now, Buy Now series, this Flint and Tinder trucker jacket features a crisp indigo color, comfortable fabric and terrific construction.

The Shirt: Life/After/Denim Academy Shirt in Heather Grey, $138 — Although a bit pricey, this Life/After/Denim shirt features yarn-dyed cotton and a neat, neutral color palette — plus, those stripes are a neat design touch.  I have a feeling you’ll get a lot of wear this season out of the Life/After/Denim Academy Shirt.

The Pants: Bridge and Burn Polk Pants in Deep Forest, $108 –Early fall is a great time to start working dark, rich colors into your wardrobe — the Bridge and Burn Polk Pants are an excellent jumping-off point.

The Boots: Astorflex Greenflex Rough Boots, $134.98 — Want a pair of classic suede chukkas? The well-constructed Astorflex Greenflex Rough Boots feature a sturdy sole, visually interesting texture and a color that nicely offsets the navy striped Life/After/Denim shirt and the deep indigo of the Flint and Tinder trucker jacket.
 
The Socks: Anonymous-ism Tweed Nep Crew Socks, $30— Anoynmous-ism is known for its ridiculously well-made, stylish men’s socks — the sharp navy color of these tweed socks is fall style at its best, with comfort thrown in for good measure.

The Belt: Line of Trade Veg-Tanned Leather Belt in Auburn, $55 ($40 When Signing Up for Bespoke Post) — As we always say at The Style Guide, don’t sleep on stylish accessories  — this durable leather belt is a fall-ready way to, well, hold up your pants in style.

The Watch: Huckberry Lum-Tec B31 Bronze Automatic Watch, $899.99— We told you we’d get to an investment-worthy watch, right? The incredibly durable, striking Huckberry Lum-Tec B31 is that very watch.

The Everyday Carry: Billykirk Small Carryall, $238.98— With its blend of remarkable craftsmanship and eye-catching looks, the Billykirk Small Carryall is a stylish everyday bag for fall weekend day trips or bar crawls.

I hope today’s #OOTD gives you a few ideas when it comes to how to wear a denim trucker jacket this fall.  It’s a classic silhouette made all the better by the fact that Flint and Tinder crafts its Stretch Denim Trucker Jacket with quality and versatility in mind — that makes it the ideal outerwear piece atop the Life/After/Denim Academy Shirt.  And in a deep shade of green, the Bridge and Burn Polk Pants  are a unique way to nod toward the start of fall — you can wear the Polk Pants into early winter, too. If you don’t yet have a pair of rugged leather chukka boots in your closet, grab the Astorflex Greenflex Rough Boots — the tread sole and fall-appropriate color make them a seasonal footwear essential, surely.

As I always say, stylish accessories are key; in that regard, Anoynmous-ism is going to be a terrific bet when it comes to stylish men’s socks, while the Line of Trade Veg-Tanned Leather Belt is a richly crafted belt for daily wear. On the watch front, the Huckberry Lum-Tec B31 is absolutely the ideal watch to complement a tough denim trucker jacket — it’s investment-worthy and made with rugged good looks.  Last but not least — what would your daily carry be without  a stylish everyday bag  like the Billykirk Small Carryall? Hopefully, we accounted for all the men’s style essentials you might need in the season ahead.
Happy shopping, enjoy the season and stay stylish!
 -Beau

by Beau H.

The List: Here’s All the New, Rugged Menswear to Rock This Fall

It’s time for another edition of The List, everyone’s favorite bimonthly roundup of, quite simply, the best men’s gear out there.  And today, we’re covering rugged gear for early fall — seeing as we’re nearing October, it seems fitting … right? By now, maybe you’ve stored away your classic summer sneakers and are reaching for heavier layers, pieces with some texture and heft to them. That’s all GREAT in the opinion of this #menswear writer — I can’t wait to break out even more fall style essentials across the weeks ahead. With that in mind, let’s check out this edition of The List — feel free to shoot me a note on Twitter with any questions, comments, feedback … you know the drill. Here we go!

Wolverine Original 1000 Mile Roughout Boot in Amber Suede — $299.98
Wolverine 1000 Mile Boots

An incredibly great-looking boot from Wolverine. Man!

My, oh my. Wolverine has done it again with a new take on the 1000 Mile Boot. The 1000 Mile Roughout Boot in Amber Suede looks absolutely gorgeous, well-made and rugged. Nice work by Wolverine back in Michigan, ehh?
Zodiac Super Sea Wolf 53 Compression Watch — $1,074.98

A truly expensive watch that truly backs up the price tag.

Have we jumped the shark  a bit by recommending a $1,000-plus watch? Well, Zodiac certainly knows its way around a timepiece — the Super Sea Wolf is durable, rugged and truly badass. Wear the Zodiac Super Sea Wolf with a rugged henley and classic leather boots, beer in hand.
Taylor Stitch Crewneck Pocket Tee — $58
Taylor Stitch

A classic pocket tee perfect for fall layering.

If it’s so close to fall, why are we recommending a stylish pocket tee as a top today? There’s never a bad time for a classic pocket tee, and the Taylor Stitch Crewneck Pocket Tee will work to layer handsomely under a rugged cardigan or a moleskin shirt.
Astorflex Greenflex Rough Boots — $134.98

A perfectly made, tough pair of classic chukka boots for early fall and beyond.

As previously discussed in our See Now, Buy Now series, Astorflex gets it right with the Greenflex Rough Boots. These classic men’s chukka boots featured an updated tread sole and the type of color & texture to pair well with plenty of other fall style essentials.

Sturdy Brothers Everyday Belt in Chestnut — $80
Sturdy Brothers

A handsome leather belt that’ll look even better the more you wear it this fall.

If you’ve got rugged leather chukka boots included in your outfit, you need a durable, classic leather belt that’ll fit right in with the heavier fabrics and textures of fall. Sturdy Brothers gets it right with the brand’s Everyday Belt.

Taylor Stitch Utility Shirt — $148

A uniquely textured, uniquely built shirt fit for fall layering.

More Taylor Stitch menswear in this edition of The List? Certainly. With a unique Army Green color, textured herringbone fabric and functional build, the Taylor Stitch Utility Shirt is practically made to be worn for weekend adventures — preferably layered over the Taylor Stitch Crewneck Pocket Tee.

Spiegelau IPA Glasses (Set of Four) — $32
Spiegelau

The best way to enjoy your favorite IPA — right? Right.

While we’ve talked to this point solely about rugged menswear for fall, the season is also an excellent time to break out a rich, finely crafted IPA on a cool night — ehh? The Spiegelau IPA Glasses are the perfect accessory for it.

Flint and Tinder Texas-Made Oxford in White — $89
Flint and Tinder

A well-made, well-fitting white Oxford shirt never goes out of style — agreed?

Another entry in our See Now, Buy Now series in past weeks, this American-made Oxford from Flint and Tinder is crisp, thoughtfully constructed and wearable with everything from dark denim to olive chinos and a grey cardigan.

DSTLD Slim Jeans in Light Wash — $95

DSTLD Jeans

Slim jeans in a light wash are a unique change of pace from your typical dark blue or black denim.

So, you’ve got your American-made Oxford  or your rugged Taylor Stitch Utility Shirt — what denim are you wearing?  With their cool light wash and slim fit, these DSTLD jeans are a unique change of pace from dark denim.

Ventus Black Kite B-01 Carbon Fiber Watch — $500

A sleek, strong watch that’ll work perfectly with plenty of fall style ensembles.

Want a tough, dependable and stylish men’s watch that pairs well with everything from an army green field coat and black denim to a herringbone blazer and black wingtip boots? The Venus Black Kite Carbon Fiber Watch is the one.

Outset Leather Grill Gloves — $20

Effective leather grilling gloves for all your outdoor cooking pursuits this fall.

Believe you me, fall is as good a time as any to fire up the grill at a tailgate or a bonfire — and these durable Outset Leather Grill Gloves are a go-to accessory.

Line of Trade Machined Steel Bottle Opener — $23.20

A sleek and tailgate-ready bottle opener — just add your favorite beer.

Just as badly as you need durable grilling gloves for your next tailgate, so too do you need a handy, durable bottle opener. Is it one of the best bottle openers to buy this season? Well, it’s durable and it doesn’t look half-bad, so … yes.
Titanium EDC Essentials — $89

A crisply designed everyday essential that’ll keep everything you need in one place.

The next time you head out on a weekend trip or a day hike, bring along this handy everyday carry essential — you might be surprised how often you find a use for the simply designed Titanium EDC Essentials.
Thursday Boots Grizzly Wheat President Boot — $199
Thursday Boots

Handsome, durable boots that’ll break in quite well over time this fall.

Last but not least — these rugged leather boots from Thursday Boots are the ideal complement to fall outfits aplenty — particularly if you layer up with something like the  Taylor Stitch Utility Shirt.

OK, Style Guide readers — that’ll do it today for this rendition of The List! What was your favorite? Personally, I love the  Taylor Stitch Utility Shirt. At any rate, thanks for reading — stay stylish!
-Beau

by Beau H.

See Now, Buy Now: Huckberry Is Now Stocking Your New Favorite Chukka Boots

A dependable pair of chukka boots, now available on an upgraded tread sole. Get ’em ASAP via Huckberry.

Some pairs of footwear just immediately call to mind the season ahead — right now, the new Astorflex Greenflex Rough Boots are that pair of footwear (at least, to yours truly at The Style Guide). And the great news? You can get your new favorite chukka boots right this very instant from our pals at Huckberry (Editor’s note: Huckberry is an advertising partner of this blog — but all opinions are my own!). What exactly is it that makes the Greenflex Rough an excellent addition to your fall footwear rotation? Take it from me — this new Astorflex style knocks it out of the park when it comes to a combination of classic looks and seasonal reliability. And if you haven’t started shopping for your fall style essentials yet, I’d urge you to start with the Greenflex Rough. I certainly love Astorflex for its mix of sustainability, style and versatility, as you might remember from our Style Guide Recommends series. The Astorflex Greenflex, absolutely a classic pair of chukka boots, is a particular favorite in that regard — and the Greenflex Rough amplifies those qualities even more. Crucially, Astorflex amps up this silhouette in casual, rugged fashion, starting with a treaded sole for added grip and traction on slippery surfaces this fall. Throw in metal eyelets for durability, and the Greenflex Rough is a winner. The good —  neigh, excellent — part about this approach is that the Greenflex Rough still retains all the style points you need this fall. So how should  you wear the Greenflex Rough? Bear with me.

Crucially, the Greenflex Rough comes in a rich Sand colorway, all the better for pairing with everything from slim black denim and a classic men’s T-shirt to slim olive chinos and a rugged henley. Don’t save them simply for rugged fall style situations, though. I’d break out the  Astorflex Greenflex Rough Boots with an unstructured navy blazer, a classic grey crewneck sweater and burgundy corduroys for a little late fall, business casual style when the time comes. Don’t worry if they can stand up to repeated wear, either — from the looks of it, the Astorflex Greenflex Rough Boots are built for the long haul this season.

How would you style the Astorflex Greenflex Rough Boots? Will you be picking up this new addition to the Astorflex line?

by Beau H.

The List: Buy This #Menswear to Close Out The Summer

How’s your month been? Tough to believe we’re barreling through August, ehh? Fear not — we’ve got #menswear shopping to slow down the rush of summer and bolster your wardrobe (and lifestyle) in the process. Yes indeed, we’re talking about the best gear to buy right now. This week’s entry in The List series here at the old Style Guide takes us into new territory. Namely, we’re talking one of the best coffee makers to buy now — as sold by Bespoke Post, of course — plus a stylish navy blazer and perhaps your new favorite sneakers. But wait, there’s more! Really, that’s just the tip of the iceberg. How we doin’? Keep up with my #menswear adventures on Instagram or Facebook — I look forward to hearing all about your purchases of some of the best men’s gear around … wink, wink.

Timex

Astorflex Softflex Sneakers in Peanut — $170

Astorflex

Sneakers that blend craftsmanship, sustainability and style in equal measure.

Ever find a pair of sneakers that exemplify somewhat rugged craftsmanship and yet also look pleasingly casual and laidback? That’s the Astorflex Softlex for ya.

Corridor NYC Stretch Blazer — $295.98

Corridor NYC

A uniquely well-crafted, durable and mobile blazer.

Some classic men’s blazers out there make you take a second look — such is the case with the handsome, refined and yet mobile Corridor NYC Stretch Blazer. Handcrafted in the Big Apple, it’s a one-of-a-kind men’s blazer to wear to close out summer.
Frank And Oak
Craighill Wide Wall Pocket — $32

Craighill

A neat way to store small goods and everyday essentials.

The Craighill Wide Wall Pocket is at once a neat bit of craftsmanship and also something that’s so simple … it’s as if someone should have thought of it sooner.  Cross another item off in your search for stylish men’s home goods.

Wally Walker Piuma Sneakers in Navy OR Stone — $109.98

Wally Walker sneakers

Yes, more sneakers. But these ones blend unique style with affordability.

A pair of stylish, classic sneakers in multiple colorways being offered for a little bit more than $100? Too good to be true. Not so with these crisp, simple Wally Walker Piuma Sneakers.
Greats

American Giant Premium Crew Tee — $36.50

 

American Giant

othing too fancy about a well-made T-shirt — just quality.

 Are you familiar with American Giant? They get a ton of credit for American-made gear ranging from henleys to nearly indestructible hoodies, but there’s no question that the brand’s simple, classic Premium Crew Tee gets the job done.

Florsheim

Hudson Made Morning Shift Body Wash — $28

Bespoke Post

Add this body wash to your daily routine — it’ll pay off.

Looking and feeling your best during the day often starts with the steps you take to get ready — and I’d wager that you’re going to want to include this crisp, masculine Hudson Made Morning Shift Body Wash in your routine.

Lum-Tec Combat B31 Bronze Automatic Watch — $899.99

An extraordinarily durable, tough watch.

Folks, believe me when I say this — Lum-Tec does NOT mess around when it comes to durable, rugged watches — and the Lum-Tec Combat B31 Bronze Automatic Watch is no exception. Yowza.

Bruer Cold Bruer Slow Drip Cold Brew Coffee Maker — $69.98

Bruer coffee

An innovative, dependable coffee maker.

Ahh, yes. Here’s the upgraded coffee maker we talked about. Specifically, this Bruer coffe maker specializes in cold brew — all the better to have around as these last hot summer days roll on by.

Mott and Bow Graham Denim Shirt in Medium Blue — $61.98

Mott and Bow

A crisp, quality denim shirt from Mott and Bow — tough to top.

We talked just a few weeks ago on this site about Mott and Bow denim shirts — and that’s why this handsome, refined-yet-casual and stylish denim shirt makes this version of The List.
AVI-8
This Is Ground Mini Tech Dopp Kit 2 in Cognac — $169

Pack this durable “dopp kit: with everything you need on the daily.

Hauling your everyday carry can be a tall order — but the handsome, pleasingly rugged and easy-to-use This Is Ground Mini Tech Dopp Kit makes your mission a whole heck of a lot easier.

Morning Culture La Playa Blanket — $34.98

Morning Culture La Playa Blanket

Don’t underestimate a blanket that feels cozy AND looks great.

Is there such a thing as a stylish blanket? Of course there is — the Morning Culture La Playa Blanket. For your next camping trip or bonfire, bring along the La Playa Blanket.

Abercrombie and Fitch Langdon Slim Jeans — $39

Clean, sharp and very affordable — that’s new denim from Abercrombie and Fitch.

Last but certainly not least — and because you need slim jeans to wear with your Mott and Bow denim shirt — we’re focusing on the latest, new-and-improved denim line from Style Guide favorites Abercrombie and Fitch. Affordable and easy to wear to your next rock concert.

OK, how’d we do today? I simply can’t get enough of, among other stylish men’s gear picks, the extremely rugged and durable Lum-Tec Combat B31 Bronze Automatic Watch. Let me know how we did in the comments below — and let me  know if you’ll be picking up a piece … or two … or three.

Happy shopping and thanks for reading!

-Beau

by Beau H.

Style Guide Recommends: Step into Classic Astorflex Footwear

Astorflex Greenflex Chukka Boots

Classic, stylish and easy-to-wear chukka boots via Astorflex — more than deserving of an entry in this ongoing series, right?

OK  — step on up and let’s get started with another edition of Style Guide Recommends, our monthly look into what you should be wearing, shopping, reading … the whole deal and then some. Sounds good, right? Our last feature told you all about why you should be shopping Bespoke Post — monthly purveyors of “Boxes of Awesome” and plenty of other excellent #menswear. Also an advertiser on this site, I would confidently recommend Bespoke Post either way. And today’s latest entry tells you all about Astorflex — Italian-made crafters of the classic suede boots to  buy now, and plenty more beyond that.  If you peruse the pages of this site from time to time, the brand should (hopefully) jump out at you. The brand makes all of its stylish men’s footwear with careful attention to detail in northern Italy, then sells ’em at excellent prices — as simple as that. I personally love my Astorflex suede chukka boots, and I break them out as often as I can (follow me on Instagram to see exactly how I style them).  With that being said… why are they the right brand for you, and why are they the focus of this week’s #menswear entry?  Allow me.

Astorflex

Sneakers that blend craftsmanship, sustainability and style in equal measure.

It can be all too easy to get sucked into the cycle of buying clothing that looks good just because it … well, looks good. The fine team at Astorflex goes beyond that, though. The brand makes it stylish footwear sustainably — something that’s tough to come by in the industry, it seems (looking at you, fast fashion retailers). That means that everything from the well-crafted Astorflex Softflex sneakers to durable Astorflex Chelsea boots are made with responsible construction and premium European leather that’s aged in an all-natural water, oak bark and powdered mimosa mix for 30 days. That creates a supple, soft suede that matches up perfectly with crepe rubber soles — the result is a classic pair of desert boots (or sneakers, or rugged Chelsea boots) that look great and feel incredible. And when I say incredible, I mean that Astorflex suede chukkas in particular are comfortable enough to be worn with just stylish no-show socks (finished off with slim light wash denim and a classic Oxford, I should add).  Too good to be true? Not in the slightest. And in addition to comfort and style, Astorflex also offers plenty of versatility throughout its line.

Here’s your next pair of suede chukkas — according to this author.

Take the Astorflex Greenflex— you’re getting a casual and easygoing suede chukka, a perfect multi-season boot. It’s ready to team with everything from a rugged short-sleeve henley and faded dark denim in the spring and summer to a slim topcoat and perhaps wool trousers in the fall or early winter months (certainly, before the first polar vortex hits). And if you’re more of a sneakerhead, look no further than the finely crafted, sharp and visually interesting Astorflex Softflex sneaker. This one sneaker that takes the principles of time-honored footwear and applies it to a silhouette that could work with light wash denim and a classic pocket tee or your new favorite Oxford and slim chino shorts.

Astorflex Bootflex

A well-made, tough pair of Astorflex boots — ready for just about anything.

And lest we forget, the brand also introduced the rugged, tough and wearable Astorflex Bootflex, a lace-up boot that applies that same quality craftsmanship and versatile style. Wear the Astorflex Bootflex with everything from tobacco-colored cotton chinos in the early fall to grey denim in the spring — they’ll work in equal measure for a weekend coffee date or your next music festival.  Last but certainly not least, it’s imperative that you keep the Astorflex Bitflex Chelsea Boot in mind as you consider potential wardrobe upgrades.  Another comfortable and surprisingly lightweight boot, these sleek, stylish Chelsea boots would do well with dark black denim as you figure out how to dress for a rock concert, and they’ll add a bit of edge to a crisp white Oxford and grey cotton chinos in a spring work week ensemble. How’s that for one brand that can do it all? Definitely not bad.

Timex

So, to recap. It can be tough to find a brand that does it all — from blending sustainability and style to crafting well-made, versatile silhouettes, Astorflex hits the nail on the head. The brand’s craftsmanship is apparent, and it starts with that premium European leather and attention to detail. And the resulting styles? Excellent and nearly impossible not to wear well.  Try the Astorflex Bootflex out with everything from grey selvedge denim and a blue Oxford to dark denim and a tough henley. Or, pair the more laidback Astorflex Softflex sneaker with your favorite shorts come summer time. The rest of the year, I’d step into the Astorflex Greenflex or a dependable pair of Astorflex Chelsea boots. Again, keep in mind that the brand is offering up all of this at great prices — starting at $145 and topping out at $190. Hopefully, you see now why they made our Style Guide Recommends series — agreed? Good deal.

Let me know what you think of the brand in the comments section below, or follow me on Twitter for daily style dispatches.

Thanks for reading!

Timex

by Beau H.

#OOTD: Here’s The Rugged Henley to Wear This Summer

If there’s one item I reach for more consistently than any other — no matter the season — it’s got to be a rugged men’s henley. Yes indeed, in the high heat of summer (the perfect time for a short-sleeve henley) and the chilling depths of winter (hello, slim long-sleeve henley), it’s simply an easy-to-wear, effective and stylish choice. But you knew that, right? After all, we talked this spring about how to upgrade your henley. There’s no question that it can easily layer under your favorite summer blazer or be worn on its own — crucially. And today’s all-new, hyper-stylish #OOTD here on The Style Guide covers perhaps the best short-sleeve henley to buy now — or at least, consider buying. And if you read the blog frequently — and shop the hallowed halls of Style Guide friend Huckberry — you should know the brand that makes it: The inimitable folks at Flint and Tinder.

As it were, the centerpiece of today’s outfit is the Flint and Tinder Supima AirKnit Henley, done up in comfortable, breathable fabric with a modern fit. The rest of this ensemble has all the trappings of a rugged, tough outfit that someone like, say, noted henley wearer Mr. Daniel Craig might enjoy wearing.  At any rate, I hope you’re excited to check out some slim dark blue denim, classic men’s boots and a few other hard-wearing touches — including a rugged casual watch. If I were you, I’d wear this outfit out to your next brew pub crawl or even a quick day trip out to the country. And it’s even got a couple pieces — like a stylish everyday backpack — that might get you from point A to point B in many a situation. I don’t want to ruin all the fun, though. Read on below and let me know how you like these #menswear picks!

Rugged men's henley

Take your (new) favorite rugged henley and layer it with a crisp bomber jacket, dark denim and tough boots — wear it now sans jacket, and keep this look handy come fall.

The Henley: Flint and Tinder Supima AirKnit Henley, $55 — First things first: Don’t be alarmed by the use of black here! This Flint and Tinder henley is crisp and slimming, and gents like Daniel Craig  make frequent use of black tees on their own.

The Bomber: Taylor Stitch Bomber Jacket in Charcoal, $188 — If you know Taylor Stitch, you know that they excel at tough, rugged and yet wearable pieces — this Taylor Stitch bomber jacket works for cool summer evenings and chillier fall days in equal measure.

The Denim: Abercrombie & Fitch Langdon Slim Coolmax Jeans, $88 — A&F, a favorite of The Style Guide, is back with a revamped denim line featuring revamped fits — the Langdon is slim, classic and wearble in August thanks to Coolmax technology.

The Belt: Sturdy Brothers Everyday Belt in Chestnut, $80 — Lest you think accessories don’t matter … think again. The folks at Sturdy Brothers make a heritage-quality belt that happens to mesh perfectly with this look.

The Boots: Astorflex Bootflex in Dark Khaki, $190 — Quality lace-up boots made with sustainable style in mind for under $200? That’s what you get with the surprisingly lightweight Astorflex Bootflex.

(Not Pictured) The Socks: Teva Benny Gold Socks (Limited Edition), $12 — Space can be limited in our #OOTD series, but socks that offer up a pop of pleasingly bright blue should pair well with the A&F dark blue denim.

The Watch: Lum-Tec Combat B35 Automatic Watch, $799.98 — You might say this rugged Lum-Tec watch is the grandaddy of them all. Beastly looks, excellent styling potential, rugged vibes, a handsome leather strap … the  Lum-Tec Combat B35 belongs on any wish list of the best men’s gear.

The Backpack: Topo Designs Klettersack, $188 — Don’t get me wrong, I love a stylish messenger bag as much as the next guy. But if you want a grab-and-go bag for a day trip or a bar crawl — particularly when paired with a rugged menswear ensemble — the Topo Designs Klettersack could be your best bet.

The Sunscreen: Salt & Stone Sunscreen (SPF 30) , $17.99 — Sunscreen is one of those things that’s likely the last item tossed in any bag — with Salt & Stone‘s crisp design (and important functionality!), you won’t forget it again.

Have you given any thought as to where you might take this outfit? It can go just about anywhere — an upstate day trip, a trip to the farmer’s market and your local park, an afternoon at your favorite watering hole … and I’d wager it’s all because of the rugged versatility of the Flint and Tinder henley shown here. And because it can go anywhere, it’s important you grab a similarly tough bag. For instance: Take the Topo Designs Klettersack and fill it with essentials like the Taylor Stitch Bomber Jacket and much-needed Salt & Stone sunscreen. And the best part is that you can easily complement your Flint and Tinder henley with other rugged basics, from dark denim to the crisp, stylish Astorflex Bootflex. What you’ve got on your wrist is equally important — my favorite part of this ensemble might be the Lum-Tec Combat B35. And if you read this blog, you know that the details make the difference — start with a heritage-quality belt and go from there.

Let me know: What do you think of this rugged #OOTD? Drop a line in the comments!

Thanks so much for reading,

-Beau