Style Pick of the Week: Bespoke Post Carry Box

From a slim wallet to a stylish pen, the Bespoke Post Carry Box has the early fall essentials you need to stay organized.

Your everyday carry essentials are perhaps no more important than at the start of a new menswear season — like early fall. We’ve been talking for weeks here on The Style Guide about transitional men’s style essentials to keep you looking sharp in spite of the changing weather — that’s where the always-handy Bespoke Post Boxes come into play. In short: Bespoke Post packages up menswear essentials and delivers ’em to you for one low price via its subscription service. Which brings me to the functional, truly excellent Bespoke Post Carry Box.  What’s in store for you if you pick up this well-designed package of menswear goodies? Quite a lot, my friend. From the crisp and clean Line of Trade Slim Wallet (with room for up to 15 cards!) to the Fisher Bullet Space Pen, the Carry Box is packed full of those small, thoughtfully made touches you didn’t know you needed (yet). Take the Gerber Shard Tool — a pocket-sized multi-tool that can be had (along with the Space Pen and the Line of Trade Slim Wallet) for just $45 when you sign up to join Bespoke PostHow’s that for a heck of a deal to start a new menswear season? Bingo.

SHOP: Bespoke Post Carry Box

SIGN UP: Join Bespoke Post 

Three refined, durable and great-looking everyday essentials in one agreeable package.

Now, you might be wondering why the heck you’d need a new leather wallet or a new pen, or a new multi-tool, but the answer comes back to the fact that organization and attention to detail — from the ground up — really can shape a menswear ensemble. That is to say, the Bespoke Post Carry Box can be the perfect finishing touch if you’ve got your other men’s style essentials on lock. Whether you’re heading to a rock concert or schlepping your gear to a day at the office, the stylish and very well-priced Bespoke Post Carry Box can help you keep everything straight. And these goods aren’t just any old everyday carry pieces, either — the Fischer Space Pen is an investment-level writing utensil all on its own, while the handsome Line of Trade Slim Wallet comes in multiple refined leather options for maximum versatility. Each piece of the Bespoke Post Carry Box truly can be used every single day, and they’ll get better with age (yes, even the Gerber Shard Tool). And again, the Bespoke Post Carry Box is available for under $50 when you sign up to join Bespoke Post — what’s not to love about that? If I were you, I’d be all in.

SHOP: Bespoke Post Carry Box

SIGN UP: Join Bespoke Post 

Style Pick of the Week: Ebbets Field Flannels Bespoke Post Cap

A unique way to upgrade your outfit — throw on a cool, vintage-inspired hat.

Since when you do need a new ballcap? Since right about now, I’d wager. A ballcap is a somewhat underrated style move in the menswear world — and not everyone is a fan of wearing caps. Bear with me, though. When done right, the humble ballcap can add visual interest and even provide a bit of a talking point for your outfit (seriously, people love cool hats). So, which hat to pick up? Well, the Ebbets Field Flannels Bespoke Post Cap is the ballcap you didn’t know you needed, complete with throwback style points and an air of vintage cool. Ebbets Field Flannels has experienced a resurgence in recent years, resulting in gear that nods to the past and looks great in the present — kind of like your other favorite men’s style essentials (I.e. the classic chambray shirt). It’s also just the right time to break out a stylish vintage-inspired ballcap like this one, provided it’s not a blizzard out there. Yes indeed, the finely crafted Ebbets Field Flannels hat is the right topper for your next winter weekend ensemble — even outside of the work week, we know that the small style details count in every single ensemble. The Ebbets Field Flannels Bespoke Post Cap is also a one-of-a-kind offering, made exclusively for our pals at Bespoke Post to mark the site’s six-year anniversary (hence the use of the felt “B”). And the specs are to be applauded, from the tonal stitching to the hand-crafted construction and that distinctly cool feeling you get from snagging something that’s made in America.

A leather back fastener and nickel pull tab are a departure from regular athletic ballcaps.

Seriously, if you haven’t considered throwing on a ballcap the next time you head out to grab a weekend coffee, run errands or head to Sunday brunch, you can ease into it the right way. The Ebbets Field Flannels Bespoke Post Cap certainly checks off all the boxes — it’s low-key, it’s easy to style and it features much cooler design touches than a regular athletic logo ballcap. The Ebbets Field Flannels Bespoke Post Cap is the type of cap to throw on with a casual crewneck sweater, rugged moc toe boots and perfectly faded denim as you head out for a casual evening. It’ll also work nicely as a travel cap, offering protection from the elements and a bit of shade from the sun if you’re the type to head out on day hikes. No matter what casual ensemble floats your boat, this cap can likely pair up with it. And it just makes sense to round out your wardrobe with a casual, cool hat like this Ebbets Field Flannels ballcap — after all, why not cover all your bases in the menswear playing field?

Are you going to be picking up the Ebbets Field Flannels Bespoke Post Cap? And how will you be styling it? 

See Now, Buy Now: The Bespoke Post Moment Box Will Keep You On Time This Season

A stylish watch and an essential daily organization notebook — that’s about all you need for the holiday season, right?

What exactly do you get the guy who has everything this holiday season? Particularly if he’s a fan of stylish leather watches galore? Why, you get him the Bespoke Post Moment Box. The sharp, classic Moment Box is the latest addition to our See Now, Buy Now series, and I’ve got good news: It’s the perfect #menswear wish list item for yourself, too. Like other great Bespoke Post boxes — surely among the best subscription boxes for men — the Moment Box packs a ton into one stylish, easy-to-ship and easy-to-gift package. You, or the lucky recipient of the Bespoke Post Moment Box, gets one stylish Breda leather watch, a functional, effective and crisp watch that’s versatile enough for casual weekend style and more than able to help you suit up this winter. And what’s more important than staying on time in style for the holidays this season? Not much. The right watch goes with anything, and that’s more than enough reason to make the Moment Box your next purchase from Bespoke Post. Oh, and the kicker? Well, if you’re not familiar with the extremely well-curated men’s lifestyle site, know that when you sign up for Bespoke Post, you can get the Bespoke Post Moment Box for just $45. Yep, that’s a heck of a deal.

Plus, the Bespoke Post Moment Box is handy for another reason. In addition to your pick of four essential strap-and-dial combinations, the Moment Box also comes with a handy, simply titled Task Organizer. It’s a small, crisply designed notebooks with plenty of room for to-do lists, your own men’s style holiday wish list and of course, your list of other holiday shopping to get done (Editor’s note: Check out my guide to the best gifts for women this year in the meantime). OK, are you still with me? That’s a stylish leather watch, plus a handy  everyday carry essential, all for the low price of $45 … who’s sold? Ehh? Someone’s bound to be real happy opening this box come Christmas Day … even if that someone happens to be you.

Is the  Bespoke Post Moment Box going to make its way into the hands of the men’s style fan in your life this Christmas? Let me know on The Style Guide Facebook page! 

 

Style Pick of the Week: Grayers Bayswater Fleece

A new fall and winter layer from a brand that nails the balance between casual and classy style.

My dear friends, it’s time for another Style Pick of the Week — are you as excited as I am? Let’s get pumped. If you’ve checked your calendar as of late, perhaps you were as shocked as I was to see that it’s … NOVEMBER. Seriously — where did the fall season go? That means we’re transitioning to colder temperatures and dressing in rugged fall style essentials all the way. And that means … well, that the Grayers Bayswater Fleece is going to be a new go-to layering move for you. The Bayswater Fleece is the type of modern update to a classic piece that Grayers does so well — slightly preppy, slightly classic and very easily wearable no matter how you style it. The brand draws inspiration from a mix of Americana and British styles, named for the type of pants that became so popular in Britain decades ago. As it were, the Bayswater Fleece is the type of piece that would work on a chilly British morning, maybe as you traipse across your country estate. But I digress. Made from heathered French terry twill fleece, the Grayers Bayswater Fleece is a perfect shirt for casual weekend style — part shirt, part jacket, that is. With two hand warmer pockets and two chest button pockets, it’s the sort of layer you can toss on with ease atop a slim striped henley or a classic chambray shirt — that’s about all you can ask for.

An easygoing silhouette that’s ideal for throwing on with the simplest of looks.

If you’ve been looking for an in-between layer to throw on for a casual stroll through your favorite park or a quick farmer’s market trip, the Bayswater Fleece is it. And if you want a shirt-jacket that you can wear to travel in comfort and style, the Bayswater Fleece is a winner in that regard, too. It adds instant polish to even the simplest of looks, like a classic men’s T-shirt or a vintage-inspired flannel shirt. And if you feel like layering up to take on a chilly fall or winter day? The Grayers Bayswater Fleece fits right in with a quilted field jacket and slim chinos (don’t forget rugged leather boots, either). And on top of its easy-to-wear styling potential, small design touches like those chest pockets and hand warmer pockets provide ample space for all your everyday carry essentials — don’t underestimate the importance of that. So, have you come around to the idea of grabbing the Grayers Bayswater Fleece for seasonal layering? Some pieces just make so much sense that it’s tricky not to buy them — right? Oh, and the good news is that it comes in under $100 via Bespoke Post. Add that to the list of positives, too. Yes indeed, if I were you… I’d make the Grayers Bayswater Fleece my next purchase. Want to let me know what you think of this piece? Hit me up on Twitter.

As always — thanks for reading!

-Beau

Style Pick of the Week: Anonymousism Wool Herringbone Crew Socks

Well-made, crisply designed socks that’ll work with tailored or casual outfits — just what you need from Anonymousism.

Is this post just about … socks? Only socks? Well, bear with me here, because these certainly are stylish men’s socks. As we often bring up at The Style Guide, the little details make a difference in your ensembles, from fit and comfort to sharp looks. And if you find a stylish accessory that you love and that happens to be well-made — like the Anonymousism Wool Herringbone Crew Socks seen here — I’d urge you to stock up as much as you can. When building outfits from the ground up, sharply designed socks shouldn’t be an afterthought — that much is true. They can add a bit of visual interest to slim charcoal trousers, they can provide some needed insulation when worn with rugged leather boots, and great-looking men’s socks can even blend in seamlessly with dressier ensembles (the Wool Herringbone Crew Socks would work nicely with a navy worsted wool suit). So, we’ve got all that down pat. What’s the upside to buying pricier Anonymousism socks? Read on, because you’re going to like what you see. Anonymousism is stocked at retailers from J. Crew to Bespoke Post, providing the kind of classic yet visually striking patterns that can work as a complement to so many fall outfits. And the kicker (pun intended) when it comes to Anonymousism socks? They’re made with excellent materials, folks.

Need a little more pattern in your life? These Jacquard Crew Socks from Anonymousism ought to do the trick.

And if you like what you see when it comes to the Wool Herringbone Crew Socks, you’ll assuredly like other, more pattern-friendly options from the Anonymousism line, like the Jacquard Crew Socks seen above. Whichever pair you pick, you’re getting Japanese-made quality and the type of durability you’d expect for the price tag — most Anonymousism socks will set you back upwards of $20. Here’s the good news with the stylish Wool Herringbone Crew Socks, though: When you sign up for Bespoke Post, you can pick ’em up at the discounted price of $18. Every buck counts, right? Certainly, the Wool Herringbone Crew Socks are nearly the perfect fall and winter sock. If that sounds silly to say, well, the herringbone pattern is a cold weather staple across everything from shirting to blazers, so these Anonymousism socks are going to look refined and on-trend peeking out from beneath your favorite pair of blue denim and some classic suede chukka boots. What’s more, these Anonymousism socks are going to last you quite a long time — I’ve been mighty pleased with the durability of my pairs, and that’s good news. Plus, they’ll also provide crucial versatility with plenty of outfits. Tan chinos and a white Oxford? Add stylish men’s dress shoes and Anonymousism socks. Black denim and a heather grey crewneck sweatshirt? Yes sir, the Wool Herringbone Crew Socks are a go-to accessory. Again, that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Oh, and don’t forget to sign up for Bespoke Post to get that discount (wink, nudge). Let me know via The Style Guide Facebook page if you plan on investing in a pair  … or two … or three of Anonymousism socks this season.

Online Shopping Picks: Shop The Best Men’s Fall Shirts Right Now

In terms of fall style essentials, there are some categories you need to take care of before it gets too late. And that’s why we’re diving into the best men’s fall shirts today on The Style Guide — and these picks aren’t the same ones that are going to get you through spring and summer, that much is true. We’re talking rugged, tough shirts with some heft — pieces like the Taylor Stitch Utility Shirt — and essential, everyday shirts like a classic Filson flannel shirt. But we’ll get to all of that in a second. Just as with the best men’s boots for fall, picking out a stylish and rugged fall shirt comes down to the details — the fit, the fabric and the mix of quality for the price. Look for comfortable, warm fabrics that are easy to layer over other seasonal pieces, like a striped henley or an American-made Oxford. And look for richer colors in darker, earthy tones, which should pair up nicely with everything from classic suede chukkas to broken-in leather boots. That’s just the start of today’s essential rundown, though. Check out my picks below, chime in on Twitter with your thoughts and leave any questions in the comments section below! Cheers.

#1. Portuguese Flannel Briteiro Shirt — $125

A well-made, tailored flannel shirt for the office and for the weekend.

Does anything scream fall quite like a classic flannel shirt? Portuguese Flannel has painstakingly crafted the Briteiro Shirt with premium quality and premium fabrication — no scratchy flannel here. And the Briteiro Shirt also has a pleasingly tailored look — that means you can wear it with slim tan chinos and stylish men’s dress shoes to the office just as easily as you can pair it with tan leather boots and black denim for a unique bar-going outfit.  Add a rugged dive watch, and you’re set for anywhere your weekend takes you.

#2. Relwen Tweed Snap CPO — $248

Is it a shirt that’s also a jacket, or a jacket that’s a shirt? Either way, Relwen has done a great job with this new fall essential.

Part of the beauty of fall revolves around throwing on rugged, versatile layers — like the Relwen Tweed Snap CPO. Part shirt, part jacket, the Tweed Snap CPO from Relwen is crafted with a strong silhouette and warm fabric. The Tweed Snap CPO can certainly pull double duty; throw it on over your favorite chambray shirt to take a weekend stroll through the park, or team the Tweed Snap CPO with a striped henley to head to a bonfire or a beer tasting. It’s a ready-made accessory to pieces like classic blue denim and tough leather boots, too.

#3. Filson Vintage Flannel Work Shirt in Black and Cream — $145

A classic, work-ready offering from a company that’s made rugged gear for generations.

If ever there was a company that defined the classic flannel shirt, it might just be Filson. The brand’s Vintage Flannel Work Shirt gets all the details right, from the unique black-and-cream check combo to the sturdy, durable fabric. The Vintage Flannel Work Shirt is certainly an investment-worthy piece, the type of shirt your dad might have worn (or still wears) to do yard work on chilly fall days. The good news is, the Filson Vintage Flannel Work Shirt will serve you just as well for work or play (I like it best to wear to a tailgate atop a stylish team T-shirt).

#4. Mollusk Surf Shop One-Pocket Shirt in Tobacco Plaid — $110

A rich, well-crafted fall shirt from Mollusk Surf Shop.

Fall is all about welcoming richer colors into your wardrobe, from dusty, earthy hues to the classically fall vibes of the Mollusk Surf Shop One-Pocket Shirt. I know I’m a fan. The Tobacco Plaid color of this stylish fall shirt hits the nail on the head. The One-Pocket Shirt should team up nicely with casual, faded American-made denim and a garment-dyed crewneck tee, and you should also feel free to layer this Mollusk Surf Shop shirt with a classic crewneck sweater for a weekend brunch outing.

#5. Taylor Stitch Utility Shirt — $148

Here’s your next fall shirt — made for rugged fall adventures, yard work, tailgates … you name it.

As first seen in this site’s See Now Buy Now series, the Taylor Stitch Utility Shirt is exactly the type of shirt we’re talking about when we explore rugged fall shirting. Made in a cool Moss Merino Herringbone fabric, this rugged fall shirt is practically made for layering with a Taylor Stitch henley and inky blue selvedge denim. You can — and should — wear it for getting out and doing yard work, going on a day hike or heading to a fall bonfire. The Taylor Stitch Utility Shirt is that versatile.

#6. Iron and Resin Ridge Shirt in Tan — $148

Iron and Resin

A distinctly cool, stylish shirt from a brand that normally makes gear for the open road.

Iron and Resin is perhaps best known for its moto-inspired gear, but the brand also makes stylish off-duty and off-road gear with the best of ‘em, like the Ridge Shirt. The Iron and Resin Ridge Shirt features a rich seasonal color scheme that works with charcoal trousers and a navy herringbone blazer for your 9-to-5. Make no mistake though, the Iron and Resin Ridge Shirt might team best with slim black denim and stylish leather Chelsea boots for grabbing a weekend brew  … or four.

#7. Abercrombie & Fitch Cotton Herringbone Shirt — $58

Abercrombie & Fitch

A vintage-inspired shirt with cool texture and cool design details.

Want an affordable option in terms of stylish fall shirting? Abercrombie & Fitch, a brand that’s constantly on the up-and-up in terms of modern takes on classic styles, can help with that. Just as with the Abercrombie & Fitch Chamois Shirt, the Cotton Herringbone Shirt is a rugged fall layering essential, finished in a neat fall fabric and set apart thanks to design details like a button chest pocket. Wear this shirt with olive chinos and tan suede chukkas to head to a fall beer festival.

#8. Life/After/Denim Academy Shirt in Heather Grey — $138

A crisp shirt that works for both casual and more tailored situations.

The Academy Shirt from Life/After/Denim, like other options on this list of the best men’s fall shirts, certainly isn’t all that cheap. But as you might have seen in our #OOTD on how to wear a denim jacket this fall, the Life/After/Denim Academy Shirt can team with outfits both casual and more tailored. Feel free to team it with a navy herringbone blazer and dark denim for classic business casual style, and keep this shirt handy to head to a weekend house party alongside grey selvedge denim.

That’ll wrap up our list of the best men’s fall shirts. It’s certainly not comprehensive of every single brand you could pick up, but for my money’s worth, there are some excellent picks on this list when it comes to rugged fall shirts. My personal favorite might be the durable, versatile Taylor Stitch Utility Shirt, fit for weekend strolls and rock concerts alike. Of course, the Life/After/Denim Academy Shirt packs a crisp punch in terms of business casual style, as does the Abercrombie & Fitch Cotton Herringbone Shirt. And if it’s laidback-yet-classic fall style you want? Reach for the Filson Vintage Flannel Work Shirt or the equally durable Iron and Resin Ridge Shirt. For wearing with your favorite pair of denim on the weekends, the Mollusk Surf Shop One-Pocket Shirt should get the job done nicely, too. Perhaps you prefer your fall shirting with a bit of tailored style? That’s where the Portuguese Flannel Briteiro Shirt comes into play — you could even rock that shirt with a tailored worsted wool suit and stylish dress shoes. But I’ll leave the styling up to you. Let me know in the comments if you’re adding to your wardrobe rotation this season!

Which of the above stylish men’s shirts are you picking up? To see how I’m styling my favorite fall shirts, head to Instagram.

Thanks for reading!

-Beau

#OOTD: Upgrade Your Casual Weekend Style for Fall

Alright, you know the drill. We’re back at it with another #OOTD for the weekend and beyond this fall. You know the situation — perhaps you had a late Friday or Saturday night, yet weekend brunch or coffee is calling your name. What are you going to wear? The answer, my friend: Casual weekend style that incorporates essential fall layers, a rugged overshirt, a stylish slim henley and …. wait for it … tailored sweatpants that actually look great. Truly! It’s all about taking pieces you already have in your closet, upgrading their fabrics, dialing in the fit and focusing on the details — those moves are going to set you apart from folks who’ve just rolled out of bed. And if you’ve been soft on wearing tailored sweatpants out of your apartment or house, know that the pair as seen in today’s #OOTD is a lot better than any you might have had in high school or college. So, it’s easier than you think to look great on the weekend … even when you might not feel that great. Have an iced coffee and a Bloody Mary for me,  while you’re at it. We’ll see you out there — chime in on Twitter or in the comments with your thoughts on this #menswear ensemble. Cheers!

Start with a rugged overshirt and add other casual, laidback pieces to get weekend style right.

The Overshirt: Finisterre Petrichor Overshirt, $76.98 — Start things out the right way — leave the old hoodie at home and throw on a versatile, rugged overshirt from Finisterre — all the better for weekend coffee or brunch.

The Henley: Taylor Stitch Mercerized Merino Henley, $98 (When Signing Up for Bespoke Post— If you don’t yet have a rugged fall henley in your rotation, pick up this Taylor Stitch henley — far better than an old T-shirt.

The Sweatpants: Muttonhead Sweat Pants in Heather Navy , $112 —  Yes, that’s right. Here are the stylish sweatpants we talked about. A tailored silhouette and the pleasing heather navy color of these Muttonhead sweatpants makes ’em a great, easygoing weekend style move.

The Sneakers: SeaVees Legend Cordies Varsity Sneakers in Navy, $67.98 — Leave the logo sneakers at home – the Legend Cordies Varsity Sneakers are a seriously cool pair of stylish fall sneakers from SeaVees.

The Socks: Anonymousism 5-Color Mix Crew Sock in Black, $22 — As we always say here at The Style Guide, don’t overlook small details like stylish socks. These understated Anonymousism socks are a sharp weekend upgrade.

The Watch: Timex Waterbury Watch in Red Wing Leather, $139 — Stay on time for weekend brunch with a classic Timex watch — the definition of an affordable leather watch to add to your weekend wardrobe.

The Grooming Essential: The Rich + Clean New Standard Face Wash, $18 (When Signing Up for Bespoke Post— Keeping your grooming game on point is all the more important if your bar crawl went a little long. The New Standard Face Wash will give you a bit of pep in your step.

The Ballcap: Ebbets Field Flannels x Bespoke Post “B” Baseball Cap, $38 — Available exclusively at Bespoke Post, this stylish ballcap is an understated, simple way to stick with casual weekend style — oh, and it saves you the trouble of styling your ‘do.

OK — ready for weekend brunch yet? Getting around in style even on a casual fall weekend starts with picking the right laidback pieces, like the rugged-yet-easily-wearable Finisterre Petrichor Overshirt  and a slim Taylor Stitch henley. And when you reach for surprisingly stylish sweatpants, your weekend is going to get started on the right foot — it’s as easy as dialing in the fit and fabric, folks. Plus, the Legend Cordies Varsity Sneakers from SeaVees are a heck of a cool pair of casual sneakers to step out wearing on the weekend — and the neat texture and design works well with a rugged Timex watch for a bit of fall-friendly visual interest.  When you cap off the whole ensemble — literally — with a stylish Ebbets Field Flannels ballcap and small details like stylish Anonymous-ism socks — you’re going to be set for a much-needed brunch. That’s all we’ve got today, my friends. Let me know via The Style Guide Facebook page if you’re a fan of this look!

Thanks for reading,

-Beau

Style Pick of the Week: Bespoke Post Wander Box

From a helpful guide book to a nifty iPhone camera lens, this is the gear you need to travel with this fall. Image courtesy of Bespoke Post.

We’re taking a slight departure from our usual #menswear focus on today’s Style Pick of the Week — just a slight (if literal) departure. Because, let’s be real — who among us doesn’t love the thrill of adventure and the excitement of exploring somewhere new? For travel lovers and explorers alike the Bespoke Post Wander Box is a prime choice as this week’s Style Pick– like other favorites on the blog, it’s an all-in-one offering in terms of versatility and dependability. And if you’re looking for a bit of fall travel style, I’d urge you to pick up the Wander Box. Without a doubt, the Wander Box from Bespoke Post has everything you need to explore a new locale — with a few handy extras thrown in. The utility of the Wander Boxavailable for just $45 when you sign up for Bespoke Post– starts with the essential Wildsam Field Guide.


These mini-encyclopedias fit easily in a bag or a coat packet and are jam-packed with all kinds of helpful info on a wide range of cities. The guides cover everywhere from San Francisco to Brooklyn to Nashville and Austin –it’s your call. And when I say jam-packed, I mean jam-packed. From insights on gourmet eats and craft beverages to a full set of personal essays and reflections on specific cities, each Field Guide is entirely customized by city — and again, they’re packed full of essential info. Heck, I used my Wildsam Field Guide on a fall trip to Nashville and absolutely loved the cool spots it turned up, from coffee to menswear. So, that’s one major benefit of the Bespoke Post Wander Box  — and the rest of the goods? They’re just as stellar.

Bespoke Post Wander Box

Using my Wildsam Field Guide to get around Nashville in style — this could be you! Or not. But it could be!

It’s the little details in every Bespoke Post box that make the difference, and the Wander Box gets those right, too. Namely, you get your pick of ebony or bamboo headphones from LSTN Sound Co. — crystal-clear sound quality and understated style, to boot. What’s more,  these headphones feature no-rub functionality (no twisted cords here), and they also come with an in-line microphone to take calls. Not bad, ehh? And the Wander Box doesn’t stop there — no sir. It’s complete with a Universal Smartphone Fisheye Lens, a  wide-angle smartphone camera attachment that should up your photo quality significantly. That’a heck of a deal for just $45 — can’t believe it? Neither could I when saw the price tag. So, to recap the Wander Box — you get a brand-new camera attachment to capture the perfect Instagram shot, plus an amazing field guide to help you explore cool cities like Nashville … plus an excellent set of stylish headphones. That’s all too good to be true, yes? Well, Bespoke Post makes it a reality. Just pick your city, pick up the Wander Box  and get planning.

Will you be picking up the Wander Box  from Bespoke Post before you hit the road this season?  Let me know on Twitter

Thanks for reading!

-Beau

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

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