Tag / bespoke post

by Beau H.

#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

by Beau H.

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 Box — available 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’s 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

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.

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.

Music City Menswear: Exploring Nashville in Style

Taking in a relaxing Nashville Saturday at Barista Parlor. Wearing my new Original Penguin Bedford Cord 5-Pocket Pants and a special pair of 125th Anniversary Wingtip Boots from Florsheim!

There are certain places that I’ve put on my growing personal travel bucket list in recent years — places that constantly pull me away from New York as much as I love it. And if you read The Style Guide regularly, you know that I love to get out and about in style, from exploring Brooklyn to hopping on a flight to Chicago and Lollapalooza 2017 recently. When the chance came up to take a weekend trip to Nashville, a city that’s as hyped as any for any its blend of live music, culinary delights and a cool atmosphere, I jumped on it. My parents have loved Nashville for years, so it’s  definitely been on my radar — but as I started planning out my fall travel style earlier this year, I knew I wanted to pack in as much as possible when it came to seeing the Music City. That meant this weekend was filled with #menswear, craft beer and of course, live music — namely, a high-energy, passion-packed show from Young the Giant, supported by Cold War Kids and Joywave! Of course, if you follow me on Instagram you’re familiar with my trip — and if not, come along for the ride.

The right mix of sharp, versatile travel gear for getting from NYC to Nashville.

Getting to Nashville is no easy feat — as it were, I had to catch a very early flight out of NYC, but that left me with nearly a full day in the Music City. How did I dress to go from the plane to my airBNB and beyond? Funny you should ask. I did my best at dressing to travel in style, while also keeping in mind the fact that I had to dress for a rock concert later — a tricky balance. For versatile layering and crisp style,  I threw on a classic navy Oxford from Mott and Bow, a recent introduction to the brand’s line. The classic Oxford shirt meshed well with my new Abercrombie and Fitch denim, built with stretch for comfort and finished in a slightly faded shade of black. On the footwear front, my Florsheim Forward Lo Sneakers in a handsome shade of brown leather offset the combo nicely — I’ve found these sneakers work quite well for concerts and travel alike, as I also wore them trekking to see The Killers in New Jersey earlier this year. Of course, I had to take along other handy everyday carry essentials, including the always-essential Bespoke Post Vibes Box, featuring my LSTN Sound Co. Fillmore Headphones.

And for a full day of exploring Nashville — including a post-flight stop at the famed (and aptly named) Mas Tacos Por Favor — these sneakers proved similarly stylish. With striking yet subtly stylish design and durable construction, my Electric California Carroway Leather Watch worked for day-to-night style. Of course, I prepped for the show by plugging into my reliable Bespoke Post Vibes Box, featuring the eye-catching LSTN Sound Co. Fillmore Headphones. So, that was the gear I brought with me — and it helped me navigate Nashville stylishly and effectively. For what it’s worth, if you’ve got your own Nashville trip coming up, I can’t recommend the crisply designed, jam-packed Nashville Field Guide from Wildsam, full of interesting tidbits and useful information on hidden gems throughout the city.

Hanging out at the well-appointed imogene + willie on a lovely Nashville Friday. My Florsheim Forward Lo Lace-up Sneakers and Abercrombie & Fitch denim were perfect for getting around!

Nashville really is a city packed with something for everyone — it’s revered for its vibrant music scene, and it’s also full of craftsmen and women who put serious care into everything from excellent food to craft beer; my Wildsam Field Guide helped me figure that out in a hurry. With rugged dark denim, workwear-inspired basics and plenty of attention to detail throughout, imogene + willie is a terrific Nashville example of simple goods made very well — and the handsomely appointed storefront is a joy to explore in its own right.  And equally important — it’s close by to 12 South Taproom, a down-home bar with a great selection of tasty, refreshing beer. Speaking of craft beer: Hops and Crafts also stood out for its mix of industrial style and premium craft brews, plus gourmet bites. In short, it was a worthwhile pre-show stop!

Even with a full day exploring Nashville in the rearview mirror, I still had an amazing Friday night ahead. With its prime riverfront location and excellent sight lines, Ascend Amphitheater proved a stellar venue for a night of live music — it’s certainly not as revered as Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium, but it was still a treat to see three excellent bands throughout the night. Cold War Kids have long been a favorite, and I had the chance to see them debut their rollicking new album, “Love Is Mystical,” earlier this year in Brooklyn. It was absolutely a treat to see them play a longer show — recent classics like the joyous “Miracle Mile” mesh nicely with fresh hits like the album’s title track and of course, throwback cuts off 2006’s still-excellent “Robbers and Cowards.” They’re a band that’s worth seeing just for that album alone, and they certainly made their mark opening for Young the Giant (alongside Rochester, New York-based five-piece Joywave).

I had seen Young the Giant in New Haven earlier this year, and the band’s packed setlist proved alluring enough to see them again. Recent jams like “Silvertongue” and “Amerika” brought an energetic crowd to their feet just as easily as huge indie radio hits like “Cough Syrup” and “Apartment” — powerful tracks like  “Something to Believe In,” off last year’s “Home of the Strange” also helped set the tone early. This is a band with swagger, confidence and cool, eclectic style — in large part thanks to lead singer Sameer Gadhia’s voice and sharp fashion sense. Young the Giant has been on the road for a while in support of this albun, so they also sounded tight and crisp — a great band to watch in a big live setting, complete with a cold beer or two. That’s perhaps the best way to start a trip — at least, I think so. And the best part? My weekend trip gave me the chance to explore even more of the city Again, if you want to cover a ton of ground quickly and effectively, I’d urge you to pick up the Wildsam Nashville Field Guide.

The best gear for getting around Nashville in style — don’t you agree? The Wildsam Field Guide helped me see the city in style, too!

I always relish the chance to dress in casual weekend style — that’s where my Grayers Montreaux Windbreaker continues to come in handy.  From taking in live music at NYC’s Panorama 2017 to traveling to Chicago last month, this jacket can do it all — so it proved a crisp, classic layer atop my DSTLD Midnight Blue Denim Shirt, done up in a deep midnight blue and crafted from breathable cotton. Fall calls for a transition to more earthen, faded colors in terms of trousers, too. A new pair of tailored Original Penguin Bedford Cord 5-Pocket Pants offered go-anywhere style that helped me bounce from a crucial weekend kickstarter — coffee at the fantastic, industrially appointed CREMA — to a stop at rocker Jack White’s revered Third Man Records outpost. Of course, I kept on time through each stop with an old favorite, the durable Timex x Red Wing Waterbury Chrono — truly, the Timex Waterbury collection is perfect if you want a rugged watch fit for travel and exploration. If your next trip calls for lots of time spent on your feet, reach for versatile trousers in a fall-ready shade, then finish off your look with a pair of comfortable-yet-rugged boots, like Florsheim’s  125th Anniversary Wingtip Boots as seen above. 


My Saturday wasn’t done yet, though. Now that we’re into fall, I absolutely had to see my beloved Michigan State Spartans kick off another football Saturday — even away from my home base of Brooklyn, Nashville features quite a few loyal Spartan fans. Bar Louie in the Gulch offers everything you could want when it comes to taking in a game, from a fun crowd to delicious craft beer to monstrously good burgers like the Spiked Bulleit Bourbon Burger. Spartan fan or not, it’s tough to pass up a finely crafted beer and a good burger, right? That’s also where Pinewood Social came into play later on in the night. The cavernous location is a handsomely appointed cocktail bar/gourmet restaurant/work space/game center complete with a bowling alley and an outdoor pool — ideal for taking in the sights and sounds of Nashville after an MSU game. What more could you want on a Saturday night on the road? Not too much, folks.

Rugged picks for a Nashville Sunday, including new slim light wash denim from DSTLD, a rugged leather belt from Saddleback Leather and a handy dopp kit for travel, also from Saddleback Leather.

Sunday brought my Nashville trip to a close, but not before plenty of exploration in and around the city itself. Before leaving town, I absolutely knew I had to stop at a classic spot in the city — that’d be Bolton’s Spicy Chicken and Fish.  I turned my attention toward menswear next; that meant a stop at a favorite outpost, Billy Reid. With shops from Chicago to Charleston, Mr. Reid’s handsome, premium menswear embodies cool, versatile and breezy Southern style with a modern look and feel. As it were, that’s what I tried to do when it came to my Sunday travel style. Even casual outfits should start with classic footwear — my all-new CLAE Gregory Mid Sneakers featured a neat monochromatic color scheme and plenty of all-day comfort. They were an easygoing complement to my DSTLD Slim Light Wash Jeans — even though we’re getting into fall, there’s still plenty of time to break out your favorite slim light wash jeans, preferably alongside stylish sneakers and rugged accessories — my Saddleback Leather 4-Stitch Leather Belt was a key piece throughout the weekend and should break in quite nicely. Other essentials were in the mix, too — a stylish chambray shirt from JackThreads layered easily over a rugged short-sleeve henley from Abercrombie & Fitch. It was, unfortunately, time to head to the airport all too soon — I’m glad I dressed in comfort, though! When you’ve got a long flight ahead of you but still want to look great, reach for a classic pair of high-top leather sneakers — like the CLAE Gregory Mid seen above. 

If you’re heading to Nashville soon, well, I just can’t recommend the city enough. It’s packed with hidden gems, neat breweries, cool menswear, a terrific music scene and of course, something for every culinary taste. From live music to menswear to a dash of college football, this past weekend had it all — I’m thankful my Wildsam Nashville Field Guide helped me go off the beaten path a bit, too. It was a great trip to kick off what should be a great fall season — and as always, you can follow along with my travels here on the blog or on Instagram.  Let me know — are you hitting the road soon? Where are you headed?

Until the next trip — thanks for reading!

-Beau

by Beau H.

#OOTD: Wear This Black Denim Jacket for Early Fall

How are you prepping for fall? And what are we excited about when it comes to #menswear? For your Style Guide author, I’m personally excited about a return to rugged layering in particular — including a refresher on how to wear a black denim jacket. Taking slightly unexpected, edgy pieces and mixing them together is one of the small joys of the season — take, for instance, the Roark Revival denim jacket we’re talking about in today’s #OOTD. It’s got just enough cool design touches to set it apart from your typical denim jacket, from the unique chest pocket detailing to the faded black color. And crucially, a jacket like the Roark Revival HWY 41 Jacket is going to be the perfect way to step into fall. It makes for a great layer on chilly weekend days and week nights alike, and that edgy style is going to help you go everywhere from a rock concert to a bar crawl to a weekend coffee run. When paired up with other fall style essentials — including classic suede chukka boots and a rugged striped henley — you’re going to be able to take on everything from a weekend getaway to a casual date night out seriously. So, are you ready to learn about your new favorite denim jacket? Good. Then let’s go! Follow me on Instagram for more insider style tips, plus a dose of craft beer and live music.

Rugged Fall Style

A mix of edgy pieces — like the Roark Revival denim jacket — and classic offerings, like a rugged henley.

The Jacket: Roark Revival HWY 41 Denim Jacket, $79.98 — As discussed above, the affordably priced, well-crafted and uniquely edgy Roark Revival HWY 41 Jacket is the unexpected fall layering piece you didn’t know you needed — until now.

The Henley: Taylor Stitch Mercerized Merino Henley, $98 (When Signing Up for Bespoke Post) — When is it worth it to pay nearly $100 for a henley? When that rugged henley is made by Taylor Stitch.

The Pants: Original Penguin P55 Brushed Cotton 5-Pocket Pant, $89 — Want to shake things up from your typical rotation of slim blue denim  this fall? Reach for a pair of tailored cotton 5-pocket pants for a bit of high-low style.

The Boots: Hudson Shoes Corelli Suede Dip Dye Boots, $198 (When Signing Up for Bespoke Post)  — Want a pair of footwear that’s going to fit right in with the rock n’roll vibes of this ensemble? Suede chukka boots are going to be your best bet — Hudson Shoes knocked it out of the park with the Corelli Suede Dip Dye Boots.

The Socks: Arvin Goods Crew Socks (Three-pack), $30 — Sustainably made, understated socks are what Arvin Goods excels at making — these stylish crew socks fit the bill nicely.

The Belt: Sturdy Brothers Everyday Belt in Natural, $80 — Don’t forget about the small style details. Particularly when your outfit is packed with rugged basics, your belt should fall in that same category aesthetically. Sturdy Brothers gets it right with the Everyday Belt.

The Watch: Szanto Aviator Automatic Watch — $289 — Rugged good looks, tough durability and a subtly stylish design make the Szanto Aviator Automatic Watch the right timepiece to offset this outfit.

The Grooming Essential: Blind Barber 60 Proof Hair Wax, $18 — What if I told you for under $20, you could get a true men’s grooming essential to help complement this sharp look? Easy choice, right?

When the foundation of your outfit is the rugged, edgy and unique Roark Revival HWY 41 Jacket, it makes filling in the pieces around it pretty easy. And when those pieces happen to include a mix of high-low style essentials like brushed cotton pants and a rugged striped henley? Well, the only question now is where that outfit can take you.   Stylish, sharp footwear like the  Corelli Suede Dip Dye Boots are a great way to step into early fall thanks to their unique texture and versatility, while a tough timepiece like the Szanto Aviator Automatic Watch  is going to complement plenty of seasonally ready outfits. Remember to turn to durable, dependable brands like Sturdy Brothers to upgrade your accessories, and know that the little touches in terms of grooming (like using Baxter of California hair wax) are going to take your ensemble to the next level. So, what do you think of this #OOTD? Where would you wear the Roark Revival HWY 41 Jacket this fall? 

Thanks for reading, as always!

-Beau

by Beau H.

#OOTD: An Updated Way to Wear Your New Oxford Shirt

If there’s one shirting style that tends to come up time after time here at The Style Guide, it might be the classic Oxford shirt. From a made-in-America Oxford shirt to the handsome Line of Trade navy Oxford shirt you’re going to read about today, there’s not a garment that more consistently works in so many style situations for today’s modern man (that’d be you!). Hopefully, you’ve already got one of the best Oxford shirts for men in your close. And although we talked about how to wear an Oxford shirt for summer, we’re shaking it up a little bit today. The below #OOTD is one that harnesses the best of end-of-summer style and yet uses rugged accessories like a heritage-quality leather belt and a tough stainless steel dive watch to nod toward the fact that fall is slowly but surely approaching.  Are you ready? I’m getting there.

Truly, I think you’ll find that the classic Oxford shirt seen below can work in all kinds of scenarios, from a casual weekend coffee run to a farmer’s market trip to a day at the office. That’s what we’re going for here, at least. And the great thing about your new favorite Oxford shirt is that it’ll work with plenty of pieces you’ve already got in your closet, from American-made denim to tailored sweatpants and crisp leather sneakers for a very laidback Sunday brunch. What do you say? Shall we get after it? Chime in on the below in the comments or on Twitter once you’ve checked out the #OOTD below. Shop on!

Line of Trade

Take that navy Oxford and pair it with slim chinos and classic kicks to step into September (and beyond).

The Oxford Shirt: Line of Trade Navy Oxford, $70 – Let’s kick it off with a modern-fitting, garment-washed Oxford shirt in a slightly different deep navy color. Ready to wear with anything — slim chinos included.

The Chinos: Banana Republic Aiden Slim Rapid Movement Chino, $98 — A recent addition to the BR line, these stretch chinos combine a tailored fit with a range of color options — although the shade seen here is perhaps most versatile.

The Sneakers:  Rancourt and Co. Carson Low in Natural Canvas, $175 — Made in America to exacting standards, these Rancourt and Co. sneakers are a more durable answer to classic white canvas sneakers — and all the better for it.

The Socks: Arvin Goods No-show Socks, $30 (Three-pack) — Because it’s not quite fall yet, we’re still rolling up our chinos to show off those USA-made sneakers — and Arvin Goods no-show socks are critical in that regard.

The Belt: Sturdy Brothers Everyday Belt in Chestnut, $80 — Tired of buying cheap accessories? This handsome, extremely well-made Sturdy Brothers belt is the upgrade you need for fall.

The Watch:  Timex Stainless Steel Waterbury Watch, $119 — Told you we’d be breaking out durable everyday accessories, right? This rugged stainless steel dive watch from Timex is a steal in terms of price and looks.

The Sunglasses: Classic Specs Lowerree Aviators, $88 — Perhaps you’re not familiar with Classic Specs  — I know I wasn’t — but pieces like these stylish Aviator sunglasses should change that in a hurry.

The Everyday Carry: Nisolo Lori Leather Tote, $134.98 — Wary of carrying a rugged leather tote when you normally haul around a stylish messenger bag? This handsome leather tote bag  is a new way to switch up your everyday carry.

Alright, then. Have a better idea of how to wear your new favorite Oxford shirt? When you start with a piece as classic and simply constructed as the Line of Trade navy Oxford shirt shown above, the possibilities are nearly endless. However, your Style Guide author thinks that keeping things straightforward is the best way to go. That is to say, slim chinos and natural canvas sneakers from Rancourt and Co. are standout building blocks for any outfit.  Add in fall-ready accessories like a rugged stainless steel dive watch from Timex  and a durable leather belt from Sturdy Brothers, and you’re set for this #OOTD — and plenty more outfits in the season ahead.  No outfit — especially one featuring a classic navy Oxford shirt — is complete without finishing touches like stylish Aviator sunglasses and a handsome leather tote bag, though. So, just as with many of your other favorite #menswear pieces, the little details matter, and starting things off with easily wearable essentials is the best way to say goodbye to one season and look toward the next.

Hope you enjoyed today’s post — and thanks for reading!

-Beau

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Hudson Shoes Lewiston Chukka

Hudson Shoes

The handsome pair of chukka boots to get you ready for fall.

Alright, Style Guide readers. I’ve got good news and … more good news. The good news is that you’re really going to like today’s Style Pick of the Week. The better news is that we’re one week closer to everyone’s favorite #menswear season — fall. OK, maybe jumping the gun a bit (or a lot). And yet, it pays to be prepared when it comes to the best men’s gear for the season — right? So, let me introduce you to the Hudson Shoes Lewiston Chukka. Yes indeed, the Lewiston Chukka is a heck of a pair of chukka boots to put on your shopping list for fall. Heck, they can help you step into any situation in style, at any point in the year. Seriously. A classic pair of men’s chukka boots can work wonders with the simplest outfits. A stylish Oxford shirt and slim dark denim? Throw on leather chukka boots. Slim grey denim, a henley and a blue denim jacket? Lace up the Hudson Shoes Lewiston Chukka. A herringbone blazer and navy chinos when the fall rolls around? The Lewiston Chukka is your best bet. And the best part is, you can get ’em for a nice deal through Bespoke Post. The cognac leather upper is all style, while the leather lining is all comfort. And the rubber sole is made for navigating tougher terrain than your average pair of dress shoes. That’s really not all the Lewiston Chukka offers, truly.

Hudson Shoes

A closer look at the sleek profile of the Hudson Shoes Lewiston Chukka.

In addition to the solid price for a pair of year-round chukka boots, you’re getting neat design by way of Britain. Like the Crockett & Jones chukka boots that James Bond wears so well in “Skyfall,” the rubber sole on the Lewiston Chukka adds a bit of durability and traction in the rain and on other slippery fall surfaces. Again, just because it’s August doesn’t mean you shouldn’t look ahead. To wit: The Lewiston Chukka is going to sit just right under grey flannel trousers and a navy topcoat on a blustery day, and you can even wear ’em to the office and then to happy hour after without needing to switch them out.  That’s what I’m talking about, folks. All of that means you should give the Lewiston Chukka a serious shot now –and later in the fall season. Oh, and the custom stitching means you’re getting something no other shoe brand can bring to the table; well-done, Hudson Shoes. So, what do we think of the Hudson Shoes Lewiston Chukka? Are we ready for fall? Rest assured, we’ll be talking more in the months to come about the best men’s boots for fall and beyond — and you can expect the Lewiston Chukka to make that list.

Hey — stay stylish!

-Beau

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.

#OOTD: How to Layer Up for A Breezy Summer Night

Ready for today’s #OOTD? I hope you are — I sure am. Although we’re (sadly) getting down to the last few weeks of summer here, I assure you that today’s post is jammed with summer style essentials that still function well into the early fall.  Growing up in Michigan, I loved going to bonfires with family and friends, or spending nights on a river or lake enjoying a S’more and taking in the simpler things in life — it’s tough to find time to do that in NYC. Yet, if youre’ lucky enough to have another bonfire or backyard BBQ coming up, there’s a chance that once the sun sets, things will get a bit chilly. Not “polar vortex” cold, but breezier nonetheless. And when that time comes, you want #menswear that works with you — not against you. Men’s style staples that are crisp-yet-casual, easy to wear and easy to layer are going to be critical. You certainly want to dress for the occasion — think of it like dressing for a summer BBQ, where you’re there for a great time and ready for anything (don’t forget the beer). Keep these essentials around, and you’ll be glad you prepared accordingly — among my favorite picks from this #OOTD, I sure do love the Life/After/Denim Awash Hoodie, and I think you’ll find it’s a perfect casual menswear essential. What about the rest of these picks? Read on, shop away and catch up with me on Instagram to see how I’m spending these last few weeks of summer.

 

men's style essentials

Light, easygoing menswear staples for a breezy summer evening around a bonfire or at the beach.

The Hoodie: Life/After/Denim Awash Hoodie, $80 —  The breezy, casual Awash Hoodie features an absolutely perfect blend of laidback style and premium quality. It doesn’t look half-bad if your date needs to borrow it, either.

The Tee: Flint and Tinder Slub Tee in White, $38 — What’s more American and summer-friendly than a classic white T-shirt? Not a lot. Flint and Tinder makes its Slub Tee with just the right amount of comfort and rugged appeal.

The Denim: Nudie Jeans Grim Tim, $140.98 — While you could easily reach for a pair of classic summer shorts, the light wash of the Nudie Jeans Grim Tim plays nicely off the dark blue Life/After/Denim sweater. Ya dig?

The Belt: Sturdy Brothers Everyday Belt in Natural, $80 — That perfect, rugged yet wearable everyday belt (pun intended here) can be quite tough to find. This handsome Sturdy Brothers belt should certainly do the trick, yeah?

Timex

The Sneakers: SeaVees Maslon Desert Boot, $82.98 — What better classic sneakers to slip into than a pair of well-made, affordably priced and easygoing SeaVees sneakers?

The Socks: CHUP Labdien Socks, $16 — Cool, casual style calls for rolled light wash denim, classic white sneakers and stylish men’s socks with enough personality to speak for themselves after you’ve ditched your sneakers.

Florsheim

The Watch: Komrade Urban Diver Watch, $429 — There’s no better way to cap off an outfit filled with breezy, casual staples than by throwing on a tough-yet casual, rugged dive watch — right? Yes indeed — and Komrade surely makes an investment-worthy timepiece.

Save up to 25% each month by joining Style Plan at Frank + Oak! *Free Shipping & Returns. No code necessary. Monthly membership for men & women.

The Essential: Orange Vessel Co. Stoneware Growler, $68.99  — Craft beer delivered in a stylish, durable growler — definitely an essential for your next bonfire. This one from Orange Vessel Co. is pleasing, well-made and easy to transport.

When we talk layers and essential, casual men’s style, I’d say a piece like the Life/After/Denim Awash Hoodie makes perfect sense for a breezy summer night around a campfire or at a cabin on a lake.  It’s a reliable, easygoing piece to slip on over a well-made, classic white T-shirt  from Flint and Tinder  — you’ll get a lot of mileage out of that combo as long as you step into versatile, slim light wash jeans. And on the accessories front, don’t skimp when it comes time to put on a rugged dive watch or load up a durable growler full of your favorite beer. Sneaker-wise, I’d say that classic SeaVees sneakers are always in play — particularly for kicking back on a patio with good friends and family. What’s on your #menswear list when it comes time to dress for a shindig in late summer? Let me know on Twitter or in the comments below — thanks for reading!

-Beau

Greats