Tag / best men’s boots

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Wolverine Original 1000 Mile Boots

A classic in any season — especially fall.

Folks, let’s dive on into another Style Pick of the Week. More specifically, let’s talk rugged fall boots — as in the standout Wolverine Original 1000 Mile Boots. They’re investment-worthy and wish list-worthy, to say the least. Surely, if you’re a #menswear fan and have kept up with the industry, then you’ll recognize the durable, classic and resurgent style of the Wolverine 1000 Mile Boot. They were a trendy favorite in the mid-2000s as workwear and made-in-America goods surged back into play, but here’s the catch — Wolverine has made these boots a modern-day classic. Yes, the handsome, rugged and timeless silhouette of the Wolverine Original 1000 Mile Boot is just as relevant today. And what better season than fall to break out a pair of classic leather boots, after all? Wolverine has come up in the past on The Style Guide, specifically when talking the best boots for fall. Why not get ready for the season with the real deal, the Wolverine 1000 Mile Boot? Ehh? Yessir, Wolverine has nearly outdone themselves once again with this easily wearable, ridiculously well-crafted silhouette — and again, the time is just right to pick up the 1000 Mile Boots, my friends. And if I were you, I’d wear them to your next tailgate, on a bar crawl or to the office when paired up with a stylish fall blazer. They’re that good.

A tough silhouette that’s not too bulky — wearable with jeans or wool trousers in equal measure.

Like other Style Guide favorites — including the Original Chippewa Service Boots — this pair of 1000 Mile Boots is built to last right here in America. Wolverine uses uncompromising standards in crafting boots that can work with every single one of your fall menswear essentials, from rugged dark blue denim and a light blue denim shirt to faded black denim and a slim striped henley — and that’s only the beginning. The thing with the Wolverine Original 1000 Mile Boots  is that they’re only going to get better the more you wear them. Heck, the pattern of the boots itself is recreated from 1914, when the original 1000 Mile Boots  launched. And the leather?  It comes from Horween, perhaps the country’s foremost leather crafters. Throw in well-considered details like flat waxed laces and a leather outsole, and you’ve got a stunning pair of boots that can certainly last … beyond a thousand miles. See what I did there? At any rate, the craftsmanship and rugged appeal of the 1000 Mile Boots keeps going and going. OK, we’re done now. Thanks for reading!

Will the Wolverine Original 1000 Mile Boots be making their way into your footwear rotation this fall? How would you style the 1000 Mile Boots?

by Beau H.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#5.  Hudson Shoes Leiwston Chukka — $110

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

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

Honorable Mention: Astorflex Greenflex Rough in Sand — $150

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

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

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

-Beau

by Beau H.

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

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

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

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

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

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Astorflex Greenflex Chukka Boots

Astorflex Greenflex Chukka Boots

Classic, stylish and easy-to-wear chukka boots via Astorflex, shown at the top right with travel essentials from Owen and Fred, Abercrombie & Fitch, Huckberry, Nautica, Herschel Supply Co. and Electric Sunglasses.

Is it just me, or is it time for a seasonal footwear upgrade with a pair of the best boots for men? Think: Something that’s not a sneaker, but not a burly leather work boot that’s uncomfortable to wear — something that’ll work for nearly every style situation, from a casual weekend barbecue to a stylish road trip. Who’s with me? Perhaps the Astorflex Greenflex Chukka Boots come to mind — no? I recently took my own pair on a spring road trip to Indiana, and can definitely vouch for them.  They’re an updated take on the classic desert boot, crafted with a crepe sole, high-quality suede and the type of easygoing silhouette that pairs just as well with your favorite chinos as it does with slim light wash denim on breezy summer days. In fact, I’d hope you recognize the Astorflex Greenflex Chukka Boots as seen above from a few posts on The Style Guide.

Namely, the rich Dark Khaki colorway seen here will work as you dress for Sunday brunch or look for ways to upgrade your casual shirt — don’t think you should shelve all of your chukka boots entirely just because the thermostat starts to climb. And know that these Astorflex chukka boots also come in the equally versatile Stone and Grey colorways. Indeed, with a blend of comfort, style and accessibility, the Astorflex Greenflex Chukka Boots — just like the brand’s Astorflex Chelsea Boots —  are a seasonal must-have in any color. Trust me: That goes for spring, summer and fall. Seriously, keep them on hand to wear with a rugged chambray shirt and dark selvedge denim to a fall tailgate — it’s a winning combo if you’re looking for insight into how to wear chukka boots. But, back to matters of summer style — what makes these a must-buy?

For starters, it’s tough to find a chukka boot that features eco-friendly, handmade Italian construction out there — let alone with a sub-$150 price tag. And to find one that goes with everything from slim stone chinos to dark denim to slim light wash jeans in the summer can be tricky, too. That easygoing versatility is what sets these Astorflex Greenflex Chukka Boots apart in so many situations. Rather than resorting to minimal athletic sneakers, jeans and a slim pocket tee, try out these chukka boots and perhaps a tough dive watch — instant style upgrade in the making, and certainly one of the best men’s style moves you can make. And because they’re sold via Huckberry, you can be sure that they’re up to snuff in terms of quality and great looks. It’s also worth noting that the desert boot is a stone-cold classic silhouette — as if you needed another reason to buy these. In addition to real-life functionality for British soldiers, they’ve gained an iconic status — up there with classic white sneakers — that’s tough to top on the footwear front. So, despite summer weather finally catching up to us … there’s no reason not to wear a classic pair of desert boots like the affordable, easy-to-wear and stylish Astorflex Greenflex Chukka Boots.

How would you style these boots? To pick up inspiration from yours truly, check out my Instagram. And send me a note on Twitter if ever you have #menswear questions.

Stay stylish!

-Beau

Greats

by Beau H.

#OOTD: Everyday Spring Style

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

Thanks for joining us again today on The Style Guide — let’s get to it! Alright, who’s excited that it’s March? I sure am. Namely, that means we’re transitioning into a great season for menswear, and that also gives you plenty of chances to break out everyday spring style looks. We’re talking versatile, comfortable pieces built for layering — yet these are also pieces that work on their own, and can be added or subtracted depending on the weather.  Whether that means dressing for spring rain  or heading out on a weekend coffee date, we’ve got pieces you’ll recognize, want to buy and want to wear.  That includes classic pieces (cough, the Todd Snyder x Champion Pocket Sweatshirt, cough) and slightly edgier staples. OK, all good? Keep up with other #menswear inspiration on the daily via Instagram or Twitter — and weigh in on this look via the comments, as always.

Working in the versatile, the classic and the new into one outfit.

Working in the versatile, the classic and the new into one outfit.

The Sweatshirt: Todd Snyder x Champion Pocket Sweatshirt, $98 — Recognize this sweater? Of course you do — right? Todd Snyder is an American menswear luminary precisely for pieces like the lauded Pocket Sweatshirt, and it’s a nice, easy-to-wear spring layering option.

The Shirt: Abercrombie & Fitch Two-Pocket Chambray Shirt, $39 — There’s really never a bad time to wear a classic chambray shirt, is there?  This one is laidback, casual and versatile.

The Pants: Life/After/Denim Classic 5-Pocket Pant in White, $148 — White pants — even in a straightforward five-pocket silhouette — can be a bit of a leap stylistically. Don’t worry here, though — the tailored fit and use of other classic staples (like the Pocket Sweatshirt) helps dial these in.

The Boots: Astorflex Bootflex in Dark Khaki, $169.98 — A recent release from Astorflex by way of Huckberry, these lace-up boots are high-quality and no-frills — exactly what you need for stomping through inclement spring weather (just be sure to waterproof ’em).

The Belt: Abercrombie & Fitch Woven Leather Belt, $44 — We’re dialing in casual style right down to the last detail with this #OOTD — a woven leather belt provides some nice texture & casual style to complement the Astorflex Bootflex in particular.

The Watch: Timex + Todd Snyder Military Watch, $138 — What better way to complement the Pocket Sweatshirt than with another stylish, sharp and durable Todd Snyder piece? The Military Watch could be your new favorite casual watch — trust me.

Frank & Oak

The Hat: Huckberry Explorer’s Cap, $39.98 — Told you we were keeping things laidback, didn’t I? Now, you can’t wear a ballcap every day, but if you’re checking out of the office early on a Friday (for example) … toss on the Explorer’s Cap as you head to a patio lunch.
Beckett Simonon

The Bag: Nisolo Lori Tote, $134.98 — When you want a durable yet easy-to-carry bag, reach for the handsome Nisolo Lori Tote. It’s handmade with minimal construction and beautiful leather that should develop a nice patina.
So, with that — let’s wrap up this #OOTD, shall we? Comfortable layering pieces like the Todd Snyder x Champion Pocket Sweatshirt are easy to wear no matter the season, and a slim chambray shirt perfectly complements the more fashion-forward white 5-pocket pants. Given the company’s reputation for quality, sustainability and durability, the Astorflex Bootflex in Dark Khaki should also be an extremely reliable spring footwear pick, finished off handsomely by the excellent Timex + Todd Snyder Military Watch. Of course, keeping your accessories in line is crucial, and the textured Abercrombie & Fitch Woven Leather Belt is a nice way to do that — as is the Huckberry Explorer’s Cap. Got that all together? Shopping cart full? Join us tomorrow for a helpful Spring Style Wish List — and we’ll see you out there this spring!
-Beau

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Eddie Bauer K-6 Boot

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

eddie-bauer-hikers-edited

 

OK, quick — check the weather. What’s in the forecast? Snow? Slush? Rain? All three. That’s where the  Eddie Bauer K-6 Boot — this week’s prime #menswear pick — comes into play. Trust me, we’ve got a great one on our hands here, folks.  Now, Eddie Bauer has long been known as a brand that’s got the heart of the outdoors woven into its DNA — check out the Eddie Bauer x Pendleton Skyliner Jacket for further evidence of that — but lately, the brand has taken a bit of a different approach. It encompasses a full lifestyle line that I’ve found unique, rugged and stylish. I was fortunate enough to take the Snowbridge Cardigan with me on a winter trip to Baltimore, and I’ve been similarly pleased with the versatility and rugged appeal of the Eddie Bauer K-6 Boot, a heck of a winter weekend style pick.  It’s a recent addition to the brand’s line, and it plays beautifully off the original silhouette first introduced by the brand all the way back in 1964. And if you haven’t picked up your favorite pair of winter boots, the K-6 Boot might handsomely fill that void — and then some.

For starters, these boots are about as tough and rugged as they come — absolutely perfect for surviving the polar vortex in style.  The Vibram outsole is sturdy, durable and highly functional, a huge help in navigating slushy, slippery terrain. Plus, the Goodyear welt is an added bonus you don’t find on too many hiking boots (or so it seems). What’s more, they’re about as stylish a pair of hikers as you’re going to find. That means they’ll work just as well with rugged blue or black denim and a chamois shirt as they will with a warm winter cardigan. The Paprika color in particular is rich and has aged well over time — and that’s going to be a critical style point to keep in mind as you dress for, say, a weekend coffee run. And with two lace options — either an eye-catching red pair of a yellow pair — it’s almost as if you’re getting two pairs of boots for the price of one. Take it from your Style Guide author — they’re definitely worth buying and wearing plenty throughout the last vestiges of winter (and well beyond).

What’s your take on the Eddie Bauer K-6 Boot? Would you buy ’em — and how would you wear them?

Beckett Simonon

by Beau H.

#OOTD: How to Dress Casually This Winter

We’re a month into the new year, and the question for all of us #menswear fans has to be: Are you sticking to your men’s style resolutions? Finding ways to improve your wardrobe and upgrade your style? Hopefully, that’s the case through these first few weeks of 2017 — and it’s that same approach that should apply to even seemingly casual, daily style. We’ve talked tailored winter style, we’ve talked classic winter style and now, we’re talking about a style situation that can sometimes be a difficult balance — casual winter style. For those times you want to be relaxed and comfortable, yet put-together. Even if you’re only making a quick morning coffee run or an evening beer run before hosting friends, putting your best foot forward is, as we always talk about at The Style Guide, crucial. So, we’re taking staple pieces of your wardrobe and switching them up a bit — a classic black jacket, sharp denim and your favorite pair of leather boots, for starters.  Read and shop the below #OOTD,  leave questions in the comments section below, and follow along on Instagram for more daily winter style inspiration.  Good luck out there!

Taking basic pieces and amping them up with improved fits, great fabric and yes, great style

Taking basic pieces and amping them up with improved fits, great fabric and yes, great style.

The Jacket: Reigning Champ Trail Jacket, $198.98 — Lest you think that this Trail Jacket is basic, its performance and classic silhouette speak for itself (namely, the terry cotton and nylon combo is functional and easily wearable).

The Henley: Faherty Brand Waffle Henley Sweater, $154.98 — Part henley, part sweater and a substantial upgrade from your standard weekend T-shirt — warm, cozy, ultra-stylish and yes, pricey.

The Denim: Abercrombie & Fitch Slim-Straight Performance Winter Jeans, $35.20 — Is there such a thing as winter denim? There certainly is — and for a great price, you’re getting excellent comfort, a tremendous fit and comfortable fabric.

The Hat: Ebbets Field Flannels for J. Crew Detroit Cubs Ballcap, $49.50 — A ballcap in this instance? Absolutely — we’re going for casual style after all, and this hat is a unique, vintage-inspired conversation starter.


The Boots: CAT Footwear Sutter Boots, $210 —  While you could always swap in a pair of handsome leather sneakers, tough leather boots are the way to go in the snow — plus, they add a bit of sharpness to this casual look.

The Socks: Richer Poorer Stitcher Classic Boot Sock, $16 — Comfort, quality and a bit of sport-inspired style — that’s what you’re getting with these crisp boot socks.

The Belt: Abercrombie & Fitch Woven Leather Belt, $30.80 — Add some seasonally appropriate texture and casual style with this nicely priced, versatile leather belt. Wear it with slim chinos and a navy blazer to the office, too.
Beckett Simonon

The Watch: Timex Weekender Chrono Oversized, $84.95 — It’s tough to beat the reliability, durability and simple style of a Timex watch for the price. You could also go with the sharp Form-Function-Form Horween Leather Weekender here.

The Briefcase: Joshu + Vela Zip Briefcase, $265 — Be it lugging around your laptop or your everyday carry, you need a great bag. The Joshu + Vela Zip Briefcase is handsome, beautifully made and durable — just what you need.

That’s a wrap on this week’s #OOTD — although it’s sometimes easy to let your style slip up in casual situations, resist the temptation to do so with functional, comfortable pieces that fit, feel and look great. Starting with the technical-yet-sharp Reigning Champ Trail Jacket and continuing with reliable layering pieces like the Waffle Henley Sweater, you’ll be set in terms of warmth and versatility. Brushed cotton denim and tough leather boots hardly ever fail, and they’re a nice way to complement more casual accessories, like that vintage-inspired J. Crew ballcap and Timex watch.  And no matter the occasion, a reliable bag like the Joshu + Vela Zip Briefcase  is the perfect way to carry your gear from point A to point B. OK, got all that? You bet.

Thanks for reading and stay stylish,

-Beau

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Danner Mountain Light Boots

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

danner-mountain-light-boots

Sturdy, reliable and durable boots with a bit of sleek styling potential thanks to the all-black silhouette.

There’s something about the depths of winter that causes you to take a look at #menswear pieces you might once have rejected. Not normally a fan of winter parkas? Maybe you’re considering getting one to battle the polar vortex. No need for durable winter gloves built for work? Think again. The same could possibly be said for alpine-inspired hikers. Unlike other stylish men’s winter boots, a hiker is quite distinctive in its silhouette — it’s not your average leather chukka boot, that’s for sure. Such is the case with the Danner Mountain Light, a classic pair of footwear that certainly means business when it comes to looking stylish in the snow.  It’s this week’s Style Pick of the Week for good reason — and not just because it’s the younger brother to the so-called “Bond Boot” — that would be the Danner Mountain Light II, as worn by none other than James Bond in 2015’s “SPECTRE.” Heck, our man Daniel Craig wore his Danner boots even when not on-camera. Now, the silhouette looks almost identical, but the Internet tells me the weights on these bad boys are different. There you go. So, why go for the Danner Mountain Light if you’re not a fan of hikers? Truly, you’ve got plenty of reason to give them a shot (functionality, toughness, alpine-inspired style) — and not just ‘cuz they’re sold via Huckberry.

Our main man Daniel Craig wearing the Danner Mountain Light II.... slightly different, but nonetheless worth channeling (maybe minus the handgun).

Our main man Daniel Craig wearing the Danner Mountain Light II…. slightly different, but nonetheless worth channeling (maybe minus the handgun).

In particular, the Danner Mountain Light is built with functionality in mind, through and through. Made in Danner’s Portland factory — that’d be Oregon — you’re getting all the hallmarks of quality and toughness you’d expect from a USA-made brand (plus a very Bond-ian silhouette). The stitchdown construction means you can resole ’em when the time comes — although you might not get to that point for a while. The Vibram outsole on the Danner Mountain Light — plus the brand’s custom last — also offer stability and support. That all means the Danner Mountain Light is the real deal — built for more than just strolling around the city. And if you’re not sold on the styling potential, take a cue from Bond — without the high-speed mountain chase. Slim black denim and rugged pieces like a shawl-collar cardigan and a marled henley are simple, effective complements to this rugged pair of boots — it’s practically an outfit tailor-made for getting around during a winter bar crawl. They’re the perfect pair of weekend boots, especially when teamed with simple, easygoing pieces like a classic crewneck sweater and beat-up blue denim. Even a simple piece like a sleek black bomber and black trousers are finished off reliably with the Danner Mountain Light — stealing  page from Bond’s playbook there. And of course, more technically inclined looks work just fine with a pair of boots that are tough, functional and yet uniquely stylish — your dad’s retro hiking boots, these are not. So, lace up and get climbing. Any thoughts on the Danner Mountain Light? Are you pro-hiker or anti-hiker? Let’s hear it in the comments below!

Thanks, as always, for reading — enjoy the weekend!

-Beau

Get the Danner Mountain Light now via Huckberry.

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Beckett Simonon

by Beau H.

#OOTD: Classic Winter Style

Welcome to another edition of the #OOTD series here on The Style Guide.  At this point in the winter season, hopefully, you’ve got a closet stocked chock-full of style essentials — you know, things you can wear (and enjoy wearing) every day, like a slim topcoat , a great pair of dark denim, a sharp casual watch … you get the picture. If you don’t yet have those pieces, that’s what today’s #OOTD will solve. We’re talking a classic-yet-modern ensemble that fits in at the office on a casual day, out at the bar or stepping out on a weekend coffee date.  It’s focused on taking easy-to-wear pieces — some of which you might recognize from past posts — and putting it all together in one sharp combination. After all, that’s what great style is all about — and if you’re hard at work on your 2017 menswear resolutions, versatility should be top of mind.  So, it’s all on the table; let’s get to it, shall we? Leave any feedback on Twitter or in the comments below — let’s get shopping!

Some classic pieces, some new pieces and a combination that's ready for nearly anything.

Some classic pieces, some new pieces and a combination that’s ready for nearly anything.

The Shirt: Flint and Tinder Texas Moleskin Shirt, $89 — So, let’s start off this ensemble with a unique take on the traditional Oxford — this American-made moleskin shirt should be warm, slim-fitting and versatile (add a grey wool tie if you need to sharpen it up a bit).

The Cardigan: JackThreads Cable Knit Cardigan, $59 — Here’s yet another layering piece that switches things up from the typical shawl-collar cardigan — note the cable knit and unique silhouette.

The Topcoat: JackThreads Tieman Topcoat, $149 — Is there ever really a bad time to throw on a camel topcoat? Not really — and this sharp, double-breasted number adds a bit of tailored flair to this casual #OOTD.

The Denim: Flint and Tinder All-American Jeans in Straight Tapered, $98 — While you could also reach for a pair of classic slim chinos, American-made denim in a slim-straight cut is the slightly more rugged, casual option if you’re putting together a weekend brunch ensemble, for instance.

The Boots: G.H. Bass Camp Moc Toe Ranger Boots, $160 — For a combination of prep style and rugged good looks, it’s tough to beat these handsome moc toe boots.

The Socks: American Trench Fair Isle Sock in Merino and Cashmere, $28.98 — When a brand like American Trench consistently delivers superbly high-quality socks, you make it a point to buy ’em in bunches — right?

The Belt: Anderson’s Stretch Woven Leather Belt, $114.98 — How do you offset a mix of casual and dressy pieces? With a textured leather belt that’s incredibly well-made, that’s how.

The Watch: Timex + Todd Snyder Red Wing Leather Chronograph, $158 — Last but not least — if you want a watch that’s rugged, functional and handsome, this is the one to buy. It’s the perfect complement to this versatile ensemble — in my humble opinion, that is.
Frank & Oak

And with that, we’ve reached the end of this week’s #OOTD — what did you think? It’s tough to be a slim-fitting, classic American-made moleskin shirt, particularly when you offset that with unique layers like a navy cable-knit cardigan and a classic camel topcoat. Throw on a classic, durable pair of essential dark blue denim and pair the look up with rough-and-tumble (yet versatile) moc toe boots for style that’ll work throughout the work week and on into a weekend happy hour. And if you needed an excuse to buy a stylish leather watch, that Red Wing Leather Chronograph is just what the doctor ordered. OK, do you have all those notes down? Somewhat? Good, good. Let me know what you think in the comments — and thanks, as always, for reading!

-Beau

Huckberry

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: G.H. Bass Buxton Boots

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

Tough, sturdy and classic -- everything you need in a great pair of leather boots

Tough, sturdy and classic — everything you need in a great pair of leather boots

Christmas might be over, but to this #menswear writer, it’s the most wonderful time of the year — time to upgrade your winter boot game in serious style. Truly, you need rugged, durable boots to combat the weather we’ve got going on out there (at least in this neck of the woods). Enter the supremely classic, tough and durable G.H. Bass Buxton Boots, all made-in-America construction and great looks. Now, G.H. Bass is perhaps better known for its classic leather loafers , but believe me when I say the brand’s boots are worth a shot as well. I’ve had the chance to check out the Buxton Boots over these past few weeks in the chilly, snowy cold of NYC, and they’ve more than stood up to the test. The great part about a moc toe boot — especially the Buxton Boot — is the classic, preppy and yet slick styling potential. In a handsome shade of Chestnut leather with contrast stitching, they’re a surprisingly versatile boot. These are the type of boots to wear with everything from slim sand chinos and your favorite shawl cardigan this winter on the weekends to Donegal wool trousers, a classic chambray shirt and a wool blazer to the office — give it a try sometime (after you buy ’em, that is).  And the construction and performance? These guys get an A-plus in that regard, too.

A relatively slim profile and sturdy stitching add to the durability & style of these boots.

A relatively slim profile and sturdy stitching add to the durability & style of these boots.

They’re made in Maine and feature a surprisingly slim profile for a moc toe boot, with a  rather unique five-eye upper and tough rawhide laces. It’s a classic, rugged combination that’s held up well in the snow and slush — the tread is durable and relatively grippy, too. The Buxton Boots are heritage-inspired without verging too far into costume territory — they’re the perfect boot to pair with something crisp and essential like the Taylor Stitch Yosemite Shirt as you dress for Sunday brunch (who doesn’t love brunch and a great pair of boots, ehh?).  And while the black leather option is just as worthy of a purchase, there’s something to be said about buying a pair of tough, USA-made boots in a classic shade of deep brown. They’re just the sort of boots to offset slim corduroys this winter, and you could feasibly wear them with light wash denim and a slim pocket tee for spring style transitions (trust me on that one, they’ll hold up just fine).  And yes, $400-plus is a lot to drop in one fell swoop, even for a pair of sturdy, stylish men’s boots. But again, we love our investment-worthy pieces on this blog — and buying this pair is absolutely the right investment to make.

Will you be buying the G.H. Bass Buxton Boots? Let me know in the comments!

Beckett Simonon