Tag / best men’s casual watches

by Beau H.

Style Suggestion: How to Dress for Fall Weather

Editor’s note: For a full set of style suggestions for fall, click here.

We’re slowly (but surely) creeping toward fall — it seems like that’s been the case for a couple of weeks here at The Style Guide, but it’s certainly no more true than right now. Dressing for football season has started, there’s a bunch of great new music out — that signals tons of fall tours and rock concert style — and it’s high time to, well, get with the times. So, grab your fall style wish list and get hip to the scene. Even if it takes a while to get chilly, you’ll still want to have the proper gear on hand when it does. I know temperatures have been high here in NYC, but I’m definitely anxiously awaiting fall. For all of you loyal Style Guide readers (I know you’re out there), it signifies a really fun time of year in terms of menswear. If you’re one who tends to get sick of the oppressive heat — and even tires of heading to the beach — it can be a welcome change of pace to throw on heavier layers and incorporate durable texture into your #menswear ensemble again. And being able to play around with deep fall colors and textures — as some of the picks do below — is another reliable signifier that the season is changing. Everywhere you look, it’s about that time. Wthout further ado, here’s a look at how to dress for fall. Catch more style tips daily on the ‘Gram or Twitter, and leave any thoughts on this look in the comments.

The Jacket: Old Navy Canvas Coat — $69.94

Not as heavy as a winter parka, not as lightweight as a spring jacket -- hence, a great fall coat.

Not as heavy as a winter parka, not as lightweight as a spring jacket — hence, a great fall coat.

You feel a crisp breeze in the air, but a lightweight spring jacket won’t cut — and it’s not heavy winter topcoat time, either. What’s your reliable go-between? A cotton canvas coat in a rich shade that’s perfectly primed for fall. Although the interior of this jacket is lined with a neat striped cotton, it should prove reliable and not too heavy for layering. Details like the front patch pockets call to mind workwear of days past, and the rich Bandolier Brown color is going to handsomely offset the blues in the rest of this ensemble (although we don’t want to give too much away yet).

The Shirt: Taylor Stitch Everyday Chambray Shirt — $104.98

Beautifully made, able to withstand anything and certainly able to make that transition to fall.

Beautifully made, able to withstand anything and certainly able to make that transition to fall.

Were you expecting something other than a stellar Taylor Stitch chambray shirt here? I hope not, because I’d bet you’re disappointed right about now. The brand takes the same attention to detail that’s made its Standard Issue Chinos beloved by The Style Guide, and applies that process to a heck of a chambray shirt. Featuring sturdy double-needle construction, a midweight 7oz. chambray fabric and a fit that’s modern yet mobile, it’s the ideal contrast to that handsome brown jacket. Plus, it’s got the type of classic looks and styling potential that’ll work the rest of the year, too.

The Denim: Flint & Tinder All-American Slim Tapered Jeans — $98

New denim from a menswear line that gets essential fall basics right.

New denim from a menswear line that gets essential fall basics right.

The brand that produces your favorite set of American-made boxer briefs and other stellar fall menswear delivers again with new denim that’s part of its deepest product offering to date. For fans of versatile, timeless style, that’s very much a positive. These jeans are every bit an essential pair of fall denim, made from 12oz. Cone Mills fabric and featuring one percent of stretch  — that touch will make it easier to wear ’em on fall hikes or walks in the park. The slim fit is a must-have these days, although the brand’s waist sizing does go up to 40. Grab one pair of these, wear the heck out of them and watch them tell the story of a great fall season.

The Boots: JackThreads Kimbo Chelsea Boot in Brown Calf Leather — $110

Part of a new set of footwear offered from the excellent E-commerce retailer.

Part of a new set of footwear offered from the excellent E-commerce retailer.

Since when does JackThreads make footwear? Since this season, that’s when. It’s part of the brand’s mission to expand on its stellar menswear line and take up some serious real estate in your closet. When they’re able to churn out crisp pieces like these refined Chelsea boots for just a shade over $100, that’s very agreeable. A stylish Chelsea boot works nearly any time of year, yet they seem particularly fitting for fall. They’re not nearly as clunky as some thick winter boots, and they feel especially sleek alongside slim denim and a chambray shirt (some stylish leather chukka boots could also work here, though).

The Socks: Mack Weldon Everyday Striped Socks — $14.50

Easygoing socks for daily wear -- in a color that plays along nicely with the rest of this outfit.

Easygoing socks for daily wear — in a color that plays along nicely with the rest of this outfit.

The folks at Mack Weldon are consistently churning out everyday basics that’ll have you covered from the ground up, from its Vesper Polo to pieces like its Merino Long-Sleeve Tee, and if you read this blog as much as I think you should, you’re well-acquainted with those pieces (wink, wink). So, it only makes sense that you should round out your wardrobe with some striped Mack Weldon socks that add a nice bit of color contrast to the deep blues and browns of this outfit. Ya feel me?

The Watch: MVMT Watches The 40 in Rose Gold/Brown Leather — $120

A stunner of a watch for a stunningly low price.

A stunner of a watch for a stunningly low price.

Are you familiar with MVMT Watches? If not, you definitely should be. That is, if you’re a fan of stylish, affordable eye-catching watches — and who isn’t? There are some watches that are so refined in their design, you can wear them more casually — that’s certainly the case with this MVMT Watches timepiece, crafted from a rich brown leather-brown dial-rose gold case combo that’s a heck of a looker. It’s a way to offset some of the more rugged pieces in this outfit, like the canvas coat and chambray shirt. More importantly, it’s dressy enough to wear later on this season with, dare I say, the Taylor Stitch Telegraph Suit?

The Belt: J. Crew Suede Belt — $55

Texture in the form of a refined belt for the season.

Texture in the form of a refined belt for the season.

This suede belt first made an appearance in this site’s suggestion on how to dress for a football game, and it’s back here and adding a change of pace to this outfit in the process. The look is already quite heavy on rugged style, to be sure, so it’s fitting that a suede belt comes into play. Fall is the perfect time to try out texture where you might not do so normally, and for more than $50, you better get a lot of wear out of this belt to justify the initial price (although this particular pick is suede, a handsome leather belt like the Tanner Goods Classic Belt would work, too).

The Sunglasses: MVMT Watches Runaway Sunglasses — $75

Equal parts retro cool and affordable style from a watch maker who knows how that stuff works.

Equal parts retro cool and affordable style from a watch maker who knows how that stuff works.

Wait a second — MVMT Watches does sunglasses? Yes, they sure do. And why do we have sunglasses in this post? Well, as this is transitional style and all, it’s still going to be a bit sunny out there most days, whether you’re taking a hike through a park, heading to a bar crawl or taking in that football game. These sunglasses aren’t too precious to take a beating, and more importantly, they’ve got a distinct air of retro cool about them. Just like the watch, they’re perfect to pair with everything from that Taylor Stitch chambray shirt to … wait for it… the decidedly modern Taylor Stitch Telegraph Suit.

And there you have it, folks — pick up one, all (or heck, none?) of the above items and prep for fall in style. As we always aim for at this #menswear blog, reaching for pieces that are going to have your back the rest of the year is a solid bet no matter the season. And if given the chance to wear a durable chambray shirt with a crisp canvas coat, take it. The combo is just the right amount of rugged with venturing too far off the beaten path, and pieces like slim, dark denim and brown leather Chelsea boots keep things modern. A refined watch and cool-as-heck sunglasses are items every guy needs, yet not every guy has — except you. And you can never go wrong with accessories from staple players like Mack Weldon and J. Crew. Head-to-toe, there might not be a better time to be a style fan — and that’s what makes fall menswear so great.

What’s your take on this ensemble? Have you picked up any of these pieces?

by Beau H.

Style Suggestion: What to Wear When It’s Hot Out

Editor’s note: Click here for other #menswear style suggestions.

While the calendar shows that we’re well into August, the summer heat shows no signs of dissipating — maybe that’s just the unfortunate circumstance of navigating the overcrowded subways, but I think not. And so, that’s what we’re getting into today (if the title wasn’t enough). That crucial-yet-simple question — what to wear when it’s hot out — is still pretty relevant, and it’s a good thought to keep in your back pocket even if it feels like summer’s winding down. Now, the good news is that if you live in an area where it’s ungodly hot all year-round, you’ll have plenty of use for the below style suggestion. It’s partly functional, it’s (hopefully) stylish, and it’s geared toward taking you from Sunday brunch to the park and beyond — you can even repurpose this #menswear look during a casual day at the office. For those who value versatility in style (which should be, well, all of us), that’s a must-have. Got other questions or thoughts on what you’d like to see on The Style Guide? Get at me on Twitter.
Buck Mason - Timeless Design. Made in America.
The Shirt: Good Man Brand Slub Stripe Polo — $75.98

A polo that hits the sweet spot in terms of lightweight fabric and solid fit.

A polo that hits the sweet spot in terms of lightweight fabric and solid fit.

If you want to look put-together even on a day off, a crisp-yet-casual polo sold via the fine team at Huckberry will set you right. This particular number features a peached slub jersey fabric that’s going to be breathable and move with you. In fact, it should feel every bit like a slim pocket T-shirt, yet it looks that much more polished thanks to a collar that’s hand-sewn by shirtmakers — your average polo, this is not. The trim fit is to be applauded (even in a larger size like XL), and it’ll stylishly complement your choice of pants (particularly the ones below).

The Pants: OLIVERS Apparel 5-Pocket Pant — $168

A pant that manages to be ultra-stretchy and yet still sharp.

A pant that manages to be ultra-stretchy and yet still sharp.

From stylish-yet-functional essentials like the brand’s Movement Kit to staple pieces like the 5-Pocket Pant, OLIVERS is as solid an option as any if you’re looking for essentials to fight the heat. Although these are, well, pants and not fabric-reducing shorts, this particular pant is made with a nylon-spandex blend for stretch and comfort. Plus, they’ve got the super-crisp look of a classic pair of chinos and comfortable four-way stretch properties built in. Lastly, the folks at OLIVERS make these bad boys in Los Angeles, so you’re supporting American manufacturing while looking great.

The Shoes: Jack Erwin Cooper Boat Shoes — $125

Just the right shoe to complement an outfit made for movement and comfort.

Just the right shoe to complement an outfit made for movement and comfort.

Whether you’re stepping out on a summer holiday or exploring a big city on the weekend, a sharp pair of leather shoes that mix casual and refined style can’t go wrong. With that versatility in mind, Jack Erwin crafted the Cooper Boat Shoe, a favorite set of kicks for yours truly. They feel as comfortable as a pair of sneakers, the Caramel Nubuck is handsome and high-quality, and the elongated loafer last means they have a dressier look and feel than other boat shoes on the market (although you can’t go wrong with something like a refined leather loafer here). An underrated thing about these shoes? You can also rock them with no-show socks for a bit of breezy comfort.

The Socks: Sock Genius Villa Park Stripe No-show Sock — $10

A pair of no-show socks that keeps popping up -- for plenty of reasons.

A pair of no-show socks that keeps popping up — for plenty of reasons.

If you’ve kept up with all things men’s style here on the blog, you’ve seen Sock Genius No-show socks around these parts before — and for great reason. Now, if you’re already well-stocked with other comfortable no-show socks,  you’re probably fine to pass on picking up this pair. But if not, I’d strongly suggest you snag a set to finish off your outfit. A breathable pair of no-shows will help out your feet and your shoes tremendously in the long run, and the neat color & pattern on these is a small bonus when you kick off your shoes at the end of the day.

The Belt: Arcade Belt Co. Crawford Belt — $36

Whereas a leather belt will weigh you down, this number is built with a ton of stretch for lightweight comfort.

Whereas a leather belt will weigh you down, this number is built with a ton of stretch for lightweight comfort.

Sometimes, a leather belt can just feel a bit too cumbersome. Particularly when it’s just too hot out, you want to reduce excess weight as much as possible — and yes, that can even be done by reaching for a lightweight stretch belt. Arcade Belt Co. makes unique-looking belts that blend different materials — in this case, full-grain leather and high-tensile elastic. The result is a stylish belt that, like the polo and chinos above, moves with you as you walk around town or settle in for a relaxing Sunday brunch (also an area where the stretch could help, too). It’s a bit pricey, but it’ll pay off given the potential for mixing and matching with style staples like dark raw denim in the fall, too.
Florsheim

The Watch: Szanto Military Field Watch — $149.98

The right balance of casual, rugged and stylish.

The right balance of casual, rugged and stylish.

Now, there are certainly other casual watches that could work here, but the key here is to reach for a watch that’s going to help you fight the heat (in a small way) is a solid move. Although we all love a rich leather watch, the leather strap isn’t exactly the best option when it’s hot — but a canvas-strap watch, with its lightweight material, is much better (to put it simply). A durable field watch might seem an unusual option, so if that feels too casual, you could grab a stylish dive watch instead. Yet, the charcoal strap and dial shown here are understated, the dial design itself isn’t too loud, and the 42mm diameter is just about the right size — it’s a bit bigger in diameter than  a classic dress watch, but it’s well short of the world’s largest watch, ya dig?

The Sunglasses: Steven Alan Optical Millbrook Sunglasses in Dark Stripe Tortoise — $165

Sunglasses that are dressy yet not overly so.

Sunglasses that are dressy yet not overly so.

You might recognize these Steven Alan Optical sunglasses from this site’s roundup of the best men’s sunglasses for summer, and they’re making another appearance here for good measure. While the military field watch above skews a bit more casual, these sunglasses find that style middle ground nicely — they’re refined and a bit elevated, but they’d still look right at home with a polo and chinos.  Paired with the rich nubuck boat shoes, they make this an outfit that’s equal parts ready for casual Friday and a quick pint at the bar thereafter. And, they can even complement a lightweight suit at your next summer wedding.

It can be tough to gear up for a hot day in style — particularly if it means battling a hot commute, for example. But making the decision to dress stylishly and functionally can definitely be done if you know where to look. Fabrics that are breathable and lightweight, but done up in tailored silhouettes like the ones seen here, are the way to go if you’ve got to head to the office and then to a post-work engagement. And if you just want to look a little snappier on the weekend, chinos and a polo with built-in stretch are the perfect anchor for any look. Got other picks, or items you’d replace? Let me know in the comments!

Stay cool out there,

-Beau

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by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Timex x Todd Snyder Mod Watch

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.

A military NATO strap and a vintage-inspired design help this timepiece stand out in the best possible way. Photo courtesy of Timex.

A military NATO strap and a vintage-inspired design help this timepiece stand out in the best possible way. Photo courtesy of Timex.

Here at The Style Guide, your humble author is a big fan of rugged, tried-and-true classics — that goes for everything from chambray shirts to rugged leather chukka boots. But every now and then, slightly unexpected-yet-modern pieces are welcomed into the fold. That’s certainly the case with the Timex x Todd Snyder Mod Watch, a one-of-a-kind timepiece available exclusively through the lauded American designer’s Web site. In fact, it’s proven such a hit that it’s only available for backorder as of the time of this post. Yet, you should still seriously consider putting your name on that list (and then waiting anxiously until September, of course). Why is it so essential to get in the game now for us #menswear fans? Well for one, the timepiece itself is a perfect stylish casual watch that updates a vintage Timex design for the modern age. For another, it signals the start of an ongoing partnership between a classic watch brand and one of America’s best menswear designers — the fact that it was shown on the runways at Snyder’s recent New York Fashion Week: Men’s show is icing on the cake. And perhaps most importantly — it means you have a great excuse to pick up a new watch that’s eye-catching, crisp, versatile and available for under $140. Todd Snyder already stocks the elusive and much-loved Timex x Red Wing watch collaboration, featuring rugged watches that utilize tough Red Wing leather in the straps themselves. The Timex x Todd Snyder Mod Watch is a little more toned-down and refined, yet still very wearable — it’s an example of hitting it right down the middle when it comes to design balance.

A closer look at the red-and-black mod bullseye design, inspired by the Timex archives. Photo courtesy of the brand.

A closer look at the red-and-black mod bullseye design, inspired by the Timex archives. Photo courtesy of the brand.

Buck Mason - Timeless Design. Made in America.
Snyder’s savvy eye, combined with the knowledge of the Timex design team, leaves us with a striking watch that’s like none on the market right now. The red-and-black dial combo is unique enough in and of itself, but when paired with the military NATO strap, you’ve got a combination that’s made for rocking with a classic blue Oxford and slim sand chinos at the office, and a slim pocket T-shirt and navy chino shorts on the weekend. The 40mm case diameter hits the sweet spot in terms of size — it’s not too small, and it’s not overly large. That’s the benefit of a watch that manages to be clean and classic yet striking at the same time — it goes with anything. Truly, a sufficiently stylish NATO strap timepiece can even work with a  suit — just steal a style tip from James Bond in Spectre. Of course, the dial designs of each of those watches are different, but the idea remains the same. There are very few casual watches that can transition from being worn with something as casual as slim blue denim and a short-sleeve henley to being worn with a blazer, and that pool is narrowed even further when you look for something under $140.  So, the design is one-of-a-kind, the styling potential is one-of-a-kind and the price is …. well, one-of-a-kind. In fact, you’re really getting multiple watches for the price of one — the easy-to-change NATO strap can be easily switched out with everything from a Horween leather watch strap  to a floral NATO watch strap (truly). If that’s not enough to convince you, just know that this watch won’t stick around for long once it’s re-stocked — so pre-ordering it could be the smartest move you make this weekend.

What’s your take on the design of the Timex x Todd Snyder Mod Watch? How would you rock this timepiece?

by Beau H.

Online Shopping Picks: The 5 Best Men’s Watches to Buy Now

Editor’s note: To feast your eyes on all kinds of #menswear shopping picks, click over here.

Curious about what casual watch you need in your arsenal? Read on. The Stuhrling Aquadiver Manta Ray is pictured here. Vintage ballcap by Goorin Brothers. Striped chambray shirt by JACHS NY. Sneakers by Reef. Sunglasses by Tom Ford. Sweatshorts by Pistol Lake.

Curious about what casual watch you need in your arsenal? Read on. The Stuhrling Aquadiver Manta Ray is pictured here. Vintage ballcap by Goorin Brothers. Striped chambray shirt by JACHS NY. Sneakers by Reef. Sunglasses by Tom Ford. Sweatshorts by Pistol Lake.

Look down at your right wrist. Now, look down at your left wrist. Do you have a great watch on? Yes? No? Can’t tell? I’m here to help you sort that out today. When it comes to style upgrades, there’s no messing about here at The Style Guide. As a guy constantly on the hunt for a great watch, it’s an area that’s been a focus for me as of late — we even covered off on some more men’s watches on a budget last spring, so it’s high time to get after it again. And although it might not be the first thing you look to buy for yourself (whether you’ve owned a timepiece before or not), it can play a pretty crucial role in tying together an outfit. The right accessories just work that way. And while a casual watch might seem a bit out of place, we’re looking today for watches that you’d wear to, say, a relaxed spring bar crawl or a casual Sunday brunch, not to a boardroom meeting. Specifically, look for something Bond might wear in the Moroccan desert — you see where we’re headed with this? The below picks definitely reflect that spirit of adventure without the high price tag — casual in nature, ready for spring and summer (and beyond), and designed with a slightly more rugged feel in mind. If you think I missed any pieces, give me a holler on Twitter! Talk to you soon!

#1. Timex Waterbury — $100

A unique offering from a brand that does casual watches very well.

A unique offering from a brand that does casual watches very well.

Note that the original Timex Weekender could very well fill this top spot, too — it was a close call! But the brand so well-known for that style is doing something a little different with its Waterbury line. These watches blend rugged style, like that slightly aged leather strap, with a simple contrasting design on the dial and no real frills anywhere. It’s the perfect watch to grab when you want to mimic a leather dress watch without such a minimal look (like at that Sunday brunch). The price is definitely tough to beat no matter where else you look — it’ll take a lickin’ and keep on tickin’, to quote the brand.

#2. Daniel Wellington Classic Glasgow 40mm Silver Watch, $195

A style Bond would be proud to wear -- the merger of a dress watch and a sport-inspired strap.

A style Bond would be proud to wear — the merger of a dress watch and a sport-inspired strap.

For those who prefer a slightly more crisp watch merged with the sporty nature of a NATO strap, here’s your winner. Daniel Wellington has taken the ultra-minimal design and thin case of a dress watch for its Classic Glasgow  and done it up in a sharp silver color. The striped white-and-blue NATO strap is practically begging to be worn alongside a slim pocket tee and a great pair of summer shorts — even if it looks a tad too dressy at first, a watch this well-designed can work with any outfit (just be sure to keep it out of the water — it’s not built to go quite that far).

#3. Timex for J. Crew Vintage Army Field Watch — $98

Based on a decades-old archival design, this watch is worth the higher price tag compared to other Timex watches.

Based on a decades-old archival design, this watch is worth the higher price tag compared to other Timex watches.

J. Crew continues to knock it out of the park when it comes to partnering with renowned third-party brands, and this particular watch has surely ended up on many a style wish list over the years because of that. The Timex for J. Crew timepiece in question is based on a style from the Timex archives that dates back to the 1940s — talk about timeless. The olive strap is neutral enough to match with almost anything, and the simple case markings and smaller case diameter make this one subtle, stylish watch — to say it’s perfect for a backyard barbeque would be an understatement.

#4. KOMONO Winston Heritage Chambray — $99.95

Chambray on a watch strap? Can't go wrong.

Chambray on a watch strap? Can’t go wrong.

While chambray as a shirting or trouser fabric is versatile enough to rock year-round, it’s not often seen on watch straps. In this instance though, the KOMONO Winston Heritage would be a unique, eye-catching addition to your watch collection — it’s just different enough visually from a brown leather watch to make it worth your time (pun intended). The acid wash chambray strap is a neat finishing touch that would play nicely off inky selvedge denim and a navy crewneck, and it would also work alongside a slim short-sleeve henley and light wash jeans this spring. Casual in nature, ya dig?

#5. Stuhrling Original Aquadiver Manta Ray Watch — $48.40

Ultra-tough and ultra-dependable, this rubber-strap Stuhrling watch just works.

Ultra-tough and ultra-dependable, this rubber-strap Stuhrling watch just works.

By far the most casual and least expensive watch on this list, perhaps the Stuhrling Aquadiver is what you had in mind when thinking “casual watch.” A rubber strap watch is certainly the most rugged and dependable among this group, and it even performs just as a stainless steel dive watch might — that is, you can rock it in the water, on land and everywhere in between. It’s a heck of a steal for under $50, and my personal timepiece is still going strong after more than two years of use (read the full review here).

With a dearth of casual watches on the market, cutting any list off at five is tough. But brands that do dress watches well (like Daniel Wellington) also have the market cornered with more casual timepieces. MVMT Watches delivers options that certainly drift a bit louder in terms of style (like this all-black, rugged watch), but they could be a wise pickup if you’re a fan of the brand. If you fancy yourself a watch collector with some cash to burn, you could feasibly snag the same watch worn by James Bond in Spectre. Oh, man. On the slightly cheaper side of things, Shinola is even manufacturing super-rugged, sport-inspired watches that might be worth a look. If building up your watch collection is a goal of yours, start with the basics — like a brown leather dress watch — and then move into the more casual realm with picks that serve a twofold purpose. As for me? I think this list isn’t a bad place to start.

Until next time,

Stay stylish,

-Beau