August 24, 2019July 21, 2019 by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Mott & Bow Crosby Denim

A go-to pair of classic dark blue denim for any day of the week.

If you peruse the pages of The Style Guide with any frequency, there are classic men’s style brands (or newly classic men’s style brands!) that come up from time to time. Across the years, Mott & Bow has been one of those brands, a reliable producer of the best denim for men — including the utterly timeless Mott and Bow Crosby Denim as seen above. What makes them so special? That’s why we’re here, folks. (On that note, head to this link to read my Mott and Bow product review). From the brand’s classic denim shirts to its mobile, versatile classic dark blue denim, this quickly growing E-commerce brand (based in NYC) makes it surprisingly easy for guys to find a great-fitting pair of jeans, seeing as they offer fits ranging from Straight to Skinny. The Mott and Bow Crosby Denim are of the slim variety, and that should sit just right for most of us guys. And lest this all start to sound too complex or too pricey — they’re just jeans, after all — know that Mott and Bow offers a free try-on size option. And when you consider the agreeable pricing (the Mott and Bow Crosby Denim start at just $108), you’re getting a pair of the best men’s blue jeans for a downright steal.

SHOP: The Mott and Bow Crosby Denim

A fit that’s slim but not too slim, ideal for any season.

And whether or not you’ve tried a pair from them before, you should know that Mott and Bow denim doesn’t pull any punches in terms of style points or quality, either. Case in point: These stylish blue jeans are made from an agreeable 12.2oz. cotton denim & feature 2 percent elastane. In short, that means these are classic blue jeans through and through, neither too heavy (a la selvedge) or too lightweight and stretch (a la cheap jeans from a fast fashion retailer). Yes indeed, these are some of the best men’s jeans on the market — and the use of a pleasing 6-month wash. For the unitiated, that involves using a resin spray, hand scraping & drying across multiple steps — resulting in the classic Mott and Bow look and finish you see today. Because the Mott and Bow Crosby Denim are such a timeless pair of denim, that means you can wear them with everything from a charcoal Oxford shirt and classic suede chukka boots to a crisp white tee and your favorite pair of leather sneakers. And when fall rolls around, throw on a rugged chambray shirt, a classic shawl cardigan and your favorite pair of leather boots to head out for a pint (or heck, a day at the office). There’s really no wrong way to go about wearing the Mott and Bow Crosby Denim, I can guarantee that.

SHOP: The Mott and Bow Crosby Denim

January 14, 2019December 24, 2018 by Beau H.

See Now, Buy Now: This Levi’s Made & Crafted Shirt is a New Winter Favorite

A new favorite winter shirt? Try it for yourself.

The latest entry in our See Now, Buy Now series is, in short, telling you all about the best new shirt to buy for winter. Yes, that’s high praise — but it’s praise that Levi’s can back up. The Levi’s Standard Shirt ($198 at Levi’s) is one heck of a stylish shirt for winter from the remarkable Levi’s Made & Crafted line — a standout selection of goods that blends the brand’s quality and authenticity with modern, edgy style. In short, the type of gear you’ll want to wear for seasons on end. In a way, the Levi’s Standard Shirt really is anything but standard, and that’s why it’s among a host of winter style essentials you need this instant.

SHOP: The Levi’s Standard Shirt
Upgrading your shirting can help you fight winter’s chill, layer with ease & look great at the office or the bar to start the new year. Again, the Levi’s Standard Shirt helps you hit the mark in multiple areas. The Levi’s Standard Shirt comes in a variety of cool colors and patterns, just like you’d expect from a heritage-quality brand. Your author likes the African Lily pattern on the Levi’s Standard Shirt, a rich navy-and-orange blend, the best. It’s throwback-inspired and yet modern.

The Levi’s Made & Crafted Standard Shirt comes in a wide range of standout colors and patterns.

Helpfully, the Levi’s Standard Shirt is also far from your average, overly burly or baggy winter flannel shirt. The Standard Shirt is made from 100 percent cotton twill in a tailored fit, perfect for throwing on over a stylish graphic tee or a rugged winter henley in equal measure. With a buttondown point collar and a left chest pocket, it’s got all the little details you’d expect to find in an easygoing casual shirt — again, it’s the type of classic men’s shirt you can wear under a tan herringbone blazer or with a classic shawl cardigan without missing a beat. It’s an unexpected style move from a timeless brand that’s best known for its denim, but I say … go for it. Perhaps the best news of all? The Standard Shirt is going to be a perfect complement when worn with slim Levi’s denim, especially the Levi’s 511 jeans (a personal favorite). Add a warm winter bomber jacket, throw on some beat-up black boots, and head to your favorite brewpub on a chilly weekend night. The Levi’s Standard Shirt can do everything you ask of it, and then some.

SHOP: The Levi’s Standard Shirt

Like what you see? Feel free to check in with me at The Style Guide Facebook page.

November 24, 2018November 16, 2018 by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Naked & Famous Slim Fit Duck Canvas Selvage

The toughest pair of jeans in your closet? Very nearly.

If there’s one thing I know to be true,it’s that you can always count on our Style Pick of the Week series to set you up with durable, classic gear fit for any occasion — at least, that’s the goal. And in a menswear universe where, it seems, trendiness is the enemy of good taste, it pays to find men’s style essentials that you love, and then wear the crap out of ’em. That’s particularly true if you can manage to find a stylish pair of men’s denim — and that’s where the Naked & Famous Slim Fit Duck Canvas Selvage enter the equation. Now that we’ve truly hit the winter months for most of us, staying warm — and doing so with style and durability in mind — is a tall order. So, bear with me. Swapping out your slim faded denim for a hard-wearing pair of jeans like the Naked & Famous Slim Fit Duck Canvas Selvage only pays dividends in the long run; trust me on that. Made from remarkably durable selvage duck canvas — a tightly woven plainweave fabric — the Naked & Famous Slim Fit Duck Canvas Selvage Jeans are beastly and tough as heck. More like a pair of chore pants than your favorite pair of denim, yet with the same reliable fit and feel.

SHOP: The Naked & Famous Slim Fit Duck Canvas Selvage

Classic details like a nicely crafted leather patch help set these jeans apart.

And the fit is really what makes the Naked & Famous Slim Fit Duck Canvas Selvage a wise purchase — we’re talking lean and tailored, yet with room to move. That means these jeans (made in Canada, by the way) are going to sit reliably atop everything from rugged leather lace-up boots to classic chukka boots without missing a beat. That tailored fit also means you can wear the Naked & Famous Slim Fit Duck Canvas Selvage to the office with a navy cotton blazer and a blue chambray shirt — yet, these aren’t a pair of stretch denim that can’t withstand a little winter weather. I’m not saying you should wear the Naked & Famous Slim Fit Duck Canvas Selvage out on a taxing day hike, but if you want to wear these classic jeans to the office, and then to happy hour? They’ll do just fine. They represent an easy way to switch up both your business casual and off-duty ensembles — I think they’d look best with a timeless crewneck sweater and moc toe boots for a weekend coffee date. But, it’s ultimately up to you. Yessir, the Naked & Famous Slim Fit Duck Canvas Selvage aren’t trendy in the slightest — and that’s a great thing.

SHOP: The Naked & Famous Slim Fit Duck Canvas Selvage

September 1, 2018August 30, 2018 by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Flint and Tinder Stonewashed Jeans

Possibly a new daily style staple.

Don’t get it twisted: There’s a good chance the Flint and Tinder Stonewashed Jeans could become your new favorite pair of denim this fall — and certainly, well beyond that. Here we are on the first day of September, and that means it’s probably time to take a good, long look at the fall style essentials you have, and the ones you need. That is to say, a great pair of everyday denim from go-to Style Guide favorites Flint and Tinder belongs on the list. The in-house brand of our good friends at Huckberry continues to deliver on classic style essentials made (in the States!) with durability and rugged style in mind. That runs all the way from shirting to underwear to the Stonewashed Jeans you see here. I’m a big fan of the similarly constructed Flint and Tinder All-American Jeans, and the Stonewashed Jeans apply that same ethos to a fall-friendly wash. As much as I love a good pair of inky denim, it’s pleasing and fun to see a more casual-leaning pair of classic men’s jeans make their way into your rotation.

SHOP: The Flint and Tinder Stonewashed Jeans via Huckberry

Turn up the cuffs and show off the details.

You can wear ’em exactly like you’d wear your favorite pair of rich blue denim, but in a more laidback fashion (think a thermal henley, a heather grey cardigan and casual brown leather boots, to start). The Flint and Tinder Stonewashed Jeans have all the styling potential you could want this fall, and they’ll pair up just fine with every shirt in your arsenal, from flannel shirting to a classic chambray shirt or a casual long-sleeve shirt. After all, they’re just jeans, right? Not quite. What makes the Flint and Tinder Stonewashed Jeans so different? It’s easy. We’re talking a blend of cotton and stretch for crucial comfort. The slim fit (although they’re also available in Straight fit) is tapered and lean but not too tight, making them an easy match with suede Chelsea boots or leather lace-up boots … or perhaps a pair of stylish leather brogues. And although it might not seem like it, it’s surprisingly easy to incorporate the Flint and Tinder Stonewashed Jeans into work week looks — they’ll even complement a navy cotton blazer and a blue Oxford shirt at the office. The key is the unique stone wash, which gives these stylish jeans some character. So, to recap: An agreeable fit, made-in-America construction and a casual finish that’s also surprisingly easy to wear? Yessir, the Flint and Tinder Stonewashed Jeans are a big-time fall winner.

SHOP: The Flint and Tinder Stonewashed Jeans via Huckberry

August 1, 2017July 31, 2017 by Beau H.

Style Suggestion: How to Wear Dark Blue Denim This Summer

Settle in and stay for a bit – we’re talking classic style, and more specifically, how to wear dark blue denim this summer in a special Tuesday edition of our Style Suggestion series (we’ll be back with our regularly scheduled Tuesday #OOTD post next week). Now, I know what you’re thinking: “Beau, do we really need to be wearing dark denim in the summer? It’s hot out!” Well … you’re right about that. But as with plenty of other menswear essentials, there’s a way to make dark blue denim work for you in every season.

And if ever you tire of wearing slim light wash denim, it’s easy to switch back to classic dark blue jeans — like we’re doing today. In the case of the below style suggestion, that means we’re blending reliable classics – slim Taylor Stitch denim – with a stylish short-sleeve shirt. And the rest of your outfit? Well, let’s just say that these picks are just as on-point as you’d expect, from stylish sneakers for summer to a rugged casual watch and a heritage-quality leather wallet. And with that … I’ll leave you to it! Read on, shop away and shoot me a note on Twitter with any thoughts you’ve got on this #menswear ensemble.

The Classic Denim: Taylor Stitch Slim Jean in Cone Mills Standard — $98 ($68 When Signing up for Bespoke Post)

Supremely well-made, durable and stylish dark denim — just beautiful.

Here’s the crown jewel of the entire outfit, a pair of slim, classic dark denim made the right way. There might not be a better partnership in terms of rugged style and heritage quality than what Taylor Stitch has going on with Cone Mills. That means these slim blue jeans are made with only the best of the best in terms of cotton denim – that also means they’ll break in wonderfully and look great the more you wear them.

The Shirt: Taylor Stitch Short-Sleeve California Shirt in Red Madras — $118

A well-crafted, crisp short-sleeve shirt from Taylor Stitch.

Leave it to Taylor Stitch to perfect classic pieces that work in every season – like this handsome, slim short-sleeve shirt. It’s the perfect top layer for a casual, easygoing outfit – the color and fabric are unique and eye-catching. Plus, the fit and quality should be exactly as stellar as you’d expect coming from Taylor Stitch. Wear this for plenty of upcoming summer evenings through Labor Day.

The Tee: Flint and Tinder Slub Tee in Vintage Navy — $28 OR ourCaste Finley Knit in Blue Grey — $28

Two dark blue T-shirt picks for easygoing summer layering.

Layering a tee under a short-sleeve shirt might seem counterintuitive in the heat, but when you’re talking about a stylish Flint and Tinder slub tee or a uniquely textured, well-made ourCaste T-shirt, it’ll work out just fine. Either the Flint and Tinder tee or the ourCaste T-shirt give you the option to wear the Taylor Stitch madras shirt unbuttoned. The tee provides a bit of an extra layer against any summer breezes once the sun sets, too. It’s the perfect top half to wear to your next weekend BBQ.

The Footwear: Nisolo Diego — $129.98 OR SeaVees Maslon Desert Boot in Clipper Class — $108

Two finely crafted casual sneakers in unique colors.

We’re giving you two options here for casual summer sneakers, both of which make use of unique color and materials. The SeaVees Maslon Desert Boot in particular changes up your rotation from classic white leather sneakers, while the Nisolo Diego adds a bit of craftsmanship and rich quality to this outfit. Either are solid investments in terms of price. It’s worth noting that a pair of leather high-top sneakers – like the Todd Snyder x P.F. Flyers Rambler Hi – could work here, too.

The Watch: Huckberry x Lum-Tec GMT — $498 OR Aulta Acuatico Automatico — $240

Two watch picks, two durable, tough and stylish options for ya.

Since this outfit is filled with rugged, casual and yet versatile basics from the ground up, it’s fitting to offer up two rugged watch options. The Huckberry x Lum-Tec GMT is a strong, hard-wearing and noteworthy addition to any watch collection. And the Aulta Acuatico Automatico is just as functional and durable — it’s a no-fuss timepiece for a no-fuss outfit.

The Socks: Arvin Goods Crew Socks (Three-pack) — $30

A simple set of athletically inspired socks, the ideal complement to a casual outfit.

If it’s not already, your sock drawer should likely be filled up with a whole lot of Arvin Goods socks. Stylish, sustainably made, simply designed and comfortable no matter the weather – that’s the case with the brand’s no-show socks and the Arvin Goods crew socks you see here. They’ll complement the colors in this ensemble quite nicely, and that’s all there is to it.

The Belt: Sturdy Brothers Everyday Belt – $80

A handsome, well-crafted belt that’ll get better with age.

If you’ve ever encountered the issues that arise with buying cheap accessories, consider those problems solved with the handsome, rugged and incredibly well-made Sturdy Brothers Everyday Belt. Richly crafted to break in and get better with age, this Sturdy Brothers belt could become an everyday belt if you’re a guy who wears lots of stylish brown leather boots and the like.

The Grooming Essentials: Way of Will Natural Deodorant — $18 AND Way of Will Natural Body Wash — $29.50

One brand packed with grooming options to keep you fresh in the heat.

One brand – the responsibly made Way of Will – and two great options to keep you smelling fresh and looking great in the heat. The Way of Will Natural Deodorant is a marked departure in terms of quality and design compared to standard drug store deodorants, and the Way of Will Natural Body Wash is a crisply scented, finely crafted body wash that’ll come in handy every day.

The Sunglasses: J. Crew Irving Sunglasses — $118

A classically designed pair of sunglasses made for plenty of summer style scenarios.

While J. Crew sunglasses aren’t particularly cheap when you compare them to other stylish men’s sunglasses, they’re a quality investment. They provide unique looks and breezy, laidback style – the kind of style that should perfectly complement your Taylor Stitch denim and a breezy Taylor Stitch madras shirt. Throw these sunglasses on without fear – whether you’re bringing along the best beach gear or strolling to your local farmer’s market.

The Ballcap: Huckberry Explorer’s Cap — $38 OR FairEnds Brushed Cotton Ballcap — $48

Take your pick between easygoing, casual and versatile ballcaps to complement this outfit.

With a casual, subtly stylish ensemble like this one, you’re going to want accessories that hit the mark, too. A simple ballcap crafted from premium materials looks great, finishes off your outfit with some visual interest and protects your face from the sun. The Huckberry Explorer’s Cap offers up a pleasingly vintage look, while the FairEnds Brushed Cotton Ballcap is a no-nonsense hat that plays well off the Taylor Stitch madras shirt.

The Backpack: Filson Daypack — $99.98 OR Bradley Mountain Scout Backpack — $219

Add a rugged, ridiculously well-made backpack to finish off this outfit.

I do love a stylish messenger bag as much as the next guy, but there are certain situations that call for style that’s a little more functional and efficient. For hopping around from bar to bar, heading out on a stroll around town or loading up gear to take on a casual day trip, either the heritage-quality Filson Daypack or the Bradley Mountain Scout Backpack are going to get the job done. Two bags, two rugged, casual and yet versatile options to add to your everyday carry gear.

The Wallet: Bellroy Travel Wallet in Cocoa — $120 ($79 When Signing Up for Bespoke Post)

A heritage-quality wallet that should get a ton of use going forward.

Let’s leave no stone unturned in the way of your everyday carry. The Bellroy Travel Wallet could be the last wallet you need to buy for a long time – it’s that well-made. Crucially, it’s also available for a heck of a deal when you sign up for Bespoke Post. Like the Filson Daypack or the Sturdy Brothers Everyday Belt, it’s an accessory that’s going to get better with age – that much is absolutely true.

We covered a lot of ground there, didn’t we? Wearing dark blue denim in the summer is easy when you keep it crisp, simple and casual. The Taylor Stitch slim jeans you see above are made to break in over time while looking terrific – that much is true. And when you complement them with easygoing basics – like the Flint and Tinder Vintage Slub Tee or the ourCaste Finley Knit – you should be set for lazy backyard cookouts or a day-long upstate exploration.

Complementing reliable essentials with versatile, stylish summer sneakers is also a critical step to keep in mind. Without a doubt, either the Nisolo Diego or the SeaVees Maslon Desert Boot are going to treat you just fine. And when it comes to your everyday carry – as critical a component as any – the rugged Huckberry x Lum-Tec GMT or the Aulta Acuatico Automatico are both reliable watches. Of course, don’t leave home without a bag like the Filson Daypack – agreed? Lastly, grab the Sturdy Brothers Everyday Belt and the Bellroy Travel Wallet if you want to accessorize in style. Have a better handle on how to wear dark blue denim? I hope so! Follow me on Instagram to see how I style my dark blue denim, and I’m looking forward to hearing from ya in the comments.

Stay stylish!

-Beau

June 17, 2017June 10, 2017 by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Flint and Tinder All-American Washed Jeans

Available in either Slim or Straight fits, the Flint and Tinder All-American Washed Jeans are a versatile summer style option.

Before we kick things off — yes, I’m definitely recommending denim in the summer. More specifically, I’m recommending the Flint and Tinder All-American Washed Jeans, the latest addition to the brand’s stellar, ever-growing lineup of summer style essentials-. Flint and Tinder is the in-house, American-made brand from my pals at Huckberry, if you’re not familiar. However, if you read our Style Pick of the Week series at The Style Guide, you’re surely well-acquainted with the consistently stylish, rugged and versatile work being done by Flint and Tinder. Despite the summer heat, stylish light wash jeans definitely belong on your seasonal shopping list — they work on breezy summer nights or for summer travel style in equal measure, and Flint and Tinder certainly knows how to make ’em. The brand’s skill set encompasses comfortable favorites, like the Flint and Tinder Garment-Dyed Sweatpants, as well as breezy transitional layering pieces like the Flint and Tinder Slub Henley. And crucially, if you’ve been in need of sharp, versatile denim to add to your closet, the Flint and Tinder All-American Washed Jeans are the way to go. Truly, you shouldn’t count out denim in the summer months — with either Slim or Straight fit options available, the All-American Washed Jeans are crafted for just about any casual style situation you face. And they’ve got the durable, rugged specs for plenty of wear, including construction that’s encompasses made-in-the-USA quality.

A classic button fly and quality cotton denim — plus a unique wash — make the Flint and Tinder All-American Jeans very worthy of your dollars this summer.

The quality starts with a custom-designed 11oz. cotton denim from the lauded denim purveyors at North Carolina’s White Oak Cone Mills Denim — they make absolutely the finest-quality stuff in the United States. As part of the process, each pair of All-American Washed Jeans are unique thanks to a hand-washing and weaving process — no two pairs are alike. The vintage wash treatment also makes these jeans soft and comfortable, complete with a hint of helpful stretch. That means you should feel free to wear them with easygoing staples like a slim striped tee and classic suede chukkas at your next casual patio dinner or stylish summer barbecue. And because of the two polished fit options — again, Straight fit is available if you’re partial to that direction — you can even wear them to the office. Not sold? Try the All-American Washed Jeans with a slim white polo, leather tassel loafers and a lightweight khaki blazer to start.

For more easygoing style, try them out with your favorite pair of summer sneakers and a slim short-sleeve henley — add in a rugged dive watch, and you’re particularly well-dressed for hitting up a summer baseball game or grabbing some brews with your buddies. And because they’re American-made, you’re getting quality that’s built to last well through this summer. The great thing about well-made denim in a vintage wash is that it can even pull double duty come fall — keep these handy to wear with a shawl-collar cardigan and tough leather boots to step through falling leaves (seriously!). Are you a fan of the All-American Washed Jeans? If they’re on your shopping list, let me know over on Twitter. Remember: You can (and should!) make stylish light wash jeans part of your summer wardrobe.

That’s it, that’s all I’ve got today! For now — thanks for reading!

-Beau

February 7, 2017January 22, 2017 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.

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.

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

January 31, 2017February 7, 2017 by Beau H.

#OOTD: Rugged Winter 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.

Every once in a while, you just want to mix up your style — right? Maybe if you’re a guy who frequently suits up , you feel compelled to dress down off-duty. Even if you find yourself dressing in business casual style for the office — rather than a suit — it still pays to have a few go-to, off-the-clock looks on-hand. And when you throw in the dual challenges of navigating winter weather while looking sharp, it adds another piece to the puzzle. That’s what we’re tackling today — we’ll get a bit out of the box in terms of classic winter style and go just a tad more casual and a tad more rugged. The basic building blocks of a crisp winter ensemble are still there — starting with classic dark denim and tough leather boots — but the way in which the outfit builds from the ground up will hopefully get you thinking about ways to refresh your style this year. Intrigued yet? Check out the full #OOTD below, and join us on Instagram and Facebook for more #menswear content, 24/7.

Layering up a shawl cardigan for rugged winter style — as the post title implies.

The Cardigan: Iron & Resin Fletcher Cardigan,$110.98 — Here at the dear old Style Guide, we sure do love a shawl-collar cardigan. And seeing as this one is available via Huckberry in a warm cotton-fleece blend, it’s worth the buy. You could always add a crisp, functional Outerknown parka if you need an extra layer.

The Henley: Bonobos Slub Jersey Henley in Off-White Microstripe, $55 — Shawl-collar cardigan? Check. Rugged henley? Check. It’s as classic and comfortable of a winter style combo as it gets.

The Scarf: S.N.S Herning Torso Scarf, $96.60 — Nearly a hundred bucks is a lot to drop on a scarf — but when it provides significant warmth and style to rival that of the revered Daniel Craig in “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo,” it’s worth doing.

The Denim: Nudie Jeans Grim Tim Denim, $124.98 — Whether you consider yourself a rock star or not, there’s something to be said for owning a slick, slim pair of black denim. The Grim Tim is that pair — and they’re a nice way to switch it up from dark indigo selvedge, too.

The Boots: G.H. Bass Buxton Boots, $425 — We talk a lot about investment-worthy purchases that convey great style and timeless appeal — the G.H. Bass Buxton Boots are one such purchase, and they add a bit of a unique contrast to the black denim.

The Socks: Wigwam Merino Lite Hiker Socks, $12.98 — Sometimes, you just need comfortable, functional socks that fight the chill — if that’s the case, pick up a couple pairs of these Merino Lite Hiker Socks.

The Watch: Standard Issue Instruments Pilot Mission Timer, $199.98 — Yet another standout piece of gear sold by Huckberry, the Pilot Mission Timer is tough, practical and rugged. Don’t worry about the black strap-brown boots color combo — it works in this casual ensemble.

The Hat: Columbiaknit Watch Cap, $17 — Just like the Merino Lite Hiker Socks, functionality and warmth is sometimes the name of the game. This cap is more than fairly priced, too.

The Gloves: Hestra Granvik Gloves, $180 — They might not be pictured in the above grid, but that doesn’t mean you don’t need reliable, tough winter gloves — Hestra is the place to go in this case.

Alright, let’s bundle up and get out there this winter. When you start with well-fitting basics — like a slub jersey henley — and add a tough-yet-comfortable Iron & Resin shawl-collar cardigan, you’ve got the foundation of a warm winter outfit. In fact, it’s this very outfit that I frequently find myself wearing when it’s chilly. At any rate, slim black denim and rough-and-tumble leather boots are essentials in any season, especially cold weather, and the overlooked details — like warm winter socks and a nice winter hat — are just as critical to keep in mind before you step outside. And if it’s a new watch you need, something as functional and dependable as the Pilot Mission Timer should get you where you’re going with plenty of time to spare. Any questions? Comments? Feedback? Let me know in the comments below!

Stay warm out there and thanks for reading,

-Beau

November 28, 2016November 27, 2016 by Beau H.

Turkey time: Celebrating a Florida Thanksgiving

A sporty, stylish combination. Polo by QOR. Capital Shorts by OLIVERS Apparel. Gratton Sneakers by Fronteer. Calypso Watch by MVMT Watches. Sunglasses by Nautica.

A sporty, stylish combination for a sunny long weekend in Florida. Heather Merino Knit Polo by QOR. Capital Shorts by OLIVERS Apparel. Gratton Sneakers by Fronteer. Calypso Watch by MVMT Watches. Sunglasses by Nautica.

Whenever I hit the road, I always look forward to packing in style. And when I get the chance to head south to Florida, visit with family and chow down on amazing Thanksgiving food? That’s all the better. Spending the holidays in a warm-weather locale like Florida is a change of pace from your Style Guide author’s past holidays growing up in Michigan, so the garb I packed with me has changed accordingly over the years. It’s a bit disconcerting sometimes to go from rugged fall style in NYC to spending time on the beach in Florida, but I always look forward to doing so. And just as with my August trip to Florida, I loaded up plenty of warm-weather gear fit for versatile style situations — including Thanksgiving dinner, brewery-hopping and lots of time spent in the sun.

Gear for the office, a flight and Florida style. Crosstown Bomber by Public Rec. Slim-Fit Tapered Leg 5-Pocket Pants by Dickies. Strayhorn Mid Sneakers by JackThreads. Waterbury Chrono by Timex x Red Wing Heritage. Sunglasses by Nautica. Chapter Travel Kit by Herschel Supply Co.

As always with traveling from NYC to a warm climate like Florida, I sought to pack gear that would move seamlessly from a chilly NYC work day to breezy Florida in style. That meant selecting the ever-versatile, comfortable Public Rec Crosstown Bomber— it’s the sort of jacket that layered easily over my classic Old Navy chambray shirt. And my Dickies Slim-Fit Tapered Leg 5-Pocket Pants were more than ready for a day at the office and a flight back home, as were my new CLAE x JackThreads Strayhorn Mid Sneakers. The chukka-style hybrid silhouette and grey wool upper proved stylish for the work day and helped me breeze through security. And, I had to bring along my Timex x Red Wing Heritage Waterbury Chrono for a dash of rugged-refined style for the office and fall travel. On the footwear front, I had to break out my Jack Erwin Cooper Boat Shoes from storage — the next time you’ve got to tackle warm weekend weather in style, you should look to pack a similar pair. Of course, I took along toiletries from the likes of Nivea for Men — the brand’s Creme works as a hand, body and face moisturizer, so it’s a do-it-all travel essential. And throughout my trip, my retro-inspired Nautica sunglasses and the slick, new MVMT Watches Runaway Aviators proved stylish accessory options for the Florida sun. Seriously, never underestimate the power of a stylish pair of men’s sunglasses. So, with stylish travel gear in tow and a quick flight home in the books, it was onto a fun Thanksgiving holiday weekend.

The day on Wednesday — as one would expect — dawned sunny and pretty hot. With that in mind, I reached for the stretchy, stylish and tailored OLIVERS Apparel Capital Short, as seen at the very top of the page. The versatile color paired up well with another sport-inspired, hybrid piece — a new Heather Merino Knit Polo from performance apparel purveyors QOR. Its tailored look is offset by the merino blend fabric, which wicks sweat and dries quickly. And the comfortable combo paired up well with a new set of kicks — the FRONTEER Super Gratton high-top sneakers, provided courteously by the FRONTEEER team. With their unique design and a silhouette inspired by functional outdoor boots, they’re a nice lifestyle hybrid sneaker. They worked for grabbing a delicious Maple Bacon Donut at the renowned Bennett’s Fresh Roast and hitting the beach. For hitting up Fort Myers Brewing Company later, the brand-new Calypso Watch from the recently launched MVMT Watches Modern Sport collection was a prime, affordable pick. It was also a nice chance to break out a stylish pair of retro-inspired sunglasses from Nautica, and the combination of sport-inspired and functional pieces held up well for Florida exploration — and a few outdoor brews!

Hanging out in classic Florida fashion. Thomas Pacific Latitude Shirt by Bridge & Burn. Slim Chinos in Light Stone by Taylor Stitch. Cooper Boat Shoes by Jack Erwin. Runaway Aviators by MVMT Watches. Waterbury Chrono by Timex x Red Wing Heritage.

And with an enjoyable Wednesday in the books, it was onto an even more enjoyable Thanksgiving. Now, unlike dressing for a casual fall day, our Florida Thanksgiving celebrations required significantly fewer layers than an NYC November day. With that in mind, it made it easy to reach for the Thomas Pacific Latitude Print Shirt, also from Bridge & Burn. Although that shirt is sold out, you can’t go wrong reaching for any of a selection of similar stylish short-sleeved shirts the next time you find yourself in a warm locale for a holiday. The same goes for the ever-classic Taylor Stitch Slim Chinos in Light Stone — any chance you get to pick up durable, high-quality and classic Taylor Stitch menswear (especially the brand’s lauded chinos), I’d recommend you take it. I found the combo worked quite nicely once again with my Jack Erwin Cooper Boat Shoes and the always-stylish Timex x Red Wing Heritage Waterbury Chrono for eating second (and third) helpings of Thanksgiving dinner. And the whole ensemble was polished-yet-casual enough for family Thanksgiving — no expandable waistband in sight on those Taylor Stitch chinos, although it would’ve helped.

Brewery hopping in the Florida sun. Vesper Polo by Mack Weldon. Stringer Dune Shorts by Bridge & Burn. Cooper Boat Shoes by Jack Erwin. Mod Watch by Timex x Todd Snyder. Vintage ballcap by Goorin Brothers. Glasses by Frameri.

Of course, Friday presented another absolutely beautiful Florida day, and a prime chance to break out some of my best warm-weather menswear again for a little in-person Black Friday shopping and strolling. (And, let’s be honest — a trip to the excellent Big Blue Brewing was in order). The lightweight, breathable and slim Vesper Polo from the fine folks at Mack Weldon was just what the doctor ordered — and it teamed nicely with my ever-essential Stringer Dune Shorts from Bridge & Burn. It was a bit strange to wear warm-weather gear after a chilly NYC fall, but I adjusted easily thanks to stylish pieces like the always-reliable Jack Erwin Cooper Boat Shoes — they’re the rare type of boat shoe that’s refined, and exceedingly easy to wear for both beachside and city exploration. What’s more, my always-reliable Timex x Todd Snyder Mod Watch had to make the trip, too — I think if you pre-order one for yourself, you’ll be mighty surprised at just how much you’ll be reaching for this casual-yet-versatile timepiece. I’d also recommend you reach for an upgraded, subtly designed ballcap if you need to protect your face from the sun — my Goorin Brothers vintage ballcap (unfortunately sold out now) is a perennial favorite. To snag a similar style for yourself, check out the Huckberry Explorer’s Cap. With that gear in tow, it made for a fun, easygoing day strolling around the neat artists’ village of Matlacha — and if ever you find yourself in the Fort Myers area, Point Ybel Brewing is worth a stop to cap off your day.

In awe of the amazing creations at the American Sandsculpting Championship. Anything Shirt by Strongbody Apparel. Chambray shorts by Canvas by Lands’ End. Cooper Boat Shoes by Jack Erwin. Mod Watch by Timex x Todd Snyder. Vintage ballcap by Goorin Brothers. Sunglasses by Nautica.

And no Florida trip would be complete without a little beach relaxation and a trip to the American Sandsculpting Championship on Fort Myers Beach — right? I made sure to bring along stylish beach gear for some fun in the sun. That gear included the comfortable, sweat-wicking Anything Shirt by Strongbody Apparel, plus a pair of tailored chambray shorts from Canvas by Lands’ End. Of course, my Cooper Boat Shoes helped me out quite nicely for navigating the sand and the city, as did my Nautica sunglasses. If you’ve got to pack relatively light, versatile accessories and footwear that work for multiple situations can undoubtedly help ease the burden of lugging around a heavy weekender bag.

The durable Calypso Watch from MVMT Watches teamed nicely with my SeaVees Legend Sneakers.

I also switched up my outfit for an evening out and about in Fort Myers (including a requisite viewing of the new “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them,” an excellent Harry Potter film). That meant reaching for a tailored short-sleeve gingham shirt from Banana Republic, along with a pair of tailored Canvas by Lands’ End shorts. I also looked forward to breaking out my crisp white SeaVees Legend Sneakers, a go-anywhere set of kicks that works for both casual and business casual situations. My durable, stylish Calypso Watch from MVMT Watches was once again up to the task — I’ll be getting a ton of use out of that timepiece in the weeks and months to come. And as to the movie? If you’re a Harry Potter fan, you should absolutely check out the incredibly awesome expansion of the HP universe… but back to menswear, ehh?

Just the right gear to hit the road back to NYC. Crosstown Bomber by Public Rec. Voyager Waxed Weekender by Owen & Fred. Waterbury Chrono by Timex x Red Wing Heritage. Strayhorn Mid Sneakers by CLAE x JackThreads. Utility Bifold by Tanner Goods. Vintage ballcap by Goorin Brothers.

It seems that every time I head to Florida, it gets tougher to leave — especially after a great holiday with family and some beautiful warm weather. But with that being said, it was time to pack up to head back to NYC — to deal with the impending cold weather, I again grabbed my Public Rec Crosstown Bomber and the versatile, travel-friendly CLAE x JackThreads Strayhorn Mid Sneakers. I packed up my gear in my dependable Owen & Fred Voyager Waxed Weekender, which has more than capably stood up to the demands of both summer and fall travel across the past few months. Of course, my travel watch pick was an easy one — my Timex x Red Wing Heritage Waterbury Chrono hasn’t yet let me down! And when it comes time to add to your everyday carry, the Tanner Goods Utility Bifold is a wallet I’d certainly recommend.

So, with that gear in my bag, I hopped a crowded flight back to NYC — and already, we’re back in action and looking ahead to the holiday season. I had an amazing, fun, relaxing and reflective time in Florida — being able to dress in style was just icing on the cake. But you really can’t put a price on time spent with family — can you? What’s more, I’m already looking forward to being back to Florida for Christmas next month. I hope you enjoyed your Thanksgiving in style, and I hope you’re ready for a busy holiday season at The Style Guide — tomorrow, you can look for a seasonally appropriate #OOTD entry, and Wednesday, we’ll tell you exactly how to dress for your next holiday party. Beyond that, you can expect the best menswear on tap with our Style Pick of the Week series, and more holiday men’s style ideas galore.

Thanks so much for reading — stay stylish!

-Beau

November 16, 2016November 16, 2016 by Beau H.

Reader Giveaway Opportunity: Dickies X-Series Denim

Editor’s note: Stick around The Style Guide for more seasonal menswear suggestions. And read on for a special reader giveaway opportunity!

Contemplating this great Dickies X-Series denim giveaway in Prospect Park. The X-Series 5-Pocket Pant is pictured here. Japanese flannel from the Dickies 1922 line. Waxed Cotton Field Jacket by Johnston & Murphy. Color No. 8 Diplomat Boots by Thursday Boots. Waterbury Chrono by Timex x Red Wing Heritage. Glasses by Frameri.

Maybe it’s because your Style Guide author lives and breathes menswear, but it can be pretty darn fun to discover new and unexpected things about brands you thought you knew. Take Dickies, for example. The classic workwear brand has nearly 100 years of history to its name, and a long lineage of outfitting workers for both everyday and more extreme situations. That includes military uniform production during World War II, and commercial production thereafter. Maybe you wore their overalls or hooded jackets — or still do — on the job. However, there’s more to the brand now than workwear — and that, of course, is why we’re here today. The brand has taken a nuanced, measured approach to lifestyle gear in the past few years, including its heritage-focused 1922 line. That approach extends through to its X-Series denim, a run of both slim and straight-cut jeans and five-pocket pants made with soft-yet-durable ringspun cotton and flexible fabric. The even better part? From the Slim Fit Tapered Leg variety to the Slim Fit Straight Leg option or the Skinny Fit iterations, you’re looking at denim that’s priced at about $30 — seriously, $30. Who would’ve thought? It was definitely refreshing to learn about the brand’s revamped approach at an NYC showcase event this past September, and after taking a pair of the Slim Fit Tapered Leg jeans with me on both a fall weekend trip to Providence and an October trip back to Michigan, I can vouch for the quality, comfort and fit, through and through. I also had the good fortune to check out a pair of the Slim Fit Tapered Leg 5-Pocket Pants, done up in a comfortable ringspun twill and pictured at the top of the page. They really are perfect for fall style, particularly when teamed with a soft Japanese Flannel Shirt from the brand’s 1922 line.

I’ve also found that the dark-wash pairs of X-series denim pair well with everything from my trusty Taylor Stitch Long Haul Jacket and a chambray shirt to a slim V-neck sweater and leather chukka boots — and I’m sure you will, too! Why’s that? Well, we’re giving one lucky winner — sorry, just one — the option to win their favorite pair of Dickies X-Series denim! Just follow the instructions via this link, and there you have it! Good luck, and thanks for reading!

To win one pair of Dickies X-Series denim of your choice, follow the instructions in this link.

Editor’s note: This contest ends at 12 a.m., Thursday, November 17th.

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Tag / best men’s denim

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Turkey time: Celebrating a Florida Thanksgiving

Reader Giveaway Opportunity: Dickies X-Series Denim