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)

Taylor Stitch denim

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

Taylor Stitch

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

Flint and Tinder

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

SeaVees

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.
Greats

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

Sturdy Brothers

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

J. Crew men's sunglasses

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.

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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

Filson Daypack

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.
Florsheim
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.
Timex

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

See You at the Show: Attending Panorama 2017 In Style

The perfect setting for a selfie in the background, perhaps? Going with a mixture of laidback style and classic #menswear essentials — including my Original Penguin Utility Shirt, Flint and Tinder denim and Component sunglasses — for a great day of live music on Friday.

If you’re a regular reader of The Style Guide, you might have an inkling that I love live music — anytime, anywhere. So when I heard earlier this year that Panorama 2017 was coming back to the Big Apple — and just a quick subway ride away at that — I jumped on tickets in a hurry. These weekends always seem to go by too fast — having attended Governors Ball 2017 earlier this summer, I know that all too well. Indeed, it’s tough to believe that once again, another excellent Panorama music festival has come and gone. I’m so fortunate to be able to attend this excellent NYC music showcase — for the second year in a row, I had a tremendous time  (to say the least!).  It was with anticipation, excitment and essential summer style in mind that I hit the road — well, the subway — to head to a hot and breezy weekend of music at Randall’s Island. If you follow me on Instagram, you might be well-acquainted with my love of live music and craft beer — and this weekend had requisite helpings of both. Plug in and join me, won’t you?

The key when dressing for a music festival revolves around nailing that tricky balance between comfort, style and easygoing looks. When plenty of festival-goers throw on cargo shorts and sports jersey — at least here in NYC — it can be easy to fall into a style trap. Yet, I’m here to urge you not to do that! And I certainly tried my best to keep my style in line in terms of great fit and comfort in the heat. As it were, I also had to prep accordingly by listening to my favorite tunes — as you’ll see below, my stylish and well-made LSTN Sound Co. headphones from the Bespoke Post Vibes Box were the ideal accessory.

Panorama 2017

A mix of useful essentials — like my Original Penguin Garment-Dyed Utility Shirt — and tried-and-true favorites, like my Timex x Todd Snyder Military Watch 2.0 and classic Astorflex chukkas.

That process started with my Original Penguin Garment Dye Utility Shirt, the perfect blend of style and well, utility (I used it to store small items in the chest pocket). The Burnt Olive color is a unique shade that works well in both spring and summer — and heck, fall and winter — and it teamed nicely with faded Flint and Tinder All-American Washed Jeans. Not a full-on light wash  and not a pair of classic dark blue denim, these American-made jeans feature a pleasingly faded wash and a tapered cut that’s not too tight — crucial when dealing with the sweltering NYC sun. I also teamed them with another multi-season pick, my casual and classic Astorflex Greenflex Chukka Boots.  The sustainably made chukka boots fit the bill in terms of a comfortable and easy-to-wear summer style essential. To finish the look and stay relatively cool in the heat, I rolled my slim light wash denim and slipped on some stylish no-show socks, complemented by my tough, versatile Timex x Todd Snyder Military Watch 2.0. Once again, to get prepped for a day of listening to live music, I had to reach for my Bespoke Post Vibes Box and plug in with my LSTN Sound Co. headphones.

Needless to say, my gear proved quite helpful at navigating Panorama’s mix of beer stands, gourmet food offerings and stages. Crucially, I snagged a good spot near the main stage to see one of my favorite acts of late — passionate Baltimore-based synth rockers Future Islands. On a monumental tour behind their latest album, the excellent and emotionally charged “The Far Field,” it was a treat to see the power and raw emotion of that record brought to life by energetic frontman Sam Herring. If you get the chance, I’d urge you to see them — and you can check out more of my music-related adventures on my “other” Twitter account over here. Of course, playing right before mid-2000s hitmakers MGMT is a tough act for anyone, but Future Islands more than prepped the crowd for a high-energy MGMT set. Excellent acts were scattered throughout the day, including crowd-pleasing folk crooner Vance Joy and the evening’s two closing acts, Solange and Frank Ocean. To be able to see such variety of music within one day — and on a series of stages just a quick walk apart — is a huge benefit of a well-curated festival like Panorama. It had me just as excited for day two — time to press on!

Panorama NYC

Taking on the heat with my breezy Original Penguin Scout Shorts, classic SeaVees sneakers and a well-made Taylor Stitch shirt.

Saturday unsurprisingly promised a hot, humid and yet overcast day of excellent live music, tasty craft beer and again, gourmet bites & great #menswear. In all, that’s my kind of day. With the promise of laidback, eclectic sets on the way fro Alt-j and Tame Impala , plus an emotionally charged set by powerful Brooklyn rocker Mitski, I dressed to beat the heat in style. That meant once again reaching for Original Penguin gear — my Stretch Cotton Garment-Dye Scout Shorts featured a tailored cut, breathable fabric and excellent mobility for hopping from stage to stage. For long hours on my feet, I stepped into a dependable pair of classic SeaVees sneakers — always an excellent pick in terms of easygoing, subtle style. I’d urge you to pick up a pair  of SeaVees for your next festival, and perhaps team it with a rugged Taylor Stitch shirt, as I did. The number you see above is the well-made Taylor Stitch Jack Shirt in Indigo Star. To keep the sun off my face, I threw on a charcoal Huckberry Explorer’s Cap for suitably easygoing style and protection from the sun.

And the entire combo helped me move around the festival with ease — that gave me plenty of time to take in Mitski’s set. Having seen her play in front of 300 people on Valentine’s Day 2016 and nearly 2,000 people this past spring at Brooklyn Steel, it was an absolute treat to  see her take a large festival atmosphere and boil it down into power and emotion. And I was just as pleased with the excellent vibes and quirky sound that Alt-j brought to the Pavilion Stage. Truly, they didn’t disappoint with their most recent release, the edgy, well-crafted “Relaxer,” and it was neat to see them translate that record into a live show — along with modern indie radio hits like “Left Hand Free” and “Breezeblocks,” plus subtly beautiful tracks like “Something Good” and “Dissolve Me.”


Tame Impala also proved a huge highlight of the day. I was captured by the band’s absolutely killer light show back in 2015 on a Sunday evening at Governors Ball, and the Aussie group delivered yet again with a blazing headline set to close out the evening. It was the perfect way to round out two days of fun, unique and tremendous live music — count me a huge fan of Panorama, and know that I’ll be back next year if they deliver again on a great lineup and a great experience!

Easygoing, breezy essentials for a Sunday of rest and relaxation in Brooklyn — I can’t recommend my Huckberry Explorer’s Cap or Grayers Feeder Stripe Polo enough!

The weekend wasn’t over yet, though — I had more than enough time to rest, relax and hit up sunny Prospect Park and my favorite coffee/menswear shop, Upstate Stock. For a breezy Sunday, I prepped accordingly — that process started with my comfortable and modern Grayers Feeder Stripe Polo, an easy-to-wear piece that fits well and feels great. I complemented that shirt with a pair of modern, tailored Volcom slim chinos in a crisp navy color. Comfortable, well-fitting slim chinos that can go anywhere — from exploring a park to hitting up a coffee shop — are a must when hopping around Brooklyn, and these didn’t disappoint.


Lest we forget about sneakers, I teamed my chinos up with my easygoing, retro-inspired Abercrombie and Fitch x Tretorn Sneakers and the refined-yet-casual Electric California Carroway Leather Watch (a timepiece you might remember from this #OOTD on how to wear a T-shirt this summer). At any rate, the breezy Brooklyn weather also gave me the chance to break out my trusty Huckberry Explorer’s Cap, this one in a deep shade of green that played nicely off the blues of the chinos and the polo. Seriously, if you want a stylish, vintage-inspired ballcap that’s also made in America, the Huckberry Explorer’s Cap is the way to go — particularly for keeping the sun off your face following a long weekend out and about at a music festival.

It was with a great weekend of live music playing in my head that I took in a restful, relaxing Sunday (filled with some requisite work on The Style Guide, of course). I’m always thankful and grateful any time I get to combine my passions into one weekend. Between breaking out some excellent menswear, enjoying delicious craft beer and rocking out to stellar bands like Future Islands, I absolutely can’t get enough of Panorama — it makes me feel fortunate to live in NYC, to say the least! There are more music and men’s style adventures coming up soon — and if you continue reading this blog, there might be more travel style content coming sooner than you think! For now, you can follow along with our #OOTD series tomorrow.

As always … thanks for reading!

-Beau

Style Pick of the Week: Jack Mason Aviator Watch

 

Jack Mason

A no-nonsense timepiece designed with aviation elements and versatile casual style.

Who doesn’t love adding to an ever-growing watch collection? For your Style Guide author, a watch is an essential accessory available in seemingly endless options — but when you find the right watch, you know it unequivocally. If you follow me on Instagram, you know that I certainly can’t pass up a stylish watch. And if you need a new one of your own … well, that’s the journey we’re embarking on today. In fact, your search for a stylish new watch might start and end with the Jack Mason Aviator Watch — it’s potentially the perfect casual watch, a blend of handsome and crisp style at an affordable price point. It’ll work right now — the depths of summer — and the rest of the year. Rest assured, the watch we’re discussing today belongs on any list of the best men’s gear to buy now — and it’s certainly not too good to be true.  Jack Mason draws on classic, masculine influences to design its crisply appointed timepieces — good news if that’s what you’re into stylistically. Blending elements and detailing drawn from pilot and field watches, the results are definitely very, very covetable — take the Jack Mason Nautical Three-Hand Watch, a personal favorite of this author. And that same rugged-yet-wearable ethos shines through with the affordably priced, accessible Jack Mason Aviator Watch. It’s striking in nearly every way, from the surprisingly wearable black dial-brown leather strap combo to the clean design and the durable (yet not overwhelming) 42mm case diameter. In short, it’s the watch to buy now — and wear now.

Jack Mason

A durable-yet-wearable 42mm case diameter and handsome brown leather strap finish off the Jack Mason Aviator Watch quite nicely.

Among many other positives, the Aviator Watch is available to you for the low price of $150 when you sign up for Bespoke Post— gotta love those deals, ehh? And the value in terms of style points? It’ll far surpass the price tag. Like any versatile, stylish watch, it can team up with casual style combos — think a grey pocket tee, slim blue denim and leather high-top sneakers — or dressier ensembles (say, a cotton suit at your next casual summer wedding). It’ll seriously look great all year, a testament to its simple-yet-effective design rooted in field-ready functionality. If that sounds like it’s in your wheelhouse, then step right on up and pick up the Jack Mason Aviator Watch. Wary of buying from a relatively upstart brand? Know that the folks at Jack Mason have put in the work to back up their products (and it helps that they design watches in the hard-to-handle Texas heat). In testing out Jack Mason watches, I can vouch for their quality and durability — to go along with versatile and easily wearable style, that is. If the Aviator Watch isn’t quite your speed, Jack Mason also makes a host of other crisp, eye-catching watches, all geared toward go-anywhere looks. From racing-inspired chronographs to simple field watches, there’s a watch for every taste. And yet… there’s something about the no-frills style potential of the Aviator Watch. Do you agree? And will you be buying any timepieces from Jack Mason this summer? Let me know in the comments. For now — let’s take on the weekend in style!

Thanks for reading,

-Beau

Style Suggestion: Wear This Casual Outfit to Work Remotely

OK, step right on up — we’re talking today on The Style Guide about a somewhat difficult style conundrum that seems to be popping up more often in today’s economy of the 21st century. To get right to the point: We’re covering the best #menswear to wear to work remotely — so, how to dress for comfort and style when working from home, working on the road or working from your favorite Brooklyn coffee shop (as I so often do on weekends and my days off from the old day job).  One thing is clear — you need plenty of the best men’s gear to keep you going. And what are my top picks (and possibly yours, too)?The trick is to keep it simple, stylish and certatinly not sloppy. Think a bit like a business casual look, yet … more casual. And yes, even if you’re not in the office, dressing a bit better ramps up your focus and productivity just a bit. Let’s start with a classic Oxford shirt and team it with other reliable basics — slim grey chinos, a trusty pair of classic suede chukka boots and other favorites — including a timeless leather watch and plenty more.  Are you ready? Let’s gear up to get to work. Chime in with your thoughts on this #OOTD on Twitter, and catch my daily ensembles on Instagram. Thanks for reading!

The Shirt: Flint and Tinder Texas-Made Oxford in White — $89

Flint and Tinder

A crisp, classic and clean white Oxford — great even for working from a coffee shop.

The great folks at Flint and Tinder do so many things so well, and you can now add a stylish Oxford shirt to that offering.  There’s a reason the classic Oxford shirt is a menswear staple — it’s among the men’s shirts out there, it’s timeless and it looks great on every guy. It also adds some needed polish to even the most laidback of ensembles — I’m not saying you can wear it with slim sweatpants, but I am saying it’ll clean up in a jiffy if you need to throw on a navy blazer to head to an unexpected meeting as you work remotely. Plus, it’ll work stylishly through all four seasons. Not bad at all, ehh?

The Tee: Outerknown Pagoda Stripe Tee — $53.98

Outerknown

A reliable tee that’ll work nicely for layering — and sustainable style.

In the name of adding visual interest to your white Oxford shirt, we’re throwing on a slim striped tee underneath. It serves a dual purpose — coffee shops can be a bit chilly if the A/C is blasting, so a tee helps add both comfort and style. Oh, and since it’s from Outerknown, your purchase of this tee champions the brand’s mission of sustainable style. First seen in a Style Pick of the Week entry, this pleasingly textured shirt is a reliable second layer — you can even ditch the shirt and wear only the Outerknown Pagoda Stripe Tee (which I’d also support).

The Mid-Layer: Life/After/Denim Awash Hoodie in Dark Blue — $80

Life/After/Denim

Absolutely more than a hoodie — absolutely the nicest hooded sweatshirt you’ll buy.

As we mentioned above, coffee shops can get a tad chilly. And if you happen to be holed up working away, you might just want another layer to keep you cool and comfortable (you’ll hear that word a lot in this post). We’re not just throwing on a ratty hoodie and calling it a day, though. Life/After/Denim takes everyday basics for the stylish guy and amps them up a bit, focusing on excellent fabrics and just-right construction. That’s what makes the Awash Hoodie such a neat buy — it’s a refined hoodie that wouldn’t look out of place over a classic Oxford.

The Pants: Outerknown Ditch Crop Pants — $99.98

Outerknown

A pair of laidback, casual-yet-stylish chino pants that work for everyday wear.

Once again, Outerknown pops up in this style suggestion, partly due to the brand’s emphasis on easygoing-yet-sharp styles and partly due to its commitment to sustainability.  Both are important to consider, and it should make purchasing the Outerknown Ditch Crop Pants that much easier.  The versatile grey color goes with just about any off-duty style combo you can dream up, while the tapered and cropped fit offers more room to show off your classic suede chukka boots. Speaking of…

Timex

The Boots: Astorflex Greenflex in Dark Chestnut — $145

Astorflex

A wear-with-anything set of chukkas that’ll look better than plain sneakers.

We here at The Style Guide love our versatile chukka boots –any time of the year. Bear with me — this particular pair, made sustainably by Astorflex, incorporates plenty of comfort and a very wearable silhouette. They’re timeless and laidback, easy to take on and off, and polished enough to team up with more refined pieces in a hurry. And they provide a nice, earthy contrast to the slim grey chino pants and white Oxford.  There’s certainly a lot to like — no, love — about the Astorflex Greenflex.

The Socks: Arvin Goods Casual Socks (Three-pack) — $36

Arvin Goods

Well-made socks that are far from flashy — just what you need to work outside the office for the day.

Fear not, my fellow menswear lovers. We’ve got you covered right down to the socks today. When your outfit is composed of casual basics, from suede chukkas on up to a slim striped tee, socks might be seen as an afterthought. Not so fast, my friend.  Made in a simple grey-and-red color combo from lightweight fabric, these Arvin Goods Casual Socks won’t slip down your legs throughout the day — and they’ll provide a bit of color in terms of your overall outfit. Nothing too flashy, though. Sounds like a winner on all fronts.

Greats

The Watch: Timex Weekender Chrono in Brown Leather — $82

Timex Weekender

Nothing overly fancy about a well-made, tough Timex watch. Just the right pick for this outfit.

As with the rest of this ensemble, the “less is more” approach works out quite nicely. So, we’re ditching a flashy watch for something casual, low-key and distinctly stylish. And it frequently seems to be the case that the Timex Weekender is the right watch to pick for those types of circumstances. Featuring handy chronograph functionality and a rich brown leather strap, the Timex Weekender Chrono should be your go-to watch for when you want to feel casual, yet look sharp.

The Belt: Line of Trade Veg-Tanned Leather Belt — $55 ($40 When Signing up for Bespoke Post)

Line of Trade

A rugged, well-crafted belt to complement those light grey chinos.

Leave no stone unturned when it comes time to put together a stylish outfit to wear when working remotely. This Line of Trade belt is handsome, rugged and very well-made. It’ll age beautifully the more you wear it, and it’ll stylishly complement that classic Timex watch — whether you’re at your favorite coffee shop or the nearest Starbucks (happens to the best of us).

Frank And Oak

The Essentials: Filson Pullman Bag — $420.98 AND Tactile Turn Brass Slider Pen — $59

Filson

Two picks that could feasibly go everywhere with you. Definitely add them to your daily haul.

We were just talking about leaving no stone unturned when gearing up to work remotely, and you certainly need the right goods to get the job done. The recognizable, heritage-quality Filson Pullman Bag is a durable, tough and stylish pick to haul around your everyday carry (plus, it fits with the rugged-casual nature of this outfit). And a good pen — with great writing quality — is an underrated desk essential. Make sure the Tactile Turn Brass Slider is in your bag.

The Laptop Carrier: This Is Ground Mod 15-Inch Laptop Carrier — $419.98

 

Designed and sized to carry everything you could possibly need for a day of work.

There’s nothing you want less when working remotely than to realize you forgot something essential. That’s where the ridiculously handy and well-made This Is Ground Mod Laptop Carrier comes into play. It’s priced on the high side (to say the least), but it’s worth it. Sized to help you haul just about everything you might need to work remotely, it comes in a handsome shade of French Grey, the Mod Laptop Carrier features plenty of space for your phone, your laptop and a plethora of pens and office supplies. It’s practically a must-buy.

The Wallet: Jack Mason Leather Front Pocket Wallet — $95 ($70 When Signing up for Bespoke Post)

Jack Mason

The slim wallet that you’ve been looking for — ideal for slipping into your bag as you head out to get some work done.

Particularly when working away from the office, the daily essentials take on that much  more significance. Which is to say: You don’t want to be caught without your wallet. The handsome, meticulously crafted Jack Mason Leather Front Pocket Wallet solves that problem easily, what with its rich leather and easy accessibility from the front (or back) pocket of your Outerknown chinos.

The Headphones: Marshall Major II On-Ear Headphones — $100

Nothing beats great tunes and a little peace, quiet and … freelance work?

To be fair, not everyone likes to listen to music when working. Ladies and gentlemen … I am not one of those people. Let’s upgrade your listening experience in terms of both style and quality, though — shall we? Marshall on-ear headphones are high-quality and distinctive — and what’s more, they’ll provide a neat complement to your home listening experience as well as when you work remotely. They’re well-priced, too. That’s a heck of a lot of positives to consider, no?

There are certainly challenges inherent when it comes to dressing to work remotely. You need to consider comfort and style in equal measure — two areas that can sometimes be difficult to match up. I think you’ll find a classic Oxford shirt, like the Flint and Tinder piece featured here, helps out. As far as your basics go, the Outerknown Ditch Crop Pants  provide easy wearability when matched up with classic suede chukka boots. And essential accessories — from a rugged leather watch to a stylish Filson bag — are going to make your remote work that much more enjoyable (and timely).  Don’t forget to keep your laptop safe with the investment-worthy This Is Ground Mod Laptop Carrier. As far as musical accompaniment to your day, I’d also urge you to snap up the Marshall Major II On-Ear Headphones.  Again, there’s certainly a lot of gear — and quite a few variables — to keep in mind when working remotely, especially if you want to look (and feel!) your best. With that being said — what do you think of this list? Let me know in the comments below!

Thanks so much for reading,

-Beau

The Friday Read: Menswear Trade Shows, Stylish Men’s Sunglasses and Allen Edmonds

It’s with a much-needed weekend ahead of me that I’m writing today’s Style Guide missive in our ongoing Friday Read series — perhaps you feel the same way? We’re closing out an incredibly busy week on the #menswear front in NYC, including two whirlwind days for yours truly at style trade shows like Liberty Fashion & Lifestyle Fairs and Capsule Show. This week’s schedule also included a stop to view the contemporary and slightly edgier mix of brands found at MAN-WOMAN show (think tried-and-true favorites like Apolis and upstart brands like Alps & Meters — as seen in this Midwest fall style post).

At any rate, it was great to catch up with brands familiar and unfamiliar, many of whom you see regularly on this blog — from the standout sneaker makers at SeaVees to perennial Style Guide favorite Frank and Oak. I got around in style with my Timex x Todd Snyder Military Watch and made sure to rock some stylish men’s sunglasses, too. And as it were, that busy week of trade show action capped off an even busier weekend, if you can believe it. Incredibly and unexpectedly, I had the chance to see my favorite band, indie rockers The National, play not one, but two breathtaking shows in the small upstate town of Hudson last weekend. They debuted tracks off their upcoming new album, “Sleep Well Beast,” and I can assuredly say after hearing it twice that it’s on track to be one of the year’s best — no joke. I won’t give away too much, but you can read an excellent write-up at Vinyl Me, Please of the two emotional, powerful shows at converted factory Basilica Hudson. In short, I was so very glad I went — no regrets at all! With that being said, I’m very much looking forward to some much-needed downtime this weekend — and on that note, I’m going to leave you with today’s #menswear news. Happy reading, enjoy the weekend and keep up with my Brooklyn explorations over on Instagram.

  • We’ll start with the menswear world here — and specifically, the world of stylish men’s dress shoes. Among American purveyors of your favorite dress shoes, Allen Edmonds has got to rank high on the list — right? This week, CEO Paul Grangaard announced he’ll be assuming an advisory role as longtime industry vet Malcolm Robinson joins the brand’s parent company as president of its men’s and international divisions. I, for one, am excited to see where the brand continues to go — after checking out the Allen Edmonds Fall 2017 line last month, I can tell you that the brand has some great product — including plenty of stylish men’s boots — on the way this next season.
  • Upgrading your everyday carry is something we talk about frequently here on The Style Guide — and it’s with that in mind that I’m recommending you pick up the Grovemade Walnut and Leather iPhone Case via my latest GearMoose feature. Ehh?
  • Last but surely not least, it’s imperative given my *ahem* “job” as editor of The Style Guide that I direct you to the latest blog series here, called The List, chronicling the best new men’s gear to buy this week, this month … heck, this year? Happy shopping!

OK, loyal readers — we’re closing up shop early today! Have a great weekend, join us for tomorrow’s Style Pick of the Week from site  favorites Mott and Bow, and we’ll catch you on Monday.

Thanks for reading!

-Beau

Style Pick of the Week: Blue Claw Co. Waxed Weekender

Blue Claw Co.

An all-around standout bag, from the waxed canvas exterior to the design exclusive to Bespoke Post.

Before you hit the road on your next trip, grab the Blue Claw Co. Waxed Weekender — you’re gonna need it, and I’ll tell you exactly why today on The Style Guide. For starters, you can make the argument that every guy needs a stylish weekender bag in his rotation. It’s an accessory that’s more than just a place to stash your stuff as you dress for summer travel. Think of it like an extension of your outfit — as I always say, the small details count, and your weekender bag is definitely among those details. The best men’s weekender bags get a few things right. Oftentimes, those things revolve around sturdy construction, expert detailing, handsome looks (all the better to pair with everything from a tee and jeans to a polo and blazer) and the ability to haul all of your favorite gear.Today, we’re all in luck — the Blue Claw Co. Waxed Weekender checks all of those boxes. It’s a worthy buy before your next trip — and thanks to Bespoke Post, it’s affordable as heck, and entirely unique Why should you snag the Waxed Weekender over other options, though? Keep on reading, fella.

Nautica

Notably, the Blue Claw Co. Waxed Weekender is exclusive to Bespoke Post — you really won’t find it anywhere else. It’s got the sort of rugged specifications and strong construction you’d expect from an American-made weekender bag. As it were, Blue Claw Co. designs all of its gear in Minneapolils and produces it with attention to detail — if this bag can stand up to Minnesota winters, it can certainly stand up to summer travel. It’s similar in size to the Owen and Fred Voyager Waxed Weekender, so it should be a trusty trip standby — that goes for whether you pack it with American-made denim aplenty or your favorite suede chukka boots and one of the best men’s dopp kits.

Blue Claw Co. Waxed Weekender

Handsome bridle leather accents and durable hardware give this bag a solid look and feel.

And as we’ve said before, the small touches set the Blue Claw Co. Waxed Weekender apart. As you can see above, touches like a solid brass zipper and complementary brass hardware give it all the durability you need when hitting the road weekend after weekend.  It can readily fit in an airplane overhead bin, and with that durable waxed canvas exterior, you can chuck the Waxed Weekender in the back of your car for a summer upstate trip or a weekend at the beach. That brings us to perhaps the most important point. The Waxed Weekender is a bit of an investment at $295 in full. However, get this: When you sign up for Bespoke Post, you can snag the tough, durable and stylish  Blue Claw Co. Waxed Weekender  for $215 — not a bad deal, ehh? And keep in mind that signing up for Bespoke Post also gives you access to the brand’s monthly subscription box for just $45. But that’s another post entirely. At any rate, the  Blue Claw Co. Waxed Weekender is among the best men’s weekender bags to buy now — that much is true. Will you be hitting the road with the  Waxed Weekender  in tow? Let me know in the comments, and catch up with us over at The Style Guide Facebook page!

Thanks so much for reading,

-Beau

Online Shopping Picks: The Most Stylish Gear to Upgrade Your Everyday Carry

We always say here at The Style Guide that the little details count. And that’s no more true than when it comes to your everyday carry. We’re talking about all the little things you can’t leave the house without — from a slim wallet to a leather lanyard to versatile sunglasses and a small-yet-effective daypack. And in the summer season, that list likely grows a little bit longer. Between fighting the summer sun with a vintage ballcap and toting along a trusty, durable bottle opener to a tailgate or backyard BBQ, it pays to be prepared for every situation. And you’d be surprised at just how affordable it can be to upgrade your everyday carry — whether it’s easygoing essentials from Bespoke Post or a durable daypack, plenty of brands stock handy gear for travel and daily use at low prices. Hopefully, today’s rundown hits the sweet spot for you. We’re covering those unexpected — and unexpectedly useful — items that everyone seems to need. The next time you head to a backyard barbecue, hit the beach or even stroll to your post-work happy hour, you’ll be more than prepared with reliable ways to upgrade your everyday carry.

Timex

The Bag: Topo Designs Daypack, $168

With enough room for a 15-inch laptop, the Daypack is your essential summer bag.

If we’re talking your everyday carry, might as well start with a reliable bag — right? Whether you’re hitting the road for a hike or simply gearing up for a stroll to the farmer’s market, take the effective Topo Designs Daypack with you. Featuring a neat blue exterior accented with rich leather and touches of red, the  Topo Designs Daypack is a smart-looking, high-performing pack made with enough room for a 15-inch laptop. That makes it a winner in my book.

The Ballcap: Huckberry Explorer’s Cap, $39.98

Throw this Huckberry cap in your bag and throw it on whenever you might need extra sun protection.

A Style Guide favorite no matter the season, it’s always helpful to have an easy-to-wear, stylish and vintage-inspired ballcap in your bag for situations that pop up unexpectedly. Yes, a ballcap can — and should — serve a functional purpose. From shielding your eyes in outfield seats that got caught in an unexpected glare to keeping your face free from sunburn during an hours-long cookout, the Explorer’s Cap — available in a plethora of colors — is an everyday carry essential.
Greats

The Watch: Timex Weekender Chronograph, $77 OR Deep Blue NATO Diver 300 Automatic, $220

Two options that were made for rugged adventure — and then some.

Wherever your casual summer adventures take you, a durable, stylish watch is an absolute must. If you’re bringing along something like the Topo Designs Daypack, then let’s assume you’re going somewhere off the beaten path. In that case, the crisp, classic and well-designed Timex Weekender Chronograph can hang every step of the way — doubly so thanks to the summer-friendly NATO strap.  And if your adventures call for soaking up some rays and spending some time in the water, the handsome Deep Blue NATO Diver 300 Automatic is as up for anything as you are.

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

The Bottle Opener: Areaware Bottle Axe, $17.50

An effective — and effectively cool — way to open your favorite beer.

First seen in our new Style Guide series The List,  the Areaware Bottle Axe is quite the upgrade from your standard combo bottle opener. It’s sleek, well-designed and well-made, for one. It’s also a neat conversation piece of sorts — it’s inspired by Norse mythology and medieval history. A regular, cheap bottle opener doesn’t have that going for it. Grab the Bottle Axe, toss it in your beach bag and get ready for an afternoon enjoying laidback brews.

Florsheim

The Everyday Carry Essential: Swiss Advance Crono Camp Multi-Tool, $35

More tools than you can possibly believe — at an accessible price, too.

Perhaps the true definition of an everyday carry piece, the Swiss Advance Crono Camp Multi-Tool really can do it all. The brand says it’s designed to be ultra-slim and lightweight, and it seriously packs a ton of punch. It features, in short order, everything from a bottle opener to a wire stripper to a fork AND knife. And it does all of that for just $35. For your next beach bonfire or hiking trip, you need the Crono Camp Multi-Tool.

The Sunglasses: Knockaround Mile High Polarized Sunglasses, $24.98
Knockaround

A sharp, simple and very affordable silhouette for summer style.

Great sunglasses at an accessible price with quality construction? Nearly impossible to come by. Yet, Knockaround seems to consistently solve that conundrum, making the Mile High Polarized Sunglasses quite the reliable option to add to your everyday carry. For a price that low, you needn’t worry about beating them up too much — take them to the office and out on a long weekend of adventures thereafter (at least, that’s what I’d do if I were you).

Nautica
The Headphones: JAYS u-JAYS On-Ear Headphones, $120

A sleek take on your average headphones, with excellent sound quality.

A seriously underrated part of your everyday carry? The headphones you’re wearing to listen to your favorite podcast (I’d recommend 99% Invisible) or your favorite tunes (I favor a healthy daily dose of The National).  And for unexpectedly sleek and stylish looks — at a great price — the JAYS u-JAYS On-Ear Headphones reliably offer excellent sound quality and a cool silhouette.

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

I say this to you, Style Guide readers: Leave no stone unturned in your pursuit of the best everyday carry gear. If you’re in need of a new grab-and-go bag, the Topo Designs Daypack is the one to buy, with plenty of functionality for your summer adventures. Everything from a  vintage-inspired ballcap to a durable summer watch should also be included in your everyday carry — these are seemingly small-yet-useful touches you shouldn’t leave the house without. And whether you’re heading to the beach or to a barbecue, I think you’d be surprised how handy the  Crono Camp Multi-Tool can be. Last but certainly not least: Don’t leave your house without an affordable pair of shades — the Mile High Polarized Sunglasses just might be your new favorite pair. That’s all the tips I’ve got when it comes to how to upgrade your everyday carry this summer. Have questions? Shoot me a note on Twitter.
Thanks for reading — stay stylish!
-Beau

#OOTD: How to Wear a Blazer When It’s Hot This Summer

Let’s get down to business right off the bat — in the remaining time we’ve got this summer, you should certainly be considering how to wear a blazer this summer.  That’s especially true for when it’s hot out — like, really hot out. You’ll surely need all the help you can get. It seems simple enough at first, yet there are plenty of #menswear tips and tricks to consider when throwing on a streamlined suit jacket or a lightweight, classic blazer. For one, you’re going to want to start your search for the perfect summer jacket by going both lighter in weight and lighter in color — fabric blends that incorporate linen, like the option we’ll discuss in today’s #OOTD, are the way to go. The featured jacket in today’s ensemble does a nice job of checking both of those boxes — that featured jacket just happens to be he Taylor Stitch Telegraph Jacket, featuring a pleasantly earthy (yet summer-ready) charcoal color and a stretchy wool-linen blend. The fit is going to be modern, classic and easily wearable with other summer style essentials — a slim navy polo among them. Like other entries in our #OOTD series, it’s all geared toward casual, versatile and seasonally friendly style. But I won’t give the rest away — that’s for you to find out. Got questions on all things style and men’s lifestyle? Fire off a Tweet in  my direction, and keep up with all of my summer men’s style tips on Instagram.

Take your favorite lightweight blazer and pair it with a sharp polo and classic men’s dress shoes.

The Jacket: Taylor Stitch Telegraph Jacket, $278 —  You certainly know the Taylor Stitch brand and its body of handsome, stylish work — this stylish suit jacket functions just as well as a blazer, with more style and comfort to boot.

The Polo: Flint and Tinder Supima AirKnit Polo, $68 — Certainly, you can swap in your favorite navy polo here without buying this sharp, well-made option from Flint and Tinder… but why would ya want to do that?

The Pocket Square: J. Crew Cotton Pocket Square, $45 — A somewhat overlooked accessory that’s still crucial here — the cotton pocket square livens this outfit up and provides visual contrast to the casual polo.

The Trousers: Banana Republic Slim Non-Iron Cotton Stretch Pant, $89.50 — For solid, well-fitting and accessibly priced work staples, Banana Republic knows how to set you up. The light blue color contrasts nicely against the navy polo and light charcoal jacket, too.

Florsheim

The Belt: Banana Republic Stretch Leather Belt, $34.50 (On-Sale) — Might as well get your belt from the same spot you get your pants, right? This textured stretch belt is versatile and not overly dressy.

The Shoes: Allen Edmonds Strandmok Cap Toe Oxford, $295 — A positively gorgeous pair of exquisite footwear, crafted to last from the excellent footwear purveyors at Allen Edmonds.

The Socks: Arvin Goods No-Show Socks (Three-pack), $30 — You guessed it, folks. We’re actually going with no-show socks here — cuff those trousers a bit for European-inspired style points.

Nautica

The Watch: About Vintage 1844 Chronograph,$309.98 — Similar in nature to the refined, sleek and yet accessible Spirit of St. Louis Chronograph from Armogan, this About Vintage timepiece channels wearable, eye-catching style.

The Sunglasses: Knockaround Fast Lanes Sunglasses, $19.98— If you don’t yet have a pair of  stylish summer sunglasses in your rotation, then I’d say … you need the simple, durable and ridiculously well-priced Knockaround Fast Lanes Sunglasses. How much better can it get?

What’s the biggest key to keep in mind when styling a blazer this summer? In addition to finding that perfect fit for your stylish summer jacket, lightweight fabric is critical. The Taylor Stitch Telegraph Jacket  knocks it out of the park in that regard, and it’s able to be layered up casually with the crisp-yet-laidback Flint and Tinder Supima AirKnit Polo. A patterned pocket square rounds things out on your top half, and light blue trousers and a rich brown leather belt should provide solid visual interest to complete the main components of this summer-ready #OOTD. And when it comes to footwear? There’s hardly a more reliably stylish and well-crafted American footwear brand than Allen Edmonds — just don’t forget your stylish no-show socks. And before you leave the house, I’d strongly advise you to strap on a stylish leather watch from About Vintage — it’s vintage inspiration without the vintage price tag. The same can be said for those handy, durable Knockaround Fast Lanes Sunglasses. That’ll wrap things up for today — as always, the difference is in the details. How will you be styling your polo and blazer for the rest of the summer?

Stay stylish and stay cool,

-Beau

The Friday Read: How to Upgrade Your Everyday Carry, Summer Style Tips and The National

OK, Style Guide readers — how was everyone’s Fourth of July? Productive? Relaxing? Ideally filled with quite a few of the best summer beers? I sure hope that was the case. I spent mine relaxing in Brooklyn, hitting up some of favorite coffee and craft beer spots, and putting in some light work on The Style Guide (hey, gotta hustle). At any rate, it’s been a quick, shortened week, what with the holiday falling on a Tuesday. But lest you think nothing’s gone down lately in the #menswear world … think again.

We’ve got plenty of ground to cover before we roll into the weekend. If summer shopping remains a priority for you, I’d urge you (strongly!) to look for affordable men’s style essentials and pick up one of the best men’s polos to buy now.  I’d also urge you to pair said polo with some stylish shorts for the season — two foolproof moves that work for your next summer BBQ, your next beach trip or a casual stroll in your favorite park.  Before you spend all your budget in one place, though … take a look at a few prime men’s style news items below, will ya? And with that, it’s nearly time to kick back for Friday happy hour — isn’t it? Follow along with me through the weekend on Instagram, and thanks for reading!

  • Among other #menswear writing pursuits, I’ve been doing some work for The Menlo House, the blogging arm of personalized style service and E-commerce shop FiveFour Club. As with so many men’s fashion matters, the devil is in the details — so my latest post covers how to upgrade your everyday carry in style. It’s as easy as that!

Timex

  • Looking for a minimal, sharply designed pair of shorts that function in more situations than you can count? That’s what SPUDS is aiming to produce — the brand says that its shorts (launching on Kickstarter on July 11th!) are meant to “redefine men’s activewear,” what with a blend of performance fabric and easily wearable colors. Learn more here, and look out for that launch next week.
  • While we’re on the subject of upgrading your everyday carry, I reckon that myself and the GearMoose team might have found the stylish wallet to buy now. It’s the Hitch & Timber Flat Jacket Wallet, and it’s a handcrafted, rugged beauty of a piece. Go get that wallet now!
  • In other everyday style tips, Esquire.com has a simple — yet quite important — missive for you to follow. Namely, the site’s fine style team wants you to, quite simply, stop buttoning the bottom button of your suit jacket. That’s it! That’s all!

  • Let’s close this week out with some stellar new music — agreed? If you haven’t caught on by now, Brooklyn-bred indie rock heroes The National are masters at crafting subtle, simple and yet detailed and complex songs. The band’s latest release, “Guilty Party,” is a multi-layered, multi-faceted song about love and loss — in short, it’s beautiful and it’s been on repeat here at The Style Guide HQ. Listen away!

Those quick-hit menswear and music items will wrap up today’s Friday Read. I think we’re on track for a great weekend, yes? Let me know on Twitter if you’ll be doing any shopping for summer style essentials, or if you’ve got any style-minded questions. With all that being said, I’ve got a happy hour to look forward to later — cheers and enjoy the weekend!

-Beau

Style Pick of the Week: Bespoke Post Weekender Box

Bespoke Post Weekender Box

Available in a plethora of colors, the Weekender Box is likely the best value on the market when it comes to a durable, handsome and stylish weekender bag.

If you’re still searching for a stylish weekender bag, you’ve come to the right place today. Better yet, if you’re looking for a deal that’s affordable as heck, high-quality and very stylish, the Bespoke Post Weekender Box is the absolute next thing you should purchase … right this instant. What separates the Weekender Box from any regular old weekender bag? In short, it’s the combination of accessibility, affordability and style that you’re not going to find anywhere else on the market. As in — the  Weekender Box  costs at most, $55. Yes, that’s right. How so? If you’re not familiar with Bespoke Post, the company offers a monthly subscription plan that’ll ship boxes of stylish, unique and extremely useful goods to your door, time and again.  What exactly is in these boxes? It could be handsome and functional audio gear, like the Bespoke Post Vibes Box, or it could be something as summer-ready as the Bespoke Post Chill Box (a durable cooler and portable beer glasses). Ultimately, the choice is yours. I’ll tell you this, though: If you sign up for Bespoke Post, you can get boxes for just $45. In my years of menswear writing (and avidly shopping Bespoke Post), there’s not a better deal out there. And that’s particularly the case when it comes to the  Weekender Box. Seriously … a durable weekender bag for just $45? It’s true, and it’s got the quality specs to give you some great bang for your buck.

Greats
Available in a plethora of colors — I personally like the handsome Olive option the most — the Weekender Box is the kind of bag it can take a while to find. After all, the Bespoke Post Weekender Box is functional, affordable and great-looking. It’s a custom design made by Bespoke Post, and it features a sturdy canvas exterior that’ll age  nicely the more you use it. If I were you, I’d certainly use this thing as much as I could — from a summer road trip to a stylish beach getaway, it’s certainly got plenty of room to handle everything on your menswear shopping list.

The cotton webbing shoulder strap on this particular weekend bag should prove durable and sturdy, giving you more than enough room to pack it full of everything from your favorite summer sneakers to slim chinos and perhaps … a slim chambray shirt to round things out? And that’s another bonus when it comes to the Bespoke Post Weekender Box — it’ll look as great as the gear you pack inside, what with a versatile color and simple-yet-rich leather accents. With plenty of summer travel on the horizon, I wouldn’t wait one more second to order the Weekender Box — are you with me? Let me know if you plan to buy it over on Twitter. Happy shopping and safe travels out there!

-Beau