Tag / best men’s style

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: Bastille, Greg Lauren and A Huckberry Giveaway

Editor’s note: Expect these posts once a week on Fridays — consider this a jumpstart on reading for your weekend downtime. Expect a mix of style and non-style content. For more entries, click here.

We’re through the end of another week, and we’re just a bit closer to Christmas — if you’re one who celebrates the holiday season, that is. It’s also a great time of year in the menswear world — it’s time to drop a few hints about your men’s style holiday wish list, it’s time to gear up with stylish snow gear, and it’s time to get a big jump on your holiday shopping for her. With all those wheels in motion, it made for an extra-busy week at The Style Guide. It kicked off with a really neat, special Monday night — it’s not too often you get the chance to check out a band as big as Bastille  in a venue as intimate as the renowned Bowery Ballroom, but the lauded British indie pop band returned to NYC to make up a special show originally scheduled for October. It was a fantastic night of live music — lead singer Dan Smith is smooth, poised and energetic, with a great band behind him. They played their way through one of the best pop albums of the year — that would be “Wild World” — with a few slightly older hits (“Pompeii” among them!) thrown in for good measure. Songs like “Warmth” and “The Currents” really shone through in a live setting, too. It was a treat to see them in such an intimate venue — and it was even better to catch them the very next night at Manhattan’s cavernous Pier 36 for the very cool Pandora Holiday Live event, which also featured scores of fans on-hand for Bishop Briggs and the energetic (if divisive) British mega-band The 1975 , a group who seem to be everywhere nowadays. If you can, I’d definitely recommend catching Bastille at one of a number of festivals this summer — they’ll surely be there! While summer festival season sounds mighty nice right about now, maybe you’ve got to dress in style for your holiday party, or get a jump on the weekend, so let’s get on with it — we’ve got you covered with this week’s #menswear news.

Nautica

A standout giveaway from everyone's favorite lifestyle purveyor.

A standout giveaway from everyone’s favorite lifestyle site.

  • Alright, so this is a pretty big deal. Purveyors of a stunning mix of men’s lifestyle and style goods, Huckberry is doing it big this holiday season with its Golden Holiday 2016 contest. It’s four straight weeks of neat holiday prizes you can only find at Huckberry, running from now until December 18th. What was last week’s prize? A sweet Secret Agent kit featuring some seriously stylish tailored gear from Trumaker. And this week’s prize? Potentially even cooler. It’s a bespoke sailing adventure — yes, you read that right — on a private yacht around one of a handful of beautiful locations: Maine, the British Virgin Islands, Croatia or Greece, all thanks to Huckberry partners Sailing Collective. Now, how to enter? Those who place an order via Huckberry this week are in the running — every purchase gets you Coal Hard Cash, which you can redeem 24 hours after said purchase to find out if you’ve won Huckberry credit (up to $500!) or, better yet, the incredible top prize (no exaggeration here). But wait! There are two more weeks of prizes upcoming! Yes sir, that’s right. Does it get any better? Learn more, buy away & enter at Huckberry.
  • Want to mix a few more pieces with some high-fashion edge into your wardrobe? That task just got a little easier thanks to a new collaboration between Greg Lauren and Banana Republic.  Although at first it might seem unlikely given Lauren’s penchant for distressed, luxurious takes on style essentials, it’s a partnership through the Council of Fashion Designers that resulted in a 16-piece capsule collection. Of those 16 pieces, there are quite a few that are, well, pricey (a $3,000 cashmere overcoat, anyone?), but it’s a neat blend of the traditional and the unexpected that you should check out via the above feature at GQ.com.
  • In sneaker-related news, your favorite Brooklyn sneaker brand — Style Guide favorite GREATS  — is releasing an outstanding, sleek and stylish take on its lauded Royale silhouette. The good news for those of us who like to break out sneakers until the first snowfall hits? The new version of the Royale comes in a seasonally appropriate, deep navy blue “Jeans Suede” color that would team quite effectively with your favorite crewneck sweater and a trusty chambray shirt on casual winter weekends (sans snow, of course).

Want to read one more feature before the weekend?

Now, we’ve reached the end of the Friday Read this week — enter that Huckberry giveaway ASAP and add a few pieces to your Men’s Holiday Style Wish List now!

Stay stylish!

-Beau

by Beau H.

#OOTD: How to Dress for the First Snowfall

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.

Can you feel it? A real chill in the air? Temperatures (nearly) below or *gasp* at freezing? And maybe … the flutter of a snowflake or two? Yes, the more you look around these parts — that is, Brooklyn — on The Style Guide, the more you realize winter’s just about here. Of course, if you find yourself in a warm climate year-round, stop reading — we have plenty of beach-ready menswear for you. But if you need to bundle up for that first snowfall, the #menswear you need is just a few clicks away — and it looks sharp for situations casual and slightly less so.  Essential layering pieces like a shawl-collar cardigan and a slim henley can work all through fall, but when it comes time to combat the snow? You can certainly still reach for ’em with confidence. We’ll get to the full #OOTD below — and for style inspiration on the daily, check out the behind-the-scenes process on Instagram.

Layering up for snowy weather with a comfortable henley, a rugged cardigan and waterproof boots.

Layering up for snowy weather with a comfortable henley, a rugged cardigan and waterproof boots.

The Cardigan: JACHS NY Donegal Shawl Neck Cardigan, $129 — With its combination of hefty fabric yet a pleasingly modern fit, this cardigan is refined enough for the office but casual enough for the weekend.

The Topcoat: Old Navy Wool-Blend Topcoat in Crème Caramel, $124.94 — Add another brand to your list when it comes to stylish topcoat shopping this season. Old Navy knocks it out of the park with this functional, sharp number. Is it a heavy, technical parka? Not quite. But will it layer up nicely and look refined along the way? Yes, sir.

The Denim: Flint & Tinder All-American Jeans (Slim Tapered or Straight Tapered), $98 — If you caught this site’s post on the best men’s selvedge denim, then you know how essential Flint & Tinder jeans can be. Snag either the Straight or Slim Tapered cut and wear them all season. As to a belt? Choose a braided leather belt  for seasonally appropriate texture if you’ve got one.

The Henley: OLIVERS Apparel Convoy Henley, $98 — If you’re heading to the office & a henley won’t cut it, sub in a stylish chambray shirt & a wool tie. But in casual situations? Layer away with this soft, comfortable and slim henley.

The Boots: Cole Haan Lockridge Moc Toe Waterproof Boots, $350 — Perhaps more well-known for lightweight shoes like its ZeroGrand series, the Lockridge is a flexible, durable and completely waterproof boot ready for snow and slush, plus a business casual day at the office.

The Socks: Anonymous-ism Fair Isle Grade Crew Socks, $25 (Available via East Dane) — With various shades of blue in this outfit — plus that rich camel topcoat — a shot of red via textured socks makes a nice addition.

The Watch: Lum-Tec M60 GMT Watch, $499.98 — If you stop by here often, you know that Lum-Tec makes a bevy of watches that are Style Guide favorites. Although brown boots are in play, the M60 GMT Watch features a black dial and a black leather strap– but it comes with a stainless steel bracelet or a black rubber strap (especially handy in the snow).

The Hat: Herschel Supply Co. Abbott Knit Beanie, $20 (Available via East Dane) — Other than stylish leather gloves, what’s the one accessory keeping you warm in the blustery snow? A functional, neutral winter cap. If you’re going to go investment-level with a durable casual watch, might as well keep your hat affordable and versatile.

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This snowfall-ready outfit favors fashion just a bit more than function — we’re not throwing on a blizzard-level parka and snow pants just yet. But in the event it does start to snow a little harder, versatile accessories like a warm shawl collar cardigan and a sharp topcoat should serve you well. And accessories like tough winter boots  and a rugged leather watch can certainly take a few punches. Regardless of whether you’re stepping through  a few flurries or the bitter chill, don’t leave home without a warm scarf and gloves (thank your mom for that reminder, too!). If you’ve got other questions on what to wear for the first snowfall, or just want to chat, shoot me an email or a Tweet.

Stay stylish!

-Beau

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: Casio G-SHOCK, Kenneth Cole AWEARNESS and Menswear Giveaways

Editor’s note: Expect these posts once a week on Fridays — consider this a jumpstart on reading for your weekend downtime. Expect a mix of style and non-style content. For more entries, click here.

If you’re joining us here on The Style Guide today, that means you made it through Black Friday shopping — and Cyber Monday shopping — just fine. So, congrats!  It was an especially busy week in New York City coming off a Thanksgiving trip to Florida  and catching up on work. I also got out of the office on Thursday night for an especially neat opportunity — I had the pleasure of attending a great Men’s Health Style & Casio G-SHOCK collection preview at the very cool, very refined Tourneau TimeMachine in Manhattan. If you’re looking to buy a tough, durable watch that can take a serious beating, I’d strongly urge you to check out the Casio G-SHOCK Master of G collection, available exclusively at Tourneau. Oh, and on another style-related note — if you find yourself in need of a new suit, I think I’ve got what you’re looking for. I partnered with Men’s Wearhouse and the Men’s Health MVP Network to showcase the standout AWEARENESS Kenneth Cole line and a stylish slim-fit suit featuring the comfortable, flexible & breathable AWEAR-Tech technology. Coming from a guy who doesn’t often wear suits … you can’t go wrong with a suit that’s made with mobility and performance in mind. And lastly, need to know what to wear to your holiday party? Look no further than the latest Style Suggestion. While you peruse those picks, I’m very much looking forward to a day off work and some time hanging with my good friend and fellow Michigan State (and State News!) alumnus Jesse O’Brien — a talented writer from the Mitten — this weekend in NYC. Keep it stylish, keep it 100 and check out the week in #menswear below.

A trifecta of stylish menswear could be yours via the SeaVees x Grayers x STAG Provisions giveaway!

A trifecta of stylish menswear could be yours via the SeaVees x Grayers x STAG Provisions giveaway!

  • In the mood for a bunch of new men’s style gear? We’ll get right to it. The terrific trio of SeaVees, Grayers and STAG Provisions have teamed up to set you up with all the classic menswear you could ever want as part of the “Between Friends” giveaway. From this Friday to next Thursday, December 8th, you and a friend can enter to win a huge holiday shopping spree via the three brands. We’re talking a $200 SeaVees gift card, a $250 STAG Provisions gift card and $400-$500 worth of Grayers gear via a personalized styling courtesy of Grayers co-founder Peter Georiou and SeaVees CEO and Chief Designer Steven Tiller. Not bad, right? Seriously, enter the giveaway now, and look for a winner to be picked on December 9th.
  • If you have a cycling enthusiast in your family and are searching for a gift to get them, you might have just found it. Lauded British heritage brand Brooks England, known for its premium cycling accessories, is releasing a neat book entitled “The Brooks Compendium of Cycling Culture” to celebrate its 150th anniversary. This volume gathers insights and stories from a range of writers, artists, journalists and photographers to focus on the far-reaching impacts of the brand’s bicycles using neat short stories and beautiful design. And you get all that — plus a wooden box and a print signed by British photographer Martin Parr — for under $40. Talk about a great gift for the cycling lover, yeah?
  • Let’s finish the week on a classic menswear note, shall we? To get you thinking about cold-weather layering, Esquire covers the 5 military style staples every guy should own. Got any of those in your closet

Want to read just one more style story before you start the weekend?

  • It’s always a treat to see two American-made brands team up — when those brands happen to be the stylish accessories purveyors American Trench and lauded NYC shirt maker Corridor NYC, it’s worth paying attention. The American Trench x Corridor NYC collab has given us some great dyed shirting for the colder months, and it’s my latest feature at The Manual.

That’s all we’ve got going here on this fine Friday — but tomorrow, be sure to check out another fantastic offering in our Style Pick of the Week series.

Stay stylish!

-Beau

by Beau H.

Style Suggestion: What to Wear to Your Holiday Party

Can you believe the holiday season is upon us? Here at The Style Guide, we absolutely love the holidays — and by we, I mean me. From holiday travel to composing my Holiday Style Wish List, it’s an absolute treat of a time. In addition to looking forward to time spent with loved ones, you should also keep a weather eye out for ways to improve and upgrade your style — especially at this crucial time of year. Yes, it’s a time when you’re dealing with (likely) inclement weather, a bit (or a lot) of travel, gift-giving and plenty more — not to mention a work holiday party that often pops up when you might least expect it (or least look forward to it?). It’s also a time to make sure your style doesn’t stray into overly, err, holiday-esque territory — so, a reindeer sweater is overdoing it just a bit. To get you ready for that inevitable invite in fine fashion, we’ve pulled together one heck of a style suggestion — it’s a bit dressier than your everyday rugged favorites on this here blog, but you’ll be all the better for it. And as you’ll see below, it takes tried-and-true layers — like the classic V-neck sweater — and upgrades them with winter-ready shirting and accessories. Can’t wait to see it? Good. Me neither! Follow along on Instagram and Twitter for more daily style inspiration, and chime in on this suggestion via The Style Guide’s Facebook page.

The Topcoat: JackThreads Tieman Topcoat — $149

Smart, stylish, affordable and easy to wear with a suited holiday look.

Smart, stylish, affordable and easy to wear with a suited holiday look.

Is it any surprise that the great team at JackThreads has absolutely knocked it out of the park with the Tieman Topcoat? It shouldn’t be — the brand’s menswear-focused revamp has been a welcome addition to the digital style scene across the past year, and this handsome, eye-catching double-breasted topcoat is Exhibit A in that regard. It’s no Canada Goose parka in terms of battling extreme conditions, but thrown on over a suit on a crisp winter’s night? You just might have the nicest jacket at the party, fella.

The Suit: Taylor Stitch Telegraph Jacket and Trousers in Grey Wool — $456

https://www.idevaffiliate.com/31555/idevaffiliate.php?id=607&url=11319

A refined suit made with premium materials for under $500? You betcha.

Would you believe that Taylor Stitch makes a heck of a beautiful fall and winter suit in addition to their classic chambray shirts and rugged slim chinos? It’s true, and that’s what makes the Telegraph Suit such a worthy pick-up. The brand took plenty of customer feedback and incorporated it into a suit that manages to merge the modern — a slim fit — with the classic — patch pockets and textured fabric. It’s a classic suit that’ll serve you nicely throughout the rest of the winter season — and it’s the right choice here because of its terrific fit and styling potential. It’s neither too stuffy nor too sloppy, and the Telegraph Suit is certainly a steal for under $500 via Huckberry.

The Sweater: J. Crew Italian Cashmere V-neck Sweater — $225

A slightly unexpected color that plays nicely off the blue shirt and grey wool suit.

A slightly unexpected color that plays nicely off the blue shirt and grey wool suit.

There’s no question that J. Crew knows how to do luxurious basics well. Is $225 a lot for a sweater, as we always ask ourselves? Yes, it certainly is — but finding an Italian cashmere sweater for less than that is a bit of a difficult endeavor. The rich Heather Laurel color seen here is a great complement to the grey wool suit and darker blue shirt. Plus, it adds a bit of contrast to the tan plaid tie. Green and blue is a bit of a unique color combination, but it works here — and the sweater will keep you nice and warm underneath your Taylor Stitch suit and topcoat.

The Shirt: Cordings for J. Crew Shirt in Warm Twilight — $128

A dress shirt with some texture and a pleasing winter-ready color.

A dress shirt with some texture and a pleasing winter-ready color.

What better way to complement a classic winter-weight suit than with a sharp blue dress shirt in a textured fabric? J. Crew always seems to do an impressive job with its third-party collaborations, and the Cordings for J. Crew partnership is the latest addition to that roster. Cordings brings its own classic British sensibility to sharp tailoring, and that makes this shirt both traditional and modern. It’s the perfect complement to a deep green sweater — the combination is unique, but works with the darker tones of winter.
Huckberry
The Tie and Pocket Square: Ties.com Tan Plaid Brussels Tie ($25) and Florence Pocket Square ($10)

A plaid tie and a floral pocket square? Give it a try.

A plaid tie and a floral pocket square? Give it a try.

In keeping with the crisp cold-weather vibes of the season, we’re reaching for two pieces here that nod to the holidays without going full-on Santa Claus. The Tan Plaid Brussels Tie is affordably priced in a  nice plaid wool that contrasts with the grey wool suit and blue shirt — it’s a bit of an unexpected color pairing. And the patterned blue pocket square plays nicely off the lighter blue shirt. You’re looking at two patterns that at first might not work together, yet up against a grey wool suit, the combination is a fresh, affordable one. Right?

The Boots: CAT Footwear Sutter Boots in Rust — $210

Just as ready to wear with a winter suit as they are with tough dark denim and a henley.

Just as ready to wear with a winter suit as they are with tough dark denim and a Henley.

Remember seeing the rugged, refined and tough-as-nails CAT Footwear Sutter Boot in this site’s post on the best men’s boots for fall? Of course you do. Although at first this 6-eye, burnished boot might seem too rugged to wear a suit, fear not. The rougher texture of the suit, shirt and tie lend themselves well to a durable, handsome boot. Plus, the higher cut of these boots gives you added traction and grip should the weather turn inclement. If you find yourself in a warmer climate? Ditch the boots for a pair of crisp leather wingtips and perhaps swap out the wool suit for some slim stone chinos and a lightweight navy blazer. Ya dig?

The Socks: American Trench Pima Cotton Houndstooth Socks — $23.98

american-trench-pima-cotton-houndstooth-socks

 American Trench consistently delivers on premium, American-made socks — that goes for  both the brand’s casual varieties and dressier iterations. Take these comfortable Pima Cotton Houndstooth Socks  — the navy pattern plays nicely off the blue shirt and grey wool suit, not to mention the patterned pocket square. They’re an investment for a pair of socks, but they’re one that’s worth it — you can wear sharp, subtly stylish socks like this with all sorts of winter work week outfits.
A classic, affordable dress belt and a go-anywhere watch.

A classic, affordable dress belt and a go-anywhere watch.

Make no mistake, your Style Guide author is as much of a fan of classic dress watches from the likes of Daniel Wellington as you are. But given that we’re going with a more rugged outfit — from the textured shirt and tie to the grey wool suit and boots — a sport-inspired, tough chronograph fits right in. The great thing about the Armogan Spirit of St. Louis Chronograph is the rich contrast between the black dial and brown leather strap — it’s a pairing that works surprisingly well together. Of course, you can never go wrong with an affordably priced J. Crew Factory leather belt fit for both business casual and slightly dressier looks.
So, that’s your Holiday Style Suggestion all sorted out. A slim V-neck sweater adds a bit of visual interest to a rich grey Telegraph Suit from Taylor Stitch, and both the shirt and tie bring seasonally appropriate texture. The thing to keep in mind is that even at an investment-level price, the Telegraph Suit  is more than just a one-trick pony. That is, you can break up the jacket and pair it with Mott & Bow denim and a classic white Oxford (plus, those durable Sutter Boots from CAT Footwear) during the regular work week, too. And the handsome, refined Armogan Spirit of St. Louis Chronograph is an absolute keeper in terms of both durability, style and versatile looks. Oh, and those Pima Cotton Houndstooth Socks? Once you’ve tried socks from American Trench, you might never go back. As always, you can’t go wrong with a refined, versatile JackThreads topcoat, either. Let me know in the comments how you’re dressing for your holiday party — and as always, stay stylish!

by Beau H.

#OOTD: Versatile Suiting with AWEARNESS Kenneth Cole

Editor’s note: Thank you to Men’s Wearhouse and the Men’s Health MVP Network for sponsoring today’s post. Thanks for reading!

On the go with a comfortable, slim-fitting and flexible suit jacket. Denim shirt C/O Forever21 Men. Plaid wool tie and patterned pocket square by Ties.com. Waterbury Chrono by Timex x Red Wing Heritage.

On the go with a comfortable, slim-fitting and flexible suit from the AWEARNESS Kenneth Cole line. Denim shirt C/O Forever21 Men. Plaid wool tie and patterned pocket square by Ties.com. Waterbury Chrono by Timex x Red Wing Heritage.

If you follow along with The Style Guide on Instagram or Twitter — or peruse many of this site’s rugged fall style posts, you know that it’s not too often that I suit up. But when I do throw on a shirt, tie and a slim-cut suit, there’s no question that I want that suit to fit, look and feel great. That’s what’s so refreshing about the AWEARNESS Kenneth Cole collection, and that’s why it was a treat to partner with them on this post via the Men’s Health MVP Network. Lest you think we’re throwing out all of those rugged, casual menswear tips and starting from scratch, fear not — there’s plenty more where that came from. But I know that I’ll certainly be more inclined to suit up thanks to the comfort, technology and attention to detail in the new AWEARNESS Kenneth Cole line (sold exclusively at Men’s Wearhouse).

The line features the brand’s AWEAR-TECH technology, part of a larger line featuring the brand’s patented 37.5 technology. It’s a run of tailored clothing — from dress shirts ($89) to full suits, as seen here ($649) — made to remove moisture when it’s hot, and retain warmth when it’s cold. In fact, technology in the suit is made to remove sweat before it even forms. Sound too good to be true? Well, stay with me. It’s performance sports fabric with a tailored touch, perfect for today’s fast-moving menswear world. Yes, the AWEARNESS Kenneth Cole line is definitely made with performance in mind, and that’s what makes it such a great fit for my lifestyle. Between my day job and dashing around town to events in NYC, I value comfort, performance and sharp looks. The AWEARNESS collection nails that balance nicely, as I found out while exploring some of my favorite haunts in Brooklyn, particularly the delicious Fawnker for an essential weekend Bloody Mary. The suit is lightweight, moves easily and is very comfortable — all huge bonuses.

suiting-photo-3-edited

Just the right combination for a Sunday Bloody Mary at Fawnker in Brooklyn. Denim shirt C/O Forever21 Men. Plaid wool tie and patterned pocket square by Ties.com. Colorblocked socks by Richer Poorer. Leather chukka boots by Beckett Simonon. Waterbury Chrono by Timex x Red Wing Heritage. Glasses by Frameri.

The AWEAR-Tech Suit in particular is the type of easy-to-wear, versatile suit that pairs crisply with a denim shirt and a wool tie for essential fall style — I’d recommend you add a dash of timeless appeal with classic leather chukka boots and a rugged leather watch. Of course, there’s more than style and performance woven into the collection. One percent of all everyday gross sales will go toward Hire Heroes USA and Help USA, both organizations that benefit military veterans with a variety of services and help them transition back into the workforce. It’s an admirable cause that blends great style with community engagement — and who doesn’t love that?  You can pick up items from the AWEARNESS Kenneth Cole line exclusively at Men’s Wearhouse — and I’d suggest you do so before your first holiday party or a big business trip, as there’s no other suiting that can keep you cool under pressure … and support a great cause in the process.

Shop the AWEARNESS Kenneth Cole line now. Thanks again for reading!

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Public Rec Crosstown Bomber

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

Public Rec Crosstown Bomber

Potentially a new fall style favorite? That’s your call.

Live from Brooklyn, it’s yet another edition of the Style Pick of the Week series here at The Style Guide.  So far this fall season, we’ve covered off on a lot of essential fall pieces, from a durable waxed trucker jacket to a stylish crewneck sweater. While pieces like the aforementioned are fantastic a lot of the time, some situations call for something a bit comfortable but just as functional. From fall travel to a weekend coffee run, you’re going to want ease of movement, a slim fit and the type of look that’s put-together but not overly dressy. Enter the fantastic Public Rec Crosstown Bomber. Available via the Public Rec Web site or through Huckberry , the Crosstown Bomber is the casual fall jacket you didn’t know you needed. Released earlier this fall, it joins the Public Rec arsenal of essential, well-built and comfortable basics that are sure to become everyday staples. From the brand’s tailored-yet-laidback All Day Every Day Pant to the Go-To Tee — tested out by yours truly on a summer trip to Las Vegas — there’s no question that the Crosstown Bomber fills a tough-to-find niche of well-made basics that aren’t … too basic. Especially when it comes to filling out your Fall Style Wish List, those are the type of items you should search for — and then buy.

It’s easy to get the type of easily wearable style you need, too. Crucially, the Crosstown Bomber is available in reliably versatile shades of Black and Heather Charcoal. However, your author is partial to the pleasing shade of Heather Navy. Why’s that? Well, that particular shade of blue will go with absolutely everything — including black denim and grey denim. There’s plenty of upside to the Heather Navy version of this jacket — the blend of nylon and spandex is ridiculously comfortable and breathable, for one. And the sleek yet subtle silhouette of the Crosstown Bomber is another positive. With a zipper chest pocket featuring room for your phone and headphones to slide right in, it’s the ideal mix of stylish and functional. It could even become a new seasonal staple — layer it over a rugged henley with your favorite pair of faded denim on the weekends, and throw in some retro-inspired high-top sneakers while you’re at it.  Then, take that same jacket on through to the work week with a slim white Oxford, polished-yet-casual garment-dyed chinos and worn-in leather chukka boots. Oh, and off-the-wall style suggestion? Layer the Crosstown Bomber over a refined turtleneck for a bit of sleek, alpine-inspired style.  With a jacket this comfortable and easy to wear, it’s a safe bet refined turtleneck that you’ll want to wear it as much as you can, in any and every way possible.

Get the Crosstown Bomber now via Huckberry or Public Rec Apparel.

by Beau H.

Online Shopping Picks: East Dane ‘GO BIG’ Fall Sale

Editor’s note: Continue reading The Style Guide for more menswear style suggestions.

Here at The Style Guide,  we’re all about helping people out — right? From the weekly #OOTD feature to the Friday recap of the best of the week in #menswear , it all comes down to keeping y’all informed — and keeping myself informed, come to think of it. So, that’s why we’re here today. It’s Thanksgiving Eve — AKA the biggest bar night of the year — but that means we’re in the thick of a busy shopping season. If you haven’t gotten a jump on your Christmas shopping as of yet, you best start — and it’s a great thing we’re giving you the tools to do that via the great folks at East Dane . We shared with you details about the epic East Dane Event of the Season last month, and the excellent menswear and men’s lifestyle retailer is back at it again. So, without further ado: Now through 11:59 p.m. PST on Monday, November 28th, you can get some stellar online shopping deals! Using the code GOBIG16, you can get 15 percent off orders of $200 or more, 20 percent off orders of $500 or more, & 25 percent off orders of $800 or more. So, that’s a heck of a great deal, and it goes for a wide selection of both full-price and sale items. Now, because those are big barriers to reach, we’re focusing on hard-hitting, higher-priced goods in key categories — we’re talking footwear, shirting, sweaters, outerwear … you get the drill. Particularly if you’ve got a lot of shopping to do all at once — or if you just love the fine mix of rugged-refined and luxurious goods sold at East Dane — it’s certainly worth shopping quite a bit. Now, note that a few choice Style Guide favorites — like Shinola & Wolverine — are either entirely or partially excluded from this sale. Even still, there are plenty of great goods out there. So, that begs the question — what exactly should you buy to get the most bang for your buck? That’s what we’re here for today. Shoot me a tweet on Twitter if you think I missed any deals — and a Happy (early) Thanksgiving, folks!

Outerwear: Billy Reid Bond Peacoat — $695 (Available via East Dane)

The best peacoat money can buy? It just might be.

The best peacoat money can buy? It just might be.

Now, the Bond Peacoat is the stuff of legend — at least according to this menswear blogger. It’s the perfect season for a stylish peacoat, and this is the one to buy. Originally named for Bond Street in New York City and the brand’s store there, it was made famous by none other than James Bond in “Skyfall.” The good news for you? This beautiful, refined wool-blend peacoat in a striking grey can be had for 20 percent off — that sort of deal doesn’t come around too often, I tell ya what.

Shirting: Todd Snyder Woven Camel Shirt Jacket — $199.50 (Available via East Dane)

A unique fabric, yet this shirt-jacket still has nicely versatile styling potential.

A unique fabric, yet this shirt-jacket still has nicely versatile styling potential.

Don’t own any shirts made with a luxurious camel hair weave? That’s alright — neither do I. Although if I were you and I needed a unique, tailored shirt to layer over rugged basics like a favorite fall henley, this is the shirt I’d snag. Todd Snyder makes a mix of luxe and tailored pieces that play off heritage style — a woven camel shirt-jacket gives you the styling potential of (you guessed it), a shirt jacket …. and yet you get the texture and refinement of a finely tailored camel topcoat. It’s also just a shade shy of the $200 barrier for that 15 percent off deal.

Sweaters: Club Monaco Marled Mockneck Sweater — $129.50 (Available via East Dane)

A unique alternative to more casual fall and winter sweater options.

A unique alternative to more casual fall and winter sweater options.

So, let’s say you’ve got a slim cardigan and a stylish crewneck sweater in your cold-weather layering arsenal … but you want something that captures a dressier, slightly rakish vibe? This Club Monaco mockneck sweater is just the ticket. In a refined navy color, it calls to mind the sort of layers worn by James Bond in “Spectre” — that is, layers that were minimal, refined and ready for action. As for you? This mockneck sweater can be layered under a wool blazer or worn with a durable leather jacket for high-low style that’s fit for winter.

Pants: Carhartt WIP Club Pants — $138 (Available via East Dane)

A unique pair of tapered tweed pants that can be worn casually or with tailored gear.

A unique pair of tapered tweed pants that can be worn casually or with tailored gear.

Now, the traditionally workwear-oriented folks at Carhartt have branched off in recent years with the more style-forward Carhartt WIP line. What’s more, these nicely tailored wool-blend tweed pants are a nice example of that new focus. If you’re looking for an alternative to cotton chinos or even durable selvedge denim, a pair of tweed pants in a comfortable, slightly stretch blend is the way to go. These pants can be worn with leather wingtips and a casual crewneck sweater for a blend of high-low style, and they’ll team up more than admirably with a winter blazer for a day at the office.

Buck Mason - Timeless Design. Made in America.

Footwear: Danner Mountain Light Overton Boots — $380 (Available via East Dane)

A durable, tough pair of hikers with a bit of style injected in the mix.

A durable, tough pair of hikers with a bit of style injected in the mix.

So, you’ve got a closet full of tough fall footwear essentials, like leather chukka boots, but you don’t have something quite sturdy enough for slick terrain? Enter the Danner Mountain Light Overton Boot — the brand’s quality and durability precedes itself. With a cowhide leather upper,  a GORE-TEX liner and a Vibram wedge sole, they’re a silhouette that’s sporty, functional and yet ready to pair with slim dark denim and a navy bomber for a weekend bar crawl. Ya dig?

So, there you go — sorting through a large sale can sometimes be a tricky endeavor — hopefully, those picks helped you out at least a little bit. And the great thing is, you’ve got more than enough time to shop away for key seasonal purchases. If you stick to reputable, stylish and long-lasting brands — like Billy Reid and Todd Snyder — and look to make investment-worthy purchases, you’ll set yourself up for success (as cheesy as that might sound). And with that being said, shop away and enjoy the holiday!

-Beau

by Beau H.

Style Suggestion: What to Wear to Thanksgiving Dinner

Editor’s note: Surf The Style Guide for more menswear suggestions for every occasion.

Ladies and gentleman, Style Guide fans and first-time readers … drum roll please … presenting the fourth (yes, FOURTH) Thanksgiving day style suggestion on this blog! It’s pretty wild. And yes, I said the same thing last year when reflecting on past entries. After all, that’s what this holiday is all about, right? The chance to sit back, reflect and think on all the things for which we’re thankful. From friends and family to my career in New York City to this blog, I’m thankful every day for the chance to do what I love, and share it with great people. It’s definitely on my mind as I prep to travel to Florida for the holiday — and given the impending warm weather, my travel style looks a bit different than the suggestion below (if you’ll be in a warm climate yourself, give these warm-weather style tips a once-over). Whether your holiday takes you somewhere a bit more casual or somewhere that calls for dressing to the nines, I hope you’ll pick out useful pieces from the below — or the whole outfit, maybe? At any rate, follow along via Instagram and Twitter for more useful style tips. Stay warm, travel safe and enjoy the holiday in style. Thanks, as always, for reading!

The Sweater: JackThreads Bear Sweater — $64

A sweater with a bear on it? Sure thing.

A sweater with a bear on it? Sure thing.

Yes, folks — that’s a sweater with a bear on it. A bit whimsical and fashion-forward? Slightly. A fun way to nod to the holiday season with a bit of color? It’s that one, too. It’s a fun piece that isn’t for everyone — a slim cardigan would also do the trick — but it’s a way to channel throwback vibes that seem to be everywhere in recent years, from retro leather sneakers to well, printed graphic sweaters. You could always grab a stylish crewneck sweater — sans the print — if you’re so inclined.

The Shirt: Taylor Stitch Everyday Chambray Shirt — $118

Taylor Stitch

It just doesn’t get any better than the Everyday Chambray Shirt from Taylor Stitch.

From transitional fall style to a weekend coffee date and nearly everywhere in between, the Taylor Stitch Everyday Chambray Shirt has your back — and then some.  It’s a true four-season shirt made with a 7oz. Japanese chambray that’s durable but not overly heavy. In short, it’s ideal for layering under that nifty sweater — or wearing on its own with the sleeves rolled up if you happen to be in a warmer location. The folks at Taylor Stitch get plenty of things right, and this much-loved slim chambray shirt is perfect for the holiday season — or really, any time of year.

The Pants: Flint & Tinder 365 Khaki Pant — $98

The ideal in-between option for Thanksgiving -- crisp enough to go dressy, casual enough to with a chambray shirt.

The ideal in-between option for Thanksgiving — crisp enough to go dressy, casual enough to with a chambray shirt.

Now, the 365 Khaki Pant from Flint & Tinder has proven to be a hot seller in recent weeks, so you might be better off snagging slim chinos from the likes of Bonobos. Heck, even a pair of Flint & Tinder denim might work in a pinch if you decide to go a bit more casual with your look. But if you do stick with the 365 Khaki Pant, you’re getting a classic five-pocket pant with quality construction and the sort of versatile style that works as well on Thanksgiving as it does during a spring Friday with your favorite pocket tee — that versatility is worth the price tag, and then some.

The Boots: Johnston & Murphy Karnes Captoe Boots — $198

A durable lug sole blended with a handsome tan color and a functional wool collar.

A durable lug sole blended with a handsome tan color and a functional wool collar.

Assuming you live in a state where it might be just a tad bit chilly or snowy, sturdy, stylish leather boots are going to be your best bet for fighting the weather and looking great.  With a comfortable and functional wool collar, sharp detailing across the toe and a rich tan color, the Karnes is the perfect complement to a rugged chambray shirt and slim five-pocket pants. They’re refined, yet still able to stand up ably to any foul weather — and the price ain’t half-bad, either.

The Watch: Armogan Spirit of St. Louis Chronograph — $194.98

Vintage numerals blended with triple chronograph functionality in a handsome package.

Vintage numerals blended with triple chronograph functionality in a handsome package.

When you need accessories that find that tricky middle ground between casual and dressed-up, where to turn? Well, Huckberry  has you covered — at least when it comes to the Armogan Spirit of St. Louis Chronograph. With a vintage-inspired dial inspired by the single-engine plane piloted by Charles Lindbergh, it’s a handsome conversation starter (and it’s not related to politics or your dating life, either). The triple chronograph movement adds functionality to a crisp white dial — and the whole thing will look great every other day of the year, too.

A straightforward casual leather belt with fall-ready texture.

A straightforward casual leather belt with fall-ready texture.

If you’re spending some extra coin on a slim chambray shirt and a stylish casual watch, there are ways to cut back your spending a bit elsewhere. An easygoing casual belt from J. Crew Factory is step one in that regard — you’re getting a braided leather belt with seasonally appropriate texture, one that strikes the right tone with the casual-rugged vibes of this ensemble. Ya dig? Good.
Textured cotton socks that complement the rest of this outfit ever so slightly.

Textured cotton socks that complement the rest of this outfit ever so slightly.

You didn’t think we forgot about socks, did you? The difference is in small style details, and whether you keep your shoes on in your own home or someone else’s, a pair of well-made comfortable socks are a nice thing to have in your top drawer. Seriously, no one wants to have ratty socks as you walk to get that turkey sandwich — right? American Trench makes some of the best pairs in the game, and these pair perfectly with the cream sweater, blue shirt and khaki pants.
The Hat: Carhartt WIP Key Ribbed Beanie, $35 (Available via East Dane)
Simple, stylish and effective -- everything a good beanie should be.

Simple, stylish and effective — everything a good beanie should be.

This particular beanie has come up before from the good folks at Carhartt WIP. The brand makes pieces that merge functionality and a slightly fashion-forward approach, but this simple ribbed navy beanie is as straightforward as it gets. Particularly if you get outside for a game of backyard football, you’ll want a beanie that can keep you warm and work with the rest of your outfit — no athletic logos in sight on this thing.

Beckett Simonon

The above #menswear ensemble goes to show you that great style can go a long way, even when spending the day surrounded by family and friends — possibly in your own home. Starting with classic, essential basics — like a stylish chambray shirt and khaki pants — allows you to have a bit of fun with a printed sweater. And when chilly weather comes calling, rugged-refined leather boots a navy beanie are just the ticket in terms of versatile, functional style. Plus, the Spirit of St. Louis Chronograph can work just as well for your 9-to-5 grind as it can when spending time with family and friends. How will you be enjoying the holiday? Chime in over on The Style Guide Facebook page when you get the chance.

And of course, know that I’m thankful for all of you who read this blog — we’ve got more menswear in store this week, that’s for sure!

-Beau

by Beau H.

#OOTD: Business Casual Fall 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.

So, we ran into a bit of a conundrum last week on The Style Guide when we talked about how to dress for a casual fall day. We’re nearly through November, and the weather’s been so up-and-down … how does one dress to meet those demands? And if you’ve got to switch from casual fall style to sharp fall style, just how do you do it? Particularly, how does one dress in business casual fall style? Maybe your office isn’t the type of place where a suit and tie is required (it seems few offices are nowadays) — heck, maybe it’s a place where a collared shirt isn’t needed all that often. But let’s say you want to up your game going into a prime cold-weather dressing season — or perhaps, you just need an excuse to refresh some business casual style staples. Now, we’ve talked about how to dress for a business casual office in the summer, but dressing for the fall is a bit different — for starters, you’ll be needing another layer or two depending on the weather. What other #OOTD tips do we have to share? Well my friends, you’ll just have to read on below. Oh, and if you’re scrambling for something to wear for Thanksgiving later this week? A few of the below pieces will come in just as handy for turkey time as they will for your next office meeting. Keep up with The Style Guide (AKA yours truly) on the daily via Twitter and Instagram, and leave any suggestions for this ensemble in the comments below. Deal? Deal.

Can you go wrong with a navy jacket & khaki five-pocket pants? Hardly.

Can you go wrong with a navy jacket & khaki five-pocket pants? Hardly.

The Jacket: Taylor Stitch Telegraph Jacket in Navy, $219.98 — Make no mistake, this jacket features a bit of a unique fabric blend, especially in chilly weather — textured wool & linen chambray aren’t exactly a regular fall combo. But for a four-season jacket with modern styling potential, it doesn’t get better.

The Topcoat: Old Navy Tweed Topcoat, $124.94 — If you were worried about staying warm on a chilly November or December day, don’t be. This Old Navy tweed topcoat is a heck of a bargain and features a nice fit.

The Shirt: Bonobos Jetsetter Dress Shirt in Solid Light Blue, $128 — With a range of customizable options — from the collar to your choice of pocket, plus a dialed-in Bonobos fit, this is a classic dress shirt — a tad pricey, but very solid. Note that we’re ditching the tie, but I’d say you should accessorize with a crisp textured pocket square.

The Pants: Flint and Tinder 365 Khaki Pant, $98 — OK, so you’ve got a sharp jacket and a stylish dress shirt covered … but your office is too casual to go with a full-on suit. Reach for a tailored pair of crisp five-pocket pants — versatile, slim-fitting and equally at home in spring or fall.

The Shoes: Johnston & Murphy Duvall Wingtips, $99.99 — While you could also go with a pair of classic leather chukka boots here, sharp wingtips are just as appropriate and lend a bit of polish to this ensemble.

The Socks: American Trench Merino and Cashmere Fair Isle Socks, $19.98 — Merino AND cashmere, you say? It’s a heck of a luxurious combo for socks, and these ones from American Trench should feel comfortable while fitting great.

The Watch: Armogan Spirit of St. Louis Chronograph, $194.98 –Watches from Armogan work particularly well for business casual situations, what with their crisp designs and slightly larger (and thus more casual) case sizings. Case in point — the Armogan Spirit of St. Louis Chronograph.

The Gloves: Hestra Edward Sheepskin Wool Lined Gloves, $125 (Available via East Dane) — Hey, we said it’d be cold, right? What better way to fight the chill in style than with a pair of rich brown leather gloves?
Beckett Simonon

So, if you still feel like you’re not ready to dress for fall in business casual style, I’d suggest you snap up one or more of the above picks. Particularly when it comes to a crisp, sharp jacket like the Taylor Stitch Telegraph Jacket,  you’re getting a piece that can work in multiple seasons with just a few extra layers. And that’s just as true with the ever-versatile Flint and Tinder 365 Khaki Pant — casual enough for a laidback office, and at home on a fall or spring weekend.  When you throw in accessories like beautiful merino-and-cashmere Fair Isle socks and a handsome chronograph watch, you’re looking at a complete fall outfit. Got questions? Send me an email or drop us a line in the comments — and let me know how it works for you!

Stay stylish,

-Beau

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!

dickies-photo

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.