Online Shopping Picks: Best Men’s Blazers for Fall and Winter

Editor’s note: For a plethora of Online Shopping Picks delving into accessories, footwear and knitwear, head right this way.

Ready to take on fall in this "old" photo circa 2014. Blazer & chambray shirt by J. Crew. Slim jeans by Scotch & Soda. Shawl cardigan by GAP. Knit tie by Frank & Oak. Brown wingtip boots by JC Penney. Photo credit: Khoa Nguyen.

Ready to take on fall in this “old” photo circa 2014. Tan herringbone blazer & chambray shirt by J. Crew. Pocket square by Banana Republic. Slim jeans by Scotch & Soda. Shawl cardigan by GAP. Knit tie by Frank & Oak. Brown wingtip boots by JC Penney. Stainless steel dive watch by Invicta. Glasses by Burberry. Photo credit: Khoa Nguyen.

As is often the case in the world of men’s style, it seems that sometimes the seasons change too quickly — on the writing front, that is. Last week, we tackled excellent henleys to transition into fall weather in earnest (for most of us, at least), and now your humble author will gladly take a stab at the best cold-weather blazers out there on the market — because those things have been on shelves far too long now for you not to buy one, right? Keep in mind that a great lighter weight blazer (one from this list) could definitely transition into the slight chill of fall when layered appropriately. Heck, I even have an unconstructed blazer I’ve worn in the Michigan winter, layered up with a V-neck sweater (of course). But let’s say you want something thicker to stand up to chilly weather — a la the trusty J. Crew blazer (sadly, long gone from shelves) at the top of the page. That’s what this edition of Online Shopping Picks will cover — but you’ll have to foot the rest of the bill for a new jacket. [Editor’s note: Some might take issue with the definition of a blazer here — these styles are sometimes called sportcoats — but we’ll stick with blazer terminology for now. To clear up any confusion, head here].

#1. Uniqlo Wool Blended Comfort Jacket — $99.90

As previously seen on this site's Fall Style Wish List, Uniqlo delivers on another great fall & winter blazer.

As previously seen on this site’s Fall Style Wish List, Uniqlo delivers on another great fall & winter blazer.

Does this jacket look familiar at all? Of course it does (at least if you caught it at the top of my Fall Style Wish List). Some might have issues with Uniqlo’s fit, as the tail of its jackets and its sleeves generally run a little shorter and slimmer than most, but the brand does make an outstanding jacket (is it a blazer? a sportcoat) for the price. These jackets certainly lean casual given the lack of construction, but in a deeper, saturated shade like the Grey Plaid on the far left or even the Dark Green option as seen on the site, it’s a jacket that could absolutely be paired with dress trousers and some sharp black shoes for the office.

#2. J. Crew Factory Thompson Elbow-patch Sportcoat in Tweed — $168

A four-season shade of navy merged with suede elbow patches for fall and winter.

A four-season shade of navy merged with suede elbow patches for fall and winter.

Rustic, slightly throwback-focused details like suede elbow patches have been making a comeback in clothing items for the past couple years now, and designers aren’t pulling the plug on this added touch just yet. In the case of this blazer, it works quite well, calling to mind old hunting jackets. And this piece has some other things going for it, too — namely, you get J. Crew-like quality at a lower price than some similar models at the big brother retailer. The slightly flashier touch of those elbow patches is grounded by a nice shade of navy, which should work well over dark denim or grey wool trousers. The patches make it more casual and thus a little less versatile — thus dropping it to spot no. 2 here. Still, it’s a jacket that could see a lot of use in the coming months.  If you’ve got some bulk to you and want a jacket that ditches the elbow patches, the mainline brand is making a blazer in a similar shade in its roomier, more athletic Crosby fit.

#3. Apolis Indigo Wool Blazer — $388

The ideal balance of tradition and modern style, done up in an on-trend color and luxurious fabric.

The ideal balance of tradition and modern style, done up in an on-trend color and luxurious fabric.

Whoa, now. Almost $400 for a blazer? In spot #3? Yes, yes indeed — and here’s why. The argument can definitely be made here for investing in quality pieces that provide a long-term benefit; a terrific wool blazer, sure to be warm, well-made and endlessly versatile, can serve you well for seasons and years to come. And the way Apolis makes ’em, you know you’re getting a quality product. Not everyone has the kind of, er, capital to invest in such a piece, but this option has all the makings of a classic jacket if you do take the plunge. The double vents and deep indigo color make it the closest to a traditional blazer of any of the bunch seen here, yet it leans modern thanks to the slim fit. Wear it with some broken-in denim,  wear it with black corduroy pants for some edge — heck, wear it over a T-shirt.

#4. GAP Herringbone Blazer — $89.95

A nice color combo and casual patch pockets make this one blazer to take business-casual ... or just casual.

A nice color combo and casual patch pockets make this one blazer to take business-casual … or just casual.

Now, that’s more like it. We turn to a reliable standby at an affordable price for option #4. It’s somewhat concerning that the fit looks a bit … off in these photos, so this might be a good pick to try on in store. The price is not so expensive that it’d be too much of a pain to tailor. But note that the sleeves feature functioning cuffs, which can be an absolute mess to get tailored. However, the fabric blend, cool grey color and patch pockets make this an ideal blazer to throw on over, say, a white Oxford, red V-neck and dark jeans in a business casual setting — if the fit is on-point. Since the patch pockets do push it into casual territory, you could even mix it up and toss it over a long-sleeve henley. A word to the wise — keep your eyes open for the launch of The Hill-side’s capsule collection for GAP very soon; there’s likely to be a great blazer or two in there (Editor’s note: Check out the full rundown via GQ as of 9/23). 

#5. Everlane Luxe Sweater Blazer — $165

Part blazer, part sweater and all casual style in one high-quality Everlane piece.

Part blazer, part sweater and all casual style in one high-quality Everlane piece.

Is this a sweater? A blazer? A swacket? Whatever you call it, the Luxe Sweater Blazer definitely walks the line between casual and crisp style — exactly the type of versatility a nice blazer (or swacket) should provide in the colder months. It should almost wear like the Uniqlo wool blend jacket seen at the top of the page — easygoing enough over a crewneck sweatshirt (for both warmth and casual style), and high-quality enough to pair with a chambray dress shirt. From personal experience with Everlane, its products fit slim, and jackets like these often feature a nice hint of stretch — key when you still need mobility underneath a topcoat. This is one blazer in particular that would pair especially well with high-low combos — think slim chinos  plus vintage-inspired runners.

The competition across the board as this post was assembled was pretty cutthroat (or as cutthroat as writing about blazers can be). Brands like Bonobos, with its Italian Knit Blazer, are giving more established brethren like J. Crew a run for their money in the looks (and price) department. As was previously alluded to, The Hill-side is also quickly establishing itself as a player in the splurge blazer game — this Selvedge Mini-Houndstooth Tailored Jacket in Indigo has a great workwear vibe to it, not to mention a high price. Stick to affordable (or at the very least, classic) and versatile options when picking up a great blazer or two this season though, and you’ll reap those rewards as soon as the leaves start to turn.
Ben Sherman US
What’s your go-to fall and winter blazer? Are you planning on refreshing your closet with any of the picks here?

Ernest Alexander

Style Upgrade: Dark Denim

A quick and easy style upgrade that only involves knowing your pant size. Dark denim pictured from Mott & Bow. Olive leather slip-ons by GREATS Brand. Organic cotton pocket T-shirt  by United By Blue. Glasses by Warby Parker. Stainless steel dive watch by Invicta.

A quick and easy style upgrade that only involves knowing your pant size. Dark denim pictured from Mott & Bow. Olive leather slip-ons by GREATS Brand. Organic cotton pocket T-shirt by United By Blue. Glasses by Warby Parker. Stainless steel dive watch by Invicta.

Editor’s note: If you read this blog regularly, you might recall this post was supposed to cover Taylor Stitch chinos. However, they’re sold out for right now. Oops! So we move onto the next topic on The Style Guide. This is the second in an ongoing series covering quick and easy upgrades to dilemmas a guy might face once in a while. For more entries in the series, click here.

When I first started writing about men’s style for this site about two years ago, one of the first topics I covered was the idea of Style Essentials — basics that can help any guy look good in nearly any situation. That’s a topic that’s still near and dear to my heart, and it’s certainly still relevant when plotting out ways to look one’s best. While I’m still learning a lot about the ever-evolving world of men’s style, I thought it about high time to revisit this topic — from a slightly wiser, slightly older perspective (perhaps?). And there might not be a better style upgrade to make than switching out your pants — maybe from something a bit baggier or faded to something cleaner, trimmer and darker. We’re talking, of course, about the indispensable pair of dark denim you should hopefully have in your closet, folks.

My friend Barron Cuadro of Effortless Gent showing off one way to style dark denim.

My friend Barron Cuadro of Effortless Gent showing off one way to style dark denim.

No matter what stage you might be at in  your style evolution, something as crisp as dark denim can act as a style catalyst or a rejuvenator from which to build all kinds of outfits. That goes for weekend wear — like with white sneakers and a slub T-shirt, and makes its way to office wear during the week — alongside a crisp blazer and a chambray shirt, for instance. My friend from Barron of Effortless Gent nails this concept perfectly. It’s one of the  only things you can do to change up your wardrobe that just involves knowing your pant size (and maybe what brand you might prefer to wear).

Every discussion about upgrading the denim in your closet should probably start with the originator of the classic blue jean — Levi’s. Although its styles have undergone some changes through the years, there are few style upgrades that can’t be met with a classic like the Levi’s 513 jean — the slim-straight fit flatters lots of body types, while the dark, crisp color looks better year-round than other overly distressed jeans. On a looser but still fitted front, the Levi’s 514 jean is available for under $40 — a heck of a price.

J. Crew's take on the classic blue jean features a tailored fit and crisp color.

J. Crew’s take on the classic blue jean features a tailored fit and crisp color.

Keep in mind that the brand also does tapered fits like the 511 jean, too. Modern-day #menswear mainstay J. Crew has plenty to say about denim upgrades too, and its 484 jean in a deep “Resin Crinkle Wash” fits the bill perfectly. And although it’s been a very hot seller, the 770 jean in that same wash would provide the roomier (yet still somewhat tailored) fit that athletic guys might prefer. Ponying up a pretty penny could also nab you a pair of The Blue Jean from Bonobos, featuring fits ranging from Bootcut (preferably avoided, however!) to Tailored (a trim fit similar to a Levi’s 511). The Slim Crosby Jean from Mott & Bow would also be a particularly agreeable purchase (check out more on the brand here), as would something in a slimmer fit — like the Mosco seen below (Editor’s note: Get 15% your first purchase with the brand using this link).

Dark denim with a hint of stretch, like the Mosco Skinny fit from Mott & Bow, also works well for  this style upgrade. Spring Plaid Shirt by Gustin. Brown leather watch by Stuhrling. Glasses by Warby Parker.

Dark denim with a hint of stretch, like the Mosco Skinny fit from Mott & Bow, also works well for this style upgrade. Spring Plaid Shirt by Gustin. Brown leather watch by Stuhrling. Glasses by Warby Parker.

And to expand the pool of options even further, even Old Navy is now peddling dark denim — this time, for under $30 on sale. While those might not last as long as a hefty pair from iconic denim purveyor Gustin, they’d certainly get the job done. But if you feel like going all out on this particular style upgrade and won’t have anything less than the best, brands like 3Sixteen have developed a cult-ish following for the quality of their denim (and the resulting jean fades).
Ernest Alexander
Whichever option you might decide to go with — whether it’s time for a denim restock or the first purchase — reaching for something with a clean navy color and a trimmer fit won’t lead you astray. Dark denim is the type of pant that works virtually anywhere — unless, of course, it’s presentation time in the boardroom or time to suit up for the red carpet. Other than that though — reach for a great pair or two and see how you style them.

Have you made this Style Upgrade yet? What’s your go-to pair of dark denim?
Ben Sherman US

The Friday Read: Bonobos’ Future, Summer Travel and the Triple Crown

Ben Sherman US

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.

So as I mentioned earlier this week (did you catch the latest post on travel style?), I’m heading down to Charleston, South Carolina for a family wedding — the forecast calls for temps above 90 degrees, so I’ll be doing  my best to stay cool (and dress stylishly, of course). Are your summer travel plans heating up yet? Or are you just looking forward to some much-needed down time this weekend? If that’s the case, get a look at four pieces worth your valuable reading-focused downtime. And before you hit the road, perhaps consider entering this stunning giveaway opportunity from eco-friendly retailer United By Blue — worth more than $1,300 in hardy and stylish travel gear from like-minded brands.

  • Racked put together a positively fascinating and fun piece on my former employer Bonobos (Editor’s note: Full disclosure, I worked there as a PR intern there last summer) and the history — and more importantly, the future — of the disruptive menswear company.
  • A shorter read packed with some stunning photos, Selectism takes you instead a perforated brick house in Vietnam. Unusual and yet filled with some neat shots.
  • As part of its guide to getting through the summer, InsideHook offers 14 items, from accessories to footwear, worth packing for summer travel. (For all the great grooming and travel-related add-ons you might need, head here).
  • Long Read of the Week: Sports and pop culture site Grantland waxes poetic on American Pharaoh winning the Triple Crown last weekend.

That’s all for this week’s reading roundup — need more style content?

  • If you need a stellar timepiece at a stellar price, I penned a piece on VOUCH Mag covering a quick-moving Kickstarter campaign from Alberta Watches.
  • Catch up with Clay Chambers of the terrific  men’s lifestyle website Brothers and Craft as part of an ongoing Style Q&A series here on The Style Guide.

Ernest Alexander

Florsheim

Online Shopping Picks: Best Men’s Swimsuits for Summer

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007. Nice swim trunks, right?

007. Nice swim trunks, right?

First of all: We should all aspire (I think) to get to a  007-level type of fitness — and of course, to own clothing options like the Orlebar Brown swim trunks pictured above (but more on those later). Even if you don’t have the bank account of everyone’s favorite secret agent (or the physique), upping your swimwear game should be top of mind for the warmer months. Baggy boardshorts are the norm a lot of places where the water hits the sand (or even the sides of your local pool), but streamlining your swim trunks is a nice style move that’s an extension of dressing better everyday. And if you’ve already got that down and are just looking for a new pair of trunks, look no further than the picks assembled by your humble #menswear writer below.

#1. J. Crew Factory 7″ Tab Swim Short in Anchor — $39.50

The styling touches of shorts combined with the functionality of swim trunks.

The styling touches of shorts combined with the functionality of swim trunks.

The first noticeable thing about this pair of swim shorts is that they … don’t really look like typical swim trunks in terms of styling. The lack of a drawstring waistband and the more tailored appearance are both definitely good things, though. The slant pockets and tab front are also touches you would find on a pair of shorts, and doing away with the stylistic trappings of a baggy pair of swim trunks is certainly a great upgrade. The print is fun and nautical, too — the company’s seersucker version is slightly toned down but still warm-weather friendly, on the other hand. Best of all? That price, which helps you keep more cash on-hand for that beer you need to bring to the beach.

#2. H&M Striped Swimshort — $17.50

A low, low price point that's hopefully not indicative of overall quality.

A low, low price point that’s hopefully not indicative of overall quality.

For those looking for something slightly more basic than the above pair (yet still want some color and pattern), H&M has you covered with these swimshorts. The price is typical of H&M, but hopefully this isn’t the type of swimsuit that’ll go to pieces as soon as you wear it. The touches here are more traditional — the drawstring waistband is back, as is a Velcro back pocket. However, even this pair is better than a baggier set of trunks that hang below your knees. And you could even pick up a back-up set in one of nearly a dozen colors or patterns.

#3. J. Crew 7″ Boardshort with Contrast Pocket — $75

A classic offering from a classic brand.

A classic offering from a classic brand.

The more traditional counterpart to the JCF trunks listed above (yet still a style upgrade). J. Crew’s swimwear options, like the rest of its apparel offerings, hit things straight down the middle of the fairway as far as style goes — the 7″ length of these J. Crew swim shorts should work with those at a range of different heights, as they eliminate the fabric of the typical baggy boardshort and keeps things slimmer overall. The light blue color and contrasting white waistband and back pocket are old-school, athletic-inspired touches. While not fully the type of swim trunk you could wear straight out to a casual dockside dinner afterward, the styling is ideal and the price is pretty agreeable.

#4. Bonobos Amalfi Boardshort — $150

A vibrant print and tailored touches make this pair stand out nicely.

A vibrant print and tailored touches make this pair stand out nicely.

Option number four on this list comes to us courtesy of Bonobos — the brand is also taking a more tailored approach to its swimwear, much like several of its menswear counterparts. These Amalfi Boardshorts also offer the crisp, classic design touches of the J. Crew Factory boardshorts seen above, but at a much higher price point; the Italian-sourced fabric and Italian-designed prints definitely see to that.  They feature the brand’s famous curved waistband, which should offer comfort not normally found in swim trunks. While the print is louder, this is one pair that gives off a very continental vibe.

#5. Orlebar Brown Setter Swim Trunks in Sky — $230

 

As luxe a swimsuit as it gets right now.

As luxe a swimsuit as it gets right now.

Gulp. That price tag. But still — worthy of an inclusion as the official swim trunk of James Bond himself. These are perhaps the most luxe pair of swim trunks on the market right now; they do feature a substantially shorter inseam than other pairs on this list (roughly 4.3″) but they still wear like a pair of (very) tailored shorts thanks to the side tabs and front metal slide (or “popper”) closure. They’re available in a range of colors, but the Sky version seen here is the one 007 wore to get in his laps in Skyfall. If you’re particularly ambitious and like hunting and waiting for a good sale, a fairly wide selection of Orlebar Brown swim trunks are actually available through Nordstrom. Let me know how the search goes and good luck on your latest mission, 007.

Of course, any online roundup that narrows things down to five picks is bound to slot some pieces into the ‘Honorable Mention’ spot — if you fancy a larger selection of trunks, STAG Provisions offers up an array of potential picks from both classic retailers like Birdwell and more fashion-forward brands like Saturdays Surf NYC.  Of course, price, fit and versatility are key to keep in mind when picking up a pair of trunks — hopefully, each of these five will carry you far (or at least to the water) this summer.

What’s your favorite of these selections? Which pair are you planning on picking up — or have you already done so? Shoot me a note or leave it all in the comments!

Ernest Alexander

Florsheim

 

Style Pick of the Week: Bonobos Riviera Short-Sleeve Floral Shirt

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

A wild blue floral print grounded thanks to subtle stripes.

A wild blue floral print grounded thanks to subtle stripes.

By this time next week, we’ll be into June — that means weather that’s hot and getting hotter.  Keeping cool and staying stylish is about to become a daily ordeal, but a printed short-sleeve button-up shirt is the well-dressed guy’s secret weapon in the fight against heat. Short-sleeve shirts (like this previous Style Pick from Saturdays Surf NYC) are an easy pickup for afternoons and evenings on patios and beaches — and you might even be able to get away with wearing one to the office under a well-fitting blazer. They don’t sacrifice style or fit, particularly one from Bonobos. As with most of the company’s menswear offerings nowadays, this short-sleeve floral in particular has a lot going for it.

A slightly more subdued printed shirt cut from the same comfortable fabric.

A slightly more subdued printed shirt cut from the same comfortable fabric.

The pattern isn’t an obnoxious multi-color Hawaiian floral print that you might have seen out and about at a barbeque in days gone by; the navy flowers are downplayed by the  light blue stripes on the shirt. But if the floral pattern’s too much, you could always pick up a slightly more subdued navy-based shirt like this one (also pictured above). The  color combination on the floral print shirt in and of itself though means that this shirt is wearable with lightwash jeans, dark denim or, perhaps most crucially, khaki shorts and white sneakers. Both Slim and  Standard sizing options are available in several sizes as of post time, too. But as warm weather heats up, shirts like this won’t stick around too long — pick yours up while they’re still in stock.

Have you bought your summer shirt yet? What’s your experience been like with Bonobos?

Ernest Alexander

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Online Shopping Picks: Best Spring & Summer T-Shirts

One of my favorite warm-weather T-shirts. Nautical printed shirt by J. Crew Factory. Navy herringbone shorts by Frank & Oak. White sneakers by GREATS Brand. Glasses by Warby Parker. Photo credit: Liz Todd.

One of my favorite warm-weather T-shirts. Nautical printed shirt by J. Crew Factory. Navy herringbone shorts by Frank & Oak. White sneakers by GREATS Brand. Glasses by Warby Parker. Photo credit: Liz Todd.

Editor’s note: For more online shopping picks covering everything from great brands, gift guides and the best warm-weather blazers and shorts, head here.

A T-shirt’s a pretty simple item of clothing, right? Not too much to think about, certainly? When you look at it that way, any old graphic T-shirt will do. But so many brands and designers are upgrading this simple, iconic item of clothing with richer colors, better fabric and texture, more nuanced details and even wilder patterns that you would typically find on buttondown shirts. And that’s why it’s a better choice in this case to reach for something other than a plain ol’ white crewneck T-shirt or (particularly) a tank top. Some tanks are well-made and definitely work for some guys, but that’s beside the point — a T-shirt or short-sleeve henley just looks a bit better and could even be considered a bit more versatile.  Here are five solid (non-tank) options to round out your warm-weather wardrobe.

#1. J. Crew Factory Slim Placed Stripe Tee — $24.50

An upgraded basic thanks to some small design details.

An upgraded basic thanks to some small design details.

So this T-shirt will set you back a bit more than paying for a pack of classic white T-shirts — but there’s a reason for that upgraded price tag. J. Crew Factory’s quality is, by some accounts, on par with its elder sibling J. Crew when it comes to basics like this. This tee combines a slim fit with a nice shade of navy perfect for pairing with spring shorts or khaki chinos — the white, nautical-leaning stripe and chest pocket are also subtle design touches that differentiate it from a plain crewneck. Note that Old Navy has a nearly identical version of this piece for about half the price, although you lose out a bit on quality.

#2. Pistol Lake Short-Sleeve Henley — $35

Changing up the typical crewneck or pocket T-shirt. Henley by Pistol Lake. Stainless steel dive watch by Invicta. Dark denim by Mott & Bow.

Changing up the typical crewneck or pocket T-shirt. Henley by Pistol Lake. Stainless steel dive watch by Invicta. Dark denim by Mott & Bow.

The second option on this list isn’t a plain pocket T-shirt, to be sure, but everyone needs some diversity in their warm-weather wardrobe (this coming from a guy who’s got about three crewneck pocket tees in his closet). And a henley is a perfectly rugged way to break up the typical short-sleeve shirt rotation. This pick from Pistol Lake is as solid a choice as you’re going to get — made from soft, breathable 6 oz. jersey cotton, it’s sturdy and well-constructed. The price is a tad higher than a  standard pick, but you support American-made ingenuity and attention to detail.

#3. Buck Mason Navy Crew Slub Tee — $24

Slouchier collar, rounded shirttail and a deep navy color — definitely not the standard crewneck.

Slouchier collar, rounded shirttail and a deep navy color — definitely not the standard crewneck.

For all the talk here about breaking things up visually with a solid chest pocket, sometimes there are, in fact, crewneck options sans pocket that work well. In this case, the navy crew slub tee from Buck Mason combines a slightly wider collar with an inky indigo color and slubby texture for some different visual details. The rounded hem is a touch also not seen on other T-shirts, and it’s got the kind of easygoing vibe that just works in the spring and summer. Its price, again, goes toward supporting made-in-America production, which seems to be missing a lot of places these days.

#4. Bonobos Yarn Spun Heather Printed Tee — $45

An eye-popping pattern and a rather eye-popping price, too.

An eye-popping pattern and a rather eye-popping price, too.

A couple of things might catch your eye about this T-shirt — for one, the price is pretty darn high for a basic. And that pattern will absolutely turn some heads (it’s also available in a green floral option). Bonobos is definitely to be applauded for its commitment to breaking away from just making pants; this T-shirt in particular shows that. It’s the kind of pattern that will work for some … and might not work for others. But if you’re heading to the beach or a fun summer party, this is one way to upgrade a plain tee or tank top.

#5. Gustin Pocket T-Shirt 2 or 3-Pack — $28 or $42

Three colors of this pocket T-shirt were available in the first run. Photo courtesy of Gustin.

Three colors of this pocket T-shirt were available in the first run. Photo courtesy of Gustin.

Now this next option here is slightly tricky owing to the nature of Gustin’s business model. The San Franciso-based, US-production-led outfit produces runs of items only when they’re 100 percent funded — so if an item funds quicker than expected (or if it doesn’t fund at all — very rare), you miss out on the chance to buy it. However, new varieties of everything from T-shirts to denim are being added nearly daily, so it shouldn’t be too hard to stock up on a 2 or 3-pack of pocket T-shirts. Currently, the company is offering up a 2-pack of black or white pocket T-shirts — that pocket is the ideal way to break up the plain-ness of a white or black crewneck, although something like heather grey would be more versatile when it’s on tap again for the brand.

In any roundup, and particularly ones involving a basic item made nearly everywhere, there are going to be some left out. Bonobos’ Yarn Spun Striped Pocket Tee in a soft-washed red is a covetable choice thanks to that sunfaded color and subtle stripes, and even Buck Mason’s Army Green Crew Slub Tee was tough to pass up.  The Slub-Knit Pocket Tee from Old Navy was also a close finisher, but just missed the cut — keep in mind that places like GAP also do simple, affordably priced basics.

What’s your go-to summer T-shirt? Will you be picking up (or have you already bought) any of the above picks?

 

Style Pick of the Week: GAP Chambray Shirt

"Clean wash" chambray shirt and red henley by GAP. Slim jeans by Bonobos. Watch by Invicta, Sneakers by Billy Reid for K-Swiss.

Chambray shirt and red henley by GAP. Slim jeans by Bonobos. Watch by Invicta, Sneakers by Billy Reid for K-Swiss.

Editor’s note: For more Style Picks of the Week, see here.

This week’s Style Pick of the Week comes from a retailer that doesn’t necessarily get heaps of praise when it comes to guys’ style: GAP (or The Gap, if we’re going for that). Don’t be so quick to write them off — while they drew the ire of the media for their “Dress Normal” campaign this past fall, there are some key takeaways that can be gleaned from the brand. Namely,  dressing “normal” isn’t such a bad thing — and great basics can be styled lots of different ways. The chambray shirt is the perfect epitome of that.

Just one of the many ways to style Gap's clean chambray shirt. Watch by Invicta. Braided leather belt by Target Merona.

Just one of the many ways to style Gap’s clean chambray shirt. Watch by Invicta. Braided leather belt by Target Merona. Dark jeans by Bonobos.

Chambray is a fabric that’s as close to a four-season shirting option as a blue or white Oxford cloth button-down, especially in a medium-to-dark wash like the option seen here. The color pairs exceptionally well with deep blue denim and other four-season standards like khaki & olive chinos. It looks even better with other spring colors like washed-out reds, light greens, light grey and even darker shades of blue. It can easily be layered over lighter pieces, worn under a V-neck or navy crewneck sweater, or styled up with a wool tie and winter blazer. It’s also breathable enough to wear on its own or under a khaki or navy cotton jacket when it’s warm. It’s well within reach at full price and dips down into the $30 range on-sale. With spring well on the way, it’s prime time to snag one for yourself.

Do you have a chambray shirt in your rotation? Would you pick up this option here?

Online Shopping Picks: Best Spring Jackets

Just a few weeks ago on this very site, I wrote about great boots to get you through what was looking to be a long winter slog. Since then, things have taken a turn for the better weather-wise. But we’re not out of the woods yet — there’s a good chance rain and blustery winds are still on the way. And that’s where the below jackets should come in mighty handy. Although this is by no means a definitive list, the following picks feature lightweight materials and sharp, streamlined silhouettes for layering over casual or dressy outfits. Have a look and let me know your thoughts below!

#1. Grayers Russel Baseball Jacket — $155

The blue herringbone blends a cold-weather pattern with warm-weather construction.

The blue herringbone blends a cold-weather pattern with warm-weather construction.

Grayers is in a somewhat enviable spot as far as menswear brands go — they’ve gotten some great early press coverage and exposure, they’re sold in a major retailer nationwide (Nordstrom) and to boot, they make awesome staple pieces that blend the prep appeal of the Northeast with the continental vibe of England. This cotton knit bomber jacket features sporty striped cuffs and comes in an eyecatching blue herringbone pattern. It would be ideal for wearing over a white henley and lightwash jeans on the weekend.

#2. Wallace & Barnes A-2 Bomber Jacket — $198

Colorblocked and in a trimmer fit than Top Gun.

Colorblocked and in a trimmer fit than Top Gun.

The second pick on this list is yet another bomber jacket, but for valid reasons. The silhouette is a classic one that’s been slimmed-down and given a slightly more fashion-forward slant thanks to the colorblocking. It’s also in a not-too-dark, not-too-light shade of medium blue (or abyss blue, as they call it) that’ll wear well even with dark denim and other shades of blue. It’s on the pricier side from J. Crew’s workwear-inspired Wallace & Barnes line, so the quality’s there, too. Note that GAP also has a dark navy bomber jacket for $100 less.

#3. Bonobos Crosstown Trench in Grey — $328

A belted trench coat that manages to be understated at the same time.

A belted trench coat that manages to be understated at the same time.

Before the bomber jacket became a ubiquitous style piece, there was the trench coat. The style never really left the scene and perhaps became even more iconic thanks to brands like Burberry, but this Bonobos trench coat has a more minimalist vibe in charcoal. It’s got a belted back and a no-frills front with a covered button placket and a collar that can be popped up for maximum rain protection. The price is a bit high, but if you throw it on every day in the rain, it should hopefully begin to pay for itself. And it should fit on the trimmer side knowing Bonobos. Finally, the neutral dark grey color gives off a city-ready, noir-ish vibe …. right?

#4. Ben Sherman Harrington Cotton Jacket — $27.99

A stunningly low price for an iconic style.

A stunningly low price for an iconic style.

Yes, you read the above price right — Saks Off Fifth has this Harrington cotton jacket available in sizes running from small to 2XL (as of post time) for less than $30. While the light beige color isn’t for everyone, the price is probably favorable enough to make a few of us change our minds. And when you consider that these same jackets are going for more than $100 more over on the  … well, this is one of those things you almost have to buy. It would work best with neutral colors in terms of pants and shirts — think black, navy and white — as opposed to earthy tones like olive.

#5. Forever21 Quilted Bomber Jacket — $24.90

Moody stare not included with jacket purchase.

Moody stare not included with jacket purchase.

While Forever21 isn’t known for the highest-quality pieces, let’s say you’ve already got one or two styles mentioned above and want something even more casual and easy-wearing. This would be that coat — the colorblocking and quilted details keep it on-trend without looking gaudy. It’s not water-resistant or waterproof so it loses some points there, but over a short-sleeve henley and some colorful shorts, it should work well enough. It’s also available in an olive-and-black color.

Honorable Mention: 

Sometimes round-ups aren’t big enough to include every possible style of jacket — you’ll notice military jackets weren’t featured heavily, for example. Consider these listings below a best-of-the-rest.

Frank & Oak Kingston Bomber in Charcoal, $125 — A new addition to the site courtesy of this month’s Hunt Club that gets a lot of things right — including the price, the color and the lightweight nylon-poly blend.

Ben Sherman Harrington Jacket, $140 — The original and best. Also linked to above. A simple, go-anywhere silhouette, the iconic blue-and-red mini-check pattern lining, and plenty of colors.

Old Navy Lightweight Anorak, $40 — Perhaps the biggest combination of functionality and affordability on this list, it lost out on a spot because the best color option was blue — and sometimes, there is such a thing as too much blue.

What’s your take on the picks above? What jackets are in your arsenal for spring and any that were missed above? 

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Spring Style Wish List

It might not feel much like spring yet around these parts (or elsewhere for that matter), but rest assured — it’s on its way. That probably has lots of us plotting and scheming how to get our hands on product geared toward spring weather. (Just picked up one of these in white earlier this week, in fact). Whereas fall and winter dressing centers around layering up, spring style is about using crisp, lighter-weight basics combined with transitional pieces to bridge the gap between seasons. That most likely means taking a few items and using them consistently for weeks on end. And that means reaching for quality essentials that gel with the rest of your wardrobe. Read on for my take on a few spring must-haves.

#1. GREATS Brand Wilson Sneakers — $49

Classic-looking sneakers from the Brooklyn brand GREATS.

Classic-looking sneakers from the Brooklyn brand GREATS.

There’s a reason these shoes made the top of this list — an awesome pair of white sneakers can be a great workhorse piece all through the spring and summer months, pairing with everything from dark denim and a colorful V-neck tee to more polished get-ups, like a slim blazer and khaki chinos. And these kicks from GREATS (based in Brooklyn) are redefining the standard for what a sneaker can be. They look tremendously well-made, they feature classic lines and relatively minimal branding (aside from the blue ‘G’ on the heel), and the price is enough to make you spit out your morning coffee. Heck, buy those and a pair in light grey (or maybe navy) and you very well might set for spring and summer sneakers. It’s also worth noting the brand has some stellar-looking new releases launching on the site soon. (Note: Use this link here and get $10 off when you buy a pair of GREATS sneakers!).

#2. Bonobos Striped Jersey Crewneck — $98

Yet another piece that Bonobos is doing extremely well, from construction to the slim fit.

Yet another piece Bonobos is doing extremely well, from construction to fit.

Bonobos does an awful lot more than pants well these days — that much becomes apparent by the season. Here, they’ve taken a traditional nautical look — the Breton stripe — and slimmed down the fit, bulked up the neckline and cuffs and added some nice-looking shoulder detailing. The cotton fabric should be nice and soft, ideal for layering over a white OCBD or crewneck T-shirt. Combine this crewneck with another neutral staple (like an olive chino) and those GREATS sneakers above and you’ve got a casual outfit ready for a boat ride and drinks at the marina after (or just a regular day away from the water, your call).

#3. Combatant Gent Khaki Slim Fit Travel Jacket — $70

A warm-weather staple from a relatively new online retailer.

A warm-weather staple from a relatively new online retailer.

Compared to some of the other options on this list, this khaki blazer from Combatant Gent is a steal for your wallet. Combatant Gent has received what seems to be a positive reaction  in terms of quality and fit from the digital menswear community, a bonus given that products with low, low prices can often be poorly made and even more poorly received. This khaki “travel jacket” features large patch pockets and is allegedly made with 100% cotton twill — no mention however, of whether the travel jacket name comes from the fact that it’s made with stretch fabric, a la J. Crew’s Traveler suiting line. Regardless of that, it’s time to take the plunge on Combatant Gent — for the price, this blazer should be a nice spring and summer change of pace over casual OCBD’s (and maybe even white sneakers).

#4. Welcome Stranger Stadium Jacket – $149

The Stadium Jacket from San Francisco's Welcome Stranger.

The Stadium Jacket from San Francisco’s Welcome Stranger.

This piece makes a triumphant return to the blog this week following its inclusion as a Style Pick of the Week last weekend. This lightweight jacket is made in the U.S. with lots of attention to detail by San Francisco boutique Welcome Stranger. The lightweight heather grey cotton-blend gets a lot of things right – bomber-inspired construction, a slim fit and the ability to be dressed up or dressed down. And because it’s a neutral color, it wouldn’t look out of place with pants in nearly every shade imaginable – practically anything besides light grey, unless you’re into the monochromatic look that seems so in vogue nowadays. So it has all that going for it — that price is another thing entirely, however.

#5.  Michael Bastian x UNIQLO Polos 

A washed cotton polo from the Uniqlo x Michael Bastian collection. Jeans by J. Crew (484 fit). Belt by Merona. Desert boots by Clarks. Sunglasses by Tom Ford.

A washed cotton polo from the 2014 Michael Bastian x Uniqlo collection. Jeans by J. Crew (484 fit). Belt by Merona. Desert boots by Clarks. Sunglasses by Tom Ford.

There hasn’t been any official word yet as to whether the famed American menswear designer will be back with a third iteration of his fast-selling collaboration with, appropriately enough, fast-fashion retailer Uniqlo. If last year’s success is any indication though, odds are definitely looking up for another run of well-designed, comfortable and ridiculously affordable polos. Last year’s offerings served up some unique, more fashion-forward designs that some liked and some didn’t, so we’ll see if this year’s collaboration yields a return to more classic styles (think bold, Americana-inspired rugby stripes and ’70’s vibes, perhaps). If they’re priced as last year’s styles were — roughly $29 on-sale — these pieces will likely fly off the shelves in good time.

What’s on your spring wish list? What picks do you like from the list above?

The long way home: Recapping a winter weekend in Michigan

Me (Beau) posing in front, yes, Beaumont Tower on MSU's iconic campus. Overcoat by Kenneth Cole.  Scarf by J. Crew Factory. Glasses by Warby Parker.

Me (Beau) posing in front, yes, Beaumont Tower on MSU’s iconic campus. Overcoat by Kenneth Cole. Scarf by J. Crew Factory. Glasses by Warby Parker.

This past weekend, I had the awesome opportunity to go back home — to my home state of Michigan, to my college “home base” (Michigan State University) and to a great town where I made so many great memories and great friends — East Lansing! Although getting into town was arduous thanks to the weather (a 50-minute flight from Detroit to Lansing was delayed by 4 hours), I eventually made it with my Navali Stowaway Weekender in tow and had more than enough time to hit the town both nights. 

Most of the spread for this past weekend in Michigan. Sweaters and shirts top left, bags top right. Jeans, shoes and socks bottom left. Dopp kit and other accessories on the bottom right.

Most of the spread for this past weekend in Michigan. Sweaters and shirts top left, bags top right. Jeans, shoes and socks bottom left. Dopp kit and other accessories on the bottom right.

I packed pretty heavy on the winter clothes for this particular trip, and with good reason — it was pretty chilly throughout the weekend, just as I suspected it would be. My outfit of choice on Friday ended up being both comfortable and versatile for both the flight and going out in East Lansing later that same night — I paired my Reigning Champ crewneck sweater with my Bonobos blue OCBD (similar option here) and brown Travel Jeans (as seen in the photo below), along with my wingtip boots (a prized pickup from JC Penney now out of stock, unfortunately).  My red J. Crew socks proved a nice complement to the entire outfit, too — and it’s a positive that the ensemble was so comfortable, as I had to hop on a ride with my good friend Matt to get halfway to Lansing from Detroit on Friday after a lengthy delay!

Allegheny Oak Travel Jeans from Bonobos, along with a Reigning Champ crewneck sweater and brown JCP wingtip boots for Friday's flight.

Allegheny Oak Travel Jeans from Bonobos, along with a Reigning Champ crewneck sweater and brown JCP wingtip boots for Friday’s flight.

On Saturday, I paired my extremely warm Todd Snyder cardigan with a rugged dark chambray shirt from GAP (as you can see below). This combination fortunately proved warm and pretty stylish for cheering on Michigan State basketball and hitting up some great bars in East Lansing (any fans of the Peanut Barrel out there?). Checking out MSU’s beautiful campus was also a huge highlight — my Kenneth Cole overcoat (now sold out), J. Crew Factory scarf and Target Merona gloves (similar option here)were worthy and much-needed accessories throughout the trek across East Lansing. My trusty pair of Bonobos dark denim worked great in tandem with the rest of my outfit, and I took a chance by wearing my Billy Reid x K-Swiss brown leather sneakers — probably one of my favorite pairs of shoes. They held up fine in the snow, although wingtip boots might have been a better option. To keep my feet warm, I threw on a pair of J. Crew ribbed stripe socks — the darker blue hues tied the rest of the outfit together nicely.

Saturday's outfit — Dark chambray shirt by GAP, shawl-collar cardigan by Todd Snyder. Not pictured: Bonobos dark slim jeans, Billy Reid x K-Swiss brown leather sneakers.

Saturday’s outfit — Dark chambray shirt by GAP, shawl-collar cardigan by Todd Snyder. Not pictured: Bonobos dark slim jeans, Billy Reid x K-Swiss brown leather sneakers.

For what proved to be a particularly lengthy travel day (more on that below), I kept things simple and wore my white henley from Everlane along with my Bonobos Travel Jeans and wingtip boots for both comfort and polish. Later in the day, I also changed into my charcoal American Apparel crewneck pocket tee. Unfortunately, what should have been a quick flight from Lansing to Detroit was delayed by roughly 4 hours — this, combined with another delay in Detroit, put me home at about 1 a.m. Sunday night! That made work a bit rough the next day. However, the trip was truly great overall — it was so fun to see great, great friends and even that made the lengthy delays much more bearable. As far as packing goes, I was well-prepared for the weather and also able to get around in style. I stayed warm in comfortable thanks to the sweaters and casual shirts in my bag, while my Bonobos jeans are quickly proving to be the most comfortable pants in my rotation — well worth checking out a pair. This trip combined so many great things and really made me appreciate my college experience even more — that’s worth far more than a lengthy plane delay.

Any harrowing travel stories to share? What are you bringing in your bag when you hit the road?