Tag / bridge and burn

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Bridge & Burn Marshall Jacket

The potential for matching jackets AND performance-minded style? Not bad at all.

When inclement weather rolls into town this season, you need to be prepared — and what better place to turn than longtime Style Guide favorite Bridge & Burn, effortlessly  cool and functional gear purveyors of particularly rugged Northwest style? That’s certainly quite the brand descriptor, but it’s a fitting one given that Bridge & Burn is now making your new favorite jacket, the seriously cool and rugged Bridge & Burn Marshall Jacket. It could just be the ideal jacket for a fall weekend, what with its multi-faceted durability and style — would you expect anything less? If you know the  brand (and particularly if you remember my Bridge & Burn Q&A from a few years back!), then you’ll recall that they simply don’t skimp when it comes to fabric, fit or quality — and that’s the case with its stylish Oxford shirts as well as this rugged jacket, one of the best men’s jackets you can grab (and layer up) right now.
Shop Mott & Bow Today!

Now, we’ve talked about the need for a closet stocked with versatile outerwear when the weather starts to act up — that includes items like a classic denim jacket or a stylish moto jacket as well as the more technically savvy Bridge & Burn Marshall Jacket; yet, where does the style aspect come into play? Unlike other overly performance-heavy fall jackets, which often lack some style points, the Bridge & Burn Marshall Jacket simply delivers on all fronts.

SHOP: The Bridge & Burn Marshall Jacket

The rich fall color is a perfect pairing with functional features from Bridge & Burn.

As sold by the fine folks at Huckberry, this is one of the best men’s jackets for fall, all thanks to water and wind-resistant construction (topped off with the excellent Forest color as seen above). Flannel lining and a large hood ensures you’ll stay warm and cozy no matter the situation, while front button-snap hip pockets provide that critical bit of space for your everyday carry essentials. The fact that it’s lined with cotton flannel gives it an added touch of fall-ready style, too — it’s perfect to layer up with your favorite crewneck sweatshirt and slim faded denim, and you can even throw it on over a classic Oxford shirt and tan chinos to head to the office on a breezy commute (just step out with some new leather chukka boots to finish off the look). Of course, when the weekend rolls back around, the Bridge & Burn Marshall Jacket works perfectly to get out of town and hit the trail. Take note — it’s time to layer up.

SHOP: The Bridge & Burn Marshall Jacket
The Best Basics. Summer Ready.

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by Beau H.

Online Shopping Picks: These Are the Best Men’s Jackets for Fall

These are heady times we live in — busy times, too. If you’ve followed along with our Online Shopping Picks series on The Style Guide, you know that we’re all about getting you prepped for rugged fall style. And that continues today, in a big way. Putting together a rugged fall #menswear look is about the details — the big categories and the small ones, too. And in the way of essential men’s style for fall,  outerwear is a pretty big category. So, we’ll get you shopping and thinking today. The best men’s jackets for fall feature durable construction, essential warmth and pleasingly rugged-yet-versatile style — that combination is going to take you a lot of places.

Some of the below picks, like the tough Taylor Stitch Bomber Jacket seen below, can work in both casual and tailored situations (try it with an American-made Oxford and a knit tie). And others — like the Bridge and Burn Thielsen Jacket — fit right in with the rugged climes of fall. Regardless, this list of rugged fall jackets should have you set for the season. For more #menswear than you can shake a stick at, follow me on Twitter or Instagram. Enjoy fall — soon enough, anyways!

#1. Taylor Stitch Albion Jacket — $265 

A rugged and versatile piece that’s ideal for layering.

Yes indeed, ladies and gentlemen … the Taylor Stitch Albion Jacket tops our list, and with good reason. It’s the perfect transitional jacket to wear during early fall and on through November. Made from a custom-developed two-way stretch windshell nylon fabric, the Albion Jacket is a positively versatile layering piece. It’s even lined in fleece and is water-resistant — it’s a stylish fall jacket for layering over a rugged striped henley and teaming with classic dark denim.

#2. Abercrombie and Fitch Shera-Lined Corduroy Jacket — $160

A cozy jacket that evokes classic, timeless fall style.

Abercrombie and Fitch — a Style Guide favorite — continues to come roaring back season after season, and the Sherpa-Lined Curdory Jacket is a prime example of that. It evokes the kind of classic fall jacket that your dad or grandpa might have worn to do yard work, except this number features a slimmed-down fit and just as much warmth — plus added style points. Again, a slim striped henley and suede chukka boots are ideal companions.

#2. Flint and Tinder Stretch Denim Trucker Jacket — $158

Flint and Tinder

This piece could very well be your new favorite denim jacket — agreed? Agreed.

Originally part of our See Now, Buy Now series, the Flint and Tinder Stretch Denim Trucker Jacket should be welcomed to this list with open arms. At least, I think so. Everyone needs a stylish denim jacket in their layering arsenal — the Flint and Tinder Stretch Denim Trucker features a crisp indigo color and the type of easygoing wearability that looks great with slim tan chinos and a white chambray shirt or a slim striped henley.

#3. Bridge and Burn Thielsen Jacket — $238

A fall-ready color and durable cotton construction set this jacket apart.

If you’ve read our Style Guide Q+A with Portland lifestyle brand Bridge and Burn, you know they’re dedicated to making classic, straightforward pieces with a touch of Northwest style influence. And in this case, the Bridge and Burn Thielsen Jacket channels the kind of rugged durability you need this fall, and tosses in a healthy dose of style, too. The hard-wearing cotton outer and quilted liner of the Thielsen Jacket provide protection from the elements, while the rich Acorn color is a fall-ready shade. Who’s ready to hit the pumpkin patch, people?

#4.  BANKS Tombstone Jacket — $130

BANKS Tombstone Jacket

Another warm, classic and durablly made piece of outerwear for the season.

The rugged fall style just keeps coming in spades with the BANKS Tombstone Jacket. A unique brand available via the great folks at Bespoke Post, the Tombstone Jacket channels classic style with a modern edge. Which is to say, the faded blue cotton exterior plays nicely off the golden sherpa collar, while the lined warmer pockets ensure you stay warm even at long, chilly tailgates. So, throw on the Tombstone Jacket and pass me a beer, will ya?

#6. Taylor Stitch Long Haul Jacket in Cone Mills Selvage — $188

Taylor Stitch

A handsome denim jacket that’ll only get better with age.

Another jacket from Taylor Stitch on our list of the best men’s fall jackets? Yes indeed, you bet. The Long Haul Jacket is a much-loved silhouette from the brand, harnessing a slick, slim design with the power of Cone Mills denim. That’s right — Taylor Stitch teamed up with the country’s foremost denim mill on a rugged denim jacket that you can wear now over a chambray shirt and wear later over a stylish crewneck sweater. And that’s just the beginning, I’d wager.

#7. Taylor Stitch Maritime Shirt Jacket — $148

A faded shirt jacket that layers with darn near anything in your closet — a job well-done by Taylor Stitch.

Hey, might as well round out this list with more rugged menswear from Taylor Stitch, yeah? The Maritime Shirt Jacket made an appearance in our #OOTD series earlier this year — specifically when it comes to how to wear a rugged overshirt — and it’s guaranteed to impress. The Maritime Shirt Jacket features a cool sun-bleached finish, sturdy construction and the type of fit that works with slim chinos and wingtip boots or black denim in equal measure.

#8.  Finisterre Petrichor Overshirt — $76.98

A durable, rugged silhouette with the strong fabrication to match.

Why exactly are we included an overshirt on this list of fall’s best jackets? Well, my friends — anything goes when it comes to stylish fall layering, and the construction and style of the Petrichor Overshirt is such that it can serve as both if needed. It’s an affordable stylish chore jacket that doubles as overshirt, and the densely woven cotton and cool khaki color make for a heck of a durable piece — so, sold on the Petrichor Overshirt yet?

Alright, friends — what’s your favorite pick of the above? Will it be the rugged versatility of the sturdy cotton Petrichor Overshirt or the sun-bleached cool of the Maritime Shirt Jacket? Is it perhaps the classically styled BANKS Tombstone Jacket or the rough-and-rugged  Long Haul Jacket? Yes indeed, from sherpa-collar corduroy jackets from Abercrombie and Fitch to a durable cotton number like the Bridge and Burn Thielsen Jacket, I hope you found this list helpful. It’s about finding the right fabrication and the silhouette that works for — because believe it or not, I’m sure once you try one of these rugged fall jackets, you’ll want to wear it as much as you can.

How’d we do with today’s post? What do you think of the above picks? Feel free to drop a note in the comments below, or hit me up on Twitter! 

by Beau H.

Keep Portland Weird! A West Coast Weekend Adventure

Hanging out at TwentySix Cafe in versatile, rugged gear for exploring Portland. My Bridge & Burn Northfork Woodland Jacket, the Taylor Stitch Sashiko Shirt, All-American Washed Jeans from Flint and Tinder and my Grizzly Wheat President Boots from Thursday Boots worked out tremendously!

Before we kick things off in today’s latest travel style feature on The Style Guide, know that we’re not about to dive into a “Portlandia” parody (as outstanding as that show happens to be). No sir, this past weekend gave me the chance to head West — although I’d spent a weekend exploring Los Angeles and even made a trip out to Las Vegas for work last year, I’d never been to the City of Roses. I’ve been hearing great things about its balance of excellent #menswear, standout craft beer, a great culinary scene and of course, stellar live music — in my book, that’s more than enough reason to get out and adventure.


And the my long weekend brought with it the added value of an amazing concert — always a bonus! Yes indeed, seeing excellent synth pop band Future Islands play the renowned Crystal Ballroom was a heck of a treat on Friday night. Although it was quite the long trek to get out there following a long work week in New York, I did my best to pack in style (as you might have seen via my Instagram page). Come along for the journey!

Slim, faded denim, a durable Saddleback duffel bag, trusty James Dean Eyewear sunglasses … all that you need for a weekend out West.

Traveling in style and comfort can be a bit of a challenge — particularly on a long flight. That’s why I reached for my durable, pleasingly faded All-American Washed Jeans from Flint and Tinder. Made from premium cotton denim and finished with just a hint of stretch, my All-American Washed Jeans were a fine pair of denim to go from the airport to go to the hip, quiet and cozy TwentySix Cafe near my Irvington accommodations. And my uniquely detailed Taylor Stitch Sashiko Shirt worked just as well on the plane as it did trekking around Portland, particularly when teamed with the richly crafted Grizzly Wheat President Boot from Thursday Boots. To stay on time through it all, I reached for a brand-new, slim and refined Timex watch — the versatile leather strap proved easily wearable all day long. To shield my eyes from the sun in style, a new pair of James Dean Eyewear JDS100 Sunglasses looked great and proved up to the task. The next time your trip calls for exploring a new city on foot, reach for mobile denim, comfortable-yet-tough boots, a sharp watch and stylish, go-anywhere shirting. 

All the right details for exploring Portland, including a new Timex watch and my rugged Thursday Boots Grizzly Wheat President Boots.

And exploration was certainly the name of the game on Friday leading up to that night’s Future Islands show. Thankfully, my durable, rugged and extremely well-crafted Saddleback Rounded Leather Duffel Bag held up to the challenge of lugging around my favorite travel style essentials as I hopped from grabbing a crucial cold brew to the excellent Bunk Bar Wonder, one of a series of PDX locations offering gourmet sandwiches, excellent craft cocktails and a very solid beer selection. A hint — get the Molě Tator Tots, packed with delicious flavor. It was a great afternoon lead-in to a stop at the richly appointed Tanner Goods Flagship Store and the accompanying craft cocktail/beer bar & patio, The Wayback. This American-made brand has long been a favorite of mine for handsome leather goods, durable outerwear, stylish home decor and terrific attention to detail — it was a treat to finally stop by! So with coffee, menswear and craft beer on lock, that led to the night’s highlight: Future Islands bringing down a packed Crystal Ballroom with a stellar show! It helped that I dressed in comfort and style; I can simply never resist the chance to wear rugged leather boots to a concert, either.

The Baltimore-based synth pop band’s rise to fame has been a long one — they’ve played more than 1,000 shows across the country since 2006, often booking them on their own. And if you’re not familiar, I’d say you’ll recognize them from their 2014 appearance on Letterman playing hit single “Seasons (Waiting on You).” Believe me, frontman Sam Herring is every bit as energetic, passionate and enjoyable in person — I knew that from seeing the band play Panorama 2017 here in NYC! And their return to Portland was an anticipated one, coming as it did off the release of one of this year’s better albums, the emotionally packed “The Far Field.”

With an extensive discography spanning five albums and plenty of crowd favorites, a Future Islands show is full of highs and lows, joy and passion — it’s a sight to behold, from hits like 2017’s “Ran” and 2014’s “A Dream of You and Me” to fan favorites like “Seasons,” of course! And Crystal Ballroom, what with a historic interior and a tremendous craft beer selection — including choice selections brewed in Portland — is simply a quirky, cool, standout venue for a live show. Did it top my trip to Nashville to see Young the Giant and Cold War Kids? It’s tough to say – but Future Islands blew me away yet again. Even dealing with a bit of jet lag, it was still a heck of a way to cap off a big Portland day.

Durable Allen Edmonds boots, a finely crafted Abercrombie cotton shirt and a durable Timex x Red Wing watch — perfect Portland essentials.

So, with Friday night in the books, my Saturday kicked off in style — from the ground up, as it were. For getting around Portland with durability, rugged looks and sharp versatility in mind, my brand-new Allen Edmonds Caen Cap Toe Boots worked extremely well. Of course, I started my day right on time with my Timex x Red Wing Waterbury Watch, but stellar boots were just as critical. Coming from a brand mainly known for stylish men’s dress shoes, these rugged cap toe boots are a welcome addition to the Allen Edmonds line — and what’s more, they worked nicely in tandem with the crisp, easily wearable Flint and Tinder 365 Pants. Cut like a five-pocket pant and made from a blend of cotton and lyrca, my 365 Pants helped me grab a quick coffee at essential Portland stop Blue Star Donuts before kicking off afternoon shopping at Style Guide favorites Bridge & Burn. On the shirting front, I reached for a nice fall go-between — a new Abercrombie & Fitch Herringbone Shirt, courtesy of the brand. I can’t recommend the rugged versatility of Abercrombie & Fitch enough, and this soft-washed cotton shirt was able to withstand a full day out and about in Portland.

I packed a lot into an already busy day, including a stop at the excellent Kiriko Made shop — renowned for indigo textiles, excellent shirting and stunning attention to detail on items as small as pocket squares, Kiriko should certainly be on your shopping list if you get out to Portland.  And just as with my trip to Nashville, I had to hit up a renowned craft beer spot or two. The afternoon started with the Deschutes Brewery Portland location — a craft beer lover’s dream.  Lauded for rich, innovative and hard-to-find beers (at least back in NYC), I can’t recommend the nearly legendary Black Butte Porter or the Inversion IPA enough. It was a nice lead-in to another busy evening — centered, of course, around a trip to bustling sports bar The Independent to catch my beloved Michigan State Spartans take on the Notre Dame Fighting Irish! And for a postgame brew, I headed to 10Barrel Brewing, another Oregon favorite that’s always a treat to sip.

Men's travel style

Heading back home in comfortable Standard Deviation denim, a classic Bridge and Burn tee and my trusty Huckberry Explorer’s Cap.

To kick off my last and final day in style — and with a jolt – I stopped by the Ace Hotel Portland, a hip boutique hotel that’s also a favorite spot in NYC for post-work drinks and small bites. Oh, and the coffee from Stumptown Coffee Roasters? It’s excellent, too. I also made my final day count in terms of #menswear, from my Astorflex Greenflex in Dark Khaki chukka boots to my slim, stylish and well-fitting Standard Deviation denim. Standard Deviation does it right when it comes to stylish denim — the brand’s Two-Part Solution allows you to try out two pairs for 15 days to nail down your perfect fit; when the time comes, you pay the discounted price of $78 per pair. Not bad, ehh? And certainly stylish for exploring Portland and heading to Ecliptic Brewing for a nice brew or two before a long flight back home.

I also dressed in laidback style with a new Bridge & Burn Basic Tee, a slim-fitting number made with a breezy cotton blend. The Heather Wine color  of the Basic Tee also played nicely off my Astorflex Greenflex in Dark Khaki chukka boots. Luckily, my essential Timex x Todd Snyder Military Watch ensured I stayed on time throughout the day.  For navigating a new city, reach for classic suede chukka boots and perhaps some favorite tunes, as I did when I plugged into stylish headphones from the Bespoke Post Vibes Box. With a busy, enjoyable and exciting weekend behind me, it was time all too soon to head hone. I appreciated Portland for its quiet atmosphere, its mix of amazing coffee, great menswear and live music, and the attention to detail in everything from food to craft beer. Is Portland “weird,” per se? It’s different than New York and Brooklyn, and that’s a great thing!

If you’ve got questions on the best things to do in Portland, drop me a note on Twitter. Follow along on Instagram for more men’s travel style tips, and check back tomorrow for a new #OOTD post.

Thanks for reading!

-Beau

by Beau H.

#OOTD: Wear Your New Denim Trucker Jacket This Way for Fall

Now that we’re truly getting into fall — at least, on the calendar — it’s time to break out a rugged denim trucker jacket, I’d wager.  Just as a cotton denim jacket works in the spring and summer, it’s a surprisingly easy-to-wear fall layering essential — as you’ll see today. The right denim trucker jacket is made with quality fabric and the type of construction that’ll break in over time, so it’ll work from September into November when worn properly. And it’s all the better that Flint and Tinder is making the tough denim trucker jacket you need for all your seasonal style scenarios. From a tailgate to a day trip to a brewery tour — gotta love those brewery tours — the deep indigo trucker jacket you see below brings comfort, versatility and style in sapdes.  And I think you’re going to like the way we’ve styled it, from classic suede chukkas all the way through to an investment-worthy watch. Let me know what you think of today’s #OOTD in the comments or over on The Style Guide Facebook page. With no further delay, let’s get ready for fall!

When worn with rich green trousers and a striped shirt, a denim trucker jacket can be a fall layering essential.

The Trucker Jacket: Flint and Tinder Stretch Denim Trucker Jacket, $158 — As seen recently in our See Now, Buy Now series, this Flint and Tinder trucker jacket features a crisp indigo color, comfortable fabric and terrific construction.

The Shirt: Life/After/Denim Academy Shirt in Heather Grey, $138 — Although a bit pricey, this Life/After/Denim shirt features yarn-dyed cotton and a neat, neutral color palette — plus, those stripes are a neat design touch.  I have a feeling you’ll get a lot of wear this season out of the Life/After/Denim Academy Shirt.

The Pants: Bridge and Burn Polk Pants in Deep Forest, $108 –Early fall is a great time to start working dark, rich colors into your wardrobe — the Bridge and Burn Polk Pants are an excellent jumping-off point.

The Boots: Astorflex Greenflex Rough Boots, $134.98 — Want a pair of classic suede chukkas? The well-constructed Astorflex Greenflex Rough Boots feature a sturdy sole, visually interesting texture and a color that nicely offsets the navy striped Life/After/Denim shirt and the deep indigo of the Flint and Tinder trucker jacket.
 
The Socks: Anonymous-ism Tweed Nep Crew Socks, $30— Anoynmous-ism is known for its ridiculously well-made, stylish men’s socks — the sharp navy color of these tweed socks is fall style at its best, with comfort thrown in for good measure.

The Belt: Line of Trade Veg-Tanned Leather Belt in Auburn, $55 ($40 When Signing Up for Bespoke Post) — As we always say at The Style Guide, don’t sleep on stylish accessories  — this durable leather belt is a fall-ready way to, well, hold up your pants in style.

The Watch: Huckberry Lum-Tec B31 Bronze Automatic Watch, $899.99— We told you we’d get to an investment-worthy watch, right? The incredibly durable, striking Huckberry Lum-Tec B31 is that very watch.

The Everyday Carry: Billykirk Small Carryall, $238.98— With its blend of remarkable craftsmanship and eye-catching looks, the Billykirk Small Carryall is a stylish everyday bag for fall weekend day trips or bar crawls.

I hope today’s #OOTD gives you a few ideas when it comes to how to wear a denim trucker jacket this fall.  It’s a classic silhouette made all the better by the fact that Flint and Tinder crafts its Stretch Denim Trucker Jacket with quality and versatility in mind — that makes it the ideal outerwear piece atop the Life/After/Denim Academy Shirt.  And in a deep shade of green, the Bridge and Burn Polk Pants  are a unique way to nod toward the start of fall — you can wear the Polk Pants into early winter, too. If you don’t yet have a pair of rugged leather chukka boots in your closet, grab the Astorflex Greenflex Rough Boots — the tread sole and fall-appropriate color make them a seasonal footwear essential, surely.

As I always say, stylish accessories are key; in that regard, Anoynmous-ism is going to be a terrific bet when it comes to stylish men’s socks, while the Line of Trade Veg-Tanned Leather Belt is a richly crafted belt for daily wear. On the watch front, the Huckberry Lum-Tec B31 is absolutely the ideal watch to complement a tough denim trucker jacket — it’s investment-worthy and made with rugged good looks.  Last but not least — what would your daily carry be without  a stylish everyday bag  like the Billykirk Small Carryall? Hopefully, we accounted for all the men’s style essentials you might need in the season ahead.
Happy shopping, enjoy the season and stay stylish!
 -Beau

by Beau H.

Plugged In: A Chicago Weekend at Lollapalooza 2017

Lollapalooza 2017

Taking in Lollapalooza with my MVMT Watches Aviators, plus my rock-ready Need Supply Co. denim jacket and slim Abercrombie and Fitch denim — finished off with classic Astorflex suede chukkas.

It was under special circumstances that I hopped on an unusual Thursday night plane ride out of NYC to head to Chicago — and no, I didn’t take a wrong turn after happy hour. I hit the road last weekend to head to Lollapalooza 2017 in the Windy City — a truly momentous weekend packed full of highlights, from great #menswear to an amazing Friday headlining set by The Killers (a band I’d seen back in June) and more excellent tunes than you could take in across just two days. It was my second festival in as many weekends after attending the Panorama music festival here in NYC — with Governors Ball 2017 also under my belt this summer, you night say I’ve got it down to a science when it comes to what to wear to a music festival. What exactly did I pack and who did I see? Join me on another men’s travel style post — it should come as no surprise it was an amazing weekend that seamlessly blended my two big passions! Put on your favorite Killers track, and let’s rock.

I packed up my Owen and Fred Voyager Waxed Weekender with trusty essentials, from my Astorflex suede chukka boots to my Huckberry Explorer’s Cap.

The adventure itself really began on Thursday night, as I packed up my stylish weekender bag — namely, the Owen and Fred Voyager Waxed Weekender — with menswear essentials galore. To head from a full day at the office to the airport, I dressed in a mixture of comfort and style, starting with a new pair of Abercrombie and Fitch denim from the brand’s recently revamped line. The mobility, tailored fit and pleasingly faded wash matched nicely with one of my favorite Taylor Stitch shirts, the Sashiko Shirt — the cool detailing and texture makes it a four-season essential, and it’s yet another example of what Taylor Stitch does well. The combo was finished off with even more comfort in the form of my travel-ready Astorflex suede chukkas. There might not be a more versatile pair of three-season shoes than these classic suede chukkas, which can go from the office to the plane easily.

A stylish casual watch from Nautica and my reliable Huckberry Explorer’s Cap rounded out my travel style essentials. And the next time you hit the road, don’t forget to pack men’s grooming essentials — a few pieces from the Oars + Alps Athlete’s Grooming Kit (as seen on this site’s Style Pick of the Week series) helped me keep my skin in top form. What’s more, I even managed to prep for the festival on the music front — I plugged in my surprisingly stylish LSTN Sound Co. headphones from the essential Bespoke Post Vibes Box, and I was ready to go. The bottom line is this: When dealing with a day at work and an evening of travel, dress for comfort, style and mobility (like I did!).

Lollapalooza 2017

Easygoing essentials for a day of music and a day in the sun — particularly a fan of my classic SeaVees Army Issue Sneakers, and they teamed nicely with my tough, versatile Timex x Todd Snyder Military Watch.

My Thursday night arrival had me tired but wired (tired and wired?) going into an amazing, bright and sunny Friday full of live music. To take on Chicago’s heat, I kept things simple and stylish with a slim short-sleeve shirt from Old Navy, plus my laidback and comfortable Bridge and Burn Stringer Dune Shorts — two warm-weather style essentials fit for any trip.  And just as with Panorma, I found my SeaVees sneakers to be effective, comfortable and broken-in enough to fill that crucial music festival style void. And that blend of style comfort from my SeaVees sneakers proved quite effective for bouncing around Lollapalooza’s many, many stages. That meant staying on time was quite critical — as I’ve found on many a music-themed trip, my Timex x Todd Snyder Military Watch on a cotton NATO strap (similar style here) was a durable and stylish pick. I topped it all off with stylish men’s sunglasses — namely, a new favorite pair of sunglasses from Component out of Miami. And what exactly did the day have in store? Plenty — to say the least.

There aren’t many festivals where you’ve got the chance to see everyone from Brooklyn indie rockers Slothrust to classic modern indie pop duo Tegan and Sara to upstart British singer Bishop Briggs within a matter of hours, but Lollapalooza absolutely delivered in that regard — I  can’t say enough about the experience. A vibe-filled, sharp set from Phantogram paved the way for an exciting, anticipation-filled evening — a long-awaited show by The Killers tends to heighten the excitement of a music festival even moreso. Having just seen this remarkable band back in June, I thought I was ready — yet nothing can really compare to the power, energy and joy brought to the stage by Mr. Brandon Flowers and company. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: There’s really nothing that can measure up to seeing songs you’ve known for half your life being played out in person. When delivered by one of my heroes, Brandon Flowers, it was all the more special. (Editor’s note: Mr. Flowers inspired my love for denim jackets and black moto jackets, surely). 

From classic cuts like “Mr. Brightside,” “Read My Mind” and the roaring “For Reasons Unknown” to all-new cuts “The Man” and fan favorites like “When You Were Young,” this is a band that delivers on nearly everything that a fan could ask for. That included a soaring cover of fellow rockers Muse, plus a menacing (and yet wonderful) cover of the Joy Division classic “Shadowplay.” This is, simply put, an incredible band. I mean that sincerely, and it’s nothing short of an absolute joy to witness live. And as it were, I positively can’t wait for The Killers North American tour behind the band’s forthcoming new album, “Wonderful Wonderful” — what a run that should be. It was worth the trip in and of itself, and that’s no joke. Incredibly, I wasn’t quite fully tired out from Friday night — and Saturday promised even more tunes and even more #menswear.

Crisp and effective, rock-n-roll style featuring slim Abercrombie and Fitch Langdon denim and my classic Astorflex suede chukkas.

Although Saturday dawned hot and sunny once again, I went with sharp and simple style — perhaps inspired in part by the style of Brandon Flowers, who frequently favors all-black get-ups. For me, that meant injecting some color and texture on the footwear front with my Astorflex suede chukkas and topping it off with another pair of slim Abercrombie and Fitch Langdon denim in a slightly faded black wash. Perfect for a festival — particularly when teamed with my Knickerbocker Mfg. Co. Pocke Tube Tee. For taking on the day and seeing the vibe-filled, standout rock of The xx later, an all-black uniform certainly felt right — my trusty Timex for J. Crew field watch helped add some texture and visual interest to the look, too.  Once again, I just had to get ready for the day with the stylish and high-quality LSTN Sound Co. headphones from my Bespoke Post Vibes Box.

Saturday itself brought out a terrific mix of live acts, too. Canadian rockers Alvvays — a band that’s been on my list for more than two years now — brought a shimmery, sunny mix of indie rock to the Bud Light Stage in the afternoon. Later in the evening, personal favorites The Head and the Heart delivered just as rousing a performance as they did at Govenors Ball 2017 and on a winter road trip I took to Baltimore to see them play.  And throughout the day, Lollapalooza delivered just as solid of a mix of artists as one might expect — from L.A. rockers Warpaint to the joyous dance grooves of pop duo Sylvan Esso and the unique rhythm and quirky vibes of British rockers alt-J (another favorite of mine). The experience and atmosphere was truly jam-packed and lively — it was as busy a two days as I’ve had at a music festival, particularly navigating multiple stages and trying to stay on time. Again, dressing for a music festival in style proved absolutely critical, and I hope my gear was up to the test. As it were, my all-black get-up fit right in during a powerful, transcendent Saturday night headlining set by British rockers The xx —  another personal favorite and another band that made the entire trip worth it.

 

Travel-ready gear for the flight back — my Need Supply Co. denim jacket and my new Bridge and Burn Basic Tee got the job done on my top half, while my Kit Culture stretch twill pants were suitably travel-ready.

All too soon, it was time to hit the road back to Chicago — my schedule precluded me from staying another day to take in the powerful rock and spectacular live show that is Arcade Fire, but I left Chicago with nothing but happy memories from an incredible weekend of amazing music. And with a stylish weekender bag and men’s grooming essentials from Oars + Alps in tow, I made sure to dress for the road accordingly. I started out once again with my versatile Astorflex suede chukkas  — they’re as comfortable and sustainable a pair of classic chukka boots as you’ll find. They were a sharp complement to my Kit Culture stretch twill pants, a tailored set of chinos that feels like an easy-to-wear pair of sweatpants. When topped off with my Need Supply Co. Denim Jacket in 96 — a retro-inspired, versatile denim jacket — I was more than ready to deal with blasting airport air conditioning. Between the light wash and the quality construction, the denim jacket was a cool topper to a new Bridge and Burn Basic Tee — think an ultra-soft blended T-shirt built with made-in-America craftsmanship. The next time you hit the road, reach for breezy basics, a well-made denim jacket and go-anywhere pieces like suede chukkas. 

With all that travel in the books, I was glad to make it home last night — and it was all the better to get back to Brooklyn knowing I’d had such an amazing, fulfilling trip. Hopping on a flight to a music festival can feel like a long journey at times, but the trip was more than worth it — heck, seeing some of my heroes on the stage on Friday night made the trip in and of itself. I’m also lucky I was able to pack up just the right gear for the weekend — if I can continue to make the trip in years to come, I’ll be looking at a longer trek than just a subway ride … and I know it’ll certainly pay off.

Did you manage to make the trek to Lollapalooza? What did you bring along with you? 

Lastly — thanks for reading!

-Beau

by Beau H.

Read My Mind: Trekking to New Jersey to see The Killers

Exploring Philly’s Rittenhouse Square casual rock style with my Florsheim Forward Lo Lace-ups, slim Mott and Bow denim and my Bridge and Burn Outsiders Tee. I finished off the ensemble with the rugged Timex Waterbury Chronograph Diver & my Component gunmetal sunglasses. Rock on!

This past Sunday was a pretty special one — to say the least. And for once, I’m definitely not talking about how I dressed for Sunday brunch. It was an early, bright and sunny weekend day as I trekked out of NYC — first to Philadelphia, then to nearby Camden (that’s New Jersey) — for the Radio 104.5 Birthday Celebration , headlined by none other than … The Killers. As we all know, we here at The Style Guide can never pass up a brilliant show — and by we, I mean me. Why the quick trip and the multi-state trek? The headlining act says it all — but the one-day mini-festival, much like Governors Ball 2017, was packed with a plethora of other worthwhile, fun and enjoyable acts (from Foster the People to Bleachers). Of course, prime music festival style was in order. Undeniably though, the main attraction was one of the most extraordinary bands of this generation, The Killers. Having seen them at Governors Ball 2016, I thought I was ready for it — does anything really prepare you to hear songs you’ve loved for half your life, though? For the occasion,  I certainly had to take along a few choice #menswear pieces — and my air guitar (… and my air drums). Of course, that journey was preceded by a stylish weekend in Brooklyn, too. So, strike up the band, cue up “A Dustland Fairytale” and let’s hit the road.

Easy-to-wear slip-ons from Blu Kicks, teamed up with my tough Graf Lantz Traveller Bag, the unique Electric California sunglasses, a USA-made Simon Versus tee and headphones from my Bespoke Post Vibes Box.

To prep for my trip while staying productive, I trekked to a favorite Brooklyn haunt on Saturday — the rugged, well-appointed and tranquil Upstate Stock in Williamsburg. From breezy days off to sunny Sunday afternoons to a Fourth of July weekend visit last summer, I can never resist the excellent iced coffee, handsomely designed menswear and crisp home goods on display at one of my favorite shops in the city. For an afternoon 0f blogging — and a mix of comfort and laidback style — I teamed the USA-made Simon Versus Rotterdam T-Shirt  with my stretchy, athleisure-inspired Influencer Stretch Twill Pants from Kit Culture. Seeing as I also took the chinos on a February trip to New Haven to see Young the Giant, it was fitting that I broke them out this weekend. When rolled up, I was able to easily slip on my new, neatly designed Blu Kicks Cali Bear Slip-ons — they personify laidback cool and West Coast vibes, something that can be hard to channel in NYC from time to time. I matched up the ensemble with my equally laidback Electric California Leadbelly Sunglasses, a perfect (and California-centric) complement to the look. As always, my LSTN. Sound Co. Fillmore Headphones from the terrific Bespoke Post Vibes Box helped me prep for Sunday’s festival with both style and excellent audio quality.

Sunday brought with it an early train ride out of the city (and a much-needed stop for a delicious pick-me-up at Rival Bros. Coffee in Philadelphia) before venturing across the Delaware River to the BB&T Pavilion. To haul my everyday carry, I toted along my Graf Lantz Traveller Bag and Owen and Fred Flight Brief for the occasion — per usual, both proved sturdy and sleek. For comfort and style, it was tough to beat my Florsheim Forward Lo Lace-ups. They combined the slick look of a dress shoe with the comfort of sneaker — they were versatile and comfortable for  getting to the train, getting to Philly and jamming out to the extraordinary rock of The Killers! And my well-made Bridge and Burn Outsider Tee combined comfortable fabric with the simplicity of a classic black tee — ideal for a rock show. That one-two punch was nicely accented by slim Mott and Bow denim — always a favorite.  And sharp Component gunmetal sunglasses added a bit of flair to the look, while my rough-and-tumble Timex Waterbury Chronograph Diver stood up to a busy Sunday of great music. For your next mini-festival, bring along similar essentials — a classic black tee, slim denim and leather sneakers are all great places to start. 
Sutro Shoes Inc.

A crisp black tee, classic leather sneakers and slim denim, plus my Tanner Goods Natural Billfold, Bespoke Post Vibes Box headphones  & sharp Component gunmetal sunglasses — all essential for a great day of music.

With a bustling day of live music ahead of me, I hopped across the river in anticipation of a stellar day of live music at the neatly designed BB&T Pavilion. It was a day of firsts — my first time seeing the energetic pop of Foster the People — and “seconds,” as it were (my second time in about a week seeing the ’80s-inflected rock of Bleachers). And with the sun high in the sky and a buzzing crowd building, fun acts like ARIZONA — recent NYC openers for indie pop phenom COIN — got the crowd moving and on their feet. That’s where my Florsheim Forward Lo Lace-ups came in handy, of course. With two festivals under my belt in about a week — including the incredible Governors Ball in NYC — I felt more than prepped for a mind-blowing set from The Killers. Boy, did they deliver.

It felt like a long build-up toward the highlight of the day, for sure. With a prime spot in the third row (a very lucky, unexpected and timely ticket grab), I felt almost too close to this remarkable band, their remarkable energy and the unmatched showmanship & stellar voice of Mr. Brandon Flowers (a true hero of mine — and quite the stylish fella, if we’re keeping score).

Once that band gets on a roll — essentially, right from the instantly recognizable opening notes of “Mr. Brightside” — they simply can’t be stopped. It’s nothing short of pure joy to hear them power through hits and crowd favorites, song after song after son. They’ve got a TON of ’em, from the joyous dance rock groove of “Spaceman” to the driving surge of “For Reasons Unknown,” the Springsteen-esque flair of “Runaways,” the powerful “Read My Mind,” the poignancy of “A Dustland Fairytale,” the sharp groove of “Somebody Told Me”  — and that barely scratches the surface. “Smile Like You Mean It” brought the crowd to its feet, and “All These Things That I’ve Done” drew a wildly enthusiastic response  — at least, from what I could see through my tears of sheer joy! Sunday night also saw the debut of a new track, the Springsteen-inflected “Run For Cover,” a thrilling, driving song the band originally wrote for 2008’s “Day and Age.” It’s a hit in the making, trust me.

I simply can’t say enough about this remarkable band — they’re truly a must-see, and a generational wonder at that. I didn’t want the night to end — and yet, it wrapped up too soon.

A breezy Gant Rugged striped shirt, slim chinos and suede chukkas from Astorflex, accessorized with my Bespoke Post Vibes Box headphones. Now, that’s perfect #MenswearMonday style if I’ve ever seen it.

Florsheim

As always seems to be the case with a busy weekend of live music, time flies by too quickly — that’s equally true whether I’m exploring Brooklyn and checking out a show at Brooklyn Steel or trekking down to Camden and Philadelphia. So, with quick-moving, office-friendly style in mind, I’m dressing to look sharp on this particular Monday (I’m planning on listening to The Killers all day via my Bespoke Post Vibes Box, of course). For work style to beat the heat, I threw on a casual, cool and comfortable GANT Rugger Indigo Oxford Striped Shirt. Your classic Oxford shirt, this is not — it’s better, thanks to the breezy fit and indigo dye. It’s a nice complement to my Johnston and Murphy Slim-Fit Garment-Washed Chinos. Just like my Taylor Stitch Slim Stone Chinos, they’re a nice change of pace from your everyday pair of khaki chinos, and they’ve proved a dressy-yet-versatile move alongside my classic Astorflex Greenflex Suede Chukkas. You might recognize ’em from a recent Style Pick of the Week entry, and I can’t recommend their blend of comfort, sustainability and style enough. When worn with my rugged (yet office-appropriate)  Timex Waterbury Chronograph, I’d wager that’s a winning combo head-to-toe. The next time you dress for the office in the heat, look for breezy shirting, slim chinos and versatile, stylish suede chukkas.

Nautica

To say the least, there’s definitely a lot to be done at my day job on Monday — and yet, I’ll be carried through today (and this week … and maybe the rest of the year?) by happy, joyous memories of the amazing show put on by The Killers. Once — even twice — simply isn’t enough when it comes to seeing this exceptional band. I definitely consider myself lucky to have seen both times, and I’ve got a third show in my sights when they come around. Of course, I’ll have to refresh myself when it comes to how to dress for a rock concert, and I’d advise you do the same. Again, never pass up the chance to see one of your favorite bands — even if it means hopping a train to Philly and a ferry to New Jersey. For now — thanks for reading, come back tomorrow for our next #OOTD entry, and we’ll see you down in front.

Stay stylish!

-Beau

by Beau H.

#OOTD: A New Way to Wear Linen Trousers for Summer

By now, you’ve probably realized one crucial thing: The heat is unequivocally here to stay. So, how do you dress to beat the heat and yet still look great? Especially when considering that changing seasons still necessitate your best menswear? Well, that’s what we’re here to help out with today at The Style Guide.  It starts first with looking at the fabrics you’re wearing — particularly on your bottom half. Breathability and comfort are key — as is a tailored, yet mobile, fit. That’s where linen trousers — or in this case, cotton-linen trousers from Style Guide favorites Bridge and Burn — come in handy. Certainly, they should be on your list of summer style essentials. And the same goes for your top half. While four-season staples like a classic Oxford shirt can still feasibly work in the summer, we’re starting things out with a slim short-sleeve shirt today. Lest we let accessories slip, I think you’ll also appreciate the picks we’ve got on-hand here — you might just find your new favorite watch or an essential summer tote bag. With all that being said, I’m looking forward to this #OOTD, and I hope you are, too. Leave any thoughts in the comments, or tell me what you really think of this #menswear ensemble via Twitter. Happy shopping and stay cool out there!

Linen-blend trousers paired up with a head-turning short-sleeved shirt, crisp loafers and a clean watch. A winning combo!

The Trousers: Bridge and Burn Roark Dune Trousers, $128 — The good folks of Bridge and Burn blend an appreciation of classic menswear with functional fabrics — like these cotton-linen blend trousers, good for breezy Northwest evenings or a sweltering Southern wedding in equal measure.

The Shirt: Outerknown Shibui Short-Sleeve Essential Shirt, $75 — Want a slim short-sleeve shirt that’s comfortable, stylish and sustainable? Look no further than the work being done by surfer-turned-designer Kelly Slater and Outerknown.

The Belt: J. Crew Factory Washed Tan Leather Belt, $24.50 — A versatile, quality belt is a must-have menswear accessory — this one is affordable and sure to see plenty of wear.

The Loafers: Sebago Legacy Penny Loafer in Red Leather, $135 — Want to cool down in a hurry? Accent those linen-blend trousers and slim short-sleeve shirt with head-turning loafers in a classic silhouette and sharp color.

The Socks: Arvin Goods No-show Socks (Three-pack), $22.98 — Make no mistake, we’re still gonna need socks. Stylish no-show socks are especially key in the summer, and Arvin Goods makes some of the best.

Sutro Shoes Inc.

The Watch: Armogan Spirit of St. Louis Chronograph, $225 — On this blog, we certainly love a crisp, durable watch that works for situations both dressy and casual. Such is the case with the Armogan Spirit of St. Louis Chronograph — the perfect watch for a breezy-yet-dressy summer day.

The Sunglasses: Component Havana Sunglasses in Gunmetal, $285 — Ever heard of Component? If not, know that this brand carries with it some serious sunny pedigree — they’re based out of Miami, and they offer up modern takes on classic silhouettes, like these slick gunmetal shades.

The Everyday Carry: W&P Design Cocktail Tote, $127.98 — Now, just because this thing says “cocktail tote” doesn’t mean you can’t make use of it as part of your everyday carry. It’s durable, it’s handsome and it’s an essential for all of your summer needs — from stylish grooming gear to an extra phone charger. Ya dig?

Greats

And now, we’re closing the curtain on another #OOTD entry. Did this post get you thinking about how to wear linen trousers this summer? Hopefully, it’s a unique look for you — starting out with durable linen-blend trousers is a smart move, and complementing those trousers with a slim short-sleeve shirt from Outerknown is only going to help you stay cool. Classic loafers are among those men’s style essentials every guy should own, as is a classic dress watch — in that regard, I’d highly recommend you pick up the Sebago loafers shown here, along with the Armogan Spirit of St. Louis Chronograph. Don’t sleep on your everyday carry, either — Component sunglasses are not to be overlooked, and the W&P Design Cocktail Tote should function quite nicely at either a summer BBQ or a weekend coffee shop outing. Once again, I hope you’re ready to beat the heat in style.

Thanks for reading — see you out there!

-Beau

by Beau H.

#OOTD: How to Wear Your New Favorite Chinos This Spring

Am I the only one, or does it still feel odd to be talking about dressing for spring? Maybe it’s because of the frigid weather that swept through NYC a few weeks ago … and yet, here we with another spring style #OOTD on your favorite #menswear blog. It is your favorite, right? Good answer. At any rate, today’s look is taking a year-round staple — that would be the versatile, stylish slim chino — and bringing it out of the depths of winter and into slightly more temperate spring conditions. The great thing about a go-anywhere pair of chinos is that you can wear them just as easily here in early spring as you can through the summer, fall and winter. It’s a matter of layering up the right way — and subtracting layers as it gets warmer — but today’s outfit should give you the building blocks for transitional spring style. As you’ll see, we’re starting with everyday classics like your go-to Oxford shirt and a tough utility jacket, and we’re finishing the look off with a refined leather watch and … well, I don’t want to give too much away. You can view the full outfit below, and I’d suggest you follow me on Twitter for more random (but useful!) style content each and every day.

Greats

Finisterre

Pairing slim chinos with a military-inspired jacket and other excellent everyday staples.

The Chinos: Finisterre Coverack Chinos, $74.98 — At first glance, these chinos might look a bit different than pairs you’re used to — that’s because they’re coming from a brand that makes gear both nautical-inspired and ready for transitional weather. With a classic-yet-tailored straight leg and peached fabric, the Coverack Chino  is sharp and easygoing.

The Jacket: Bridge and Burn Northfork Woodland Jacket, $198 — So, we’re pairing dark khaki chinos with an olive jacket. That puts this look in the same color family, but don’t be afraid to try it out every now and again — especially if it involves the durable, sharp Woodland Jacket seen here.

The Shirt: Grayers Jaspe Double Cloth Shirt, $98 — Need I say more here? A classic Oxford, especially one like the Grayers Jaspe Double Cloth Shirt, nicely offsets the dark khaki and olive tones of this outfit.

The Boots: Beckett Simonon Laval Suede Chukka Boots in Chestnut,$199 — In terms of underrated footwear brands, Beckett Simonon has gotta be up there. Good news is, you can pre-order these handsome, water-resistant suede chukka boots and wear them whenever it gets wet outside.

The Belt: Abercrombie & Fitch Woven Leather Belt, $44 — From highlights like the Abercrombie & Fitch Chamois Shirt to small — but well-made — accessories, this is a brand getting things right for guys like you and me … so, buy this casual belt!

The Watch: Jack Mason Aviator Chronograph, $275 — If there’s one watch brand you might not know — but need to know — it’s Jack Mason.  The brand is making well-designed, tough-yet-refined watches, and the Aviator Chronograph is among them.

The Everyday Carry: This Is Ground Leatherback Writer 3, $84.98 — Just when you thought you had your everyday carry all sorted out, along comes the crisply designed Leatherback Writer 3, with plenty of space for your daily essentials.

The Umbrella: Blunt Umbrellas Classic Umbrella, $64.98 — Spring rain is certainly in the forecast, and it’ll definitely pay off to have a functional, subtly stylish umbrella with you when it rolls through.

Frank & Oak

If even the above #OOTD didn’t quite get you in the spring spirit, rest assured … we’ll get there. And with easy-to-wear, versatile pants like the Finisterre Coverack Chinos in your rotation, things are only going to get better (and more stylish) in the season ahead. It’s crucial to realize you can wear the Coverack Chinos with ease alongside other four-season essentials, like the Grayers Jaspe Double Cloth Shirt. And when you layer up with a rugged, durable piece of outerwear like the Bridge and Burn utility jacket shown above, your goal of meeting transitional weather in style is, well, accomplished. However, figuring out the main part of your outfit leaves little room to slack off, lest we forget. Grab a tough-yet-stylish watch like the Aviator Chronograph and round out that everyday carry with a handy piece like the Leatherback Writer 3 — all good suggestions, agreed? Sure hope so.

If you’ve got any questions or suggestions on this ensemble, drop me a line on Facebook or chime in via the comments — good luck getting ready for spring!

-Beau

Greats

by Beau H.

Online Shopping Picks: The Best Spring Jackets to Buy This Season

Now that we’re flying through March and closing quickly on April, it’s high time to talk about the best spring jackets to buy this season — are ya with me? It’s always a relevant topic as all of us battle showers and blustery winds, plus the occasional spring road trip. So, what type of jacket to buy for those various pursuits? Well, the good news is there are plenty of excellent styles to pick up for all of us #menswear lovers — from a stylish denim jacket to an investment-worthy moto jacket, we’ve got ’em all covered. The key here is looking for a piece that exudes casual-but-crisp and versatile style — so, it’s kind of like shopping for a stylish, slim topcoat. After all, the best spring jackets can be layered up with everything from a marled henley to a slim Oxford, a knit tie and your favorite chinos. I’d wager you’re going to want to pick up more than a few of the below jackets — with that in mind, we’ve looked for a combination of affordability, quality and great looks. So, check out the latest Online Shopping Picks entry, fill up your shopping cart and join me on Twitter to keep the discussion going.

Greats

#1. Levi’s Trucker Jacket — $70

It’s tough to find a spring jacket more classic — and perhaps iconic — than this one.

We’re kicking off this men’s style roundup with a look at perhaps the most essential piece of outerwear in your closet this spring – the trusty denim jacket. Particularly when made by an iconic brand like Levi’s, the denim jacket combines casual cool with functionality. Layer it up over your favorite cotton plaid shirt with slim chinos in place of a blazer, use it as a casual jacket for weekend road trips, and give it a shot over a printed shirt and olive cargo pants. Don’t be afraid to try a lighter-to-medium wash like the one shown – team that bad boy with slim grey denim for rock-inspired style, too.

#2. Taylor Stitch Moto Jacket — $1,075

Taylor Stitch Moto Jacket

Quite possibly the best leather jacket on the market right now — hands-down.

Jacket No. 2 comes to us via the fine folks at Taylor Stitch … boy, it is something else. Now, before you send me a bewildered email calling out the investment-level price tag, bear with me. There might not be a better, more versatile or more durable leather jacket on the market. Based off a classic café racer design, you might recognize the same silhouette (the Taylor Stitch Whiskey Moto Jacket) from a past entry on this site – however, we’re sticking with the slick Black Moto Jacket for spring style that’s at once sharp and effective. The weight and construction mean you can wear it with everything from a crewneck tee to a short-sleeve chambray shirt and even an Oxford and knit tie. Pick up the Black Moto Jacket ASAP and let me know what you think.

NOV CAMPAIGN: Photo of black boots with logo (no border)

#3. Bridge and Burn Northfork Woodland Jacket — $198

A combination of utilitarian function, toughness and great looks.

While a stylish leather jacket or a rugged denim jacket are always effective #menswear moves, there’s something to be said for reaching for a spring jacket with functionality top of mind. That’s what you get with the Northfork Woodland Jacket in a classic shade of olive green. The lightweight cotton makes it ideal for layering on chilly spring nights, and the plethora of pockets — say that five times fast — gives you plenty of space for your everyday carry on spring weekend adventures. Match this guy up with suede Chelsea boots and perhaps a pair of the best light wash denim for spring the next time you head to your local watering hole – trust me.

#4. Abercrombie & Fitch Bonded Mac Jacket — $99

A versatile overcoat that’s at once functional and stylish.

As we’ve written about often here at The Style Guide, Abercrombie & Fitch consistently continues to up it men’s style game. From surprisingly hard-wearing outerwear like this Bonded Mac Jacket to vintage-inspired layering pieces like the Abercrombie & Fitch Wool Shirt, each piece is injected with DNA from the brand’s illustrious past – yet it all feels very modern. This waterproof jacket gives you both a tailored, slim silhouette – ideal for wearing over a navy suit on weekdays – and go-anywhere versatility (equally perfect for matching up with slim sweatpants and sharp leather sneakers on weekend coffee runs).

#5. Iron and Resin Academy Bomber — $149.98

Iron & Resin

A sturdy bomber jacket — just the style you need this season.

If there’s one silhouette that’s stuck around the menswear world with no signs of stopping, it’s the bomber jacket. And if there’s one brand this spring that’s taking a rather unique approach to the style staple, it’s Iron and Resin. Known for its road-ready moto gear, the brand is offering the crisply designed Academy Bomber in a versatile colorway just in time for spring – bingo. Rock this one with navy chinos and brown leather loafers atop a classic chambray shirt for a mix of high-low style, and match it up with a marled short-sleeve henley and rugged dark blue denim for a little bit o’ Saturday night cool.

Frank & Oak

Honorable Mention: K-Way Claude Laminated Solid Jacket — $59.98

Nothing too fancy — just a basic, functional and subtly stylish windbreaker.

For all this talk of the benefits of owning a stylish moto jacket or a versatile bomber jacket, there are just some times when you need to stay dry in the rain and get from point A to point B. That’s where the K-Way Claude Laminated Solid Jacket enters the equation. It plays off the brand’s original mission – outfitting Frenchmen in the rain – and it does so at a great price. The Claude Jacket is effective and head-turning in its own way – it’s perfect for tossing on for a bike ride or an outdoor hike, then packing into, say, a heritage-quality leather weekender on spring road trips.

Now, am I encouraging you to go out and buy each and every one of these jackets? Maybe. Budget permitting. But in all seriousness, finding the right spring jacket boils down to your lifestyle – if you suit up frequently and need to fight the rain, a bonded mac jacket is going to be the way to go. If casual, crisp style is your thing, snag the Iron and Resin Academy Bomber. If you move quickly from place to place and want something simple and stylish, pick up the K-Way Claude Laminated Solid Jacket. And if you want a piece of outerwear that really can do it all, I’d highly recommend grabbing the Levi’s Trucker Jacket or the Taylor Stitch Moto Jacket – especially the Moto Jacket. I guarantee you certainly won’t be disappointed once you get past the price. Let’s not forget the benefits of owning a stylish utility jacket such as the one shown from our friends at Bridge and Burn. With all that being said, I hope you’re as excited to dress for spring in style as I am – let’s get out there and get to it!

Thanks for reading and stay stylish,

-Beau

by Beau H.

Style Q+A: Bridge and Burn

First of all, welcome back to another entry in our ongoing Style Q+A series.  From purveyors of rugged goods like NYC’s Rivay  to the masterminds at Tread for Men Grooming, I hope you’ve enjoyed following along.  And as always seems to be the case, we’re giving you what I think is another great entry worth your time today (and as an aside, it contains perhaps my favorite quote from our Style Q+A series — see if you can spot it). If you peruse the pages of this site — from pieces like how to wear a bomber jacket  to the best men’s denim shirts to buy now, you’ll surely recognize the brand featured here. Yes, today we’re talking about Bridge & Burn, a brand with a heck of a backstory and roots that extend all the way out to Oregon more than a decade ago. With a computer science background and experience starting and running two different brands — each of which  have lent unique qualities to the stylish, functional and timeless aesthetic of Bridge & Burn — founder Erik Prowell is just the guy you want to see if you need to upgrade your outerwear or pick up a heck of a versatile shirt (or learn about the Pacific Northwest, for that matter). From simple-yet-soft graphic tees to refined chinos  and hard-wearing jackets, you’ve got yourself a winning look any time you throw on the brand’s gear. In fact, Bridge & Burn’s recent collaboration with Kiriko is equally stunning, featuring a mix of chinos, overshirts and engineer stripe shirts done up with beautiful patterns and incredible fabrics — in short, amplifying a lot of the great work you see from Bridge and Burn on a daily basis. With all that being said, they’re a brand worth knowing if you value quality construction, well-executed details and timeless wearability. It’s been a treat to learn more about Bridge & Burn and experience their high-quality goods while meeting the team behind the brand across these past few months. With that being said, I hope you’ll enjoy learning more, too. Take it away, Erik!

The original Bridge & Burn graphic.

The original Bridge & Burn graphic.

The Style Guide: Tell me about the start of the Bridge & Burn brand?
 
Erik Prowell: To be honest, I really didn’t know what I was doing when I started Bridge & Burn. I studied Computer Science in college and worked as a software developer for a few years. My friend and I started making graphic tees for fun and it snowballed into a pretty decent business where we were selling to over 200 stores nationally including Nordstrom and Urban Outfitters. Through that business, I started going to trade shows and was exposed to the wide world of apparel. At the shows, I’d see all these pieces that had great silhouettes but always seemed over-designed. When I started my goal was to make clean, classic pieces that I wanted to wear.
The name Bridge & Burn was inspired by the first t-shirt I ever designed.
It was a burning match under a bridge — because sometimes you have to burn the bridge to past expectations in order to follow your passions into an unknown future.  
A look at the Bridge & Burn x Kiriko collaboration -- read on for more.

A look at the Bridge & Burn x Kiriko collaboration — read on for more.

TSG: The Northwest seems to have played a big role in the brand’s evolution and design — tell me a bit more about that approach?
EP: The Pacific Northwest is known for its quality of life. It’s not about excess. It’s not about the next big thing. It’s about knowing what is good and how to enjoy all that is good to the fullest. I grew up in Oregon, and I chose to start Bridge & Burn in Portland because I love this city. It’s small, it has character, and is full of inspiring, creative people. Our location can be challenging, as most of the apparel world is centered in New York and Los Angeles. It’s more difficult to make connections and I am forced to travel quite a bit. That said, our origin naturally differentiates the brand and gives us unique character. Our designs come from a different point of view and the landscape inspires every aspect of our designs from the colors we choose to each garment’s simple functionality.
TSG: What’s one essential every guy should have in his wardrobe? 
EP: Every guy should have good socks and a great jacket (Editor’s note: Check out American Trench socks in particular, and read our piece on how to wear a bomber jacket for a Bridge and Burn take on the style).
Frank & Oak
TSG: As interest in men’s style specifically has increased, has that benefited the brand?
EP: Definitely. Our approachable designs and moderate price point makes it easy for guys to ease in to the world of fashion. And for those who are already there, we offer new fits and fabrics each season to keep them on trend with new ways to express their own personal sense of style.
TSG: Any exciting upcoming new product launches readers should know about? 
EP: We just launched our most ambitious apparel collaboration ever, with fellow Portland retailer, Kiriko. Bridge & Burn x Kiriko is a limited capsule collection for men & women. The aesthetic was inspired by classic American workwear fused with Japanese minimalism and heritage textiles. The designs are classic Bridge & Burn with a modern japanese twist. For more on the collaboration and the incredible Japanese fabrics we sourced with Kiriko, check out our blog post.
So, there you have it — beautiful fabrication, classic designs and a timeless approach to style. Follow Bridge & Burn on Twitter and Instagram for more — and get shopping!