Tag / classic style

by Beau H.

Seasonal style: A September weekend in New York City

Editor’s note: Click through this link to read more personal style posts.

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From the office to a Central Park concert. Chambray shirt by Old Navy. Garment-dyed chinos by Dockers. Leather chukka boots by Beckett Simonon. Runaway Aviators by MVMT Watches. Weekender Fairfield Watch by Timex. Slim Mailbag by Satchel & Page.

 

It’s hard to believe that September is very nearly in the books — and of course, we’re now officially into fall. And coincidentally, that brought with an ever-so-slight change in seasons this past weekend at The Style Guide HQ and elsewhere. While I’ve appreciated the chance to travel so much these past few months — from a Michigan wedding to a Labor Day trip to Asbury Park — the slight shift toward fall made me glad to be in New York City this past weekend; it wasn’t quite any regular weekend though, as it kicked off with a stellar concert by the amazing indie pop band Lucius, and rolled into beautiful weather and the chance to explore Brooklyn.  Although I left my trusty Owen & Fred weekender bag behind, I still met the past few days with quality #menswear top of mind.

The weekend kicked off in rather unique fashion — although I headed into the office to cap off a busy week in fashion PR, I had to dress in versatile style. Of course, that goes without saying — but as I trekked from the office up to Central Park thereafter for a stellar Lucius concert via the Central Park SummerStage series, it was particularly important. I hauled my gear in my trusty Satchel & Page Slim Mailbag — handy for getting to and from the office. I also reached for a slim-fitting, textured Old Navy chambray shirt — it was the ideal weight for temperatures that were quite hot, but not sweltering (like the weather during my summer Las Vegas trip).  A chambray shirt is a great four-season essential, especially at a very agreeable price — and it teamed nicely with my Dockers garment-dyed chinos for an upgraded casual Friday look. This particular pair of Dockers chinos fit slim and are made of substantial, durable (yet breathable) fabric — again, a great four-season essential. And on the footwear front, I stuck with stylish leather chukka boots from Beckett Simonon — much like the slim chambray shirt, they’re the rare pair of footwear that can go from the office to a concert in one move. Although the brand has dress shoes for sale right now, I’d keep an eye out for future releases — these chukkas are comfortable, super and unique, thanks to the three-eye laces and sleek silhouette. I accented those essentials with another reliable casual accessory — my Timex Weekender Fairfield ; it’s a crisp, classic and subtle timepiece that moved from office to concert just as easily thanks to the slate green NATO strap.  And what a show it was!

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An otherworldly performance from Lucius — and a privilege to be so close to the stage.

Lucius is certainly one of my favorite bands — the melodic five-piece always puts on a stellar show. I was fortunate enough to be able to travel upstate earlier this summer to see them in at the rustic Daryl’s House Club in Pawling, and this time around, the show was certainly just as thrilling. Having the chance to get very close to the stage certainly made it all the more poignant – Lucius excels when they connect with a crowd. Led by the lovely Jess Wolfe and Holly Laessig, nearly every song is a sight to behold — their voices just play that well off each other. It’s a show of their dedication that they work so well together — from the moment they kicked off the show with “Go Home,” the magic really never stopped. They’re a group with great variety in their setlist — you get the feeling that they could play either “Wildewoman,” their 2013 debut, or “Good Grief,” this year’s sophomore album, in its entirety and fans would enjoy it just as much. An encore even brought out the legendary Jackson Browne, who joined Holly and Jess on a version of “Willin’,” an unexpected and welcome surprise! The rest of the show was just as much of a treat for fans. From carefully composed tracks like the beautifully sung “Dusty Trails” and “How Loud Your Heart Gets,” to the jaunty “Almost Makes Me Wish for Rain” and brand-new track “Pulling Teeth,” (which brought Holly and Jess into the crowd), Lucius never missed a note.  The fact that they can transition from an upbeat sing-along like “Born Again Teen” to the lilting, haunting melody of “Gone Insane” within the same show is a testament to their versatility and skill — seriously, support this band if ever they tour near you! I can’t recommend them enough — and with a packed crowd on hand, I’m glad I had those durable Beckett Simonon chukkas to help my feet stay comfortable through the concert; all that jockeying for position (not a mosh pit, but still) lent itself to plenty of time on my feet.

Rugged essentials for a slight transition to fall. Flint Overshirt and Flat Wool Cap by Bridge & Burn. Kramer Sneakers by UGG for Men. Waterbury Chrono from the Timex x Red Wing Heritage collab. Brass bottle opener by Owen & Fred.

Rugged essentials for a slight transition to fall. Flint Overshirt and Flat Wool Cap by Bridge & Burn. Kramer Sneakers by UGG for Men. Waterbury Chrono from the Timex x Red Wing Heritage collab. Brass bottle opener by Owen & Fred.

Again, it was a truly thrilling show that kicked off a stellar weekend — despite a terrible home loss by my beloved Michigan State Spartans to Wisconsin. Admittedly, that put a damper on an otherwise beautiful Saturday that brought with it exciting freelance writing work — more details on that soon — and some exploration of Prospect Park, to boot. As the weather finally felt a  bit more fall-like (especially with a cool breeze), I was able to break out the rugged, well-crafted Flint Overshirt from Bridge and Burn. The overshirt is substantial but not too heavy, dyed with rich indigo and lined in soft plaid flannel. It’s just about everything you could ask for in a rugged fall overshirt, and with a slimmer fit than bulky, workwear-style overshirts of years past, it’s a decidedly modern style upgrade.

Huckberry
Although it would pair up nicely with a slim henley, I styled it with a lightweight Richer Poorer pocket tee – it’s a soft, slim-fitting basic that every guy should have in his wardrobe for transitional layering. That simple get-up was complemented with sturdy selvedge denim from Raleigh Denim Workshop. Featuring a tapered cut through the thigh and a slim-straight fit from the knee down, they fit the way sturdy denim should fit – and so far, they’ve broken in quite nicely. To cap off my Saturday look, I had to reach for my ever-present Frameri glasses, plus the versatile Kramer leather sneaker from UGG For Men. With the cut of a chukka boot plus a nice rich color, they broke up the deep blue hues of the outfit nicely – and they fit right in with the rugged Red Wing leather on my Waterbury Chrono (another essential that plays nicely off the more substantial textures of early fall).

Exploring Prospect Park on an ideal September weekend. Flint Overshirt and Flat Wool Cap by Bridge & Burn. Heather Grey Pocket Tee by Richer Poorer. Glasses by Frameri. Waterbury Chrono from the Timex x Red Wing collab.

Exploring Prospect Park on an ideal September weekend. Flint Overshirt and Flat Wool Cap by Bridge & Burn. Heather Grey Pocket Tee by Richer Poorer. Glasses by Frameri. Waterbury Chrono from the Timex x Red Wing collab.

 

When it comes down to accessories, I also love a great hat – keep in mind, we’re not talking an athletic logo ballcap, but a subtle, simple wool cap (also from Bridge & Burn). If you’re into hats and want one that eschews the younger look of a logo ballcap, this one is the way to go. That ensemble made it easy to head to Prospect Park for some exploration and time spent in the sun. It’s one of my favorite areas in Brooklyn, with wooded pathways and access to neat areas nearby (like the excellent Midwood Flats, a craft beer haven with nice gourmet burgers and sandwiches). It’s also an area that’s quickly becoming more popular, with plenty of development nearby – yet, the park hasn’t lost its charm.

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Casual Sunday style for a trip to Milk & Honey in Brooklyn. Denim jacket by American Apparel. Slim short-sleeve henley by Old Navy. Slim Mercer Denim by Mott & Bow. Sunglasses & brown leather watch by MVMT Watches. Leather chukka boots by Beckett Simonon. Blue weekender bag by Sword & Plough.

I took the opportunity on Sunday to enjoy some excellent weather around Brooklyn – no overshirt needed this time, although I did accessorize with a tough denim jacket. The pleasant weather meant it was the ideal chance to break out a slim short-sleeve Old Navy henley — while it’s still warm enough. If you want to upgrade your basics wardrobe with pieces that fit trim and won’t break the bank, definitely peruse the digital pages of Old Navy. Although we’re past Labor Day, I’ve found light tan or natural denim, like the trusty Mott & Bow Slim Mercer, nods toward white jeans without going too far down that path — the Mercer was a nice change of pace alongside crisp Beckett Simonon chukkas. The ensemble was complemented nicely by some patterned Richer Poorer socks — a pair or two from the brand is another purchase worth making if you need a sock upgrade. Easygoing accessories worked with this look, too. I’d definitely recommend taking a look at new sunglasses –like the Runaway Aviator – being produced by MVMT Watches. Of course, the excellent brown leather & rose gold watch seen here from the brand is also worth your time – pun intended. Each piece made for a laidback #menswear look fit in as I grabbed a delicious coffee at another perennial Brooklyn favorite, Milk and Honey. With a relaxed vibe, rustic wooden tables and a top-notch selection of pastries and brunch favorites, it’s worth a walk through the Ditmas Park neighborhood to get there.

It’s the small pleasures like a delicious coffee or a nice walk that can sometimes get lost in the bustle of New York City – so with that in mind, I was glad I took the opportunity to get out and explore this weekend in Brooklyn. It never hurts to start off your Friday night with a stellar show by Lucius, either! I’ll be counting the days until the band returns to my neck of the woods, and I’ll (hopefully) be dressing in style in the meantime.

If you have style questions of your own, hit me up on Twitter – or follow along on Instagram for daily #menswear inspiration. For now, it’s back to work — look for a special Style Q&A coming up on Wednesday, and circle back tomorrow for a look at a fall style #OOTD. Get it? Got it? Good.

Until next time,

-Beau

by Beau H.

#OOTD: How to Dress for the 2016 Olympics

Editor’s note: You’ve surely seen this hashtag lots of different places, including on Instagram. But how does that carry over to real life? The #OOTD will take one great item and put together a versatile, stylish outfit around it. Look for past features here.

OK, so the title of this post isn’t 100 percent accurate — if you’re really competing in the Olympics, you’re probably not wearing the below ensemble. If you’re watching them, however — here we are. They only come up once every four years, so it’s likely that dressing to watch the 2016 Olympics might not have crossed your mind until now. But, like heading out to a warm-weather bar crawl or grabbing Sunday brunch, it’s a scenario that’s an opportunity to look your best when others might not be all that focused on doing so. It’s also a time that can be patriotic and pretty fun — who doesn’t love the Olympics, right? So that’s what this #OOTD is tackling — assuming you’re in a warm-weather area and possibly getting out and trying to recreate some athletic feats of your own in a game of backyard volleyball. With that in mind, this outfit is part sporty, part stylish and filled with a few atypical style upgrades. Those include an upgraded graphic tee and some crisp, classic sneakers — but you can see the full look below. For more daily style inspiration, check out yours truly on Instagram and follow along with my #menswear Twitter.

An ensemble that's sport-inspired yet not packed with athletic gear, finished off with classic footwear and shades.

An ensemble that’s sport-inspired yet not packed with athletic gear, finished off with classic footwear and shades.

The T-Shirt: Todd Snyder Miami Capsule T-shirt, $68 — While you can definitely go with a classic, Olympics-inspired graphic tee, this tee is premium, slim-fitting and still sporty while remaining wearable for other occasions.

The Shorts: Mack Weldon Ace Short, $65 — A pair of shorts that works for both sporty backyard activities and lounging around in style can be tough to find; however, this pair has a more tailored look than one would expect, and still performs well.

The Sneakers: SeaVees Hermosa Plimsoll Standard, $78 — Highly affordable, highly wearable and able to stylishly offset the brighter blue shorts. An American classic.

The Socks: Sock Genius Villa Park Stripe No-show Sock, $10 — If you caught the recent Style Pick of the Week feature on Sock Genius, you know that these no-show socks are durable, breathable and comfortable — that makes ’em  a winner.

The Watch: Stuhrling Aquadiver Manta Ray Watch, $ — You need a durable casual watch in your arsenal for a variety of reasons (particularly if you’re playing some Olympic-inspired backyard games), and the Stuhrling Aquadiver Manta Ray is a personal favorite that’s held up very well over time.

The Briefs: Flint & Tinder Heritage Boxer Briefs, $28 — Although they’re not pictured above, you can’t forget made-in-America boxer briefs that feature a custom woven waistband and comfortable fabric.

The Hat: Huckberry Explorer’s Cap, $39.98 —  Swapping out your athletic logo ballcap for a more subtle, refined hat is a solid style upgrade that makes a difference — this is the perfect cap to wear for the occasion (note the blue-and-white color) and it can even dress down a classic polo and chino shorts.

The Sunglasses: Randolph Engineering Crew Chief Sunglasses in Gunmetal, $158.98 — To root on America, there’s no better pick than sunglasses that are, well, made right in America. These are durable, premium and wearable with your best suit, too.

The Must-Have: Owen & Fred NFL Leather Coasters, $29.98 — Whether you’re enjoying a cold brew or a plain lemonade, some stylish leather coasters are a nice accessory to have, particularly if you’re hosting.

While you can always go full-on patriotic and rock an official USA jersey (soccer jerseys seem to be a popular and relatively refined pick), working with the pieces in this #OOTD provides you with versatility the rest of the summer and beyond. A subtle graphic tee is a more premium pick than a plan tee, and French terry shorts that fit trim and eschew an athletic logo are a great pick, too. Plus, an upgrade ballcap is a solid style move, and a durable rubber-strap watch should have you set for more outdoor activities beyond the Olympics. Have other #OOTD suggestions or style questions? Head over to The Style Guide Facebook page for more #menswear.

How are you planning on dressing for the Olympics? Leave it all in the comments below!
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by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Buck Mason Short-Sleeve Chambray Shirt

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.

Savor the last weeks of summer with a chambray shirt that can tackle anything. Flowing locks and well-kept beard not included.

Savor the last weeks of summer with a chambray shirt that can tackle anything. Flowing locks and well-kept beard not included. Photo courtesy of Buck Mason

So you’ve got your slim chinos and your classic white sneakers, but you don’t quite have a shirt to wear with ’em — or do you? The Buck Mason Short-Sleeve Chambray Shirt, my friends, is that shirt — and if that’s not the one, I’d suggest the Buck Mason Oxford. But as to the Short-Sleeve Chambray Shirt: It fits in quite well with the brand’s line of durable, essential basics, which run the course from crisp blue denim to perfectly washed slub tees. And it fits in very well with the sort of menswear you should be looking to rock to finish out summer. We’re talking pieces that can handle a beach walk or a day by the pool, and then drinks out on the town. And we’re talking just as much about pieces that can be fun to wear. If you’re on the hunt for a unique alternative to a classic summer polo or a slim pocket T-shirt, the short-sleeve chambray shirt is the way to go — as  a matter of fact, you can rock the style at least five different ways (wink, wink). The light wash is casual, the workwear-inspired front pockets are a nice visual touch, and the styling potential is certainly tough to beat. Yes indeed, the Buck Mason Short-Sleeve Chambray Shirt can be worn with everything from a pair of stylish swim trunks and slip-on sneakers on Saturday to linen trousers on a casual Friday — no jacket required. And with Buck Mason, you’re getting every bit you pay for — and then some.

Subtle details like front-button chest pockets switch things up from the standard navy polo.

Subtle details like front-button chest pockets and fish eye buttons switch things up from the standard navy polo.

The brand’s story began with a conscious decision to return to American manufacturing, and that commitment to quality and effortless style shines through here. While “heritage style” can sometimes have negative connotations (as seemed to be the case after the trend blew up in the mid-2000s), there’s nothing overly costume-y or dated about a very well-fitting, very well-made short-sleeve chambray shirt. Critically, this shirt is made with a lightweight indigo-dyed chambray — that means it’s breathable and moves easier than heavier shirts cut for fall or winter. Another big benefit? It’s made in America, so it’s right in your wheelhouse if you like to know where your #menswear comes from. And although this particular Buck Mason chambray shirt has short sleeves, know that you can still team it up with, say, a lightweight cotton sweater after a day on the water — it’s even better for layering in that regard. But the benefits don’t stop there — it’s got a bit of an edge to it, to the point where it wouldn’t look out of place worn with an iconic jean like the Levi’s 505C at a rock concert. The tricky part is going to be keeping this shirt in your closet once fall and winter really hit — so if you’re blessed enough to live near Buck Mason’s Los Angeles home base, do us all a favor and continue to rock it year-round.

Click here to get the Buck Mason Short-Sleeve Chambray Shirt.

Do you own any Buck Mason gear? How would you style this chambray shirt? Weigh in at The Style Guide!

by Beau H.

Pure Michigan: A weekend back in the Mitten

Editor’s note: Click here for more posts related to traveling in style.

Exploring Grand Rapids in style on a summer Friday. Plaid Poplin Shirt by JACHS NY. Slim Ludlow Denim by Mott & Bow. Freamon Sneakers by UGG. Flat Wool Cap by Bridge & Burn. Waterbury Chrono from the Timex x Red Wing collab. Glasses by Warby Parker.

Exploring Grand Rapids in style on a summer Friday night. Plaid Poplin Shirt by JACHS NY. Slim Ludlow Denim by Mott & Bow. Freamon Sneakers by UGG. Flat Wool Cap by Bridge & Burn. Waterbury Chrono from the Timex x Red Wing collab. Glasses by Warby Parker.

Although it seems like I was just in Michigan for a summer wedding yesterday, it’s actually been … well, only about two weeks. And yet, this past Friday, I found myself boarding another plane, this time to head to one of my favorite places in the state (that would be Grand Rapids) for my friend Andy’s bachelor weekend (and congrats on the upcoming nuptials, fella!). Now, the last time I was in Grand Rapids, it was for  a November road trip — so the temperature, weather and list of activities was just a bit different. Time flies by in New York City, so it’s always great to slow down, get back home and reconnect with … Pure Michigan (got that one out of the way). Of course, as with my other summer trips — including a stop upstate for a concert and a Memorial Day weekend in New York — I loaded up my bag with all the menswear I could possibly carry; in this case, that’s quite a lot.

Packed up to hit the road. Denim Shirt by JackThreads. Voyager Waxed Weekender by Owen & Fred. Natural Diplomat Boots by Thursday Boots. Legend Sneakers by SeaVees. Hudson Belt by Arcade Belt Co. Flat Wool Cap by Bridge & Burn. Waterbury Chrono from the Timex x Red Wing collab.

Packed up to hit the road. Denim Shirt by JackThreads. Voyager Waxed Weekender & leather luggage tag by Owen & Fred. Natural Diplomat Boots by Thursday Boots. Legend Sneakers by SeaVees. Hudson Belt by Arcade Belt Co. Flat Wool Cap by Bridge & Burn. Waterbury Chrono from the Timex x Red Wing collab. Millbrook Sunglasses by Steven Alan Optical.

Any great trip — to Michigan or elsewhere — starts with a great bag, one with plenty of room to carry your essentials and more. While I alternate between my trusty Navali Stowaway Weekender and my durable Owen & Fred Voyager Waxed Weekender, I chose my O&F bag for this trip. It’s made from premium Martexin waxed canvas and finished off with leather accents from fellow made-in-America purveyors Wickett & Craig. It has interior zipper compartments to hold all your gear, and in my case, that included my always-dependable Herschel Supply Co. Chapter Travel Kit, which I stocked with handy travel grooming essentials from brands like Tread for Men (their Traveler Sunscreen is a must in the summer) and Baxter of California — the Under Eye Complex is an underrated and handy piece to have when traveling. Elsewhere on the accessories front, I knew a hot Michigan weekend was in order. That meant my Steven Alan Optical Millbrook Sunglasses were just the ticket — seriously, we’ve got more than cold winters back home. I always appreciate the chance to rock a subtle, stylish hat when the sun beats down, and the Flat Wool Cap from Bridge & Burn is a nice upgrade to the typical athletic logo ballcap — it’s slightly refined and yet still casual.

Buck Mason - Timeless Design. Made in America.

All of that gear helped me pack & transition in style from an early flight out of NYC to a sunny evening in downtown Grand Rapids. As I always appreciate the chance to look sharp and travel in style, I grabbed the lightweight, casual and comfortable Green and Navy Plaid Poplin Shirt from JACHS NY. A well-fitting, casual basic like that works well when worn untucked (as you can see in the top photo) or when tucked in with a lightweight blazer. In this instance, it paired up well with the Slim Ludlow Denim from Mott & Bow. These jeans are built with a hint of stretch, ideal for a long day of travel.The light blue color also played well off my Hudson Belt from Arcade Belt Co. , ith its navy color and stretchy smartweave fabric. That was also the case with the very lightweight, very comfortable UGG Freamon Sneaker   — they looked great and worked perfectly for getting from the airport and around Grand Rapids. Yes, you read that right. UGG does men’s footwear, and they do it well — more on that later. And my tough, rugged and refined Timex x Red Wing Waterbury Chrono also provided on-point travel style. As far as getting around Grand Rapids, it was an opportune time to catch up with my great friend Andy and his future fiancée Courtney for a delicious dinner at Derby Station in East Grand Rapids (hint: Get the Adult Grilled Cheese and finish it off with a Farmhand from Brewery Vivant — it’s a light, crisp and flavorful French farmhouse ale that’s perfect for hot summer nights). With Friday off and running, we also had just enough time to stop into The Meanwhile, an eclectic spot that feels like it would fit well in Brooklyn — with gin-and-tonics available for $4, the prices would stand out back in New York City.

Taking on Saturday in sporty, casual style. Vesper Polo and Ace Short by Mack Weldon. Hayden Gray Linen Jacket & Flat Wool Cap by Bridge & Burn. Freamon Sneakers by UGG. Mod Watch from the Timex x Todd Snyder collab. Glasses by Warby Parker.

Taking on Saturday in sporty, casual style. Vesper Polo and Ace Short by Mack Weldon. Hayden Gray Linen Jacket & Flat Wool Cap by Bridge & Burn. Freamon Sneakers by UGG. Mod Watch from the Timex x Todd Snyder collab. Glasses by Warby Parker.

A fun Friday night led into yet another busy day on Saturday around Grand Rapids — and away from the city — with plenty in the works. To take on the day, I reached for a crucial style move in the heat: We’re talking here about the new, very breathable, lightweight Mack Weldon Vesper Polo. With a name inspired by the original martini sipped by James Bond, it was perfect in a figurative and literal sense for the  hot weather — seriously, the micro-mesh fabric and crisp Total Eclipse Blue color proved comfortable and sharp. The same thing goes for the Mack Weldon Ace Short — it’s another piece from the brand’s line of essential basics that fits & performs well, thanks to the French terry fabric and multiple discreet-but-useful zipper pockets. And that comfort proved essential for walking the city and grabbing a morning pick-me-up at the renowned Madcap Coffee, one of the top coffee shops in the country and a great place to catch up with my old MSU friend Pat Evans (he’s a heck of a writer and a beer aficionado to boot — grab his book on the history of Grand Rapids beer while you’re at it). We also had just enough time to swing by one of the city’s best new lifestyle shops, Brothers Leather Supply. They make ridiculously well-crafted bags and leather accessories, and they do it right in Grand Rapids — check out the photo below for a sneak peek, and look for more content on them on the blog  soon! Pat and I also took the time to hit up one of my favorite Grand Rapids stops, the renowned HopCat (purveyors of amazing beer and great burgers across the Midwest) before I reconnected with Andy and the crew for a vigorous round of foot golf in the Michigan countryside — it’s a heck of a workout if you’re used to sitting at a desk all day! Of course, all that activity meant that accessories like my Steven Alan Optical Millbrook Sunglasses and the Bridge & Burn Flat Wool Cap also proved quite useful.

One of Grand Rapids' finer menswear establishments, Brothers Leather Supply.

One of Grand Rapids’ finer menswear establishments, Brothers Leather Supply.

And it goes without saying that my Timex x Todd Snyder Mod Watch (currently on backorder but still a must-buy) was the perfect, sporty watch to meet the dual focuses of outdoor activity and indoor beer-tasting — it’s a tough job, but someone’s gotta do it.  Truly, there aren’t that many watches that can look great and perform well when traveling, bar-hopping or hitting up the Panorama music festival, but that watch is one of them. Of course, the occasion called for comfortable footwear, too. That’s where the UGG Freamon Sneaker came back into play. Featuring the brand’s traction-focused Treadlite technology and a sharp white sole, the  Seal (or light grey) option sent courtesy of the brand (thanks, guys!) provided a dash of unexpected style alongside the blues in my outfit. In fact, you can look for much more from them this fall on the blog. . And to finish off the look, I reached for some comfortable, breathable striped no-show socks from Sock Genius — when you’ve got lightweight summer sneakers along for the ride, grab stylish no-show socks to keep your feet (and your sneakers) in shape.

A busy Saturday out and about led us to a night of sampling brews and bites around Grand Rapids — that included a stop through the renowned and quickly growing Founders Brewing Company, one of my favorite spots in the city. We also carved out time to check out the first-ever distillery in the city, Long Road Distillers — they make a mean gin-and-tonic and a refreshing array of craft cocktails. For those activities, I switched up my footwear and reached for the tough, sturdy and stylish Natural Diplomat Boot from Thursday Boots, and I grabbed my rugged Waterbury Chrono from the Timex x Red Wing collaboration — it’s the ideal mix of casual and smart, and it worked just as well throughout the weekend. If you have to travel with only one watch, that just might be the one to grab. The entire combination worked well for a fun night out celebrating our great friend Andy — and it’s got me even more excited to be back in Michigan in less than three weeks for the wedding! If you’ve still got a summer wedding on your calendar, here’s what you should wear.

Sunday's outfit grid for a day of travel. Denim Shirt by JackThreads. Slim Stone Chinos by Taylor Stitch. Natural Diplomat Boots by Thursday Boots. Hudson Belt by Arcade Belt Co. Mod Watch by Timex x Todd Snyder. Notebook by Word Notebooks.

Sunday’s outfit grid for a day of travel. Denim Shirt by JackThreads. Slim Stone Chinos by Taylor Stitch. Natural Diplomat Boots by Thursday Boots. Hudson Belt by Arcade Belt Co. Mod Watch by Timex x Todd Snyder. Notebook by Word Notebooks.

With a very busy Saturday night in the books, it was time to load up on coffee and hit the road for a relatively easy flight back to New York City (a welcome change from some past travel struggles getting back to Michigan). I still dressed in durable travel gear for the trip — my Thursday Boots Natural Diplomat Boot in particular was the perfect pair of boots to wear to get back to Manhattan; they’re rugged-yet-refined, and went well with my Taylor Stitch Slim Chinos in Light Stone.  And my Timex x Todd Snyder Mod Watch was again up to the challenge of traveling in style — each piece was offset nicely by what just might be my new favorite casual shirt, the JackThreads Denim Shirt. It fits slim, the light wash cotton denim is soft and moves well, and the styling potential is on-point (look for it in an upcoming #OOTD post, in fact). And with all that gear ready to go, it was time to hit the road back.

Yet again, it feels like this past weekend in Michigan was too brief. It was great to explore one of my favorite cities in Michigan, and I’m just as excited to return again. And of course, you really can’t quantify the value of spending time with lifelong friends. On the plus side, there’s another chance for me to get back to Michigan — I’ll be back in just three weeks (again!) for Andy’s wedding near my lovely hometown of Mason. That trip will be just as fun, and with just as many chances for … (wait for it)… Pure Michigan relaxation (yes, I went there again). If you’ve got questions on how to travel in style or just want to chat menswear, check out my Twitter account or hit the ‘Follow’ button over on Instagram.

Until the next flight boards,

-Beau

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Sock Genius No-Show Socks

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 whole post on socks? Sure thing, especially when they're comfortable and well-fitting ones from the Sock Genius line at Ties.com.

A whole post on socks? Sure thing, especially when they’re comfortable and well-fitting ones from the Sock Genius line at Ties.com.

Before we dive into this week’s post, know that the title is no mistake — we’re really talking no-show socks here today. And there’s plenty of good reason for that. It’s the end of July — so it’s plenty hot, and that heat isn’t going anywhere any time soon. If you snagged a pair or two (or heck, three) of no-show socks near the start of summer, you’ve probably been wearing them a lot. After all, they’re an essential to pair up with classic leather sneakers  or even suede Derby shoes beneath your favorite pair of rolled chinos. And if they’ve seen a lot of wear, maybe they could use a refresh. And maybe you want to check out a new, inexpensive and high-performing brand — that’s where the Sock Genius line of socks through Ties.com slides into the equation (and onto your feet). The brand’s no-show socks come in a range of patterns and colors, although a personal favorite is the Villa Park Stripe No-show Sock as seen above. In fact, I happen to be rocking this weekend on a trip back to Michigan to complement some classic SeaVees sneakers (more on that on Monday, though). The point is, once you give Sock Genius no-show socks a try, you might want to pick up plenty more pairs. And given that the quality and pricing is quite agreeable, it’s worth it — I was definitely pleased when I wore one of the brand’s ties and a sharp pocket square to a recent Michigan wedding, and I’ve found their no-show socks to be similarly pleasing to wear.

One of the many color and pattern combinations available through Ties.com and its Sock Genius line.

The La Habra no-show sock — one of the many color and pattern combinations available through Ties.com and its Sock Genius line.

Buck Mason - Timeless Design. Made in America.

Just like a comfortable and well-fitting pair of boxer briefs or a high-performing undershirt, the basics that are closest to your skin should stand up to the heat of the summer — that’s particularly true when being on your feet during the hot summer months. And whether you’re heading to Sunday brunch or bringing along a cooler to a backyard barbeque, you need no-show socks that can handle a lot. Plus, it doesn’t hurt that the variety of Sock Genius options (nearly 20)  combine nice patterns and colors that don’t look bad at all when it’s time to slip off your… slip-on sneakers, ehh?. If a pop of color (like the La Habra seen above) is too much though, they’re also offering up a classic four-pack of solid no-show socks for $30 — that’s quite the deal when one considers you’re getting a pair of no-show socks for almost every day of the work week. Again, style upgrades are in the details, and when you can snag no-show socks that perform admirably and look great, I say jump right on it. And hey, you can pick up a classic tie or pocket square while perusing the Ties.com site, too. See how to style no-show socks with other essentials on the daily at my Instagram, or ask away on any and all things #menswear over at The Style Guide.

Do you own any Sock Genius socks? Would you add the brand to your rotation, or is your sock drawer full?

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Timex x Todd Snyder Mod Watch

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 military NATO strap and a vintage-inspired design help this timepiece stand out in the best possible way. Photo courtesy of Timex.

A military NATO strap and a vintage-inspired design help this timepiece stand out in the best possible way. Photo courtesy of Timex.

Here at The Style Guide, your humble author is a big fan of rugged, tried-and-true classics — that goes for everything from chambray shirts to rugged leather chukka boots. But every now and then, slightly unexpected-yet-modern pieces are welcomed into the fold. That’s certainly the case with the Timex x Todd Snyder Mod Watch, a one-of-a-kind timepiece available exclusively through the lauded American designer’s Web site. In fact, it’s proven such a hit that it’s only available for backorder as of the time of this post. Yet, you should still seriously consider putting your name on that list (and then waiting anxiously until September, of course). Why is it so essential to get in the game now for us #menswear fans? Well for one, the timepiece itself is a perfect stylish casual watch that updates a vintage Timex design for the modern age. For another, it signals the start of an ongoing partnership between a classic watch brand and one of America’s best menswear designers — the fact that it was shown on the runways at Snyder’s recent New York Fashion Week: Men’s show is icing on the cake. And perhaps most importantly — it means you have a great excuse to pick up a new watch that’s eye-catching, crisp, versatile and available for under $140. Todd Snyder already stocks the elusive and much-loved Timex x Red Wing watch collaboration, featuring rugged watches that utilize tough Red Wing leather in the straps themselves. The Timex x Todd Snyder Mod Watch is a little more toned-down and refined, yet still very wearable — it’s an example of hitting it right down the middle when it comes to design balance.

A closer look at the red-and-black mod bullseye design, inspired by the Timex archives. Photo courtesy of the brand.

A closer look at the red-and-black mod bullseye design, inspired by the Timex archives. Photo courtesy of the brand.

Buck Mason - Timeless Design. Made in America.
Snyder’s savvy eye, combined with the knowledge of the Timex design team, leaves us with a striking watch that’s like none on the market right now. The red-and-black dial combo is unique enough in and of itself, but when paired with the military NATO strap, you’ve got a combination that’s made for rocking with a classic blue Oxford and slim sand chinos at the office, and a slim pocket T-shirt and navy chino shorts on the weekend. The 40mm case diameter hits the sweet spot in terms of size — it’s not too small, and it’s not overly large. That’s the benefit of a watch that manages to be clean and classic yet striking at the same time — it goes with anything. Truly, a sufficiently stylish NATO strap timepiece can even work with a  suit — just steal a style tip from James Bond in Spectre. Of course, the dial designs of each of those watches are different, but the idea remains the same. There are very few casual watches that can transition from being worn with something as casual as slim blue denim and a short-sleeve henley to being worn with a blazer, and that pool is narrowed even further when you look for something under $140.  So, the design is one-of-a-kind, the styling potential is one-of-a-kind and the price is …. well, one-of-a-kind. In fact, you’re really getting multiple watches for the price of one — the easy-to-change NATO strap can be easily switched out with everything from a Horween leather watch strap  to a floral NATO watch strap (truly). If that’s not enough to convince you, just know that this watch won’t stick around for long once it’s re-stocked — so pre-ordering it could be the smartest move you make this weekend.

What’s your take on the design of the Timex x Todd Snyder Mod Watch? How would you rock this timepiece?

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Stock Mfg. Co. Pocket Tee

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.

An update to the standard T-shirt, crafted from durable cotton and dyed with indigo for a unique color.

An update to the standard T-shirt, crafted from durable cotton and dyed with indigo for a unique color.

When the weather warms up, there’s probably no style I love to rock more consistently than a slim pocket tee made from durable fabric.  Of course, I always appreciate a rugged short-sleeve henley, too. But a pocket tee is a great visual go-between for when you don’t just want to throw on a plain T-shirt. Is it the fanciest item of clothing in the world? Certainly not. But hey, who said T-shirts weren’t essential items of clothing for the weekend — or under a slim navy blazer? No one, that’s who (had to put my foot down there). What’s more, looking great in a T-shirt is another plus of warmer weather. So with all that  being said, allow me to introduce this week’s Style Pick of the Week: The Indigo Vintage Wash Pocket Tee from Stock Mfg. Co. The brand, like so many other Style Guide favorites, is all about refining  (and re-defining) American classics, like the humble T-shirt, with great fabrics, modern fits and a dash of heritage quality. In fact, the brand’s Sage Linen Buttondown was a summer style favorite of this writer. The fact that the brand produces its garments in a family-owned factory that also makes non-combat military garments is applause-worthy in and of itself, and this T-shirt is no exception.

The Indigo Vintage Wash Pocket Tee is made from a durable 6.6oz. cotton that should hold up quite well over time thanks to the heavier weight (a flimsy tee from a fast-fashion retailer, this is not). The pigment dye and enzyme wash should give it an exceptionally soft fabric feel, too. That means it’ll feel just as well-worn (in a good way) as your favorite broken-in tee. That quality gives it the styling potential to be paired with everything from white sneakers and lightwash denim to an unconstructed blazer and slim tan chinos (a favorite combination of your humble author, in fact). Plus, the lighter blue allows it to play nicely off a tough denim jacket for a nice way to mix up your blues. You’re paying quite a bit more than you would for a standard white tee, but you also get all kinds of styling potential through spring and summer (feel free to throw it on under a grey shawl cardigan in winter, too). Just a T-shirt? Anything but.

Happy shopping and thanks so much for reading!

-Beau