Tag / everyday carry

by Beau H.

#OOTD: Versatile Suiting with AWEARNESS Kenneth Cole

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

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

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

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

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

suiting-photo-3-edited

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

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

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

by Beau H.

#OOTD: How to Wear a Flannel Shirt for Fall

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.

It’s been a few weeks since we had a proper #OOTD here on The Style Guide, so we’re getting back to business today. As fall weather rolls into your neck of the woods, perhaps you’ve been breaking out some of your favorite style essentials for the season. It’s a time much-loved around Style Guide HQ for that very reason — and your list of seasonal essentials should definitely include a flannel shirt. Now, cotton flannel fabric in a plaid pattern carries with it a bit of a negative stigma — it was such a trendy staple for years that it might seem played out. But there are a few key ways you can break out a flannel shirt without looking as if you’re heading off to chop wood. The key starts, as always, with the fit of your shirt. Take that classic flannel fabric, slim it down (or size down) and pair it with a decidedly modern bomber jacket. Oh, that’s right — that’s what the below #OOTD is doing. Take a look below, follow your author on Instagram and follow The Style Guide on Facebook for your daily prescribed dose of #menswear.

Not too trendy, not too boring -- just right. A modern flannel shirt paired with other modern staples.

Not too trendy, not too boring — just right. A modern flannel shirt paired with other modern staples.

The Flannel Shirt: Eddie Bauer Favorite Flannel Shirt, $49.99 — There are some brands you don’t mess with when it comes to flannel. Eddie Bauer’s been making these for years, and they’re comfortable, easily wearable and — here’s the key — slightly visually different in an engaging Baltic plaid pattern. Size down for a slightly trimmer fit, and wear it a ton.

The Bomber Jacket: Beckett Simonon Cole Bomber Jacket, $295 — The biggest key to making this look more modern than lumberjack? A beautiful calfskin suede bomber jacket in a trim fit. Treat this piece with care (I.e. Avoid the rain) and it should last through many seasons to come.

The Denim: Cheap Monday Sonic Denim (Available via East Dane), $90 — Learn more about a denim brand that could be a new favorite — we’re talking classic washes, nice fits and agreeable price points for the quality.

The Boots: Chippewa Original 6-Inch Service Boot in Cordovan, $269.98 — Does it get any better than ridiculously durable Chippewa boots, especially in Cordovan? Hardly. These boots are the rugged complement to the slick bomber jacket — you’re wearing a flannel shirt, after all.

The Socks: American Trench Pima Cotton Houndstooth Socks, $18.98 — Textured socks in this particular color should play nicely off the deeper blue of the plaid flannel shirt — the American-made quality doesn’t hurt, either.

The Watch: Timex for J. Crew Andros Watch, $118 — J. Crew does many things quite well, and a few things very well — its collaborations with third-party partners rank high on that list.

The Belt: Rag & Bone Rugged Brass Belt. $150 (Available via East Dane) — Is $150 a lot for a belt? It certainly is. But Rag & Bone does essential basics without fuss — this durable belt falls within that category neatly.

The Everyday Carry: Taylor Stitch Raw Brass Keyhook, $32 — Goods from Taylor Stitch — from the brand’s Everyday Chambray Shirt to this keyhook — are as well-made as can be. Carry this thing everywhere, and never lose your keys again, yeah?

Again, the key with breaking out a flannel shirt revolves around picking a more unique color than the tried-and-true red-and-black combination, along with a slimmer fit. Of course, a sharp suede bomber jacket helps matters out, as do simple, clean accessories like a NATO strap watch and premium socks (yes, the socks do make a difference). Some of the picks are definitely pricey, but as we always say, they can serve as a nice reward, and a reminder of the quality you get when you pay a bit (or a lot) extra for everyday goods. Got any questions on this #OOTD? Or would you swap in a few different brands? Hit me up on Twitter.
Check back tomorrow for another fall-centric style suggestion — and until then…
Stay stylish,
-Beau

 

by Beau H.

#OOTD: How to Wear a Bomber Jacket This Season

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.

Ahh, yes. The classic bomber jacket. A men’s style staple that’s experienced a huge resurgence in recent years, in part thanks to certain, ahem, celebrities (Mr. Kanye West among them). But how do you take a style that’s seen on the runways and boil it down to an essential, easily wearable outfit? A solid menswear #OOTD, if you will? That’s why we’re here today at The Style Guide, and after you read the below, your questions will all be answered (hopefully). The key with looking at a major trend sometimes isn’t too follow it exactly — that is to say, you can buy that Alpha Industries bomber jacket, but maybe (no, definitely) switch it up from how Yeezy wears it. In this case, we’re working with a different bomber jacket entirely, and classic style staples like a slim chambray shirt and … well, we’ll leave that to the imagination for now. Have thoughts or suggestions on how you would style your bomber jacket? Leave a comment below or join the (very fun!) conversation on Twitter.

Slick, sharp and casual -- just the right way to wear a bomber this fall.

Slick, sharp and casual — just the right way to wear a bomber this fall.

The Bomber Jacket: Bridge & Burn Northrup Olive Jacket, $218 — See, I said we were using a different bomber jacket entirely — right? The olive color is neutral and yet still a change of pace from navy or that military green typically seen on bomber jackets, and the front snap hip pockets and stand-up collar are neat design touches, too.

The Chambray Shirt: JackThreads Chambray Workshirt, $49 — The great thing about starting an outfit with a neutral bomber jacket is that any classic chambray shirt in your arsenal would work — yet this neat patterned workshirt offers a heftier weight for fall, plus a pattern that’s just different enough.

The Denim: Mott & Bow Slim Morton Denim, $128 — You (probably) should recognize the Mott & Bow Slim Morton as a recent Style Pick of the Week entry, and it’s a good pick here because of the super-comfortable four-way stretch and dark black color in a no-fade rinse.

The Sneakers: UGG Kramer Sneakers, $120 — Your humble author discovered the comfort and style of UGG men’s sneakers during a summer trip to Michigan, and the Kramer falls right in line with those same qualities. Surprised? Don’t be — these are a reliable, stylish high-top sneaker pick for the season ahead.

The Socks: ICNY Half-Calf Gradient Socks, $13.98 — Sometimes, you just need simple, straightforward socks that offer neutral color, comfort and performance. You get all that with this pair for a pretty decent price, and the fact that the fine folks at Huckberry sell ’em is a positive.

The Watch: MVMT Watches The 40 in Rose Gold/Natural Leather, $120 — Since when can you get a crisp, versatile watch fit for both casual and dress situation? At a low price, to boot? Since MVMT Watches started making ’em, that’s when. The case diameter is just right, and the look is crisp and clean for just over $100.

The Belt: Tanner Goods Classic Belt in Hickory, $99.98 — Looking for an investment-worthy belt that’ll break in beautifully and offer a rich accent to dressy and casual outfits? Here it is.

The Everyday Carry: Bull & Stash The Stash Notebook (5.5″ x 9″), $50 — $50? For a notebook? Bear with me. Bull & Stash Notebooks support American-made production and top-notch quality, and they’re refillable — just swap out the paper when you’re done (save those memories though).

Buck Mason - Timeless Design. Made in America.

If the below #OOTD feels a bit too casual for you with those sneakers, swap them out for a pair of stylish men’s dress shoes (casual wingtips are a nice way to go), or heck, keep the sneakers and add a navy knit tie to wear this to the office. This sort of casual yet put-together look might be best for a  weekend coffee run or, dare I say it … Sunday brunch. And since it’s a midweight approach to wearing a bomber jacket — note the lack of a heavy hoodie, a la Kanye — it should work in the early fall or spring in the right conditions. For a bomber jacket that’s certainly an investment, it’s a positive that it can be worn multiple ways. For a look at how yours truly styles spring and fall outerwear for similar situations, head over to Instagram — maybe? Please?

‘Til the next #OOTD,

-Beau

by Beau H.

#OOTD: The Best Way to Wear A Henley This Fall

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.

So it’s not exactly the middle of summer anymore, is it? That’s a strange sensation if you’ve been used to dressing for the heat or packing up stylish beach gear. But if  you’re anything like this #menswear writer, you relish the chance to dress for seasonal transitions and break out some of your favorite seasonal style staples. We’re talking pieces that are rugged and refined, ready for casual wear or able to be worn with a bit more tailored style in mind. And in the case of this week’s #OOTD, we’re looking at an outstanding piece for a seasonal transition — the ever-reliable slim long-sleeve henley.  With its athletic-minded origins and rugged good looks, a great henley certainly works in the summer as well as the in-between period between summer and fall. But particularly when it’s made with marled fabric and plenty of quality and comfort, it’s the ideal early (and middle, and late) fall style piece — think of the below #OOTD as a weekend workhorse look. To get your mind right when it comes to stylish henleys, check out last year’s picks for the best men’s henleys for fall — and know that we’ll have a similar feature coming on this site in the weeks ahead. Oh, and how exactly should you style this durable staple? We won’t drop any hints up here — scroll below to check out the #OOTD, join in on the men’s style conversation at The Sty le Guide’s Facebook page, and check out this guy’s Instagram for daily style tips.

Best men's henleys for fall

Just one way — but perhaps, the best way — to wear a henley this fall.

The Henley: Flint & Tinder Marled Long-Sleeve Henley, $62  — So, the henley shown here is a bit more expensive than you might be used to paying for a basic layering piece. But the quality, fit and styling potential is top-notch, and given the fact that it’s part of a slew of new additions to the Flint & Tinder product line, you should definitely pick up this slim henley.

The Coat: Old Navy Canvas Coat, $69.94 — It might initially be too hot to wear a canvas coat atop that henley, but know that when it gets slightly chilly and you need a crisp top layer, this rugged canvas coat is the perfect finishing touch.

The Chinos: JACHS NY Grey Bowie Fit Stretch Cotton Chino, $89 — Why go with chinos here as opposed to slim, dark denim? They lend the look a bit of high-low style appeal, and the fabric and slim fit are nice positives.

The Boots: CAT Footwear Russell Boot, $150 — Boots that blend different fabrics and textures (like wool and leather) with a sturdy ankle boot, moc toe combination are the perfect way to nod toward the chillier temperatures of fall — not to mention the rugged-refined vibe of this outfit.

The Socks: Flint & Tinder Inventor Socks, $17.98 (Three-pack) — If we’re going with a Flint & Tinder henley, might as well go with crisp, stylish and comfortable Flint & Tinder socks, ehh?

The Watch: Timex x Red Wing Waterbury Chrono, $158 — The Timex x Red Wing Heritage collaboration is a certified Style Guide favorite, and it’s the perfect mixture of toughness and style to offset the other fall-appropriate pieces in this #OOTD.

The Belt: Anderson’s Stretch Woven Leather Belt, $195 — If you want a belt that’s going to work as hard as you do, last forever (truly) and add some subtle texture to this overall look, the Anderson Stretch Woven Leather Belt is the way to go.

The Everyday Carry: United By Blue Lakeland Laptop Bag, $119.98 — Looking for a durable, dependable bag to haul around your laptop? This United By Blue laptop bag merges function and fashion, and it does so while promoting a good cause (the brand removes one pound of trash from oceans & waterways for every item sold).

Are you ready for some fall weather yet? Hopefully so. Dressing for the transitional period between the heat of summer and the chill of winter can seem taxing if you’ve grown used to wearing that short-sleeve chambray shirt for months on end, yet reaching for the right pieces can make it an enjoyable task. A marled henley is an essential for the colder months, and when mixed with dependable boots and refined chinos, it can work in even more style situations. On top of that, sharp socks that add a pop of color play nicely off dressy touches like that textured leather belt and rugged leather watch. And if it gets truly cold in the weeks ahead, you can always add a crisp shawl cardigan to this same ensemble. Have questions or more suggestions for the #OOTD series? Shoot me a note on Twitter.

Make room in your closet for a great henley — and stay stylish in the meantime!

-Beau

by Beau H.

#OOTD: How to Dress for A Rock Concert

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.

Chances are, we’ve all got certain style scenarios throughout the week we have to tackle — be it dressing for a laidback office or a laidback summer weekend, there’s a multitude of conundrums (and opportunities!) to navigate in any given week. If you enjoy live music — as I very much do — you might also find yourself attending a show or two … or three. Heck, from the 2016 Panorama music festival to Governors Ball to an upstate trip to see Lucius, I love it all, and I get out and about to shows quite a bit. If you read this blog, you certainly know that; maybe you’ve even tackled a similar scenario, such as how to dress for a summer music festival. However, non-festival settings are a different animal entirely. We’re usually talking an indoor venue, a more compact crowd, and possibly time spent waiting in line outside. So, what are you going to wear? And namely, what’s a combination that might hold up alright at the office and then heading to the show itself? This is one of the essential questions in life (wink, wink) and it’s the one we’re going to answer below. As yours truly likes to drive home, looking for ways to improve — and maintain — your style comes down to always seizing the chance to do a little bit extra when it comes to getting dressed. That’s where style upgrades come into play, even off the clock. The below outfit certainly has a few of those. If you want to keep up with what I’m wearing at my next show (obviously), head to Instagram. To check out my thoughts on music & other musings, check out my non-menswear Twitter — it exists! — right here.

Ready for the front row -- a chambray shirt, slim black denim and Chelsea boots are about as concert-ready as it gets.

Ready for the front row — a chambray shirt, slim black denim and Chelsea boots are about as concert-ready as it gets.

The Jacket: Abercrombie & Fitch M-65 Military Jacket, $150 –The (somewhat) new and very improved Abercrombie & Fitch is keeping that roll going into the fall season with pieces like this timeless, sharp and versatile field jacket. It works just as well over a knit tie with a blue Oxford as it does with this outfit’s other pieces.

The Shirt: Buck Mason Short-Sleeve Chambray Shirt, $108 — If you’ve kept your eyes peeled, you’ve seen this Buck Mason short-sleeve chambray shirt as part of this site’s Style Pick of the Week series. It’s an essential done the right way, and the short sleeves will keep you cooler even underneath the jacket.

The Denim: Levi’s 505C Slim-Fit Jeans in DeeDee Wash, $98 — Is it cliché to wear black jeans to a rock concert? Not when that pair of denim is inspired by an actual archival style worn by rockers like the Ramones. (Read more by yours truly at The Manual).

The Boots: Soul36 Fairmont Chelsea Boots in Taupe, $249 — Because no trip to a concert is complete with rock-ready footwear, suede Chelsea boots that can handle a bit of a beating are the exact way to go.

The Socks: Pair of Thieves Okapi Socks, $10  — When your outfit relies on lots of shades of blue (plus some black and tan), a vibrant shot of red is never a bad thing. The price on these Pair of Thieves socks simply can’t be beat.

The Belt: Tanner Goods Classic Belt in Hickory, $99.98 — An average belt just won’t do here — no, your belt should be one that works at the office and at a show, and a refined-yet-rugged Tanner Goods belt is neither too dressy or dressed-down.
Frank & Oak
The Watch: AVI-8 Hawker Hunter Watch, $270 — Seeing as we’re pushing for an outfit that’s equal parts rugged, tough and office-ready, this aviation-inspired timepiece — featuring a beefy 45mm case diameter and smart dial design — is ideal.

The Wallet: Andar Wallets Scout Wallet, $22 — Before we get into what makes this wallet so great, know that you can get 10 percent off your purchase with the code ‘STYLEGUIDE’ — now, why should do that? This wallet is slim enough to fit into the front pocket of that denim, functional enough to hold a small amount of cash and a few essential cards, and memorable enough in design that you won’t leave it behind at the bar.

As you can see in the #OOTD above, the small style details matter, from the cut of your shirt to the color of your socks — and they can be merged into one functional outfit that’s fit for something as unique as a rock concert. Those suede Chelsea boots that you might pair with a business-casual look will fit right in as you jockey for a front-row spot (or a spot at the bar). Pieces like a navy military jacket and a chambray shirt are multi-season essentials that work particularly well for transitioning from location to location — indoors or outdoors. The military jacket is rugged yet sharp when paired up with that crisp blue short-sleeve chambray shirt. And while black denim might feel a touch rebellious, a clean wash in a dark color is certainly as concert-ready  as durable pair of inky blue denim. Lastly, that durable watch and slim wallet are nice additions to your daily haul any day of the week. If you have suggestions or thoughts on what you’re wearing to your next show, write me a note on Twitter (my #menswear one, if you prefer).

Stay stylish and snap a concert video for me,

-Beau

by Beau H.

#OOTD: How to Wear a Denim Dress Shirt

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. Thanks to Paul Fredrick for partnering with The Style Guide on today’s post and shirt review.

There’s only one way to do business casual — right? Maybe a classic blue Oxford, tan chinos and stylish leather dress shoes? Well, that’s certainly one way to look at it. But the great thing about being into matters of style is that there’s not really one set uniform any more. Now, there are certainly preferred ways to dress (preferably not using Mr. Kanye West as an example) and you definitely need to keep fit and proportion in mind, but there’s room for experimentation. Such is the case with this week’s #OOTD here on The Style Guide. It starts out classically enough — using a button-down collar shirt and grey pants as the outfit’s base, but deviates from there. The denim dress shirt in particular is worth noting. Now that you’ve got that in line, how should you style this shirt? Well, we don’t want to give away all the good stuff — read on for more, and send me a tweet on Twitter if you have a style suggestion you’d like to see covered.

 

Part casual, part classic and all wearable -- taking a denim shirt and mixing things up.

Part casual, part classic and all wearable — taking a denim shirt and mixing things up.

The Shirt: Paul Fredrick Slim-Fit Non-Iron Solid Twill Shirt, $89.50 — Made from textured 100 percent cotton twill that looks just like your favorite pair of dark denim, this shirt is a welcome change of place from a white Oxford or even a lighter blue chambray shirt.

The Jacket: Rogue State Suede Bomber Jacket, $139.99 — How do you mix up a crisp business-casual look even further? With a bomber that’s slick and anything but straightforward. Even if it’s a bit warm now, this jacket should be a fall workhorse.

The Pants: Dockers Jean Cut Slim Fit Pants, $58 — While slim grey chinos would also work here, there’s just something about a denim shirt that calls for a  bit more texture, and these five-pocket pants, inspired by classic denim and cut slim, are just the ticket.

The Sneakers: Todd Snyder x P.F. Flyers Grounder Hi-Top in Olive, $130 — The latest iteration of the Todd Snyder x P.F. Flyers collaboration  is the perfect way to trade out brown leather chukka boots for footwear that’s sporty but still outfit-appropriate. Wear them now, wear them on the weekends and look forward to fall.

The Socks: American Trench Textured Herringbone Supima Cotton Socks, $15 — There’s certainly a lot of darker color going on in this outfit, but these rich navy socks complement the olive sneakers, blue twill shirt and brown bomber jacket nicely.
The Watch: Jack Mason Brand Nautical 3-Hand Watch, $157.98 — Jack Mason stylishly merges the sporty, casual and refined in one timepiece inspired by nautical instruments. It’s the ideal addition to an ensemble that’s clean and fast.

The Belt: Maximum Henry Standard 02 Belt, $74.98 — The most “business casual” part of this outfit might be this slim, refined belt. Sizes are limited right now, but you can also find Maximum Henry belts at his Web site.

The Everyday Carry: This Is Ground Leatherback Writer 3, $84.98 — Everyone needs that one everyday carry item that can do it all, and this is the way to go. It holds your smartphone, doubles as a wallet and features a notebook slot and room for all your other odds and ends.
If ever you feel like you might be in a wardrobe rut, take the time to dream up some new outfit combinations, ways that you can use what you’ve already got to your advantage (or heck, enter the Paul Fredrick giveaway as discussed earlier and win some new clothes!). Working high-top sneakers into an office or work outfit might not be  for everyone, but with clean and classic styling potential, it’s worth a shot. And a slim-fitting denim dress shirt is the thinking man’s change of pace in terms of texture and color on the shirting front. Lastly, who couldn’t use a handsome bomber jacket and a sporty-yet-refined watch? These are all items worth considering in terms of your next #OOTD or your next #menswear purchase. Got questions or final thoughts? Leave ’em in the comments below.

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: Emerging Menswear Designers, Mack Weldon Underwear and Travel Style

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

Does it feel crazy that Labor Day is bearing down upon us? Wasn’t it just the Fourth of July? Heck, wasn’t it just Memorial Day? When you’ve been on the road so much — as I have — things start to move a little fast. It’s definitely been welcomed though, and I hope your summer has featured some great travel; I know I certainly had fun attending a Michigan wedding this past weekend, preceded by a stylish business trip to Las Vegas. Time on the road never ends, though — this weekend, I’m catching a flight to Florida to relax in the sand and sun with my parents! Just as with a  Style Guide spring break trip to Florida earlier this year, I’m very much looking forward to getting some quality beach and pool time. There are a lot of great reasons to be in town, including celebrating my mom’s birthday (Hi, Mom!) and a long-awaited AC/DC concert in nearby Fort Lauderdale (yes, AC/DC — an all-time favorite!). Of course, the trip will definitely include some delicious meals, ample shopping time and stops through Fort Myers’ finest breweries — not to mention, an Instagram feature or two … or several (and a full travel style blog post next week).  If you’ve got a trip of your own coming up, even if it’s just to the beach, bring along #menswear essentials and you’ll be all set.  For now though, let’s kick back in style and prep for the weekend ahead — there’s a little bit of everything in the below Friday Read.

  • Before you focus on your big fall purchases, refresh your underwear drawer — the Mack Weldon team just launched a bevy of new colors in its popular 18-Hour Jersey Boxer Brief. They’re perhaps the highest-quality underwear I’ve ever owned, and the fit & feel is great. Seriously, check out Mack Weldon if you haven’t already — yeah?
  • If you thought you knew all of your favorite menswear designers, think again. GQ Style introduces you to the best new menswear designers on the market this fall. Study up!
  • Last but not least — perhaps it’s my desire to upgrade my apartment space, but Valet urges you to upgrade your man cave into something more refined — a gentleman’s study. Not a bad thought — some essentials from the likes of Owen & Fred might set you right.

Don’t close your browser just yet — there’s more men’s style coverage right here:

    • Your new favorite fall sneakers are here — that is, if this launch wasn’t on your radar already. The latest Todd Snyder x P.F. Flyers collaboration just dropped (as covered by yours truly for The Manual), it’s just about everything you could ask for in a pair of high-top sneakers. We’re talking sturdy military-grade canvas on the upper, a reinforced sole and front toe bumper, and two very cool color options. Pick these up now and wear them as often as you can!
    • If you love a great finishing touch as much as I do, perhaps you’d be interested in checking out my GearMoose post on the best men’s dive watches — it covers options both budget-friendly and prohibitively expensive. It’s a supplement to this site’s guide to the best dive watches, if you will.

Buck Mason - Timeless Design. Made in America.

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Jack + Mulligan Ali Duffel

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.

Ali Duffel 2

If you’ve been paying any attention to your television or the Internet across the past week, you’ll know the Rio Olympics are well underway. They’ve given us a bunch of gold medals for the U.S., and a seriously large amount of Michael Phelps face memes (that’s the last you’ll read of it, sorry). Even yours truly at The Style Guide published a post on what to wear to watch the Olympics. Well, there’s still plenty more where that came from — and the best part about this week’s Style Pick? You can use it all year-round. Yes indeed, the Jack + Mulligan Ali Duffel is your answer to quite a few different questions. Namely, where can I find a gym bag that actually looks good? Maybe one that’s not too bulky, either? Truly, the stylish gym bag is an underrated style upgrade you should definitely consider making, and the fact that this option’s got patriotic roots only helps during this time of year (the $115 price tag isn’t too bad, either). The bag is named for the great boxer and Olympic gold medalist himself (that would be Muhammad Ali, folks), and it’s part of Jack + Mulligan’s “Pursuit of Greatness” capsule collection. The Ali Duffel is available in four colorways, but allow me to put forth a little Saturday menswear argument — the Ivory/Sport Blue combination is the only one you need if you find yourself Stateside. Why’s that? Keep on reading.

Available in three additional colorways, the Ivy/Sport Blue might be your best bet. Photo courtesy of Jack + Mulligan.

Available in three additional colorways, the Ivy/Sport Blue might be your best bet. Photo courtesy of Jack + Mulligan.

The water-repellent canvas body is stylishly offset by what’s truly a sporty blue colorblock on the bottom panel, plus fittingly American red-striped handles made from sturdy cotton.  Right down to the blue water-resistant nylon lining, the whole combination is old-school yet crisp. It’s the kind of bag that might stylishly complement something like a rugged-refined Todd Snyder graphic T-shirt as part of a casual off-duty look. And when you do take it to hit the gym, it’s going to stand out subtly and stylishly — no garish athletic logos or overly padded shoulder strap here. The entire combination is surprisingly sharp, and the patriotic look and feel of the moment means there’s no better time to buy it. If you’re heading to an Olympics viewing party, it’s a neat way to lug a few everyday carry essentials (plus a few brews) around — and it can serve the same function the rest o’ the year, as well. If you’re feeling particularly patriotic, you could even grab a Jack + Mulligan U.S.A. Baseball Cap to really complete the look. Finish it off with the comfortable, athletic-inspired Ace Short from Mack Weldon and you’ve got an entire ensemble that’s patriotic, fresh and ready for some relaxation (and rabid cheering, of course).

Will you be buying the Jack + Mulligan Ali Duffel?

Buck Mason - Timeless Design. Made in America.

by Beau H.

#OOTD: The Best Way to Wear Shorts this Summer

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.

We’ve covered lots of ground here in past #OOTD posts on The Style Guide, but it seems we’ve skipped over a crucial style tip — the best way to wear shorts when it’s hot out. If you’re anything like me, it can sometimes be tricky to put away your denim, be it a slim pair of light wash jeans or something darker in color. They’re an easy style to wear across any season, to be sure — but from time to time, the weather really just calls for shorts. However, we’re not talking baggy cargo shorts. The best shorts for summer are more tailored in cut, lighter in terms of weight and fabric, and able to be worn with everything from a slim pocket T-shirt to a crisp polo and most styles in between. The same goes for the footwear you can match ’em with (and the pick you see below is a bit of a style swerve). The versatility of a slim pair of shorts is great news for all of us, particularly if you like your #menswear a bit more eye-catching.  And if you’re hesitant to ditch your denim or chinos because shorts feel too casual, know that you can take some risks when wearing tailored shorts (click that there link for tips). The below outfit starts things off slow, though. It’s one of the best ways to wear shorts this summer — at least in the opinion of your humble author.

Step 1: Buy shorts for summer. Step 2: Rock shorts for summer using this #OOTD.

Step 1: Buy shorts for summer. Step 2: Rock shorts for summer using this #OOTD.

The Shorts: JackThreads Chino Shorts, $39 — If you haven’t yet snagged a pair of chino shorts, these should be your go-to. Trying them on is free through the brand’s TryOuts program, and the fit and fabric should be reliable and stylish.

The Shirt: JACHS NY Cream-and-Blue Horizontal Striped Short-Sleeve Shirt, $89 — Upgrade from a casual T-shirt with an easygoing short-sleeve number that fits slim and broadens your chest thanks to the stylish stripes.

The Shoes: Jack Erwin Parker Driving Loafer in Navy Suede, $115 — We all love our stylish sneakers, but give some suede driving loafers a try. This particular pair is cut long and lean, and the navy color is especially sleek.

The Socks: Ministry of Supply Atlas No-show Socks, $11.98 — As crucial as it is to get your footwear choice right, it’s even more essential to grab some no-show socks to complement those kicks (especially driving loafers). Note that although the Grey color is shown in that photo, Black is what’s in stock now.
 The Belt: Arcade Belt Co. The Hudson Belt, $31.98 — So, you’ve got the shorts all set; don’t forget about a belt, particularly an upscale accessory that incorporates a neutral color and summer-appropriate texture.
The Watch: Invicta 8926 Pro Diver, $84.14 — Tough, reliable and stylish is the way to go; this is a casual watch that still looks crisp and plays off the rest of the outfit perfectly.
The Sunglasses: Randolph Engineering Aviator Sunglasses in Gunmetal, $209.98 — To top off an outfit that’s got a bit of flourish (particularly those driving loafers), grab some classic men’s sunglasses.
The Necessary Accessory: Manda Organic Sun Paste, $28.98 — When it comes to getting out this summer, taking care of your skin is a must. Doing so in an organic fashion is even better.
The Everyday Carry: Appointed Mini-Jotter, $9.98 — Not everyone is partial to writing things down, what with technology everywhere, but when out on a casual weekend, it can be great to have a notebook handy to jot down your passing thoughts.

 Making the leap to wearing shorts more frequently than denim or chinos can be a work in progress, even when it’s warm out. But grabbing a slim, stylish pair in a neutral color allows you to pair them easily with essentials you’d also rock with classic denim — like a short-sleeve shirt, a casual watch and loafers, for example. And when you take the approach that khaki shorts can work with everything from a T-shirt to a classic Oxford shirt, that opens another world of possibilities (heading to the office for a half-day? Try out shorts with a blazer — perhaps).  Plus, keeping things affordable and simple helps when finding out the pair that’s best for you can help  a great deal. Are you on board yet? Good. For more tips on how to style shorts this summer, head on over to my Instagram, or jump on over to Twitter if you’ve got other summer shorts picks.

Frank & Oak

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: How to Style A Blazer, American-Made Watches & Taylor Stitch

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

Although all weeks go by particularly fast around these parts, this past week was one for a bit (just a bit) of reflection amidst the hustle and bustle of NYC. I had the chance to catch up for some delicious patio brews and oysters with my good friend Clay Chambers of Brothers & Craft, who just returned from some momentous time abroad at menswear trade and runway shows in London, Paris and Milan (and in fact, you can catch more on Clay in a Style Guide Q&A).  We took the time to catch up, to chat menswear and to take some time out from the grind — we find ourselves in different places a lot, but always reconnect. It’ was a great reminder to slow down every so often and take life in stride (even if the scenery is a bustling New York sidewalk). That helped cap off a busy week indeed, and I’m even more excited to finish off the work week with a special night at Daryl’s House Club (just a quick train ride from NYC), seeing one of my favorite groups of all-time, Lucius.  Their music definitely reminds me to slow down and take things in, and even if it’s my second time seeing them, it should be just as special. I hope you get the chance to take some time, relax and enjoy the weekend — but not before checking out the Friday Read below (wink, wink).

  • The ever-stylish team at Valet offers up 4 tips on how to style a blazer this summer; some of those combinations are absolutely perfect, don’t you think? (Editor’s note: For more tips on how to rock a blazer, click here).
  • The equally style-minded team at Gear Patrol reports that American watch company Weiss will be launching the first watch featuring an American-made movement in a long time.
  • Non-Style Note of the Week: We  all love some Starbucks, right? Well, there’s a chance they could be underserving and overcharging you — a case is headed to court claiming that Starbucks is overcharging you for smaller lattes; not exactly a great value, ehh?

On the lookout for more style content?

  • The team at Taylor Stitch is back at it again with the seriously sturdy Transit Duffel — get all the details via my latest post at GearMoose.
  • Add another collection to your list of “must-do” shopping — the Canvas by Lands’ End line is packed with style essentials, as I found out in writing a brand profile for the great team at The Manual!

Lastly, thanks as always for reading, and enjoy the weekend,

-Beau

Buck Mason - Timeless Design. Made in America.