Tag / fall style essentials for guys

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: Bastille, U.S. Authentic Leather Jackets and National Sneaker Day

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.

Do you ever reach the end of a week and look back at what a whirlwind it was? That was the case for me, starting even as the week kicked off. Live music is a real passion of mine, and in place of my typical Sunday dinner, I bought a last-minute ticket to The Meadows Afterparty — shows following the first-ever iteration of The Meadows Festival, to see an all-time favorite band, The Temper Trap!  Talk about an unexpected Sunday night opportunity and a tremendous show, at that. If you get the chance, the group’s new album, “Thick As Thieves,” adds a dash of blistering Southern rock influence to their impressive discography (hearing “Sweet Disposition” live was an absolute treat for a Sunday night!).

That led into another unexpected, last-second opportunity — you haven’t lived until you’ve scrambled to snag a ticket on StubHub for Bastille, the extraordinary pop-rock band who blew up the airwaves with “Pompeii” three years ago. It was a very rare treat to see them play at the Music Hall of Williamsburg, one of my favorite venues in New York City, as part of a special mini-tour preceding a truly global effort in support of their excellent second album, “Wild World.” It was made all the more special by the small crowd (see this video as an example!) and the fact that they played nearly all the way through the new album — soon-to-be hits like “Blame” and “Power” are truly live standouts! Catch them on tour if you get the chance (nudge, nudge). Of course, I took it all in stride dressed for a rock concert. It’s a privilege to be able to catch so many great shows multiple nights a week, especially here in the Big Apple! Please go see Bastille if you get the chance — you won’t regret it! And as to the rest of the week, well, we’ll just have to catch up on all things menswear below. It’s bound to be just as busy of a weekend, as I’m hosting my family up from Florida — look for a full personal style blog post coming on Monday!

  • So, get this — National Sneaker Day is coming up on October 9th (who knew?) and the folks at Brooks Heritage want to set you up right, namely with an array of colorful, classic silhouettes that they’ve perfected through the decades. Having checked out a pair of the brand’s Chariot Heritage sneakers, I can vouch for their comfort and quality! See how to style them (for warmer weather, admittedly) in this personal style blog post.
  • Speaking of National Sneaker Day — have you caught wind of the stellar made-in-America partnership between New Balance and Danner? The two brands have teamed up on the American Pioneer Project, one part domestic manufacturing effort and major parts stellar menswear collaboration. First up — the made-in-Maine Danner x New Balance 585, a heck of a premium sneaker made from Horween leather, featuring the kind of silhouette you can wear easily with a blazer and dark blue denim. And thereafter — the Danner Light x New Balance Boot, a hybrid hiking boot featuring New Balance’s signature color palette and a neat blend of materials (we’re talking Horween leather, Cordura mesh and grey suede, to start). Shop ’em now, wear ’em all season!

  • Although a stylish cardigan is a fall menswear must-have, it’s just as essential to have a closet stocked with other sharp sweaters — like these Jamieson’s of Shetland Crew Knits as covered by Well-Spent this week.
  • We all love a rugged Western shirt (like the one seen in this #OOTD), right? Well, GQ covered an especially expensive iteration this week — oh, boy.
  • In need of a new briefcase? Give THE WINGCASE a try — the brand just launched a Kickstarter funding effort for what they’re calling “the smartest briefcase in the world,” complete with a built-in charger and two-in-one functionality via removable compartments. It’s funding quickly, so get on it while it lasts!

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Oh, and one last thing — if you need a durable, heritage-quality leather jacket, check out this week’s #OOTD covering a great option from U.S. Authentic, a brand that’s new to the scene but doing things the right way when it comes to stylish outerwear.

That’s all for this week — keep up with this weekend’s menswear looks via Instagram, and in the meantime — stay stylish,

-Beau

by Beau H.

Online Shopping Picks: The Best Men’s Cardigans for Cold Weather

Editor’s note: Click through for a full set of menswear shopping picks.

In recent weeks, things have really picked up in terms of fall style preparations in my neck of the woods — if you’re into menswear, that probably means it’s been much the same for you. A late September weekend in New York City really brought with it the first slight hints of fall, and slight seasonal changes should remind us of all of gear we need for the chillier months ahead. In the case of today’s latest Online Shopping Picks post, that means we’re talking about a valuable sweater style to keep on-hand — and wear plenty — during fall and winter. What’s that style, you ask? It’s the ever-versatile modern man’s sweater — the cardigan. Whether cut in soft cotton-cashmere or premium merino, or with a more substantial shawl collar, a stylish cardigan is a nice hybrid style that fits in seamlessly with more tailored or more casual looks. Want to go more dressed up? Throw on a slim cotton-cashmere cardigan in place of your blazer with a wool tie and crisp dress shirt. Want to stay casual? Take that same cardigan and pair it with a long-sleeve henley and a durable, essential pair of sturdy selvedge denim for your off-duty hours. The picks below come in at price points low and high, and feature style that’s minimal and tailored — as well as casual and rugged. If you haven’t bought a cardigan for fall and winter, consider this the perfect starting point.

#1. JackThreads Fair Isle Cardigan — $79

A neutral base livened up with a visually interesting Fair Isle pattern.

A neutral base livened up with a visually interesting Fair Isle pattern.

Quick, what brand makes all manner of essential goods for every season? At nice, low prices? It’s JackThreads — and this cardigan is a big-time winner in that regard. The brand keeps taking steps forward as far as its products go — pieces like this Fair Isle cardigan nod toward trends without being too over-the-top. The fabric quality and fit should be reliable and modern, and the tan base should help it play nicely off navy chinos or grey flannel trousers — yes, it’s almost flannel season!

#2. J. Crew Cotton-Cashmere Cardigan Sweater — $74.50

Nothing too fancy about this sweater -- but with fabric this nice, it doesn't need to overdo it.

Nothing too fancy about this sweater — but with fabric this nice, it doesn’t need to overdo it.

Like JackThreads, J. Crew consistently comes up with fresh takes on wardrobe staples no matter the season. Although some of those creations can lean quite expensive, this cotton-cashmere cardigan is the definition of an everyday sweater at a low price. If you keep a weather eye out for sales and deals, you could snag it even cheaper. As it stands now though, a slim burgundy cardigan from a reputable brand is something every guy can put to good use. Team up this cardigan with a blue Oxford, slim tan chinos and high-top sneakers for a bit of sporty, retro style.

#3. Grayers Shore Club Cotton Cardigan in Navy Heather — $93.75

A cotton cardigan can still work in the fall -- just pair with a slim henley and cold-weather accessories.

A cotton cardigan can still work in the fall — just pair with a slim henley and cold-weather accessories.

Have you had your fill yet of navy sweaters? Hope not. Grayers’ fabric quality is top-notch (which explains the Grayers x SeaVees sneaker collab), and that’s the case with this easygoing navy heather cardigan. With details like a chest pocket and dual hip pockets, plus that heathered fabric, it’s going to wear easily over a slub pocket T-shirt with olive chinos and a pair of durable moc toe boots — like the ones seen in this #OOTD. It’s the perfect cardigan for weekend coffee runs — and you’ll be the sharpest guy in the place.

#4. Todd Snyder Shawl Cardigan — $157.50 (Available via East Dane)

If you're not a Todd Snyder fan, get on board -- this cardigan is but one example of his excellent work.

If you’re not a Todd Snyder fan, get on board — this cardigan is but one example of his excellent work.

It’s tough not to be a huge fan of what Mr. Snyder has done for casual, rugged menswear — right? The designer’s collaborations — from the Timex x Todd Snyder partnership to his work on P.F. Flyers sneakers — merge menswear’s past with modern fits, a dash of Americana and all-around terrific style. So, it should come as no surprise that his knitwear knocks it out of the park. A midweight jersey fabric is complemented by a faded indigo wash — that combo means it’ll stand out stylishly even up against dark blue denim. And while you could style it with an essential chambray shirt and tan chinos, it’s going to be at its best with a vintage team T-shirt during your next football game.

#5. Rag & Bone Standard Issue Avery Shawl Cardigan — $275 (Available via East Dane)

A strong silhouette, neutral color and luxury fabric make this cardigan worth the investment.

A strong silhouette, neutral color and luxury fabric make this cardigan worth the investment.

Did you think we’d make it out of this post without at least one eye-popping splurge? Not a chance. Some of us aren’t necessarily into brands that skew more heavily toward minimal high fashion — Rag & Bone is one such brand, yet they always temper that approach with military styling, classic colors and beautiful fabrics. This navy knit shawl cardigan has a lot going on visually — the shawl collar, front hip patch pockets and textured fabric — but it’s done so in a pleasing way (with a strong silhouette to boot). When teamed with a red plaid shirt, you’re getting a look that’s heritage-inspired and fall-appropriate without going too far overboard.

With any of the above cardigans, you’re checking some key fall #menswear criteria — 1) Warmth and solid layering potential. 2) Visual interest — in the form of a shawl collar or a slim dress cardigan. 3) Plenty of styling versatility — crucial when you want to switch things up from a stylish fall or winter blazer. And while some of the above price points stray upward a bit, it’s worth it to make an investment now — especially when you can wear a nice cardigan all through winter (even the Grayers cotton cardigan can be layered under a winter topcoat when snow hits). If you suspect you might get funny looks or comparisons to everyone’s favorite neighbor, rest assured that the cardigan is a modern style move — take the plunge, y’all! If you have suggestions for other stylish men’s cardigans, check out The Style Guide on Facebook.

by Beau H.

#OOTD: The Best Way to Wear a Field Jacket 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.

First of all, is this the absolute best way to wear a field jacket? Ehh, debatable. But we can sure as heck try. Last week on everyone’s favorite menswear blog — uhh, that would be this one — we talked about how to wear a bomber jacket for fall. It’s a classic style that’s undergone a high-fashion resurgence — rest assured, it’s still easily adaptable for us regular fellas. In a similar fashion, we’re talking today about how to wear a field jacket. It’s another style with roots in real-life military action that’s seen a resurgence. All kinds of designers have been looking to the past for rugged inspiration, functionality and all-around good looks — and that’s not a bad thing at all. You really can’t go wrong with a tough field jacket  — the silhouette is classic and hard-wearing. In today’s menswear world, it’s also a suitable blazer replacement, as it’s lightweight enough to wear indoors. That versatility is nearly unmatched in the outerwear realm. And the field jacket you’ll see below certainly incorporates quite a bit of functionality — plus, a silhouette that’s just a tad more modern than field jackets of days gone by. The pieces that complement it are similarly modern … yet also heritage-inspired. Trust me, this will all make sense when you see the #OOTD below. For a daily look at more unbelievable #menswear (wink, wink), head on through to Instagram or Twitter.

A modern take on the field jacket, finished off with classic, rugged style essentials like wingtip boots and a Western shirt.

A modern take on the field jacket, finished off with classic, rugged style essentials like wingtip boots and a Western shirt.

The Field Jacket: Banana Republic Military Field Jacket, $129.99 — While you could stick with a rugged cotton-canvas field jacket, this cotton-nylon blend should move better and look a bit more modern thanks to the absence of front flap pockets at the hips. It’s a field jacket built more for the city and less for the … well, field.

The Shirt: Buck Mason Tan Cowboy Pearl Snap Shirt, $145 — Lest you worry that we lost all rugged appeal by ditching a more traditional field jacket silhouette, rest assured that this Cowboy Pearl Snap Shirt packs masculine style in spades. It’s the type of shirt your grandpa would’ve been proud to wear –and that’s a very good thing.

The Denim: Baldwin Denim The Henley Slim Selvedge Jeans, $220 (Get more Baldwin denim via East Dane) — What better way to complement a tough Western shirt and a navy field jacket than with essential selvedge denim? It’s a tough combo to top, but we’ll try our best with the rest of this ensemble.

The Boots: Johnston & Murphy Greer Wingtip Boot, $198 — It’s very nearly boot season, and if you haven’t developed a fall wish list yet, get these boots on there. I’ve tested out this particular pair of Johnston & Murphy boots over the past few weeks, and they’re worth every penny — rugged, refined and comfortable as can be.

The Socks: American Trench Superfine Merino Herringbone Socks, $27.98 — Need a reason to splurge on socks? American Trench has you covered — read more on the brand here, while you’re at it.

The Watch: Jack Mason JM-F103-001 Field Automatic Watch, $515 — That price is bound to make your eyes pop a little bit — however, know that you’re getting in on the ground floor (relatively speaking) of a watch company that’s producing essential, rugged styles with a strong American design influence.

The Belt: Maximum Henry Slim Standard Belt, $100 (Get more Maximum Henry belts via East Dane) — Does $100 seem like a lot for a belt? Sure does. But know that you’re supporting a one-man operation — on my menswear honor, I’ve met Henry(of Maximum Henry fame, of course) and seen the work he does; it’s a sight to behold!
The Everyday Carry: Bull & Stash The Stash Notebook (5.5″x 9″), $55 — Bull & Stash popped up in our recent #OOTD on how to wear a bomber jacket, and they’re back here because everyone can use a durable notebook built to last a lifetime.
Huckberry
When you step back and look at this #OOTD, what at first might have seemed a bit too rugged is tempered by the fact that it’s made of well-fitting, timeless gear. From the sturdy-as-heck Western shirt to the selvedge denim, we’re looking at pieces that have masculine, classic edge — a combination that’s toned down by the technical fabric and modern cut of the navy field jacket. In terms of what’s on your feet, it’s tough not to love a durable pair of leather boots and comfortable, American-made socks. And while the watch featured in this outfit is pricey, it’s the kind of timepiece that you could certainly dress up with a slim fall blazer — once you hang up your field jacket, that is. Do you have suggestions on how to improve or change this outfit at all? Leave a comment on The Style Guide Facebook page (it needs some love).
In the meantime — up your field jacket game and stay stylish,
-Beau

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by Beau H.

Fall 2016 Style Wish List

Editor’s note: For other seasonal style wish lists, click here.

Can you believe it’s (nearly) here already? Fall? Me neither. As always seems to come up with these seasonal style wish list posts, it feels as if I just sat down to write the last one — did you manage to pick up everything from your spring style wish list, while we’re at it? Making what can feel like the rather abrupt transition from style built for the heat of summer to style geared toward cooler climes is a luxury for some of us, but it can be just as much of a struggle if you’re looking to add transitional pieces to your wardrobe. And of course, it might still be a bit warm in your area. But fall is coming, and we’ll get to that in the coming weeks. For now, we’re still in Wish List mode here at The Style Guide. So, the below pieces are picked (sometimes) with budget in mind, but they more likely represent the best of fall style out there — according to this #menswear editor, that is. That means we’re looking for pieces that more often than not exude rugged, versatile and exemplary fall style — it’s a time for crisp breezes, crunching leaves, walks in the park, some football-viewing and beer-drinking … it’s, in short, the most wonderful time of the year (wink, wink). Don’t believe me? Read on for the below Style Wish List picks, and follow along on Instagram for more transitional style inspiration — you won’t be let down, promise!

#1. Flint & Tinder Flannel-Lined Waxed Trucker Jacket — $198

A durable new piece of outerwear that's built for darn-near anything.

A durable new piece of outerwear that’s built for darn-near anything.

Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls — step right up, because the good folks at Flint & Tinder have done it again with this stunning waxed trucker jacket. The makers of your favorite domestically produced boxer briefs and a stupendously great hoodie have really outdone themselves this time with a beautiful piece of outerwear that’s practically tailor made for fall. The Whiskey color is rich and should look great with dark denim and a rugged henley, and the herringbone flannel lining should keep you nice and warm through all sorts of fall festivities. Feel free to rock this guy into winter, too — the Martexin 7oz. waxed sail cloth can handle a little inclement weather.

#2. Todd Shelton Classic White Oxford — $200

The ideal Oxford to offset the ideal fall jacket -- right?

The ideal Oxford to offset the ideal fall jacket — right?

This Oxford shirt right here is another Wish List-worthy piece, if only based on price alone. Every guy needs an essential Oxford shirt in his closet — we’re talking one that pairs with everything from chinos and crisp white sneakers in the summer to that durable waxed trucker jacket in the fall. Well, this Oxford fits that bill beautifully. It’s made from a substantial but breathable 100/2 ply cotton (that’s two fine yarns twisted together), and the made-in-America construction and customizable fit are huge bonuses to a piece that’s investment-worthy in every sense of the word. It’s a great piece year-round, but it would add an extra touch of crisp refinement to your favorite fall style essentials, like a shawl cardigan and sturdy dark denim.

#3. Johnston & Murphy Eldredge Wingtip Boot — $275

Italian-made leather wingtip boots that you won't want to take off? Sign me up.

Italian-made leather wingtip boots that you won’t want to take off? Sign me up.

From my recent travels to Michigan to  a Labor Day weekend in Asbury Park, Johnston & Murphy has certainly won over this style writer for blending comfort, quality and affordability. With that spirit in mind, it’s easy to see why a dependable, durable-looking and just plain handsome pair of wingtip boots makes the cut on this list.  Handcrafted in Italy, these tan calfskin leather boots are the ideal mix of rugged and refined, able to add a bit of flair to faded grey denim or a pair of slim wool trousers — try out either combination from one day to the next if you don’t believe me.  Oh, and don’t forget stylish socks that add a bit of color and comfort, will ya?

#4. Flint & Tinder Marled Long-Sleeve Henley — $62

The answer to your search for the perfect fall henley, made right here in America.

The answer to your search for the perfect fall henley, made right here in America.

Yet another piece from Flint & Tinder on this list? Believe me, the brand’s new fall collection really is that on-point. We here at The Style Guide (ahem *just me*) love a rugged henley, and it looks as if the newest addition to the Flint & Tinder line takes the cake in terms of the designated henley spot on this year’s Fall Style Wish List (only partially kidding). While it’s also available in versatile colors like Navy and Olive, you really can’t go wrong with  a classic white henley. It’s another made-in-America piece that’s going to have you covered for all sorts of style situations, particularly including pairing with a certain tough trucker jacket (can you see a theme here?). Of course, it’ll also set you right for layering under everything from a wool blazer at the office to a navy field jacket at your next rock concert.

#5. M.Gemi Netto Leather Sneakers — $228

Low-top leather sneakers in the fall? If you know how to style them, yes indeed.

Low-top leather sneakers in the fall? If you know how to style them, yes indeed.

Yes, we’re going with another pair of footwear to round out this list (although it was mighty hard to narrow it down to just five!). These sneakers are certainly a worthy Wish List — or wait list — addition, as they’ve sold pretty quickly (that seems to make them even more covetable, however). A pair of rich brown leather sneakers is a pretty underrated style accessory in fall — it’s still sneaker weather, even if at first it might not seem like it. The color of this particular pair makes them as versatile as leather chukka boots — style them with a white Oxford and navy chinos for a high-low office look, or pair them up with a crewneck sweater (and yes, even that waxed trucker jacket) for a dash of slightly dressy weekend style. What are you waiting for? Hop on them before they sell out!

Buck Mason - Timeless Design. Made in America.

Are you fully on-board with the above Fall Style Wish List picks? I certainly hope so. There’s plenty more fall style-centric content to come in the weeks ahead, particularly focused on pieces you’ll love to wear, like leather chukka boots, slim henleys and yes, a trucker jacket or two. If tackling the changing seasons at first feels daunting, look for investment-worthy pieces you can wear across all seven days of the week — dependable boots and a crisp white Oxford should certainly be on your shopping list if you don’t have ’em already, and a reliable long-sleeve henley is a must-buy (at least in the mind of this author). Everyone should splurge — truly — on a staple piece of outerwear that you can wear all season long, and that waxed trucker jacket is Exhibit A. Heck, the longer it takes me to write this post, the more ready for fall I get. If you’re in the same boat, or if you feel I missed any fall style picks, give me a shout on Twitter.