The List: Here’s the Best New Menswear to Buy Right Now

Just the kind of trusty fall layer you’re going to want to throw on for weekend after weekend this fall. Read on for more.

Can you feel the weather starting to turn ever so slightly? If only by a few degrees? That’s where today’s fall style essentials are going to come in mighty handy, my friends. It’s perhaps the best season for menswear, as I always say, for a distinct reason. Think rich colors and textures, plus plenty of layering potential. Hence, the Jungmaven Baja Long-Sleeve Pocket Tee you see at the top of the page. It’s but one of the many transitional style essentials you’ll love wearing. Read on for more in this week’s edition of The List, and stop by The Style Guide Facebook page for plenty more.

Jungmaven Baja Long-Sleeve Pocket Tee — $49.98

This tee has the potential to be a new favorite layer.

We should all be thinking about essential fall layers, the type of casual long-sleeve shirt that you can wear on its own or beneath a shirt-jacket or your favorite chambray shirt. Thus, I give you the Jungmaven Baja Long-Sleeve Pocket Tee.

Ursa Major Traveler Kit — $41

Dependable essentials for the road, at an affordable price.

Let’s kick things off with some men’s grooming essentials — staying sharp and keeping your skin refreshed on the road is crucial, and the Ursa Major Traveler Kit is the way to go.
Old Navy Slim-Fit Chambray Shirt — $36.99

A classic chambray shirt from an affordable brand.

A slim and stylish chambray shirt for under $40? Old Navy has outdone themselves heading into fall. Wear this with everything from dark denim and black high-tops to canvas work pants and your favorite leather boots (Side note: Head here for more ideas on how to wear a chambray shirt this fall!).
Converse Chuck Taylor All-Star High-Tops — $55

An icon of menswear, and perhaps the perfect sneakers to wear to head into early fall.

Speaking of black high-tops … stick with the best from a legendary brand. Wearable with everything from dark denim and a classic Oxford shirt to an easygoing white slub tee and skinny black jeans at your next rock concert.
North & Mark Bryant Jacket — $189.98

The ideal merger of style and function in terms of an excellent fall jacket. Nothing else to it.

Looking for a stylish fall jacket that’ll function nicely no matter the weather? The North and Mark Bryant Jacket is potentially your new favorite jacket, wearable with fall style essentials like a crisp white Oxford shirt and tan chinos.

Old Navy Shawl-Collar Cardigan — $31.50

A cozy and timeless cardigan to wear every fall weekend.

Again, more men’s style essentials from Old Navy at outrageously great prices? Wear this classic cardigan with dark indigo denim, stylish suede chukka boots and a rugged henley.
Marathon Search and Rescue Medium Diver — $764.98

Durable, rugged, adventure-ready — that’s this timepiece for ya.

We’ve covered plenty of apparel so far in today’s edition of The List, but what if you’re on the hunt for a rugged casual watch to wear on day trips or as you pack for your next camping trip? The Marathon Medium Diver is it.
Hudson Shoes Hatchard Suede Shoes — $175

Low-key, well-crafted and perfect for fall.

Want a pair of casual chukka boots to wear with your favorite pair of jeans and a trusty long-sleeve henley this fall season? Hudson Shoes has you covered with the comfortable, durable Hatchard Suede Shoes.
Finisterre Upton Trouser — $49.98

You’re going to need some tough, hard-wearing pants for fall — like these ones from Finisterre.

The Upton Trousers from Finisterre strike the right balance between rugged and versatile, perfect for plenty of fall adventures (think a farmer’s market trip followed by a park hike followed by beers  — sounds good, right?).

Astorflex Greenflex in Dark Khaki — $133.98

Perhaps the best chukka boots you’ll buy this season.

It seems I recommend classic chukka boots from Astorflex on the regular — and I find myself wearing my own pair plenty — but there’s a darn good reason for that. They’re stylish, they’re low-key, they go with everything … the list goes on! See for yourself (wink, wink).

That’s going to bring the curtain down on this week’s edition of The List — which of the above picks are going in your shopping cart? I’m all about the North and Mark Bryant Jacket, a perfectly versatile, casual fall jacket. Thanks for reading!

 

Style Pick of the Week: Vulcanizer Work Oxford High-Top Sneakers

Your next pair of fall sneakers … or are they boots?

Not yet familiar with the Vulcanizer brand? Well, my friends — let’s change all of that today as we talk men’s style essentials and get you well-acquainted with the next entry in our always-rugged, ever-fashionable Style Pick of the Week series. The subject of today’s post? The Vulcanizer Work Oxford High-Top Sneakers, a boot-sneaker hybrid that looks as tough and stylish as your favorite pair of leather boots … while simultaneously existing in the realm of the best men’s high-top sneakers. Don’t believe me? Read on.  Japanese brand Vulcanizer is a new addition to the lineup over at Huckberry, a site that knows a thing or two about curating menswear essentials. It’s really no surprise, then, that the Vulcanizer Work Oxford High-Top Sneakers are unique, versatile and rugged — all at once.

It’s gotta start with the classic moc toe construction and vulcanized sole, two touches that surely make the Vulcanizer Work Oxford High-Top Sneakers a seriously ready-made addition to your list of fall style essentials, if ever I’ve seen one. The cotton canvas upper is also water-resistant, a key feature that ought to come in mighty handy whether you keep it simple (classic dark denim and a grey crewneck sweater) or a little more stylish (a white Oxford and khaki chinos at the office).  Either way, the Vulcanizer Work Oxford High-Top Sneakers are going to hold up — to say the least.

SHOP: Vulcanizer Work Oxford High-Top Sneakers via Huckberry

A classic pair of high-top sneakers with the look of a pair of durable boots — a fall style favorite, surely.

Make no bones about it,  Vulcanizer has certainly taken their time with the Work High Oxford — designed in Japan and made in Romania, you  just don’t see sneakers nowadays like the Vulcanizer Work Oxford High-Top Sneakers and everything they’ve got going for ’em. Available in three colorways (I like the Brown Work High Oxford the best), these sneakers are durable enough to wear on a light day hike along with a waxed trucker jacket and tough work pants, yet stylish enough to wear to your favorite bar alongside casual style staples like a rugged denim jacket and a classic chambray shirt for the season. The Vulcanizer Work Oxford High-Top Sneakers are also a steal in terms of price, clocking in at under $150. That price for a pair of durable sneakers that wear like boots? Sounds just great to me. The moc toe construction is also cool and classic, simply perfect for fall. You should certainly shoot to wear the Vulcanizer Work Oxford High-Top Sneakers to your next football tailgate or brewery visit — they’ve got that rugged sensibility that’ll fit right in alongside dark indigo denim and a rugged long-sleeve henley So, how’s that sound for your next fall footwear purchase? Easy enough, right? 

SHOP: Vulcanizer Work Oxford High-Top Sneakers via Huckberry

See Now, Buy Now: The Jungmaven Baja Long-Sleeve Tee Is Your New Go-To Fall Layer

A long-sleeve tee made with terrific fabric, cool styling details and a VERY affordable price.

It’s about time you got around to revamping your wardrobe for a new season – that means your focus should be squarely on fall style essentials that can take you from good to great-looking in no time at all. Namely, that means you should be layering up with the Jungmaven Baja Tee just as soon as you can. There’s a reason why a stylish long-sleeve tee is worthy of adding to your wardrobe — for one thing, even the most casual ensembles start with a great base layer like the Jungmaven Baja Tee.  Made from midweight cotton right here in America, the Baja Tee just … wins and wins. Whether you’re throwing on the Baja Tee under a garment-dyed Oxford shirt or a classic chambray shirt, it’s crucial you start with the best; simply any old long-sleeve tee won’t quite do. And when you want a rugged long-sleeve shirt to wear with, say, a flannel-lined trucker jacket, you want one that’s crafted with care and great design — in short, a long-sleeve tee that’s worthy of layering up with your favorite fall outerwear.

Plus, the Jungmaven Baja Tee has plenty going in its own right if you’re simply looking for a casual (yet stylish!) long-sleeve tee to throw on all by itself with tailored weekend sweatpants. To start, let’s talk price. The Baja Tee retails right now for under $50, and comes in a slew of versatile colors, including Navy and Supply Green. In short, that means the Baja Tee can work with everything from grey chinos and a denim jacket (the Supply Green Tee) to slim tan chinos, Horween leather sneakers and a grey workshirt (that’s the best bet for the Navy Baja Tee). What’s more, the Jungmaven Baja Tee is garment-dyed for a lived-in feel and extra softness — crucial for throwing on during lazy weekend days. And if you simply can’t get enough of this stylish long-sleeve tee? Feel free to wear it underneath a tan herringbone blazer — just accent it with crisp dark denim and rugged brown leather boots at the office. Never heard of a long-sleeve tee that could do that, did you now?

Let’s talk shop — are you into the Jungmaven Baja Tee? How would you style it? Let me know via Twitter

#OOTD: Wear This Rugged Gear to Get Ready for Early Fall

Just as quickly as we were recommending how to wear your favorite summer T-shirt, we’re now recommending the men’s style essentials to get you ready for early fall. Today’s #OOTD takes a decidedly casual turn, focused on versatile pieces that can tackle fall weekend travel, an outdoor farmer’s market, a beer festival … you name it, I’m sure the below menswear essentials are going to work for you in some way, shape or form. From a classic grey crewneck sweatshirt to an equally classic men’s denim shirt, the building blocks shown here are perfect if you want to up your game ever so slightly without veering too far into formal territory. And if you’re just looking for something relatively easy to throw on the morning after a few too many IPAs, fear not — we’ve got you covered with stretch blue denim and rugged leather boots from Red Wing Heritage.  Throw on a stylish field watch (and more choice accessories as seen below), and I’d say you’re pretty much set for early fall. Whaddya say now? Ready to welcome the new season? Let’s step into it in style — cheers.

Rugged-yet-classic shirting, a grey crewneck sweater and more #menswear favorites for your early fall pursuits.

  • The Shirt: Taylor Stitch Jack Shirt in Sun Bleached Denim, $98 — There’s something about a classic denim shirt like the Taylor Stitch Jack Shirt that allows it to work season after season — that’s certainly the case here.
  • The Sweatshirt: Myles Apparel Elements Crew, $78  — Made with performance fabric, the Myles Apparel Elements Crew manages to nail the tricky balance between comfort and style — a classic men’s sweatshirt for early fall.
  • The Denim: Roark Revival 12.5oz. Stretch Travel Denim, $67.98 — Whether you wear the Stretch Travel Denim from Roark Revival for actuall fall travel or a lazy early fall weekend, you’ll look just great doing it.
  • The Stylish Leather BootsRed Wing Iron Ranger Boots in Hawthorne, $315 — As durable and investment-ready a pair of timeless boots as you’re apt to find, the Red Wing Iron Ranger Boots are perhaps the perfect men’s boots for fall. It’s that simple.
  • The Belt: Levi’s Contrast Stitch Belt, $26.99 — Never, ever sleep on your accessories — take it from me! The Levi’s Contrast Stitch Belt fits in with the rugged vibe of this ensemble.
  • The Durable Field WatchHemel Tracker Watch, $340 — A outfit with some hearty, hard-wearing pieces deserves a stylish casual watch — with its blend of bold style and durability, the Hemel Tracker Watch works.
  • The Wallet: Wingback London Cash Wallet, $59 — Whether you’re opening up a tab at your favorite brewery or grabbing a casual dinner with your partner, you need a wallet that’s as stylish as you are — seriously.
  • The Stylish SocksCHUP Niyol Socks, $35 — Add some pop — and comfort, and warmth — to your early fall outfit with the subtly stylish CHUP Niyol Socks.
  • The Weekened Essential: GrowlerWerks uPint, $28 — Hey, we said this outfit could work nearly anywhere — particularly if you’re sipping on a pint of your favorite craft beer. This pint glass looks great and keeps your beer cold.
  • The Grooming Essential: House99 Truly Brighter Eye Balm, $30 — Particularly if you enjoyed a pint or two too many, refreshing your tired eyes is critical — and it’s never been easier than with this essential eye balm from Mr. David Beckham’s new line.

Building an #OOTD for a casual situation can actually be surprisingly tricky — that’s why it’s best to start from the ground up with timeless, seasonally friendly picks that can go the distance, like rugged leather boots from Red Wing Heritage. Add in other easy-to-wear pieces — staples like the Taylor Stitch Jack Shirt and the Myles Apparel Elements Crew — and you’re looking at the makings of an outfit that fits in at Saturday night happy hour or Sunday brunch easily. Comfortable early fall menswear moves such as the Stretch Travel Denim from Roark Revival make it easy to move around and get where you’re going (even if that happens to be your local coffee shop).

I’m also a huge proponent of wearing durable accessories that you can readily mix and match, like the Hemel Tracker Watch and the tough Levi’s Contrast Stitch Belt — both everyday carry essentials that can be used with a host of other fall style ensembles. Focusing on comfort merged with style is also going to yield you some favorable returns, hence the use of the striking CHUP Niyol Socks here. For raising a glass in style (or offering a neat gift to a weekend host), something like the GrowlerWerks uPint is also going to make a lasting impression.  Top off your look with a handy grooming essential from House99, and you’re set to take on the new season in style — to say the very least!

That’s all I’ve got for ya today. Thanks for reading!

-Beau

Style Pick of the Week: Flint and Tinder Stonewashed Jeans

Flint and Tinder

Possibly a new daily style staple.

Don’t get it twisted: There’s a good chance the Flint and Tinder Stonewashed Jeans could become your new favorite pair of denim this fall — and certainly, well beyond that. Here we are on the first day of September, and that means it’s probably time to take a good, long look at the fall style essentials you have, and the ones you need. That is to say, a great pair of everyday denim from go-to Style Guide favorites Flint and Tinder belongs on the list. The in-house brand of our good friends at Huckberry continues to deliver on classic style essentials made (in the States!) with durability and rugged style in mind. That runs all the way from shirting to underwear to the Stonewashed Jeans you see here. I’m a big fan of the similarly constructed Flint and Tinder All-American Jeans, and the Stonewashed Jeans apply that same ethos to a fall-friendly wash. As much as I love a good pair of inky denim, it’s pleasing and fun to see a more casual-leaning pair of classic men’s jeans make their way into your rotation.

SHOP: The Flint and Tinder Stonewashed Jeans via Huckberry

Turn up the cuffs and show off the details.

You can wear ’em exactly like you’d wear your favorite pair of rich blue denim, but in a more laidback fashion (think a thermal henley, a heather grey cardigan and casual brown leather boots, to start). The Flint and Tinder Stonewashed Jeans have all the styling potential you could want this fall, and they’ll pair up just fine with every shirt in your arsenal, from flannel shirting to a classic chambray shirt or a casual long-sleeve shirt. After all, they’re just jeans, right? Not quite. What makes the Flint and Tinder Stonewashed Jeans so different? It’s easy. We’re talking a blend of cotton and stretch for crucial comfort. The slim fit (although they’re also available in Straight fit) is tapered and lean but not too tight, making them an easy match with suede Chelsea boots or leather lace-up boots … or perhaps a pair of stylish leather brogues. And although it might not seem like it, it’s surprisingly easy to incorporate the Flint and Tinder Stonewashed Jeans into work week looks — they’ll even complement a navy cotton blazer and a blue Oxford shirt at the office. The key is the unique stone wash, which gives these stylish jeans some character. So, to recap: An agreeable fit, made-in-America construction and a casual finish that’s also surprisingly easy to wear? Yessir, the Flint and Tinder Stonewashed Jeans are a big-time fall winner.

SHOP: The Flint and Tinder Stonewashed Jeans via Huckberry

Style Pick of the Week: Knickerbocker Mfg. Co. Long-Sleeve Henley

The tough henley to wear through early fall — on its own, or else layered up accordingly.

It’s never too early to think ahead when it comes to men’s style essentials, and thus, I humbly submit that the rugged Knickerbocker Mfg. Co. Long-Sleeve Henley should certainly be on your shopping list — yes, even in mid-August.  Made in Los Angeles from 100 percent 5oz. cotton, this rugged men’s henley is the secret style weapon you didn’t know you needed for the season ahead. Or perhaps, if you read The Style Guide regularly, you already knew that you needed a stylish henley in your rotation … and yet, didn’t know where to get one. Folks, Knickerbocker Mfg. Co. is here to help. We’ve talked about the importance of a short-sleeve henley when it comes to rugged style in the depths of summer, and a tough long-sleeve henley like the one shown here does the exact thing as we look ahead to fall. What’s so great about the Knickerbocker Mfg. Co. Long-Sleeve Henley? Well, as we all know when it comes to menswear essentials, the simple things are sometimes the best. Take the tube knitting — that’s unique among henleys, meaning there’s no side seam here, only quality, durable cotton.  Yes, this is one stylish henley that’s made the right way.

Priced right at $64.98 — a darn good deal for a USA-made product — the Knickerbocker Mfg. Co. Long-Sleeve Henley is a new menswear classic in every sense of the word, from the closely cut construction (ideal for layering) to the use of mother-of-pearl buttons on the placket. That gives the Knickerbocker Mfg. Co. Long-Sleeve Henley a decidedly more dressy feel — it’s still quite casual, but you shouldn’t feel out of place wearing this slim long-sleeve henley with dark denim, rugged leather boots and a charcoal herringbone blazer as temperatures start to drop.  You can even make great use of the Knickerbocker Mfg. Co. Long-Sleeve Henley right now — it’s a natural pairing on its own with faded light wash denim, plus some lightweight leather boots. The great thing about a henley is the sort of rugged style appeal it gives even the most basic of outfits — in short, it’s a tough menswear staple that belongs in your rotation in the months ahead. Heck, you can — and should — get the Knickerbocker Mfg. Co. Long-Sleeve Henley as much air  time as possible. Take it for a spin with classic dark tan chinos and your favorite pair of high-top sneakers to head to your local bar this weekend. Yessir, the Knickerbocker Mfg. Co. Long-Sleeve Henley  is as good as it gets — and then some.

Are you down with the durability and timeless style of the  Knickerbocker Mfg. Co. Long-Sleeve Henley? Give me a shout on Twitter if you agree! 

#OOTD: How to Wear Chelsea Boots for Fall and Winter Weather

Ahh, yes — we’re back for another #OOTD here on The Style Guide, and here’s the even better news: We’re really digging into tailored menswear for colder weather. You’re going to love it, or your money back. Stylish men’s Chelsea boots are an essential that shouldn’t be slept on, even if you haven’t yet shopped around for the perfect pair yet.  They’re a style of shoe that’s at once sleek and refined, yet edgy — there’s a reason rock stars love these boots. Now, we’ve previously talked the best pair of Chelsea boots to buy for fall, and we’re upping the ante a bit here today. The Hudson Shoes Wynford Chelsea Boots are just the ticket, and they’re potentially among the best men’s Chelsea boots. Specifically, we’re looking at how you can wear your new favorite Chelsea boots with a bit of tailored edge. So, think a stylish cardigan, slim wool trousers and of course,  a classic dress watch. You’re going to recognize plenty of other winter style essentials in this #menswear look, too — from an American-made cashmere scarf to surprisingly stylish men’s socks. If that all sounds great to you, then read on. Let me know your feedback in the comments, and I’m always up to chat on Twitter! Talk soon.

Sleek Chelsea boots done up in refined, sharp fashion. Perfect for fall and winter, no?

The Chelsea Boots: Hudson Shoes Wynford Chelsea Boots, $230 — Here’s the centerpiece of this outfit — a pair of stylish, sleek Chelsea boots. Crafted from rich, dark brown leather and featuring no-frills styling potential, the Wynford Chelsea Boots from Hudson Shoes couldn’t have come into your wardrobe at a better time.

The Cardigan: Mollusk Surf Shop Jeffrey Sweater in Cloud Grey, $180 — What better way to offset a pair of refined Chelsea boots than with a slightly rugged, stylish shawl collar cardigan? This is the kind of classic cardigan that a fella like James Bond might wear.

The Shirt: Corridor NYC Check Flannel Shirt, $159.98 — Quite simply, Corridor NYC makes astonishingly beautiful, classic shirting right here in NYC — the Check Flannel Shirt is a nicely tailored, dressy complement to this ensemble (and it features a winter-friendly wool blend).

The Trousers: Taylor Stitch Telegraph Trousers in Navy Donegal, $178 — While you can really wear your favorite Chelsea boots any way you want, slim wool trousers — especially the handsome Telegraph Trousers from Taylor Stitch — are a perfectly tailored move.

The Scarf: American Trench Cashmere Scarf in Red Flecked, $180 — Although you could certainly throw on a slim topcoat to finish off this outfit, a cashmere scarf from American Trench is a cool way to layer up in style while adding visual interest to a classic shawl collar cardigan.

The Socks: Anonymousism Boucle Mix Socks, $18 — As I always say here on this blog, don’t sleep on stylish accessories — particularly well-made socks from Anonymousism. Simply designed, well-made and stylish, the Boucle Mix Socks are a refined finishing touch.

The Watch: About Vintage 1815 Chronograph, $349 — What’s the one small accessory — besides stylish socks — that can both define an outfit and add quite a lot of style to said outfit? A classic men’s dress watch. This vintage-style About Vintage Chronograph is sharp and refined.

The Belt: Tanner Goods Standard Belt, $104.98 — Last but not least, we can’t forget a simply designed, durable men’s belt — especially not the excellent Standard Belt from Tanner Goods.

That’ll about do it for this tailored men’s style ensemble — do you have a better idea of how to wear Chelsea boots this season? The Wynford Chelsea Boots from Hudson Shoes are an excellent starting point for a sleek and tailored #OOTD — at least, that’s what I think. This look gets even sharper when you throw in winter-ready, dressy staples — take the Telegraph Trousers from Taylor Stitch, for instance. And similarly weather-ready shirting, like the Corridor NYC Check Flannel Shirt, also helps you get the job done in terms of seasonal dressing.  Lest we forget, a classic cardigan is going to act as a reliable stand-in for a classic blazer. That combo will be all the warmer with an American-made cashmere scarf and stylish Anonymousism socks, too. Of course, you can’t leave a stylish dress watch off your wrist, and that’s where the terrific About Vintage Chronograph is going to help you stay on time in style. What’s your take on this #OOTD? Will the Wynford Chelsea Boots from Hudson Shoes be finding their way onto your feet this season? Let me know in the comments!

Thanks for reading,

-Beau

Style Pick of the Week: Corridor NYC Check Flannel Shirt

A refined shirt that’s hearty and versatile enough for plenty of wearing occasions through fall and winter.

There are brands that make nice #menswear right here in America, and then there are brands like Corridor NYC — making its line of stylish men’s shirting, outerwear and the like in New York City (and in the case of this classic flannel shirt, Philadelphia). That’s a cut above the rest, to be sure, and that makes the Corridor NYC Check Flannel Shirt potentially your new favorite flannel shirt, my friends.  November is simply an excellent time to break out those fall style essentials that seem to have sat in our closets for longer this year, what with slightly warmer weather creeping later into the season. But now, well … the Check Flannel Shirt deserves your attention as our latest Style Pick of the Week (and as one of the best flannel shirts out there).  It’s made with wool-blend fabric and features a handsome fit that’s not too tight, yet pleasingly tailored. Corridor NYC  certainly has the pedigree to churn out reliable basics like this. The brand wants to make “engaging yet classic pieces,” from outerwear to shirting — and it would appear they’re succeeding quite nicely. Heck, the Check Flannel Shirt is but one in a stellar line of rugged, versatile menswear — like the tremendous Corridor NYC Waxed M-65, for instance. With a similar attention to detail and remarkable quality, the Corridor NYC Check Flannel Shirt  sits in a class of its own (that goes for style as well as substance).

Corridor NYC

Elegant fabric, quality construction and subtle style set this Corridor NYC flannel shirt apart.

The Corridor NYC Check Flannel Shirt is nearly a go-anywhere type of flannel shirt, just casual enough to wear with cordoroys and a crewneck sweater — yet sharp enough to pull double duty during the work week. It also features a spread collar, making this the type of flannel shirt that works as well with American-made denim and rugged leather boots as it does with your best fall and winter blazer. Yes indeed, the Check Flannel Shirt will set you back nearly $160 … but I guarantee you don’t have another shirt in your closet like it. The blue-and-brown stripe combo is handsome and refined, but just unique enough to stand out quietly. It’s a piece that you can buy now, and wear through March or April thanks to that versatile color combo and subtly stylish pattern. The Check Flannel Shirt is also hearty enough to pair with a wool or knit tie — plus your favorite fall blazer. Have you caught on to the fact that the Corridor NYC Check Flannel Shirt is simply, quite possibly … your next flannel shirt for fall and winter? Helpfully, it’s available now — before Thanksgiving and Christmas — and it’ll reliably give any holiday party look a bit of a shot in the arm (and it goes without saying that it’ll upgrade your casual weekend style, too). It’s just up to you to make the Corridor NYC Check Flannel Shirt a part of your wardrobe. What do ya say?

How would you style the Corridor NYC Check Flannel Shirt? Is it worthy of your style wish list? 

The Friday Read: Early Holiday Gift Ideas, A New Timepiece and Craft Beer

Hey there, my friends — let’s raise a glass to the weekend, yes? It’s been a jam-packed week in NYC, from a media event at my day job at NYC’s Coyne PR to some excellent rock shows on the side, including a long-awaited retun from my pals in the West Coast-based indie rock band Mainland. They played the legendary Mercury Lounge on Wednesday night as part of a sold-out tour alongside fellow rockers The Wrecks — talk about a great night of guitar-driven jams. And for what it’s worth, the latest Mainland release, the anthemic “I Found God,” is an excellent, high-voltage song packed with power and a poignant, moving music video to go along with it. A heck of a way to spend a Wednesday night, certainly! This weekend promises more fun, too — I’m heading upstate for a quick day trip to the lovely town of Beacon, home to the world-class Dia: Beacon art museum. It’ll be a nice getaway after a busy week, and I’m bringing my favorite fall style essentials with me, of course. For full coverage, be sure to check out my Instagram. What’s on the docket this weekend for you? On the style front, I’d say you should prep to dress for your next tailgate in style if you’re heading out to a ballgame. Taking things just a bit more casually? We’ve also got you set when it comes to weekend style essentials. Again, I hope you enjoy the weekend — and I hope it’s filled with great coffee, great brunch and great beer!

  • It’s never too early to start shopping around for the best men’s holiday gifts — right? Right? Luckily, our pals at Huckberry have darn near everything you need for a great stocking stuffer (and beyond). Some initial favorites of mine? Ursa Major’s Essential Face Wipes, the cool and cozy Acorn Astronaut Slippers, Fulton & Roark Shave Cream, and of course, the Be Home Copper Bar Set. Fear not, though — we’ll cover plenty of holiday gift suggestions and Black Friday deals in the week ahead.
  • If you’re on the hunt for a new timepiece — which you certainly should be — your search might just be ending … well, today. Martenero lovingly crafts durable, striking timepieces with heritage quality and a modern edge. The Kerrison, the brand’s latest effort is A) Assembled in New York and B) Made with some seriously cool design touches. We’re talking a crisp, simple and stylish everyday watch. It’s available for pre-funding on Kickstarter now and if I were you … I’d hop over to that page and hand over some money.
  • While we’re talking all things Kickstarter, how about upgrading your everyday carry? Maybe with something as simple as the Minimal Mechanical Pencil? From Modern Fuel, this excellently designed mechanical pencil is simple enough to be essential — in short, it’s a pencil you’ll want to pre-fund now … before you find yourself using it all the time, everyday. Plege $340 or more and get the Collector’s Set, featuring one of each pencil. Tell me that’s not a great deal, ehh?
  • Now, aside from menswear writing and live music, I’ve got another passion — that of excellent craft beer. It’s easy to find so many great spots serving up richly crafted beer in NYC, but October (a recently launched beer and music-centric publication) delves into a cool question: What if you only had two taps at your restaurant or bar? What would you serve? The examples seen in this feature are pretty neat, to say the least.

That’s going to do it for this week’s Friday Read — enjoy a nice weekend, shop a few of my fall men’s style essentials, and see you tomorrow for the Style Pick of the Week. Cheers!

-Beau

#OOTD: What to Wear for A Casual Thanksgiving At Home (Or On the Road)

Here’s the thing, folks: Thanksgiving 2017 will soon be upon us, if you can believe it. And whether you’re hopping in the car for a crosstown drive or hopping a flight to see the family dressed in fall travel style, there’s a basic-yet-stylish #OOTD template you can take with you wherever you go. And mark my words, there ways to look laidback yet on-point, as we always talk about here at The Style Guide. Let’s say Thanksgiving is a more casual affair for your family than Christmas — that’s where today’s #OOTD is going to come in handy. For a long afternoon or evening of eating, drinking, parade-watching and pigskin-tossing, you want men’s style essentials that look great and help you move and … well, nap after all that food (and beer, let’s be honest). In short, that’s why we’ve got reliable pieces like a stylish sweatshirt, a classic Oxford shirt and stylish chinos on tap. At the very least, the slim chinos and classic men’s Oxford are going to serve as reliable building blocks for your holiday weekend — you can add or subtract a classic fall blazer, for example, as you see fit. Either way, fall style essentials should certainly be in play. So, that’s where we are this Thanksgiving — reliable, casual and stylish. What are your Thanksgiving plans? Let me know on Twitter. Enjoy!

The Sweatshirt: Flint and Tinder 10-Year Pullover in Forest, $89 — This Flint and Tinder pullover is assuredly very casual, even for a stylish hooded sweatshirt. It’s perfect for lounging around and playing backyard football, but you can swap in a tan herringbone blazer or a stylish V-neck sweater for a more polished look.

The Oxford: Taylor Stitch The Jack Shirt in Charcoal Everyday Oxford, $98 — A reliable move on any holiday, this classic Oxford shirt from Taylor Stitch is foolproof — just don’t spill any cranberry sauce on it.

The Chinos: Taylor Stitch Democratic Chinos in British Khaki, $98Classic men’s chinos in a tailored-yet-mobile fit? From Taylor Stitch? Perfect for a simple-but-sharp Thanksgiving #menswear ensemble.
The Sneakers: SeaVees Huntington Middie (Huckberry Exclusive), $80 — Here’s area we’ll leave up to you. Go with comfortable, casual, classic men’s sneakers, easy to wear for travel or a laidback Thanksgiving at home … or swap in something along the lines of stylish Chelsea boots for more polished style.

The Socks: American Trench Fair Isle Socks in Merino and Cashmere, $33 — Hey, don’t skimp on stylish socks — particularly if you’re going to be padding around someone else’s house. These American Trench socks are a smooth (if pricey) move.

The Belt: Sturdy Brothers Everyday Belt in Chestnut, $80 — OK, until at least your first plate at Thanksgiving dinner, you’ll want to wear the reliable Everyday Belt in Chestnut from Sturdy Brothers.

The Watch: Jack Mason Aviator Watch in Light Brown/Black, $205 — For essential Thanksgiving style, you’re going to want a casual leather watch that’s classically designed and durably constructed. Jack Mason has your back.

The Easy Travel Bag: Filson Tablet Briefcase in Navy, $275— Alright, this Filson Tablet Briefcase is moreso for those of us who are hitting the road. Use it as a small carry-on, or use it to haul handy everyday carry essentials — and maybe an extra bottle of craft beer — to and from dinner.

I can smell that turkey cooking now — can’t you? Starting any holiday oufit with the right pieces is going to put you in a great spot, and that’ll allow you to layer up in casual style with that Flint and Tinder pullover. Elsewhere, the Jack Shirt from Taylor Stitch is an everyday go-to, and perfectly acceptable to wear on Thanksgiving.  The same goes for the Taylor Stitch Democratic Chinos, featuring a tailored fit that’s not too tight — so, you know, you can grab that second (or third) helping. Certainly, you could finish this outfit off in casual fashion with classic men’s sneakers … or you can go a little bit sharper with rugged leather chukka boots. Your accessories should, as always, stay sharp. That goes for the Jack Mason Aviator Watch, the pleasingly rugged Sturdy Brothers Everyday Belt and the handy, durable Filson Tablet Briefcase — always be prepared with what you need to keep you, your significant other or your children entertained on a road trip, ehh? Oh, and socks … put on stylish socks without holes in ’em, like the American Trench Fair Isle Socks as seen above. No matter where you go, I’m wishing you a happy, fun and ultimately, thankful Thanksgiving. Can’t get enough of The Style Guide? Make sure to check out our See Now, Buy Now series for plenty of holiday gear, and be sure to shop The List for monthly dispatches on the best men’s gear for the season.

Thanks for reading!

-Beau