The List: It’s Time You Picked Up these Fall and Winter Menswear Essentials

Read on to learn more about this outstanding leather jacket.

Look around you — more specifically, look at what you’re wearing. If you’re not wearing something like the Taylor Stitch Moto Jacket as seen above (preferably coupled with other fall style essentials), you might not be doing it right, my friend. But that’s more than OK — we’re absolutely here to help here at The Style Guide with the latest, ultra-stylish rendition of The List. I think you’ll find that today’s picks will take you far — particularly the wear-with-anything Lisboa Francisco Flannel Shirt, among other favorites. So, without further ado … here we go!

Taylor Stitch Moto Jacket in Espresso Steerhide — $875

Absolutely worthy of pre-investing in this thing, right?

If you’re going to have to wait a while to get your next favorite leather jacket, you might as well make the wait worthwhile — that’s where the Taylor Stitch Moto Jacket comes into play.

Lisboa Francisco Flannel Shirt — $118

A timeless pattern turned into a new favorite flannel shirt.

Blackwatch plaid is a classic menswear pattern, and in this case, it’s been translated into the handsome Lisboa Francisco Flannel Shirt. Wear this shirt with the Flint and Tinder 365 Pants (wink, wink).

Zero Halliburton Check Case — $950

A slim, sleek piece of luggage that takes care of your business travel needs, easily.

In case your wallet wasn’t quite hurting enough, there’s this sleek and globetrotter-approved piece of luggage — less rugged, more refined and all business, the Zero Halliburton Check Case gets the job done.

Outerknown Ambassador Slim Jeans — $128

Slim black jeans that are perfect for your next rock show.

What’s more ideal than a pair of slim black jeans? A pair that’s made sustainably, like the Outerknown Ambassador Slim Jeans. Bingo.

Billy Reid Mouline Henley — $98

The nicest henley you (nearly) own? That’s true — without a doubt.

If you know anything about Billy Reid, you know that he’s all about making luxurious versions of the fall style essentials you know and love — hence, the Mouline Henley.

Faherty Brand Sweatpants — $98

Logo-free, slim-fitting and stylishly cut — these are the best sweatpants for your next weekend.

Let’s talk decidedly more laidback style than the Mouline Henley — like these well-fitting, yet stylish, Faherty Brand Sweatpants. Perfect for a casual fall or winter weekend.

Relwen Quilted Tanker — $298

The right sort of rugged military jacket to wear for fall and winter.

Relwen takes inspiration from a place most great menswear essentials hail from — the military. And the Quilted Tanker is truly an excellent fall and winter outerwear pick — stock up accordingly.

Bespoke Post Over Easy Box — $45 (When Signing Up for Bespoke Post)

Your weekend brunch just got a home-cooked upgrade.

OK, this isn’t strictly related to menswear … but the Bespoke Post Over Easy Box makes it pretty easy to take care of weekend brunch. Plus, who doesn’t love pancakes??

Taylor Stitch Heavy Bag Tee in Navy — $45

One of the best T-shirts on the market, that much I know to be true.

Every guy could use a stylish T-shirt that’s ready for layering under all manner of fall style essentials — and the Taylor Stitch Heavy Bag Tee is that T-shirt precisely.

Astorflex Greenflex Chukka in Nubuck — $155

Both durable and classic, these new chukka boots are ideal for fall.

Serious question: Is it possible for Astorflex to make a bad pair of boots? The Astorflex Greenflex Chukka in Nubuck seem to say … well, no.

Autodromo Stradale Watch — $875

A striking dress watch that’s different from anything in your collection.

Although I’m one to reach for a more rugged timepiece, the sleek, slim and dressy Autodromo Stradale might just be one of the more unique men’s dress watches out there. Won’t you agree?

30 Watt Sudski Shower Beer Holder — $15

A handy essential that you didn’t know you needed — most likely, right?

Alright, so this last one’s just for fun. How neat is it that someone came up for a crucial invention covering that all-important shower beer? Pretty neat.

Now, that’s wrapping up today’s post of must-have men’s shopping essentials. If you want to go with a menswear pick that’ll work in multiple seasons, you should stick with one of my favorite picks — the Outerknown Ambassador Slim Jeans. What are you digging today? And how would you wear this gear? Let me know on Twitter!

The Friday Read: Fall Style Essentials from Huckberry, The Best Men’s Sweatpants and Kurt Vile


You see that handsome jacket — or rather, those jackets — at the top of the page? That would be the incredible, truly stunning Taylor Stitch Moto Jacket — the new iteration on the right, the classic style on the left — part of the brand’s excellent Moto Collection. This release is a consistent favorite from perhaps my favorite menswear brand, and I’d urge you to shop it right now from my good pals at Taylor Stitch. Seriously, right now. At any rate, that’s as great of a way to kick of the weekend as any, wouldn’t you agree? I’m personally excited to catch my breath a bit — between three days of events this week at my day job (handling menswear PR for Timberland!), plus a busy, music-filled weekend at Austin City Limits Festival, I could use a break! On that note, I can’t recommend Austin enough — the coffee was strong and delicious (hit up The Spokesman if you can!), the beer was terrific and stunning sets by legends like Sir Paul McCartney (and my heroes The National!) at ACL made it all worth it. Other weekend highlights? A powerful, dance-filled set from CHVRCHES to close out Saturday, a fun afternoon of rock with The Wombats and a ripping Sunday night set from English rockers Arctic Monkeys. I also loved a powerful Friday afternoon set by Canadian rockers Arkells.  Of course, Austin is excellent in matters of menswear as well — STAG Provisions continues to lead the way there. Some other Austin highlights? The cozy, simply terrific Figure8 Coffee Purveyors — a neatly appointed shop in a quiet neighborhood serving delicious (and strong!) craft coffee.


What do you love in Austin? What should be on my radar for the next trip? Feel free to check in with me on Twitter! And in the meantime, let’s start the weekend right with today’s Friday Read.

  • I truly can’t get enough of the stylish menswear being produced and sold over at Huckberry — don’t you agree? With that in mind, I rounded up my favorite fall style essentials from Huckberry for GearMoose. What’s on your list this season?
  • OK, so it’s nearly the weekend. In the way of staying cozy and comfortable for fall, you’d well to check out my picks for the best men’s sweatpants over at The Manual.
  • I’m resharing this post once again, because as we get into colder weather, the timing just seems right. The Proof Strong Shirt is assuredly one of the best men’s chambray shirts out there, blending functionality and rugged style with versatility. Wear it as much as you can this fall and winter.
  • Alright, so y’all know I love me some great guitar rock. Kurt Vile fits that mold quite nicely, which is why I appreciate this excellent Steve Hyden profile of Kurt Vile’s latest album, “Bottle It In” — read on and rock out.

That’s closing out today’s post — thanks for reading!

The List: Here Are the Top Men’s Style Essentials to Shop This Week

Just one of the remarkable menswear essentials we’re recommending you buy this week (or month!).

If the weather is anything like it is in my neck of the woods, perhaps you’ve really started to get that fall feeling — a crisp breeze, changing leaves and perhaps … the desire to stow away your early fall gear in favor of men’s style essentials that are a little heftier and more rugged? Take the Taylor Stitch Fisherman Sweater, today’s featured pick and the lead entry in this edition of The List. There’s plenty more where that came from — read on below.

Taylor Stitch Fisherman Sweater in Natural Melange — $188

A handsome sweater from an authentic brand.

Your friends — heck, our friends — at Taylor Stitch have their hearts and minds set on making some of the best darn cold-weather gear out there. Exhibit A: The rugged, well-crafted Taylor Stitch Fisherman Sweater.

Triumph & Disaster On The Road Kit — $35.98

Handy essentials for a fall weekend away.

After all the rugged outdoor adventures you’ll have wearing the Taylor Stitch Fisherman Sweater, your face is going to need some R-and-R. The Triumph & Disaster On The Road Kit should be a fall travel essential.

Billy Reid Garment-Dyed Slim Jeans — $225

These jeans are,. quite simply, beautiful.

Japanese selvage denim, garment-dyed & then crafted into slim blue jeans by a lauded American designer? These are only going to get better with age this fall.

Howler Brothers Merlin Jacket — $195

Technical detailing and vintage looks come together in one cool package.

Available in two cool colors, the Howler Brothers Merlin Jacket blends technical functionality with the kind of vintage style you might have seen on the trail decades ago. In short: It’s now the perfect fall jacket to wear with slim, faded jeans, suede chukka boots and a rugged henley.

Bespoke Post Swagger Box — $45 (When Signing Up for Bespoke Post)

Plenty of stylish socks to go around here, that much is true.

A heck of a lot of style swagger is what you’re getting in this excellent Bespoke Post Box, featuring up to six pairs of stylish men’s socks. Good stuff, especially for fall.

Huckberry x Lum-Tec Combat B-52 Watch — $499

A pleasingly rugged watch for fall and winter .. and every season beyond that.

You need a watch for fall that works as hard as you do — the beastly, yet subtly stylish, Huckberry x Lum-Tec Combat B-52 is one such watch, assuredly.

Kamik Yukon C Boots — $110

Like the original “Duck Boots” … but somehow cooler?

Hey, winter’s going to get here eventually. You might as well buy these rugged outdoor boots now — your feet will thank you later.

Flint and Tinder Check Buttondown — $108

An essenttial casual shirt inspired by vintage plaids.

It’s easy to forget just how essential a simple-yet-crisp navy plaid buttondown shirt can be. The Flint and Tinder Check Buttondown features Japanese cotton, a clean fit and a great price.

Iron & Resin Union Work Pants — $155

Hard to go wrong with tough work pants for rugged fall style.

When the going gets tough, the tough get going … and surely, they step into the Iron & Resin Union Work Pants, right?

SeaVees Mariners Boot in Pig Suede Desert — $158

These are nearly a fall must-have. Beautifully done.

SeaVees has done it again, this time updating the excellent Mariners Boot in beautiful, rich suede for fall. Wear them with the Flint and Tinder Stonewashed Jeans (nudge, nudge).

 

Now, that’s going to close out today’s edition of The List — although I certainly hope you’ll keep coming back to it. What’s your favorite of the above men’s style essentials (besides the Taylor Stitch Fisherman Sweater, of course)? I seriously enjoy the excellent Howler Brothers Merlin Jacket. Feel free to let me know your thoughts on The Style Guide Facebook page — cheers!

#OOTD: The Best Way to Wear Sneakers This Fall (And Beyond)

So, how do you build your outfits? Do you start from the ground up or the top down? If you’re the kind of guy who likes to work with men’s style essentials to build an outfit around, say, stylish retro sneakers, then today’s #OOTD is just the one you need. We’ve talked about how to wear high-top sneakers, and we’ve talked about how to dress for a casual fall weekend, and this ensemble merges those two themes quite nicely.  It all starts with the Reproduction of Found German Army Trainers, as authentic and cool a pair of sneakers as you’re apt to find out there.  They lend a distinguished, eye-catching vibe to this outfit, which features all the building blocks you need for weekend brunch, a day of shopping or a stroll through your favorite park — potentially blended into one heck of a day, right? We’re also going with the perfect pair of jeans, plus a rugged shirt jacket, to complement these distinctive sneakers. This outfit is full of seriously cool positives, one of ’em being that you can wear this look … just about anywhere this fall. It’s cool, it’s rugged, it’s laidback, and it gives you plenty of comfort and style, all at once. Again, even if you’re not a sneakerhead, it still pays off to have a stylish pair of sneakers in your fall and winter wardrobe, and the Reproduction of Found German Army Trainers fit the bill. So, what do ya say? I say we dive into this #OOTD, packed with fall style essentials. Thanks for reading!

Start with classic, cool sneakers, then go from there.

  • The Classic Sneakers: Reproduction of Found German Military Trainers, $230 — Based on an authentic silhoeutte, these cool, stylish retro sneakers are a change-up from more traditional fall footwear — and that’s a good thing.
  • The Shirt Jacket: Life/After/Denim Mount Royal Shirt Jacket in Black, $188 — Think of this rugged shirt jacket as the versatile outer layer you didn’t know you needed. Feel free to layer it up over a classic chambray shirt if you wish.
  • The Stylish Tee: Jungmaven Hemp Pocket Tee, $39.98 — This casual T-shirt is easy to layer and well-made, plus it’s got a rich, fall-friendly color.  A slight upgrade from your regular T-shirts, to  say the least.
  • The Denim: Flint and Tinder Stonewashed Jeans, $128 — Hard to argue with a pair of perfectly faded, made-in-America jeans that vibe nicely with this casual ensemble, right?
  • The Belt: Levi’s Contrast Stitch Belt, $38 — You already know that Levi’s makes a great pair of jeans — but how about a stylish leather belt?
  • The Everyday Carry: Filson Ballistic Nylon Dryden Briefcase, $175 — Packing up to head to a coffee shop and get some work done? Cruising into the office? Grab the Filson Dryden Briefcase.
  • The Socks: Anonymousism Wigwam Jacquard Crew Socks in Brown, $20.50 — Never underestimate the power of having a stylish pair of socks to finish off your wardrobe. Just enough cool pattern and color here.
  • The Beanie Cap: Levi’s Turn Up Beanie, $29.50 — If the temperature dips — which it’s bound to do — throw on this stylis beanie cap from the makers of your favorite pair of classic denim.
  • The Watch: Hemel HFT20 Watch, $450 — Bold, rugged and durable, the Hemel HFT20 Watch is made for weekend adventures aplenty.
  • The Everyday Carry: Filson Ballistic Nylon Dryden Briefcase, $175 — Packing up to head to a coffee shop and get some work done? Cruising into the office? Grab the Filson Dryden Briefcase.

OK, so all the building blocks for prime casual fall style are in place, right? From a rugged shirt jacket to the laidback, easygoing and comfortable Jungmaven pocket tee, these pieces are simply going to look great, whether worn to your favorite sports bar or to a relaxed weekend coffee date … or somewhere in between. And where does it all start? With the excellent Reproduction of Found German Army Trainers, of course. These sneakers exude retro cool and slightly rugged fall style thanks to the contrasting sole, and they’ll sit quite nicely underneath the Flint and Tinder Stonewashed Jeans. Don’t be afraid to shelve your slim dark denim in favor of something more broken-in, particularly when it comes to wearing sneakers like the terrific Reproduction of Found German Army Trainers. On the accessories front, I’m always an advocate for putting on a stylish leather belt and a rugged leather watch — two small, oft-overlooked accessories that really do make a big difference when it comes to separating yourself from the pack. Should it get chilly, you’re also nicely covered with the Levi’s Turn Up Beanie, which plays nicely in terms of color with the handsome, subtly stylish Anonymousism socks. When it comes to your everyday carry, the Filson Dryden Briefcase is going to put in a ton of work, to say the least. To me, this all the gear you need for a great day around town — where would you wear it? Let me know on Twitter!

See Now, Buy Now: The Vetra Chore Coat is A Perfectly Rugged Fall Layer

Vetra Chore Coat

Just the right combination of looks, rugged functionality and seasonal style.

One look at the Vetra Chore Coat tells you all you need to know, in my mind. That is to say, it’s a rugged, tough jacket that’s made for fall and winter layering. And it’s certainly among a host of fall style essentials you need in your wardrobe (and on your person) this season. Is it the perfect fall jacket? Well, that’s high praise … but when it comes to casual, versatile, then … yep, the Vetra Chore Coat just might fit the bill. Available as ever via our pals at Huckberry, it’s the sort of rugged fall jacket that embodies what the site stands for, in every possible way. Again, that’s high praise, but the Vetra Chore Coat blends functionality with an easy-to-layer silhouette and timeless style. Crafted from a heavy-duty, plain-weave cotton canvas in a highly versatile shade of Navy (although the same design is available in two different fabrics and colors), the made-in-France Vetra Chore Coat is the type of grab-and-go jacket that should assuredly be the centerpiece of your next fall weekend #OOTD.

SHOP: The Vetra Chore Coat via Huckberry

Yes indeed, the Vetra Chore Coat is one-of-a-kind, done up in the type of classic workwear style that would sit very well with a rugged long-sleeve henley and tough chore pants. Two oversized front pockets and one chest pocket provide room for your everyday carry essentials, while the five front buttons certainly aren’t in any danger of falling off — this jacket is tough and sturdy as heck. That means it’ll layer up quite nicely with a classic crewneck sweater and tan chinos for a bit of high-low, essential weekend style. It’s also a neat way to switch things up from your typical blazer — yes, that’s right … I’m recommending you wear the Vetra Chore Coat over a slim Oxford shirt and a knit tie at the office. Is that entirely unique combo? Yessir. Is it going to look great? Absolutely. Try it out and see for yourself.

SHOP: The Vetra Chore Coat via Huckberry

Style Pick of the Week: Quoddy Bowhunter Boots

Durable, heritage-quality boots that hone the spirit of the outdoors & the spirit of fall.

As we always talk about here at The Style Guide, there are certain fall style essentials you gotta have, and there are certain fall style essentials that are well worth the investment, ones that have that “Wow” factor. The Quoddy Bowhunter Boots absolutely fit into that category, to say the very least.  And for our Style Pick of the Week series, they’ll fit the bill just fine — particularly now that we’re cruising through October. If you’ve been slacking when it comes to picking up a pair of the best men’s boots, now is the time to snap ’em up. After all, everything from apple orchard exploration to craft beer festivals to football tailgates still awaits, and the exceptional Quoddy Bowhunter Boots are the one pair of boots to wear to all of those pursuits  (and to the office, if you can get away with it). Rugged leather boots are an essential for taking on fall and winter weather, and if you’re going to splurge, you might as well splurge on a pair that’s going to give you plenty in matters of both style and functionality — the Quoddy Bowhunter Boots shape up quite nicely.

Handmade in Maine with a seriously cool and rugged Grizzly Peanut leather, the Quoddy Bowhunter Boots are made with antique brass eyelets for durability — lace ’em up as often as you please. That handsome leather is going to break in very nicely, giving you a pair of stylish men’s boots that’ll team up easily alongside perfectly faded jeans and a classic henley. They’ve also got that throwback, heritage-inspired look that lends itself to actually being worn in  the field, be it on a weekend camping trip or a long weekend upstate. And you’re simply not going to find many other boots that feature a hand-stained leather midsole or a deerskin bellows tongue (designed to keep out water and debris). Yes indeed, the Quoddy Bowhunter Boots are the height of craftsmanship, quality and classic style. They’re going to work particularly well with chore pants and a waxed trucker jacket on a chilly fall or winter morning — no need to worry about durability or longevity when it comes to the Quoddy Bowhunter Boots, my friends. And if you fancy taking them for a spin at your office? They’ll wear handsomely with olive chinos and a classic garment-dyed Oxford.  A pair of stylish men’s boots that can do it all sounds like a must-have to me this season.

SHOP: The Quoddy Bowhunter Boots and more of the Best Men’s Boots for Fall

The List: Keep Your Fall Going with The Best Gear Picks for Men to Buy Now

A rugged, truly excellent fall jacket.

Alright  my friends, how have you been powering through fall? Perhaps you’ve enjoyed yourself an Oktoberfest brew or two, or attended a fine music festival like the Audiotree Music Festival — or, potentially like me, you’ve had the chance to shop for some men’s style essentials. OK, more than some … a lot of fall style essentials, let’s say. Well, we’re back at it with the best of the best when it comes to rugged, exceptionally well-made gear for the season. Case in point: The Flint and Tinder Flannel-Lined Waxed Trucker Jacket, today’s top pick. Enjoy, folks.
Flint and Tinder Flannel-Lined Waxed Trucker Jacket — $220

Step out with the best of the best when it comes to stylish outerwear.

Outrageously well-made, durable and tough — the latest iteration of the exceptional Flint and Tinder Flannel-Lined Waxed Trucker even features a neat flannel blanke stripe lining.
Billy Reid Dover Sweatshirt — $195

A luxurious casual sweatshirt — yes, there’s such a thing.

What are you layering under the Flint and Tinder Flannel-Lined Waxed Trucker? Oh, that’s an easy one. The refined-yet-laidback Dover Sweatshirt from Billy Reid works any way you style it.
Reproduction of Found German Military Trainer — $230

Old-school trainers that result in new-school style.

Seriously cool sneakers with real-world history and roots — it’s helpful that they’re easily wearable with everything from dark jeans and a blue Oxford to a slim henley and chore pants.
Bespoke Post Good as Gold EDC Kit — $89

The small, underrated and yet stylish essentials you need in your arsenal.

All the durable gear you need for outdoor adventures this fall — and nothing you don’t. Talk about an everyday carry essential, right?
 
Bridge & Burn Russell Shirt Jacket — $198

Just the sort of rugged overshirt you’d expect Bridge & Burn to craft.

The type of go-anywhere layer you can wear atop a stylish graphic tee or a chambray shirt. Nicely done, Bridge & Burn.
 
Portuguese Flannel Tomar Shirt — $123

A new classic in your wardrobe.

Every guy needs a stylish flannel shirt in his fall wardrobe — I dig the premium price point and premium construction of the Tomar Shirt from Portuguese Flannel.
Danner Mountain Pass Boots (Huckberry Exclusive) — $380

Rugged boots that manage to blend both outdoor and more traditional style.

Beautifully crafted boots that exude a rugged, outdoor-ready vibe. Wear ’em with stylish khaki five-pocket pants, a classic Oxford shirt and a heather grey cardigan for an off-kilter take on Sunday brunch.
 
Bespoke Post Alchemy Box — $45 (When Signing Up for Bespoke Post)

Mix yourself a nice cocktail — you deserve it.

Hey, fall is as great a season as any for mixing up a rich, dark liquid-based (ahem, whiskey?) cocktail. The Alchemy Box has everything you need.
EVERGOODS CPL 24 Backpack — $229

The one backpack you can count on, time and again.

A sleek, minimal and yet surprisingly tough backpack can put in tons of work for plenty of fall adventures.
Taylor Stitch Utility Shirt in Navy Jacquard — $148

A tough, yet surprisingly easygoing, top layer for fall and winter.

This organic cotton shirt is simply perfect for layering over everything from a classic white T-shirt to a stylish long-sleeve henley.
Fulton & Roark Better Shave Kit — $44

The goods to give you the shave you need.

Hey, not every guy goes full-on beard for the season, right? That’s where this handsome shaving kit comes into play from Fulton & Roark.

Proof Rover Pants — $98

Cut to wear with essentials both casual and more tailored.

Durable, versatile, well-made and available in some prime fall colors — the Proof Rover Pants work any day of the week.
OK, so — from the excellent Flint and Tinder Flannel-Lined Waxed Trucker Jacket to the exceptional Danner Mountain Pass Boots, did you have a favorite from the above list? It’s always a tough call, right? Right. Feel free to let me know of any favorites over at The Style Guide Facebook page, where the #menswear forum is always open.  Thanks for reading!

Style Pick of the Week: Billy Reid Dover Sweatshirt

More than just your average sweatshirt, that’s for sure.

We’ve all likely got that favorite weekend sweatshirt, the one that you reach for on cloudy, dreary, casual days — well, let’s shake things up a bit, because the Billy Reid Dover Sweatshirt is A) Your new seasonal favorite and B) One heck of an addition to your ever-growing list of men’s style essentials.  Inshort, it’s got everything you need in a casual sweater, with an added punch in terms of style points, easy wearability and cool design details. Sounds pretty great, right? Billy Reid is one of those American menswear designers with a point of view that’s distinct and premium, yet uniquely accessible — case in point, the Dover Sweatshirt.  Made in Canada from a cotton-poly blend in a classic crewneck sweatshirt design, this stylish weekend sweatshirt is a winner on all fronts … heck, it’s stylish enough to be worn to the office with slim five-pocket pants, suede Chelsea boots and a classic Oxford shirt for a nice mix of high and low styles. My personal favorite has to be the Natural color, but the Dover Sweatshirt is also available in a crisp Dark Midnight color. Really, it’s your call — you’re getting excellent versatility and style with the Billy Reid Dover Sweatshirt. The only question, really, is how to style it.

SHOP: The Billy Reid Dover Sweatshirt via Huckberry

Billy Reid

Neat leather patches set this thing apart from the pack.

Herringbone twill detailing and vintage-inspired leather elbow patches elevate the Dover Sweatshirt quite nicely. This is the type of sweatshirt that’s going to work with everything from perfectly faded jeans and suede chukka boots to slim corduroy pants and stylish brown leather brogues. When’s the last time you had a sweatshirt like that, ehh?  The results are absolutely what you’d expect from a lauded designer like Billy Reid, who prides himself on doing things in a way that’s different yet accessible. Take the small finishing touches, like piping details at the armhole — the  Dover Sweatshirt is made with craft and care top of mind. In short, you’re going to feel comfortable and look great, even if the only thing you can muster up is a visit to your local coffee shop. But preferably, you’re going to be dressed to take on the world  (even on a weekend!) with the Dover Sweatshirt — it’s that stylish and sharp. For your Style Guide author, it’s the perfect grab-and-go piece to layer over a classic white T-shirt. But feel free to make the Dover Sweatshirt your own — it can certainly handle style scenarios aplenty.

SHOP: The Billy Reid Dover Sweatshirt via Huckberry

The Friday Read: Jason Isbell, New Danner Boots and Relwen

Here we are, folks. It’s Friday, it’s October, and it’s time to cap off a heck of a week. I spent two incredible days last weekend at the iconic Forest Hills Stadium, celebrating the excellent inagural edition of There’s No Leaving New York. The lovely early fall weekend featured two extraordinary sets from my favorite band and my heroes, The National, plus stellar work from resurgent artists like Cat Power and Future Islands. Seriously, seeing Future Islands play poignant tracks like “Vireo’s Eye,” and then having that night capped off by my favorite band? It really doesn’t get any better, from classics and deep cuts like “About Today” and “Green Gloves,” along with a terrific Cat Power cover.

Saturday night’s performance also featured duets with rising indie rock luminary Phoebe Bridgers on “Sorrow and “I Need My Girl” — talk about a major treat, right?? It’s really been quite the year for The National playing their own festivals — it was a pleasure to be able to trek to Cincy in April for Homecoming, and I’m very hopeful the band brings back both festivals next year. You can follow along with all the fun on Twitter, or you can check out my work on Instagram. Now, let’s hop into a (relatively short) edition of The Friday Read.

A durable cross between hiking boots and Chelsea boots — read more below.

  • As a lover of both Twitter (yep) and live music, I found this Rolling Stone piece on folk rocker Jason Isbell to be mighty interesting — might you feel the same way? Time will tell.
  • So, it’s nearly the weekend after all, right? Finally. And I’ve got just the #OOTD for you. Featuring rugged Chelsea boots — that also happen to be hiking boots?  — along with a cozy, made-in-America sweatshirt and an essential long-sleeve tee, this ensemble can take on darn near anything.
  • Looking for a perfectly cozy fall layer? One that’s actually … stylish? That’s the Relwen Shag Fleece Pop-Zip, the subject of a recent entry of mine for GearMoose. I won’t spoil too much here!

OK, folks — that’s all we’ve got today. Let’s end the week on a high note and kick things off the right way!

See Now, Buy Now: The Danner Mountain 600 Chelsea Boots Are Your Next Fall Footwear Pick-up

Danner

Fit for going off trail … or just going down the road to your favorite coffee shop.

If you’re going to step into a new pair of the best men’s boots for fall, you might as well turn toward Danner, right? That’s my thought, at least. The lauded, Pacific Northwest-based bootmaker has taken its considerable expertise and turned it toward a pair of boots — the Danner Mountain 600 Chelsea — that perfectly merge outdoor functionality and casual style. And make no mistake, a good pair of boots should likely top your list of fall style essentials (it’s October, after all!) The design approach taken on the Danner Mountain 600 Chelsea is admirable and much-needed for the guy on the go, especially if you’re someone who’s on their feet a lot (y’know, the office, the coffee shop, the bar, a rock show … you get the picture). But here’s the great thing about these tough Danner boots — they’re quite stylish, as it were. That can be rare at times when shopping for comfortable shoes, but the fact that the Ortholite footbed and Vibram Fuga outsole on the Danner Mountain 600 Chelsea are topped off with rich full-grain leather is pretty darn cool.

SHOP: The Danner Mountain 600 Chelsea via Huckberry 

The Ariaprene collar makes these easy to slip and go.

That sort of all-day style is what makes the Danner Mountain 600 Chelsea particularly useful this fall. They’ve got the subtly stylish look of your favorite pair of Chelsea boots, combined with the rugged comfort to be worn to a bonfire or off trail on a (rather leisurely) day hike. These aren’t quite a pair of mountaineering boots, but dang it if they don’t feel comfortable enough to take on nearly anything. And another benefit of picking up the  Danner Mountain 600 Chelsea? The kind of style that goes with casual style scenarios aplenty. To keep it simple, I’d wear ’em with slim faded denim (try the Flint and Tinder Stonewash Jeans!), plus a grey crewneck sweater and a rugged field watch on a lazy fall weekend. Feeling a bit more polished? Try the Danner Mountain 600 Chelsea with a navy cotton blazer, a garment-dyed Oxford shirt and slim tan chinos — no one will even know these boots were made to go off-trail.

How do you feel about boots that blend the comfort of sneakers and the look of a Chelsea boot? Let me know via Twitter. 

SHOP: The Danner Mountain 600 Chelsea via Huckberry