October 19, 2015October 19, 2015 by Beau H.

Online Shopping Picks: Best Men’s Jackets for Fall

Editor’s note: Check out more Online Shopping Picks here.

When we last chatted here at the ol’ Style Guide HQ, we were talking, among other things, about great gear to carry you through fall transitions. There’s a lot that can fall under that umbrella, however — from rugged henleys to crisp blazers and tough boots. But today, we’re talking specifically about outerwear. It’s not quite the weather for a super-refined and heavier topcoat as of yet, but it’s presumably colder than situations where you might just wear a simple long-sleeve tee. And we’re looking for styles that can lend some rugged appeal to dressier outfits, as well as a bit o’ casual cool. So, we’re right in the middle. That means everything from field coats to sweater-jackets are on the table. The picks below encapsulate just a few of the many styles you might find yourself wanting to reach for before it gets incredibly cold — best read up and do some shopping now!

#1. J. Crew Wallace & Barnes Denim Bomber — $298

An in-between jacket that’s highly versatile.

$298? For a denim jacket? Wallace & Barnes definitely represents the pricier iteration of J. Crew’s classic styles, but it seems the outerwear from this particular line is always quite well-done. And this denim bomber fuses a terrific silhouette with the unique styling touches of dark denim … on your top half. It’s definitely a splurge, but it can be styled over everything from an olive henley to a nice chambray shirt. And it’ll fade over time as it gets broken in, lending a distinctive touch to a piece you can really call your own.

#2. Shinola + Golden Bear Men’s Wool Bomber Jacket — $495

An unexpected take on the bomber jacket from a brand that excels in accessories.

Is that price eye-popping? Yes. Is this an aspirational piece you might pin to a Wish List board? Indeed. But Shinola is a brand that’s really nailed their identity as far as crafting rugged-refined pieces you didn’t know you were missing until now — like the above bomber jacket. Bringing on the team at Golden Bear is perhaps the best way to make an entry into that category, as well. It’s a big-time luxury piece that updates a military silhouette, like its J. Crew brethren up top. It’d be a great jacket to reach for on those windier days closer to winter — and in the months thereafter. The most versatile thing about it is the fact that it can instantly elevate any outfit, from jeans and wingtip boots to some slim corduroys.

#3. Old Navy Quilted Bomber Jacket — $54.94

Simple style at a super-affordable price.

Now that cost above is more like it, right? Old Navy has been quietly upping their style credibility these past few years, and they’ve even outsold their loftier counterparts at Banana Republic and the like (witness their president leaving for Ralph Lauren as proof of this evolution). This bomber is a nice example of how they’ve made some waves. It’s not a piece that’ll turn a crazy amount of heads, but it’s affordably priced, versatile and able to handle both rains and fall breezes; the trickiest part about it is that black color, which is less versatile than navy or grey. But if worn casually, it should still fit right in over a henley and some brown chukka boots.

#4. Land’s End Quilted Shirt-Jacket — $89.99

Two shades of blue plus some unique details make this a great go-between.

Land’s End is another brand that, much like Old Navy, has worked hard as of late to bolster its credibility in the style space. This quilted shirt-jacket is but one of the unexpected ways in which they’re making that effort. It’s a unique piece that’s not quite a full-on jacket, but should still do well layered over everything from a henley (that’s a style suggestion that won’t quit!) to another chambray shirt. Pair this one with some slim chinos for a transitional look and see how it suits you.

#5. Combatant Gentleman Wool Club Jacket — $120

A moto-inspired style done up in a versatile color.

For a brand that’s normally known for its ridiculously affordable suits and trim blazers, Combatant Gentleman has done a nice job expanding into other product categories. And as far as fall style goes, this wool jacket certainly fits the bill. Like the Old Navy piece above, it’s not a style that’s going to turn an incredible amount of heads, but the color is versatile, the fit looks to be trim and it seems to be a nicely functional piece of outerwear. That dark navy color makes it quite sleek, as well.

Putting together this list was definitely a tricky ordeal, as so many brands have really looked to their fall outerwear to set themselves apart. J. Crew Factory, with its Utility Jacket, has certainly done a nice job filling a budget niche. And the entire outerwear collection at Bonobos has some stunning pieces — pricey, but stunning. Be sure to pick up one of these styles now to bridge that gap — and head to this piece on transitional fall style to get a look at how to wear ’em.

Stay stylish and thanks, as always, for reading.

-Beau

October 17, 2015October 16, 2015 by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: GREATS Brand Royale Court

Editor’s note: Expect these posts weekly detailing one standout item coveted by yours truly. Sometimes, these fit within budgetary restrictions and other times, they’re expensive splurges worth saving for. For more Wish List items from Beau, head here, and to see other Style Picks, head here.

An updated take on the classic high-top.

If the brand name above looks a little familiar, that’s understandable. GREATS is a brand that has been featured numerous times here on The Style Guide, and with great reason, as it were. The Brooklyn-based brand is doing things the right way, making high-quality sneakers in a variety of silhouettes at affordable prices. The fact that premium materials and construction to rival that of dress shoes are incorporated into each pair is a definite bonus, too. And the product offering seems to grow each week, as the relatively new GREATS Royale Court release can attest. It joins a lineup that includes the lux Leather Wooster Slip-on and low-profile offerings like the Wilson and the Rosen. Thankfully, there’s really no better time to rock a high-top sneaker than the fall — the cooler temperatures and crisp breezes necessitate footwear that’s functional and stylish, but not as rugged as winter boots.

The Royale Court is also available in a crisp Honey Wheat color, also ideal for fall.

And the Royale Court gets a lot of the details you should look for in a high-top sneaker. That means shying away from athletic sneakers and other kicks you might rock at the gym, and instead looking for something exactly like this GREATS pair. They’re retro without going too over the top, and the matte Graphite color (one of four shades, including a nice red Plum)) helps keep things toned down, although the Honey Wheat offering plays off one of the bigger fall color trends, camel. This pair is pricier than a pair of classic Vans or any of a number of essential sneakers you should own, but you definitely get great quality based on my past experiences with the brand. This particular pair is fully lined in veg tan calf skin and features a premium leather upper, too. In the right color, they’re a set of kicks you could rock with some streamlined dark denim and a herringbone blazer for a high-low Casual Friday — and yet, they’d work just as well with some cargo trousers and a rugged henley. And in that neutral color above and with those quality materials, they’re a pair you should feel free to try out anytime, anywhere.

Would you purchase these high-top sneakers? How would you style them?

October 12, 2015October 12, 2015 by Beau H.

What To Wear Today: Transitional Fall Style

Editor’s note: For more posts covering #WTWT (What to Wear Today), click here.

Are you read for fall? Black suede bomber by Timberland. Slim dark denim by Mott & Bow. Glasses by Warby Parker. Boots by Thursday Boots.

There’s something in the air, isn’t there? A hint of a crisp breeze, maybe a rustle of leaves on the ground — yes? If you responded reasonably to either of these questions, then this is the blog post for you today on The Style Guide. The time between the often-oppressive heat of summer and the first snowfall can (depending on where you live) be rather long, or rather short. Either way, you need gear to get from point A to point B without continually relying on that stash of summer shorts and T-shirts. And given that fall is perhaps the best season for menswear, this is a time to fully embrace the transitional temperatures.

The ideal transitional outfit. Henley by Pistol Lake. Slim dark denim by Mott & Bow. Cotton rugby stripe socks by American Trench. Winston Herringbone watch by KOMONO. Boots by Thursday Boots.

The biggest key in making that transition comes in taking items you’d wear throughout the rest of the year — like a great henley — and repurposing those pieces alongside fall-appropriate textures (and colors, too). Take, for example, the short-sleeve henley you’d wear through the summer. Throw some long sleeves on that bad boy, look for a piece that’s been garment-dyed or incorporates some slight marled texture (Todd Snyder offers a pricey take on this variety) and you’re good to go in terms of casual weekend layering. It also does just fine underneath a sportier crewneck sweatshirt — budget retailers like Old Navy provide a great take on this menswear staple. Of course, no great henley would be complete without that essential fall layer — a terrific bomber jacket (Editor’s note: Look for a full rundown on key jackets for the season next week). Know that these pieces also work for the office, too — you can sub in a rugged chambray shirt and fit right in depending on your office environment.

Of course, if you prefer a lighter top layer, a merino wool cardigan from the likes of JACHS NY (as discussed here) could do just fine, too. Heck, any of the sweaters discussed on this blog last week could work on their own if the temperatures aren’t too biting. And a trusty denim jacket is also always a solid piece to bridge that seasonal gap. But trying to push the envelope (within the reason) is what we’re all about. So if you haven’t given a great bomber jacket a look yet, this fall would be an excellent time to do so. The best bomber jackets are cut slim, with high armholes, relatively trim sleeves and a decently tailored fit through the body — essentially, just as your favorite fall blazer. There are a variety of fabrics and various takes on the bomber, all stemming from either military or athletic styles, but a crisp, fall-appropriate color (like the inky black seen above) and classic detailing never fails — particularly when it comes to this navy suede J. Crew bomber jacket.

A pricey but undoubtedly sleek take on the bomber jacket via J. Crew.

Cheaper options, like H&M’s Wool-Blend Pilot Jacket, are absolutely on the market, but you lose the unique texture of suede. And if you do go the suede route, paying a premium for higher quality is recommended. In fact, J. Crew appears to have that corner of the market covered with this buttoned suede bomber, too. Whichever route you do decide to take, it’s worth noting that any of the styles mentioned above could bring a sharp sportswear edge to something as dressy as a white Oxford, navy knit tie and grey chinos. And the nice thing about a classic jacket is that a quality piece in a neutral color will enhance any other classic staples you decide to stick with — say, that ever-reliable pair of dark denim you should have handy.

Before you drop lots of cash on a thick pair of selvedge denim, it’s worth exploring lower-priced retailers like Uniqlo and Old Navy for classic, well-fitting selvedge though. Mott & Bow’s Slim or Skinny denim offers a different take on the style, too — their jeans are built with a nice bit of stretch for lots of comfort and mobility. In the spirit of jeans that’ll take a beating however, investing in a pricier (yet incredibly high-quality) pair from a retailer like Billy Reid is definitely an option, too. That same pair of dark denim can move seamlessly from the office to the bar when paired with crisp fall essentials — like that chambray shirt or that henley (if your office leans casual or creative). Perhaps the one thing that can really make or break a seasonal outfit is footwear, though. Fall is the optimal time to break out those boots from storage — and the options are numerous if you start out with a solid base (for example, a navy bomber jacket).

Get the most out of your transitional style with some tan suede boots. Pair by Thursday Boots. Patterned socks by Richer Poorer. Slim black jeans by American Apparel.

Get the most out of your transitional style with a grippy pair of tan suede boots. Pictured option by Thursday Boots. Patterned socks by Richer Poorer. Slim black jeans by American Apparel.

With, for example, a navy jacket, a great leather chukka boot is going to be an exceptionally versatile pick — although it all comes down to that jacket, as some might be against pairing a brown leather boot with a black suede jacket, or vice versa. Ultimately though, if the look is casual enough and the occasion calls for it — perhaps out at the bar with friends — that’s one rule it’s OK to break. And some rugged black moc-toe boots as pictured earlier in this post can lend a rugged vibe to an outfit. To avoid any potential pitfalls though, an in-between tan suede captoe boot (like that pair above from Thursday Boots) can really work wonders when it comes time to pull an outfit together. Don’t sleep on the brand’s new Chelsea boots, either. The tan suede matches well with black & brown leather belts, and although it gets a little close in the color wheel to a brown leather jacket, it’s a reliable option that works in a pinch with multiple outfits. And on the boot front, that’s perhaps one place it’s OK to skimp a bit if you throw down some cash on a great bomber jacket (case in point: H&M is even making a dark beige desert boot this season).

Given that multiple textures and potentially even variations on suede are incorporated into this look, playing it simple & classic on the #WatchGame front is advised. A stainless steel dive watch is a style essential that won’t fail you in any situation, be it dressy or casual, and brands like Invicta (as any reader of this site will know!) churn out affordable, reliable dive watches in bunches. By starting out with a neutral base, like a stylish and sleek bomber jacket, you give yourself leeway to work in other rugged-refined items for ensembles that can work in multiple situations, be it in the classroom, trekking through campus or heading out to your local watering hole. And no matter the situation, mixing and matching a few key pieces from the other three seasons should carry you well through this one.

How do you dress to transition through fall? What styles are you looking forward to bringing back out of your closet?

September 23, 2015September 23, 2015 by Beau H.

Online Shopping Picks: Best Men’s Blazers for Fall and Winter

Editor’s note: For a plethora of Online Shopping Picks delving into accessories, footwear and knitwear, head right this way.

Ready to take on fall in this "old" photo circa 2014. Blazer & chambray shirt by J. Crew. Slim jeans by Scotch & Soda. Shawl cardigan by GAP. Knit tie by Frank & Oak. Brown wingtip boots by JC Penney. Photo credit: Khoa Nguyen.

Ready to take on fall in this “old” photo circa 2014. Tan herringbone blazer & chambray shirt by J. Crew. Pocket square by Banana Republic. Slim jeans by Scotch & Soda. Shawl cardigan by GAP. Knit tie by Frank & Oak. Brown wingtip boots by JC Penney. Stainless steel dive watch by Invicta. Glasses by Burberry. Photo credit: Khoa Nguyen.

As is often the case in the world of men’s style, it seems that sometimes the seasons change too quickly — on the writing front, that is. Last week, we tackled excellent henleys to transition into fall weather in earnest (for most of us, at least), and now your humble author will gladly take a stab at the best cold-weather blazers out there on the market — because those things have been on shelves far too long now for you not to buy one, right? Keep in mind that a great lighter weight blazer (one from this list) could definitely transition into the slight chill of fall when layered appropriately. Heck, I even have an unconstructed blazer I’ve worn in the Michigan winter, layered up with a V-neck sweater (of course). But let’s say you want something thicker to stand up to chilly weather — a la the trusty J. Crew blazer (sadly, long gone from shelves) at the top of the page. That’s what this edition of Online Shopping Picks will cover — but you’ll have to foot the rest of the bill for a new jacket. [Editor’s note: Some might take issue with the definition of a blazer here — these styles are sometimes called sportcoats — but we’ll stick with blazer terminology for now. To clear up any confusion, head here].

#1. Uniqlo Wool Blended Comfort Jacket — $99.90

As previously seen on this site’s Fall Style Wish List, Uniqlo delivers on another great fall & winter blazer.

Does this jacket look familiar at all? Of course it does (at least if you caught it at the top of my Fall Style Wish List). Some might have issues with Uniqlo’s fit, as the tail of its jackets and its sleeves generally run a little shorter and slimmer than most, but the brand does make an outstanding jacket (is it a blazer? a sportcoat) for the price. These jackets certainly lean casual given the lack of construction, but in a deeper, saturated shade like the Grey Plaid on the far left or even the Dark Green option as seen on the site, it’s a jacket that could absolutely be paired with dress trousers and some sharp black shoes for the office.

#2. J. Crew Factory Thompson Elbow-patch Sportcoat in Tweed — $168

A four-season shade of navy merged with suede elbow patches for fall and winter.

Rustic, slightly throwback-focused details like suede elbow patches have been making a comeback in clothing items for the past couple years now, and designers aren’t pulling the plug on this added touch just yet. In the case of this blazer, it works quite well, calling to mind old hunting jackets. And this piece has some other things going for it, too — namely, you get J. Crew-like quality at a lower price than some similar models at the big brother retailer. The slightly flashier touch of those elbow patches is grounded by a nice shade of navy, which should work well over dark denim or grey wool trousers. The patches make it more casual and thus a little less versatile — thus dropping it to spot no. 2 here. Still, it’s a jacket that could see a lot of use in the coming months. If you’ve got some bulk to you and want a jacket that ditches the elbow patches, the mainline brand is making a blazer in a similar shade in its roomier, more athletic Crosby fit.

#3. Apolis Indigo Wool Blazer — $388

The ideal balance of tradition and modern style, done up in an on-trend color and luxurious fabric.

Whoa, now. Almost $400 for a blazer? In spot #3? Yes, yes indeed — and here’s why. The argument can definitely be made here for investing in quality pieces that provide a long-term benefit; a terrific wool blazer, sure to be warm, well-made and endlessly versatile, can serve you well for seasons and years to come. And the way Apolis makes ’em, you know you’re getting a quality product. Not everyone has the kind of, er, capital to invest in such a piece, but this option has all the makings of a classic jacket if you do take the plunge. The double vents and deep indigo color make it the closest to a traditional blazer of any of the bunch seen here, yet it leans modern thanks to the slim fit. Wear it with some broken-in denim, wear it with black corduroy pants for some edge — heck, wear it over a T-shirt.

#4. GAP Herringbone Blazer — $89.95

A nice color combo and casual patch pockets make this one blazer to take business-casual … or just casual.

Now, that’s more like it. We turn to a reliable standby at an affordable price for option #4. It’s somewhat concerning that the fit looks a bit … off in these photos, so this might be a good pick to try on in store. The price is not so expensive that it’d be too much of a pain to tailor. But note that the sleeves feature functioning cuffs, which can be an absolute mess to get tailored. However, the fabric blend, cool grey color and patch pockets make this an ideal blazer to throw on over, say, a white Oxford, red V-neck and dark jeans in a business casual setting — if the fit is on-point. Since the patch pockets do push it into casual territory, you could even mix it up and toss it over a long-sleeve henley. A word to the wise — keep your eyes open for the launch of The Hill-side’s capsule collection for GAP very soon; there’s likely to be a great blazer or two in there (Editor’s note: Check out the full rundown via GQ as of 9/23).

#5. Everlane Luxe Sweater Blazer — $165

Part blazer, part sweater and all casual style in one high-quality Everlane piece.

Is this a sweater? A blazer? A swacket? Whatever you call it, the Luxe Sweater Blazer definitely walks the line between casual and crisp style — exactly the type of versatility a nice blazer (or swacket) should provide in the colder months. It should almost wear like the Uniqlo wool blend jacket seen at the top of the page — easygoing enough over a crewneck sweatshirt (for both warmth and casual style), and high-quality enough to pair with a chambray dress shirt. From personal experience with Everlane, its products fit slim, and jackets like these often feature a nice hint of stretch — key when you still need mobility underneath a topcoat. This is one blazer in particular that would pair especially well with high-low combos — think slim chinos plus vintage-inspired runners.

The competition across the board as this post was assembled was pretty cutthroat (or as cutthroat as writing about blazers can be). Brands like Bonobos, with its Italian Knit Blazer, are giving more established brethren like J. Crew a run for their money in the looks (and price) department. As was previously alluded to, The Hill-side is also quickly establishing itself as a player in the splurge blazer game — this Selvedge Mini-Houndstooth Tailored Jacket in Indigo has a great workwear vibe to it, not to mention a high price. Stick to affordable (or at the very least, classic) and versatile options when picking up a great blazer or two this season though, and you’ll reap those rewards as soon as the leaves start to turn.

What’s your go-to fall and winter blazer? Are you planning on refreshing your closet with any of the picks here?

September 12, 2015December 10, 2015 by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Apolis Boiled Wool Sweatpant

Sweatpants as the Style Pick of the Week? Read on to find out why.

So in the span of about a week-and-half or so, it seems we’ve jumped from Labor Day style to the impending return of fall in our collective #menswear minds — right? That brings us to this week’s Style Pick — sweatpants. Not just any sweatpants, though. Apolis really is a remarkable company, one that does more than just put out excellent basics for every lifestyle. They’re committed to ethical practices and social responsibility in manufacturing– and that’s just the start. It should come as no surprise, then, that one of its newest releases is as fairly made as it is stylish. The Boiled Wool Sweatpant takes the typical college-esque silhouette and turns it into something you can feel comfortable wearing outside the house. That’s not the preference for everyone (and tapered sweatpants, or joggers, are certainly divisive), but if you’re going to wear sweatpants, they might as well be made from a premium alpaca fiber and wool blend and cut in a flattering silhouette. Of course, as with most Apolis products, you do pay a price for that quality and craftsmanship — that could be the breaking point for some folks, particularly when it comes to sweats. But that’s why these made the hypothetical Wish List, right?

Features like side-zip pockets make these feel a bit different than your ordinary sweatpant.

As to styling these sweatpants, they’re certainly cut in a trim enough way to mimic some casual get-ups you might wear with dark denim. Think a crewneck sweater and easygoing chambray shirt plus navy runners. Or, style them as a pair of joggers in this post — with leather sneakers and a lightweight military jacket. A vintage-inspired leather jacket and a simple crewneck tee could also look quite sharp. The color options for this particular Apolis pair (navy or charcoal) are neutral enough that they you can push the envelope a bit more, but they’d probably look best with a laidback fall cardigan and a henley. And when it gets colder in the winter (for most of us, that is), they’d be a heck of a cozy option should you need to brave the elements at all. Quantities of this are limited, and that price could stretch some budgets, but for a pair of sweatpants, they’d be worth every dollar.

Would you consider taking the leap on these Apolis sweatpants? How would you style them?

September 7, 2015September 7, 2015 by Beau H.

2015 Fall Style Wish List

Yes, it’s almost here. Does it feel like fall yet? Military jacket pictured by Frank & Oak (October ’13 edition).

It’s always surprising to see how early fall styles start to hit shelves (and E-commerce sites) every year — and it’s a trend that’s shown no sign of letting up. Consequently, I’ve found myself putting together mini-wish lists of sorts related to fall since … about July? That makes it tough on the bank account (and my psyche) to hold out that long, of course. It’s exciting looking ahead though — to many, fall is an optimal season for #menswear, what with a plethora of options for incorporating earthier colors as well as richer textures in everything from corduroy pants to chunkier shawl-collar sweaters and blazers. Spring and summer have their style positives too, of course — airy fabrics and all that potential to play with pops of pattern — but fall just feels right when it comes to men’s style. So without further ado, here’s what I’ve got my eye on for fall — the majority of these are new (or new-ish?) releases and certainly worth a look.

#1. Uniqlo Wool Blended Comfort Jacket — $99

Just three of several outstanding color options, including the Grey Plaid on the left, a nice Wine shade in the middle and a not-so-dark navy.

This Uniqlo blazer has already been a hot seller in some colors, particularly the Wine option pictured above. It’s a wool-blend jacket that perfectly toes the line between casual and crisp — the shorter tail and lack of structure see to that (although that means it might not fit everyone well). It’s available in a wide array of colors, including a grey herringbone, a grey plaid and a classic brown tweed that would look right at home with some dark denim (a la this post). The patch pockets also mean it’s the kind of blazer you could dress down with a rugged henley. Now if only temperatures would drop a bit…

#2. Grayers Avalon Cardigan — $125

A hybrid cardigan that manages to meld casual details and versatile styling potential.

While Grayers has nailed the easygoing prep-casual vibe for spring and summer (as detailed here), it does an equally smart job dishing out fall essentials. This navy marl cardigan features some more unique details that bring it into the casual realm, like kangaroo pockets similar to those on a hooded sweatshirt. The shawl collar and black buttons class it up more, though — it’s definitely a piece that could pair remarkably well with a chambray shirt and dark navy chinos. And, as always, shawl-collar cardigans remain the ultimate cold-weather layering piece for just about anything else – take a tip from this photo, for starters.

#3. Thursday Boots Roughout President Boot — $249

A sleeker profile than most boots gives this pair an edge for fall.

Thursday Boots burst into the digital menswear community late last year with a Kickstarter campaign that really blew the doors off ($276,610 pledged of just a $30,000 goal), and the brand’s really built something since. The brand’s President Boot (a permanent fixture on the site but still worth a look) boasts a lower profile and slimmer silhouette than something like a Red Wing Iron Ranger , minus the captoe. And as far as fall footwear goes, that’s a very good thing. These boots look like they can take a substantial beating, and yet they’d still sit right at home under some textured grey trousers or black denim.

#4. GREATS Brand Royale High Sneakers — $179

The medium grey color should make this pair fit for all kinds of outfit duty, from work to play.

There’s something about high-top sneakers and fall that just goes well together, in my humble opinion. A return to colder temperatures bring about a return to sturdier footwear — and that extends to sneakers, as well. It’s time, then, to put away some of my favorite GREATS sneakers and look forward — or rather, wish for — a new pair in the closet. The Brooklyn-based sneaker gurus appear to have brought their trademark reputation for quality to this high-top set as well, merging a Margom sole with full-grain calfskin leather for a supple sneaker that’s the ideal finishing touch to a sporty-casual outfit (say, some rust chinos and maybe that Grayers cardigan above). That grey color also would help ground earthier tones in an outfit — crucial when you’d like to wear sneakers to the office. (Editor’s note: Look for a travel-centric feature focused on GREATS sneakers coming next month on The Style Guide).

#5. Todd Snyder Mercer Sweatpant in Moss — $175

Just sweatpants, right? Think again, because they combine premium materials and a slim cut — just like your best chinos.

There’s no doubt that I’m a fan of crisp, polished looks — be it a sturdy pair of dark denim or some slim chinos with a blazer. But as the temperatures start to fall, I always find myself drawn to sportier, throwback-oriented looks — like nearly every item from Todd Snyder’s always-stunning collections (and these sweatpants specifically). The offerings always seem to meld American sportswear sensibilities with the designer’s eye for lux finishing touches, yet fall is really where this shines through. Keep in mind, we’re still talking about sweatpants here. And at the end of the day, that’s an awful lot of cash to throw at a pair, when some definitely prefer to keep things crisp throughout an ensemble. But there’s something to be said for upgrading even your most basic items, like sweats. And with a pair this well-made and slim-cut, they’d make for a heck of a casual weekend outfit when paired with a certain set of sneakers on this list (*cough* item number four) and a great cardigan (*cough item number two).

With so much excellent fall gear in stores now, it was definitely tough to sort through this year’s autumn crop (see what I did there?). J. Crew introduced a Ludlow sportcoat in Italian garment-dyed cotton that barely missed the cut, and among highly wearable shirt-jackets, Saturdays NYC looks to again have a winner with its Jeremiah CPO Jacket. Long-term, a classic Shinola leather watch also remains on my wish list (a guy can dream, right?). But with any luck, some of these items will indeed end up in my closet before winter — right?

What’s on your fall style wish list this year? What brands have you been keeping an eye on?

September 4, 2015September 4, 2015 by Beau H.

The Friday Read: Labor Day, Brooklyn Tailors and Fall Florals

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.

With Labor Day weekend upon us, the question is: How will you be spending your final days of summer? And what will you be wearing? For more on what gear to grab, head here. A nice Grayers polo or a great pair of sweatshorts wouldn’t go amiss, I’m sure. On a personal front, it’s set to be a busy weekend for me — I’m heading out to Coney Island Brewing this afternoon to catch up with co-founder Chris Adams for a piece on my friend Pat Evans’ blog Grand Conversations before catching the season opener of my beloved Michigan State Spartans! Always an exciting way to start fall. And then I’m heading back to my favorite state — that would be Michigan — for a family wedding on Saturday (likely including a stop in East Lansing). So it’s set to be a busy one for sure — do you know what you’re style essentials you’re packing in that bag of yours yet? If not, best hop to it. Meanwhile, peruse some weekend reading picks below — wherever you head this week, stay safe and stylish!

Gear Patrol caught up recently with Brooklyn Tailors, who received high praise from the likes of GQ as part of that publication’s 2014 Best New Menswear Designers in America class.
Common Projects, of the legendary and minimal white sneakers you might covet but likely can’t afford, is making an excellent pair of dress shoes — yes, dress shoes — fit for the fall.
If you haven’t swung by Style Girlfriend in a while, or if you haven’t checked out the site at all, it’s worth a look — editor Megan Collins and her team show you how to rock those floral prints into fall.
Style Read of the Week: As you may or may not be aware, I’m a big watch fan — with affordability and versatility in mind, of course. We move away from the typical Long Read and instead direct your attention to five watches every guy should own, as picked by my buddy Barron at Effortless Gent.

That’s about the best of the world of writing + style this week — for more, head here:

Read up on how Goorin Brothers (as featured on this site a few weeks back) is putting its own spin on heritage hats via my latest article for VOUCH Mag.

June 24, 2015June 24, 2015 by Beau H.

Online Shopping Picks: Stylish Men’s Dress Shoes

A shoe for every possibility. Don’t worry — the shoes on this list aren’t that expensive

Editor’s note: For more online shopping picks covering everything from great brands, gift guides and the best warm-weather blazers and shorts, head here.

As I was preparing this post, I got a question from a reader on the very topic about to be addressed below — what’s a great, versatile (second) set of shoes fit for a business casual environment and beyond? Well, that answer’s coming shortly. Meeting the needs of your everyday life while also having a sharp pair on-hand for seasonal occasions, like holidays or weddings, is part of building and maintaining a well-curated closet (although I doubt many of us have space like the above photo!). So with that in mind, I’ve pulled together some picks below that cover both specific occurrences as well as versatile three and four-season picks with a budget in mind. Let me know your thoughts and reach out with any questions via the Contact page!

The Versatile, Everyday Dress/Casual Shoe: Florsheim Jet Chukka, $135

Take your pick of black or brown, and wear ’em with jeans, chinos or a suit.

If you already have an affordable dress shoe that can stand in for everyday wear (like the second option on this list), upgrading to something a bit unconventional is certainly one way to go. The Florsheim Jet Chukka has a sleek toe shape, sharp three-eye chukka boot construction and the ability to be worn both with slim chinos, dress trousers or jeans. This style can even be worn with a suit — just ask James Bond. The price is pretty agreeable for an offering from a respected brand, although on the regular dress shoe front, the Mercanti Fiorentini Wingtip Oxford would also be an exceptionally wearable upgrade for just about $15 more. Don’t sleep on something like the Aston Grey Captoe, either, and a slick Chelsea boot would be an alternative style option to look into as well.

The Budget Dress/Casual Option: JC Penney Stafford Logan Wingtip, $49.99

Fit for weddings, office wear and casual Fridays.

This particular style has made a few appearances on this blog, notably in last fall’s budget style series. It’s received surprisingly solid reviews, similar to the much-loved Stafford Wingtip Boot of old. The quality isn’t anywhere near as strong as the Mercanti Fiorientini Oxford discussed above, but in a pinch, it should provide reliable style for the price. The color, while a little bolder than a more versatile dark brown, should work with everything from lightwash jeans to chinos. It’s also available in Black for that same low, low price — and considering these shoes normally retail for almost twice the current price, it could be wise to pick up a pair now.

The Upgraded Dress/Casual Option: Jack Erwin Adam Wingtip Oxford, $195

It doesn’t get much more classic than a dark brown wingtip at a more premium price.

So let’s say you’re in a unique spot — you can’t quite afford a pair of dress shoes from Allen Edmonds (more on those below) but you want a better-quality pair than the ones listed above. Where do you go? Jack Erwin has you covered. Produced in Spain and designed in New York City, the Adam Wingtip Oxford checks every box you might be looking to fill when hunting for a versatile, affordable shoe. The not-too-dark, not-too-light chestnut brown color, a full-grain calfskin leather upper and a pleasing toe shape allow for wear with everything from a suit to denim and a T-shirt if you’re feeling a bit more bold. The same style is also available in a very continental dark brown suede.

The Casual Three-Season ‘Dress’ Shoe: J. Crew Factory Calvert Suede Oxfords, 98

Dark tan suede + a rubber sole = an Oxford that wears like a desert boot.

Suede is one material that, much like fine leather, fits in just as well during spring & summer as it does during fall. In fact, other than a pair of crisp leather loafers, there might not be a dress shoe more geared toward warm weather than a suede Oxford, like the Calvert from J. Crew Factory. While this pair leans much more casual thanks to a rubber sole, that also makes it a little more versatile. This shoe should wear and feel more like a suede desert boot, making it the perfect lightweight match for a light blue cotton suit and an outdoor wedding, or a pair of lightwash jeans and a short-sleeve henley. Wait for a sale and they could dip below $70. The Kenton Suede Bucks from J. Crew provide similar summer style for about $100 more.

The ‘Serious Investment’ Dress Shoe: Allen Edmonds Fifth Avenue Captoe Oxfords, $385

American-made. Suit-ready. Five color options available.

By far the dressiest and priciest of the bunch, the Fifth Avenue Captoe Oxford is legendary in the premium footwear market for its made-in-America quality and sharp looks. While the brand has something for everybody, (including equally pricey wingtips), this captoe model has been around for decades and continues to hold its own. Considering the price of this shoe, it can and should be worn in as many ways as possible. The captoe is dressier than a plain old wingtip, but with a pair of slim cuffed denim and an unconstructed blazer, it wouldn’t look too out of place. Picking up this pair in black would be conservative on the style spectrum, but if you own one pair of black dress shoes, make it these.

When sorting through the world of men’s dress footwear, there are bound to be brands left out. Banana Republic’s Digby Brogue gets an honorable mention nod, as does the absurdly expensive (yet lovely) Brown Plain Toe Blucher from Oak Street Bootmakers. Out of the above picks however, any option should be able to transition seamlessly from day to night, and from outfit to outfit.

Which of the above pairs is on your must-buy list? Are there any brands you would add? Let me know in the comments!

Need a sharp shirt or weekender bag to go along with your new dress shoes? Take advantage of the exclusive offer below from Ernest Alexander, now through July 31. Happy shopping!

$10 Off a purchase of $100 or more; Free Shipping on orders over $200 at Ernest Alexander Enter promo code: STYLEGUIDE10 at checkout. Valid 06-12-2015 through 07-31-2015

March 7, 2015March 7, 2015 by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: J. Crew Cotton Sweater

Editor’s note: Expect these posts with some regularity 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.

Affordable. Spring-ready. And perfect for fall layering. All in one sweater.

This week’s style pick of the week is on a decidedly more affordable tilt than the somewhat pricey (but no less alluring) Stadium Jacket from Welcome Stranger featured last week. Specifically, the sweater above comes from standout everyman retailer (and personal favorite) J. Crew. The brand does a lot of things great, from its Ludlow suiting collection to casual washed buttondown shirts, sweaters and even a relatively new line of luggage & accessories.

You could absolutely get dressed head-to-toe in J. Crew and go just about anywhere (and I often do just that!). And this sweater would be a great place to start. It also comes in navy or a light tan or “pumice” color, but it’s the rich caramel shade that really caught my eye. The use of cotton should make this sweater light enough to wear in the spring over crewneck T-shirts or a basic buttondown, but that deep color would also fit well layered in the fall under a waxed coat with dark jeans. At $70, it’s a bit of a reach — sales and discounts by the brand should eventually drop that down into the low $50’s, hopefully. With the looks and potential for this piece, it might be gone before then though!

How would you style this sweater? How much J. Crew do you have in your wardrobe?

Stay stylish and have a great weekend!

-Beau

September 8, 2014 by Beau H.

Men’s Style Fall Wish List

Now that Labor Day’s rolled right on by, it’s time to seriously start thinking about snagging some key style pieces for fall. While the eyes of the fashion world have been focuses squarely on spring 2015 this week in New York City, the rest of us should probably be focused on more affordable (and wearable) style than what’s seen on the runways. With that in mind, it’s still important to take stock of what’s currently in your wardrobe, and what could use a refresher — seasonal additions in appropriate colors (like a rich burgundy or a faded indigo) are always a great way to shake things up. And on that note, I’ve had my eye on some purchases for the colder weather; hopefully, some of these picks make it into your closet as well!

Gap Reverse Jersey Shawl Cardigan

A fall (and winter) cardigan thanks to the shawl collar and cream color.

A chunky cardigan is a terrific alternative to a more traditional V-neck sweater, especially with a thicker shawl collar, like this one. In a cream shade, it’s also ideal for fall — it provides a nice contrast to darker, rustic colors, like auburn, burgundy or navy. It would also pair extremely well with a chambray shirt, thanks to the rugged-looking collar and patch pockets. It would also layer well over a henley or under a peacoat (and for more on a nice potential winter coat pick-up, read on below).

John Doe 420 Boot in Brown

A cheaper alternative to Wolverine’s 1000 Mile boot.

While this brand isn’t what you might think of when reaching for a pair of boots (Wolverine’s stellar 1000 Mile collection comes to mind) that’s exactly what makes them a great pick-up. This pair is still a deep, rich shade of brown that’s on-par with the similar Wolverine boots, yet these have a slimmed-down appeal — a less aggressive toe, considerably smaller shoelace eyeholes and a sleeker overall shape. Now, from a brand with arguably less of an emphasis on craftsmanship and less history than another competitor like Wolverine, quality concerns could arise. But as part of a rotation with other boots in the fall, these are most likely a solid pick-up.

Saturdays Surf NYC Ulysses Peacoat

Fit for fall and beyond.

A classic navy peacoat will never really go out of style, but it’s always nice to have a change of pace on hand when needed. This slick-looking option from Saturdays Surf NYC does just the job. Also available in navy, this heather grey number is a visual standout. A slim cut and an additional built-in collar are welcome updates to this classic piece of outerwear, and the price tag is substantially lower than the much-coveted Bond peacoat from Billy Reid — making this a welcome alternative.

Form-Function-Form Button-Stud Burgundy Watchband

Changing up the typical black or brown-leather strap.

While a black or brown-leather watch is great to have on-hand (or on-wrist, rather) for repeated wear, sometimes your watch game needs an update. Much like a patterned watch strap can provide a jolt of color to your spring and summer wardrobe, a unique shade of leather more than gets the job done in the fall and winter. I’ve already got a black-leather strap from form-function-form, and if the quality of this strap is anything like that one, it’ll hold up quite well over time with repeated wear. And the great thing about this shade of burgundy is that it can provide a needed (yet seasonally-appropriate) pop of color against black shoes, while working well with rich shades of brown.

What’s on your fall wish list? Any planned big purchases?

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Tag / fall style