Style Suggestion: What to Wear to the Pumpkin Patch

 Editor’s note: Head over here to see more men’s style suggestions for all sorts of situations.

Now, as I sit here in Brooklyn and write this #menswear style suggestion for fall, there’s nary a pumpkin patch — or a rolling field — in sight. If that’s also the case for you, perhaps we can consider this simply another crisp fall weekend style suggestion. But if you do indeed consider trips to the pumpkin patch (Halloween’s coming!) or corn maze a fall ritual — as I did growing up in the Midwest — we’ve got just the set of picks for you. Granted, we’re looking at pieces that mix the premium with the rugged — these are true style upgrades, and they might be a bit much for the pumpkin patch. In that case, know that they’re still plenty wearable for a plethora of other fall activities. Oh, and if the weather is still balmy in your neck of the woods? Scroll through this warm-weather style suggestion.  Now, back to the matter at hand. Your fall explorations might seem more casual — and thus, just in need of the most comfortable clothing you can wear — but there are several opportunities to (all together now) upgrade your style. From your outerwear to your to your rugged boots, we’ve got a full rundown covered below — and then some. Follow along on Instagram daily to see how I’m attempting to transition to fall, and chime in with your own picks on Facebook.

The Outerwear: JACHS NY Navy Double-Breasted Peacoat — $185

A classic in the perfect weight and cut for fall.

A classic in the perfect weight and cut for fall.

Rather than throwing on a zip-up hoodie or a logo athletic sweatshirt, start with a navy double-breasted cotton peacoat. While it’s not quite as warm as a wool peacoat, it’s better suited to the transitional temperatures of fall — if it’s crisp, you’ve layered up with a sweater underneath that (more on that in a second…), and if it gets hot, you can carry it with you. This particular JACHS NY peacoat is stylish, trim-fitting and well-made, complete with shoulder epaulets for a bit of visual interest. You can’t ask for much more than that, truly.

The Shirt: Taylor Stitch Everyday Chambray Shirt — $118

Stylish, slim-fitting and essential for fall.

Stylish, slim-fitting and essential for fall.

Other than the sweatshirt you’re about to read about below (patience!), there might not be a better pick for a reliable, classic and stylish shirt than this stellar Taylor Stitch Everyday Chambray Shirt. It’s a four-season essential, to be sure, but it wears particularly great in the fall thanks to the slightly heightened blue color, textured fabric and modern fit (ideal for layering). Heck, you might want to wear this shirt … every day?

The Sweatshirt: Todd Snyder x Champion Pocket Sweatshirt — $98 

A classic sweatshirt, redefined for the modern man.

A classic sweatshirt, redefined for the modern man.

The sweatshirt that needs no introduction, ladies and gentlemen. The Todd Snyder x Champion Pocket Sweatshirt basically redefined the traditional crewneck sweatshirt, slimming down the fit, adding raglan sleeves and upgrading it ever so slightly with a chest pocket — oh, and making it using the quality and durability of these particular materials. Yes, that’s why it retails for nearly $100, and that’s why it’s a neat style upgrade.

Buck Mason - Timeless Design. Made in America.
The Denim: Flint & Tinder All-American Slim Tapered Jeans — $98

Your new favorite pair of fall denim, complete with a great price tag to match.

Your new favorite pair of fall denim, complete with a great price tag to match.

The All-American Slim Tapered Jean from Flint & Tinder keeps popping up on this site — check this fall weather style suggestion — and for a very good reason. It’s nay impossible to find a well-made pair of tough selvedge denim for under $100, and these jeans just might be the best of the bunch. They’re slim, they’re stylish and they’re a significant upgrade from casual sweatpants.

The Boots: Johnston & Murphy Karnes Alpine Boot — $198

Sleek, rugged and refined -- very Bond-esque, indeed.

Sleek, rugged and refined — very Bond-esque, indeed.

The heritage footwear makers at Johnston & Murphy don’t skimp on the quality or durability of their boots — particularly not a pair like the rugged, refined and stellar-looking Karnes Alpine Boot. The blend of beautiful mahogany calfskin and dark brown nubuck at the padded ankle collar is an eye-catching, yet durable combination. Make no mistake, this is a very sleek pair of hikers that actually wouldn’t look out of place at the office. Granted, they’re the sort of luxury-type boot Bond might have worn in Scotland — so if you don’t want to get them too muddy, best to go with a dependable pair of broken-in boots.

The Socks: Mr. Gray Slub Nep Colorblock Socks — $25

A bit of colorblocking and a lot of comfort, quality and style.

A bit of colorblocking and a lot of comfort, quality and style.

Every now and then, you just feel like upgrading certain essential pieces in your wardrobe — particularly your sock drawer. The Nep Colorblock Sock from Mr. Gray takes care of that upgrade in comfort and style — and you can wear ’em plenty of different places besides your next outdoor fall adventure. Don’t sleep on thick, durable American Trench Fair Isle socks, either.

The Watch: Lum-Tec Huckberry Combat B33 GMT — $498.98

Durable, rugged, refined and ready for action.

Durable, rugged, refined and ready for action.

Now, if your monthly budget or ability to pay your rent or mortgage might be compromised by buying this watch *raises hand*, keep your credit card in your wallet. If it’s a goal that’s within reach, or you simply enjoy admiring (and buying) beautiful watches, the Huckberry Combat B33 GMT might just be yours to keep. Make no mistake, this timepiece really is something else. It’s a custom-designed timepiece featuring a durable 43mm stainless steel case and a Swiss GMT quartz movement — in short, all the functionality and durability you need for a fall weekend and lugging around some pumpkins.

The Belt: Maximum Henry Slim Standard Belt — $100 (Available via East Dane)

Made by just one man, Maximum Henry's belts use excellent materials and craftsmanship.

Made by just one man, Maximum Henry’s belts use excellent materials and craftsmanship.

The hardworking team (of one!) behind Maximum Henry focuses on making simple, quality belts and leather goods the right way — in very small batches in America. That’s the way to go, and it’s why another Maximum Henry belt popped up in this recent #OOTD. It’s a style upgrade that you might not think about making until you realize this belt will simply last and last — right?

Again, if you’d rather not break out a full kit of menswear to head out this fall, there’s nothing wrong with that – and it’ll probably save you a few bucks in the long run. But if you do decide to go for it when it comes to rugged-refined fall style, the above suggestion contains plenty of pieces that’ll look just as great strolling around town thereafter — or strolling through the park, or grabbing Sunday brunch. Not bad, right? A beautiful, durable watch and an upgraded crewneck sweatshirt are the type of pieces that are enjoyable to wear — in addition to being much better-looking than average pieces. And rugged-yet-refined hikers are slightly unexpected — they’re a weekend staple, but could work in a pinch at the office, too. You can’t beat versatility like that for under $200. And the rest of the way, it certainly pays to support made-in-America artisans. If you have questions, suggestions or additions, let me know on Twitter — will ya??

Happy pumpkin-picking!

-Beau

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Online Shopping Picks: East Dane Event of the Season

Editor’s note: Click through for a full look at other seasonal menswear shopping picks. This post will be updated throughout the day with more picks from the East Dane Fall Sale. 

Here we are again on another lovely day at The Style Guide. Ready to go? More importantly, ready to shop? That’s why we’re here today. Although there’s a whole plethora of digitally shop-able menswear out there, it’s tricky sometimes to get it all in one place. Luckily, that’s where East Dane and the East Dane Event of the Season come into play. Yes indeed, using the code MAINEVENT16 can get you 25 percent off your entire order up to $500, and 30 percent off orders over $500, now through 2am EST (midnight PST) on Sunday, the 16th.  So, those are the nuts and bolts. But what about the clothes? The men’s fashion arm of Amazon takes a premium, nuanced and slick approach to menswear — you get everything from standout Owen & Fred accessories to an array of gear from Todd Snyder to a heck of a selection of durable fall boots, and you get it conveniently under one easily searchable digital roof. Now granted, the site does have some pieces that sway a little more high-fashion (not to mention a tad expensive), but rest assured — whatever menswear itch you might need to scratch, East Dane takes care of it. That made it a pretty difficult endeavor to narrow down their extensive selection to just a relative few picks. But that’s what we did today at The Style Guide — check out a plethora of gear guaranteed to impress for the fall and winter seasons, and beyond. Now, there’s a heck of a lot on the site, so we’re keeping it to the major categories. Shop the East Dane sale while you can, and stick around on Facebook or Twitter for more men’s style tips and advice — yeah?

Outerwear: Z Zegna Light Shell 4-Pocket Field Jacket (Available via East Dane) — $695

A lightweight, city-ready field jacket perfect for layering.

A lightweight, city-ready field jacket perfect for layering.

The Z Zegna Field Jacket is certainly pricey at its normal rate. But given that sale discount, you can snag it now for a much more agreeable price, particularly given the fact that it’s ideal for stylish seasonal transitions. It’s the kind of rare, easily wearable piece from a brand that veers into high-fashion territory. But this field jacket is a simple silhouette with functionality and prime layering potential — especially with fall essentials like a slim henley or a perfect fall cardigan.

Shirting: Z Zegna Slim Poplin Shirt — $245 (Available via East Dane)

Versatile, crisp and essential -- get this pricey poplin shirt for a better deal via this East Dane sale.

Versatile, crisp and essential — get this pricey poplin shirt for a better deal via this East Dane sale.

Is it worth it to spend more than $200 for a white poplin shirt? Ehh, depending on your financial situation, that’s … debatable. But when said white poplin shirt goes on sale? That’s much more agreeable. There’s nothing overly fancy about this shirt, but then again — simple style is sometimes the best. A crisp white (or navy, or black) poplin shirt can pair up with a slim crewneck sweater and leather sneakers on the weekend, it can team with a fall blazer on chilly work days, and it can work when worn untucked with garment-dyed chinos (like in this look). That’s a lot of versatility for one shirt, which justifies the price.

Footwear: Lacoste L. 12.12 Leather Sneakers — $170 (Available via East Dane)

Crisp, easily wearable sneakers at a decent price.

Crisp, easily wearable sneakers at a decent price.

Sizing for these sneakers is already a bit limited, so it’s advisable that you hop on them quickly. A crisp pair of leather sneakers can work wonders in terms of style and versatility even during the colder fall months — wear this navy pair with grey chinos and a tan herringbone wool blazer, and pair them up with a slim cardigan and dark blue denim on the weekends. The price is pretty agreeable for a premium sneaker offering, and it gets you closer to that $500 threshold for 30 percent off, as well. And if you find yourself gravitating more towards boots? Start with our picks for stylish chukka boots.

Accessories: Michael Kors Paxton Watch — $195 (Available via East Dane)

Reasonably priced, surprisingly durable and fit for fall style.

Reasonably priced, surprisingly durable and fit for fall style.

Featuring a black case-and-dial combo and a striking cognac leather strap, this watch is the sort of affordably priced addition to your collection that you didn’t know you needed. Granted, it’s not as affordable as a classic Timex (or even the Timex x Red Wing Waterbury collection), but with 100 meters of water resistance, a slightly unexpected black-and-cognac combination and an easily wearable, classic dial design, it could be worth adding it to your cart this time around.

Bottoms: Todd Snyder + Champion Sweatpants — $118 (Available via East Dane)

Premium sweatpants -- there certainly is such a thing thanks to Todd Snyder & Champion.

Premium sweatpants — there certainly is such a thing thanks to Todd Snyder & Champion.

There’s certainly a ton of Todd Snyder + Champion gear available at nice prices, but if you’ve yet to pick up any of the brand’s knitwear, you’re missing out. Is $100-plus a lot for sweatpants? It certainly is, but if you want to upgrade your casual wear, a pair of these sweatpants is the way to go. Featuring an indigo dye and made out of French terry, they’re both more comfortable and better-looking than whatever sweatpants might be in your drawer right now — ya dig? And again, they’ll help you get over that $500 mark to tip off more discounts. Not a bad thing, ehh?

So, there we go — sorting through a big sale such as the East Dan Event of the Season can be a big endeavor. But as the (hopefully) condensed post above goes to show, it all starts with narrowing down your focus and checking out key categories — and you’d be surprised what you’ll find when you dig a little deeper in bigger sale events. Are you shopping the East Dane Event of the Season? Let me know what you’re picking up in the comments below, or over on The Style Guide Facebook page.

Thanks, as always, for reading — see you for our weekly menswear recap on Friday!

-Beau

Standby, folks — more picks to come!

Bring on October: An early fall weekend in New York

Editor’s note: Click here for another seasonal men’s style post. Thanks to Forever21 Men for providing specific products featured in this post. Thanks for supporting the brands that support The Style Guide!

Getting around town in style with the Karnes Alpine Hiker thanks to Johnston & Murphy. Head to the brand's new NYC menswear store at 200 5th Avenue if you get the chance! Ivy Blazer by Grayers. Blue Oxford by JackThreads. Silver knit tie by Banana Republic. Trusty 508 Jeans by Levi's. Glasses by Frameri.

Getting around town in style for a family weekend with the Karnes Alpine Hiker thanks to Johnston & Murphy. Head to the brand’s new NYC menswear store at 200 5th Avenue if you get the chance! Ivy Blazer by Grayers. Blue Oxford by JackThreads. Silver knit tie by Banana Republic. Trusty 508 Jeans by Levi’s. Glasses by Frameri.

There are several things I’ve been eagerly awaiting these past few weeks, from an amazing Lucius concert in New York City to a proper transition to fall style and notably, my family’s visit to the Big Apple this past weekend. My mom and sister joined me in exploring in NYC this past May (dressed in style, of course), and although I saw my family in Florida at the end of August, it was a much-needed and ultra-fun weekend in my adopted home this time around. And the highlights were certainly aplenty for a relatively quick four-day trip — starting with the neat event pictured at the top of the page (more in a minute). My parents and sister joined me in Brooklyn at my humble abode (the backdrop to my Instagram photos, as it were), and we really did pack a lot into their trip — we’re talking everything from Broadway shows to NYC exploration and of course, a crucial Sunday brunch. It was a lot to take in, so I brought my A-plus #menswear game — and then some.

My family arrived into town on Thursday, right as I was taking part in a very cool event — perhaps the neatest thing I’ve had the chance to do in my part-time gig as a style writer (oh, and pictured at the top of the page). Heritage menswear brand Johnston & Murphy just opened up a dedicated men’s shop in the Big Apple, offering up the brand’s excellent and affordable footwear, accessories and apparel in a refined, unique environment — it’s at 200 5th Avenue in NYC, when you happen to make it out here (if you’re already out East, get there — STAT!). With that in mind, they brought together a group of men’s style bloggers & writers — like yours truly — to participate in a neat menswear stunt — we’re talking jaunting around town accompanied by a bike-riding shoe-shiner, all the while decked out in stellar J&M boots. I tested out the Karnes Alpine Boot for the occasion — the beautiful quality and construction sets these apart, and they’re a steal for under $200. They’re super comfortable, to boot (pun intended!). With the event came the chance to pair up some favorite style essentials for moving to and from the office — including the lightweight, breathable Grayers Ivy Blazer, a well-worn and appropriately classic pair of Levi’s 508 Jeans and the simple, equally classic JackThreads Oxford Shirt, plus a Banana Republic knit tie (an oldie, but a goodie).  It was a great afternoon, and a very fun event in which to participate! Definitely stay tuned for more Johnston & Murphy-related content throughout the rest of the fall — the brand’s gear is just that well-made!

Of course, stopping at Johnston & Murphy and then heading back to the office made for a busy afternoon, as I caught up with my family to recap the day at Fraunces’ Tavern, a revered American tavern in operation since 1762 — yes, 1762! It’s a living, breathing part of American history — and it’s immortalized in the smash hit musical “Hamilton,” to boot.  A pro tip — they also feature the American outpost of the standout Porterhouse Brewing Company, and the restaurant’s New York strip is incredible. The historic ambience is incredible in and of itself, and the location will certainly make you feel patriotic!

The latest Style Pick? A pair of stunning American-made sneakers: The Danner x New Balance miUSA 585. Button Denim Jacket by Forever21. Heather Grey Henley and Bowie Fit Stretch Cotton Chinos by JACHS NY. Waterbury Chrono from the Timex x Red Wing Heritage collab. Glasses by Frameri.

The latest Style Pick? A pair of stunning American-made sneakers: The Danner x New Balance miUSA 585. Button Denim Jacket by Forever21. Heather Grey Henley and Bowie Fit Stretch Cotton Chinos by JACHS NY. Waterbury Chrono from the Timex x Red Wing Heritage collab. Glasses by Frameri.

Although it was a busy — and rather exhausting — Thursday, the weekend was in sight on Friday, which called for a mix of sporty and classic style to take on a day at the office and a night out in NYC. Knitwear from JACHS NY is a great bet for the changing seasons — the brand uses a nice blend of premium fabrics and neat, heritage-inspired touches. The slanted chest pocket on the Heather Grey Long-Sleeve Henley is but one example, and the fabric quality in that particular piece is definitely on-point. It was a comfortable mid-layer beneath my brand-new Forever21 Button Denim Jacket (thanks to the brand for supplying!). When teamed with my JACHS NY Forest Green Bowie Fit Stretch Cotton Chinos, the ensemble worked well for what the day had in store. In fact, I’d recommend you reach for similar transitional, long-lasting pieces for casual Friday, and in that regard, my sneaker choice more than fit the bill.
Buck Mason - Timeless Design. Made in America.
In fact, they’re a pair I’d say you should look into — the Danner x New Balance miUSA 585 is a hot-off-the-press collaboration effort between two brands that share a love of American craftsmanship, heritage and style. The sneakers are nothing short of a brilliant master class in long-lasting construction, durability and of course, stellar looks. New Balance’s ROLLBAR technology offers cushioning and support, while the Horween leather and ballistic nylon on the upper are seriously tough. Plus, it’s a really versatile sneaker, with the comfort of a Danner hiking boot and the style of a set of New Balance kicks. I could go on, but know that they more than lived up to the task of getting to and from the office and around NYC in the evening after.

saturday-grid-photo

The ideal outfit for getting around NYC and checking out two Broadway shows. Slim-Fit Striped Burgundy Shirt c/o Forever21 Men. Garment-dyed chinos by Dockers. Brown leather watch by MVMT Watches. Brown leather Chelsea boots by JackThreads. Pen by Owen & Fred.

A busy Friday night led quickly into a great Saturday around New York City — just as with my family’s May trip, we took full advantage of the opportunity to take in not one, but TWO fantastic Broadway shows through the weekend. First up on the agenda — a once-in-a-lifetime trip to see the revered much-loved and all-around legendary “Hamilton” at the Richard Rodgers Theatre again; just as seeing it in May was an entirely unexpected and incredible treat (thank you, Dad!), getting the chance to see it once more was just as unexpected, just as breathtaking and just as incredible. It’s intense, it’s powerful, it’s dramatic and it makes you want to learn more about the history of our country! How cool. It’s truly a gem — every bit as good as advertised. And our second Broadway show was nearly just as momentous — the extraordinary “Cats,” a revered musical making its return to the stage in NYC after about 15 years away. Fun fact: In my first family trip to New York City back in 2000, my family and I also saw “Cats” — things really do come full circle! All that Broadway show-hopping — and a stop for a delicious dinner at the Glass House Tavern — called for sharp, easygoing style. The Slim-Fit Striped Cotton Shirt (courtesy of Forever21), helped me meet the occasion in style on my top half — particularly when matched up once again with my trusty Grayers Ivy Blazer. Slim Dockers garment-dyed chinos also teamed up nicely with the versatile, refined JackThreads Kimbo Chelsea Boot, which features quality leather, a sturdy rubber sole and the kind of styling potential you can’t get with just any pair of $110 boots.

sunday-brunch-update

An outfit ready to take on Sunday brunch. Button Denim Jacket by Forever21 Men. Cable Sweater by Dockers. White Oxford by Todd Shelton. Grey chinos by JACHS NY. Grounder High-Tops by Todd Snyder x P.F. Flyers. Mod Watch by Timex x Todd Snyder. Glasses by Frameri.

Both shows were an absolute joy to watch — I consider myself first and foremost a big-time menswear fan, but to be around a packed theater of fans who appreciate Broadway was pretty cool (to say the least). And again, seeing “Hamilton” for a second time — just extraordinary. The fantastic trip — and a delicious brunch to cap it off — came to an end all too quickly, but for my family’s last half-day in the city, I still did the best I could in all things #menswear. That meant grabbing a clean-cut essential, the Todd Shelton Classic White Oxford, and pairing it up with a premium Dockers sweater (the one pictured is sold-out, but the rest of the brand’s offeirngs are on-point). It was unfortuately rainy and chilly, so that weather made it ideal to break out yet another neat layering piece courtesy of Forever21, the Forever21 Buttoned Denim Jacket. I threw on a sharp-as-heck timepiece (that would be the Timex x Todd Snyder Mod Watch), and along with my  Grey Bowie Fit Stretch Cotton Chinos from JACHS NY, I was well and truly set for exploring Brooklyn. That meant, among other blogging pursuits, grabbing a critical brunch Bloody Mary at Building on Bond and generally enjoying the comfort and style of my Todd Snyder + P.F. Flyers Grounder Hi-Top sneakers. Seriously, grab a pair of those sneakers and resist the urge to pair them with just about everything you own.

The weekend definitely came to an end too quickly, but with the chance to catch up with my family, take in two amazing, thrilling Broadway shows and explore some NYC landmarks both new and old, it was one of the highlights of this year. There are always new adventures to have in the city, and to be able to experience those with my family — and with some great gear — is very cool. For more personal style tips, head to Instagram, and follow along with #menswear on the daily via Twitter.

Until the next weekend of adventures — stay stylish,

-Beau

P.S. Check back here tomorrow for a weekend-centric #OOTD, and a terrific men’s style shopping suggestion on Wednesday.

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

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

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

#1. JackThreads Fair Isle Cardigan — $79

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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