Gentlemen (and ladies), let’s get ready for the Fourth of July — we’re letting the figurative menswear fireworks fly today, so to speak. If that strikes you as an odd proposition, what with the Fourth of July being so casual, bear with me for a moment. Just like dressing for a casual summer Friday or upgrading your weekend style, stepping out for a scenario like the Fourth of July calls for paying a bit more attention than usual to your outfit. That extra attention to detail definitely pays off, because it pays to look your best, always … even if your friends or family are taking it easy. Make no mistake, I’m not talking something way over-the-top — no, sir. Today’s #OOTD starts with a military-inspired jacket, features a mighty fine pair of slim grey chinos from Taylor Stitch, and finishes with classic brown leather sneakers — see, there’s nothing overly fancy about that. Just good, clean, all-American style that’ll look great at a BBQ or bonfire, and especially stylish for fireworks later on. What say you? Let me know on Twitter whether or not you dig this look.
A tough jacket, a classic T-shirt and slim chinos are staples any day of the week — especially for the Fourth of July.
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The Jacket: Relwen Sailcloth Tanker, $252 — There’s a chance that the Fourth of July could be slightly chilly or breezy, especially if you spend it near the water. The tough Relwen Sailcloth Tanker is a perfect travel jacket, and rugged enough to do it all.
- The T-shirt: Faherty Brand Indigo Pocket Tee, $51 — Nothing wrong with throwing on a classic T-shirt here. The Faherty Brand Indigo Pocket Tee features excellent fabric and a modern fit — ideal for layering.
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The Chinos: Taylor Stitch Slim Chinos in Ash, $98 — While you could easily throw on slim shorts here, these Taylor Stitch chinos provide you with more versatility (not to mention protection from bug bites).
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The Sneakers: Nisolo Diego Low Top Sneakers in Tobacco, $148 — Stylish leather sneakers, especially ones with slightly more rugged design details, offer mobility and comfort. Nisolo’s Diego Low Top Sneakers get the job done. Better than flip-flops, right?
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The Socks: CHUP Volant Socks, $32 — Particularly if you’re visiting friends or relatives, you want look sharp even without shoes on — the CHUP Volant Socks are tasteful and quite stylish.
- The Belt: Cause and Effect Leather Belt in Vintage, $130 — Thanks to the aged leather and high-quality construction, Cause and Effect has come up with what could be one of the best leather belts out there — ideal for standing apart from the crowd, in the best way, on the Fourth of July.
- The Watch: Timex Archive Navi Watch, $135 — Sporty, durable and ideal for wearing on or near the water, the Timex Archive Navi Watch harnesses all-American style for July 4th.
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The Essential: Taylor Stitch Drop Point Knife, $68 — You never know when you might need the Taylor Stitch Drop Point Knife around your Fourth of July campfire or fireworks celebration. Right?
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The Hat: Corridor NYC Cap in Indigo, $45 — Last but certainly not least … the Corridor NYC Cap in Indigo keeps the sun of your face while providing understated, made-in-America style. Not bad at all.
As with any #OOTD, the keys to getting it right often start with the basics — fabric, fit, quality … you know the drill. For dealing with breezy evenings and potentially some rain (not ideal for the Fourth!), the Relwen Sailcloth Tanker is a tough-as-heck, stylish-as-heck top layer. The Faherty Brand Indigo Pocket Tee perfectly accents the more rugged nature of your outerwear pick — it’s laidback, easygoing and cool enough to wear on its own at the beach or pool. They’re certainly a bit dressier than you might expect for the Fourth of July, but the Taylor Stitch chinos shown here pack a serious punch if you want one pair of pants to wear for holiday travel … and then post-travel happy hour. Plus, the seriously cool, rich leather on the Nisolo Diego Sneakers helps set ’em apart from other sneaker options out there — always ideal if you’re trying to pack light for a weekend trip. I’m also all about high-quality socks, like the CHUP Volant Socks, a perfect example of getting the details right. That’s also why an eye-catching belt, like the one from Cause and Effect shown here, is such an essential piece for a casual holiday. And although the Taylor Stitch Drop Point Knife might not be the first thing that comes to mind when dressing for the Fourth of July, you might be surprised at how versatile it can be if needed. Finish off this casual, rugged look with the Corridor NYC Cap in Indigo — a perfect “dad cap,” even if you don’t happen to be a dad. So, tell me: How are you dressing for the Fourth of July? Weigh in over at The Style Guide Facebook page. Cheers!
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