Tag / huckberry

by Beau H.

Style Suggestion: What to Wear to Your Holiday Party

Can you believe the holiday season is upon us? Here at The Style Guide, we absolutely love the holidays — and by we, I mean me. From holiday travel to composing my Holiday Style Wish List, it’s an absolute treat of a time. In addition to looking forward to time spent with loved ones, you should also keep a weather eye out for ways to improve and upgrade your style — especially at this crucial time of year. Yes, it’s a time when you’re dealing with (likely) inclement weather, a bit (or a lot) of travel, gift-giving and plenty more — not to mention a work holiday party that often pops up when you might least expect it (or least look forward to it?). It’s also a time to make sure your style doesn’t stray into overly, err, holiday-esque territory — so, a reindeer sweater is overdoing it just a bit. To get you ready for that inevitable invite in fine fashion, we’ve pulled together one heck of a style suggestion — it’s a bit dressier than your everyday rugged favorites on this here blog, but you’ll be all the better for it. And as you’ll see below, it takes tried-and-true layers — like the classic V-neck sweater — and upgrades them with winter-ready shirting and accessories. Can’t wait to see it? Good. Me neither! Follow along on Instagram and Twitter for more daily style inspiration, and chime in on this suggestion via The Style Guide’s Facebook page.

The Topcoat: JackThreads Tieman Topcoat — $149

Smart, stylish, affordable and easy to wear with a suited holiday look.

Smart, stylish, affordable and easy to wear with a suited holiday look.

Is it any surprise that the great team at JackThreads has absolutely knocked it out of the park with the Tieman Topcoat? It shouldn’t be — the brand’s menswear-focused revamp has been a welcome addition to the digital style scene across the past year, and this handsome, eye-catching double-breasted topcoat is Exhibit A in that regard. It’s no Canada Goose parka in terms of battling extreme conditions, but thrown on over a suit on a crisp winter’s night? You just might have the nicest jacket at the party, fella.

The Suit: Taylor Stitch Telegraph Jacket and Trousers in Grey Wool — $456

https://www.idevaffiliate.com/31555/idevaffiliate.php?id=607&url=11319

A refined suit made with premium materials for under $500? You betcha.

Would you believe that Taylor Stitch makes a heck of a beautiful fall and winter suit in addition to their classic chambray shirts and rugged slim chinos? It’s true, and that’s what makes the Telegraph Suit such a worthy pick-up. The brand took plenty of customer feedback and incorporated it into a suit that manages to merge the modern — a slim fit — with the classic — patch pockets and textured fabric. It’s a classic suit that’ll serve you nicely throughout the rest of the winter season — and it’s the right choice here because of its terrific fit and styling potential. It’s neither too stuffy nor too sloppy, and the Telegraph Suit is certainly a steal for under $500 via Huckberry.

The Sweater: J. Crew Italian Cashmere V-neck Sweater — $225

A slightly unexpected color that plays nicely off the blue shirt and grey wool suit.

A slightly unexpected color that plays nicely off the blue shirt and grey wool suit.

There’s no question that J. Crew knows how to do luxurious basics well. Is $225 a lot for a sweater, as we always ask ourselves? Yes, it certainly is — but finding an Italian cashmere sweater for less than that is a bit of a difficult endeavor. The rich Heather Laurel color seen here is a great complement to the grey wool suit and darker blue shirt. Plus, it adds a bit of contrast to the tan plaid tie. Green and blue is a bit of a unique color combination, but it works here — and the sweater will keep you nice and warm underneath your Taylor Stitch suit and topcoat.

The Shirt: Cordings for J. Crew Shirt in Warm Twilight — $128

A dress shirt with some texture and a pleasing winter-ready color.

A dress shirt with some texture and a pleasing winter-ready color.

What better way to complement a classic winter-weight suit than with a sharp blue dress shirt in a textured fabric? J. Crew always seems to do an impressive job with its third-party collaborations, and the Cordings for J. Crew partnership is the latest addition to that roster. Cordings brings its own classic British sensibility to sharp tailoring, and that makes this shirt both traditional and modern. It’s the perfect complement to a deep green sweater — the combination is unique, but works with the darker tones of winter.
Huckberry
The Tie and Pocket Square: Ties.com Tan Plaid Brussels Tie ($25) and Florence Pocket Square ($10)

A plaid tie and a floral pocket square? Give it a try.

A plaid tie and a floral pocket square? Give it a try.

In keeping with the crisp cold-weather vibes of the season, we’re reaching for two pieces here that nod to the holidays without going full-on Santa Claus. The Tan Plaid Brussels Tie is affordably priced in a  nice plaid wool that contrasts with the grey wool suit and blue shirt — it’s a bit of an unexpected color pairing. And the patterned blue pocket square plays nicely off the lighter blue shirt. You’re looking at two patterns that at first might not work together, yet up against a grey wool suit, the combination is a fresh, affordable one. Right?

The Boots: CAT Footwear Sutter Boots in Rust — $210

Just as ready to wear with a winter suit as they are with tough dark denim and a henley.

Just as ready to wear with a winter suit as they are with tough dark denim and a Henley.

Remember seeing the rugged, refined and tough-as-nails CAT Footwear Sutter Boot in this site’s post on the best men’s boots for fall? Of course you do. Although at first this 6-eye, burnished boot might seem too rugged to wear a suit, fear not. The rougher texture of the suit, shirt and tie lend themselves well to a durable, handsome boot. Plus, the higher cut of these boots gives you added traction and grip should the weather turn inclement. If you find yourself in a warmer climate? Ditch the boots for a pair of crisp leather wingtips and perhaps swap out the wool suit for some slim stone chinos and a lightweight navy blazer. Ya dig?

The Socks: American Trench Pima Cotton Houndstooth Socks — $23.98

american-trench-pima-cotton-houndstooth-socks

 American Trench consistently delivers on premium, American-made socks — that goes for  both the brand’s casual varieties and dressier iterations. Take these comfortable Pima Cotton Houndstooth Socks  — the navy pattern plays nicely off the blue shirt and grey wool suit, not to mention the patterned pocket square. They’re an investment for a pair of socks, but they’re one that’s worth it — you can wear sharp, subtly stylish socks like this with all sorts of winter work week outfits.
A classic, affordable dress belt and a go-anywhere watch.

A classic, affordable dress belt and a go-anywhere watch.

Make no mistake, your Style Guide author is as much of a fan of classic dress watches from the likes of Daniel Wellington as you are. But given that we’re going with a more rugged outfit — from the textured shirt and tie to the grey wool suit and boots — a sport-inspired, tough chronograph fits right in. The great thing about the Armogan Spirit of St. Louis Chronograph is the rich contrast between the black dial and brown leather strap — it’s a pairing that works surprisingly well together. Of course, you can never go wrong with an affordably priced J. Crew Factory leather belt fit for both business casual and slightly dressier looks.
So, that’s your Holiday Style Suggestion all sorted out. A slim V-neck sweater adds a bit of visual interest to a rich grey Telegraph Suit from Taylor Stitch, and both the shirt and tie bring seasonally appropriate texture. The thing to keep in mind is that even at an investment-level price, the Telegraph Suit  is more than just a one-trick pony. That is, you can break up the jacket and pair it with Mott & Bow denim and a classic white Oxford (plus, those durable Sutter Boots from CAT Footwear) during the regular work week, too. And the handsome, refined Armogan Spirit of St. Louis Chronograph is an absolute keeper in terms of both durability, style and versatile looks. Oh, and those Pima Cotton Houndstooth Socks? Once you’ve tried socks from American Trench, you might never go back. As always, you can’t go wrong with a refined, versatile JackThreads topcoat, either. Let me know in the comments how you’re dressing for your holiday party — and as always, stay stylish!

by Beau H.

Turkey time: Celebrating a Florida Thanksgiving

A sporty, stylish combination. Polo by QOR. Capital Shorts by OLIVERS Apparel. Gratton Sneakers by Fronteer. Calypso Watch by MVMT Watches. Sunglasses by Nautica.

A sporty, stylish combination for a sunny long weekend in Florida. Heather Merino Knit Polo by QOR. Capital Shorts by OLIVERS Apparel. Gratton Sneakers by Fronteer. Calypso Watch by MVMT Watches. Sunglasses by Nautica.

Whenever I hit the road, I always look forward to packing in style. And when I get the chance to head south to Florida, visit with family and chow down on amazing Thanksgiving food? That’s all the better. Spending the holidays in a warm-weather locale like Florida is a change of  pace from your Style Guide author’s past holidays growing up in Michigan, so the garb I packed with me has changed accordingly over the years. It’s a bit disconcerting sometimes to go from rugged fall style in NYC to spending time on the beach in Florida, but I always look forward to doing so. And just as with my August trip to Florida, I loaded up plenty of warm-weather gear fit for versatile style situations — including Thanksgiving dinner, brewery-hopping and lots of time spent in the sun.

Gear for the office, a flight and Florida style. Crosstown Bomber by Public Rec. Slim-Fit Tapered Leg 5-Pocket Pants by Dickies. Strayhorn Mid Sneakers by JackThreads. Waterbury Chrono by Timex x Red Wing Heritage. Sunglasses by Nautica. Chapter Travel Kit by Herschel Supply Co.

Gear for the office, a flight and Florida style. Crosstown Bomber by Public Rec. Slim-Fit Tapered Leg 5-Pocket Pants by Dickies. Strayhorn Mid Sneakers by JackThreads. Waterbury Chrono by Timex x Red Wing Heritage. Sunglasses by Nautica. Chapter Travel Kit by Herschel Supply Co.

As always with traveling from NYC to a warm climate like Florida, I sought to pack gear that would move seamlessly from a chilly NYC work day to breezy Florida in style. That meant selecting the ever-versatile, comfortable Public Rec Crosstown Bomber— it’s the sort of jacket that layered easily over my classic Old Navy chambray shirt. And my Dickies Slim-Fit Tapered Leg 5-Pocket Pants were more than ready for a day at the office and a flight back home, as were my new CLAE x JackThreads Strayhorn Mid Sneakers. The chukka-style hybrid silhouette and grey wool upper proved stylish for the work day and helped me breeze through security. And, I had to bring along my Timex x Red Wing Heritage Waterbury Chrono for a dash of rugged-refined style for the office and fall travel. On the footwear front, I had to break out my Jack Erwin Cooper Boat Shoes from storage — the next time you’ve got to tackle warm weekend weather in style, you should look to pack a similar pair. Of course, I took along toiletries from the likes of Nivea for Men — the brand’s Creme works as a hand, body and face moisturizer, so it’s a do-it-all travel essential. And throughout my trip, my retro-inspired Nautica sunglasses and the slick, new MVMT Watches Runaway Aviators proved stylish accessory options for the Florida sun. Seriously, never underestimate the power of a stylish pair of men’s sunglasses.  So, with stylish travel gear in tow and a quick flight home in the books, it was onto a fun Thanksgiving holiday weekend.
Huckberry
The day on Wednesday — as one would expect — dawned sunny and pretty hot. With that in mind, I reached for the stretchy, stylish and tailored OLIVERS Apparel Capital Short, as seen at the very top of the page. The versatile color paired up well with another sport-inspired, hybrid piece — a new Heather Merino Knit Polo from performance apparel purveyors QOR. Its tailored look is offset by the merino blend fabric, which wicks sweat and dries quickly. And the comfortable combo paired up well with a new set of kicks — the FRONTEER Super Gratton high-top sneakers, provided courteously by the FRONTEEER team. With their unique design and a silhouette inspired by functional outdoor boots, they’re a nice lifestyle hybrid sneaker. They worked for grabbing a delicious Maple Bacon Donut at the renowned Bennett’s Fresh Roast and hitting the beach. For hitting up Fort Myers Brewing Company later, the brand-new Calypso Watch from the recently launched MVMT Watches Modern Sport collection was a prime, affordable pick. It was also a nice chance to break out a stylish pair of retro-inspired sunglasses from Nautica, and the combination of sport-inspired and functional pieces held up well for Florida exploration — and a few outdoor brews!

florida-thursday-photo-edited

Hanging out in classic Florida fashion. Thomas Pacific Latitude Shirt by Bridge & Burn. Slim Chinos in Light Stone by Taylor Stitch. Cooper Boat Shoes by Jack Erwin. Runaway Aviators by MVMT Watches. Waterbury Chrono by Timex x Red Wing Heritage.

And with an enjoyable Wednesday in the books, it was onto an even more enjoyable Thanksgiving. Now, unlike dressing for a casual fall day, our Florida Thanksgiving celebrations required significantly fewer layers than an NYC November day. With that in mind, it made it easy to reach for the Thomas Pacific Latitude Print Shirt, also from Bridge & Burn. Although that shirt is sold out, you can’t go wrong reaching for any of a selection of similar stylish short-sleeved shirts the next time you find yourself in a warm locale for a holiday. The same goes for the ever-classic Taylor Stitch Slim Chinos in Light Stone — any chance you get to pick up durable, high-quality and classic Taylor Stitch menswear (especially the brand’s lauded chinos), I’d recommend you take it. I found the combo worked quite nicely once again with my Jack Erwin Cooper Boat Shoes and the always-stylish  Timex x Red Wing Heritage Waterbury Chrono for eating second (and third) helpings of Thanksgiving dinner.  And the whole ensemble was polished-yet-casual enough for family Thanksgiving — no expandable waistband in sight on those Taylor Stitch chinos, although it would’ve helped.

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Brewery hopping in the Florida sun. Vesper Polo by Mack Weldon. Stringer Dune Shorts by Bridge & Burn. Cooper Boat Shoes by Jack Erwin. Mod Watch by Timex x Todd Snyder. Vintage ballcap by Goorin Brothers. Glasses by Frameri.

Of course, Friday presented another absolutely beautiful Florida day, and a prime chance to break out some of my best warm-weather menswear again for a little in-person Black Friday shopping and strolling. (And, let’s be honest — a trip to the excellent Big Blue Brewing was in order). The lightweight, breathable and slim Vesper Polo from the fine folks at Mack Weldon was just what the doctor ordered — and it teamed nicely with my ever-essential Stringer Dune Shorts from Bridge & Burn. It was a bit strange to wear warm-weather gear after a chilly NYC fall, but I adjusted easily thanks to stylish pieces like the always-reliable Jack Erwin Cooper Boat Shoes — they’re the rare type of boat shoe that’s refined, and exceedingly easy to wear for both beachside and city exploration. What’s more, my always-reliable Timex x Todd Snyder Mod Watch had to make the trip, too — I think if you pre-order one for yourself, you’ll be mighty surprised at just how much you’ll be reaching for this casual-yet-versatile timepiece. I’d also recommend you reach for an upgraded, subtly designed ballcap if you need to protect your face from the sun — my Goorin Brothers vintage ballcap (unfortunately sold out now) is a perennial favorite. To snag a similar style for yourself, check out the Huckberry Explorer’s Cap. With that gear in tow, it made for a fun, easygoing day strolling around the neat artists’ village of Matlacha — and if ever you find yourself in the Fort Myers area, Point Ybel Brewing is worth a stop to cap off your day.

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In awe of the amazing creations at the American Sandsculpting Championship. Anything Shirt by Strongbody Apparel. Chambray shorts by Canvas by Lands’ End. Cooper Boat Shoes by Jack Erwin. Mod Watch by Timex x Todd Snyder. Vintage ballcap by Goorin Brothers. Sunglasses by Nautica.

And no Florida trip would be complete without a little beach relaxation and a trip to the American Sandsculpting Championship on Fort Myers Beach — right? I made sure to bring along stylish beach gear for some fun in the sun. That gear included the comfortable, sweat-wicking Anything Shirt by Strongbody Apparel, plus a pair of tailored chambray shorts from Canvas by Lands’ End. Of course, my Cooper Boat Shoes helped me out quite nicely for navigating the sand and the city, as did my Nautica sunglasses. If you’ve got to pack relatively light, versatile accessories and footwear that work for multiple situations can undoubtedly help ease the burden of lugging around a heavy weekender bag.

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The durable Calypso Watch from MVMT Watches teamed nicely with my SeaVees Legend Sneakers.

I also switched up my outfit for an evening out and about in Fort Myers (including a requisite viewing of the new “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them,” an excellent Harry Potter film). That meant reaching for a tailored short-sleeve gingham shirt from Banana Republic, along with a pair of tailored Canvas by Lands’ End shorts. I also looked forward to breaking out my crisp white SeaVees Legend Sneakers, a go-anywhere set of kicks that works for both casual and business casual situations. My durable, stylish Calypso Watch from MVMT Watches was once again up to the task — I’ll be getting a ton of use out of that timepiece in the weeks and months to come.  And as to the movie? If you’re a Harry Potter fan, you should absolutely check out the incredibly awesome expansion of the HP universe… but back to menswear, ehh?

Just the right gear to hit the road back to NYC. Crosstown Bomber by Public Rec. Voyager Waxed Weekender by Owen & Fred. Waterbury Chrono by Timex x Red Wing Heritage. Strayhorn Mid Sneakers by CLAE x JackThreads. Utility Bifold by Tanner Goods. Vintage ballcap by Goorin Brothers.

Just the right gear to hit the road back to NYC. Crosstown Bomber by Public Rec. Voyager Waxed Weekender by Owen & Fred. Waterbury Chrono by Timex x Red Wing Heritage. Strayhorn Mid Sneakers by CLAE x JackThreads. Utility Bifold by Tanner Goods. Vintage ballcap by Goorin Brothers.

It seems that every time I head to Florida, it gets tougher to leave — especially after a great holiday with family and some beautiful warm weather. But with that being said, it was time to pack up to head back to NYC — to deal with the impending cold weather, I again grabbed my Public Rec Crosstown Bomber and the versatile, travel-friendly CLAE x JackThreads Strayhorn Mid Sneakers. I packed up my gear in my dependable Owen & Fred Voyager Waxed Weekender, which has more than capably stood up to the demands of both summer and fall travel across the past few months. Of course, my travel watch pick was an easy one — my Timex x Red Wing Heritage Waterbury Chrono  hasn’t yet let me down! And when it comes time to add to your everyday carry, the Tanner Goods Utility Bifold is a wallet I’d certainly recommend.

Buck Mason - Timeless Design. Made in America.

So, with that gear in my bag, I hopped a crowded flight back to NYC — and already, we’re back in action and looking ahead to the holiday season. I had an amazing, fun, relaxing and reflective time in Florida — being able to dress in style was just icing on the cake. But you really can’t put a price on time spent with family — can you? What’s more, I’m already looking forward to being back to Florida for Christmas next month. I hope you enjoyed your Thanksgiving in style, and I hope you’re ready for a busy holiday season at The Style Guide — tomorrow, you can look for a seasonally appropriate #OOTD entry, and Wednesday, we’ll tell you exactly how to dress for your next holiday party. Beyond that, you can expect the best menswear on tap with our Style Pick of the Week series, and more holiday men’s style ideas galore.

Thanks so much for reading — stay stylish!

-Beau

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Public Rec Crosstown Bomber

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.

Public Rec Crosstown Bomber

Potentially a new fall style favorite? That’s your call.

Live from Brooklyn, it’s yet another edition of the Style Pick of the Week series here at The Style Guide.  So far this fall season, we’ve covered off on a lot of essential fall pieces, from a durable waxed trucker jacket to a stylish crewneck sweater. While pieces like the aforementioned are fantastic a lot of the time, some situations call for something a bit comfortable but just as functional. From fall travel to a weekend coffee run, you’re going to want ease of movement, a slim fit and the type of look that’s put-together but not overly dressy. Enter the fantastic Public Rec Crosstown Bomber. Available via the Public Rec Web site or through Huckberry , the Crosstown Bomber is the casual fall jacket you didn’t know you needed. Released earlier this fall, it joins the Public Rec arsenal of essential, well-built and comfortable basics that are sure to become everyday staples. From the brand’s tailored-yet-laidback All Day Every Day Pant to the Go-To Tee — tested out by yours truly on a summer trip to Las Vegas — there’s no question that the Crosstown Bomber fills a tough-to-find niche of well-made basics that aren’t … too basic. Especially when it comes to filling out your Fall Style Wish List, those are the type of items you should search for — and then buy.

It’s easy to get the type of easily wearable style you need, too. Crucially, the Crosstown Bomber is available in reliably versatile shades of Black and Heather Charcoal. However, your author is partial to the pleasing shade of Heather Navy. Why’s that? Well, that particular shade of blue will go with absolutely everything — including black denim and grey denim. There’s plenty of upside to the Heather Navy version of this jacket — the blend of nylon and spandex is ridiculously comfortable and breathable, for one. And the sleek yet subtle silhouette of the Crosstown Bomber is another positive. With a zipper chest pocket featuring room for your phone and headphones to slide right in, it’s the ideal mix of stylish and functional. It could even become a new seasonal staple — layer it over a rugged henley with your favorite pair of faded denim on the weekends, and throw in some retro-inspired high-top sneakers while you’re at it.  Then, take that same jacket on through to the work week with a slim white Oxford, polished-yet-casual garment-dyed chinos and worn-in leather chukka boots. Oh, and off-the-wall style suggestion? Layer the Crosstown Bomber over a refined turtleneck for a bit of sleek, alpine-inspired style.  With a jacket this comfortable and easy to wear, it’s a safe bet refined turtleneck that you’ll want to wear it as much as you can, in any and every way possible.

Get the Crosstown Bomber now via Huckberry or Public Rec Apparel.

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: Black Friday 2016 Shopping Edition

Ahh, so it’s here again — Black Friday. If you still haven’t recovered from a healthy dose of turkey and football, we’re here to help you at The Style Guide. It’s a bountiful time for shopping — namely, right here from your laptop. And as great as the weekend is, it’s also important to take some time to kick back, enjoy the holiday with loved ones. But make no mistake, there are deals to be had wherever you look. With plenty of retailers opening their doors and starting online sales well in advance of Black Friday, some of the below deals have been going on for a while. But fear not, you’ve got plenty of time to catch up on all of your #menswear shopping needs. Yes, make no mistake, there are some excellent sales out there — with a slew of promotions from Huckberry, Shinola, JackThreads and plenty more favorites, it’s the ideal time to knock a few items off your style wish list. Without further ado — bring on the Black Friday deals!

Huckberry: The lauded online retailer is offering tons of deals through Sunday, namely featuring the following brands:

Sword & Plough: The men’s and women’s accessories company — as featured in this stylish fall travel ensemble — is running a Thanksgiving week sale giving you 20 percent off all the way through Tuesday! They support veterans every step of the production process, so the brand is certainly worth a look.

Mott & Bow: Everyone’s favorite denim brand has a nice Black Friday deal going on today. Use the code ‘BLACKFRIDAY’ to get 10 percent off orders of $150 or more, 20 percent off $250 or more, or 30 percent off $350 or more of Mott & Bow gear.

Johnston & Murphy: The heritage footwear maker is offering select shoes and boots for up to 30 percent off.

JackThreads: Another Style Guide favorite has been running a Price Drop & Lock Guarantee  for the past few weeks, meaning low prices. well, drop and stay there; oh, and they’re giving everyone 25-30 percent off site-wide for Black Friday! And on Cyber Monday, they’re offering 30 percent off site-wide, all day.

FOURLAPS: The neat athletic brand upstart is providing some nice deals on stylish workout gear — you can snag the Dash Tank, Bolt Short and Smash Tee $30 through Monday, November 28th. And once Cyber Monday hits,  you can shop the Silver Charge Tee for $20

CHASE54: The performance and style-focused golf brand is serving up a nice deal through Cyber Monday —take 30 percent off any two-piece bundle and 40 percent off any three-piece bundle.

Batch Men’s: Batch is serving up a rare sale deal — makers of rugged-refined staples like the Tactician Utility Shirt, they’re offering 40 percent off a wide selection of shirts; get the deal using the code ‘THANKS’!

johnnie-O: The preppy, sport-inspired clothiers are offering a nice Black Friday deal — use the code ‘Tweener’ to buy one button-down, get another button-down free.

 

GREATS: In addition to launching two new sneakers (the third iteration of its Beast Mode collab with retired NFL star Marshawn Lynch, plus a special “Black Friday” edition of its low-cut Royale sneaker), the Style Guide favorite and is giving y’all 20 percent off and free shipping sitewide for Black Friday. That goes along with a series of tiered deals on Cyber Monday: namely, you’re looking at 20 percent off and free shipping sitewide from 12 a.m. to 12 p.m., then 25 percent off and free shipping from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m., capped off by 25 percent off and free shipping on all shoes under $100 from 6 p.m. to midnight on Saturday. Hop to it!

Old Navy: The noted casual retailer — who seems to churn out better and better men’s apparel by the season — is offering 50 percent off through Black Friday. That’s a heck of a deal, y’all.

Shinola: The brand is launching its Special Edition All Black Collection, an assortment of signature all-black Shinola products, debuting today.  It includes the brand-new Shinola Runwell Wall Clock and Shinola Power Supply Cords made in partnership with General Electric, plus an all-black Shinola Runwell Turntable, a 47mm Runwell watch with a PVD black sandblasted case and black dial, a one-of-a-kind black tandem bicycle and the Shinola + Benchmade Titanium 765 Pocket Knife. That’s a heck of a lot of gear! Read more about Shinola on Effortless Gent.

Sunday Somewhere: The eclectic sunglasses brand with an international following is giving you stylish guys up to 50% off storewide through Monday, excluding regular eyeglasses & accessories. No discount code needed!

Links of London: Need a special gift for that special someone? Refined British jewelry makers Links of London are offering 25 percent off for Black Friday, both in stores and online, until the 27th, with that same deal running online only through Cyber Monday. And if you spend $495, you’ll receive the brand’s Limited Edition Timeless Diamond Bracelet, a promo that runs in-store from the 28th, and online from the 29th, until December 11th.

Baxter of California:  These fine purveyors of high-quality men’s grooming products are offering 25 percent off the entire site now through November 28th.

Dr. Scholl’s Shoes: Until the 27th, you can get  20 percent off sitewide, plus free shipping, with the promo code DRS20FS. Then, on Cyber Monday, you can take 25 percent off sitewide, with free shipping also included, using the code DRSCYBER.

Reef: The surfwear and basics brand is serving up free 2-Day Shipping on all orders until the 28th using the code REE2DAY.

Richer Poorer: The standout basics brand is offering 40 percent off sitewide for Black Friday.

Steven Alan Optical: Until November 29th (that’s next Tuesday), you can receive 25 percent off all Steven Alan Optical eyeglasses and sunglasses with code BFWKNDSALE16.

Well, folks — that’s just a selection of some of the best #menswear deals out there on the market. From places where you can knock out all your shopping at once — like Huckberry — to e-tailers like JackThreads and Shinola who serve up stylish outerwear and accessories, this weekend is one of the best of the year (if not the best). And if you’re a fan of shopping and scoring deals? You’d do well to hop to some shopping. Wishing everyone a happy Thanksgiving weekend — and we’ll be back tomorrow as scheduled with our Style Pick of the Week.

Stay stylish, my friends!

-Beau
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by Beau H.

Style Suggestion: What to Wear to Thanksgiving Dinner

Editor’s note: Surf The Style Guide for more menswear suggestions for every occasion.

Ladies and gentleman, Style Guide fans and first-time readers … drum roll please … presenting the fourth (yes, FOURTH) Thanksgiving day style suggestion on this blog! It’s pretty wild. And yes, I said the same thing last year when reflecting on past entries. After all, that’s what this holiday is all about, right? The chance to sit back, reflect and think on all the things for which we’re thankful. From friends and family to my career in New York City to this blog, I’m thankful every day for the chance to do what I love, and share it with great people. It’s definitely on my mind as I prep to travel to Florida for the holiday — and given the impending warm weather, my travel style looks a bit different than the suggestion below (if you’ll be in a warm climate yourself, give these warm-weather style tips a once-over). Whether your holiday takes you somewhere a bit more casual or somewhere that calls for dressing to the nines, I hope you’ll pick out useful pieces from the below — or the whole outfit, maybe? At any rate, follow along via Instagram and Twitter for more useful style tips. Stay warm, travel safe and enjoy the holiday in style. Thanks, as always, for reading!

The Sweater: JackThreads Bear Sweater — $64

A sweater with a bear on it? Sure thing.

A sweater with a bear on it? Sure thing.

Yes, folks — that’s a sweater with a bear on it. A bit whimsical and fashion-forward? Slightly. A fun way to nod to the holiday season with a bit of color? It’s that one, too. It’s a fun piece that isn’t for everyone — a slim cardigan would also do the trick — but it’s a way to channel throwback vibes that seem to be everywhere in recent years, from retro leather sneakers to well, printed graphic sweaters. You could always grab a stylish crewneck sweater — sans the print — if you’re so inclined.

The Shirt: Taylor Stitch Everyday Chambray Shirt — $118

Taylor Stitch

It just doesn’t get any better than the Everyday Chambray Shirt from Taylor Stitch.

From transitional fall style to a weekend coffee date and nearly everywhere in between, the Taylor Stitch Everyday Chambray Shirt has your back — and then some.  It’s a true four-season shirt made with a 7oz. Japanese chambray that’s durable but not overly heavy. In short, it’s ideal for layering under that nifty sweater — or wearing on its own with the sleeves rolled up if you happen to be in a warmer location. The folks at Taylor Stitch get plenty of things right, and this much-loved slim chambray shirt is perfect for the holiday season — or really, any time of year.

The Pants: Flint & Tinder 365 Khaki Pant — $98

The ideal in-between option for Thanksgiving -- crisp enough to go dressy, casual enough to with a chambray shirt.

The ideal in-between option for Thanksgiving — crisp enough to go dressy, casual enough to with a chambray shirt.

Now, the 365 Khaki Pant from Flint & Tinder has proven to be a hot seller in recent weeks, so you might be better off snagging slim chinos from the likes of Bonobos. Heck, even a pair of Flint & Tinder denim might work in a pinch if you decide to go a bit more casual with your look. But if you do stick with the 365 Khaki Pant, you’re getting a classic five-pocket pant with quality construction and the sort of versatile style that works as well on Thanksgiving as it does during a spring Friday with your favorite pocket tee — that versatility is worth the price tag, and then some.

The Boots: Johnston & Murphy Karnes Captoe Boots — $198

A durable lug sole blended with a handsome tan color and a functional wool collar.

A durable lug sole blended with a handsome tan color and a functional wool collar.

Assuming you live in a state where it might be just a tad bit chilly or snowy, sturdy, stylish leather boots are going to be your best bet for fighting the weather and looking great.  With a comfortable and functional wool collar, sharp detailing across the toe and a rich tan color, the Karnes is the perfect complement to a rugged chambray shirt and slim five-pocket pants. They’re refined, yet still able to stand up ably to any foul weather — and the price ain’t half-bad, either.

The Watch: Armogan Spirit of St. Louis Chronograph — $194.98

Vintage numerals blended with triple chronograph functionality in a handsome package.

Vintage numerals blended with triple chronograph functionality in a handsome package.

When you need accessories that find that tricky middle ground between casual and dressed-up, where to turn? Well, Huckberry  has you covered — at least when it comes to the Armogan Spirit of St. Louis Chronograph. With a vintage-inspired dial inspired by the single-engine plane piloted by Charles Lindbergh, it’s a handsome conversation starter (and it’s not related to politics or your dating life, either). The triple chronograph movement adds functionality to a crisp white dial — and the whole thing will look great every other day of the year, too.

A straightforward casual leather belt with fall-ready texture.

A straightforward casual leather belt with fall-ready texture.

If you’re spending some extra coin on a slim chambray shirt and a stylish casual watch, there are ways to cut back your spending a bit elsewhere. An easygoing casual belt from J. Crew Factory is step one in that regard — you’re getting a braided leather belt with seasonally appropriate texture, one that strikes the right tone with the casual-rugged vibes of this ensemble. Ya dig? Good.
Textured cotton socks that complement the rest of this outfit ever so slightly.

Textured cotton socks that complement the rest of this outfit ever so slightly.

You didn’t think we forgot about socks, did you? The difference is in small style details, and whether you keep your shoes on in your own home or someone else’s, a pair of well-made comfortable socks are a nice thing to have in your top drawer. Seriously, no one wants to have ratty socks as you walk to get that turkey sandwich — right? American Trench makes some of the best pairs in the game, and these pair perfectly with the cream sweater, blue shirt and khaki pants.
The Hat: Carhartt WIP Key Ribbed Beanie, $35 (Available via East Dane)
Simple, stylish and effective -- everything a good beanie should be.

Simple, stylish and effective — everything a good beanie should be.

This particular beanie has come up before from the good folks at Carhartt WIP. The brand makes pieces that merge functionality and a slightly fashion-forward approach, but this simple ribbed navy beanie is as straightforward as it gets. Particularly if you get outside for a game of backyard football, you’ll want a beanie that can keep you warm and work with the rest of your outfit — no athletic logos in sight on this thing.

Beckett Simonon

The above #menswear ensemble goes to show you that great style can go a long way, even when spending the day surrounded by family and friends — possibly in your own home. Starting with classic, essential basics — like a stylish chambray shirt and khaki pants — allows you to have a bit of fun with a printed sweater. And when chilly weather comes calling, rugged-refined leather boots a navy beanie are just the ticket in terms of versatile, functional style. Plus, the Spirit of St. Louis Chronograph can work just as well for your 9-to-5 grind as it can when spending time with family and friends. How will you be enjoying the holiday? Chime in over on The Style Guide Facebook page when you get the chance.

And of course, know that I’m thankful for all of you who read this blog — we’ve got more menswear in store this week, that’s for sure!

-Beau

by Beau H.

#OOTD: Business Casual Fall Style

Editor’s note: You’ve surely seen this hashtag lots of different places, including on Instagram. But how does that carry over to real life? The #OOTD series will take one great item and put together a versatile, stylish outfit around it. Look for past features here.

So, we ran into a bit of a conundrum last week on The Style Guide when we talked about how to dress for a casual fall day. We’re nearly through November, and the weather’s been so up-and-down … how does one dress to meet those demands? And if you’ve got to switch from casual fall style to sharp fall style, just how do you do it? Particularly, how does one dress in business casual fall style? Maybe your office isn’t the type of place where a suit and tie is required (it seems few offices are nowadays) — heck, maybe it’s a place where a collared shirt isn’t needed all that often. But let’s say you want to up your game going into a prime cold-weather dressing season — or perhaps, you just need an excuse to refresh some business casual style staples. Now, we’ve talked about how to dress for a business casual office in the summer, but dressing for the fall is a bit different — for starters, you’ll be needing another layer or two depending on the weather. What other #OOTD tips do we have to share? Well my friends, you’ll just have to read on below. Oh, and if you’re scrambling for something to wear for Thanksgiving later this week? A few of the below pieces will come in just as handy for turkey time as they will for your next office meeting. Keep up with The Style Guide (AKA yours truly) on the daily via Twitter and Instagram, and leave any suggestions for this ensemble in the comments below. Deal? Deal.

Can you go wrong with a navy jacket & khaki five-pocket pants? Hardly.

Can you go wrong with a navy jacket & khaki five-pocket pants? Hardly.

The Jacket: Taylor Stitch Telegraph Jacket in Navy, $219.98 — Make no mistake, this jacket features a bit of a unique fabric blend, especially in chilly weather — textured wool & linen chambray aren’t exactly a regular fall combo. But for a four-season jacket with modern styling potential, it doesn’t get better.

The Topcoat: Old Navy Tweed Topcoat, $124.94 — If you were worried about staying warm on a chilly November or December day, don’t be. This Old Navy tweed topcoat is a heck of a bargain and features a nice fit.

The Shirt: Bonobos Jetsetter Dress Shirt in Solid Light Blue, $128 — With a range of customizable options — from the collar to your choice of pocket, plus a dialed-in Bonobos fit, this is a classic dress shirt — a tad pricey, but very solid. Note that we’re ditching the tie, but I’d say you should accessorize with a crisp textured pocket square.

The Pants: Flint and Tinder 365 Khaki Pant, $98 — OK, so you’ve got a sharp jacket and a stylish dress shirt covered … but your office is too casual to go with a full-on suit. Reach for a tailored pair of crisp five-pocket pants — versatile, slim-fitting and equally at home in spring or fall.

The Shoes: Johnston & Murphy Duvall Wingtips, $99.99 — While you could also go with a pair of classic leather chukka boots here, sharp wingtips are just as appropriate and lend a bit of polish to this ensemble.

The Socks: American Trench Merino and Cashmere Fair Isle Socks, $19.98 — Merino AND cashmere, you say? It’s a heck of a luxurious combo for socks, and these ones from American Trench should feel comfortable while fitting great.

The Watch: Armogan Spirit of St. Louis Chronograph, $194.98 –Watches from Armogan work particularly well for business casual situations, what with their crisp designs and slightly larger (and thus more casual) case sizings. Case in point — the Armogan Spirit of St. Louis Chronograph.

The Gloves: Hestra Edward Sheepskin Wool Lined Gloves, $125 (Available via East Dane) — Hey, we said it’d be cold, right? What better way to fight the chill in style than with a pair of rich brown leather gloves?
Beckett Simonon

So, if you still feel like you’re not ready to dress for fall in business casual style, I’d suggest you snap up one or more of the above picks. Particularly when it comes to a crisp, sharp jacket like the Taylor Stitch Telegraph Jacket,  you’re getting a piece that can work in multiple seasons with just a few extra layers. And that’s just as true with the ever-versatile Flint and Tinder 365 Khaki Pant — casual enough for a laidback office, and at home on a fall or spring weekend.  When you throw in accessories like beautiful merino-and-cashmere Fair Isle socks and a handsome chronograph watch, you’re looking at a complete fall outfit. Got questions? Send me an email or drop us a line in the comments — and let me know how it works for you!

Stay stylish,

-Beau

by Beau H.

Reader Giveaway Opportunity: Dickies X-Series Denim

Editor’s note: Stick around The Style Guide for more seasonal menswear suggestions.  And read on for a special reader giveaway opportunity!

dickies-photo

Contemplating this great Dickies X-Series denim giveaway in Prospect Park. The X-Series 5-Pocket Pant is pictured here. Japanese flannel from the Dickies 1922 line. Waxed Cotton Field Jacket by Johnston & Murphy. Color No. 8 Diplomat Boots by Thursday Boots. Waterbury Chrono by Timex x Red Wing Heritage. Glasses by Frameri.

Maybe it’s because your Style Guide author lives and breathes menswear, but it can be pretty darn fun to discover new and unexpected things about brands you thought you knew. Take Dickies, for example. The classic workwear brand has nearly 100 years of history to its name, and a long lineage of outfitting workers for both everyday and more extreme situations. That includes military uniform production during World War II, and commercial production thereafter. Maybe you wore their overalls or hooded jackets — or still do — on the job. However, there’s more to the brand now than workwear — and that, of course, is why we’re here today. The brand has taken a nuanced, measured approach to lifestyle gear in the past few years, including its heritage-focused 1922 line. That approach extends through to its X-Series denim, a run of both slim and straight-cut jeans and five-pocket pants made with soft-yet-durable ringspun cotton and flexible fabric. The even better part? From the Slim Fit Tapered Leg variety to the Slim Fit Straight Leg option or the Skinny Fit iterations,  you’re looking at denim that’s priced at about $30 — seriously, $30.  Who would’ve thought? It was definitely refreshing to learn about the brand’s revamped approach at an NYC showcase event this past September, and after taking a pair of the Slim Fit Tapered Leg jeans with me on both a fall weekend trip to Providence and an October trip back to Michigan, I can vouch for the quality, comfort and fit, through and through. I also had the good fortune to check out a pair of the Slim Fit Tapered Leg 5-Pocket Pants, done up in a comfortable ringspun twill and pictured at the top of the page. They really are perfect for fall style, particularly when teamed with a soft Japanese Flannel Shirt from the brand’s 1922 line.

I’ve also found that the dark-wash pairs of X-series denim pair well with everything from my trusty Taylor Stitch Long Haul Jacket and a chambray shirt to a slim V-neck sweater and leather chukka boots — and I’m sure you will, too! Why’s that? Well, we’re giving one lucky winner — sorry, just one — the option to win their favorite pair of Dickies X-Series denim! Just follow the instructions via this link, and there you have it! Good luck, and thanks for reading!

To win one pair of Dickies X-Series denim of your choice, follow the instructions in this link.

Editor’s note: This contest ends at 12 a.m., Thursday, November 17th.

by Beau H.

#OOTD: The Best Way to Dress for a Casual Fall Day

Editor’s note: You’ve surely seen this hashtag lots of different places, including on Instagram. But how does that carry over to real life? The #OOTD series will take one great item and put together a versatile, stylish outfit around it. Look for past features here.

Now, we might be rolling through November, but with this up-and-down weather, it’s not quite felt truly, really … like fall. Has it? Well, maybe we’ll call this one an #OOTD for a casual … November (or December?) day. Either way, we’ll continue to push forward here on The Style Guide.  Situational dressing, although at first daunting, can  be one of the best parts of getting into menswear — a weekend coffee date? No problem. Heading out on a fall hike? We’ve got you covered there, too. But what about those in-between times? Maybe you’re dashing to the barber or strolling down the street to grab a beer — nothing too fancy, right? And yet, all you loyal Style Guide readers (I think there are a few?) know that even a casual, brisk fall day is a chance to mix and match your favorite style essentials. Some of the pieces below are investment-worthy, but they’re all built to last — and each is versatile in its own right. This is the type of garb to toss on for a perfect fall (or winter) Sunday, and you can even swap in a tough chambray shirt if you need to dress it up a little bit.  So, read on and stick around for more menswear shopping picks for the season.
Huckberry

Reach for comfortable, premium basics and durable boots on a casual fall day.

Reach for comfortable, premium basics and durable boots on a casual fall day.

The Jacket: Apolis Indigo Wool Chore Coat, $278 — Of the investment-worthy pieces mentioned above, the Apolis wool chore coat belongs squarely on that list. It’s perfect for layering, it’s sharp without being too dressy, and it’ll break in beautifully.

The Sweatshirt: Todd Snyder x Champion Pocket Sweatshirt, $98 — A certified modern-day #menswear classic, the Todd Snyder x Champion Pocket Sweatshirt is a cozy, comfortable and stylish second layer — trust me.

The Base Layer: Mack Weldon Pima Long-Sleeve Crewneck, $38 — The Mack Weldon team knows a thing or two about stylish, comfortable basics, and that’s why this pima crewneck is an ideal, warm base layer.
Beckett Simonon

The Pants: Flint & Tinder 365 Khaki Pant, $98 — The makers of your new favorite henley have done it again with a pair of 5-pocket pants that blend casual comfort and crisp style — every day of the year. As to your belt? Pick up a textured braided leather belt on the cheap from J. Crew Factory.

The Boots: Lanona Shoe Co. Academic Boot, $298 — The Academic Boot is another piece that, much like the Apolis indigo wool chore coat, ain’t cheap. But seeing as it’s a Huckberry  exclusive, made in Maine and built with Horween Natural Chromexcel leather? Ehh, the price is more bearable.

The Socks: Anonymous-ism Tribal Joint Crew Socks, $23 (Available via East Dane) — Anonymous-ism is known globally for its subtly stylish, well-made socks — if J. Crew and East Dane carry them, you know they’ve gotta be good.

The Watch: Form-Function-Form Horween Leather Timex Chronograph, $119.98 — This casual outfit is filled with rugged style essentials, so why not reach for an affordably priced, durable Horween leather watch? Ehh?

The Hat: Carhartt WIP Key Ribbed Beanie, $35 (Available via East Dane)  — Sometimes, you don’t need to get too over-the-top with your fall and winter accessories — this navy cap is understated and high-quality.

Keep in mind that when dressing for a casual fall day, plenty of other pieces will work. Whether you layer up a rugged henley with a cotton chore coat or go with a slim chambray shirt and your favorite pair of dark denim, it’s important to keep versatile style and proper fit in mind — but hey, we all know that (wink, nudge). And in this instance, you can get a ton of mileage out of an indigo wool chore coat and classic khaki pants — that goes for casual weekend wear or versatile office style. Oh, and those Horween leather boots will break in beautifully over time while fitting in perfectly with this outfit’s rugged vibes (Editor’s note: If, however, you seek a more affordable pair of fall boots, this site has you covered in the meantime). Are there pieces on this list you would switch up? How do you dress for a casual fall day? Get style inspiration and join the #menswear discussion over on Twitter.
Buck Mason - Timeless Design. Made in America.

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Flint and Tinder Flannel-Lined Waxed Trucker Jacket

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.

A much-coveted, super-durable jacket that's ready for all sorts of fall conditions.

A much-coveted, super-durable jacket that’s ready for all sorts of fall conditions.

The time is now to stock up on one of the best men’s trucker jackets. After all, there’ll soon come a time where you’ll ask yourself: Can you feel it in the air? Maybe? A little bit? It might just be, dare I say it… the perfect time to break out the Flint and Tinder Flannel-Lined Waxed Trucker Jacket. Now, it’s newly restocked, but it won’t be around for long. It made this site’s Fall Style Wish List, and as we’ve said repeatedly at The Style Guide, fall might just be the perfect time for menswear. To beat the chilly k no further than the latest introduction from the great folks at Flint and Tinder and Huckberry . Part of the excellent Flint and Tinder fall collection, the Flannel-Lined Waxed Trucker Jacket very well might be your new fall )and winter?) go-to when it comes to outerwear. The season certainly did get off to a bit of a late start this year, but that’s not to say you won’t get plenty of use out of this stellar coat for several months to come. It layers up very nicely over a classic chambray shirt and it’s the ideal complement to a classic Flint and Tinder henley (wouldn’t you know it?). Oh, and you could even boldly layer it under a navy topcoat for just a dash of rugged-refined style. Why exactly should you drop nearly $200 on this waxed trucker jacket? Well, that’s easy.

Sturdy hardware and a modern fit also make this jacket a great investment.

Sturdy hardware and a modern fit also make this jacket a great investment.

Just as with all of Flint and Tinder’s stylish knitwear, the Waxed Trucker is made in America using high-quality materials and detailing that’s simply top-notch. That starts with silver hardware and rolls right on through to the modern fit and durable waxed 7oz. Martexin sailcloth. You can even customize the fit to your liking with slide buckles at the waist. Yessir, this thing is sturdy as heck. It’s cut to hit above the waist, just like your favorite spring denim jacket. But, there’s something a bit tougher about this jacket – namely, that tough waxed sailcloth exterior and flannel lining, both of which will more more than ably stand up to biting fall winds and chilly rain — or snow, if you layer it under a topcoat. It’s certainly the kind of jacket you should look to wear as much as possible (particularly given that price tag). Team it with a flannel shirt, wear it over a stylish cardigan and rock it time and again with a merino T-shirt and dark denim the next you dash out to grab coffee. Oh, and you might do well to layer it over Flint & Tinder’s ridiculously durable 10-Year Hoodie, too. It’s going to work in slightly dressier situations, too – truly. You can certainly swap this Flint and Tinder jacket out for a blazer at the office, but it’s a reliable layering piece. Give the Flint and Tinder Flannel-Lined Waxed Trucker Jacket a try sometime, ehh? It should be every bit as good as advertised – and then some.

Get the Flint and Tinder Flannel-Lined Waxed Trucker Jacket as soon as you can at Huckberry.

by Beau H.

Style Suggestion: How to Wear a Chore Coat This Fall

Editor’s note: Peruse the site for more menswear style suggestions.

We talk often at ye olde Style Guide about pulling everything together into one cohesive, stylish outfit filled with the best men’s style essentials. Whether it be heading to the pumpkin patch or stepping out on a weekend coffee date, the chilly climes of fall — or rather, late fall — lend themselves well to layering up with the best menswear gear you’ve got.  And that, my friends, is where the durable, reliable and heritage-inspired chore coat comes into play. Like a lot of menswear floating around out there nowadays, it finds its roots in particularly functional, tough jackets worn decades ago by blue-collar American laborers and workers. It’s a distinctive silhouette that’s retained its workwear edge — think patch front pockets and a longer cut — while getting some very stylish modern upgrades in the process. As a matter of fact, it just might be one of the more reliable pieces of fall outerwear you can snag — alongside the waxed trucker jacket, of course. So, that’s where we find ourselves as we tick through another style suggestion. You’ll find pieces both old and new, familiar and unfamiliar in what just might be the best — yes, the very best — way to wear a chore coat this fall. And for another daily dose of menswear, head to Twitter and Instagram, folks.

The Chore Coat: Apolis Indigo Wool Chore Coat — $278

A beautifully made, durable and stylish wool chore coat.

A beautifully made, durable and stylish wool chore coat.

Now, traditional chore coats were made of fabrics like denim, but the Apolis wool chore coat — a legendary piece among lovers of rugged menswear — is just as suitable of a pick.  You could always go with the brand’s selvage denim chore coat, but the wool option will likely be a bit heartier for chillier temps. The fabric is exclusive to Apolis and the wool fabric is woven exclusively for Apolis in Italy; in short, it doesn’t get much better. With fallen buffalo horn buttons and antique nickel-reinforced rivets, this Apolis chore coat isn’t one to mess with.

The Shirt: Abercrombie & Fitch Wool Shirt — $78

A smartly done piece from Abercrombie & Fitch -- yes, that Abercrombie & Fitch.

A smartly done piece from Abercrombie & Fitch — yes, that Abercrombie & Fitch.

The recent Abercrombie & Fitch revamp has really caught the attention of this writer — and it would appear that menswear designer Aaron Levine, formerly of Club Monaco, is a big reason why this American heritage brand is back in business. Pieces like the Wool Shirt exemplify what the brand was once about, and what the brand hopes to do in the future. It’s a simply executed, smart-looking and seasonally appropriate piece that should offset the indigo chore coat nicely, what with the textured wool fabric and a slim fit ideal for sliding underneath a jacket.
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The Pants: Flint & Tinder 365 Khaki Pant — $98

A five-pocket silhouette meets a performance-ready fabric blend and American-made construction.

A five-pocket silhouette meets a performance-ready fabric blend and American-made construction.

Folks, you just might have met your new favorite pair of khaki pants. Flint & Tinder nails that middle ground between premium pieces and hard-to-obtain pricing quite nicely, and while pieces like its marled henleys are worth checking out, the 365 Khaki Pant should give you all the more reason to look into ’em. It’s a five-pocket pant in a versatile shade of dark khaki, made with 97 percent and an ever-crucial 3 percent Lyrca for stretch. The silhouette means you can team them with the Apolis indigo chore coat on the weekends, or a navy blazer during the week. Not bad for under $100.

The Boots: Eastland 1955 Edition Franconia Boots — $157.50 (Available via East Dane)

Contrast stitching, a moc toe for durability and a fall-ready silhouette.

Contrast stitching, a moc toe for durability and a fall-ready silhouette.

When you’ve got a rugged chore coat and tough five-pocket pants, which way to go with your boot game? Easy. Reach for a boot with moc toe construction, stylish and rugged contrast stitching and a sturdy Vibram lug sole. Eye-catching rawhide laces only add to the rugged vibe of this pair of boots — in addition to this #menswear ensemble, they’re going to be a perfect fit for durable selvedge denim throughout fall and winter. As to the socks? A subtly stylish pair from Style Guide favorites American Trench might set you up just fine.

The Watch: Form-Function-Form Horween Leather Timex Chronograph — $119.98

Does it get any better -- or more affordable -- than a Timex Weekender on a Horween leather strap? Not really.

Does it get any better — or more affordable — than a Timex Weekender on a Horween leather strap? Not really.

I first stumbled onto Form-Function-Form via my buddy Joe’s fantastic menswear site, Dappered. The brand has given new meaning to finely made watch straps, and the fact that they’re sold by the great Huckberry team is as good an indication of that approach as any. The adjustable length button-stud band is made from beautiful Horween leather for a suitably rugged contrast to the rich indigo chore coat and dark khaki pants. And the watch? Well, it’s a reliable, durable Timex Weekender with chronograph functionality. Snag this watch before it’s too late, yeah?

The Belt: Filson Bridle Leather Belt — $75 (Available via East Dane)

filson-bridle-leather-belt

If we’re sticking with rugged menswear throughout this outfit, why not grab a tough-as-nails belt that can keep up? Filson makes nothing but the highest-quality goods that money can buy, and that extends through from its coveted bags all the way down to durable — yet smaller pieces — like bridle leather belts. There’s no question that this belt fits right in with the tough vibes of this ensemble. The fact that you’ll have it forever is just another bonus.

The Hat: Club Monaco Kensington Cashmere Hat — $99 (Available via East Dane)

A rather luxurious upgrade to the standard winter hat.

A rather luxurious upgrade to the standard winter hat.

When chilly fall weather hits, you could reach for a plain, average hat — or you could reach for a cashmere Club Monaco hat. Now, it’s certainly pricey, and perhaps you’ve got a winter hat that you’ve worn through the years, but this hat is subtle, refined and very comfortable. They’re certainly aren’t a lot of cashmere stocking caps on the market, so it should be easy to hang onto this one — right?

Just as there’s something to be said for picking up affordable essentials — from style upgrades to everyday purchases — there’s something to be said for investing in the best … when you can, that is. An indigo wool chore coat from the likes of Apolis is about as durable and fall-ready as it gets, with the potential to break in over time and tell some nice stories. And when teamed with a slim wool shirt from a heritage sportswear brand like Abercrombie & Fitch, you’re looking at a great one-two punch. Plus, made-in-America pants and reliable moc toe boots fit right in with the rugged vibes of fall, as does a beautiful Horween leather watch. On the accessories front, a cashmere hat is a luxurious upgrade to standard winter accessories. So, there you go. How would you wear a chore coat this fall? Any thoughts on the Apolis indigo wool chore coat? Chime in on Facebook, and we’ll see you for our weekly Friday Read.

-Beau
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