Tag / jack mason

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Jack Mason Field Chronograph Watch

A striking timepeice with tough construction and standout looks.

Do you ever see a timepiece that you feel like you need on your wrist … immediately? Maybe one that seems like the perfect casual watch, a true fall style essential even? My friends, meet the Jack Mason Field Chronograph Watch, a bona fide timepiece that exemplifies rugged-yet-refined style. If you read The Style Guide regularly, you might recognize Jack Mason — let’s welcome them back into the fold today. I’m quite the fan of watches of all types — namely, of the more laidback variety — and if you follow me on Instagram, you might be acquainted with my collection. When it comes to taking stock of your style, it’s wise to leave no stone unturned, and such is the case when it comes to a stylish casual watch. Which leads us to *pulls aside curtain* …. the Field Chronograph Watch on display today.  The Texas-based brand draws on inspirations ranging from military timepieces to watches with the spirit (and design) of aviation built right in, and the resulting stylish watches are a sight to behold. Again, I give you the Field Chronograph. First of all, there’s the standout design and rich combination of cool olive and black colorways. The pairing is ideal for wearing with your favorite fall jacket or a tough denim trucker jacket (plus some classic grey denim). And the simple look of the Field Chronograph Watch also makes it more than wearable with cleaned-up business casual essentials for cold weather (think a cotton navy blazer, a rugged grey crewneck sweater and a white Oxford). Yet, the Jack Mason Field Chronograph Watch also has the superb construction & durability you need in a dependable everyday watch.

Jack Mason

Subtle branding + excellent quality makes for one heck of a nice watch.

The Field Chronograph Watch features an agreeable 42mm case diameter — large enough to stand up to outdoor excursions, refined enough so as not to seem too large on most wrists. Now, as I’ve said in the past, I’m not a watch snob by any means … so the Japanese quartz movement does just fine in my book. Topped off with mineral crystal, this watch is a durable, affordable timepiece for fall and winter weather — the rugged NATO strap in a crisp olive color helps see to that.  It’ll more than stand up to tough weather and long days. And the Jack Mason Field Chronograph Watch really does look to be built for the field. That is to say, you might want to leave it at home when going hunting or fishing, but you can definitely give it a try on a short hike through your local park. It might look best when paired up with a vintage-inspired cardigan and a classic chambray shirt, though. Where can that #menswear ensemble take you? Just about anywhere you please this fall, from a dressed-up evening on the town to a more casual day at the office when teamed with stylish leather sneakers. Yessir, the Jack Mason Field Chronograph Watch is the timepiece you didn’t know you needed — until now.  Add it to any list of the best casual watches for men … including your own. And that’s the last word!

Is the Field Chronograph Watch the next timepiece to make its way into your collection? Let me know on Twitter.

Thanks for reading, as always!

-Beau

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by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Jack Mason Aviator Watch

 

Jack Mason

A no-nonsense timepiece designed with aviation elements and versatile casual style.

Who doesn’t love adding to an ever-growing watch collection? For your Style Guide author, a watch is an essential accessory available in seemingly endless options — but when you find the right watch, you know it unequivocally. If you follow me on Instagram, you know that I certainly can’t pass up a stylish watch. And if you need a new one of your own … well, that’s the journey we’re embarking on today. In fact, your search for a stylish new watch might start and end with the Jack Mason Aviator Watch — it’s potentially the perfect casual watch, a blend of handsome and crisp style at an affordable price point. It’ll work right now — the depths of summer — and the rest of the year. Rest assured, the watch we’re discussing today belongs on any list of the best men’s gear to buy now — and it’s certainly not too good to be true.  Jack Mason draws on classic, masculine influences to design its crisply appointed timepieces — good news if that’s what you’re into stylistically. Blending elements and detailing drawn from pilot and field watches, the results are definitely very, very covetable — take the Jack Mason Nautical Three-Hand Watch, a personal favorite of this author. And that same rugged-yet-wearable ethos shines through with the affordably priced, accessible Jack Mason Aviator Watch. It’s striking in nearly every way, from the surprisingly wearable black dial-brown leather strap combo to the clean design and the durable (yet not overwhelming) 42mm case diameter. In short, it’s the watch to buy now — and wear now.

Jack Mason

A durable-yet-wearable 42mm case diameter and handsome brown leather strap finish off the Jack Mason Aviator Watch quite nicely.

Among many other positives, the Aviator Watch is available to you for the low price of $150 when you sign up for Bespoke Post— gotta love those deals, ehh? And the value in terms of style points? It’ll far surpass the price tag. Like any versatile, stylish watch, it can team up with casual style combos — think a grey pocket tee, slim blue denim and leather high-top sneakers — or dressier ensembles (say, a cotton suit at your next casual summer wedding). It’ll seriously look great all year, a testament to its simple-yet-effective design rooted in field-ready functionality. If that sounds like it’s in your wheelhouse, then step right on up and pick up the Jack Mason Aviator Watch. Wary of buying from a relatively upstart brand? Know that the folks at Jack Mason have put in the work to back up their products (and it helps that they design watches in the hard-to-handle Texas heat). In testing out Jack Mason watches, I can vouch for their quality and durability — to go along with versatile and easily wearable style, that is. If the Aviator Watch isn’t quite your speed, Jack Mason also makes a host of other crisp, eye-catching watches, all geared toward go-anywhere looks. From racing-inspired chronographs to simple field watches, there’s a watch for every taste. And yet… there’s something about the no-frills style potential of the Aviator Watch. Do you agree? And will you be buying any timepieces from Jack Mason this summer? Let me know in the comments. For now — let’s take on the weekend in style!

Thanks for reading,

-Beau

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: Shinola, Spring Travel and The National

Hey there, folks — it’s time to wrap up the week once more and jump right into The Friday Read on this fine Brooklyn day. How was your week? Tough to believe that we’ve rolled past Mother’s Day and we’ve now got Father’s Day on our radar in terms of shopping (that is, in addition to the other #menswear shopping recommendations we’ve made on this site). Time’s positively been flying by, especially considering that I traveled to Indiana in style last weekend to catch up with old college friends, try out some craft brews at Goshen Brewing Company and take in the quiet tranquility of the Midwest — if you follow me on Instagram though, you know all about that trip. And back in NYC, we’ve been busy on the blogging and writing front — you’ll see a few handy spring travel tips and more men’s style news to know below.

Of course, I’m particularly excited about what’s to come in the days ahead. Specifically, I’m looking forward to exploring the lovely borough of Queens today in advance of what should be an incredible show from acclaimed British electro-pop band The xx. The band really defies any categorization though, and the group’s new third album — “I See You”— features some of the strongest musical work of 2017, hands down. Yes indeed, it should be a magical evening at Forest Hills Stadium in Queens. What are your weekend plans? Standby for tomorrow’s new Style Pick of the Week, as it were — and feel free to join the conversation on Twitter if you’ve got a style query I can answer. Hopefully, I can help — let’s start with these items below, shall we?
Florsheim

  • Who doesn’t love a simple-yet-stylish spring and summer T-shirt? Better yet, how about one that supports a great cause? That’s exactly what Waves for Water is doing with its Artists for Water series, which applies the brand’s trademark focus to upgrading something we all know and love — The T-shirt. That means these T-shirts feature one-of-a-kind artwork from designers and artists alike, including Shawn Stussy (yes, the Shawn Stussy) and Nautas Kapas, the famed skateboarder, designer and now creative director at Birdwell Beach Britches. What does this mean for you, stylish reader? It means that now through July 3rd, you can keep your eyes peeled on the site for new weekly T-shirt launches.
  • OK, so how about upgrading your leather watch? If you happen to be in NYC, or visiting, you should absolutely check out the new Shinola Brooklyn store. They absolutely make some of the best men’s leather watches out there, and it was a treat to catch up with Shinola Creative Director Daniel Caudill for The Manual in advance of the opening, and I’d daresay you’ll be more than pleased with the brand’s handsome accessories and home goods.Greats
  • The summer is no time to let your outerwear game slip, especially on breezy nights — I’d suggest you pick up the Goldwin Packable Windbreaker, one of my recent entries for GearMoose, and let me know where you’re headed.
  • Now, let’s talk music. If you missed it last Saturday, you can — and should — watch the lovely ladies of California rock trio HAIM play two new songs on Saturday Night Live! Who else is excited for the group’s new album this July?  I sure am.


Last, but certainly not least ….

  • While we’re taking new music, it was with joy and surprise that I first listened to the new single by The National last week. If you haven’t heard the latest from the indie rock heroes, listen to “The System Only Dreams in Total Darkness” as soon as you can. Trust me.

OK, loyal Style Guide readers. That’s it — that’s all we’ve got! Unless, of course, you haven’t listened to that new single by The National. You should do that, ASAP.

Now, we’re ready for the weekend — stay stylish!

-Beau

by Beau H.

#OOTD: The New Chambray Shirt to Wear This Season

Join us today for another entry in the #OOTD series. If you want to know all about the new chambray shirt to wear this season … it’s your lucky day. From upgrading your pocket tee to wearing a patterned shirt the right way, we’ve certainly covered a lot of ground in all matters spring style — and we’re continuing to do so today, with both sustainability and great looks in mind. Indeed, in the same way that a chambray shirt can work handsomely with a rugged shawl-collar cardigan in winter or a waxed trucker jacket in the fall,  so too can it work in the spring — namely, with a little less fabric in the sleeves. That’s where the United By Blue Wenlock Chambray Shirt comes into play. You might recognize it from a recent Style Pick of the Week entry, and it’s taking center stage now (it’s also been a hot seller via Huckberry, so I’d look to slim short-sleeve chambray shirting from Old Navy to replicate this look). That being said, let’s get to the most important part — your purchase of this shirt helps remove a pound of trash from oceans and waterways, part of the brand’s commitment to the environment. And why should you buy it? Plenty o’ reasons. It features a neat mini-plus sign pattern — just eye-catching enough — and a reliably tailored fit (no baggy shirts — who’s with me?). Both of those features make it perfect for everything from exploring Brooklyn to heading out on a weekend coffee date — and it also can team up with slim tan chinos and a pair of stylish men’s dress shoes for  summer half-day at the office (and happy hour afterward). Alright, so that’s the shirt to wear this season — but what to wear it with? Stick around for the below #OOTD. Stay stylish!

Pairing a cool chambray shirt with slim five-pocket pants, a lightweight bomber and simple sneakers — not bad at all.

The Shirt: United By Blue Wenlock Chambray Shirt, $68 — See, we told you this shirt would look great — right? It’s the ideal way to start a spring style ensemble — slim, unique and ready for just about anything.

The Jacket: Public Rec Apparel Crosstown Bomber, $129 — For those spring and summer evenings when it gets a bit breezy, the Public Rec Apparel Crosstown Bomber is the perfect weight and the perfect silhouette.

The Pants: Flint and Tinder 365 Pant in Earth, $98 — Are you sick of hearing about Flint and Tinder yet? Not quite? Good. The Flint and Tinder 365 Pant in Earth should prove tough, versatile and perfect for situations casual and slightly dressier — particularly alongside the United By Blue Wenlock Chambray Shirt.

The Sneakers: Dr. Scholl’s Rythms Sneaker in Grey Nubuck, $89.99 — For a bit of monochromatic style up against the Public Rec Apparel Crosstown Bomber, reach for affordable, crisp and classic grey sneakers.

The Socks: Darn Tough No Show Ultra-Light Cushion Socks, $29.98 — Because every pair of stylish spring sneakers deserves great socks, get this two-pack of tough (literally) no-show socks.

The Watch: Jack Mason Aviator 3-Hand Watch, $205 —  Tough, rugged and yet refined at the same time, the Jack Mason Aviator 3-Hand Watch is your answer to that age-old question: “What watch do I wear with this outfit?”
Greats
The Sunglasses: Norton Point Charlie 014 Sunglasses, $145 — Blending retro style with a decent price and great quality, the Norton Point Charlie 014 Sunglasses are a great pick-up in advance of summer — truly.

The Everyday Necessity: Nisolo Lori Leather Tote, $134.98 — More than $130 for a leather tote? Well, when it’s an extraordinarily high-quality bag that looks smart alongside your everyday carry, you should give it a shot.
Sutro Shoes Inc.

OK — all ready to wear your new favorite chambray shirt for spring and summer? Of course you are. The building blocks of this outfit are essentials every guy should have in his closet — the United By Blue Wenlock Chambray Shirt is just the beginning. It should look right at home alongside a versatile pair of pants like the Flint and Tinder 365 Pant in Earth. And simple grey sneakers are a nice complement to a casual spring jacket — the Public Rec Apparel Crosstown Bomber is the jacket you need now. Make no mistake, on-point accessories are also clutch — the Norton Point Charlie 014 Sunglasses could be your new go-to pair of shades, while the Nisolo Lori Leather Tote is a reliable and simple way to carry around your goods. All set for this season’s adventures? I know I am!

As always — stay stylish,

-Beau

by Beau H.

#OOTD: How to Wear Light Wash Jeans This Spring

So, you’ve picked up your new favorite pair of light wash denim — or at least, you’ve thought about it. Now, how do you wear those jeans? Well, there are a few moves that’ll help you take on spring in style — unlike pairing dark selvedge denim with sturdy leather boots and a thick shawl cardigan for winter, the focus today is on keeping things light, breezy and fun. That means we’re grabbing an essential spring polo and a classic cotton bomber jacket, all the while focused on dialing in the fit of your light wash denim. In the warm, breezy days of spring and summer, light wash denim just fits in with the weather and the atmosphere. Trust me on this: You’re going to want to wear light wash jeans as much as you can this summer — particularly when those jeans are made in a unique wash and feature a slim fit. That means that from spring road trips to summer music festivals, slim light wash jeans should be a go-to move — and it doesn’t get better than the Abercrombie light wash denim seen here. You know Abercrombie and Fitch for the brand’s stylish, durable winter gear, and that same attitude carries over to its spring line. If you have other questions on how to wear your light wash denim, or if you just want to get in touch, hit me up on Twitter or join me over on the ‘Gram for style inspiration on the daily.

Sutro Footwear

Mixing the sporty and the classic for essential spring style.

The Denim: Abercrombie and Fitch Super Skinny Jeans, $39 — If it’s slim, of-the-moment style that you seek, look no further than this vibrant pair of washed denim, made with a hint of stretch for comfort. For options that feature a more forgiving cut, look toward Straight or Slim options via Mott and Bow.

The Jacket: La Paz Ortigao Bomber in Almond, $275 — We first brought this jacket to your attention in our post on how to dress for a spring road trip — and well, it’s back again thanks to its unique color and lightweight construction.
Greats

The Polo: Criquet Shirts Slim-Fit Player’s Shirt in Midnight Cowboy, $79 — For easily wearable style that looks sharp underneath a bomber jacket or on its own, it’s tough to top a classic navy polo like the Criquet Slim-Fit Player’s Shirt  — especially one made with organic cotton jersey fabric.

The Sneakers: House of Future Original Sneaker in White, $76.98 — Who doesn’t love a pair of classic leather sneakers? Especially the House of Future Original Sneaker — these are sharp and feature a crisp, slim profile for an agreeable price.

The Socks: Darn Tough No Show Ultra-Light Cushion Socks, $29.98 — No-show socks can be a surprisingly tricky item for which to shop — you want comfort and quality, and you get that with the Darn Tough No Show Ultra-Light Cushion Socks.

The Belt: La Matera Bariloche Belt, $145 — If you want to step up your #menswear accessories game in a big way, reach for a casual belt — say, the La Matera Bariloche Belt — that blends vintage fabric, a neat pattern and cool color.

The Watch: Jack Mason Aviator Chronograph, $275 — For handsome, smart and casual style that still looks extremely sharp and put-together, the Jack Mason Aviator Chronograph is the watch you need now.

The Sunglasses: Norton Point Charlie 014 Sunglasses, $145 — For seriously cool style, reach for retro-inspired sunglasses that add some sporty appeal to the La Paz Ortigao Bomber.

Florsheim

Feeling comfortable with how to wear light wash denim now? At least a little bit more comfortable? If you haven’t quite come around to the idea of light wash denim yet, the key here involves taking pieces that you’d already wear in warm weather — like the Criquet Slim-Fit Player’s Shirt — and mashing them up with sporty-yet-casual pieces (such as the La Paz Ortigao Bomber in Almond. Add in supremely classic and clean white leather sneakers like the House of Future Original Sneaker , and then accent that casual combo with the beautiful and just plain badass Jack Mason Aviator Chronograph. Oh, and don’t leave your shades at home — there’s no doubt that you won’t forget the Norton Point Charlie 014 Sunglasses, what with a retro-inspired design and cool looks. In short, all of these pieces work on their own — and they particularly work well together for all manner of spring style pursuits, from a ballgame to a weekend coffee date to a spring road trip. Especially that light wash denim. Ya feel me on that? Good.

Let’s go to it!

-Beau

 

by Beau H.

#OOTD: The Best Way To Upgrade Your Casual Shirt This Spring

Here at The Style Guide, I always say it pays to focus on the little style upgrades we should all be making daily.  Whether that’s starting with the basics — like investing in a pair of classic dark denim — or going a step further (like dialing in the exact fit of your favorite chambray shirt), there are certainly quite a few #menswear details to consider on the daily. And perhaps one of the more overlooked pieces of a guy’s wardrobe could be casual shirting. It’s fair to say that if you’re dressing in tailored office style during the week, there’s not a lot of room to wear more laidback garb.  So, it’s certainly easy to overlook shirting that can be worn for off-duty occasions. From a spring bar crawl to Sunday brunch, that’s where the below tips are going to come in handy. Luckily for you, there’s one brand in particular that’s merging a reliable fit with classic styling potential and hey, a dash of helpful technology — the Tech Prep Chambray Shirt from GANT is geared to wick away moisture and manage temperature while looking great. Didn’t think a casual shirt could do that, did ya? See how to style it via the below #OOTD, and get more casual style inspiration via my Instagram. Happy spring!

Upgrading your casual shirt with a focus on performance and style.

The Shirt: GANT Tech Prep Chambray Shirt, $125 — As mentioned before, this shirt checks the boxes in terms of performance and style, what with a rich four-season color, a slim fit and moisture-wicking capability.

The Jacket: La Paz Ortigao Bomber in Almond, $275 — Another underrated spring style upgrade — a cotton bomber jacket featuring a modern fit and quality construction. The La Paz Ortigao Bomber is a surefire winner, folks.

The Chinos: Taylor Stitch Democratic Chino in Army, $98 — Because we’re all about showing you how to wear your new favorite chinos this spring, let’s add the Taylor Stitch Democratic Chino to your shopping list, ehh? High-quality fabric, an outstanding army green color and a fit that’s pleasingly modern, yet not restrictive.

Frank & Oak

The Chukka Boots: Astorflex Greenflex in Dark Khaki, $129.98 — Who can resist a pair of stylish chukka boots from our pals at Huckberry? If you don’t know Astorflex, get on it — the Greenflex in Dark Khaki is made sustainably with comfort in mind.

The Belt: J. Crew Factory Washed Leather Belt, $24.50 — Simple, affordable and wearable with gear ranging from a slim pocket tee and olive cargos to stone chinos and a lightweight navy blazer, you can’t go wrong with this belt.

Beckett Simonon

The Watch: Jack Mason Aviator 3-Hand Watch, $185 — Equal parts rugged and dressy, the Aviator 3-Hand Watch is the sort of watch you could wear 7 days a week, with everything from a marled henley to a classic blue Oxford and knit tie.
Sutro Shoes Inc.

The Socks: Richer Poorer Tyrell Socks, $12 — I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again — small style details matter, and neutral-colored socks with a dash of pattern are one way to get it right.

The Everyday Necessity: Nisolo Lori Leather Tote, $134.98 — If you tend to think more of a messenger bag when compiling your everyday carry, consider a humble — yet handsomely appointed — Nisolo tote bag instead. Specifically, the Nisolo Lori Leather Tote. It’s more unique than a messenger and just as well-suited for casual spring style.

If at first glance the above outfit doesn’t blow you away with crazy-loud colors or styling touches, that’s … probably a good thing. After all, sometimes, the best #OOTD looks are ones that are crisp, done simply and tailored nicely. Such is the case with the breathable and stylish GANT Tech Prep Chambray Shirt, a great upgrade to your casual shirting game if ever there was one. Unique outerwear like the La Paz Ortigao Bomber could change your seasonal layering game altogether, particularly given its cool color and great fit. Olive chinos from the likes of Taylor Stitch are as surefire a bet as any, and classic suede chukka boots are yet another ideal spring style move. No matter the season, keep in mind that you can wear a tough Jack Mason watch with nearly any outfit — and rest assured that your gear is going to be safe and sound with the Nisolo Lori Leather Tote.

Got any questions or thoughts as to what you’d like to see covered in the #OOTD series? Shoot me an email and let’s talk menswear!

In the meantime — stay stylish,

-Beau

Greats

by Beau H.

Style Suggestion: How to Dress for A Spring Road Trip

Are you packed up for your next spring road trip? Or perhaps, your first of the season? If you’re still struggling with what to bring in your stylish weekender bag, your hard-working Style Guide team of one can help you with that today. Much like dressing for winter travel, gearing up for a day in transit — be it by plane, train or automobile — requires you to meet a few different style scenarios. You could be migrating from temperate, breezy conditions to sweltering heat, as I did on a spring road trip to Florida, or you could be going from a dressy day at the office to a casual vacation.  Either way, packing and traveling with versatility and crisp-yet-casual style in mind can only help you in the long run. So, the focus is on layering, solid fits, mobile fabrics and just a few spring style classics. Think you can handle all that? Hope so — and if you want to see a certain topic covered in this series, leave me a comment in my virtual suggestion box … on Twitter. OK, gear up and hit the road!

The Weekender Bag: Nisolo Leon Weekender in Chestnut — $397

Nisolo Leon Weekender

A beautiful mix of durable leather and excellent style.

As previously covered in our Style Pick of the Week series, there’s really no way you can go wrong with the handsome, supremely stylish and tough Nisolo Leon Weekender in Chestnut. Done up in rich brown leather and lined with tan cotton canvas, the Leon Weekender is a refined blend of style and functionality, and it’ll look just as great in any Instagram travel shots as it will sitting in your trunk or overhead compartment. Think of the Nisolo Leon Weekender as an investment in great taste, great looks and great adventures.

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The Bomber Jacket: La Paz Ortigao Bomber in Almond — $275

La Paz Ortigao Bomber

A unique shade of … well, almond, done up in a classic cotton bomber jacket.

We all need some stylish spring outerwear in our lives, right? That’s what you’re getting with the versatile, casual and well-made La Paz Ortigao Bomber in Almond. This 100 percent cotton bomber — featuring raglan sleeves to broaden your frame visually — is made in Portugal, hence the higher price tag. And lest you be wary of the Almond color, think of the lighter cream/off-white shade of the La Paz Bomber as being similar to a foray into white denim — a move that when done right, looks great. I have a sneaky feeling you’ll like the rest of the #menswear ensemble we pair it with, too.
The Polo: Flint and Tinder Supima AirKnit Polo — $68
Flint and Tinder

A classic navy polo, made with comfort and care from a solid brand.

The Style Guide editorial team — of one — sure does love Flint and Tinder. From rugged fall and winter outerwear like the Flannel-Lined Waxed Trucker Jacket to seasonal staples like the Flint and Tinder Moleskin Shirt and even the brand’s Garment-Dyed Sweatpants, they make something for every occasion and preference. And now, my fine gentlemen (and ladies!), I offer up the Flint and Tinder Supima AirKnit Polo. Made with a tailored fit and in an essential color like navy, it’s a comfortable, breathable layering piece that does just fine sans jacket, too. 

The Pants: Iron and Resin Drifter Pant in Graphite — $50

Iron and Resin

The comfort of a drawstring waistband with the tailored look of chinos.

The vibe of this outfit so far screams comfortable, casual and put-together — not sloppy. So while you could feasibly reach for tailored sweatpants here, we’re going with another hybrid option — specifically, classic drawstring trousers from the fine folks at Iron and Resin. Featuring organic cotton with 2 percent stretch and a straight fit, these are perfect pants for travel, what with room to move and versatile looks that can take you from the road to dinner without missing a beat.

Sutro Shoes Inc.

The Sneakers: Johnston and Murphy Allister Lace-up — $145

A clean white sneaker from a brand known for its hard-wearing boots.

Who doesn’t love a pair of crisp, classic white sneakers for spring? Your Style Guide author surely does. And while you could certainly swap these white sneakers for something a little more polished — like refined suede Chelsea boots — the simple, clean silhouette of the Allister Lace-up works just as well.  The cushioned footbed should keep your feet comfortable for hours at a time, and there’s hardly a spring style combination more widely accepted than tailored chinos and white sneakers.

The Belt (To Pack): J. Crew Factory Washed Leather Belt — $24.50

No need to get too fancy when it comes to a leather belt to pack for weekend trips.

Packing up your Leon Weekender is going to require some planning. After all, if you’re only going away for a weekend, perhaps you can survive with only a brown leather belt — particularly if you’re wearing drawstring pants on one of those days. But, let’s say you also bring along some slim dark denim. Well, enter this affordable belt for classic style that’s wearable with everything from tough leather boots to the aforementioned white sneakers. It’s as simple as that.
Huckberry

The Watch: Jack Mason Aviator 3-Hand — $205

A great-looking watch for a solid price — spring style on the go, without a doubt.

You didn’t think we forgot about including an essential leather watch, did you? Of course not. Just as with packing up only one belt, perhaps you can get through a weekend with just one watch — and if that’s your challenge, I’d humbly submit the Jack Mason Aviator 3-Hand as your watch of choice, amigo.  The folks at Jack Mason make watches that pull from a variety of influences, from flight to seafaring, and the handsome Aviator 3-Hand combines rugged good looks and crisp, classic style.

The Socks: Richer Poorer Griffin Socks — $8

Richer Poorer

Simple stripes and a nice. comfortable weight for spring.

If you’re going to drop some serious cash on a slim bomber jacket and a durable leather weekender bag, you might as well hang onto your spare change when it comes to buying socks, right? Fear not — Richer Poorer makes high-quality socks in a variety of fabrics despite the low price. Those options include the “Everyday Midweight” option seen here. Even better? They won’t look half-bad in terms of color and design when you take off your spring sneakers, either.

The Underrated Accessories: Hudson Suttler USA Dopp Kit — $49.98 AND Decibullz Custom-Fit Bluetooth Wireless Earphones — $119.99

A durable dopp kit and high-quality headphones — both great pieces to have handy on the road.

If you’ve been hunting for a stylish men’s dopp kit for a while now, end that search ASAP, because the Hudson Suttler USA Dopp Kit is here to save the day. Heavy-duty olive drab canvas sets this kit apart, as do small touches like leather zipper pulls. In short, it’s a much better way to carry your grooming essentials than a plastic bag. And who doesn’t need premium headphones, right? The kicker with Decibullz? These headphones can be molded to the shape of your ear, just like a mouthguard. If you need some music to listen to on your trip, might I recommend Lucius or Local Natives? Onward.

There are a lot of details to consider when packing up for a spring road trip. Starting with a durable, functional weekender bag like the Leon Weekender is as good a jumping-off point as any, however. And for travel that could start out chilly and end up warm, layering essentials like the La Paz Bomber should prove premium, well-made and versatile. The same can be said for a classic spring polo — enter the Flint and Tinder Supima AirKnit Polo. Lest we leave behind any stylish travel accessories, don’t forget to pack a durable casual watch — certainly, the Jack Mason Aviator 3-Hand is the way to go. Clean white sneakers and grey Iron and Resin chinos also make for easygoing, high-low style, which is just what you want when on the road. And certainly, everyday carry pieces like the Hudson Suttler USA Dopp Kit are going to make your life a whole lot easier — and more stylish — when traveling. If you’ve got pieces you’d like to see added, or if you think this suggestion is just fine and dandy, leave a note on The Style Guide Facebook page.

See you on the road — stay stylish!

-Beau

NOV CAMPAIGN: Photo of brown boots with logo (no border)

by Beau H.

#OOTD: How to Wear Your New Favorite Chinos This Spring

Am I the only one, or does it still feel odd to be talking about dressing for spring? Maybe it’s because of the frigid weather that swept through NYC a few weeks ago … and yet, here we with another spring style #OOTD on your favorite #menswear blog. It is your favorite, right? Good answer. At any rate, today’s look is taking a year-round staple — that would be the versatile, stylish slim chino — and bringing it out of the depths of winter and into slightly more temperate spring conditions. The great thing about a go-anywhere pair of chinos is that you can wear them just as easily here in early spring as you can through the summer, fall and winter. It’s a matter of layering up the right way — and subtracting layers as it gets warmer — but today’s outfit should give you the building blocks for transitional spring style. As you’ll see, we’re starting with everyday classics like your go-to Oxford shirt and a tough utility jacket, and we’re finishing the look off with a refined leather watch and … well, I don’t want to give too much away. You can view the full outfit below, and I’d suggest you follow me on Twitter for more random (but useful!) style content each and every day.

Greats

Finisterre

Pairing slim chinos with a military-inspired jacket and other excellent everyday staples.

The Chinos: Finisterre Coverack Chinos, $74.98 — At first glance, these chinos might look a bit different than pairs you’re used to — that’s because they’re coming from a brand that makes gear both nautical-inspired and ready for transitional weather. With a classic-yet-tailored straight leg and peached fabric, the Coverack Chino  is sharp and easygoing.

The Jacket: Bridge and Burn Northfork Woodland Jacket, $198 — So, we’re pairing dark khaki chinos with an olive jacket. That puts this look in the same color family, but don’t be afraid to try it out every now and again — especially if it involves the durable, sharp Woodland Jacket seen here.

The Shirt: Grayers Jaspe Double Cloth Shirt, $98 — Need I say more here? A classic Oxford, especially one like the Grayers Jaspe Double Cloth Shirt, nicely offsets the dark khaki and olive tones of this outfit.

The Boots: Beckett Simonon Laval Suede Chukka Boots in Chestnut,$199 — In terms of underrated footwear brands, Beckett Simonon has gotta be up there. Good news is, you can pre-order these handsome, water-resistant suede chukka boots and wear them whenever it gets wet outside.

The Belt: Abercrombie & Fitch Woven Leather Belt, $44 — From highlights like the Abercrombie & Fitch Chamois Shirt to small — but well-made — accessories, this is a brand getting things right for guys like you and me … so, buy this casual belt!

The Watch: Jack Mason Aviator Chronograph, $275 — If there’s one watch brand you might not know — but need to know — it’s Jack Mason.  The brand is making well-designed, tough-yet-refined watches, and the Aviator Chronograph is among them.

The Everyday Carry: This Is Ground Leatherback Writer 3, $84.98 — Just when you thought you had your everyday carry all sorted out, along comes the crisply designed Leatherback Writer 3, with plenty of space for your daily essentials.

The Umbrella: Blunt Umbrellas Classic Umbrella, $64.98 — Spring rain is certainly in the forecast, and it’ll definitely pay off to have a functional, subtly stylish umbrella with you when it rolls through.

Frank & Oak

If even the above #OOTD didn’t quite get you in the spring spirit, rest assured … we’ll get there. And with easy-to-wear, versatile pants like the Finisterre Coverack Chinos in your rotation, things are only going to get better (and more stylish) in the season ahead. It’s crucial to realize you can wear the Coverack Chinos with ease alongside other four-season essentials, like the Grayers Jaspe Double Cloth Shirt. And when you layer up with a rugged, durable piece of outerwear like the Bridge and Burn utility jacket shown above, your goal of meeting transitional weather in style is, well, accomplished. However, figuring out the main part of your outfit leaves little room to slack off, lest we forget. Grab a tough-yet-stylish watch like the Aviator Chronograph and round out that everyday carry with a handy piece like the Leatherback Writer 3 — all good suggestions, agreed? Sure hope so.

If you’ve got any questions or suggestions on this ensemble, drop me a line on Facebook or chime in via the comments — good luck getting ready for spring!

-Beau

Greats

by Beau H.

#OOTD: The Best Way to Dress on St. Patrick’s Day This Year

OK, folks — let’s belly up to the bar, grab a Guinness… wait a second. No no no,  wait … what is that you’re wearing? C’mon, man. No shamrock suits today. All joking aside, today’s #OOTD should  (hopefully) be quite helpful, as we’re tackling the best men’s style gear to wear on St. Patrick’s Day — and we’re doing it relatively affordably and quite stylishly (if I do say so myself). St. Patrick’s Day — St. Paddy’s Day, to all of us AP Style nitpickers — is a day that might’ve once meant skipping class for a few celebratory pints … if that’s still the case, let’s trade spots. Now though, you might find yourself at the office and then hopping around for a Black-and-Tan or two. As always, the key question is … what to wear? Specifically, how to dress in business casual style that’s still comfortable and situationally appropriate? Lucky for ya, ye Style Guide reader, you’ve got the luck of the Irish on your side and … ahh, who am I kidding. Let’s get to the #menswear, shall we? Follow along on Instagram and Twitter for all the style news & musings you can handle, and let me know how you feel about this #OOTD in the comments.
Beckett Simonon

A touch of green, a rugged cardigan and casual denim. All solid holiday picks.

A touch of green, a rugged cardigan and casual denim. All solid holiday picks.

The Shirt: Abercrombie & Fitch Garment-Dye Oxford Shirt, $39 — Here’s the focal point of your outfit, a nice way to show people you’re rocking some green — and an even better shirt to have with you for that spring bar crawl. 

The Cardigan: Iron & Resin Fletcher Cardigan, $110.98 — While you could also layer up with a piece like the Todd Snyder x Champion Pocket Sweatshirt, the Fletcher Cardigan offers similar comfort and visual interest.

The Denim: Nudie Jeans Lean Dean, $200 — Between the one percent stretch, the tailored-yet-comfortable fit and the casual rinsed wash, the Lean Dean is a nice pair of easygoing denim for a day that demands it.

The Boots: JackThreads Mac Desert Chukka, $49.98 — I haven’t tested these shoes out myself, but I’d wager they’ll be just the right blend of casual and comfortable. And hey, you get nice quality for a standout price.
Frank & Oak

The Belt: Abercrombie & Fitch Woven Leather Belt, $44 — Between the casual suede chukkas and the laidback Nudie Jeans Lean Dean denim, a textured belt is just the way to go. 

The Watch: Jack Mason Aviator 3-Hand Watch, $205 — While you could reach for a casual NATO strap watch like the Timex x Todd Snyder Mod Watch, the Jack Mason Aviator 3-Hand Watch is both durable and handsome.

The Everyday Carry: Scout Hook Keychain Bottle Opener, $60 — Part bottle opener, part keychain and just the handy accessory you need for a St. Paddy’s Day party. Hey, you won’t lose a bottle opener or your keys.

The Must-Have: Bellroy The Phone Wallet (iPhone 7), $89.95 — Even if you’re not blessed with an iPhone 7, accessories from Bellroy  should handsomely round out your St. Patrick’s Day. Plus, the Phone Wallet protects from all sorts of damage (spilled beer, anyone?).

It’s critical to keep in mind that you don’t want to go overboard on St. Patrick’s Day — that is, in matters of dress or matters of Guiness consumption. Working just a touch of green into your outfit is a solid way to nod to the day, yet a layering piece like the Iron & Resin Fletcher Cardigan helps offset it stylishly and casually. For the warmer spring months, it’s also a great move to have casual-yet-essential light wash denim like the Nudie Jeans Lean Dean in your rotation. Suede chukkas keep the outfit squarely in casual territory, and a durable watch like the Jack Mason Aviator 3-Hand is a go-anywhere essential. Rounding out your everyday carry with functionality and toughness in mind is also critical — enter the Scout Hook Keychain Bottle Opener and the Bellroy Phone Wallet. Lastly — enjoy the day in style, pick up the menswear you need for the occasion, and raise a glass for me!

Cheers,

-Beau

by Beau H.

2017 Spring Style Wish List

If it feels weird to be talking about spring — and this site’s Spring Style Wish List particularly — you’re not alone.  It seems not too long ago we were talking about the best men’s winter boots and stylish winter accessories — now, it’s not quite time to shelve those pieces yet, but let’s at least look to the season ahead. What do you say? Spring style can be quite an enjoyable time in the #menswear world — you still get to incorporate classic pieces, like a slim chambray shirt and classic leather chukka boots, and yet you get to do so with layered looks and tough spring outerwear. It’s not quite close (at all) to beach weather — and that means you don’t have to dress for summer heat  quite yet.  And of course, that pesky snow is melting away slowly but surely — break out that spring gear, folks! So, it’s a great time all around. I’d say you’ll certainly recognize some of the brands — and perhaps the pieces themselves — in the below wish list. What’s on your wish list? Weigh in via The Style Guide Facebook page, and follow along via Instagram to see how I style some of these picks. Cheers and happy shopping!

Beckett Simonon

#1. Abercrombie & Fitch Bonded Mac Jacket — $99

Your new favorite spring jacket -- perfect for rainy, breezy days & plenty of time in between.

Your new favorite spring jacket — perfect for rainy, breezy days & plenty of time in between.

 

Yes indeed, we’re starting things off with an excellent, classic and sharp jacket from the newly revamped Abercrombie & Fitch. The brand excels at creating modern updates to timeless, tried-and-true styles — we have former Club Monaco designer Aaron Levine to thank for that. And this cotton mac jacket is the perfect spring color and style; it’s fit for slipping on over a navy blazer or teaming with something as simple as a merino henley & light wash denim.  A&F certainly has plenty Wish List-worthy pieces — stick with us for more…

#2. Abercrombie & Fitch Garment-Dyed Oxford — $39

af-garment-dyed-oxford

Just when you thought A&F couldn’t get any better — they did. Right? Right.

Lest you thought we were done with picks from Abercrombie & Fitch, think again. Like the Abercrombie & Fitch Wool Shirt — an ideal winter layering piece — this simple-yet-stylish Garment-Dyed Oxford could be your new favorite spring shirt.  There’s nothing too fancy about it; it’s just a crisp silhouette with vintage-inspired detailing via the washed fabric, plus neat design touches in the way of the button chest pocket. Team this with sharp leather sneakers and stone chinos for easygoing seasonal style.

#3. Taylor Stitch Merino Henley — $98

Taylor Stitch

Potentially your new favorite spring layer, courtesy of Taylor Stitch.

If you didn’t know already, we here at The Style Guide are HUGE fans of Taylor Stitch. But who isn’t, right? The brand makes essential pieces for every season, and something as simple and yet well-made as the Taylor Stitch Merino Henley is a pretty easy choice when it comes to spring layering thanks to its breathable, comfortable fabric and great fit. Wear it on its own or wear it under a waxed trucker jacket for tough, effective style when it’s breezy out. Heck, wear this crisp Merino Henley under the  Abercrombie & Fitch Bonded Mac Jacket  as you dash out for a weekend coffee in the rain.

#4. Jack Mason Aviator 3-Hand Watch — $174.98

Jack Mason

A handsome, substantial watch made for plenty of spring style situations.

Texas-based Jack Mason does an outstanding job when it comes to translating rugged, masculine and stylish inspiration into unique timepieces. Take the strong, sturdy Aviator 3-Hand Watch Featuring a handsome brown leather strap and a unique gold case-black dial combo, it’s the ideal casual spring watch. With a substantial — but not overly large — 42mm case and handy features like Super Luminova markings and an aviation-inspired dial design, it’ll definitely be one of the more unique timepieces in your watch collection.

#5. Life/After/Denim Classic 5-Pocket Pant in White — $148

Don’t be afraid of 5-pocket pants, especially in white — style them with a chambray shirt and suede chukkas.

Seeing as they make such high-quality, coveted goods, it should come as no shock that Life/After/Denim menswear sells out in a hurry. The Classic 5-Pocket Pant in White is one such popular offering, and it’s easy to see why. White 5-pocket pants are a great way to break out of a dark denim rut in the warmer months, and the 5-pocket cut here should be tailored, trim and easily wearable with everything from an indigo pocket tee and suede Chelsea boots to stylish leather dress shoes — trust me.

Honorable Mention: Brooks Heritage Renshaw Sneakers — $89.99

A new classic, based on … well …. an old classic.

It’s always mighty tough to narrow down any Style Wish List to five picks, and these retro-inspired, unique Brooks Heritage sneakers just missed the cut. They still get the nod here for an honorable mention though, as these kicks are a new offering from a brand that’s perfecting the right balance between vintage style inspiration and modern wearability. I’ve worn Brooks Heritage sneakers on a summer trip to Las Vegas and a winter trip to Florida, and I’m excited to break out this pair in the warmer months ahead.
Frank & Oak

Alright, folks — who’s primed for spring style? Ideally, the above Wish List picks will get you thinking and planning all sorts of #OOTD looks in the weeks and months ahead. Updated takes on modern classics — like the Abercrombie & Fitch Bonded Mac Jacket and the Garment-Dyed Oxford  are fresh, quick ways to upgrade your style, and you shouldn’t forget about the layering potential and functionality of an excellent base layer like the Taylor Stitch Merino Henley. Lest we forget about your accessories game, don’t sleep on the toughness, affordability and handsome style of the Jack Mason Aviator 3-Hand Watch or the easygoing spring vibes of a crisp pair of tailored 5-pocket pants from Life/After/Denim. OK, all set with those notes? Shopping cart full? Good deal!

Good lookin’ out and stay stylish,

-Beau