The Friday Read: The Orwells, Canvas Jackets and Abercrombie & Fitch

Editor’s note: Expect these posts once a week on Fridays — consider this a jumpstart on reading for your weekend downtime. Expect a mix of style and non-style content. For more entries, click here.

There are weeks that, despite flying by in a blur, make you grateful for what you do and where you live. This week was definitely one of them. But first things first — how did you celebrate Valentine’s Day? Happily in love or happily alone? Hopefully, you found our Valentine’s Day style suggestion helpful. As for me, I kept quite busy this week with pursuits both #menswear and music-related — as seems to be the case these days. And luckily, there’s perhaps no better place to pursue both of these ends than NYC. Yes indeed, there’s probably nothing I love more than a great live show — and this week’s been full of them. It’s always an honor and a treat to check out a show at the legendary Mercury Lounge — a former home to bands (and personal favorites) like The Strokes and The National — and seeing an upcoming band like upbeat, powerful Aussie rockers Gang of Youths  gives me hope for the spirit of the genre. So, that kickstarted the week — and of course, I rocked my JackThreads Munro Leather Biker Jacket for the occasion. But, that’s not all. If you haven’t yet plugged your headphones into the high-voltage, no-holds-barred rock of Chicago natives The Orwells, look out. It was a treat to attend their album release show at hallowed Brooklyn venue/record shop Rough Trade NYC, and the group’s brand-new album, “Terrible Human Beings,” is one you’re going to want to spin if you appreciate a simpler era in rock. Oh, and last but not least …. it’s time for show no. 3 tonight! Again, some weeks fly by in a blur, but I’m beyond excited to see the fun, positive and infectious rock of Frank Turner and the Sleeping Souls, supported by another amazing band in their own right, Canada’s Arkells. Who’s ready? Now, before you dash out to your own slate of concerts and weekend activities, catch up with what you missed in men’s style (and yes, music) this week. Keep up in the meantime via Instagram and Twitter — TGIF and cheers!

Huckberry

  • Let’s get your weekend started with a nice #menswear deal — shall we? You might recall Johnnie-O from a few past entries on this site, namely as part of my packing for a November trip upstate. And if you need a stylish, luxurious cashmere sweater or a new spring polo to get ready for the season ahead — ‘cuz it’s coming — do we have a deal for you. Now through February 25thuse the code ‘GENTS17’ to get 10 percent off your Johnnie-O order! Yes indeed, that goes for the classic Player’s Blazer and the shirt that I myself picked up (and featured on Instagram) — the Dustin Denim Sport Shirt.
  • Need a new pair of spring footwear? Of course you do. Check out Esquire’s recent roundup of the best men’s sneakers to buy now.
  • It was a real treat to write about an essential outerwear item — that’d be a waxed canvas jacket — for GearMoose. Yes indeed, check out my roundup of the best men’s waxed jackets, folks.
  • Alright, because it’s Friday, let’s get down to business — The Manual teaches you how to make a Boilermaker this weekend. Cheers!
  • Lastly — we’ll be back with a new Style Pick of the Week tomorrow, but keep yourself occupied for now by reading about the essential, rugged Abercrombie & Fitch Chamois Shirt.

And with that, I’m off to another show — how about yourself? If that’s the case, learn all about how to dress for your next rock concert. See you in the front row!

-Beau

Style Pick of the Week: JackThreads Munro Leather Biker 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.

Possibly your new favorite leather jacket? Munro Leather Biker Jacket by JackThreads. Scarf by S.N.S. Herning. 505C Denim by Levi's. Kimbo Chelsea Boots also by JackThreads. Red Wing Leather Watch by Timex x Todd Snyder. Glasses by Frameri.

Possibly your new favorite leather jacket? Munro Leather Biker Jacket by JackThreads. Scarf by S.N.S. Herning. 505C Denim by Levi’s. Kimbo Chelsea Boots also by JackThreads. Red Wing Leather Watch by Timex x Todd Snyder. Glasses by Frameri.

If you’ve ticked through your list of classic men’s style essentials as of late — from tough winter gloves to a classic Oxford, dark denim and stylish leather boots — maybe, you’ve found your wardrobe is missing just a bit of … edge. Coming from a writer who loves his outerwear, that’s what I found as of late. And while there’s something to be said for classic pieces like an authentic U.S. Navy peacoat and even a maritime-inspired wool jacket,  adding that edge can be a neat way to switch things up no matter the season. Folks, that’s where the JackThreads Munro Leather Biker enters the picture this week on The Style Guide.  It’s another stellar addition to an ever-expanding menswear line that should be on your radar ASAP. A leather biker jacket is an edgy-yet-classic piece, worn by the likes of Marlon Brando decades ago, popularized by legendary rockers The Ramones and found through the present day on the likes of The Killers’ Brandon Flowers. It really is among just a few menswear pieces that have true staying power. And lucky for all of us, JackThreads has taken that classic approach and put its own affordable and still-stylish spin on it. I’ve had the chance to rock the Munro Leather Biker around Brooklyn these past few weeks, with pleasing results. Although I love my rugged denim jacket and my slim topcoat as much as the next guy, it just might be my new favorite piece of outerwear — not least because of the slightly edge vibe and excellent fit.

Just one way to wear this jacket. Classic Henley by Todd Snyder. 505C Denim by Levi's. Kimbo Chelsea Boots also by JackThreads. Ranger Gloves by Grifter Company.

Just one way to wear this jacket. Classic Henley by Todd Snyder. 505C Denim by Levi’s. Kimbo Chelsea Boots also by JackThreads. Ranger Gloves by Grifter Company.

JackThreads, as is the brand’s custom, keeps things simple and straightforward with a bit of characteristic flair in the form of a slanted chest pocket. It looks and wears slightly thinner than the beefy leather jackets of years past, but that’s not a bad thing. In fact, it makes it perfect for layering over other casual weekend pieces (my reliable-as-ever Todd Snyder x Champion Pocket Sweatshirt among them). It also adds a bit of flair when worn more simply — say, with a striped henley and the concert-ready Levi’s 505C denim.  Of course, there might not be a more rock-and-roll combo than Chelsea boots and a biker jacket, so it’s also worth trying that move when styled up for Saturday night — or when dressing for your next concert in general. Now, a leather biker jacket is certainly a bold move — it’s one thing to wear this jacket out to your favorite local pub, and it’s another to show up to your next meeting wearing it. So, I’d say tread carefully — agreed? Rest assured though, it can work as a blazer substitute in the right setting — worn with slim navy trousers and a blue Oxford, for example. And for under $250, you’re at least saving some coin compared to buying a more expensive jacket from a legacy brand. So, that’s also a plus. With those style tips in mind, I’d say you should pick up the Munro Leather Biker and get ready to rock. (Cue fist bump, air guitar).

Cheers!

-Beau

Beckett Simonon