Tag / made in america

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Rancourt & Co. Carson Low Sneakers

A fall-ready sneaker that blends high-quality construction and striking looks.

If you’ve clicked through the pages of The Style Guide recently, then you surely recognize Rancourt & Co. — and particularly, perhaps you recognize the Rancourt & Co. Carson Low. It’s the perfect pair of sneakers to wear to transition into fall; I don’t know much, but I’d bet you’ll agree. First seen in our #OOTD post on how to wear an Oxford shirt this fall, these handsome, rugged sneakers nearly check all the boxes when it comes to classic fall footwear. That’s no joke. While it’s nice to step into tried-and-true staples like suede chukka boots or leather work boots when the weather gets chilly, durable leather sneakers can work just as well from early September to early November. It’s especially helpful that in the case of the Carson Low, the fine folks at Rancourt & Co. have applied the same approach that makes the brand’s other footwear so great (Exhibit A: The 4-Season Ranger Moc). The brand got into making USA-made sneakers back in 2015, and they’ve amped up their approach this time around.

That means the upper on the Rancourt & Co. Carson Low starts with exceptionally high-quality Horween leather, a claim not many pairs of sneakers can boast. The Vibram Strighton outsole is another point of durable differentiation (say that five times fast). That construction ensures grip, traction and a visually interesting contrast from the Horween leather upper on the Rancourt & Co. Carson Low. It’s that blend of quality and style that makes the Carson Low so appealing — and certainly, worthy of an investment this season.

Racnourt & Co.

Roll your jeans now with the Carson Low, and then keep these sneakers around once we get into fall.

So, with a pair of sneakers this well-made and stylish, it begs the question: How can’t the  Rancourt & Co. Carson Low work in a plethora of style situations? Classic dark denim and a slim grey crewneck sweater? Add these sneakers, plus a rugged leather watch. A slim herringbone blazer and grey corduroy trousers? The Rancourt & Co. Carson Low is a tremendous style move. A black denim jacket and grey jeans at a pub crawl? Sure thing, the Carson Low is up to the task. The rich brown leather, sturdy sole and handsome silhouette makes these sneakers timeless, versatile and durable. Finished off with leather laces, the Carson Low could just be your new favorite pair of sneakers this fall. Again, they’re an investment that’s worth it on the footwear front.

Will you be buying the Rancourt & Co. Carson Low  for the fall season? How would you style these stellar sneakers? Let me know in the comments or on Twitter! 

by Beau H.

#OOTD: Wear This Outfit on Your Next Weekend Trip

Come along for the ride today on The Style Guide as we dive into an #OOTD that should come in pretty darn handy over these next few weeks and months. Folks, we’re talking today about a stylish, mobile and versatile #menswear look to wear on your next weekend trip. And we’re building it from the ground up, focused on wearable classics like stylish leather chukka boots and a durable, great-looking weekender bag. Whether this outfit takes you to a quaint country town, a friend’s house or an upstate trip — or, dare I say it, a “staycation” — I think you’ll be ready for the road, followed by a stop at a new favorite watering hole. Truly all the goods are here. I’m telling ya, you’re gonna love this Taylor Stitch shirt-jacket and the casual staple pieces we’re pairing it with,  It’s an outfit that’s just a bit rugged, just a bit refined and very ready for nearly anything. We’ve got a few choice layers to combat late summer and early fall breezes, plus a stylish leather watch to wear as you travel, too. All sounds pretty great, right? Dive in, leave any feedback below and hop on over to my Instagram or The Style Guide Facebook page if you can’t get enough of what we’re serving up.

Layer right on up with a stylish shirt-jacket, a classic Oxford and other staples ready for travel or play.

The Top Layer: Taylor Stitch Maritime Shirt Jacket, $148 — Seeing as chillier temperatures are approaching, it’s a wise bet to outfit yourself with a rugged shirt-jacket that slips on and off with ease — Taylor Stitch makes one of the best out there.

The Oxford: Flint and Tinder Texas-Made Oxford, $89 — If there’s one workhorse you need in your bag for a weekend trip, it’s  a classic Oxford shirt. Try this charcoal Oxford from Flint and Tinder — it’ll play nicely off the Taylor Stitch shirt-jacket, and it’s made in America.

The Chinos: Banana Republic Aiden Slim Rapid Movement Chino, $98 — A relatively recent offering from a brand that specializes in versatile gear for the modern man, these stretch chinos are perfect for a day of travel.

The Chukka Boots: Nisolo Luca Chukka Boot, $174.98 — Packing light on the footwear front is easy when you wear classic chukka boots like the Nisolo Luca Chukka Boot — agreed? Agreed.

The Socks: (Not Pictured) Anonymousism Cotton Stripe Sock in Khaki, $8 — You’d do well to stock up for your trip on at least a few sets of affordable, stylish and unique Anonymousism patterned socks.

The Briefs: Bread and Boxers Boxer Briefs in Black, $18 — Comfort and simple looks are two qualities you should always keep top of mind when packing (and wearing) briefs — Bread and Boxers will sort you out nicely.

The Watch: Timex Waterbury in Red Wing Leather, $139 — Just as with your classic Oxford, there’s one other essential you’re going to want to keep handy, and that’s the ever-stylish Timex Red Wing Waterbury. Durable, tough and sharp.

The Weekender: Bradley Mountain Utility Bag in Brush Brown, $159 — Sized just right for a few nights away, this handsome, rugged and stylish weekender bag from Bradley Mountain should be your next luggage purchase.

The Wallet: Herschel Supply Co. Raynor Passport Wallet in Nubuck, $49.99 — Even if you’re not heading overseas, having a useful, utilitarian-yet-stylish passport wallet like this one from Herschel Supply is a solid way to round out your everyday carry.

Well, do you think we packed enough essentials for your trip? Starting with a durable pair of leather chukka boots and a stylish weekender bag only sets you up for success — and layering accordingly keeps you traveling in style, too. I can’t say enough about the rugged versatility of the Taylor Stitch Maritime Shirt Jacket — it’s seriously perfect for chilly evenings and day trips alike. And we’d be remiss if we left out a classic Oxford like the one seen above from Flint and Tinder, another remarkably wearable addition to your travel gear. Well-considered details like Anonymousism patterned socks are also the name of the game, and the Red Wing Waterbury from Timex is a watch that could feasibly never leave your wrist throughout the trip. Have any questions on how to pack for your trip or what to wear on the road? Shoot me a note on Twitter — let’s talk menswear!

Thanks so much for reading,

-Beau

by Beau H.

The List: Buy This #Menswear to Close Out The Summer

How’s your month been? Tough to believe we’re barreling through August, ehh? Fear not — we’ve got #menswear shopping to slow down the rush of summer and bolster your wardrobe (and lifestyle) in the process. Yes indeed, we’re talking about the best gear to buy right now. This week’s entry in The List series here at the old Style Guide takes us into new territory. Namely, we’re talking one of the best coffee makers to buy now — as sold by Bespoke Post, of course — plus a stylish navy blazer and perhaps your new favorite sneakers. But wait, there’s more! Really, that’s just the tip of the iceberg. How we doin’? Keep up with my #menswear adventures on Instagram or Facebook — I look forward to hearing all about your purchases of some of the best men’s gear around … wink, wink.

Timex

Astorflex Softflex Sneakers in Peanut — $170

Astorflex

Sneakers that blend craftsmanship, sustainability and style in equal measure.

Ever find a pair of sneakers that exemplify somewhat rugged craftsmanship and yet also look pleasingly casual and laidback? That’s the Astorflex Softlex for ya.

Corridor NYC Stretch Blazer — $295.98

Corridor NYC

A uniquely well-crafted, durable and mobile blazer.

Some classic men’s blazers out there make you take a second look — such is the case with the handsome, refined and yet mobile Corridor NYC Stretch Blazer. Handcrafted in the Big Apple, it’s a one-of-a-kind men’s blazer to wear to close out summer.
Frank And Oak
Craighill Wide Wall Pocket — $32

Craighill

A neat way to store small goods and everyday essentials.

The Craighill Wide Wall Pocket is at once a neat bit of craftsmanship and also something that’s so simple … it’s as if someone should have thought of it sooner.  Cross another item off in your search for stylish men’s home goods.

Wally Walker Piuma Sneakers in Navy OR Stone — $109.98

Wally Walker sneakers

Yes, more sneakers. But these ones blend unique style with affordability.

A pair of stylish, classic sneakers in multiple colorways being offered for a little bit more than $100? Too good to be true. Not so with these crisp, simple Wally Walker Piuma Sneakers.
Greats

American Giant Premium Crew Tee — $36.50

 

American Giant

othing too fancy about a well-made T-shirt — just quality.

 Are you familiar with American Giant? They get a ton of credit for American-made gear ranging from henleys to nearly indestructible hoodies, but there’s no question that the brand’s simple, classic Premium Crew Tee gets the job done.

Florsheim

Hudson Made Morning Shift Body Wash — $28

Bespoke Post

Add this body wash to your daily routine — it’ll pay off.

Looking and feeling your best during the day often starts with the steps you take to get ready — and I’d wager that you’re going to want to include this crisp, masculine Hudson Made Morning Shift Body Wash in your routine.

Lum-Tec Combat B31 Bronze Automatic Watch — $899.99

An extraordinarily durable, tough watch.

Folks, believe me when I say this — Lum-Tec does NOT mess around when it comes to durable, rugged watches — and the Lum-Tec Combat B31 Bronze Automatic Watch is no exception. Yowza.

Bruer Cold Bruer Slow Drip Cold Brew Coffee Maker — $69.98

Bruer coffee

An innovative, dependable coffee maker.

Ahh, yes. Here’s the upgraded coffee maker we talked about. Specifically, this Bruer coffe maker specializes in cold brew — all the better to have around as these last hot summer days roll on by.

Mott and Bow Graham Denim Shirt in Medium Blue — $61.98

Mott and Bow

A crisp, quality denim shirt from Mott and Bow — tough to top.

We talked just a few weeks ago on this site about Mott and Bow denim shirts — and that’s why this handsome, refined-yet-casual and stylish denim shirt makes this version of The List.
AVI-8
This Is Ground Mini Tech Dopp Kit 2 in Cognac — $169

Pack this durable “dopp kit: with everything you need on the daily.

Hauling your everyday carry can be a tall order — but the handsome, pleasingly rugged and easy-to-use This Is Ground Mini Tech Dopp Kit makes your mission a whole heck of a lot easier.

Morning Culture La Playa Blanket — $34.98

Morning Culture La Playa Blanket

Don’t underestimate a blanket that feels cozy AND looks great.

Is there such a thing as a stylish blanket? Of course there is — the Morning Culture La Playa Blanket. For your next camping trip or bonfire, bring along the La Playa Blanket.

Abercrombie and Fitch Langdon Slim Jeans — $39

Clean, sharp and very affordable — that’s new denim from Abercrombie and Fitch.

Last but certainly not least — and because you need slim jeans to wear with your Mott and Bow denim shirt — we’re focusing on the latest, new-and-improved denim line from Style Guide favorites Abercrombie and Fitch. Affordable and easy to wear to your next rock concert.

OK, how’d we do today? I simply can’t get enough of, among other stylish men’s gear picks, the extremely rugged and durable Lum-Tec Combat B31 Bronze Automatic Watch. Let me know how we did in the comments below — and let me  know if you’ll be picking up a piece … or two … or three.

Happy shopping and thanks for reading!

-Beau

by Beau H.

See Now, Buy Now: Your Next Oxford Shirt Is Made in America by Flint and Tinder

Flint and Tinder

Just one way to wear the stellar, remarkably well-made Flint and Tinder Oxford via Huckberry.

If there’s a shirt that stylish guys like you and me could — or should — wear everyday, it’d be the classic Oxford shirt. And luckily for you and me, the latest entry in The Style Guide’s See Now, Buy Now series fits the bill quite perfectly; it’s simply a piece that should likely buy, well, right now.  We last talked about stylish wingtip boots for fall, and the astonishingly well-made, well-fitting and great-looking Flint and Tinder Texas-Made Oxford is assuredly next in line as you plan out your fall style wish list. Call it the changing of the seasons or the soon-to-be-changing color palette in nature, but as we look toward fall (and rugged fall style), yours truly is quite partial to the Flint and Tinder Charcoal Oxford . It’s worth noting that each of these classic Oxford shirts is stylish as heck, though. From the can’t-go-wrong light blue Flint and Tinder Oxford to the brand’s crisp white Oxford shirt, each can go just about anywhere (and it’s absolutely an asset that either one would team well with a pair of American-made denim from the fine folks at F&T).

And it’s certainly just as beneficial that they’ve found the right company to make these durable, modern-fitting Oxford shirts — a family outfit by way of El Paso that’s dialed in the slim-but-not-tight fit and well-crafted fabric (wearable even in the summer). Having checked out the Charcoal Oxford Shirt seen above, I can certainly vouch for this line through and through. Yes indeed, Flint and Tinder Oxford shirts check all of the boxes in your search for the perfect Oxford shirt. Able to team with a lightweight cotton sweater and slim chino shorts in the weeks ahead, and just as ready to wear under a crunchy tweed blazer alongside … you guessed it, rugged wingtip boots in the fall and winter. Oh, and they’re positively perfect in any color you pick up. When you find a shirt that great, it deserves your time, attention and dollars. True? True.

Is the Flint and Tinder Texas-Made Oxford the shirt for you? Let me know in the comments below!

by Beau H.

Online Shopping Picks: The Grilling Gear You Need for A Summer Barbecue

Let’s step outside of the menswear world for a second (well, halfway out). Looking to throw one last summer BBQ? Or at least one more? That’s what we’re talking about today on The Style Guide. Why the switch from our beloved #menswear to something a little grittier and gastronomically inclined? Well, the world’s not all about men’s style, for one. And if you’ve poked around on some of your favorite men’s lifestyle sites (like this one, maybe!), you’ll realize that plenty of these places — particularly our Style Guide pals Bespoke Post and Huckberry — stock a heck of a lot of effective, functionally rugged grilling gear and some tasty culinary staples, to boot. And if you read this blog, you already know how to dress for your next barbecue — no need to worry about that. So with that being said, I’ve compiled it all into one handy men’s shopping guide for you — from a durable grilling apron  to a tough backyard grill, you’ll find it in the list below. And if you’re not the guy manning the grill? At least you”ll be prepared with other backyard essentials like a stylish Bluetooth speaker — right? Have questions for me related to other essential men’s gear picks? Find me on Twitter, and leave a missive in the comments as needed. Fire up that grill and get to work!

Editor’s note: Portions of this post use affiliate links, from which a small commission might be earned. Thanks for supporting brands that support The Style Guide!

The Grill: PK Grills PK360 Grill and Smoker with Rib Rack — $799.98 

A highly functional, highly durable grill with a stainless steel rib rack built right in.

Start with what’s important, right? You need a dependable grill at the center of the action — and it helps if it’s got built-in functionality going for it. The PK Grills PK360 is “nearly indesctructible,” and it features a stainless steel rib rack built right in. It’s a marked changed aesthetically from other grills you might be used to using, and that’s not all bad — you’ve got more options with the PK Grills PK360, and a heck of a lot of value included.

The Tunes:  AudioPro T3 Portable Bluetooth Speaker — $249

A handsome, portable Bluetooth speaker perfect for these last weeks of summer grilling.

If you’re firing up the grill, why not fire up some of your favorite tunes? Great music keeps your grilling humming along, it keeps your guests happy … it’s a win-win. And the dependable AudioPro T3 Portable Bluetooth Speaker is the aesthetically pleasing, crisply designed and relatively affordable Bluetooth speaker you never knew you needed.

Greats

The Apron: Filson Antique Tin Cloth Apron — $75

Filson

The same sort of quality in an apron that you’d expect from a legendary Filson bag.

Don’t discount the utility of the perfect grilling apron. OK, perhaps the Filson Antique Tin Cloth Apron isn’t perfect … but at least a guy can dream? Made with the same rugged, durable touch you’d expect from Filson, the Antique Tin Cloth Apron is a heck of a lot nicer than those plastic, red-checkered aprons floating around grocery stores. It won’t look half-bad hanging up in your garage or workshop, either.

The Much-Needed Essential: Thieffry Linen Oven Mitt — $20

Thieffry

The rare oven mitt that actually looks … stylish? Yep, it’s not too good to be true.

Handling hot dishes or plates and just grabbing for whatever’s in the area? Not cool, man. The Thieffry Linen Oven Mitt? Distinctly cool — or at least, better-looking than other oven mitts on the market. And when even your oven mitt earns you style points, you can rest assured it’ll be a great day of grilling … at least, one can hope?
Timex
The Beverage: GrowlerWerks 64oz. uKeg — $149

GrowlerWerks

A surprisingly stylish and underrated way to keep your favorite craft beer fresh and cold.

Certainly, not everyone enjoys knocking back a ice-cold beer (and if you legally can’t because you’re under 21 … my apologies). But whether your a guest or the host, something as effective and underrated as the GrowlerWerks uKeg is very, VERY handy to have around at a weekend BBQ — especially if it’s stocked with the best beer to bring to a barbecue, ehh? It’s a mini-keg that’s the size of a half-gallon growler, so I’d say you should save this for folks who appreciate the good stuff. The stainless steel vessel and brass carrying handle on the GrowlerWerks uKeg will only get better with age — as is the case with the best men’s gear out there.

The Bottle Opener: Owen and Fred “You Earned It Bottle Opener” — $23

Owen and Fred

A well-designed, durable bottle opener that’s fun to have around at parties — and on the daily.

Serving some choice bottled beer in addition to the finest stuff you can fit into that GrowlerWerks uKeg? American-made menswear brand Owen and Fred offers you a little encouragement in the form of this smart-looking, durable and one-of-a-kind bottle opener.
Frank And Oak

The Grilling Essentials: Schmidt Brothers Teak Four-Piece Grilling Set — $49.98

Schmidt Brothers

Well-made grilling essentials offered at an affordable price.

The list continues to get longer, ehh? Add some style points to your grilling lineup with the functional Schmidt Brothers Teak Four-Piece Grilling Set, a finely crafted set of stainless steel grilling appliances. In short, it’s an affordably priced package of grilling gear that just so happens to represent an underrated and premium upgrade.

Timex

The Cutting Board: Viski Acaia Wood Cheese Board — $29.98

A premium way to serve your favorite snacks during your next cookout.

For serving small bites for your guests to snack on as you toil away in the heat of the grill, pick up the Viski Acaia Wood Cheese Board, a handsome way to serve gourmet snacks. It’s again a small upgrade that’s pleasing to look at and should go well with whatever rugged-refined decor you’ve got going on in your patio or living room — are we on the same page?
Frank And Oak
The Plates: Norden 8-Inch Plates — $40

A serious upgrade over regular paper or plastic plates.

Make no mistake, Norden makes plates that are, to put it lightly, no laughing matter. Handsomely designed and quite pricey, you might want to save your Norden dishware for smaller parties or special occasions — but they’re a nice upgrade — again with the upgrades — over paper plates and the like.
Florsheim
The Necessary Condiments: Ashman Manufacturing Co. Bourbon Steak Sauce — $8 AND Melinda’s Jalapeño Ketchup — $5.99

Bespoke Post

Take your pick between two tasty condiments — or bring both.

Want to be the hit of the party? And if not the hit, maybe a close second? Bring an array of tasty condiments to season your favorite grilled meats and vegetables — as crazy as it might sound, it just might work. Ashman’s Bourbon Steak Sauce and Melinda’s Jalapeño Ketchup are two unexpected choices that should add plenty of flavor to any dish.

When it comes to planning the perfect barbecue, there’s a lot of behind-the-scenes work that goes into keeping your guests entertained, well-fed and happy — and hopefully, some of this gear helps you do that. It all starts with your gear, and the PK360 Grill is as functional and well-made a piece as any. The little details — from the Filson Tin Cloth Apron right on through to condiments like Melinda’s Jalapeño Ketchup — really can help make your time grilling (and kicking back with a beer!) that much more enjoyable. Great tunes are a must, too — make the AudioPro T3 Portable Bluetooth Speaker an essential in your home, in your office and at your next barbecue. Take it from a guy who loves his rugged essentials — a small touch like the Owen and Fred brass bottle opener seen above deserves a spot on your back patio table as you grill away. And what’s the thing that brings people together the most? GREAT beer. Just kidding. But certainly, the GrowlerWerks uKeg is a nice way to serve your guests quality craft beers. Does that fill out your shopping list? I certainly hope so. Let me know any thoughts in the comments below, and supplement the above grilling advice with men’s style tips gleaned from my Instagram.

Happy grilling!

-Beau

Greats

by Beau H.

#OOTD: Here’s The Rugged Henley to Wear This Summer

If there’s one item I reach for more consistently than any other — no matter the season — it’s got to be a rugged men’s henley. Yes indeed, in the high heat of summer (the perfect time for a short-sleeve henley) and the chilling depths of winter (hello, slim long-sleeve henley), it’s simply an easy-to-wear, effective and stylish choice. But you knew that, right? After all, we talked this spring about how to upgrade your henley. There’s no question that it can easily layer under your favorite summer blazer or be worn on its own — crucially. And today’s all-new, hyper-stylish #OOTD here on The Style Guide covers perhaps the best short-sleeve henley to buy now — or at least, consider buying. And if you read the blog frequently — and shop the hallowed halls of Style Guide friend Huckberry — you should know the brand that makes it: The inimitable folks at Flint and Tinder.

As it were, the centerpiece of today’s outfit is the Flint and Tinder Supima AirKnit Henley, done up in comfortable, breathable fabric with a modern fit. The rest of this ensemble has all the trappings of a rugged, tough outfit that someone like, say, noted henley wearer Mr. Daniel Craig might enjoy wearing.  At any rate, I hope you’re excited to check out some slim dark blue denim, classic men’s boots and a few other hard-wearing touches — including a rugged casual watch. If I were you, I’d wear this outfit out to your next brew pub crawl or even a quick day trip out to the country. And it’s even got a couple pieces — like a stylish everyday backpack — that might get you from point A to point B in many a situation. I don’t want to ruin all the fun, though. Read on below and let me know how you like these #menswear picks!

Rugged men's henley

Take your (new) favorite rugged henley and layer it with a crisp bomber jacket, dark denim and tough boots — wear it now sans jacket, and keep this look handy come fall.

The Henley: Flint and Tinder Supima AirKnit Henley, $55 — First things first: Don’t be alarmed by the use of black here! This Flint and Tinder henley is crisp and slimming, and gents like Daniel Craig  make frequent use of black tees on their own.

The Bomber: Taylor Stitch Bomber Jacket in Charcoal, $188 — If you know Taylor Stitch, you know that they excel at tough, rugged and yet wearable pieces — this Taylor Stitch bomber jacket works for cool summer evenings and chillier fall days in equal measure.

The Denim: Abercrombie & Fitch Langdon Slim Coolmax Jeans, $88 — A&F, a favorite of The Style Guide, is back with a revamped denim line featuring revamped fits — the Langdon is slim, classic and wearble in August thanks to Coolmax technology.

The Belt: Sturdy Brothers Everyday Belt in Chestnut, $80 — Lest you think accessories don’t matter … think again. The folks at Sturdy Brothers make a heritage-quality belt that happens to mesh perfectly with this look.

The Boots: Astorflex Bootflex in Dark Khaki, $190 — Quality lace-up boots made with sustainable style in mind for under $200? That’s what you get with the surprisingly lightweight Astorflex Bootflex.

(Not Pictured) The Socks: Teva Benny Gold Socks (Limited Edition), $12 — Space can be limited in our #OOTD series, but socks that offer up a pop of pleasingly bright blue should pair well with the A&F dark blue denim.

The Watch: Lum-Tec Combat B35 Automatic Watch, $799.98 — You might say this rugged Lum-Tec watch is the grandaddy of them all. Beastly looks, excellent styling potential, rugged vibes, a handsome leather strap … the  Lum-Tec Combat B35 belongs on any wish list of the best men’s gear.

The Backpack: Topo Designs Klettersack, $188 — Don’t get me wrong, I love a stylish messenger bag as much as the next guy. But if you want a grab-and-go bag for a day trip or a bar crawl — particularly when paired with a rugged menswear ensemble — the Topo Designs Klettersack could be your best bet.

The Sunscreen: Salt & Stone Sunscreen (SPF 30) , $17.99 — Sunscreen is one of those things that’s likely the last item tossed in any bag — with Salt & Stone‘s crisp design (and important functionality!), you won’t forget it again.

Have you given any thought as to where you might take this outfit? It can go just about anywhere — an upstate day trip, a trip to the farmer’s market and your local park, an afternoon at your favorite watering hole … and I’d wager it’s all because of the rugged versatility of the Flint and Tinder henley shown here. And because it can go anywhere, it’s important you grab a similarly tough bag. For instance: Take the Topo Designs Klettersack and fill it with essentials like the Taylor Stitch Bomber Jacket and much-needed Salt & Stone sunscreen. And the best part is that you can easily complement your Flint and Tinder henley with other rugged basics, from dark denim to the crisp, stylish Astorflex Bootflex. What you’ve got on your wrist is equally important — my favorite part of this ensemble might be the Lum-Tec Combat B35. And if you read this blog, you know that the details make the difference — start with a heritage-quality belt and go from there.

Let me know: What do you think of this rugged #OOTD? Drop a line in the comments!

Thanks so much for reading,

-Beau

by Beau H.

Plugged In: A Chicago Weekend at Lollapalooza 2017

Lollapalooza 2017

Taking in Lollapalooza with my MVMT Watches Aviators, plus my rock-ready Need Supply Co. denim jacket and slim Abercrombie and Fitch denim — finished off with classic Astorflex suede chukkas.

It was under special circumstances that I hopped on an unusual Thursday night plane ride out of NYC to head to Chicago — and no, I didn’t take a wrong turn after happy hour. I hit the road last weekend to head to Lollapalooza 2017 in the Windy City — a truly momentous weekend packed full of highlights, from great #menswear to an amazing Friday headlining set by The Killers (a band I’d seen back in June) and more excellent tunes than you could take in across just two days. It was my second festival in as many weekends after attending the Panorama music festival here in NYC — with Governors Ball 2017 also under my belt this summer, you night say I’ve got it down to a science when it comes to what to wear to a music festival. What exactly did I pack and who did I see? Join me on another men’s travel style post — it should come as no surprise it was an amazing weekend that seamlessly blended my two big passions! Put on your favorite Killers track, and let’s rock.

I packed up my Owen and Fred Voyager Waxed Weekender with trusty essentials, from my Astorflex suede chukka boots to my Huckberry Explorer’s Cap.

The adventure itself really began on Thursday night, as I packed up my stylish weekender bag — namely, the Owen and Fred Voyager Waxed Weekender — with menswear essentials galore. To head from a full day at the office to the airport, I dressed in a mixture of comfort and style, starting with a new pair of Abercrombie and Fitch denim from the brand’s recently revamped line. The mobility, tailored fit and pleasingly faded wash matched nicely with one of my favorite Taylor Stitch shirts, the Sashiko Shirt — the cool detailing and texture makes it a four-season essential, and it’s yet another example of what Taylor Stitch does well. The combo was finished off with even more comfort in the form of my travel-ready Astorflex suede chukkas. There might not be a more versatile pair of three-season shoes than these classic suede chukkas, which can go from the office to the plane easily.

A stylish casual watch from Nautica and my reliable Huckberry Explorer’s Cap rounded out my travel style essentials. And the next time you hit the road, don’t forget to pack men’s grooming essentials — a few pieces from the Oars + Alps Athlete’s Grooming Kit (as seen on this site’s Style Pick of the Week series) helped me keep my skin in top form. What’s more, I even managed to prep for the festival on the music front — I plugged in my surprisingly stylish LSTN Sound Co. headphones from the essential Bespoke Post Vibes Box, and I was ready to go. The bottom line is this: When dealing with a day at work and an evening of travel, dress for comfort, style and mobility (like I did!).

Lollapalooza 2017

Easygoing essentials for a day of music and a day in the sun — particularly a fan of my classic SeaVees Army Issue Sneakers, and they teamed nicely with my tough, versatile Timex x Todd Snyder Military Watch.

My Thursday night arrival had me tired but wired (tired and wired?) going into an amazing, bright and sunny Friday full of live music. To take on Chicago’s heat, I kept things simple and stylish with a slim short-sleeve shirt from Old Navy, plus my laidback and comfortable Bridge and Burn Stringer Dune Shorts — two warm-weather style essentials fit for any trip.  And just as with Panorma, I found my SeaVees sneakers to be effective, comfortable and broken-in enough to fill that crucial music festival style void. And that blend of style comfort from my SeaVees sneakers proved quite effective for bouncing around Lollapalooza’s many, many stages. That meant staying on time was quite critical — as I’ve found on many a music-themed trip, my Timex x Todd Snyder Military Watch on a cotton NATO strap (similar style here) was a durable and stylish pick. I topped it all off with stylish men’s sunglasses — namely, a new favorite pair of sunglasses from Component out of Miami. And what exactly did the day have in store? Plenty — to say the least.

There aren’t many festivals where you’ve got the chance to see everyone from Brooklyn indie rockers Slothrust to classic modern indie pop duo Tegan and Sara to upstart British singer Bishop Briggs within a matter of hours, but Lollapalooza absolutely delivered in that regard — I  can’t say enough about the experience. A vibe-filled, sharp set from Phantogram paved the way for an exciting, anticipation-filled evening — a long-awaited show by The Killers tends to heighten the excitement of a music festival even moreso. Having just seen this remarkable band back in June, I thought I was ready — yet nothing can really compare to the power, energy and joy brought to the stage by Mr. Brandon Flowers and company. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: There’s really nothing that can measure up to seeing songs you’ve known for half your life being played out in person. When delivered by one of my heroes, Brandon Flowers, it was all the more special. (Editor’s note: Mr. Flowers inspired my love for denim jackets and black moto jackets, surely). 

From classic cuts like “Mr. Brightside,” “Read My Mind” and the roaring “For Reasons Unknown” to all-new cuts “The Man” and fan favorites like “When You Were Young,” this is a band that delivers on nearly everything that a fan could ask for. That included a soaring cover of fellow rockers Muse, plus a menacing (and yet wonderful) cover of the Joy Division classic “Shadowplay.” This is, simply put, an incredible band. I mean that sincerely, and it’s nothing short of an absolute joy to witness live. And as it were, I positively can’t wait for The Killers North American tour behind the band’s forthcoming new album, “Wonderful Wonderful” — what a run that should be. It was worth the trip in and of itself, and that’s no joke. Incredibly, I wasn’t quite fully tired out from Friday night — and Saturday promised even more tunes and even more #menswear.

Crisp and effective, rock-n-roll style featuring slim Abercrombie and Fitch Langdon denim and my classic Astorflex suede chukkas.

Although Saturday dawned hot and sunny once again, I went with sharp and simple style — perhaps inspired in part by the style of Brandon Flowers, who frequently favors all-black get-ups. For me, that meant injecting some color and texture on the footwear front with my Astorflex suede chukkas and topping it off with another pair of slim Abercrombie and Fitch Langdon denim in a slightly faded black wash. Perfect for a festival — particularly when teamed with my Knickerbocker Mfg. Co. Pocke Tube Tee. For taking on the day and seeing the vibe-filled, standout rock of The xx later, an all-black uniform certainly felt right — my trusty Timex for J. Crew field watch helped add some texture and visual interest to the look, too.  Once again, I just had to get ready for the day with the stylish and high-quality LSTN Sound Co. headphones from my Bespoke Post Vibes Box.

Saturday itself brought out a terrific mix of live acts, too. Canadian rockers Alvvays — a band that’s been on my list for more than two years now — brought a shimmery, sunny mix of indie rock to the Bud Light Stage in the afternoon. Later in the evening, personal favorites The Head and the Heart delivered just as rousing a performance as they did at Govenors Ball 2017 and on a winter road trip I took to Baltimore to see them play.  And throughout the day, Lollapalooza delivered just as solid of a mix of artists as one might expect — from L.A. rockers Warpaint to the joyous dance grooves of pop duo Sylvan Esso and the unique rhythm and quirky vibes of British rockers alt-J (another favorite of mine). The experience and atmosphere was truly jam-packed and lively — it was as busy a two days as I’ve had at a music festival, particularly navigating multiple stages and trying to stay on time. Again, dressing for a music festival in style proved absolutely critical, and I hope my gear was up to the test. As it were, my all-black get-up fit right in during a powerful, transcendent Saturday night headlining set by British rockers The xx —  another personal favorite and another band that made the entire trip worth it.

 

Travel-ready gear for the flight back — my Need Supply Co. denim jacket and my new Bridge and Burn Basic Tee got the job done on my top half, while my Kit Culture stretch twill pants were suitably travel-ready.

All too soon, it was time to hit the road back to Chicago — my schedule precluded me from staying another day to take in the powerful rock and spectacular live show that is Arcade Fire, but I left Chicago with nothing but happy memories from an incredible weekend of amazing music. And with a stylish weekender bag and men’s grooming essentials from Oars + Alps in tow, I made sure to dress for the road accordingly. I started out once again with my versatile Astorflex suede chukkas  — they’re as comfortable and sustainable a pair of classic chukka boots as you’ll find. They were a sharp complement to my Kit Culture stretch twill pants, a tailored set of chinos that feels like an easy-to-wear pair of sweatpants. When topped off with my Need Supply Co. Denim Jacket in 96 — a retro-inspired, versatile denim jacket — I was more than ready to deal with blasting airport air conditioning. Between the light wash and the quality construction, the denim jacket was a cool topper to a new Bridge and Burn Basic Tee — think an ultra-soft blended T-shirt built with made-in-America craftsmanship. The next time you hit the road, reach for breezy basics, a well-made denim jacket and go-anywhere pieces like suede chukkas. 

With all that travel in the books, I was glad to make it home last night — and it was all the better to get back to Brooklyn knowing I’d had such an amazing, fulfilling trip. Hopping on a flight to a music festival can feel like a long journey at times, but the trip was more than worth it — heck, seeing some of my heroes on the stage on Friday night made the trip in and of itself. I’m also lucky I was able to pack up just the right gear for the weekend — if I can continue to make the trip in years to come, I’ll be looking at a longer trek than just a subway ride … and I know it’ll certainly pay off.

Did you manage to make the trek to Lollapalooza? What did you bring along with you? 

Lastly — thanks for reading!

-Beau

by Beau H.

The List: Buy This New Men’s Gear for August

As a #menswear fan — and I mean, a BIG fan — it can be tough to sort through the plethora of men’s gear out there. That’s why I hope our ongoing Style Guide series The List is proving helpful, or at least intriguing and interesting. Oh, and hopefully not too expensive? But who’s to say, right? This post today marks the fourth entry in this ongoing journey through, well, a little of this and that. From stylish men’s home goods to the best summer sneakers and one or two (or three!) of the best men’s casual watches, this series covers a bit of everything. Get your credit card ready — or just your wish list — and read on. Thanks for kicking off your month with The Style Guide!

Bespoke Post Refresh Box — $45

Bespoke Post Refresh Box

One box packed with great gear for the price.

Leave it to Bespoke Post to offer up yet another affordable subscription box with tons of useful gear for the price.

Pacifico Optical Blair Sunglasses — $155

Pacifico Optical

Stylish, classic and easy to wear with just about anything.

Have you completed your search for stylish summer sunglasses yet? Finish it up with these crisp, subtly Pacifico Optical sunglasses.

American Trench Dress Socks (Six-pack) — $99

American Trench

Not one or two or three .. but SIX pairs of excellent American-made socks.

While it’s certainly essential to keep stylish no-show socks on hand for the summer months, classic dress socks from American Trench are just as essential to stock up on – agreed?

Areaware Concrete Desk Set — $50

Areaware

Like your regular office supplies … but better.

We’re back to Bespoke Post for a set of stylish, underrated and essential home goods. It’s the little details that count, and organization is certainly among them.

Brathwait Classic Slim Wrist Watch — $229

Brathwait

A clean, crisp and versatile watch.

For all this talk of rugged field watches and the like, it’s sometimes nice to wear a pleasingly crisp, simple and retro-leaning dress watch – like this one.

Bull & Stash Travel Stash Leather Journal — $25

Bull & Stash

A beautiful way to upgrade your everyday carry.

Bull & Stash makes leather goods of ridiculously great quality, and its Stash Leather Journal is certainly among that offering.

Korchmar Centennial Taft Limited-Edition Weekender — $620

Korchmar Centennial

Possibly the last weekender bag you’ll ever buy — agreed?

Every bit worthy of your hard-earned cash, this handsome and stylish weekender bag is the drool-worthy accessory you should pick up for every single trip for years ahead.

Oxford Pennant “Kill the Closest Snake” Pennant — $25

A rugged, eye-catching pennant to upgrade your office and your home in equal measure.

Perhaps you caught our Style Q+A with Oxford Pennant talking how to upgrade your home décor – and here’s one of the first pieces you should buy as part of that process.

Citizen Eco-Drive Chandler Watch — $220

A field-ready, supremely tough and relatively affordable Citizen Eco-Drive watch.

Much like the Brathwait watch featured above, this Citizen Eco-Drive watch is crisply made and versatile – ideal for summer and beyond.

With that last item … we’re closing out this set of additions to The List! What was your favorite pick of the above? I’m personally a huge fan of Oxford Pennant and particuarly, the rugged and edgy pennant option shown above. But again, it’s tough to pick just one! What do you think of these picks? Let me know on Twitter — looking forward to hearing from y’all!

Thanks so much for reading,

-Beau

by Beau H.

The List: All The Best New Men’s Gear to Shop This Week

From a durable watch to handy items for your everyday carry, check out the latest and greatest men’s gear — rare Russian River beer not included.

Ladies and gentlemen, feast your eyes on another rendition of The List — courtesy of your fashion department of one at The Style Guide, it’s a full rundown of the best men’s gear to buy right now. Similar to the gear seen above, today’s edition includes a bit of everything. Today, we’re looking at classics like stylish summer sneakers, versatile shorts, a handy yard game and essential everyday carry items.  Without giving too much away, you can read the rest of The List below. To keep up with my #menswear adventures the rest of the time, follow me on Instagram — if you please, that is.

Outlier Ramielust T-shirt, $125

Outlier

Made from the world’s oldest fiber, this tee is soft, breathable and breezy.

Way more than just your average summer tee, this revamped number from functional and minimally minded style purveyors Outlier features exceptionally breathable Ramie fabric — quite possibly the oldest fabric in the world.

SeaVees Legend Sneaker in Selvedge Denim, $90.98
SeaVees

A recognizable silhouette done up in crisp selvedge denim.

Handsome and uniquely wearable, SeaVees offers up yet another pair of potentially your new favorite summer sneakers — except these ones are made from rich selvedge denim. Wear ’em with slim chinos and a white pocket tee.
Arvin Goods No-show Socks (Three-pack), $30
Arvin Goods

Well-made socks that are ready for purchase in a handy pack of three.

Just what exactly are you going to wear with those SeaVees sneakers as shown above? Other than slim chino shorts and your favorite polo, that is? Comfortable, stylish no-show socks are absolutely the correct answer.

Greats

Taylor Stitch Short-Sleeve California Shirt in Red Madras, $118

Taylor Stitch

Terrific work — as always — from Taylor Stitch. Summer-ready pattern and color make this shirt a winner.

You’d expect a stylish short-sleeve shirt like this Taylor Stitch number to be sold out by now, right? Wrong. There are plenty of sizes left in this well-made shirt in a pleasingly summer-friendly pattern and fabric.

Shinola + St. Pierre Horseshoe Set, $130
Shinola

A modern American brand meets a classic American brand for the best-looking yard game you’ve ever seen.

Thought Shinola only made stylish men’s watches? Think again. They’ve teamed up with the largest producer of horseshoes in the world for a custom-branded set that’ll liven up your next backyard BBQ.

Flint and Tinder Texas-Made Oxford, $89

Flint and Tinder

A soft, well-made and tailored Oxford shirt able to be worn through the summer months.

Because every guy needs a classic, stylish Oxford shirt, this particular Flint and Tinder shirt makes this round of The List. It’s nicely tailored, made with Portuguese cotton and available in a range of colors. What’s not to love?

Worn and Wound  Harris Tweed Watch Roll, $200

The ideal carrying method for your watch collection — or part of it, at least.

It’s a bit hot to be thinking about wearing Harris tweed as a layering piece — but as a handsome accessory for your favorite watch? Absolutely. With trimming crafted from Horween Chromexcel leather, it’s quite simply a stellar piece.

Myles Apparel Everyday Shorts, $49.98
Myles Apparel

A well-cut pair of shorts that merge a summer-friendly color and solid design.

The hits, they just keep comin’ — right? As far as summer style essentials go, it’s tough to pass up tailored shorts that  blend athletic material and tailored wearability. That is to say: Buy the Everyday Shorts, ASAP.

Timex

Bespoke Post Shine Box, $45
Bespoke Post Shine Box

All the accessories needed to upgrade your summer eyewear.

I think we can more than agree that Bespoke Post does an admirable job curating stylish men’s goods. And the Shine Box, with handmade sunglasses and carrying accessories for just $45, is a stupendous value.
Hasami Gloss Blue Porcelain Mug — $27.50
Hasami

A stylishly designed mug for your morning (or afternoon) coffee.

We’re ending today on a non-menswear note (for once). Maybe it’s the clean design, maybe it’s the rich blue color — my favorite in the style world — or maybe it’s my love of coffee… either way, the Hasami Gloss Blue Porcelain Mug is on my list.
With that, we’ve come to the end of today’s post. Did you find any new, or investment-worthy, purchases? Leave your thoughts in the comments, or join me on Twitter to continue the discussion.
We’ll be back tomorrow for a very stylish #OOTD — see you then!
-Beau

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Blue Claw Co. Waxed Weekender

Blue Claw Co.

An all-around standout bag, from the waxed canvas exterior to the design exclusive to Bespoke Post.

Before you hit the road on your next trip, grab the Blue Claw Co. Waxed Weekender — you’re gonna need it, and I’ll tell you exactly why today on The Style Guide. For starters, you can make the argument that every guy needs a stylish weekender bag in his rotation. It’s an accessory that’s more than just a place to stash your stuff as you dress for summer travel. Think of it like an extension of your outfit — as I always say, the small details count, and your weekender bag is definitely among those details. The best men’s weekender bags get a few things right. Oftentimes, those things revolve around sturdy construction, expert detailing, handsome looks (all the better to pair with everything from a tee and jeans to a polo and blazer) and the ability to haul all of your favorite gear.Today, we’re all in luck — the Blue Claw Co. Waxed Weekender checks all of those boxes. It’s a worthy buy before your next trip — and thanks to Bespoke Post, it’s affordable as heck, and entirely unique Why should you snag the Waxed Weekender over other options, though? Keep on reading, fella.

Nautica

Notably, the Blue Claw Co. Waxed Weekender is exclusive to Bespoke Post — you really won’t find it anywhere else. It’s got the sort of rugged specifications and strong construction you’d expect from an American-made weekender bag. As it were, Blue Claw Co. designs all of its gear in Minneapolils and produces it with attention to detail — if this bag can stand up to Minnesota winters, it can certainly stand up to summer travel. It’s similar in size to the Owen and Fred Voyager Waxed Weekender, so it should be a trusty trip standby — that goes for whether you pack it with American-made denim aplenty or your favorite suede chukka boots and one of the best men’s dopp kits.

Blue Claw Co. Waxed Weekender

Handsome bridle leather accents and durable hardware give this bag a solid look and feel.

And as we’ve said before, the small touches set the Blue Claw Co. Waxed Weekender apart. As you can see above, touches like a solid brass zipper and complementary brass hardware give it all the durability you need when hitting the road weekend after weekend.  It can readily fit in an airplane overhead bin, and with that durable waxed canvas exterior, you can chuck the Waxed Weekender in the back of your car for a summer upstate trip or a weekend at the beach. That brings us to perhaps the most important point. The Waxed Weekender is a bit of an investment at $295 in full. However, get this: When you sign up for Bespoke Post, you can snag the tough, durable and stylish  Blue Claw Co. Waxed Weekender  for $215 — not a bad deal, ehh? And keep in mind that signing up for Bespoke Post also gives you access to the brand’s monthly subscription box for just $45. But that’s another post entirely. At any rate, the  Blue Claw Co. Waxed Weekender is among the best men’s weekender bags to buy now — that much is true. Will you be hitting the road with the  Waxed Weekender  in tow? Let me know in the comments, and catch up with us over at The Style Guide Facebook page!

Thanks so much for reading,

-Beau