July 8, 2015July 8, 2015 by Beau H.

What To Wear Today: Beat the Heat

Editor’s note: For more posts covering #WTWT (What to Wear Today), click here.

When it’s hot out, there’s the temptation to stray from dressing well and move towards dressing more basic – less layers equals less heat, right? As with any pursuit though, hot weather shouldn’t equal less attention to detail – and it doesn’t have to mean that. Certain staples can carry you through the season while still keeping you looking good.

Just one way to beat the heat in style — a polo from this year’s Michael Bastian x Uniqlo collaboration.

Starting up top, while a stylish T-shirt isn’t a problem in and of itself, on some occasions a polo looks more crisp – and unlike a T-shirt, it can work more readily on its own at the office, too. You could also put forth a more fashion-forward take on the T-shirt though, as style legend (and Esquire Fashion Director) Nick Sullivan does here. It’s a look that simultaneously casual and cool, but not sloppy in the slightest (the key is the fit of the blazer, along with its more rumpled texture – a jacket from this list might do the trick while also working in spring and even fall if layered correctly).

Another versatile layering option that could work in the heat. Pocket T-shirt by Everlane. Unconstructed blazer and linen microdot pocket square by J. Crew Factory.

Those who prefer a more tailored look would be wise to reach for a linen buttondown, something with some cooling texture but in the traditional shirt structure – Stock Manufacturing Co.’s shirts are made in America and hit the mark perfectly (a price is paid for that quality, though). On the budget end of things, the versatile Oxford-cloth button down can be worn with almost anything and can be picked up for a positive steal from Uniqlo, although sizing is somewhat scattered at this point.

A pair of crisp, tailored, go-anywhere chinos like these from Apolis are equally wearable in the summer as in the fall and winter.

And in the summer months as well as well as the rest of the year, the ever-versatile chino is your friend – traditional dress pants here could be a little too insulating if you need to be out and moving. If a dress pant is unavoidable, plenty of brands stock suit separates that combine lighter colors and textures with a slimmer cut (J. Crew’s Bowery line accomplishes this task phenomenally). Shorts worn in a more daring fashion are also on the table for the everyday now as well – believe it or not! Check out ways to style this bolder move here.

Just one shoe option to make things more bearable on a hot summer’s day. White sneakers by GREATS Brand.

If you simply can’t put away dark denim and don’t mind the heat, a classic pair in a straight or slim cut with a dark wash is never out of the question, although light-wash jeans still have business-casual potential as evidenced by this look here. Footwear is another area that’s going to really make or break both the versatility and the overall “cooling” factor of an outfit. Think leather loafers, crisp white sneakers or even runner-style sneakers in a neutral color. Any of those three options could work seamlessly with slim chinos and a polo, or a well-fitted T-shirt and blazer combo.

And because socks are really a prerequisite for extending the life of your shoes, a set of stylish no-show socks from a brand like Richer Poorer could work exceptionally well – the brand’s no-shows in particular are well-priced, well-designed and very comfortable. Wearing no-show socks with dress shoes is a move that’s oft-debated, but if the shoe is comfortable in that instance and the move isn’t too attention-grabbing, it could absolutely work (wearing that look to a boardroom meeting might not go over too well though, the thought goes!).

The Sturhling Original Asoct Agent is a crisp, classic option for both casual and dressy summer wear.

Unlike socks, other accessories are dependent on the situation to some degree – but keepings minimal and crisp with a trim leather watch is always flattering to any pared-down look (I.e. the T-shirt and blazer combo mentioned here). In sportier situations though, a NATO strap is both functional and can still be swapped without too much work into a shinier steel dive watch dial or even that leather dress watch.

This shot offers a look at the versatility of a classic braided leather belt (this one’s from Target’s Merona line).

More casual belts are going to be your friend as well – think something with the same texture as a fall belt, like this functional and inexpensive braided leather option from Target, or this cotton braided belt from J. Crew Factory. A two-sided reversible belt could also pull double duty if a middle-of-the-road option is needed.

Ultimately when it comes to summer style, it’s a matter of choice –make the choice to keep things tailored, crisp and put-together despite the heat, and a world of style possibilities will open up from there. Crucially, items that work throughout the year – that slim T-shirt under sweaters in the winter, those chinos during transition times in the fall – can still work here when mixed the right way.

Let me know – how are you beating the heat? What combos or items from this list would you try out? Which ones would you leave in the closet? I’m always open to questions – hit me up via beauhayhoe@gmail.com or on Twitter @BoKnowsClothes.

July 6, 2015 by Beau H.

Style Q+A: United By Blue

The interior of the seriously cool (and ethical!) United by Blue flagship store and coffee shop. Photo courtesy of United By Blue.

Editor’s note: To check out other Style Q&A pieces, head here.

In recent years, it seems that consumers have been paying more and more attention to the little things: how and where (and why) their clothes are made, for starters. And the type of impact that clothing companies have on the world outside the style and fashion sphere has grown increasingly important, too. During a stop at the outstanding Pop-Up Flea trade show and exhibition earlier this spring in NYC, I came across an eyecatching booth outfitted with rustic décor, durable chore coats and soft T-shirts. It quickly became apparent that United By Blue wasn’t any ordinary clothing company schilling at trade shows, though. Founded in 2010, the brand aims to create a direct impact through the sale of each and every product by removing one pound of trash from oceans and waterways through clean-ups organized by the company. It’s a rather astonishing and inspiring mission, and it goes without saying that the product they sell to make it happen is pretty neat, too (I’ve previously written about their Stillwater Board Shorts for GearHungry). They also stock an extremely well-curated selection of home goods , bags and outdoor gear while simultaneously running a coffee shop at the brand’s Philadelphia flagship, among other Northeast-based retail locations. I caught up with co-founder Brian Linton via email for a few brief questions to learn more about the company’s roots, what makes the brand tick and what plans they have for the future.

A United By Blue clean-up taking place. Photo courtesy of United By Blue.

The Style Guide: Talk to me about the founding of United By Blue and the ‘A-ha!’ moment that led to its creation?

Brian Linton, United by Blue: United By Blue started after I was running a brand that was donating a portion of proceeds to ocean conservation. It lacked impact because I wasn’t able to measure the environmental goodness of what the money achieved. United By Blue was a way to get our hands dirty. It is a brand created with a focus on creating the infrastructure and systems within a for-profit business structure that would normally only be present in a non-profit. We organize and host cleanups on an ongoing basis, all from within the company. We don’t outsource or donate money to others to do environmental good in our name.

TSG: What has it been like to run a company equally focused on clothing and social/environmental good? Has it been difficult to merge the two?

UBB: Certainly it’s been a difficult but fun journey! Merging the two works because we consider ourselves an outdoor brand. And being in the outdoor industry, our customers love and care about the outdoors. Therefore, the overlap is more natural than it may seem. We are able to often partner with the retail stores that sell our products on cleanups in their local communities, mobilizing customers to become volunteers and attend a UBB cleanup.

TSG: Are there certain product categories the brand isn’t in currently that you’d like to expand in the future?

UBB: As a lifestyle brand, we are constantly expanding our offerings. This past season, we launched an awesome line of men’s board shorts and will be expanding the swim category in the future. We’ve also put a lot of energy and focus into developing more women’S dresses, which will be launching over the coming seasons. You can also expect more gifts and home goods later this year.

The brand’s Asbury Park, New Jersey store. Photo courtesy of United By Blue.

TSG: Are there areas of the country where the brand would like to expand in terms of either a retail presence or stockists?

UBB: We are an East Coast brand and are therefore much more prevalent there. Although we have some solid distribution along the West Coast, this is definitely an area that is a reflection of our brand vision and a place we would love to grow.

TSG: Any upcoming collaborations or partnerships you might be able to discuss briefly?

UBB: We just launched a collaboration with Roots Canada that will be sold through our stores as well as their stores through Canada and the US. It’s a line reflective of our shared passion for the outdoors and the importance of protecting it.

Check out United By Blue on Instagram if you have a hankering for beautiful lifestyle and scenery shots (paired with durable and stylish products), or give them a follow on Twitter, where they frequently run giveaways and other neat promos.

July 4, 2015July 4, 2015 by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Club Monaco Jacquard Stripe T-Shirt

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.

Soft fabric, stripes and a slim fit check all the boxes for a great T-shirt.

Soft fabric, neutral stripes and a slim fit check all the boxes for a great T-shirt.

First of all on this fine Saturday — happy Fourth of July! Wearing anything from the Fourth Of July style suggestion earlier this week at all? Now, onto this week’s Style Pick. As with other weekly selections in recent months, like this short-sleeve henley from Pistol Lake or this pocket T-shirt from Gustin, some might wonder — what’s the point of featuring a T-shirt? It is, after all, perhaps the most basic men’s style item out there. But a slimmer-fitting T-shirt with some unique texture and styling potential is an excellent upgrade over a standard tee (like the ones you might wear to the gym or to do yard work). A T-shirt with horizontal stripes specifically accentuates the wearer’s chest and shoulders while remaining casual in nature. Most importantly, this cotton-linen blend from Club Monaco is everything you could want in a warm-weather tee — trim-fitting, stylish and flattering, with a neutral stripe mix of black & white. It’s also pricey, unfortunately — like other stylish warm-weather picks from the same brand. If a bolder striped tee (and a cheaper price) is more your thing, give this V-neck from Old Navy a shot.

Behold the versatility of a slim T-shirt. Pocket tee by Everlane. Unconstructed navy blazer and linen dot pocket square by J. Crew.

With high-low style combos continuing to fly down the runways and pop up in street style shots (exhibit A here), a striped slim-fit tee is still a warm-weather go-to option for layering under an unconstructed blazer, as seen above, or pairing with a great set of chinos. It’s also the best pick up top for simply throwing on with some tailored shorts. Casual touches like low-profile white sneakers can pair seamlessly with any of the aforementioned get-ups at an agreeable price, too– a must if you’re dropping about $80 on a T-shirt. But for the coming summer months, a striped tee is nearly indispensable — and you can also get mileage out of it as a layering piece in the fall and winter. Worth the price? I’d say so.

Do you own any Club Monaco tees? What’s your favorite way to style a slim-fit T-shirt in the warmer months?

July 3, 2015July 3, 2015 by Beau H.

The Friday Read: Fourth of July, Shake Shack and Paris Fashion Week

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.

With one day left ’til the Fourth of July, have you made it where you’re going for the weekend yet? Know what you’re going to wear? If you still haven’t picked out an outfit, look here. And if you’re just throwing together a bag last-minute — hold your horses, partner, best to pack in style with these tips. It’s a shortened week at my office, but yet another busy one. Thankfully, we’ve got the weekend here — and some stylish reads with which to kick it off. Check out the below picks this week, featuring a double dose of Esquire style content and the best burgers around. And if you do happen to be in the Hamptons on the East Coast this weekend or anytime before July 11th, be sure to swing by the Steven Alan x GREATS Pop-up Shop at 75 Main Street; the two brands will be offering up a specially-curated selection of GREATS kicks in a truly lux environment. Now, onto this week’s reading picks.

As tomorrow is everyone’s favorite patriotic holiday, Thrillist put together its list of the most American … Americans. Yep, you read that right. A fun little list, though.
For those watch nerds out there,Esquire examines whether a vintage Patek Phillipe actually inspired the pricey, futuristic-leaning Apple Watch — it seems likely the more you read that piece, although design inspiration certainly comes from many different places.
And continuing to roll right through the esteemed publication’s digital offerings, Esquire made note of an important trend throughout Paris Fashion Week — that of slim suits. While silhouettes have run the gamut from baggy to severe across past seasons, that’s still good news for those of us who prefer a trimmer-cut suit.
Long Read of the Week: As the “better burger” explosion continues, Fast Company takes a look inside the success — and commitment to detail and quality — that’s made Shake Shack such a fast-growing (and delicious) success.

Shopping for some new summer gear anytime soon?

Check out five excellent T-shirts to get you through the hot weeks ahead as part of my latest post for VOUCH Mag.
If you’re also in need of some stylish slip-ons, check out a quick-hit spotlight I wrote up for GearHungry on the outstanding GREATS Leather Wooster Slip-on (full TSG review coming in mid-July!)

June 29, 2015June 28, 2015 by Beau H.

Style Suggestion: Fourth of July

Putting together an outfit for the holiday that’ll hopefully cause some fireworks (that is, in the reaction to said outfit).

Editor’s note: For more Style Suggestions covering what to wear at everything from a summer wedding to other holidays, head here.

In just a few short days, that well-known patriotic holiday centered primarily around fireworks, good food and great times will be here. It’s really starting to warm up everywhere, and that presents some tricky scenarios as far as what to wear while keeping cool and still looking good (if you’re curious about other Fourth of July options to wear, head here for last year’s rundown). Fourth of July is another summer holiday that, much like Memorial Day, can offer the potential for situations ranging from ultra-casual to a little more polished. Here’s an outfit that should toe the line between both. And if your holiday plans involve hitting the road, check out this post for accessories to pack, and this post for a primer on your potential travel get-up itself.

The Shirt: Michael Bastian x Uniqlo Polo, $14.90 (Sale Price)

One of the many options from this year’s collaboration should keep you cool and looking sharp. Striped webbed belt by J. Crew Factory. Silver dive watch by Invicta Watches.

You read that price above correctly. This year’s collaboration between the noted American designer and the fast-fashion outlet has been another fairly successful seller, yet those prices are dirt cheap right now — so you could go a couple different ways with a purchase, from a grey-and-red striped option that nods to the holiday yet also throws off sportswear vibes, to a more straightforward military-style chest pocket number. Heck, at that price you could buy both of ’em. Either way, these polos have a trim fit and aren’t too dressy or casual, whether you’re grilling in the backyard or heading to a nice patio restaurant. If a lightweight jacket is needed, you could throw on a neutral, lightweight (and classic) Harrington style from Ben Sherman US.

The Pants: Mott and Bow Denim, $96

The Moso in Dark Blue in Skinny Fit from NYC-based Mott & Bow.

Now, $96 certainly isn’t cheap to drop on a pair of denim when some classic Levi’s go for about half that. However, Mott & Bow denim isn’t a heavy, overly rigid set of jeans that’ll cause overheating if the weather’s too hot. In fact, the brand’s Comfort Denim line offers jeans with 2% elastane stretch built in, for a pleasingly comfortable yet still slim fit. The Crosby in Dark Blue offers a versatile straight cut and a wash that could work across multiple seasons (even better — you can get 15% off your first purchase with the brand here). Tucking in the polo with those jeans is up to you; the Michael Bastian x Uniqlo polos seem to be cut slim enough to work either way. If it’s just too atrociously hot for pants, the Stadium Short from J. Crew Factory mixes a cool chambray fabric, flattering fit and an elastic waistband for ease of movement (potentially of use after wolfing down some hot dogs).

The Belt: Land’s End Club Stripe Elastic Belt, $39 OR H&M Braided Belt in Light Beige, $12.95

Take your pick between a preppy Land’s End option and a textured H&M pick.

Unlike a more typical casual braided leather belt, the Land’s End option leans even more casual thanks to the elastic webbing, while still injecting some preppy style into your get-up. The mixed media option & beige color makes this a belt you could also wear in the spring & fall; conversely, you could go with a more patriotic red striped option. The H&M number also uses a neutral color and some texture to break up an outfit that might look a bit too stuffy with a plain leather dress belt — the incredibly cheap price doesn’t hurt, either.

The Shoes: GREATS Brand Leather Wooster Slip-on, $149

A close-up look at both the Blanco and Cadet versions of this versatile and sleek shoe. Photo courtesy of GREATS Brand.

GREATS definitely does get a lot of play on this blog, but with good reason — no brand right now is making shoes with the type of construction they make, for the low price point they offer. Crisp, casual options like the Wilson in White or the Rosen Runner in Navy could also be good pick-ups here for an even cheaper price. The Leather Wooster specifically is a relatively new offering from the brand that can go more casual or a bit dressier because of that sleek, no-laces look. The Cadet (or Navy) shade is perhaps going to be the most versatile choice here, although Nero (or Black) would certainly be equally adaptable. And to check out another way to style the Cargo (or Olive) shade of the Leather Wooster, head here.

The Socks: Richer Poorer Beginner No-Show Socks 2-Pack, $15

Two basic colorways among other choices at an affordable price.

When you’re throwing on slip-ons as comfortable and well-made as the Leather Wooster, socks might actually not be much of a worry. However, a solid pair of no-show socks like these Richer Poorer no-show socks offer a layer of protection for your shoes and your feet. That’s especially important if you’re spending lots of time on your feet during the holiday. This pair should be a true no-show, offering that much-coveted, sleek sockless look. The price point isn’t too bad either, and the range of colors means you could pick up a few pairs to blend in with different types of footwear.

The Watch: Stuhrling Original Aquadiver Manta Ray Rubber Strap Watch, $83 OR Skagen Steel Mesh Watch, $165

Two choices, one sporty and one sleek, for a holiday that could involve activities in both areas.

Just as with Memorial Day, perhaps your Fourth of July plans involve heading to the beach or a body of water; while you don’t want a watch that’s clunky and overly large, you still want something that’s durable and tough — the Stuhrling Original Aquadiver (full review here) stands up to the test and doesn’t look too much like a digital sports watch. On the other end of the spectrum, the Skagen Steel Mesh Watch is super crisp and clean — no wasted design or added touches here. It is a bit pricier, but you get a watch that’s sharp enough to be worn during the week, and eyecatching enough to be worn on the weekends.

The Sunglasses: Randolph Engineering Concorde Flash Lens Sunglasses, $169

The Concorde Flash Lens series from Randolph Engineering — an all-American pair of sunglasses for an all-American holiday.

This pair was first featured on the blog as this past week’s Style Pick of the Week, and they are lookers indeed (made in America, too!). There’s certainly nothing wrong with sunglasses you already might have, especially if they’re a timeless shape like an aviator or even the resurgent Wayfarer. But these shades as pictured here offer up a vibrant set of blue lenses that complements the theme of the holiday (if you’re into that sort of thing), while providing a style that’s versatile the entire year. The fact that they look like Mr. Bond’s preferred choice of eyewear in Skyfall isn’t a bad thing, either.

While these clothes can help you look good, the most important thing about this holiday is celebrating the occasion with family & friends — that’s something to be kept in mind no matter what you were.

Will you be picking up any new items for the Fourth of July or the summer season in general? What’s your go-to fireworks-watching outfit?

June 27, 2015June 25, 2015 by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Randolph Engineering Concorde Sunglasses

The Concorde Flash Lens series from Randolph Engineering — looks similar to those worn by a certain secret agent, yes?

Chances are, where you live, it’s getting hot right now about now. And sunny. Possibly even very sunny — what do you use to shield the sun’s rays stylishly? That’s a great question, and that’s why we’re here with this week’s Style Pick of the Week. It can be difficult to find sunglasses that strike a decent middle ground in terms of price, lack ornamentation or logos (looking at you, Ray-Bans), and still look good. And as far as American-made sunglasses — well, that whittles things down even further. One would be remiss to leave out American Optical, on that note. But let’s go a different direction: Randolph Engineering’s reputation is rock-solid, their sunglasses aren’t insanely expensive (unlike, say, a similar shape worn by Mr. Bond) and the quality is self-evident. You’re getting military heritage and modern styling potential. While they stock a few different frame shapes (including a more squared-off aviator), the Concorde Flash Lens collection ties in that classic aviator shape and features looks that hit dead-on for Bond’s sunglasses, while being about half the price. Two frame options, 57mm and the larger 61m, are available — although some options take sizing down to 52mm. (A note on price: If you’re on an even tighter budget, the ever-dependable J. Crew Factory has a host of options from flashy to traditional).

Another sleek aviator option from Randolph Engineering, the regular Concorde series.

While some would argue aviator sunglasses look a bit too “police-like”, it’s arguably the most versatile sunglass shape out there — thanks to the sleek chrome styling of the Flash Lens series in particular (plus the versatile blue lens color), these sunglasses work in situations both dressy and rugged-casual. Heck, the aviator style works particularly well in all seasons. And compared to even the regular Concorde series (no slouch in the looks department, either), this pair is $50 cheaper. Of course, you can’t throw on a great pair of sunglasses without some sharp swim trunks and a short-sleeve henley.

Do you own any sunglasses from Randolph Engineering? Would you consider picking up this pair? And what’s your go-to frame shape when the weather heats up?

Ben Sherman US

June 26, 2015June 26, 2015 by Beau H.

The Friday Read: Epaulet Sneakers, GAP Closings and the Most Stylish Men Alive

Can you believe it’s almost July? Unbelievable, truly! Have you done any traveling yet this summer? I’ve been in the midst of starting a new job this past month while mixing in a family wedding and a music festival; both have made it a great summer to date. Now, we’re almost on the Fourth of July, and on that note, we’ll have a style suggestion coming up for your reading pleasure next Monday. In the meantime, I suggest you check out my weekly roundup below of only the best pieces fit for weekend reading — and let me know what you’ve been reading yourself on Twitter or via the Contact page!

Design and style website Selectism details Epaulet’s stunning new line of made-in-America unfinished leather trainers (sneakers, to us common folk)
My buddy Joe over at the always-stylish Dappered reflects on the news earlier this week that GAP will close a quarter of its stores by recapping 10 of the best pieces from the brand in recent years (including one item that also appeared in this site’s Style Pick of the Week series)
NBA superstar LeBron James made GQ’s list of the 20 Most Stylish Men Alive and talked to the menswear magazine briefly about his style choices and inspiration (on that note, anyone else have some qualms about that list?
Long Read of the Week: In a fascinating set of entries, 10 New Yorkers share their most memorable “dusk to dawn” nighttime memories of the city that never sleeps

Need more of The Style Guide?

My latest piece for Effortless Gent, covering five ways to wear slim shorts this summer, was published on Thursday; check it out here!
Might I also suggest an earlier Style Guide entry this week detailing stylish men’s dress shoes on a budget?
Lastly: If you’re shopping for some new denim, you might want to give Mott & Bow jeans a whirl after you check out this product review

June 20, 2015June 18, 2015 by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: The Hill-Side Striped Tie

Japanese navy fabric and white stripes make for one sharp tie.

Out of all the Style Picks featured on this site, from Oxford shirts to slim shorts and tailored trousers, not one tie has made this category yet. That changes this week, with a striped cotton-linen number from The Hill-Side. You might recognize the brand’s name from this very blog (or, more likely, from their recent arrival as one of GQ’s Best New Menswear Designers in America). In short, the brand stocks essentials that have a modern-yet-quirky tilt, and they do so using lots of beautiful fabrics and textures (they even have a fabric shop, and its physical retail space, Hickorees, stocks that as well). But onto the tie itself — as the weather gets warmer, attire from head-to-toe should lighten up and help you beat the heat, including your neckwear.

Collect them all: available in a very narrow square-ended version or two progressively wider pointed versions.

The cotton-linen blend, narrow width and diagonal stripes convey a preppy yet modern style — thanks to the Japanese fabric — that would be ideal for wearing to, say, a summer wedding, or to the office. It’s available in a narrow or slightly wider pointed version (either 2 5/8″ or 3 1/4″), along with a square-ended variation that the brand is perhaps most known for. With Father’s Day quickly approaching, don’t forget about this as a (very) last-minute splurge gift for Dad, either, because at $85, that’s exactly what this tie is. But given The Hill-Side’s knack for pumping out quality pieces in stellar fabrics, it’s a tie that should wear well through many seasons to come.

Do you own any product from The Hill-Side? What’s your take on this tie?

(Editor’s note: If you want to knock a discount off some similarly luxurious #menswear, check out the below promo — running through July 31 — with Ernest Alexander!)

$10 Off a purchase of $100 or more; Free Shipping on orders over $200 at Ernest Alexander Enter promo code: STYLEGUIDE10 at checkout. Valid 06-12-2015 through 07-31-2015

June 19, 2015 by Beau H.

The Friday Read: Father’s Day, Street Style and NYC Real Estate

Can you believe we’re three weeks into June already!? Time truly does fly. I’ve been keeping busy as of late with a trip to Charleston, SC for a family wedding (more on how to dress for your next occasion here) and some writing for VOUCH Mag. I’m also going to be penning some pieces for my good friend Pat Evans’ excellent Michigan-based features and lifestyle site Grand Conversations, so be on the lookout for that work as well. In the meantime, if you feel like reading even more, check out some quick hits for your weekend reading perusal.

If by chance you STILL haven’t picked up anything for dear old Dad, Gear Patrol compiled a positively massive Father’s Day gift guide filled with 80 options for all you last-minute gifters out there (this site also did the same, earlier this week).
Four-Pins broke down all the street style (some good, some bad) you could ever want to feast your eyes on at London Collections: Men, the start of fashion ‘month’.
A very rich someone is about to pay the ungodly sum of $250 million for a prime piece of real estate (in NYC terms) in the city.
Long Read of the Week: Not a Long Read in and of itself (but leading to longer reading…get it?), Esquire delivers a list of 21 books fit for every type of dad out there this Father’s Day.

What’s on your reading list this weekend? Let me know via Twitter!

June 17, 2015June 19, 2015 by Beau H.

Style Suggestion: The Summer Wedding

Trying to keep cool and stay stylish. Unconstructed navy blazer by J. Crew. Vintage red floral pocket square by General Knot. White dress shirt by Combat Gent. Chambray trousers by American Apparel. Brown leather loafers by Bass. Watch by Sturhling. Glasses by Warby Parker.

With the passing of Memorial Day weekend and a quick couple weeks into June, summer wedding season is here in earnest. If you haven’t had the pleasure of attending a summer wedding yet, I would bet you probably have one in the near future. Picking up something sharp, stylish and fitting for the occasion on a budget is a tricky balance to strike. I had the chance to put my packing skills to the test and dress well at the same time (or try to do so) as I headed to a family wedding in Charleston, South Carolina this weekend (home of my friends at Brothers and Craft, as it were). The evening was lovely — a wedding and an evening on the water with family is always incredibly special. I myself tried to strike a balance between keeping cool and staying stylish. Ditching the tie and opting for a lightweight blazer and some tailored (but not overly slim) trousers in a super-breathable fabric helped me at least attempt to do that — that’s a tall task when it’s 90-plus degrees out. Some suggestions to help you handle any wedding situation in the months ahead follow below! (Editor’s note: Be sure to check out the bottom of the post for a special discount offer on dressy summer wedding gear from Ernest Alexander for TSG readers!).

The Suit: J. Crew Factory Voyager Suit — $376

A versatile shade of grey with fabric that can stand up to just about anything.

Now, not every wedding will necessarily require or call for a suit (see the above photo as proof). But if you do have to pick up a suit for the occasion, it’s a wise bet to grab something in a versatile color (like the medium grey option seen here) or the dark navy pairing available through the J. Crew Factory site — that way, the suit can be worn year-round. The fact that this fabric is crease-resistant means that you could even wear it while traveling. If only a blazer need be worn at the wedding in question, picking up something in a vibrant color on the cheap (like this Combat Gent Travel Jacket) would be the way to go (pair it with some crisp khaki chinos for style outside the summer, too). And even if things get as laidback as a polo and chinos (for a beach wedding, perhaps), the suit trousers or jacket could act as separates.

The Dress Shirt: Combat Gent Endurance Shirt — $35

A white shirt that performs much like its name would imply.

Take it from someone who test-drove this shirt in temperatures pushing 100 degrees — when it’s hot out, you want something that’ll wick away sweat and still look crisp. Even if the wedding is indoors, a fabric like this will help you out big-time when moving around outside.The collar will stand up amply without a tie if the wedding leans more casual. And similar to the rest of the brand’s offerings, it’s exceptionally affordable and performs well for the price — a very agreeable one, at that. You could also opt for a similarly polished shirt from Mizzen + Main, who’s picking up steam as of late with performance-minded dress shirts (among other offerings).

The Shoes: JC Penney Logan Wingtip — $49.99

These shoes also made an appearance in last year’s budget style series, and for good reason.

For those on an extreme budget (and if you’re having to buy the suit in one go as well), picking up a dirt cheap pair of surprisingly reliable wingtips is one way to stand out from the crowd of black shoes likely to be there while also saving a good amount of money (loafers could also accomplish this in truly hot weather). Wingtips are the type of shoe that can work with a full suit and tie or a blazer and chinos — plus nearly any other outfit you can think of throughout the year. While this pair might not be exceptionally durable, they should more than do the job in a pinch (as would some simple suede Derbys from a brand like H&M). Don’t forget about brands like Florsheim, who makes one heck of a sharp dress chukka if you want to switch up your style even further.

The Accessories: The Tie Bar White Pocket Square and Navy Knit Tie — $35

Two items that can work anywhere, anytime — especially in the summer.

Keeping the focus on buying for versatility and affordability, The Tie Bar is still one of the best bets for your money out there as far as accessories go. Yes, those prices have increased — but when you consider the fact that some retailers sell pocket squares on their own for more than the price of the ever-versatile navy knit and white cotton combo seen here, it doesn’t seem so bad. Both those pieces will stand on their own, especially with the medium-grey suit seen above, as well as with a navy option (don’t forget about a summertime staple, the khaki suit). As far as other accessories go, this depends on how much you’re willing to push the boundaries of style — but you could pair wingtips or loafers with no-show socks and a rolled cuff for a cooler breeze (particularly appropriate with loafers), or opt for a punchier patterned pair.

The Rest: J. Crew Braided Leather Belt — $49.50 + Timex Easy Reader Brown Leather Watch — $38.96

Two more casual items that would absolutely work in the summer months — and beyond.

With the shade of shoes shown above, it’ll be a little trickier to match both your shoe and belt leathers. But because summer weddings overall do tend to be more casual, a braided leather belt fits right in (H&M is among retailers stocking cheaper options, by the way). The belt’s more expensive than the watch, yes, but this timepiece makes up for it with a textured brown leather strap that considerably dresses up the plainer dial while also meshing nicely with the color of the belt and the shoes. It’s the type of leather that would also work with brown leather loafers.

So that closes the books on this summer wedding style suggestion — making use of items you already own, like a trusty navy blazer or some sturdy chinos can help offset the need to buy all-new gear for a summer wedding. And reaching for affordable style staples makes a lot of sense too and can help ease your wallet through the process. Feel free to let me know what you’ll be packing and wearing at any upcoming summer weddings!

And for those of you who do need some stylish garb for the summer, check out the exclusive promo opportunity below!