Tag / men’s grooming

by Beau H.

Style Q+A: Tread for Men Grooming

Editor’s note: To read more pieces in the Style Q&A series, click that link.

All the grooming supplies you need, and then some -- learn more about Tread for Men, and upgrade your grooming game in the process.

All the grooming supplies you need, and then some — learn more about Tread for Men, and upgrade your grooming game in the process.

Up until a few years ago, I didn’t necessarily pay attention to my grooming routine all that much. I’d used skin care products like Proactiv as a teenager, but taking care of my face and skin wasn’t necessarily top of mind as I went through college — perhaps you’ve found yourself in the same boat. When it comes to men’s grooming, the adage might be that you don’t know what you’ve been missing until you find it. That is, in testing out grooming products along the way, you learn what works, what doesn’t and what can significantly upgrade your skincare routine. Such has been the case with yours truly and Tread for Men. I first learned about the brand earlier this summer — you might recognize them from a recent reader giveaway — and after testing out the brand’s wares for a few months, they’re certainly a brand worth knowing. Men’s grooming is an area that’s easy to overlook — after all, it’s easier to get ready and dash off without a few extra steps in the morning or evening, right?

Well, if you want to properly care for your skin and look (and feel!) better in the process, those steps are worth taking =– trust me. The team at Tread for Men epitomizes this — and they live it, too. From the brand’s Basics Kit — which includes an excellent facial wash, a moisturizer, organic soap and sunscreen — to Tread’s handy beard oils, they’ve got a full grooming routine covered — and it requires but a small investment of your time and money. It plays into the idea that upgrading the small details — like your wallet or the fit of your T-shirt — makes a big difference. And who better to talk to than the guys behind Tread? Truly, the brand is doing things the right way — co-founders Eric Verdeyen and Bob Huguelet were great to catch up with, and I’ll let them take it away for now. Enjoy!

The Style Guide: Tell me about the start of Tread and the “A-ha” moment that led to the formation of the brand?

Eric Verdeyen: We had been kicking around business ideas in 2015, but we didn’t quite know what we wanted to dive into. Around the same time our wives (independently) started telling us to take care of our skin — pointing at the new wrinkles, dry skin, dark circles, etc.

Bob Huguelet: My wife was always ambushing me with her products, the bathroom was a warzone (haha). Eric and I got to talking about it — neither of us knew much about skin care or thought it would make much of a difference. But we saw that all the women we know are into it, and we saw the upward trend of grooming among guys as well. We started to do some research, and turns out taking care of your face and skin is not only important to your look but incredibly beneficial to the long-term health of your skin.

EV: Basically, life takes a toll on the skin — stress, weather, bacteria, showering, and especially the sun. You can see it easily in older folks or guys who work outside and don’t pay attention to the effects of the elements. The more we looked into it, the more the science behind it made sense. You need to keep your skin clean and moisturized so it can function well. But we didn’t want to use our wives’ products, and other brands were trying to sell us on too many options or weren’t of great quality, manufactured overseas or wherever. So we saw an opportunity to create a high-quality, reasonably priced, and environmentally friendly product line that is easy to understand and use for guys like us.

TSG: Guys have grown a lot more interested in all things style and lifestyle as of late — how does Tread play into that as a brand?

BH: We take the approach that taking care of your face isn’t just about looking groomed and healthy, but more importantly about long-term, whole body health. Guys are starting to understand that. The overall package — grooming, style, heath, exercise — all play parts in making a good impression, whether it’s at work, going out with friends, or just for your significant other. It’s catching on. We play into the trend by developing quality products and designing them for men. The goal is to help guys get comfortable with a new routine that we know will help them in the long run.

EV: We see it as  an extension of the new grooming wave — We all know that guys are thinking about their faces more with great brands like Dollar Shave Club and Harry’s, and expect manly products that look and feel great. We are taking it to the next level beyond shaving. You’re doing yourself a disservice if you’ve got your clothing style locked in but your face is dried out, discolored, and blemished.

A kit packed with everything you need in terms of men's grooming -- and then some. Find out more about Tread for Men in the latest Style Q+A.

A kit packed with everything you need in terms of men’s grooming — and then some. Find out more about Tread for Men in the latest Style Q+A.

TSG: What are some grooming areas you see guys tend to skip or make “mistakes” in, or areas in which guys should take better care of themselves?

EV:  Believe it or not, a lot of guys don’t wash their face at all.  Or they just use bar soap in the shower.

Guys don’t usually think about how your face accumulates dirt and bacteria throughout the day, and while showering helps, every time you rinse, you’re also washing away the natural oils.

A quality cleanser will help with the daily wash while keeping the skin hydrated like natural oils do. And if you’ve ever experienced razor bumps, acne, blemishes – those can often be solved by proper cleansing (and changing razors and towels) Many of the big brands for men that you find in retailers have a significant amount of salts and inorganic chemicals that dry out the skin. You may be clean, but you’re drying out skin and making yourself more susceptible to signs of aging.

BH: Also, a huge mistake is not wearing an SPF every day. The sun is the #1 cause for damaged skin and long-term signs of aging. And you’re getting hit as soon as you walk out the door. Even if you are in the office all day or, drive to work, your body is exposed to UV rays. Most cases of skin cancer actually start on the left arm, neck, and face — the side that gets hit while driving. So, yeah — wear sunscreen every day!

TSG: Are there any beginner tips you have for the guy just getting into a grooming routine?

EV: Don’t worry about spending a ton of money to get into a full routine right away. Start small, and work your way up. Consistently using a cleanser or moisturizer is the perfect way to get a feel for what you like and get in the habit of paying attention to your face. And you’ll feel and see a clear difference before and after.

BH: We designed a great starter set called “The Basics” which is exactly that — the essentials including cleanser and moisturizer, as well as our organic bar soap and sunscreen. You can always add other products to your routine, or swap in different brands to see what you like best. Once you find a product you like, stick with it!

If you're still on the hunt for beard care supplies, rest assured that Tread for Men stocks beard oil, too. Photo courtesy of the brand.

If you’re still on the hunt for beard care supplies, rest assured that Tread for Men stocks beard oil, too. Photo courtesy of the brand.

TSG: On a style-related note — what’s one essential style item every guy should have in his closet, and what’s one grooming item every guy should have in his medicine cabinet?

BH: A blazer for sure, especially in Chicago in the late summer and fall. Layering up will give you the optional extra protection all day. My go-to is a blue and gray Bonobos wool blazer. Great to dress up jeans or chinos and never gets wrinkled, so you can wear it all day.

EV: A shoe horn (haha) but seriously, a few nice pairs of quality shoes when going to work or going out can make or break a look. Too often I see guys smashing their feet into the back of their shoes, and it can really damage the integrity and make great shoes look old and worn.

And  I always make sure I have moisturizer on hand. Properly hydrating the skin is always going to help in the short and long run. It will help with dry, flaky skin and damage from the sun and, it will keep the firmness in the skin and fight against wrinkles.

BH: I actually keep my eye cream on my desk, it reminds me to use it everyday. But it too is a great product that contributes to your look and style. Unless your style is “High Plains Drifter” a la Clint Eastwood, you’re going to want to minimize the wrinkles and dark circles under your eyes.

TSG: Is there anything else you’d like to add?

EV: We understand that skincare can be confusing and intimidating for guy — it was the same for us. There is a lot of marketing and BS in the skincare game, and it’s hard to know where to begin. We’ve put a lot of work dispelling the myths and educating men on the “what, why, and when” for each of our products.

BH: For sure — all of our products and kits come with easy-to-use instructions, so if you don’t know where to start, we’ll set you up for success with a beginning package. Whether you go with Tread or another line, we definitely recommend putting something on your face sooner rather than later!

To get daily grooming inspiration and tips, keep up with the brand on Facebook or Instagram — and shop the brand’s products just as soon as you can.

Buck Mason - Timeless Design. Made in America.

by Beau H.

Reader Giveaway Opportunity: Tread for Men Grooming

Editor’s note: To keep up on all things Style Guide-related, check out the site on Facebook.

One kit packed with a ton of functional grooming products. Photo courtesy of Tread for Men.

One kit packed with functional grooming products. Photo courtesy of Tread for Men.

We’re still in the heyday of summer, and that means that, well, it’s hot. That heat requires that you dress for warm weather, and it also requires you keep skin care top of mind — that’s particularly true when it comes to men’s grooming essentials. An effective grooming routine can be a solid way to start and end your day, especially if you’ve got reliable premium products to use. That’s why it’s been such a treat to check out Tread for Men across these past few weeks.  The Chicago-based grooming start-up reached out to yours truly at The Style Guide earlier this summer, and I’ve had the pleasure of testing out the brand’s Energizing Facial Cleanser, Hydration Toner and Firming Moisturizer. It’s all part of the brand’s Daily Skin Care Kit — also known as “The Daily” — which you can conveniently opt to have delivered every month. It’s a bonus that these highly functional products are presented in high-quality, no-frills bottles and containers, — they’d make a wise addition to any routine you already have in place, because it’s product that really works. The Facial Cleanser really does have a renewing, strengthening feel, and the Hydration Toner has noticeably toned my skin when used in conjunction with the cleanser. That goes double for the moisturizer, which works quite well to rejuvenate and rebuild skin.

Lest this sound like a lot of steps to you, rest assured that it takes just about as long as it would to pick out a well-composed outfit (and if you follow this site’s #OOTD series, hopefully that’s a snap!). Using these products consistently has made a noticeable difference in how my skin looks and feels, even after just a few weeks — believe me, the results are there. It’s become a welcome part of my routine, and I’d definitely urge you to check these guys out. But what does this really all mean for you, Style Guide reader? It means something very good, indeed.
Buck Mason - Timeless Design. Made in America.
It just so happens that one lucky winner is getting their own Daily Skin Care Kit very soon. All you need to do is enter the giveaway below, stick around for the winner, and we’ll make it happen. Best of luck, and stay for a minute to check out other Style Guide content, including the dopp kits you need to buy now and a stylish dive watch to go with the rest of your outfit.

To enter to win the Tread for Men giveaway detailed above, click this link — good luck!

Editor’s note: This contest ends at 12 a.m., Thursday, August 4th.

by Beau H.

Online Shopping Picks: Top Men’s Summer Grooming Essentials

Editor’s note: Click this link for a full set of online #menswear shopping suggestions.

If you’re lucky, by this point in the season, you’ve got lots of your summer style essentials taken care of. There are some other style details that should be left out though, and it goes without saying that summer grooming essentials should also be on your shopping list. After all, what’s the benefit of rocking a stylish pair of shorts or some crisp white sneakers if you don’t have the proper grooming products to complement ’em? It’s all about the little steps that really create a holistic lifestyle, and that goes particularly for how you’re taking care of your skin in the sun. It’s something I can certainly get better at, and in that vein, you can expect more grooming-centric content in the coming weeks here (we’re in this together, folks). And today, we’re talking sun care, skin care and a bit of everything else. To get a jump on on the brands pictured below, head here to learn more about Baxter of California — and for the rest of the grooming essentials you need, carry on.

The Sun Protection: Manda Organic Sun Paste — $28.98

A refreshing look and feel, different from your average sunscreen.

A refreshing look and feel, different from your average sunscreen.

While great grooming is essential any time of year (particularly in the winter), there’s a defining attribute that makes summer skincare so essential, and it’s right up there at high noon. Grabbing a bottle of basic sunscreen is definitely one way to go (and other grooming brands also stock sun protection products), it can be nice to grab something that’s out of the ordinary in both packaging and its approach. This organic sun paste is more expensive, but again, it’s a nice, worthwhile change of pace from the ordinary.
Frank & Oak

The Daily Routine: Tread For Men Facial Cleanser — $25

A premium facial cleanser that packs a serious punch.

A premium facial cleanser that packs a serious punch.

Before you get ahead of yourself and skip onto other parts of your grooming routine, make sure your face is taken care of first. This no-frills facial cleanser incorporates Vitamins A and E, oats, olive and jojoba oils (among other ingredients) to hydrate, repair and firm your skin. It also flushes dirt and removes dead skin cells in the process — having tried it out recently courtesy of the brand, I’ve been very pleased with the results so far. It really has left my skin feeling refreshed and energized, and that’s all too rare before I’ve had my first morning coffee. Plus, the label is well-designed, the directions are easy to read and the glass bottle the product comes in feels a bit more premium than other skincare products.
The Skin Protection: Ursa Major Perfect Zen Body Lotion — $26

Never used a body lotion before? Try this one on for size.

Never used a body lotion before? Try this one on for size.

If you do happen to get too much sun, getting that recovery process going is critical (and ASAP, too!). Ursa Major makes very effective, if pricey, grooming gear that’s a bit more unique — it seems not many brands are doing body lotion for guys (and if you know of any great recommendations, jump in over on Twitter). Either way, this body lotion is going to soothe and soften your skin, and it works throughout summer and into the drier climes of fall and winter.

The Must-Have: Baxter of California Deodorant — $19

Another upgrade from a typical deodorant.

Another upgrade from a typical deodorant.

It goes without saying that deodorant is quite necessary in the summer, yes? One that’s made with a more premium approach than a standard drugstore pick-up can be a welcome style upgrade that pays dividends (better performance and better scent among them). The citrus scent and the solid gel won’t stain or discolor your clothes, so that’s another positive. And if you show off that time in the gym  in a tank top, it always helps to have deodorant on (another no-brainer, right?).
Florsheim
The Hair Care: Byrd Matte Pomade — $22

An easy way to look good -- a bit of matte pomade and some light styling can go a long way.

An easy way to look good — a bit of matte pomade and some light styling can go a long way.

In addition to finding the right ‘do for your hair — maybe a bit more of a classic hairstyle  or one that’s closer-cropped — it can be a bit of a struggle to figure out what exactly to do with it. Well, that’s where a touch of pomade works out nicely. Keep it matte, so you avoid the shiny, spikey haircuts so common in the early 00s (yes, I modeled my hair after boy bands, too).  In this case, less product is better — and if your hair is already cut shorter to begin with, that’s all the better. Like the other grooming products on this list, it’s an investment in terms of price — but worth it if you use it the right way.

The Finishing Touch: Everyman Jack Signature Face Lotion — $6

A small container that holds an essential key to grooming success.

A small container that holds an essential key to grooming success.

The adage that seems to hold true in most matters of #menswear holds equally true in matters of men’s grooming — namely, a little goes a long way. Just a bit of face lotion (only $6 worth!) can help soothe dry skin and razor burn at the same time. Plus, this face lotion offers a much-needed chance to keep your face looking hydrated and healthy even outside of summer — consider it the last step in your daily grooming routine.

Stocking up on the right grooming products for summer — or any other season — revolves around meeting your daily needs head-on, whether you spend a ton of time in the sun or spend a ton of time indoors, keeping your skin hydrated and healthy is quite important. And if you find yourself unsure of where to start in terms of products, reaching for upgraded basics — like a better deodorant or pomade — is often the way to go. That holds true for figuring out the rest of the menswear world as well, but it can be a big help if you only need a few key grooming products to get started. Have any thoughts on brands that should’ve made the cut, or any grooming must-haves for summer? Join the conversation at The Style Guide’s Facebook page, or on Twitter.

Thanks, as always, for reading

-Beau
Buck Mason - Timeless Design. Made in America.

by Beau H.

Style Suggestion: How To Dress for A First Date

Editor’s note: Head this way for more menswear style suggestions.

So, you’ve done it — secured a date! Very well-done, indeed. But what to wear? More importantly, what to wear for a spring or summer-specific situation, like a patio date? Or for that matter, a casual indoor date? You certainly want to dress to impress, but unless you’re heading somewhere exceptionally fancy, it’s probably best to stay away from a full-on suit (that’s step number one). Step number two — read up on a versatile style suggestion geared toward both of those situations– but know that the same building blocks (a stylish chambray shirt, slim jeans and crisp chukkas) can be customized to any season, and with some tweaks (adding a blazer or a sweater, for example), you can create at least two different looks based on the weather. That’s what the below style suggestion aims to get done. It goes without saying that you should look a bit more cleaned up than when out on a bar crawl with friends, and you should certainly class it up from casual weekend style — so, if you want an outfit that checks those boxes, read on! If you have questions in the meantime on how to dress for the occasion, head here or here for style in action. Good luck out there, and let me know

The Jacket: Bridge & Burn Hayden Gray Linen Jacket — $188

A straightforward-yet-stylish jacket with subtle detailing, including that printed liner.

A straightforward-yet-stylish jacket with subtle detailing, including that printed liner.

This piece of outerwear has popped up on the blog from time to time (including in this site’s guide to the best spring jackets), as it’s premium and stylish in a subtle way. It’s a classic silhouette with an updated fit and an easily wearable color, and it’s made with some eye-catching details, including the printed jacket liner. It’s not as dressy as a classic blazer, but functions as a solid outer layer should you need it if the night gets breezy. Other than that, it looks just right over a slim chambray shirt with or without a tie on this first date or elsewhere — it’s playing it (somewhat) safe while exuding great style.

The Shirt: Taylor Stitch The Hyde Chambray Shirt — $99.98

A classic chambray shirt never fails, especially one cut a bit dressier.

A classic chambray shirt never fails, especially one with a bit dressier styling.

It seems that in nearly every style situation, a classic chambray shirt just …. works. When it’s the Taylor Stitch Hyde Chambray Shirt, it’s even better. It’s the more modern answer to a blue Oxford, as it incorporates great visual interest thanks to the textured fabric. Plus, it’s a four-season style essential — we’re talking wearing with a shawl-collar cardigan in the winter, and on its own in the warm weather for a first date. The semi-spread collar leans dressier than a button-down collar, but it can still be rocked without a tie (roll up the sleeves when your jacket comes off to heighten that effect). And if you do decide to go dressier? It would look just right with a grey knit tie.

The Denim: Mott and Bow Slim Mercer Light Denim — $108

A lighter shade that's not quite bright white -- perfect for spring and summer.

A lighter shade that’s not quite bright white — perfect for spring and summer.

While classic dark blue denim would certainly work here, there’s something appropriate to warm weather about lightening up the color of your denim. In particular, a light shade of khaki is a unique style swerve that’s still easily wearable. Some can be hesitant about wearing white denim (yours truly included), so khaki is an easier way to switch up your wardrobe for warm weather. The light khaki color makes the chambray shirt and gray jacket stand out a bit more, too. And Mott & Bow’s Slim fit is going to be pretty agreeable to most body types (even if you’re not used to a slimmer-fitting pair of denim).

The Boots: Astorflex Greenflex Dark Khaki Chukka Boots — $145

Chukka boots that hit the right note between dressy and casual.

Chukka boots that hit the right note between dressy and casual.

A reliable, essential pair of suede chukkas is another safe and stylish bet to make, particularly for a first date. In this instance, these suede chukka boots are understated and casual, yet crisp enough to fit right in with that light khaki denim and blue chambray shirt. The color contrasts nicely with the khaki denim, and again, that essential pairing of chukka boots and a chambray shirt is one that works across all seasons. If the date leans a bit dressier, you could always swap in a pair of leather wingtips. Either way, these boots are sustainably made and sourced, so they’d be a worthy footwear choice.

The Socks: American Trench Triangles and Chevrons Socks — $19.50

Not too plain, not too dressy -- just right.

Not too plain, not too dressy — just right.

As has been the theme of this outfit, sticking with subtle, stylish and slightly refined finishing touches is the way to go. Luckily, American Trench knows that’s just what guys need nowadays. The brand’s socks, though pricey, are a Style Guide favorite for their understated style, nice colors and good selection. The print on this pair plays nicely off the color of the shirt and the denim while not getting too far out there. Although one pair is pretty pricey, it’s an investment that’s worth it — they show a touch of personal style without detracting from the rest of the outfit.

The Belt: Arcade Belt Co. The Hudson Belt — $31.98

Leather detailing that contrasts nicely with the navy color.

Leather detailing that contrasts nicely with the navy color.

Everyone should (ideally) have a classic leather belt in their rotation. Here though, the easy pick is a belt that injects a bit of color into the middle of your outfit while also incorporating some spring and summer texture. If, as we always talk about, style is in the details, then this belt certainly fits that principle. It goes with the overall color scheme of the ensemble, and plays nicely off the blue chambray shirt. It’ll allow you to tuck your shirt in without looking like you left behind a part of your outfit, as well. That’s pretty crucial, yeah?

The Watch: Timex 38mm Watch — $138

Yet another timepiece that features tough Red Wing leather in the strap.

Yet another timepiece that features tough Red Wing leather in the strap.

If you are as of yet unacquainted with the rugged, straightforward and affordably priced stylings of some of the timepieces within the Timex collection, I’d update yourself accordingly now. This revamp really picked up with the introduction of the Timex Waterbury line, continued with the Timex x Red Wing collaboration unveiling earlier this year, and rolls right on through with this simple-yet-rugged timepiece sold via Todd Snyder.  This understated 38mm watch also features Red Wing shoe leather in the strap, which means it’s ultra-sturdy, ultra-stylish and definitely fit for a first date.

The Finishing Touch: Byrd Matte Hair Pomade — $22

An easy way to look good -- a bit of matte pomade and some light styling can go a long way.

An easy way to look good — a bit of matte pomade and some light styling can go a long way.

Some of us eschew hair product altogether, and there’s nothing wrong with that. But, it can be nice to spruce up your mane (particularly if it’s humid out) with a little matte finish pomade — that means you won’t get an overly shiny looking hairdo.  And it goes without saying that you shouldn’t overdo it — just enough to achieve a nice, put-together look. We’ll cover off on more summer grooming essentials next week, but make sure you take care of the basics (y’know, brushing your teeth, wearing deodorant, etc.) beforehand, too.

Preparing for (and then, well, going on) a first date can be a bit nervewracking — it’s about making a first impression, but it’s also about compatibility and finding the right fit. I’ll leave the restaurant/bar/activity choice to you, but the above ensemble should work with some mild tweaks across the spring and summer. The adage that you only get one shot to make a first impression is certainly true, particularly when it comes to style on a first date — clothing isn’t everything, to be sure, but if you start things off looking crisp and polished, that can only signal good things ahead (one would hope!). Plus, first dates should be fun, and dressing in some of your favorite style essentials is a great way to approach it with that mind set. Questions? Comments? Concerns? Head over to The Style Guide Facebook page to keep the discussion going!

Don’t forget to pick up the check,

-Beau

Buck Mason - Timeless Design. Made in America.

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: Masters 2016 Edition

jonnEditor’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.  

Greetings, Style Guide readers! Today, we’re mixing things up a bit on The Style Guide and deviating from our usual Friday Read entry. What’s that, you say? Fear not. One of the things I’ve learned over the years as I’ve developed an interest in #menswear is that certain things just go hand-in-hand. That is to say, as you learn about style staples like dark denim or a stylish blazer, you develop a more nuanced taste in other areas — be it home design, quality literature, gourmet cuisine– you name it, and it’s likely that it plays well with men’s style.

That’s doubly important in the realm of the finer things in life — given that it’s Friday, we’re talking tasty cocktails. And not just any Friday. It’s an important day on the calendar for a wide swath of sports fans out there — the kick-off of Masters weekend. I’m not a huge golf nut by any means, but I’ve hit the links (badly) from time to time, and I always enjoyed watching PGA tournaments like the sadly defunct Buick Open in my home state of Michigan. So if you find yourself much more intrigued by golf (and intrigued even moreso by a fine cocktail), you’ll find the recipe of interest below. If you’re wary, know that it comes courtesy of a recommendation from the folks at West Coast lifestyle purveyors Johnnie-O — and what better way to enjoy the Masters than by grabbing a nice blazer and sipping on a delicious beverage, particularly a mojito? Not many. While it’s not for everyone, the Player’s Blazer is just the ticket if you want to add a shot of color to an Oxford and chinos, too. Read on for the recipe below, and let’s bond over crafty cocktails (and beer) via Twitter.

One blazer plus one beverage = a solid and stylish kick-off to Masters weekend.

One blazer plus one beverage = a solid and stylish kick-off to Masters weekend.

   The Masters Mojito Recipe:

Got all that down? Done and done. In the meantime, head here to catch up on another outfit tailored for the weekend — how to dress for a spring bar crawl. And I’d advise you to maybe (maybe?) catch up with some of my writing work at GearMoose — if you need a minimal watch, I put together a full watch guide for that site. That’s all for now in this neck of the woods; we’ll be back tomorrow with a great Style Pick from Jack Erwin, and we’ll have a look at the best suede chukkas to buy for spring coming up on Monday. Enjoy!

-Beau

by Beau H.

Online Shopping Picks: Best Men’s Grooming Products for Winter

Editor’s note: For more menswear-minded online shopping picks, including Oxford shirts and weekender bags, head here.

We’ve talked a bit about grooming lately here on The Style Guide,  namely in the form of this Doc Elliott giveaway earlier in January. But that giveaway is just the tip of the iceberg. Here in NYC, and I’d guess elsewhere for a lot of us #menswear fans, it’s pretty cold. And windy. And snowy, or rainy. All of that wreaks havoc on your skin, and if you don’t have a solid grooming routine in place, you could end up looking like this. There are a couple parts to assembling a solid grooming routine though, from caring for your face and beard (or stubble, or heck, no beard) to caring for your hands — so the below picks cover each of those bases (hopefully pretty well, too!). It’s not the full list of every brand you could look into certainly, but it’s a heck of a place to start — if I do say so myself. And if you haven’t given much thought to grooming before, it’s another small upgrade that can work in tandem with other style upgrades, especially if it was one of your style resolutions for 2016. So read on and stock up — you’ll beat winter in no time.

The Essential Moisturizer: Baxter of California Oil-Free Moisturizer, $24.00

A small tube that packs a big punch.

A small tube that packs a big punch.

One of the first steps to taking on winter is making sure your face is properly taken care of — and that starts with a hard-working, effective moisturizer from a brand that knows what it’s doing. The Baxter of California Oil-Free Moisturizer fits the bill perfectly. It’s a bit pricey for a small tube of lotion, but it’ll make a big difference — I’d say (although I’m no expert), using this as your last morning grooming step and your last nightly grooming step can definitely fight the effects of winter.

The Ultimate Beard-Care Kit: Doc Elliott Grooming Beard Care Combo Kit, $30

Two essential items in one package.

Two essential items in one package.

While $30 might at first look a bit steep for such a small package, rest assured that Doc Elliott Grooming absolutely knows what it’s doing in terms of beard care. This Beard Care Combo brings you two-in-one — the brand’s Beard Serum should work quite well as far as conditioning and smoothing that beard of yours, while the Beard Balm offers up even more protection. Two refined scent options are available, along with an unscented pick. There’s no wrong choice, my bearded brethren. And if you find yourself needing shaving essentials, we’ll cover that further down the line here.

The Hand Cream: Kiehl’s Ultimate Strength Hand Salve, $15

From a brand known for its quality and longevity.

From a brand known for its quality and longevity.

Another oft-overlooked part of grooming — dry hands. We’re all prone to ’em, particularly in winter and even if you’ve got yourself some nice leather gloves. Kiehl’s Ultimate Strength Hand Salve uses a blend of botanical oils and natural wax (derived from olive oil, no less), should definitely prove a hydrating combination. Trust me, your co-workers — and yes, your partner — will thank you. The price is a bit steep for a small container, but the 22oz. size isn’t a bad value.

The Shaving Cream: Baxter of California Super-Close Shave Formula, $20

This shaving cream would be a wise pickup from a brand that does things like this quite well.

This shaving cream would be a wise pickup from a brand that does things like this quite well.

We turn again to a reputable brand known for its everyday essentials, particularly its well-known Super-Close Shave Formula. It’s hydrating and crafted with coconut oils for a smooth shave — having checked out some myself, it’s the real deal. It leaves no mess (it’s a thicker, fluffier blend than typical shaving cream), it’s a solid value and it’s got a hint of refreshment built in.

The Finishing Touch: Brooklyn Grooming Anchor Aftershave Tonic, $16

Handmade using organic ingredients, with a touch of Brooklyn edge to boot.

Handmade using organic ingredients, with a touch of Brooklyn edge to boot.

For when you’re all set shaving (and even if you just like to freshen up your beard after a quick trim), reach for a crisp aftershave made in part with aloe vera gel.  The brand says its scent blends exotic woods and balsam resins among others, and if you’re into it, it’s imbued with some unique spiritual elements (yes, indeed) — like immune-stimulating “holy wood.” At the end of the day, you be the judge of whether that works — but it should handle the basics in a refreshing way regardless.

While the above list might be a bit longer than the stock you have in your medicine cabinet right now, the best advice would be to pick and choose what works for you — at the very least, some solid basics, like a nice moisturizer and hand cream, can definitely sort out your grooming situation to start. And when used as part of a solid daily routine, they can impart some nice structure, style and of course, refreshment to your day. In the long run, they’ll all help you fight the aftereffects of winter — and come spring, the same routine will continue to take you far.

What’s your winter grooming routine like? Do you own any of these products or will you be making any new purchases.

by Beau H.

Reader Giveaway Opportunity: Doc Elliott Grooming

Read on for details on how to win your own set of winter beard-care essentials from Doc Elliott Grooming. Photo courtesy of the brand.

Read on for details on how to win your own set of winter beard-care essentials from Doc Elliott Grooming. Photo courtesy of the brand.

Editor’s note: Thank you to all who participated! And congrats to the winner, Christopher C. Thanks, as always, for reading.

Now that winter’s fully upon us (if it happens to be warm where you are, lucky you!), hopefully you’ve got all the great winter gear you need — from a  warm topcoat to a stylish peacoat and tough winter boots. But with the ever-advancing chill comes the need to turn to another area of the men’s lifestyle department here at The Style Guide — grooming. If you’re among the bearded set out there, it’s crucial to take care of your beard in the winter — it’s one of those little style details that can go further than you think. After all, no one wants to look like a cast member in The Revenant. And it’s with that thought in mind (seriously, groom your beard!) that today’s reader giveaway opportunity comes up. Doc Elliott Grooming, based out of Austin, Texas, certainly has you covered in that regard.

I first stumbled across the brand thanks to a timely 2014 Christmas gift from Santa, and I’ve been a fan of the brand’s Pure Pomade ever since. Their focus is equal parts rugged, refined and vintage-inspired (hence the tagline, “Honor Your MANcestors”), and they like to focus on heritage, authenticity and quality ingredients — that goes for their products across the board.

Its beard care game is equally on-point, and that’s what we’re giving you the chance to enter to win today, my friends. One lucky winner will get the Beard Care combo pack (that’s the brand’s Beard Balm and Serum), plus the brand’s Edge Wax and a fun graphic tee. That entire combo will have your grooming game upgraded in no time, trust me.

To win — simply follow the instructions in this link. (Editor’s note: Contest runs until 12 a.m., January 21, 2016).

Stay warm out there and stay stylish!

-Beau

Shop the latest in Men's styles Under $50 + get FREE Shipping on orders over $100 at Frank & Oak!

by Beau H.

Reader Giveaway Opportunity: Kent & Bond Grooming

Your chance to win a well-made grooming product from an upstart brand. Photo courtesy of Kent & Bond.

Your chance to win a well-made grooming product from an upstart brand. Photo courtesy of Kent & Bond.

Editor’s note: Read on (or at least skim?) to the bottom of this article for a special reader giveaway opportunity!

It seems lots of companies in every facet of the menswear landscape are now paying more attention to how they make their wares — that goes for the consumers buying them, too. Whether it’s Everlane’s model of radical transparency or brands like Noble Denim supporting American-made manufacturing, the trend (if you want to call it that), is everywhere. It hasn’t been all that loud on the men’s grooming front though — particularly when you combine the qualities that seem to separate most grooming brands: domestic manufacturing and organic ingredients. Kent & Bond is changing that, though.

I had the chance to write about the brand for VOUCH Mag and I also got the opportunity to check out its signature Body Brick soap across these past few weeks. Launched last year and the proud owner of a new E-commerce website, its product is made in the U.S.A using Certified Organic ingredients. Those touches give the product a premium feel for a low price — $14 for a fairly substantial mini-brick of soap, among other nicely priced wares (read on for more on those).

Kent & Bond's Charcoal Pine Body Brick, complete with the brand's mission.

Kent & Bond’s Charcoal Pine Body Brick, complete with the brand’s mission.

I was admittedly skeptical at first about the product — it’s just a bar of soap, right? Is there a catch? Honestly — no, no catch at all. I sampled the Charcoal Pine Body Brick (as charcoal-based products seem to be everywhere in the men’s grooming world these days), and I haven’t been disappointed. The bar combines a pleasant smell with a crisp, clean feeling — and that’s also reflected in some of the other Body Brick samples I was sent (the brand stocks five Body Brick scents in total). The bars are also rich in vitamins, aged for three months and produced in small batches — tough to find that in your average body wash. It’s also worth nothing that the brand produces responsibly made body gels, too.

The full run of the brand's popular Body Brick soaps. Photo courtesy of Kent & Bond.

The full run of the brand’s popular Body Brick soaps. Photo courtesy of Kent & Bond.

One would imagine that its deodorants and products like the Body Salve are equally well-made — don’t forget about its Horween leather dopp kit, either. The lineup also brings an edge of masculinity — something that could draw in guys skeptical about testing out new grooming products (*raises hand*). If you find yourself on the fence about buying a product though — don’t be! And luckily, that’s what we’re taking care of for you here today. I’m partnering with the brand to give away 1 Body Brick sample of your choice to five lucky winners. Rest assured — even a sample size is quite large. Simply do the following:

  • Head on over to my Instagram account, [make sure you’re following myself and Kent & Bond, of course!].
  • Then, ‘Like’ either Sunday or Monday’s special K&B-themed IG post and comment as to what product or scent you’d like the best! You’ll be able to tell which is which based on the post, trust me.

The winners will be chosen randomly and notified late Tuesday via Instagram. Stay tuned for more! And head over to the brand’s Facebook or Twitter accounts for more from their world.

Greats

by Beau H.

Style abroad: Packing for a cruise on the open seas

Hopping on a plane for a 10-day jaunt (read: cruise) to Italy and Greece later this week. Watch by Daniel Wellington. 'This Bag Is Not Yours' luggage tag by Owen & Fred. Weekender by Navali.

Hopping on a plane for a 10-day jaunt (read: cruise) to Italy and Greece later this week. Watch by Daniel Wellington. ‘This Bag Is Not Yours’ luggage tag by Owen & Fred. Weekender by Navali.

There are certain types of trips it seems you only get to take once in a lifetime, honestly. This coming weekend, I’ve got the great opportunity to embark on one such trip, as luck would have it. The Hayhoe family (Mom, Dad, sister, brother and sister-in-law) is heading overseas for a cruise through the Mediterranean — starting in the glorious city of Rome and swinging through Greece (Santorini, Mykonos, Athens and Katakolon, to be specific). It’s sure to be scenic and extraordinary, despite the economic tensions gripping Greece. But I face a decidedly more trivial challenge — what the heck am I going to wear? And how am I going to get it all there?

While I’m absolutely a Lean Wardrobe advocate, a slightly longer trip and variety of situations has me raiding my (somewhat extensive) closet to come up with outfit solutions. Formal cruise dinners, casual excursions, time spent by the pool and on the water and of course, some extensive travel. Yes, this trip has it all. So I’m hoping what I throw in my Navali Stowaway Weekender (a companion on other trips) sticks. To carry the rest of my gear, I’ll be toting along a durable

On the left: Olive Bonobos Washed Chinos, Sky Blue Combat Gent chinos, grey Billy Reid selvedge denim, white Mott & Bow denim (just part of the lineup). On the right, top to bottom: Pistol Lake henley, J. Crew Factory printed shirt, Steven Alan pocket tee, H&M V-neck, American Apparel & Everlane pocket tees.

On the left, from the bottom: Olive Bonobos Washed Chinos, Sky Blue Combat Gent chinos, grey Billy Reid selvedge denim, white Mott & Bow denim. On the right, top to bottom: Pistol Lake henley, J. Crew Factory printed shirt, Steven Alan pocket tee, H&M V-neck, American Apparel & Everlane pocket tees.

For the everyday wear, I’m bringing along a selection of T-shirts both more plain (like my heather burgundy Steven Alan pocket tee, an American Apparel tee and a new Ace Rivington crewneck, not pictured) and ones with a bit more visual cues (like my Pistol Lake henley and a J. Crew sailboat tee — unfortunately sold out). For time spent by the pool and heading ashore, any option should work within reason. And when I travel, I’ll be throwing on my favorite Everlane pocket tee under my older (circa 2013) J. Crew blazer for easygoing travel style. I’m packing a vintage ballcap for a bit of extra protection from the sun, too — courtesy of the excellent folks at Goorin Bros.

From left to right: Pistol Lake sweatshorts, Athletic Propulsion Labs basketball shorts, Frank & Oak linen shorts and Orlebar Brown swim trunks.

From left to right: Pistol Lake sweatshorts, Athletic Propulsion Labs basketball shorts, Frank & Oak linen shorts and Orlebar Brown swim trunks.

Those tees should be a  nice complement to the selection of casual shorts you see above– my Pistol Lake sweatshorts, pictured at left, are proving to be a personal favorite, comfortable yet functional and relatively tailored for a pair of sweatshorts. I’m also tossing some technically advanced Athletic Propulsion Labs basketball shorts in my bag for work-outs and hiking through the mountains of Greece. My Frank and Oak linen blend shorts should be ever-reliable in the heat, too (read more about them and the brand here), and I’m also packing my Banana Republic khaki shorts (similar to these). On the swimwear front, I’m looking forward to taking my Orlebar Brown Setter trunks out for a dip (as featured here – haven’t been working out as much as Bond though).

Pictured on the left: A rundown of versatile shirting for the trip, including a Bonobos Oxford, GAP chambray, short-sleeve Saturdays NYC buttondown and a vintage thrift store shirt perfect for sipping some brews.

Pictured on the left: A rundown of versatile shirting for the trip, including a Bonobos Oxford, GAP chambray, short-sleeve Saturdays NYC buttondown and a vintage thrift store shirt perfect for sipping some brews.

Which brings me to my steadfast decision to bring perhaps more pairs of pants to a Mediterranean cruise than you might expect — what can I say? I prefer pants. For the flight there, I’ll undoubtedly be wearing my new pair of Mott & Bow white denim — they’re exceedingly comfortable thanks to a hint of stretch and will hopefully allow me to blend in stylishly once I land in Italy (I’ll also be bringing along some olive Washed Chinos from Bonobos for comfortable travel). And because one can never bring enough jeans on a trip, my grey selvedge Billy Reid denim should do the job nicely for more dressed-down dinners and travel days, while some sky blue Combat Gent chinos in a versatile slim-straight cut should do the trick for both casual and more crisp wear. For pairing with those jeans, I’ve got both a brown leather J. Crew dress belt  and more casual striped and braided options. The number of pairs of pants I’m packing means I’m actually dialing in my shirts (somewhat) – a white Combat Gent Oxford, a blue Bonobos Oxford, my trusty GAP chambray shirt and my breathable and airy Stock Mfg. Co linen shirt should work well within a rotation. I plan to complement those with a patterned Saturdays NYC short-sleeve shirt and a vintage thrift store ‘Drinks’ shirt (check it out in more detail here).

But for those occasions that call for a significantly upped style game, I’ll be pulling out the big guns. As this is a Mediterranean cruise and all, I enlisted my friends at Combat Gent to set me up with perhaps the most fashion-forward number in their arsenal, the Steel Blue Glenplaid Double-Breasted suit as you can see above. I’m looking forward to breaking up the blazer with some custom grey suit pants and a crisp white Endurance Shirt via Combat Gent as well — and the rest of the time, my J. Crew blazer should certainly be able to pull double duty when worn with accessories like a red floral pocket square (similar to this one).

The footwear rundown for a continental trip. Jute loafers by Andre Coton. Brown leather loafers by G.H. Bass. White sneakers by GREATS Brand. Black athletic sneakers by Athletic Propulsion Labs. Leather chukka boots by Timberland.

The footwear rundown for a continental trip. Jute loafers by Andre Coton. Brown leather loafers by G.H. Bass. White sneakers by GREATS Brand. Black athletic sneakers by Athletic Propulsion Labs. Leather chukka boots by Timberland.

And given the variety of outfit pairings I’m hoping to line up, my shoe ensemble is stretched a little bit more than usual. For travel, my Timberland Coulter Chukka boots (courtesy of my day job, in full disclosure) will likely get the job done while the rest of my footwear is packed — neatly — away. I’m also bringing along my versatile G.H. Bass leather loafers (read more on them here) as well as my trusty GREATS Brand Wilson sneakers. I’m planning to pair the loafers with everything from chinos and T-shirts to jeans and short-sleeve shirts. And on the athletic and shore exploration front, I’m quite excited to try out my Athletic Propulsion Labs sneakers (a GearHungry post on those sneakers will be up soon!). But the footwear that might best fit in with the continental style one sees throughout Greece and Italy is coming on the trip courtesy of start-up loafer brand Andre Coton. These jute fabric loafers are without a doubt the most unique footwear style I’ve tried, but I’m hopeful (confident?) they’ll go well with my more formal outfit pairings.

More everyday carry accessories to round out the suitcase. Travel Kit by Baxter of California. Stainless steel dive watch by Invicta. Steno Book by Field Notes. Tan leather keychain by Apolis.

More everyday carry accessories to round out the suitcase. Travel Kit by Baxter of California. Stainless steel dive watch by Invicta. Steno Book by Field Notes. Tan leather keychain by Apolis.

Rounding out what looks to be a very full set of bags is a great Travel Kit courtesy of Baxter of California (read more on the brand here; I’m told the Travel Kit restock is imminent, so keep your eyes peeled). And while I’m not packing many socks, a few pairs of Richer Poorer no-show socks and a pair or two of patterned socks (for matching with shades of blue) should fit right in. A few everyday carry accessories, like a handy pair of American-made sunglasses, my black rubber Stuhrling Aquadiver watch, my stainless steel Invicta dive watch and my new Daniel Wellington Classic Bristol watch will also be with me as options for daily rotation. Luckily other than my blazer for travel, I’m leaving outerwear behind — which will hopefully prove to be the right choice. To protect my laptop, I’m stowing my computer in my new Issara leather laptop sleeve (available now on the brand’s site), while a reliable Field Notes Brand steno book should more than help me keep track of my travels.

Ernest Alexander

That marks just about everything I’m bringing with me — whether it’ll prove foolish or a wise choice to forgo (somewhat) the Lean Wardrobe philosophy, time will tell. Just because I’m jetting off doesn’t mean the site will be forgotten, however — look out for another guest post via Madhav of Wardrobe Domination, as well as a Style Q&A with my buddy Barron from the excellent menswear site Effortless Gent. Of course, we’ll still close out the week here with the Friday Read and a good ol’ Style Pick — stay tuned, stay stylish!

Are you taking any big trips to close out the summer? What are your go-to travel essentials?
Ben Sherman US

by Beau H.

Brand Profile: Baxter of California

One of the first men's grooming brands still gets it right today. Photo courtesy of Baxter of California.

One of the first men’s grooming brands still gets it right today. Photo courtesy of Baxter of California.

Here on The Style Guide, grooming has been a topic that’s been a focus occasionally, but not for the most part. Like other style upgrades though, the grooming game is one where guys can begin to set themselves apart – much like upgrading your home accessories or interior design. And in a similar fashion, smaller efforts go a long way toward a better overall picture (and appearance), and can really add up to a much better lifestyle all around. Again, it’s still grooming we’re talking about here. While upstarts like Brickell Men’s Products are absolutely getting it right on the newer end of the men’s grooming craze, there are some established brands that continue to deliver on product that really just works.

An inside look at one of the brand's most comprehensive kits -- the Best of Baxter box. Photo courtesy of Baxter of California.

An inside look at one of the brand’s most comprehensive kits — the Best of Baxter box. Photo courtesy of Baxter of California.

Baxter of California is one such brand that’s been at it for decades, revolutionizing its products over the years and really dialing in its approach. The brand’s roots are distinctly West Coast, right down to where they were founded five decades ago (its Super Skin Conditioner was specifically designed for protection from sea and salt air). The designs on the bottles and the packaging even now are clean and crisp, the fonts and colors stick to blue, black and white (a classic menswear combo if ever there was one), and the product – most importantly – delivers, too. If you’re looking for a place to start exploring an improved grooming regimen, Baxter is as good a place to start as any.

They’ve nailed it down to essential areas like Hair, Skin and Body Care products, although they also offer deodorant and candles, too. Plus, packages that combine the highlights into one are available for purchase – crucially, the Best of Baxter package boils things down into one essential set, as does the Travel Kit (soon to be restocked, I’m told, and which you can get a small look at below).

Just part of the spread from the Baxter Travel Kit -- a worthy pickup when it goes back in-stock.

Just part of the spread from the Baxter Travel Kit — a worthy pickup when it goes back in-stock.

Having got my hands on a sample of the Travel Kit in advance of a trip to Greece, I’m here to tell you it’s worth the investment for any trips you might take. For someone who hadn’t truly paid attention to many grooming products before this year, that’s a first. I had previously bought the Under Eye Complex from the brand, and while it initially struck me as a somewhat odd product to use, it definitely does its job well.

Prepped to travel with key essentials from Baxter. Notebook by Field Notes. Keychain by Apolis.

Prepped to travel with key essentials from Baxter. Notebook by Field Notes. Tan leather keychain by Apolis. Stainless steel dive watch by Invicta.

So that’s a worthy pickup (if $28 at first seems like too much for a small tube of cream, rest assured that it does last through multiple months of daily use, at the least). The Travel Kit expands on that value-for-size philosophy and rounds things up nicely into a getaway-ready package (much like other stylish travel accessories worth your time).

The kit contains everything you could ever need for hitting the road, including the brand’s Daily Protein Shampoo and Daily Face Wash, After Shave Balm and Oil-Free Moisturizer. I’ll admit I’m not much in the way of shaving my beard, but when the time comes, the Super Shave Balm (also contained therein) should do the job nicely.
Ernest Alexander
Much like Brickell Men’s Products, Kiehl’s, Jack Black or other grooming brands with an all-around focus, Baxter has a clear vision when it comes to product design, packaging and functionality. These are items that get the job done and do so in a way that’s not incredibly expensive. In fact, it’s fairly approachable. If ponying up for grooming products stretches the budget thin, simpler alternatives will likely do the job. But upgrading to an established name can absolutely yield quality that’s worth a slight investment – and a better appearance at the end (or the start) of the day.

Do you have a go-to grooming company or product? Have you ever tried out Baxter of California?

Ben Sherman US