September 12, 2015December 10, 2015 by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Apolis Boiled Wool Sweatpant

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.

Sweatpants as the Style Pick of the Week? Read on to find out why.

So in the span of about a week-and-half or so, it seems we’ve jumped from Labor Day style to the impending return of fall in our collective #menswear minds — right? That brings us to this week’s Style Pick — sweatpants. Not just any sweatpants, though. Apolis really is a remarkable company, one that does more than just put out excellent basics for every lifestyle. They’re committed to ethical practices and social responsibility in manufacturing– and that’s just the start. It should come as no surprise, then, that one of its newest releases is as fairly made as it is stylish. The Boiled Wool Sweatpant takes the typical college-esque silhouette and turns it into something you can feel comfortable wearing outside the house. That’s not the preference for everyone (and tapered sweatpants, or joggers, are certainly divisive), but if you’re going to wear sweatpants, they might as well be made from a premium alpaca fiber and wool blend and cut in a flattering silhouette. Of course, as with most Apolis products, you do pay a price for that quality and craftsmanship — that could be the breaking point for some folks, particularly when it comes to sweats. But that’s why these made the hypothetical Wish List, right?

Features like side-zip pockets make these feel a bit different than your ordinary sweatpant.

As to styling these sweatpants, they’re certainly cut in a trim enough way to mimic some casual get-ups you might wear with dark denim. Think a crewneck sweater and easygoing chambray shirt plus navy runners. Or, style them as a pair of joggers in this post — with leather sneakers and a lightweight military jacket. A vintage-inspired leather jacket and a simple crewneck tee could also look quite sharp. The color options for this particular Apolis pair (navy or charcoal) are neutral enough that they you can push the envelope a bit more, but they’d probably look best with a laidback fall cardigan and a henley. And when it gets colder in the winter (for most of us, that is), they’d be a heck of a cozy option should you need to brave the elements at all. Quantities of this are limited, and that price could stretch some budgets, but for a pair of sweatpants, they’d be worth every dollar.

Would you consider taking the leap on these Apolis sweatpants? How would you style them?

August 19, 2015August 19, 2015 by Beau H.

The Product Review: Taylor Stitch Standard Issue Slim Chino

Pairing the Taylor Stitch Standard Issue Slim Chino with transitional travel gear. Heathered burgundy pocket tee by Steven Alan. Unconstructed blazer by J. Crew. Pocket square by Banana Republic. Vintage wool baseball cap by Goorin Brothers. Chukka boots by Timberland.

Pairing the Taylor Stitch Standard Issue Slim Chino with transitional travel gear in Italy. Heathered burgundy pocket tee by Steven Alan. Unconstructed blazer by J. Crew. Pocket square by Banana Republic. Vintage wool baseball cap by Goorin Brothers. Chukka boots by Timberland. Glasses by Warby Parker

There’s really no underestimating the power of a great basic in a guy’s wardrobe, whether it’s a pair of dark denim or a crisp Oxford cloth buttondown or a sturdy pair of boots. The khaki chino occupies that same space – it’s the ideal balance between dressy and casual, especially in the manner that current brands have been making them. That typically means a slimmer fit and the lack of pleats that characterized a lot of khakis in days past.

And if you’ve paid any attention to the rise in American-made goods these past few years in the #menswear world, you might’ve heard the name Taylor Stitch. The brand takes a two-pronged approach to distributing its clothing, using a mixture of customer-funded campaigns (similar to Gustin’s approach) and stocking year-round essentials one can pick up at any time. Its Standard Issue Slim Chino (newly restocked in sizes 28 to 36!) is one of those essentials, and for great reason.

Another way to style these chinos, also from my travels to Italy and Greece. Corona not included. White sneakers by GREATS Brand.

Although the pant comes in Olive and Navy as well, the Khaki Slim Chino is as close to a perfect pair of pants as you can get. For those times when dark denim might not work, this pair acts as an ideal dressier stand-in – especially with a classic, unconstructed navy blazer as seen here. The great folks at the brand worked with me on a review of the chinos for GearHungry earlier this spring, and I’ve had the chance to test them out all through the summer – including on a lengthy trip to Greece.

While one could argue that a khaki chino is only part of a rotation of pants – and thus you could afford to skimp a little – this pair from Taylor Stitch makes the exact opposite case. That is, it’s so versatile and you should (presumably) get so much wear out of it that it absolutely pays to divvy up a little cash up front.

Namely, the fabric on these chinos is something else. It’s a soft, custom cotton blend chino that’s brushed for softness – something you can tell right out of the box. There’s no absurd stiffness to these, making them easy to wear right away. While some definitely prefer a heavier chino fabric (and some brands, like Gustin, make a living doing that), having a pair that feels broken-in is a big benefit.

But, that broken-in feel doesn’t mean you’re getting a pair of sunfaded chinos that have also proven popular across the past few seasons. In fact, the color on these is even throughout – and has remained that way despite washing throughout the summer. And if anything, the fabric has gotten softer over time – making them even easier to wear. Note that the fabric certainly isn’t your average, flimsy-feeling pair from a cheaper retailer –- but it’s also not a true lightweight chino a la Bonobos.

Regardless, the versatility and durability is a huge selling point and makes it easier to wear them more frequently. Thankfully, these don’t need to be treated like raw denim, unwashed for months at a time.

Yet another situation in which these chinos do well — business casual. Blazer by J. Crew. Heather Herringbone Shirt by Combat Gent. Pindot tie by Express. Loafers by G.H. Bass Horween leather watch strap by Form-Function-Form and Ameritus Sport watch by Timex. Belt by Target Merona.

And that’s lent itself to some nice outfit combinations across the summer. I’ve paired them with everything from a heathered burgundy pocket tee and navy sneakers (a favorite combo) to a blazer and chukka boots. Throwing them together with a slim chambray shirt and brown leather loafers has also worked well for dressier situations.

The fit on these is also to be commended. If you’re unsure of trying out the brand, it’s worth nothing that these fit remarkably similar to any other mainstream (and arguably lower-quality) pair from one of an industry big shot. (looking at you J. Crew). So the fit is trim to be sure, but offers more give through the thigh than one might expect. It’s perhaps closest to a Levi’s 513, but the brand also offers a Democratic fit that’s slightly looser but still tailored.

Crucially, the waist band fits comfortably on a size 34×32 – it doesn’t bunch when worn with a belt, something that can occasionally be a problem. Watch out if you happen to be more vertically challenged though – the chinos arrive out of the box with a 36-inch inseam, meaning that I’ve chosen to cuff and roll them (as you can see in these photos). You could also take them to a tailor to have them hemmed if you know a particularly good one.

A closer look at the vintage map detailing and sturdy hardware that help set these chinos apart.

As to be expected with a pair of American-made chinos, the detailing is superb. Sturdy bar tack stitches hold the pockets in place on the interior of the chinos, while the front copper button is reinforced, too. Those who appreciate good design should also enjoy the vintage San Francisco maps printed on the interior of the pockets, and the tag noting it’s American-made is always nice to see.

With a pair of pants like these, it’s not a stretch to say you could put together five different outfits, each with a completely different vibe (that might sound familiar to those of you who read my Effortless Gent series!). From rugged long-sleeve henleys and cardigans in the winter to white sneakers and a simple T-shirt in the summer, this really is a four-season pair of pants (the fabric certainly lends itself to that). So the next time you look to buy a pair of chinos, look West – and get out that credit card.
Do you own a pair of Taylor Stitch chinos? Or will you soon? How would you style these?

August 8, 2015August 8, 2015 by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Combatant Gentleman Chinos

A peached Italian cotton makes for a comfortable fit and nice quality for the price.

Although the calendar reads that we’re into the second week of August here, it’s not time to even think about reaching for all that heavy fall gear yet — particularly since I’m currently cruising the Mediterranean. Regardless of where you might be, it’s an even better time to continue getting wear out of four-season staples — things like classic Oxford buttondowns and four-season chinos. I resolved to do just that this past week during my trip to Greece. My friends at Combatant Gentleman were kind enough to supply me a pair of chinos for the voyage — how fitting (pun … maybe intended?) that they just happen to be made out of premium Italian cotton. In a slim-straight cut that’s neither too restricting nor too loose, these chinos have proven crisp, versatile and comfortable — all at an absurdly low price point. Given that, it’s high time you grabbed a pair of these for yourself. I’d even go so far as to say they’re one of the better values on the market in terms of chinos (although Everlane’s recent foray into the pant game does give them some competition).

Breaking out the chinos with a pair of Andre Coton tassel loafers and a vintage ‘drinks’ shirt. Watch by Daniel Wellington.

At just $40, the peached cotton feels much thicker and more durable than a comparable (in style) pair of cheaper chinos from H&M feels upon first inspection. And that’s definitely a good thing. The peached cotton doesn’t wrinkle too easily, and the hook-and-tab closure at the front waist lends these the feel of a dressier pant (similar to something from Bonobos). They’re able to be cuffed or rolled with ease, too (as you can see in this Instagram shot). The one downside, perhaps, is the lack of longer inseam lengths — just 30, 32 and 34-inch inseams are offered as of post time (waist sizes do run up to 40, however). Throughout my recent cruise, I’ve found myself turning to these time and again — I’ve worn them with a vintage short-sleeve shirt as you can see here, but they’ve also worked with a casual T-shirt for a more easygoing look. We haven’t yet hit the crisper temperatures of fall, but even this color would continue to work well in the States, especially up against sweaters in heather red, grey and navy. At the price they’re going for now though, they might not be around that long.

Do you own a pair of Combatant Gentleman chinos? How do you (or would you) style these for the summer or fall?

June 10, 2015June 11, 2015 by Beau H.

What To Wear Today: Travel in Style This Summer

A blue Oxford cloth buttondown — just one of the many style essentials you should pack this summer. Shirt by Bonobos. Weekender bag by Navali. Luggage tag by Owen & Fred.

It might only be Wednesday right now, but my mind’s already thinking ahead to the weekend — I’m hitting the road for a family wedding in the lovely and historic city of Charleston, South Carolina (one of the home bases of my friends over at creative lifestyle site Brothers & Craft, in fact). And I’ve also been brainstorming how to pack in style while getting from fast-paced NYC to the decidedly more laidback Southern locale. Traveling and looking good is definitely something that should be top of mind for all of us as we hit the road the rest of this summer, too. Sharp travel accessories are one thing to elevate your overall game — but what do you wear while traveling and once you get there? Here’s a look at what I’m packing, and what you (maybe? possibly?) should throw in your bag, too. (Editor’s note: Unless you’re a real jetsetter, let’s assume you’re just packing for a long weekend away in a temperate climate – if it’s hotter or colder than that, layers could be added or subtracted).

The Shirt: A Go-Anywhere Oxford Cloth Buttondown [+ Slim, casual T-shirts & polos]

Versatile and ready for anything — the classic blue Oxford cloth buttondown from Buck Mason.

Although that shirt seen above is sold out online (and it’s easy to see why), it’s the perfect stand-in for the type of shirt that would be perfect to wear when traveling — and to have once you get where you’re going. On the cheaper side of things, Old Navy offers up a version at a pricepoint that could allow you to get one in both white and blue. The classic Oxford cloth button-down is the ideal mix of casual-meets-crisp style; it can be paired with a lightweight spring or summer jacket or a blazer in dressier situations, and it works with chinos, stylish shorts or denim (as long as the fit is trim and the shirt doesn’t hang too low when untucked). On the more casual side of things, a polo or two also wouldn’t hurt — this year’s Michael Bastian x Uniqlo polos are affordably priced and feature a wide spread of colors and patterns. On the even more toned-down side of things, slim pocket tees are your friend for casual travel style — in a slim fit, the right tee can even be worn under a blazer.

The Pants: Slim chinos or dark denim [+ laidback shorts]

The Standard Issue Utility Chino from Apolis offers the right color and fit for easygoing, polished travel style.

The slim khaki chino is an all-American classic that’s been freshened up as of late and can be worn just about any way you please (for at least five variations, see an Effortless Gent piece I penned last fall). Dark denim is every bit as versatile, too — either can go with pocket tees or polos, plus that trusty Oxford cloth buttondown shirt. The same goes for matching with different types of footwear, too (more on that below). And assuming you’re heading somewhere slightly warmer than where you are now, tailored shorts in a neutral color are a good pick — perhaps these Club Monaco shorts might do the trick, in fact. If you want something with some stretch and mobility, J. Crew Factory’s Stadium Shorts would be a wise wardrobe addition.

The Shoes: Crisp white or navy sneakers and brown leather loafers

Two pairs of shoes styled two different ways. White sneakers done up casually and leather loafers ready for dressier wear. On the left: Printed shirt by Saturdays Surf NYC. White sneakers by GREATS Brand. Patterned watch strap by The Knottery and watch by Timex. On the right: Blazer by GAP. Leather loafers by Bass. In both looks: Lightwash jeans by J. Crew.

White sneakers, especially in the world of men’s style nowadays, can be worn with just about anything — even a suit if you play your cards right. If you reach for a pair with a slim silhouette, like the GREATS Wilson, the styling potential is ready for just about any situation — short of a black tie dinner. Navy runner-style sneakers are an equally unique option that combine retro cool and modern flair as well. If the occasion calls for a dressier pair of footwear, a pair of classic leather loafers is virtually foolproof; functional and cooling with rolled chinos in hotter weather while still looking sharp. Rugged-yet-refined brown leather desert boots (like the Florsheim Jet Chukka) also strike the right note — and if you had room for just one other pair of shoes on your trip besides sneakers, they would be the best pickup.

The Watch: Stainless steel dive watch (Or your favorite, versatile timepiece)

From sneakers and shorts to denim and desert boots, a stainless steel dive watch is highly versatile.

When it comes down to it, space packing for a trip is limited, no matter how great your weekender bag might be. Packing one watch to meet a variety of situations is one way to free up some of space for souvenirs or another T-shirt or two. There are lots of options out there that fill the under-$100 price point and pack versatility into one package, and in a situation where you might have two pairs of shoes to mix and match with shorts, chinos and denim, ditching a leather strap (which would require coordination with your shoes and belt) is an easy fix. An interchangeable nylon-strap watch could easily stand in if the trip leans more casual (and you don’t mind coordinating with a blue dial).

The Jackets: A cotton knit jacket and a classic navy blazer

A lightweight knit jacket or a lightweight navy blazer (or both) keep things cool, crisp and stylish during travel. For more outfit details, check out my Instagram.

A lightweight knit jacket or a lightweight navy blazer (or both) keep things cool, crisp and stylish during travel. Cotton knit herringbone jacket by Grayers. Navy blazer by J. Crew For more outfit details, check out my Instagram.

While the Grayers Russel Jacket seen in the photo at left is down to just Large and Extra-Large sizes, Old Navy can be counted on here to offer up an equally sporty and equally stylish jacket (made from cotton). In the right fit and with the right staples (like a chambray shirt), an outfit very similar to the one on the left could be worn to work and then right onto the plane. Likewise, an unstructured navy blazer fits the bill perfectly if the occasion calls for something more polished. In a more wrinkle-resistant and lighter fabric, that same blazer could be worn from the office onto the plane, too.

The Rest: A reversible belt, versatile socks and a sharp swimsuit

A reversible belt, neutral socks and a striped swimsuit should finish things off nicely.

Trying to coordinate different pairs of shoes together with varying types of bottoms is another hurdle that requires some packing expertise. The easy way out of that is a simple reversible belt — not always the highest-quality things on the market, to be sure, but effective nonetheless. That way, you solve that pesky space issue and pack (or most likely, wear) just one belt throughout the trip. If space allows, a casual webbed belt could be a nice change of pace. Patterned socks are lots of fun, to be sure, but picking up a couple pairs in neutral colors — like grey, charcoal or navy — would work best for maximum versatility. And reaching for a swim suit with a slimmer cut, like any of the options from this site’s recent swimwear roundup helps you look good while hitting the water (if that’s in the itinerary, that is).

So you’ve got some ideas from the above — what’s on your go-to list when packing? What would you add or omit from this packing suggestion? Give me a shout on Twitter!

April 25, 2015April 25, 2015 by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Apolis Standard Issue Utility Chino

The Standard Issue Utility Chino from Apolis. A rich caramel color, modern fit and attention to detail make these worth the higher price point.

In keeping with the theme of last week’s Style Pick, I tried to switch things up from the typical offerings that have categorized this series (y’know, mostly shirts and outerwear). And while it was a tough call, the stylish and sturdy-looking Standard Issue Utility Chino from Apolis is this week’s selection. It’s that time of year where it’s not quite warm enough to bust out a short-sleeve printed shirt and shorts just yet, so a little thicker pair of pants will have to suffice. Made out of a 9.5 oz. cotton canvas and finished with buffalo horn buttons, these Apolis chinos are one dependable pair of pants. And if you’re not familiar with the brand, it’d be wise to take a peek at the continental classics they’re crafting — the right way.

These aren’t Apolis chinos, for the record, but this is just one way the classic pant could be styled. White henley by Pistol Lake. Chromexcel Horween leather watch strap by Form-Function-Form.

Like the rest of the brand’s offerings (including a white pocket tee seen on GQ earlier this week), the price is a heck of a lot to pony up for a pair of chinos. But, the brand is using rigorous social & environmental standards to craft its product, something in which more of us should probably be taking an interest. And in a neutral, rich Hunter Khaki color and a slimmer, modern-leaning fit, these chinos should work with everything from a trim white henley and patterned watch strap to brown loafers and a slim blazer for occasions calling for more polish. Also available in Grey, Olive and a lighter, cream-like Khaki color, the dark caramel shade pictured at the top of the page is probably going to be the best pick — and for $138, it had better be. Maybe one day?

Have you bought from Apolis before? What are your thoughts on the brand?

P.S. Apolis isn’t involved in this giveaway, but if you still want some great gear & goods from Gustin, The Motley and Taft Clothing, the trio is running a giveaway until April 30 here!

April 18, 2015April 18, 2015 by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Billy Reid Clarke Pants

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 — like the pants discussed below. For more Wish List items from Beau, head here, and to see other Style Picks, head here.

Luxurious pants from an esteemed retailer.

So recent Style Picks have really centered around … shirts. Lots and lots of shirts, from a great henley to a nice set of pocket T-shirts and even a soft-looking French terry stadium jacket. It was high time to change things up in that department, and a trip to the excellent West Village Billy Reid store secured this week’s Style Pick (fear not — these beautiful pants are available online, too). And before you ask — I was not able to buy them; this Style Pick belongs in the expensive splurges category above). But, like much of the famed American designer’s work (including the covetable Bond peacoat), these are truly outstanding.

A tailored but more traditional cut.

Made of a ridiculously soft and luxurious-feeling 60% cotton, 40% silk (yes, silk), blend, these pants feature a single pleat (which has been building on the runways for a while now) and tab adjusters in lieu of a belt. The texture definitely feels similar to that of a knit tie, actually. Despite the pleats, these are the kind of pants that are trend-resistant, not fashion-forward — and for that eyepopping price tag ($395!), they better be. The cut is traditional but still looks tailored in an old-school sort of way. In the event that you’re able to buy these (maybe a nice tax refund came your way?), I could see them being worn with everything from an unconstructed blazer, dress shirt and striped tie to a high-low T-shirt & trousers combo. As a final note to tempt you, the brand is running a 20% Off deal for its SS15 collection through tomorrow night at midnight with the code: SS15. So, still pricey — but worth it?

Tell me: What’s on your Expensive Splurges list as of late? Would you ever consider buying these?

One last note: Before the weekend’s up, this site will transition to The Style Guide (if you haven’t gotten the previous memos!), covering the same great categories in men’s style and fashion.

Stay stylish,

-Beau

February 3, 2015 by Beau H.

Brand Profile: Tom Cridland Trousers

Editor’s note: To read past brand profiles on the blog, click here.

A U.K.-based brand expanding into the U.S. via Kickstarter.

The men’s pants market has received several shots in the arm across the past half-decade or so, notably from Bonobos and their tremendous Washed Chinos. Of course, Bonobos has since expanded into brick-and-mortar Guideshops across the country. Some brands are still doing it the “old-fashioned” way in this new age of technology, starting with an online presence and expanding from there. Tom Cridland is a curious case in this regard — they’ve got a solid brand base in the UK (and stock in certain physical retailers), along with a full e-commerce retail site, but they’ve recently taken to Kickstarter to finance a push into the States (check out the full Kickstarter campaign here). Check out more coverage on their brand blog here, as well.

Tom Cridland’s Classic Navy option.

They’re offering cotton trousers in a wide array of bright colors for now, similar to Bonobos, and they’re aiming to raise $20,000 by Feb. 15. That’s a pretty tight deadline, but the campaign to date has raised more than $11,000. The brand’s offerings range from a Classic Navy chino to louder colors, like a Chili Red pair of chinos (seen below) that wouldn’t look out of place with a pared-down set of white sneakers and a grey henley this summer.

A more vibrant Chili Red that could be dialed down with minimal accessories.

The fit of these pants looks particularly promising for those who favor a slim cut — from the photos, these pants look like they should rival something like the Bonobos Slim Tailored option. However, they’re only offering a slim cut, for now — that leaves those with more leg muscle out in the cold. Sizes do run from 30R to 40L. And note that while Kickstarter can be tricky for certain men’s fashion campaigns, this has a solid base to build off and some good deals for those who contribute (a pledge of $98 gets you a pair of Tom Cridland trousers — normal retail $139). On top of that, for $176, you can knock $100 off the normal retail price for two pairs of trousers. A bonus: Worldwide shipping is included in the pledge.

At full retail, those prices are certainly a cut above what most of us would pay — that’s what makes this Kickstarter so advantageous. And if you’ve been looking to take the plunge on a more colorful pair of pants, these could be just the ticket — remember, just one pop of color at a time though!

Any plans to contribute to this Kickstarter campaign? Thoughts on Tom Cridland? Let me know below!

September 19, 2014September 29, 2014 by Beau H.

Shopping on a Budget: An Updated Men’s Style Starter Kit, Part 1

The process of building great style on a budget is incredibly tricky and only getting trickier, as it seems retail prices are on the up-and-up everywhere (especially at mainstay stores like J. Crew). Budget style has been a frequent focus of this blog (check out the Starter Style series for more on that), but there’s always room for improvements and updates. Last year, I covered how to build a start-up wardrobe for under $250; think of this series as a revamp to that, with a slightly wider selection and some new categories. This first part will tackle the basics you need on your legs — chinos, jeans and shoes, namely. Next week, we’ll tackle casual knits (tees and henleys), casual and dress shirts and sweaters, and then wrap up with accessories. Without further ado, dive in below to check out how you can start to update your wardrobe for as little green as possible.

The Shoes: Versatile Brown Chukka Boots

The ever-versatile brown chukka boot.

Starting from the ground up, if you had to go with, let’s say, just one pair of shoes to start, it’s hard to go wrong with a versatile chukka boot (this model’s out of stock right now, but a similar option can be found here for only about $5 more). With just the right amount of sleek styling and in with a build that’s adaptable to both business casual situations and more casual-rugged outfits, this particular chukka pays homage to the more laidback Clarks desert boot while looking more polished. It just looks more natural to wear this with jeans off-duty than a regular, low-cut dress shoe, as well. And in a rich brown, this shoe works across all seasons and can even stand up to harsher fall and winter weather. When considering adding in a pair of casual sneakers on a serious budget, look for a lightweight, neutral plimsoll, like these from Urban Outfitters. Lastly, if you do happen to need plain old dress shoes, this pair from JC Penney should get the job done in a pinch.

TOTAL: About $125

The Jeans: Levi’s Dark Denim

A timeless original.

When it comes to buying jeans, it’s really tough to beat a classic original like Levi’s. For about $50 right now through the Levi’s website, you can pick up a pair of great-fitting, dark denim — a wardrobe staple that can be almost worn anytime, anywhere. In both business-casual settings and in any casual situation, a dark, slim pair — like the Levi’s 513 — won’t steer you wrong. At such a low price, it’s much more cost-effective to pick up a few pairs than paying more for one expensive denim. Durability isn’t sacrificed to an extreme degree, either. On a personal note, a pair of Levi’s 508’s (now the 522 model) have held up for well over two years with heavy wear — and that’s just one example of their durability.

TOTAL: $50

The ‘Other’ Pants: Slim Tan Chinos

In a versatile, all-season shade of tan.

Unfortunately, dark denim does need to be put aside for more formal business and office settings, and it’s also nice to have different pairs of versatile pants for other situations, too. That’s where a pair (or multiple pairs) of slim chinos can fill in. They look more office-ready than dark denim on some occasions while still staying budget-friendly. Most importantly, don’t make the mistake of thinking the chino can’t be worn casually, either — check out great ways to style them over here at Effortless Gent, as written by yours truly. Uniqlo’s offering a tan chino right now for an outstandingly low price — know that sizes and colors are limited now, but keep an eye on their site for more of these.

TOTAL: About $30

So, starting with just the basic styles here and building off of those, you’re looking at about $200 in total (keep in mind that last year’s style breakdown set the overall budget at $250). However, that’s spending on three pieces that can work practically anywhere, and do so for a long time. And, when dropping more on certain items, it’s wise to know when to cut back in other areas. Look for more next week, when we’ll tackle a full range of shirting options for the stylish guy on a budget.

Any suggestions for alternatives to these styles? Favorite budget picks for jeans, chinos or shoes?

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