March 1, 2017March 3, 2017 by Beau H.

Style Suggestion: How to Wear Your New Favorite Polo

We try to keep things moving forward when it comes to our Style Suggestion series on the blog. That is, mixing up situations — including things like how to dress for winter travel — and certain occasions, like dressing for the polar vortex. Now that we’ve reached the start of March (pretty wild in and of itself), it’s time to turn our eyes toward spring style. We’re not necessarily all the way out of chilly weather yet, and rain likely beckons ahead in the forecast. But when you want to lighten things up, how do you do so in a way that’s crisp and yet easily wearable through the season? Easy. A long-sleeve polo. It’s got some “geezer style” connotations, but the long-sleeve polo is also a classic menswear piece worn with casual cool (and James Bond in “Casino Royale” even dons a navy long-sleeve rugby shirt). Luckily for us, we’re taking a great long-sleeve polo from Paul Fredrick and styling it accordingly today for spring weather. Read on, shop away and join us on Instagram and Twitter for plenty o’ daily #menswear inspiration.

The Long-Sleeve Polo: Paul Fredrick Silk, Cotton and Cashmere Polo Pullover — $79.50 [Get 20 percent off and free shipping on any order with code ‘IMSCBH’].

A refined layering option made from luxurious fabric.

Part polo, part pullover and made with quite the luxurious blend of silk, cotton and cashmere, this Paul Fredrick long-sleeve polo is the way to go if you want breathability, comfort and style fit for spring weather. The navy colorway calls to mind what Bond himself wore, and it’s the right pick here in that it’s not too bright or loud — perfect for all types of style scenarios, including dressing for Sunday brunch. Plus, you can pick up it up for 20 percent off using the code above.

The Jacket: Abercrombie & Fitch Box Quilted Jacket — $130

A neat new addition to your spring outerwear rotation.

Just as critical as your base or mid-layer — perhaps moreso — is a stylish spring jacket. As with its fall and winter offerings (like the rugged, essential Abercrombie & Fitch Chamois Shirt), the brand continues to build on its reputation as an essential company for today’s well-dressed guy. With unique takes on outerwear like the Box Quilted Jacket

you get a different look combined with comfort (the fleece lining helps with that). What’s more, the neat olive color is a nice way to transition from the darker hues of winter into the lighter shades of spring and summer.

The Undershirt: Mack Weldon 18-Hour Jersey V-Neck Undershirt — $32

Nothing fancy or overpriced about a comfortable undershirt.

While you could use the pullover in a fashion similar to a V-neck sweater and layer up with a classic chambray shirt, it’s visually interesting enough on its own to merit the use of a simple (yet well-made) Mack Weldon undershirt. Call your Style Guide author crazy, but from the brand’s merino long-sleeve tees to the neat Mack Weldon Vesper Polo, these guys are a brand to know — and wear any time you need a comfortable base layer.

The Chinos: Abercrombie & Fitch Classic Straight Chino Pants — $68

Yet another item to pick up from a brand that’s getting better and better.

If you’re more likely to think of baggy cargo shorts — or pants — when you think of A&F than slim chinos, think again. The brand’s revamped focus centers around all manner of menswear staples, including what could be your new favorite pair of chinos (seriously — you just haven’t bought ’em yet). They feature what looks to be a straight, yet relatively tailored, cut. And the use of cotton and elastane should give them some comfortable stretch. Yes indeed, grab a stylish leather weekender bag and wear these bad boys when you hit the road this spring.

The Boots: Astorflex Bitflex Chelsea Boots — $180

An ethically made, great-looking Chelsea boot for a casual style situation.

If these boots ring any bells, that’s great — crucially, they were the footwear pick of choice in a feature on how to layer up in style this winter. Casual leather chukka boots would also be a fine style move here — particularly if it’s rainy and you want to keep that suede safe — but these Bitflex Chelsea Boots offer up both spring-appropriate texture and a bit of rich color. Don’t forget that Chelsea boots add a decidedly modern vibe to the more classic parts of this outfit (including khaki chinos and a long-sleeve polo).

The Watch:Tanner Goods Martenero Ace Automatic Watch — $549.98

A revamp of the pilot’s watch, with a tough leather strap for good measure.

What do you get when the heritage leather goods makers at Tanner Goods decide to update a stunning pilot’s watch? Well, you get the Martenero Ace Automatic Watch, another recent #OOTD accessory pick. It’s definitely got a lot going for it — and for that investment-worthy price, you can be darn sure I’m recommending you wear it as much as you can. Featuring a natural shell Cordovan strap that’ll age wonderfully each time you wear it, the Desert Tan face on the Ace Automatic Watch is also bold and unique. In short, the perfect timepiece for this outfit.

The Socks: CHUP Prairie Socks — $35 [Check out the full run of CHUP socks while we’re here].

Not your everyday socks — and not your everyday price for a pair, either.

We never let stylish socks slide here at the blog — especially if they’re a pricey, yet well-made, pair like these CHUP Prairie Socks. The design offers a shot of unique color and pattern, and you get handmade quality via a wearable cotton blend. As always, your socks shouldn’t be an area you overlook.

The Sunglasses: Sunski Dipseas Sunglasses — $44.98

Different than your everyday aviators, but just as necessary in your rotation.

Hey, recognize that accessory? Stylish men’s sunglasses? Sure you do. We certainly haven’t hit full-on beach weather as of yet, but we’ll get there soon (hopefully). And you know what else is great? Well, the Dipseas Sunglasses from our friends at Sunski are unique, effective and affordably priced. They’re just the type of piece to offset a more casual look in a cool fashion — and that’s how every outfit should be finished off, right?

If you’re now amped and fully ready to step out in classic spring style, you’re not alone. From a sharp, revamped piece of spring outerwear to your new favorite long-sleeve polo and classic Mack Weldon basics, this outfit has something for everyone. Essential chinos provide classic contrast alongside the more modern Bitflex Chelsea Boots, and before you know it, you’ll be breaking out a neat pair of Dipseas Sunglasses (trust me on that). And as I said before, a durable and tough watch like the Martenero Ace Automatic Watch ties everything together very nicely indeed. Good luck getting ready for spring, and let me know what you think of today’s outfit in the comments.

See you around and stay stylish,

-Beau

July 23, 2016July 19, 2016 by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Mack Weldon Vesper Polo

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.

Easygoing, effortless and still sharp — that’s the Mack Weldon Vesper Polo for you. Photo courtesy of Mack Weldon.

So, you sidle up to the bar on a Saturday night — maybe on a first date. What are you wearing? A polo inspired by the crisp, clean, effortlessly cool style of 007, that’s what. My friends, we’re talking today about the Mack Weldon Vesper Polo, a heck of a polo that puts together the favorite style principles of 007 in one shirt. It doesn’t hurt that it’s named for the original (and perhaps best-known) drink downed by everyone’s favorite secret agent. The Vesper Polo nails everything you should look for in a stylish polo for summer — it’s got a clean, modern fit, for starters. And the lightweight micro-mesh knit fabric is exactly what you need to keep you cool and dry in the heat of July (we’ll have an #OOTD styling this exact polo next week, in fact). After checking one out myself during a hot and busy #NYFWM, I’ve got to vouch for that. Plus, this polo is everything great style should be — it’s understated, it’s refined, it’s easily wearable, and the price ain’t half-bad either ($68, for the unitiated). It’s part of Mack Weldon’s effort to expand on basics that work for every guy’s wardrobe — if you’ve shopped the brand or participated in our most recent reader giveaway with these guys, you know that all too well. Add this polo to your other favorites of theirs — like an easily wearable Pima Crew Tee — and you’ll be on your way to building a sharp wardrobe any day of the week.

While the Kentucky Blue option looks great, Bond might go for the Total Eclipse Blue polo. Photo courtesy of Mack Weldon.

Yet, the great thing about the Vesper Polo is that it’s a great place to start no matter your style level. Seriously, every guy can use reminders about things like proper fit, and this polo makes it easy. It’s wearable with slim shorts or tan chinos, and it doesn’t look out of place when worn in an even more laidback fashion — like atop your favorite swim trunks as you head to the beach or pool. And the self-collar doesn’t flop around like other polo collars — it’ll stay upright through the day (even moreso if you use collar stays), so you can rock it beneath a slim-fit khaki blazer to the office. The trickiest part about the whole endeavor might be picking a favorite color — the Kentucky Blue option seen here is reliable and crisp, yet that Total Eclipse Blue (a dark navy, really) is the same color favored by Bond in Casino Royale (although that option is a bit pricier). So you certainly can’t go wrong with a well-priced, well-performing, effortlessly stylish polo ready for the rest of summer (and even able to be rocked into early fall when layered under a shawl cardigan, for example. The toughest part is going to be putting it away when the weather turns cold — yet if you live in a warm climate, you’ll have the gift that keeps on giving year-round. Keep it handy for that next date in the meantime, yeah?

Have you picked up the Mack Weldon Vesper Polo yet? What’s your favorite style combination when it comes to polos?

August 29, 2015 by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Grayers Slub Nep Jersey Polo

Sticking with a polo right through the end of summer.

Hopefully, there’s not too much off about this week’s Style Pick — a polo? Right at the end of “summer” for a lot of us? Yes, of course. Here’s why — there’s still plenty of time to wear that polo on its own, then layered up under some more unique combinations, like henleys or casual sweaters, in the weeks thereafter. Of course, you’ll then have a newer polo in your rotation come spring as well (if that’s even an issue). And the more casual the fabric and texture, the more the polo might wear like a T-shirt, anyways. That’s what the Slub Nep Jersey Polo from Grayers accomplishes. It combines a textured nep yarn and a just-right three-button collar for a polo that could even work under a blazer (provided you’re equipped with some collar stays). Grayers has got a lot going for it in terms of styles that walk the line between continental and preppy, so it only makes sense that a polo from the brand would blur those lines, too.

One of three color options for this style of soft-knit polo.

And in a slightly heightened shade of blue when compared to a deeper navy, it can be styled in the exact same ways as the classic color while bringing a bit of pop. After all, a navy polo is a style stalwart that can be dressed up or down — check out my Effortless Gent series for more suggestions. If you’re on the hunt for a slightly different color, a Light Blue Denim option is available on the Grayers website, as is a Charcoal polo that could pull double-duty with earthy olive chinos well into fall. Prices are up there when you stack it up next to something like an H&M polo, but you get a reliably classic option that should offer a modern fit and well-made fabric. Even if summer’s almost over, that’s still a pretty good buy.

Do you own any Grayers product? How would you style this polo into the fall for maximum versatility?

August 7, 2015August 6, 2015 by Beau H.

Style abroad: Travels through Greece and Italy, Part 2

A portion of the stunning Acropolis site in Athens.

In lieu of the regularly scheduled Friday Read, I wanted to take the opportunity to share another dispatch from abroad – the trip has simply been too excellent not to do so! Wednesday and Thursday’s stops on the Royal Caribbean Rhapsody of the Seas took us to world-famous Mykonos and the equally famous Athens. (Catch up on part 1 of the trip here, and on what I’m packing here).

The payoff after a bike ride to the beach in Mykonos. Setter Swim Trunks by Orlebar Brown. Stainless steel dive watch by Invicta. Sunglasses by Randolph Engineering.

For a bike ride through the hills of Mykonos to a stunning beach (and then a ride back to an organic winery), I went with functional gear – namely, my Pistol Lake sweatshorts and Athletic Propulsion Labs sneakers, both of which worked perfectly for a rather strenuous bike ride (having barely survived, I can only assume the beer and cigars the night before didn’t help, either!). The vibrant blue waters and lovely sand beach made for a great atmosphere, especially as we enjoyed homemade lemonade prepared by our tour guide.

Of course, the picturesque vista was a prime opportunity to break out some James Bond-inspired (or rather, authentic) swim trunks from Orlebar Brown, along with my Invicta dive watch. My parents gave the family GoPro cameras to chronicle the trip as well, so the waterproof option was handy to have!

Exploring the Acropolis in a casual get-up. Polo by Michael Bastian x Uniqlo. Khaki shorts by Banana Republic. White sneakers by GREATS Brand. Leather watch by Daniel Wellington. Sunglasses by Randolph Engineering.

During dinner, I kept things laidback with some Taylor Stitch chinos and my ever-reliable GREATS Brand sneakers – a combination perfect for strolling from cruise bar to cruise bar. And the heat of Athens on Thursday made it essential to keep rocking my GREATS sneakers plus a tailored Michael Bastian x Uniqlo polo as we explored the Acropolis, as seen above. My trusty Daniel Wellington watch was also a crisp complement to the outfit, and it’s gone well with T-shirts and tailored wear alike.

The cruise has presented the opportunity to kick back a lot, too. Slim chinos by Taylor Stitch. White sneakers by GREATS Brand. Beer by Corona.

Down the hill from the legendary site, the line-up of cafes and small shops is nice and not too overwhelming – the fresh lunch choices, including authentic fare like lamb kebabs – are delicious, too. Our final port stop on Friday takes us to the small seaside village of Katakolon, where a private guide is set to take us to yet another legendary tour stop, Olympia – site of the ancient Olympic games.

The enchanting Rhapsody then sails back to the port town of Civitavecchia, Italy across the weekend – but between now and then, keep a weather eye out for the weekly Style Pick. In the meantime, follow along via my Instagram and Twitter accounts using #StyleGuideAbroad.

Stay stylish,

-Beau

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?

April 29, 2015June 2, 2015 by Beau H.

The Product Review: The Michael Bastian x Uniqlo Polo, 2015

Going in-person with the latest from the Michael Bastian x Uniqlo 2015 collection. Glasses by Warby Parker. Photo credit: Liz Todd.

When the Michael Bastian x Uniqlo collaboration was first announced way back in the spring of 2013, there was some uncertainty as to how the partnership between the fast-fashion outlet and the lauded American designer would sell — and more crucially, how it might be received (at least from this #menswear writer). Well, those questions were answered when polos flew off the shelves in-store and online. Last year’s collaboration polos offered more eclectic designs mixed with traditional prep-sportswear touches, but didn’t seem to sell nearly as well at first — so the question remained, would the collaboration return?

Washed polo by Michael Bastian x Uniqlo. Navy chinos by Bonobos. Striped webbed belt by J. Crew Factory. Silver dive watch by Invicta.

A look at the trim fit of a polo from this year’s collab. Navy chinos by Bonobos. Striped webbed belt by J. Crew Factory. Silver dive watch by Invicta.

It’s back in full force, and then some. This year’s run expands on the customary, well-designed polo set to include colorful T-shirts, tank tops and two styles of shorts – but the polos really caught this writer’s eye. There’s again a mix of quirky designs alongside classic prep polos, like ones with thick rugby stripes and open collars. I opted for a more middle-of-the road option, a washed pique polo in a medium royal blue with a buttondown chambray collar (also available in colors ranging from white to orange). As with last year’s offering, count me highly pleased with my pickup — perhaps the first of a few from the line.

A look at the rather substantial collar and small details, like a notched V & extra button at the biceps.

While one might expect a chambray collar to be floppy or lack structure, I’ve found it to be fairly substantial. It’s slightly larger than the typical polo collar, with a nice roll and the ability to stand up across the day thanks to that buttondown collar (in particular, that style from the brand in general is worth a look). The mix of light purple & blue stripes on the collar is a stylish and effective way to break things up visually, and I had no problem pairing it with a thicker-striped cream & navy belt (different pattern scales, see?). The dressier four-button placket gives the shirt a casual-but-polished feel. As a bonus, the washed pique fabric is soft and breathes pretty well for being a thicker material. It’s got a nice hint of stretch to it, and a Medium fit my six-foot, one-inch frame nicely — it was trim across the chest, through the shoulders and particularly at the sleeves (no baggy golf polo issues here). The V-shaped notch and extra button at the bicep is the sort of detail that design aficionados can appreciate, while the button-flap chest pocket is a neat visual touch, too.

One of the many ways this polo can be styled. Slim dark denim by Bonobos. White sneakers by GREATS. Striped webbed belt by J. Crew Factory. Silver dive watch by Invicta. See more on Instagram.

The color on this option is also a nice change of pace from more solid navy polos. There’s a marled-like texture to the fabric because of the pre-washing, and this shade of blue plays well off darker denim or navy chinos (as you can see here). This polo would also look right at home with light to medium-grey chinos or a deep tan khaki pair, too. The buttondown collar makes this one polo you can wear with white sneakers and a blazer — an unconstructed navy option (keep coming back to that one, right?) offers lots of easygoing polish.

Another look at how you could style pieces from the collaboration. Image courtesy Capsule Show.

I actually paired my selection with a light tan V-neck (similar to this J. Crew sweater) on a recent chilly spring day to great effect, too. The collar stood up throughout the day and the fit of the polo itself was trim enough to accomodate the extra top layer. As with last year’s polos, this is one designer collaboration worth looking into — it seems as if Uniqlo has really made that their forte, what with the recent reintroduction of the “Best of J+” collection with famed minimalist-minded designer Jil Sander. At the prices these polos are going for now (2 for just $39.90), I’d suggest you grab at least two — or perhaps more.

What do you think of the designs in this year’s collaboration? How many are you planning on picking up (if any)?

March 31, 2015March 31, 2015 by Beau H.

Back in Stock: The Return of Michael Bastian x Uniqlo For Spring 2015

A quick look at some collaboration offerings.

Some big news on the men’s style front this morning — famed American designer Michael Bastian’s wildly affordable and wildly popular collaboration with quick-moving basics brand Uniqlo is back in stores this spring — specifically, as of today.

Plenty of ’70s vibes and athletic influences seen here.

The polos launched on the U.S. site early this morning, and early indications are that this collaboration is definitely worth dropping some cash on. There are classic thin and thick rubgy-stripe versions that bring to mind sporting influences (much like some pieces in last year’s collaboration). There are also plenty of wild prints — paper airplanes or red dragons, anyone? Contrast collars, classic piped-sleeve polos and a more adventurous open-collar style (that also appeared in last year’s line) help to round out the polo offerings.

A washed cotton polo from the Uniqlo x Michael Bastian 2014 collection. Jeans by J. Crew (484 fit). Belt by Merona. Desert boots by Clarks. Sunglasses by Tom Ford.

Men’s shorts, tees and tank tops are also being added to the line for the first time, according to industry news site Shophound — this is something that should please many of us who simply want more of the collection. The bush-short style of four of the pairs is unique, to say the least, but it could provide a more tailored touch. From personal experience, the collaboration’s polos are relatively soft and breathable for pique fabric, a definite bonus. The washed cotton polos are also breathable and very wearable. They fit trim and best of all, usually go on-sale via a bundle pack (buy 2 for $29.90, for example). This year’s polo crop comes in at prices starting around $25 — a terrific price for a standout (and much-anticipated) collaboration. Pick up a few while they’re still around.

March 12, 2015 by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Uniqlo Printed Polo Shirt

Not that unusual from far away, but from close-up — that's what makes this worthy of a feature.

Not that unusual from far away, but close-up — that’s what makes this worthy of a feature.

This week’s Style Pick of the Week is coming at you a little earlier than normal thanks to a planned weekend trip to Florida. And it’s times like this one, with warm weather approaching, that really have me searching for a great polo shirt. Now, that’s not just any old white polo up top. Squint hard — or just gaze normally — at the small pindot pattern on this piece and be … amazed? While lots of us are fans of Uniqlo’s Michael Bastian polos and could be holding out for a spring release, options like the above one will have to suffice for now. At just under $25, the price is absolutely right. Unlike those of other brands, Uniqlo’s pique polos are nice and breathable with a good amount of stretch and a trim fit — all keys to keep in mind when browsing online and in-stores.

This Uniqlo polo shirt in particular switches things up with that small flurry of red and blue dots. It’s the type of item that looks cool from far away, but should really catch eyes (in a good way) up close. Some of the designs of Uniqlo’s polos (particularly the Michael Bastian collection) have been a bit out there, but this is a good example of turning the dial up just enough without overdoing it. The dots are small enough to wear this shirt with different shades of blue — even lightwash jeans or navy shorts if you’re going for a one color type-of look.

What’s your take on this polo? Would you wear it? Let me know!

Editor’s note: Just because I’m jetting away for the weekend doesn’t mean the work stops! A post on wearing green for St. Patrick’s Day is coming up tomorrow!

May 13, 2014June 2, 2015 by Beau H.

The Product Review: The Uniqlo x Michael Bastian Polo

A washed cotton polo from the Uniqlo x Michael Bastian collection. Jeans by J. Crew (484 fit). Belt by Merona. Desert boots by Clarks. Sunglasses by Tom Ford.

Editor’s note: For a review of the 2015 edition of this polo, click here. And for details on the breaking news launch of the line, check out this story.

As spring gets closer to summer (on the calendar, at least), certain style items should definitely move to the front of your closet — namely, the classic polo shirt. Short-sleeve shirts, as well as polos, are style essentials for the warmer months and as long as the fit is kept trim through the body and sleeves, the right short-sleeve shirt can go many different places. What’s so great about the modern polo is the variety of unique takes on the classic style —and that’s what the latest collaboration between Michael Bastian and Uniqlo does so well. This year’s edition of the collaboration has been out for some time now, but it’s definitely still worth looking into. Last year’s collection between the famed American designer and the fast-fashion outlet was an instant hit, selling out seemingly faster than the shelves could be stocked (at least in an online sense). In glancing through the site at various times last year, several styles were sold out completely for days at a time.

From inside the Broadway Avenue Uniqlo store.

Some of the buzz seems to have died down a bit judging from the amount of styles and sizes left in some varieties within this year’s collection, but all the hallmarks of good design remain. There’s a wide mix of colors, including some with thick rugby stripes and open collars (reminiscent of a soccer jersey), and other polos with small prints and plaids. On a recent trip to a Uniqlo store in NYC, the shelves were positively stocked with these polos, nearly all of them marked down to under $23. For the fit and quality, that’s an outstanding price. Perhaps the most eye-catching in this collection are the polos with miniature animal print designs on them. While some are against such a trendy look, they hit the personal sweet spot in terms of a shirt with just enough personality.

The two printed polos in the personal collection have a longer four-button placket and a fairly substantial collar that stands up well on its own for most of the day. A small, button-triangle opening at each of the sleeves near the bicep is a nice added detail. And of course, the prints themselves are quite entertaining. Grey with white raccoon print? Sure. White with navy blue elephants? You bet. They bring just enough interest without being overly distracting — something that’s helped in no small part by the largely neutral colors used in each design.

One of the printed polos from the collection. Black jeans by American Apparel. Desert boots by Clarks. Watch by Stuhrling. Sunglasses by Tom Ford.

Those neutral colors make them easy to pair with just about anything, from dark tan or brown chinos (or even black denim, as pictured) to a more colorful, complementary pair of shorts. Since the polo brings some pop with the print, it’s best to keep the shoes (and pants) minimal-looking. However, you can liven up your accessories a touch with a patterned watch strap in a complementary color without going too overboard.

Additionally, the fit of the shirts is spot-on; a medium is just trim enough without being too tight. And for being made out of pique material, the fabric is fairly breathable and stretchy — not too suffocating, like other pique-type materials (the materials listing puts it at 100% cotton). And on top of the other perks, the collection is extensive enough that if you’re in the market for a less flashy polo, there are plenty of more subdued options with just enough detailing (including this white option with two front-button pockets, as pictured at the top).

For now, the polos are on-sale through Uniqlo for at 2 for $29.90 — with a deal that great, a huge variety of options and styles, and a nice, modern fit, these polos are worth every penny.

April 18, 2014April 18, 2014 by Beau H.

Spring Style Essentials, Part 2: Shirts

A short-sleeve shirt (or a polo) can be the perfect style pick for spring and summer. Shirt by Express. Jeans by J. Crew. Sunglasses by Ralph Lauren.

When the weather warms up, some key style moves can make the transition from fall or winter to spring decidedly easier. In the shirting department, we’ve seen some critical trends pop up in recent months, especially the resurgence of the short-sleeved collared shirt. While that’s certainly a style move worth exploring, the first (and perhaps easiest) way to make the transition is with a simple polo shirt. That’s not to say that long-sleeve collared shirts should take a break permanently from your wardobe; rather, think of the polo as a worthy substitute on more days. It might bring to mind a bland uniform look, but even James Bond wears polos now. Although it’s an item most of us have had in our closet and worn for years, the biggest way to upgrade the look now revolves around some main keys, starting with fit and moving on to color.

With spring officially here, reach for a polo and matching shorts. Navy polo and shorts by J. Crew Stanton. Belt by Target Merona. Glasses by Burberry.

Think of the polo as a the warm-weather version of an Oxford cloth button-down.The polo is virtually fool-proof as a casual (or sharp) item when it comes to your top layer in terms of versatility — it can be worn to class, to work in a fairly casual environment, and out to dinner or drinks on a patio. But, what helps with versatility is fit. Retailers now are stocking slim-fit polo options at great prices by the dozen, and that’s exactly how the ideal polo should fit, even if you have some more bulk. The sleeves should hit about mid-bicep, and the fit through the torso should be clean — think minimal extra fabric bunching around the sides or waist.

Once you’ve nailed the fit, it’s a wise bet to experiment with color. The lighter, warmer weather of spring is the ideal time to work some more vibrant colors into your wardrobe — something like a crisp, clean white is a nice place to start, but unique shades of red and light blue are also fairly versatile additional colors to start with. And if the fit of the polo is right, experimenting with some pattern can be more easily done — take a look at the rest of the Michael Bastian X Uniqlo collaboration for some extremely competitively-priced patterned polos.

A slightly more unique take on light denim paired with the short-sleeve shirt. Canvas sneakers by Urban Outfitters.

Short-sleeved shirts also are another easy way to mix things up in your closet. The short-sleeved shirt has gained a bad reputation in recent years (think Dwight Schrute) but recent updates on the style are a far cry from that. Like the ideal polo, the short-sleeved collared shirt incorporates a slimmer fit through the sleeves and body. Picking a shirt with a bit of a pattern or stripe to it mixes up the bad stigma of the short-sleeve dress shirt even further (ASOS offers a wide variety of short sleeve shirts with patterns and prints at nice prices, to start). And with both the polo and the short-sleeve shirt, the possibilities for what you do with the rest of your outfit are pretty limitless also (as long as your bottom half matches nicely in terms of color with the top half). Dark denim is a nice anchor to any outfit, and in the spring and summer, lightwash denim (as pictured above) works well with various neutral shades. Shorts in neutral colors (think a dark or light khaki) downplay the loudness of a printed shirt or polo, too.

So the next time you reach for a long-sleeve shirt in the hot weather, turn instead to a short-sleeved variety, or a polo, with some color and pattern. In the right cut and style, it’ll keep you on trend and also sharp — just about all you can ask for from a piece of clothing.

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Tag / men’s polos