Tag / men’s style

by Beau H.

#OOTD: Here’s What to Wear to Your First Spring Party

Is there such a thing as “opening weekend” when it comes to spring or summer parties? Not quite, right? But when it’s in the air, you’ll feel it. When it’s time to head a friend’s balcony or backyard patio — or a rooftop bar — for a group get-together that involves, well, partying … you’ll know it. And that, my friends, is where you’re going to want to wear today’s #OOTD. For breezy spring style with a touch of polish and more than a bit of style, I’d say you can’t go wrong with updated staples like a classic indigo shirt, throwback-inspired chinos and, as ever, timeless leather sneakers. The key is looking for pieces that you might normally wear — like chinos and a short-sleeve shirt — and amping them up with cooler fits and better fabrics. These are pieces that are going to look stylish and crisp, yet decidedly cool (physically and metaphorically — no overheating here). Add in an investment-worthy leather watch from an enviable brand like Shinola, and you’ve got a look that pairs nicely with any weekend night — and maybe with your 9-to-5 grind, if you work in a more laidback environment. The point is, whether you wear this to your first spring party this weekend or to a Memorial Day shindig in a few weeks’ time, it’s just going to … well, work. For stylish partying, that is. Cheers!

An indigo shirt, historically inspired chinos and leather sneakers … perfect for knocking a few back, ehh?

    • The Shirt: Corridor NYC Raindrop Stripe Shirt, $185 — Cool stripes, a dressy-yet-casual indigo color and reliably tailored short-sleeve fit make this Corridor NYC shirt a big-time upgrade over a plain tee.
    • The Chinos: Abercrombie & Fitch Archive Collection Chino Pants, $98 — Modeled after chinos worn by JFK himself, these are the epitome of classic cool — and they happen to be perfect for breezy spring style in 2018.
    • The  Sneakers: Rancourt & Co. Carson Low Sneakers in Natural Chromexcel, $300 — You could also wear classic white sneakers or leather loafers, but the Rancourt & Co. Carson Low are more equipped to a bit o’ partying, what with their casual look and durable construction.
    • The Socks: Arvin Goods No-show Socks, $8 — Let’s stick with stylish and well-made no-show socks from Arvin Goods here, shall we? Easy choice.
    • The Belt: Line of Trade Veg-Tanned Leather Belt in Saddle, $55 — You need something to hold up your chinos, right? Might as well make it a stylish leather belt from Line of Trade.
    • The Watch: Shinola Guardian Watch, $675 — To which brand should you turn when you want to invest in a long-lasting, stylish timepiece? That answer is easy: Shinola.
    • The Essentials: CIVIC Merino Boxers in Black, $55 — Never skimp on the essentials — the CIVIC Merino Boxers are an essential investment in a quality basic.
    • The Sunglasses: Raen Optics Remmy 52 Sunglasses, $134.98 — Whether your plans call for a rooftop round or a backyard BBQ, the exceedingly stylish Raen Optics Remmy 52 Sunglasses belong on your face.

Have you opened up your tab at the bar yet? Or grabbed a six-pack to head to that party? Before the fun begins, you assuredly can’t go wrong with throwing on a Corridor NYC shirt, complemented by chinos in a breezy, classically cool fit. The rest of the pieces in our partygoing ensemble, from the durable Rancourt & Co. Carson Low sneakers to the nearly indispensable Shinola Guardian Watch, are going to put you a cut above the rest compared to your fellow partygoers (while fun, I’d say they’re not as stylish as you … unless they read this  blog). A stylish leather belt from Line of Trade is but one essential accessory to keep handy — whether the sun is high in the sky or just setting, the Raen Optics Remmy 52 Sunglasses  are an affordable and downright cool accessory choice. Throw in no-show socks (made sustainably by Arvin Goods), plus the exceedingly comfortable CIVIC Merino Boxers, and you’ve got yourself a full look that’s guaranteed to turn heads (for the better) at your next spring or summer party. Be sure to get me a beer when you head to the bar, OK? Deal.

That’s all for today’s #OOTD. Thanks for reading!

-Beau

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by Beau H.

#OOTD: How to Dress for A Casual Spring Weekend

Style is all about dressing in a way that stays true to yourself — and in a way that’s true to the situation, right? Right. There’s no sense in wearing a suit to the ballpark, for instance. The best style moves — from the classic Oxford shirt to the perfect pair of everyday denim — nail that tricky balance of classic-yet-versatile style, while working in any situation. And so it is with today’s #OOTD — we’re talking a specific situation (in this case, an easygoing spring weekend) and we’re talking picks that should fit right in with your wardrobe if you’re the kind of guy who values casual, laidback style with just a bit of retro cool. That’s what I call staying true to yourself, ehh? Spring is a time to shed extra layers and take it easy, so we’re stepping out in retro-inspired high-top sneakers, a classic leather watch and — perhaps most crucially — an ultra-cool short-sleeve shirt for the season. All of it adds up to an outfit that’s appropriate for a park picnic, a zoo visit, a stroll through an outdoor art fair or a visit to your favorite brewery … maybe all in one day? If you’ve got thoughts on this outfit, let me know via The Style Guide Facebook page or Twitter. Cheers!

Layering a stylish short-sleeve shirt with an easygoing tee and high-tops — that’s all there is to it!

The Shirt: Portuguese Flannel El Dorado Shirt, $125 — The purveyors of your favorite flannel shirts for the cold weather turn their attention toward a retro-inspired short-sleeve shirt — get yours now.

The Tee: Flint and Tinder Slub Tee in White, $25.98 — Are we layering a short-sleeve shirt over a tee? Heck yes, we are. This Flint and Tinder Slub Tee has a bit of a similar feel to something Armie Hammer might have worn in “Call By Your Name,” I’d say.

The Denim: Todd Snyder Made in L.A. Natural Indigo Selvage, $248 — Is this a pricey pair of light wash denim? It sure is. But Todd Snyder makes some of the very best denim around, easily. Roll these atop your sneakers or wear them with just one cuff. Speaking of sneakers …

The Sneakers: Rancourt & Co. Carson Mid, $185 — Made-in-America high-tops like these spring-ready Rancourt & Co. sneakers are tough to come by — these should stand up with ease to bar crawls and park strolls alike.

The Socks: Anonymous-ism Boucle Mix Socks, $12 — While you could go with no-show socks here, these Anonymous-ism socks feature a neutral color and fabric that’s not too heavy — both spring must-haves.

The Belt: Filson Leather Belt, $85 — We’ve featured this Filson leather belt in a past #OOTD entry, and with good reason — it’s a dependable, stylish addition to your accessories lineup.

The Watch: Jack Mason Field Camp Watch, $195 — The Jack Mason Field Camp Watch is the timepiece you need for a spring weekend — it’s got just enough sharp style and just enough rugged appeal to go anywhere.

The Essential: ManCan 128oz. Picnic Keg, $44.98 — Is the ManCan Picnic Keg an essential? Well, only if you fancy having a park picnic … which I’d wager you do!

This outfit can go anywhere you go on a casual spring weekend — it’s pieces like slim light wash denim and those durable, retro-inspired Rancourt & Co. sneakers that get the job done when it comes to laidback style for the season. Layering a  retro-inspired short-sleeve shirt underneath a Flint and Tinder Slub Tee is also a slightly unexpected style move that gives this outfit some versatility and visual interest — it’s the kind of look that’s going to look particularly at home lounging on a patio with a margarita (or your drink of choice, that is to say). To stay on time through it all, the rugged style of the Jack Mason Field Camp Watch should help out admirably, while the ManCan Picnic Keg — funny name and all — is the essential to bring with you to a park picnic or a backyard party.  And the great thing about this outfit is the freedom of choice — you can rock it with or without the Anonymous-ism socks, for instance. So, where will this #OOTD take you this spring? What picks would you add or subtract? Let me know in the comments below!

Thanks for reading,

-Beau

by Beau H.

Style Suggestion: Upgrade Your Corduroys in Style for Fall

If the thought of corduroy trousers makes you think of your stuffy college professor or hideously dated, baggy pairs of pants, think again. In fact, today’s Style Suggestion here on the blog is going to tell you all about how to upgrade your corduroys in a big, big way this season. Perhaps you’ve already got a pair of slim corduroy pants in your closet, which is all well and good. And if you don’t, allow me to point you toward your new favorite pair of corduroys — seriously. The key, as with most #menswear challenges we dive into at The Style Guide, revolves around reaching for a pair with a more modern cut and a sharp color. Think a pair that’s more like black jeans than old-school corduroys. That way, you can wear them to the office and to happy hour afterward without missing a beat (or feeling out of place). Whic is to say, the Citizens of Humanity Bowery Standard Jeans are the way to go, what with a tailored fit and a dark shale color. We’ll show you how to wear ’em below. Don’t let the name fool you — these feature the cut of denim and the traditional texture of a stylish pair of corduroy pants. And y’know what’s even better? They match up handsomely with all kinds of men’s fall style essentials, from a slim cotton sweater to rugged suede boots.  Have questions? Get in touch with me on Twitter. Happy fall!

The Corduroys: Citizens of Humanity Bowery Standard Jeans in Shale — $198

Citizens of Humanity

Cut like a jean and packed with the serious style of a great pair of corduroys.

Are the Citizens of Humanity Bowery Standard Jeans pricey? For sure. Are they a somewhat rare pair of corduroys that look like a jean and harness just a bit of edgy style? They are. That makes the Bowery Standard Jeans a great pick-up if you want a stylish pair of corduroys. Again, don’t let the name fool you — the Bowery Standard will work as smoothly with a herringbone blazer as they will with a rugged henley and a selvedge denim jacket.

The Sweater:  BANKS River Knit Sweater in Desert Mist — $70

BANKS

A fall-ready sweater with neat layering potential from BANKS.

Your top layer here is really what’s going to set this outfit apart. A stylish striped cotton sweater such as the BANKS River Knit Sweater has plenty going for it, from the fall-ready color and rich red stripes to the classic crewneck silhouette. At least to your Style Guide author, that means you can layer it under a navy blazer at the office or throw it on underneath a tough, classic denim jacket. As luck would have it, we’ve got an option for you coming up.

The Shirt:  Line of Trade Oxford in Light Blue — $70

An easy-to-style option for any situation — especially with slim corduroys this fall.

With a pair of slim corduroys and a classic crewneck sweater, your shirting options are plentiful. You could reach for a slim chambray shirt for more rugged appeal, or throw on the Line of Trade Oxford Shirt for style that’s just a bit more office-ready. And if you follow this site, you know that we previously recommended Line of Trade in our guide on how to wear an Oxford shirt  — so the styling options for this classic Oxford are certainly abundant this season.

The Jacket: Taylor Stitch Long Haul Jacket in ’68 Cone Mills Selvage — $188

Taylor Stitch

The perfect fall jacket — rugged, easy to layer and ready to break in with slim corduroys.

Promised you we’d get to a rugged denim jacket in this style suggestion, right? Again, outerwear makes a big difference when styling corduoy pants. A tough denim jacket from the master menswear purveyors at Taylor Stitch adds a touch of rugged appeal to this ensemble — it’s suitable to wear to the office on a casual Friday, or to head out to grab brews at your favorite bar. And the thing with the Long Haul Jacket is that it only gets better the more it’s worn.

The Boots: Wolverine Original 1000 Mile Boots in Roughout Suede — $299.98

Wolverine 1000 Mile Boots

A knockout pair of boots from Wolverine.

Folks, these might just be your new go-to fall boots. Whether you wear these rugged fall boots with your Citizens of Humanity corduroys as mentioned above or wear ’em with anything else in your closet, the Wolverine Original 1000 Mile Boots are going to stand out quite stylishly. Particularly with this outfit, the 1000 Mile Boots add fall-ready texture and a nice contrast to the dark corduroy pants; they’ll work at the office on a laidback fall day, and they’re surely ready for your next tailgate.

The Watch: Farer Kingsley Watch — $357.50

Best men's casual watches

A sleek watch that offsets the rugged nature of this ensemble.

Ahh, yes — just what the doctor ordered. A refined, versatile and supremely stylish leather watch from Farer.  Your watch is yet another area that can make or break an outfit — given the rugged denim jacket and tough Wolverine suede boots, this outfit definitely leans more casual. And yet, the handsome Farer Kingsley Watch adds a touch of minimal, sleek style. The 39.5mm case diameter also means the Farer Kingsley Watch  leans dressier  while standing out quietly– all the better if you’re looking to wear this ensemble to the office.

The Socks: Necessary Anywhere Four Sock in Navy — $18
Stylish men's socks

A distinctive pattern and a sharp color will help these socks pop nicely underneath your corduroys.

In the way of style upgrades, stylish socks surely need to be on your mind — right? And that’s certainly the case when stepping out in slim corduroys this fall. These Necessary Anywhere socks are just that: Necessary anywhere. Get it!? At any rate, the neat pattern is subtly stylish, while the blue color plays nicely off the darker color of the corduroys and the blue indigo Taylor Stitch denim jacket. Ya feel me on that?
The Belt: Line of Trade Veg-Tanned Leather Belt — $40 (When Signing Up for Bespoke Post)

The perfect leather belt to stand up to tough suede boots and textured corduroys.

So, your belt. We leave no stone unturned here when it comes to essential men’s accessories, got that? Right on. A well-made, simply designed and stylish leather belt is a necessary finishing touch when stepping out in any season — and this rugged Line of Trade leather belt stands up to the visual heft and texture of those Citizens of Humanity corduroys and your tough Wolverine 1000 Mile boots.
The Bag: Whipping Post Large Leather Messenger Bag — $310
Whipping Post

The last messenger bag you’ll need to buy? Very likely. Very likely indeed.

Whether you wear your Citizens of Humanity corduroys to the office or for a day hopping from bar to bar, you’re going to need a way to haul your everyday carry. And the Whipping Post Large Leather Messenger Bag delivers the goods — and then some. This ridiculously well-made, handsome and durable leather bag has more than enough space for office essentials, and it’s certainly got plenty of space for off-duty essentials.

As we covered above, the Citizens of Humanity corduroys are a neat way to upgrade your trousers this fall. These slim corduroys are closer to rock-inspired slim black denim than stuffy corduroys of years past, and that’s great news if you’re looking to team them with rugged outerwear like a Taylor Stitch denim jacket or durable fall boots (you certainly can’t go wrong with the Wolverine 1000 Mile Boots, right?).  And the Citizens of Humanity corduroys  give you plenty of layering options on your top half, from a versatile chambray shirt to a classic Oxford shirt and a stylish striped cotton sweater (preferably from BANKS).  And if you want to offset all of those timeless pieces with a bit of a sleek edge, the remarkable Farer Kingsley Watch is the timepiece to throw on. Lastly, don’t forget patterned socks and a surprisingly stylish leather belt  — both picks are going to work well this fall no matter how many times you wear corduroys.

So, I think that about covers it — any questions or comments? Let me know on The Style Guide Facebook page!

Thanks for reading,

-Beau

 

by Beau H.

#OOTD: The Best Way to Wear a Flannel Shirt This Fall

Gather ’round, Style Guide readers — today’s #OOTD tackles a favorite topic when it comes to rugged men’s fall style: How to wear a flannel shirt this season. If flannel shirts call to mind the mid-aughts boom of American workwear, well, they should — they were a key piece of #menswear then, and the right flannel shirt is just as relevant now. Today’s shirt of choice, the Filson Vintage Flannel Shirt, channels just the vibe you want when wearing a flannel shirt. It’s got all the trappings of a classic piece, but it’s just a bit more modern. With a cool black-and-cream color, it’s less outdoors-y and instead, just …  a cool shirt. And the way you wear your new favorite flannel shirt is going to make all the difference, too. Pair it with rugged style essentials like a premium slim henley and textured Bedford cord pants, and you’re going to shake off all those “urban lumberjack” connotations. Fear not, though — we’re still finishing off this #OOTD with rugged leather boots.  I know this much: You can make this outfit work for you at a football tailgate, at a bonfire or on a brewery tour — and that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Let me know your thoughts over on Twitter when you get the chance, if you so please.

Best men's flannel shirts

Think again about how you wear your flannel shirt — this Filson shirt bucks the trend and looks great.

The Flannel Shirt: Filson Vintage Flannel Work Shirt in Black and Cream, $145 — The centerpiece of many a stylish and rugged fall outfit, Filson gets the color and classic fabrication just right with its Vintage Flannel Work Shirt.

The Henley: Billy Reid Speckled Henley, $155.98 —  Yet another critical fall layer, this made-in-Italy Billy Reid henley is a premium upgrade over a standard thermal henley — perfect for layering with a Filson flannel.

The Pants: BANKS Roll Bedford Cord Jean, $75 — Rather than reaching for dark blue denim, reach for the slim, fall-ready BANKS Bedford Cord Jean — textured, unique and slim-fitting.

The Boots: Wolverine Original 1000 Mile Boots in Roughout, $299.98 (When On-Sale) — For fall, Wolverine has taken its 1000 Mile Boots and upgraded them in a rich, seasonally ready roughout leather. Perfect.
The Belt: Sturdy Brothers Everyday Belt in Chestnut, $80 — To stand up to your sturdy leather boots and a rugged flannel shirt, a tough leather belt from Sturdy Brothers is just what the doctor ordered.
The Watch: Pantor Sea Lion Watch, $424.98— This outfit is packed with fall-ready neutrals, so shake up your wrist game with the striking, durable Pantor Sea Lion Watch. It’s the ideal, rugged watch to wear to a football game or a bar crawl.
The Bag: Topo Designs Mountain Briefcase, $119.98 — Whether you head to a house party or out on a day trip, the sturdy, well-made Topo Designs Mountain Briefcase is more casual (and durable) than the briefcase moniker implies.
The Beard Balm: Upstate Stock Willowemoc Beard Balm, $22 — Upstate Stock happens to be one of my favorite spots for menswear in Brooklyn — and they make a nice beard balm to tame your mane this season.
Are you sold yet on the versatile, rugged styling potential of the  Vintage Flannel Work Shirt from Filson? In a cool color scheme, it’ll work as a warm top layer over something as premium and understated as the Billy Reid Speckled Henley. And when you team up that combo with a crisp set of trousers like the BANKS Roll Bedford Cords, you’re set for casual fall excursions from the city to the country and back. Don’t step foot outside this fall without tough leather boots, either — I’d strongly urge you to invest in the stellar Wolverine 1000 Mile Boots — are you with me there? A durable, weather-ready watch like the Pantor Sea Lion Watch is going to fit right in with the tough nature of this outfit, and the Topo Designs Mountain Briefcase is standing at the ready if you need a new fall go-to to haul your everyday carry. So, I think we’re all set with today’s #OOTD. Thanks, as always, for reading!
-Beau

by Beau H.

The List: This Is All the Best Menswear to Shop for October

Alright, it’s fall now … isn’t it? While last month we talked about the best rugged gear to buy for early fall, we’re getting deeper into a season that’s simply an excellent time to be a fan of #menswear. If you read The Style Guide, you know that fall brings the potential for all kinds of fun, from layering with rugged overshirts to stepping out in stylish leather boots and simply enjoying all the season has to offer. And that’s quite a lot — tailgates, apple orchard trips, craft beer festivals … you name it. In today’s edition of The List, we’re covering the best gear to buy for fall, and there’s quite a lot to cover. Read on, shop away and let me know what you think over at The Style Guide Facebook page. Cheers.

 

SeaVees Legend Cordies Varsity Sneakers — $67.98

Corduroy in a pair of sneakers? Sure thing. SeaVees gets it right.

Your favorite classic sneaker brand — that’d be SeaVees — updates the Legend silhouette in fall-ready corduroy. Wear these with garment-dyed grey chinos and a light cotton sweater to head to class or the office.
BANKS River Knit Sweater in Desert Mist — $70

Cool stripes, a fall-ready color and an affordable price.

A stylish fall sweater for just $70? BANKS gets the balance of affordability and style just right with the casual, easygoing River Knit Sweater. Break this out to get coffee on a chilly fall morning, my friend.

Flint and Tinder 365 Pant in Slate — $98

With the cut of a five-pocket pant and a versatile color, the 365 Pant could become a fall go-to.

Want a pair of stylish casual pants that are cut like denim but look like chinos? Perhaps in a rich, neutral color? Flint and Tinder is here to help with the mobile, comfortable 365 Pant in Slate. Perfect when paired with classic suede chukkas.
CLAE Gregory Mid Sneaker in Latte Leather — $150

Richly crafted sneakers in a cool monochromatic shade — ideal for fall.

As seen in my Style Guide weekend trip to Nashville, the CLAE Gregory Mid is a handsome, retro-inspired pair of high-top sneakers that practically scream fall. Best worn with broken-in denim and a slim crewneck sweater.
BANKS Tombstone Jacket — $130

A rugged silhouette meets plenty of warmth and neat layering potential. Throw this over a striped henley and you’re good to go.

What are you going to wear with the BANKS River Knit Sweater? Why, the just-as-affordable, just-as-rugged BANKS Tombstone Jacket ought to do the trick. You get a warm sherpa lining and a neat faded blue color with the Tombstone Jacket, too.
WP Standard Large Messenger Bag — $310

A beautiful messenger bag with more than enough room for your everyday essentials.

If you want to upgrade your everyday carry in style, the gorgeous, finely crafted and heritage-quality WP Standard Large Messenger Bag is the one to buy. I’ve tested out this bag around Brooklyn as of late, and it’s held up wonderfully (check out my Instagram for more).
Marshall Stanmore Bluetooth Speaker — $349

A new favorite home addition, without a doubt.

So, it’s a fall Friday night. You’re kicked back around the backyard fire pit, IPA in hand, stylish cotton sweater on … and you’re listening to the Marshall Stanmore Bluetooth Speaker. Handsomely appointed and of excellent quality.

Saddleback Leather Rounded Leather Duffel Bag — $595

Saddleback Leather

A leather duffel bag of exceptional quality, more than ready for your next fall trip.

There’s quite a lot to say about the investment-level quality and standout design of this durable, beastly Saddleback Leather bag — but let me just say this: It could be the last duffel bag you ever need to buy.
Pantor Sea Lion Watch — $424.98

The perfect watch to offset, say, a rugged overshirt and broken-in denim.

If you’ve got other fall style essentials taken care of — pieces like a rugged henley and stylish leather boots — then a durable, stylish casual watch is the final missing piece of the puzzle. The Pantor Sea Lion would look excellent with a chunky shawl collar cardigan and American-made denim.
Relwen Waxed Snap CPO — $318

Search no more for a casual-yet-durable fall jacket — the Relwen Waxed Snap CPO is perfect.

If you’ve been wanting a do-it-all, rugged fall jacket — something to layer over an Oxford, a slim henley or a pocket tee — the durable nylon-cotton twill blend  Relwen Waxed Snap CPO is here. If I didn’t know better, I’d say the Waxed Snap CPO is a perfectly rugged outer layer to wear to head to your favorite brewery.
Flint and Tinder 10-Year Hoodie in Navy — $98

The perfect hoodie? Darn near. Flint and Tinder don’t disappoint when it comes to terrific basics.

While we’re talking rugged fall layering, let’s talk Flint and Tinder. Products like the well-made, classic Flint and Tinder 10-Year Hoodie certainly set the brand apart. Throw on the 10-Year Hoodie with a classic Oxford shirt and laidback denim to grab a weekend coffee or stroll through your favorite park.
Unmarked Rancher Derby Boot — $350

A handsome pair of boots finished with handmade toe embroidery.

While a pair of plain-toe, rugged leather boots are always welcome in matters of fall style, the Unmarked Rancher Derby Boot blends unique design touches with a classic silhouette for a nice change of pace.

With the Unmarked Rancher Derby Boot, we’re closing out this week’s edition of The List. Have any particular favorites from this round? The Relwen Waxed Snap CPO is my personal favorite, with plenty of rugged layering potential. Let me know your thoughts in the comments below!

Thanks for reading,

-Beau

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Wolverine Original 1000 Mile Boots

A classic in any season — especially fall.

Folks, let’s dive on into another Style Pick of the Week. More specifically, let’s talk rugged fall boots — as in the standout Wolverine Original 1000 Mile Boots. They’re investment-worthy and wish list-worthy, to say the least. Surely, if you’re a #menswear fan and have kept up with the industry, then you’ll recognize the durable, classic and resurgent style of the Wolverine 1000 Mile Boot. They were a trendy favorite in the mid-2000s as workwear and made-in-America goods surged back into play, but here’s the catch — Wolverine has made these boots a modern-day classic. Yes, the handsome, rugged and timeless silhouette of the Wolverine Original 1000 Mile Boot is just as relevant today. And what better season than fall to break out a pair of classic leather boots, after all? Wolverine has come up in the past on The Style Guide, specifically when talking the best boots for fall. Why not get ready for the season with the real deal, the Wolverine 1000 Mile Boot? Ehh? Yessir, Wolverine has nearly outdone themselves once again with this easily wearable, ridiculously well-crafted silhouette — and again, the time is just right to pick up the 1000 Mile Boots, my friends. And if I were you, I’d wear them to your next tailgate, on a bar crawl or to the office when paired up with a stylish fall blazer. They’re that good.

A tough silhouette that’s not too bulky — wearable with jeans or wool trousers in equal measure.

Like other Style Guide favorites — including the Original Chippewa Service Boots — this pair of 1000 Mile Boots is built to last right here in America. Wolverine uses uncompromising standards in crafting boots that can work with every single one of your fall menswear essentials, from rugged dark blue denim and a light blue denim shirt to faded black denim and a slim striped henley — and that’s only the beginning. The thing with the Wolverine Original 1000 Mile Boots  is that they’re only going to get better the more you wear them. Heck, the pattern of the boots itself is recreated from 1914, when the original 1000 Mile Boots  launched. And the leather?  It comes from Horween, perhaps the country’s foremost leather crafters. Throw in well-considered details like flat waxed laces and a leather outsole, and you’ve got a stunning pair of boots that can certainly last … beyond a thousand miles. See what I did there? At any rate, the craftsmanship and rugged appeal of the 1000 Mile Boots keeps going and going. OK, we’re done now. Thanks for reading!

Will the Wolverine Original 1000 Mile Boots be making their way into your footwear rotation this fall? How would you style the 1000 Mile Boots?

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: The Best Men’s Fall Boots, Portland and A Rugged Fall Jacket

Let’s turn the page on another week and hop right into the weekend here on The Style Guide. With another Friday Read comes another step closer toward fall. From football tailgates to breaking in new Chelsea boots all the way through to knocking back a rich IPA or an Oktoberfest beer at your local haunt, it’s a great time to prep for the season with perfectly rugged fall style. We’ve been talking a lot about those themes on the blog, from a new way to wear your denim jacket to the best men’s boots for fall, too.

If all of that #menswear doesn’t get you excited, I’m not sure what will! I know I’m excited to break out some new seasonal favorites — you can follow me on Instagram for more there. And in the meantime, you might want to tag along this coming weekend; I’ll be hitting the road in style once again, this time on a West Coast trip to lovely Portland! It’s coming on the heels of a big fall event at my day job, so the trip is perfectly timed for a little rest, relaxation, craft beer, fall menswear and of course, some live music. Who exactly is on the docket? Why, passionate, energetic and plain fun synth pop band Future Islands! Give their new album, “The Far Field,” a spin as you relax with your weekend coffee and a few prime pieces of men’s style news — which, as always, you can find below!

  • As we talked about earlier, it’s the perfect season for a great pair of stylish leather boots — right? Right. And my picks for The Manual covering the best leather boots for men might just take the cake. At least, that’s what I think! Read up now, folks.

  • Fancy getting out of the city on a hike? I know I could use a getaway every now and then — and if you’re more outdoors-minded than this city dweller, one of the best pairs of men’s hiking pants, as written about by yours truly, could very well be of interest. Get out there and get to it!

Alright, we’re keeping it short and sweet today — although if I had to make one last recommendation, it’d be to read this neat Esquire rundown of why you need a denim shirt in your fall men’s style rotation. Get it? Got it? Good.

Happy Friday and enjoy the weekend!

-Beau

by Beau H.

Online Shopping Picks: The Best Men’s Boots to Buy This Fall

My friends, it’s that time of the season again — time to talk about the best men’s boots to buy for fall. The season is, as I’ve said in past weeks, perhaps the best for us #menswear fans — particularly if you’re a fan of rugged fall style essentials. We get to break out our favorite layers, from a slim denim trucker jacket to a rugged striped henley, and better yet … we get to break out stylish leather boots aplenty all along the way. A great pair of leather boots can complement nearly any outfit, and I think you’ll find that the picks below do just that. A herringbone blazer and slim dark denim? Throw on a pair of classic leather chukkas. A casual striped henley and grey selvedge denim? Stylish suede boots ought to do the trick. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the below picks.  Again, the right pair of leather boots  — affordably priced, well-made and supremely stylish — can take you from football tailgate to bar crawl and back, with a week of work in between, of course. So, start checking a few items off your men’s style wish list this season; I know I’ve got a few more picks to add to mine. Follow along on Instagram for real-time style updates, and let me know how we’re doing over at The Style Guide Facebook page.

#1. Original Chippewa 6-Inch Service Boot in Crazyhorse — $270
Original Chippewa

A not-too-bulky pair of rugged fall boots featuring durable construction and great looks.

Believe you me, it’s tough to play favorites when it comes to rugged leather boots for the fall season — but Original Chippewa just might take the cake when it comes to the  brand’s 6-Inch Service Boot. With a rugged silhouette that’s not too bulky — plus premium construction and a quality price — the 6-Inch Service Boot is darn near the whole package. Wear it with your favorite pairr of dark denim and a black moto jacket for edgy weekend fall style.

#2.  Hudson Shoes Elmore Boot in Black — $270

A sleeker, modern combat boot with plenty of style to burn.

Fancy something a little more sleek and less rugged? Hudson Shoes has what you’re looking for when it comes to the Elmore Boot. With the look of a classic combat boot, the Elmore Boot should lend itself well to rock n’roll-ready outfits — think slim, faded grey denim and a stylish graphic tee. The slick black color also lends itself to dressier pairings — if you’ve got a tan or grey herringbone suit in your rotation, the Hudson Shoes Elmore Boots are the boots with which to wear it.

#3.  Astorflex Bootflex in Dark Khaki — $190
Astorflex Bootflex

A rugged-yet-comfortable pair of lace-up boots.

Long a favorite around these parts for blending sustainability and great looks, Astorflex has been making — in recent months, anyways — what could just be your new favorite pair of boots — the Astorflex Bootflex in Dark Khaki.  Finished with a natural rubber sole for comfort and done up in a versatile shade of deep tan, the Astorflex Bootflex should work quite stylishly for plenty of casual fall outings — from the pumpkin patch to your next football tailgate.
#4. Red Wing Iron Ranger Boot in Harness — $300

As good as it gets — the legendary Iron Ranger Boot from Red Wing. Bravo, folks!

As legendary a pair of fall boots as it gets, Red Wing absolutely delivers the goods when it comes to its lauded Red Wing Iron Ranger Boot. Blame it on the Americana craze of the mid-aughts, but the Iron Ranger Boot has taken on a life of its own — and with good reason. It’s a ridiculously rugged, stylish and wearable boot that’ll break in beautifully over time. What’s not to love about that? A job well-done to Red Wing on this one.

#5.  Hudson Shoes Leiwston Chukka — $110

A sleek pair of chukka boots, made with versatile style in mind.

We’ll throw some classic leather chukka boots in the mix this time, just for fun (wink, wink). As first seen in our Style Pick of the Week series, the Hudson Shoes Lewiston Chukka blends a truly excellent price with quality craftsmanship and versatile style. These stylish leather chukka boots — this pair is an admittedly popular seller — can team with nearly anything in your wardrobe, from a worsted wool navy suit, a pair of slim grey denim or a faded pair of blue jeans.

Honorable Mention: Astorflex Greenflex Rough in Sand — $150

An updated take on the Astorflex Greenflex — the durable, treaded sole is a key point of differentiation.

As previously seen in this site’s See Now, Buy Now series, the Astorflex Greenflex Rough is a recent addition to the brand’s line of stylish and sustainably made boots (but you know all about those already). And the Greenflex Rough updates the classic suede chukka in a few crucial ways, starting with the durable sole featuring a treaded grip. It’s a neat tweak on a pair of boots that’ll work with broken-in denim, olive chinos or burgundy corduroys this season.

That wraps up our take on the season’s best boots, folks. What did you think? Any particular favorites on this list? Again, the versatility and rugged appeal of a pair of boots like the Astorflex Greenflex Rough can’t be emphasized enough — and a classic pair of tough leather boots like the Red Wing Iron Ranger certainly deserves its place on this list, too. Don’t forget the casual, versatile look of the Astorflex Bootflex, too — that’s one pair that you can put a lot of miles on this fall. And if it’s sleek fall style you prefer, the Hudson Shoes Elmore Boots are the ones to buy. Let me know in the comments below or on Twitter as to your favorite style — see you out there this fall!

-Beau

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Harry’s Essential Travel Shave Kit

Harry's Grooming

Everything you need for a great shave — at home or on the road, courtesy of Harry’s.

Ever been stuck on the road without the means of getting the perfect shave you might be used to back home? Well, the Harry’s Essential Travel Shave Kit solve that problem for you. Now, I like to take care of my beard using simpler methods, so I haven’t personally broken out the Travel Shave Kit quite yet — but I can assure you that if Harry’s is the brand behind it, it’s gotta be good.  Having something so essential to carry with you is going to prove mighty effective as you dress for fall travel — and the Travel Shave Kit  also gives you an excuse to change up your stubble or beard for a new season. It’s everything you need to get a great shave, packed into a stylish dopp kit. The brand aims to be different, offering quality designs and a quality shave at a lower cost — in fact, $2 lower per blade than the big guys. That adds up in the long run — and the excellent blades & clean design are just part of what makes the Essential Travel Shave Kit so, well, essential for guys who hit the road frequently. And even if you don’t need to pack up the Travel Shave Kit every week, you still get even more bang for your buck (something we certainly love here at The Style Guide). In this case, Huckberry members get a gift card for four additional blades from Harry’s, in addition to the four that ship with the Travel Shave Kit. Oh, and those blades work hand-in-hand (blade-in-blade?) with the brand’s Winston copper-handled razor — your everyday shave, this is not.  That includes the bells and whistles it comes with — and in. Make sense?

Harry's

The brand’s copper-handled razor makes for a smooth and stylish shave.

Crucially, the Travel Shave Kit really is a full kit, seeing as it’s housed in a custom-made, water-resistant Harry’s dopp kit. What’s more, you get the brand’s famous shaving cream and post-shave balm included — seriously, is there anything the Travel Shave Kit can’t provide for the guy on the go? Well, OK … it can’t pack your stylish weekender bag. But other than that, it should be incredibly useful. After a long day on the road, it’s nice to freshen up with a crisp shave (says the guy with a full beard). At any rate, it’s tough to find something as thoughtfully designed and executed as the Travel Shave Kit — and at an excellent price, too. We’re talking under $50 for Harry’s Essential Travel Shave Kit— that’s blades, shaving cream and all. And the even better part? You can certainly use the gear from the Harry’s Essential Travel Shave Kit when you’re not on the road. The brand’s razors are an incredible value and incredible quality, or so I’m told. At any rate, the next time you pack up in style, your saving grace in terms of grooming essentials could be the Harry’s Essential Travel Shave Kit. We’re in the midst of a new season, so step your game up accordingly.

Do you have any experience with the Harry’s Essential Travel Shave Kit? Will you be taking the Travel Shave Kit  with you on the road this season?

by Beau H.

#OOTD: Wear This Black Denim Jacket for Early Fall

How are you prepping for fall? And what are we excited about when it comes to #menswear? For your Style Guide author, I’m personally excited about a return to rugged layering in particular — including a refresher on how to wear a black denim jacket. Taking slightly unexpected, edgy pieces and mixing them together is one of the small joys of the season — take, for instance, the Roark Revival denim jacket we’re talking about in today’s #OOTD. It’s got just enough cool design touches to set it apart from your typical denim jacket, from the unique chest pocket detailing to the faded black color. And crucially, a jacket like the Roark Revival HWY 41 Jacket is going to be the perfect way to step into fall. It makes for a great layer on chilly weekend days and week nights alike, and that edgy style is going to help you go everywhere from a rock concert to a bar crawl to a weekend coffee run. When paired up with other fall style essentials — including classic suede chukka boots and a rugged striped henley — you’re going to be able to take on everything from a weekend getaway to a casual date night out seriously. So, are you ready to learn about your new favorite denim jacket? Good. Then let’s go! Follow me on Instagram for more insider style tips, plus a dose of craft beer and live music.

Rugged Fall Style

A mix of edgy pieces — like the Roark Revival denim jacket — and classic offerings, like a rugged henley.

The Jacket: Roark Revival HWY 41 Denim Jacket, $79.98 — As discussed above, the affordably priced, well-crafted and uniquely edgy Roark Revival HWY 41 Jacket is the unexpected fall layering piece you didn’t know you needed — until now.

The Henley: Taylor Stitch Mercerized Merino Henley, $98 (When Signing Up for Bespoke Post) — When is it worth it to pay nearly $100 for a henley? When that rugged henley is made by Taylor Stitch.

The Pants: Original Penguin P55 Brushed Cotton 5-Pocket Pant, $89 — Want to shake things up from your typical rotation of slim blue denim  this fall? Reach for a pair of tailored cotton 5-pocket pants for a bit of high-low style.

The Boots: Hudson Shoes Corelli Suede Dip Dye Boots, $198 (When Signing Up for Bespoke Post)  — Want a pair of footwear that’s going to fit right in with the rock n’roll vibes of this ensemble? Suede chukka boots are going to be your best bet — Hudson Shoes knocked it out of the park with the Corelli Suede Dip Dye Boots.

The Socks: Arvin Goods Crew Socks (Three-pack), $30 — Sustainably made, understated socks are what Arvin Goods excels at making — these stylish crew socks fit the bill nicely.

The Belt: Sturdy Brothers Everyday Belt in Natural, $80 — Don’t forget about the small style details. Particularly when your outfit is packed with rugged basics, your belt should fall in that same category aesthetically. Sturdy Brothers gets it right with the Everyday Belt.

The Watch: Szanto Aviator Automatic Watch — $289 — Rugged good looks, tough durability and a subtly stylish design make the Szanto Aviator Automatic Watch the right timepiece to offset this outfit.

The Grooming Essential: Blind Barber 60 Proof Hair Wax, $18 — What if I told you for under $20, you could get a true men’s grooming essential to help complement this sharp look? Easy choice, right?

When the foundation of your outfit is the rugged, edgy and unique Roark Revival HWY 41 Jacket, it makes filling in the pieces around it pretty easy. And when those pieces happen to include a mix of high-low style essentials like brushed cotton pants and a rugged striped henley? Well, the only question now is where that outfit can take you.   Stylish, sharp footwear like the  Corelli Suede Dip Dye Boots are a great way to step into early fall thanks to their unique texture and versatility, while a tough timepiece like the Szanto Aviator Automatic Watch  is going to complement plenty of seasonally ready outfits. Remember to turn to durable, dependable brands like Sturdy Brothers to upgrade your accessories, and know that the little touches in terms of grooming (like using Baxter of California hair wax) are going to take your ensemble to the next level. So, what do you think of this #OOTD? Where would you wear the Roark Revival HWY 41 Jacket this fall? 

Thanks for reading, as always!

-Beau