September 3, 2017September 3, 2017 by Beau H.

See Now, Buy Now: Throw On The Flint and Tinder Stretch Denim Trucker Jacket For Rugged Fall Style

Men's Style
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The rugged good looks of a classic denim jacket, finished off with the stretch and comfort you need for all-day fall style.

There are certain items that instantly catch the eye of your Style Guide editor, writer and “creative director” — like the perfectly rugged Flint and Tinder Stretch Denim Trucker Jacket. Newly introduced by the folks at Huckberry, it’s yet another standout Flint and Tinder item you need to add to your fall wardrobe. Heck, that’s why we’re coming to you with a very rare Sunday See Now, Buy Now entry on the blog. Now, I know you’ve got other things on your Sunday to-do list, be it a stylish Sunday brunch, a day of yard work, a stroll through your favorite park or something in between. But simply put, the Flint and Tinder Stretch Denim Trucker Jacket delivers the goods. Without a doubt, this is a rugged denim jacket provides that elusive combination of comfort, versatility and style that’s so prized.

The Stretch Denim Trucker is made from mid-weight, inky blue cotton denim featuring two percent stretch for mobility. The jacket’s going to break in over time, making it a stylish complement to olive chinos and classic suede chukkas at this point in the season — and once you’ve worn the Stretch Denim Trucker throughout the fall, you can keep it handy to wear with burgundy corduroys and your favorite pair of leather boots in early winter (preferably layered under a classic field jacket or topcoat). In terms of hardware, the custom metal buttons feature an antique finish for classic style, while the Stretch Denim Trucker is also built with a longer, slimmer fit. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could even step out in a denim-on-denim look with Flint and Tinder’s All-American Washed Denim. Here’s the last word: The Flint and Tinder Stretch Denim Trucker Jacket is stylish and rugged enough to wear with a host of fall style essentials; heck, it’s even worth using a bit of your weekend downtime to pick this bad boy up right now.

Will you be adding the Flint and Tinder Stretch Denim Trucker Jacket to your fall wardrobe? How will you layer it?

September 2, 2017August 30, 2017 by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Rancourt & Co. Carson Low Sneakers

A fall-ready sneaker that blends high-quality construction and striking looks.

If you’ve clicked through the pages of The Style Guide recently, then you surely recognize Rancourt & Co. — and particularly, perhaps you recognize the Rancourt & Co. Carson Low. It’s the perfect pair of sneakers to wear to transition into fall; I don’t know much, but I’d bet you’ll agree. First seen in our #OOTD post on how to wear an Oxford shirt this fall, these handsome, rugged sneakers nearly check all the boxes when it comes to classic fall footwear. That’s no joke. While it’s nice to step into tried-and-true staples like suede chukka boots or leather work boots when the weather gets chilly, durable leather sneakers can work just as well from early September to early November. It’s especially helpful that in the case of the Carson Low, the fine folks at Rancourt & Co. have applied the same approach that makes the brand’s other footwear so great (Exhibit A: The 4-Season Ranger Moc). The brand got into making USA-made sneakers back in 2015, and they’ve amped up their approach this time around.

That means the upper on the Rancourt & Co. Carson Low starts with exceptionally high-quality Horween leather, a claim not many pairs of sneakers can boast. The Vibram Strighton outsole is another point of durable differentiation (say that five times fast). That construction ensures grip, traction and a visually interesting contrast from the Horween leather upper on the Rancourt & Co. Carson Low. It’s that blend of quality and style that makes the Carson Low so appealing — and certainly, worthy of an investment this season.

Roll your jeans now with the Carson Low, and then keep these sneakers around once we get into fall.

So, with a pair of sneakers this well-made and stylish, it begs the question: How can’t the Rancourt & Co. Carson Low work in a plethora of style situations? Classic dark denim and a slim grey crewneck sweater? Add these sneakers, plus a rugged leather watch. A slim herringbone blazer and grey corduroy trousers? The Rancourt & Co. Carson Low is a tremendous style move. A black denim jacket and grey jeans at a pub crawl? Sure thing, the Carson Low is up to the task. The rich brown leather, sturdy sole and handsome silhouette makes these sneakers timeless, versatile and durable. Finished off with leather laces, the Carson Low could just be your new favorite pair of sneakers this fall. Again, they’re an investment that’s worth it on the footwear front.

Will you be buying the Rancourt & Co. Carson Low for the fall season? How would you style these stellar sneakers? Let me know in the comments or on Twitter!

August 24, 2017September 9, 2017 by Beau H.

See Now, Buy Now: Add to Your Watch Collection with the Timex Waterbury Stainless Steel Dive Watch

One heck of a watch for the price — maybe one to buy right now, as it were?

One of the things that comes up a lot at The Style Guide (weekly? daily?) is the importance of buying quality, affordable and versatile #menswear pieces. From a classic Oxford shirt to a rugged henley to slim, American-made denim, that type of quality and wearability is out there — if only you know where to look. Such is the case with Timex, a brand that you might have glazed over in the past, one that now deserves a second, or third, look. And in the latest entry in our ongoing See Now, Buy Now series, we’re giving the rugged, essential Timex Waterbury Stainless Steel Dive Watch a close look — it’s among the best men’s casual watches to buy now, I can say that much. The Waterbury Stainless Steel Diver plays off the brand’s vintage-leaning, stylish Waterbury line — surely, you’ll recognize the rugged Timex x Red Wing Waterbury Chrono from the pages of this blog. The Waterbury Stainless Steel Diver is in a league of its own, starting with the standout price and carrying right on through to its handsome, subtly stylish and easily wearable aesthetic.

It’s a rugged men’s dive watch that gets the look right without a cluttered design. While it’s not exactly made for plunging into great depths in the ocean, it’s a daily watch that’s more than serviceable thanks to the classic durability for which Timex is known. For you and me both, that’s great news. And the better news? You can get it via Bespoke Post, purveyors of plenty more of your favorite #menswear. If there’s one watch to wear to the office with a classic navy blazer during the week while also teaming it with a rugged short-sleeve henley on the weekend, it’s the Waterbury Stainless Steel Diver. Folks, that type of affordable style can’t be emphasized enough. And a rugged stainless steel dive watch is the perfect piece to add a bit of toughness and visual interest to cold-weather outfits, too — perfect given that we’ll be into fall before you know it. With all that being said … I can’t recommend the Waterbury Stainless Steel Diver enough. That’s as true right now as it’ll be when fall hits.

Shop away, and thanks for reading!

-Beau

August 16, 2017July 26, 2017 by Beau H.

The List: Buy This #Menswear to Close Out The Summer

How’s your month been? Tough to believe we’re barreling through August, ehh? Fear not — we’ve got #menswear shopping to slow down the rush of summer and bolster your wardrobe (and lifestyle) in the process. Yes indeed, we’re talking about the best gear to buy right now. This week’s entry in The List series here at the old Style Guide takes us into new territory. Namely, we’re talking one of the best coffee makers to buy now — as sold by Bespoke Post, of course — plus a stylish navy blazer and perhaps your new favorite sneakers. But wait, there’s more! Really, that’s just the tip of the iceberg. How we doin’? Keep up with my #menswear adventures on Instagram or Facebook — I look forward to hearing all about your purchases of some of the best men’s gear around … wink, wink.

Astorflex Softflex Sneakers in Peanut — $170

Sneakers that blend craftsmanship, sustainability and style in equal measure.

Ever find a pair of sneakers that exemplify somewhat rugged craftsmanship and yet also look pleasingly casual and laidback? That’s the Astorflex Softlex for ya.

Corridor NYC Stretch Blazer — $295.98

A uniquely well-crafted, durable and mobile blazer.

Some classic men’s blazers out there make you take a second look — such is the case with the handsome, refined and yet mobile Corridor NYC Stretch Blazer. Handcrafted in the Big Apple, it’s a one-of-a-kind men’s blazer to wear to close out summer.

Craighill Wide Wall Pocket — $32

A neat way to store small goods and everyday essentials.

The Craighill Wide Wall Pocket is at once a neat bit of craftsmanship and also something that’s so simple … it’s as if someone should have thought of it sooner. Cross another item off in your search for stylish men’s home goods.

Wally Walker Piuma Sneakers in Navy OR Stone — $109.98

Yes, more sneakers. But these ones blend unique style with affordability.

A pair of stylish, classic sneakers in multiple colorways being offered for a little bit more than $100? Too good to be true. Not so with these crisp, simple Wally Walker Piuma Sneakers.

American Giant Premium Crew Tee — $36.50

othing too fancy about a well-made T-shirt — just quality.

Are you familiar with American Giant? They get a ton of credit for American-made gear ranging from henleys to nearly indestructible hoodies, but there’s no question that the brand’s simple, classic Premium Crew Tee gets the job done.

Hudson Made Morning Shift Body Wash — $28

Add this body wash to your daily routine — it’ll pay off.

Looking and feeling your best during the day often starts with the steps you take to get ready — and I’d wager that you’re going to want to include this crisp, masculine Hudson Made Morning Shift Body Wash in your routine.

Lum-Tec Combat B31 Bronze Automatic Watch — $899.99

An extraordinarily durable, tough watch.

Folks, believe me when I say this — Lum-Tec does NOT mess around when it comes to durable, rugged watches — and the Lum-Tec Combat B31 Bronze Automatic Watch is no exception. Yowza.

Bruer Cold Bruer Slow Drip Cold Brew Coffee Maker — $69.98

An innovative, dependable coffee maker.

Ahh, yes. Here’s the upgraded coffee maker we talked about. Specifically, this Bruer coffe maker specializes in cold brew — all the better to have around as these last hot summer days roll on by.

Mott and Bow Graham Denim Shirt in Medium Blue — $61.98

A crisp, quality denim shirt from Mott and Bow — tough to top.

We talked just a few weeks ago on this site about Mott and Bow denim shirts — and that’s why this handsome, refined-yet-casual and stylish denim shirt makes this version of The List.

This Is Ground Mini Tech Dopp Kit 2 in Cognac — $169

Pack this durable “dopp kit: with everything you need on the daily.

Hauling your everyday carry can be a tall order — but the handsome, pleasingly rugged and easy-to-use This Is Ground Mini Tech Dopp Kit makes your mission a whole heck of a lot easier.

Morning Culture La Playa Blanket — $34.98

Don’t underestimate a blanket that feels cozy AND looks great.

Is there such a thing as a stylish blanket? Of course there is — the Morning Culture La Playa Blanket. For your next camping trip or bonfire, bring along the La Playa Blanket.

Abercrombie and Fitch Langdon Slim Jeans — $39

Clean, sharp and very affordable — that’s new denim from Abercrombie and Fitch.

Last but certainly not least — and because you need slim jeans to wear with your Mott and Bow denim shirt — we’re focusing on the latest, new-and-improved denim line from Style Guide favorites Abercrombie and Fitch. Affordable and easy to wear to your next rock concert.

OK, how’d we do today? I simply can’t get enough of, among other stylish men’s gear picks, the extremely rugged and durable Lum-Tec Combat B31 Bronze Automatic Watch. Let me know how we did in the comments below — and let me know if you’ll be picking up a piece … or two … or three.

Happy shopping and thanks for reading!

-Beau

August 15, 2017August 14, 2017 by Beau H.

#OOTD: How to Layer Up for A Breezy Summer Night

Ready for today’s #OOTD? I hope you are — I sure am. Although we’re (sadly) getting down to the last few weeks of summer here, I assure you that today’s post is jammed with summer style essentials that still function well into the early fall. Growing up in Michigan, I loved going to bonfires with family and friends, or spending nights on a river or lake enjoying a S’more and taking in the simpler things in life — it’s tough to find time to do that in NYC. Yet, if youre’ lucky enough to have another bonfire or backyard BBQ coming up, there’s a chance that once the sun sets, things will get a bit chilly. Not “polar vortex” cold, but breezier nonetheless. And when that time comes, you want #menswear that works with you — not against you. Men’s style staples that are crisp-yet-casual, easy to wear and easy to layer are going to be critical. You certainly want to dress for the occasion — think of it like dressing for a summer BBQ, where you’re there for a great time and ready for anything (don’t forget the beer). Keep these essentials around, and you’ll be glad you prepared accordingly — among my favorite picks from this #OOTD, I sure do love the Life/After/Denim Awash Hoodie, and I think you’ll find it’s a perfect casual menswear essential. What about the rest of these picks? Read on, shop away and catch up with me on Instagram to see how I’m spending these last few weeks of summer.

Light, easygoing menswear staples for a breezy summer evening around a bonfire or at the beach.

The Hoodie: Life/After/Denim Awash Hoodie, $80 — The breezy, casual Awash Hoodie features an absolutely perfect blend of laidback style and premium quality. It doesn’t look half-bad if your date needs to borrow it, either.

The Tee: Flint and Tinder Slub Tee in White, $38 — What’s more American and summer-friendly than a classic white T-shirt? Not a lot. Flint and Tinder makes its Slub Tee with just the right amount of comfort and rugged appeal.

The Denim: Nudie Jeans Grim Tim, $140.98 — While you could easily reach for a pair of classic summer shorts, the light wash of the Nudie Jeans Grim Tim plays nicely off the dark blue Life/After/Denim sweater. Ya dig?

The Belt: Sturdy Brothers Everyday Belt in Natural, $80 — That perfect, rugged yet wearable everyday belt (pun intended here) can be quite tough to find. This handsome Sturdy Brothers belt should certainly do the trick, yeah?

The Sneakers: SeaVees Maslon Desert Boot, $82.98 — What better classic sneakers to slip into than a pair of well-made, affordably priced and easygoing SeaVees sneakers?

The Socks: CHUP Labdien Socks, $16 — Cool, casual style calls for rolled light wash denim, classic white sneakers and stylish men’s socks with enough personality to speak for themselves after you’ve ditched your sneakers.

The Watch: Komrade Urban Diver Watch, $429 — There’s no better way to cap off an outfit filled with breezy, casual staples than by throwing on a tough-yet casual, rugged dive watch — right? Yes indeed — and Komrade surely makes an investment-worthy timepiece.

The Essential: Orange Vessel Co. Stoneware Growler, $68.99 — Craft beer delivered in a stylish, durable growler — definitely an essential for your next bonfire. This one from Orange Vessel Co. is pleasing, well-made and easy to transport.

When we talk layers and essential, casual men’s style, I’d say a piece like the Life/After/Denim Awash Hoodie makes perfect sense for a breezy summer night around a campfire or at a cabin on a lake. It’s a reliable, easygoing piece to slip on over a well-made, classic white T-shirt from Flint and Tinder — you’ll get a lot of mileage out of that combo as long as you step into versatile, slim light wash jeans. And on the accessories front, don’t skimp when it comes time to put on a rugged dive watch or load up a durable growler full of your favorite beer. Sneaker-wise, I’d say that classic SeaVees sneakers are always in play — particularly for kicking back on a patio with good friends and family. What’s on your #menswear list when it comes time to dress for a shindig in late summer? Let me know on Twitter or in the comments below — thanks for reading!

-Beau

August 14, 2017July 23, 2017 by Beau H.

Style Guide Recommends: Step into Classic Astorflex Footwear

Classic, stylish and easy-to-wear chukka boots via Astorflex — more than deserving of an entry in this ongoing series, right?

OK — step on up and let’s get started with another edition of Style Guide Recommends, our monthly look into what you should be wearing, shopping, reading … the whole deal and then some. Sounds good, right? Our last feature told you all about why you should be shopping Bespoke Post — monthly purveyors of “Boxes of Awesome” and plenty of other excellent #menswear. Also an advertiser on this site, I would confidently recommend Bespoke Post either way. And today’s latest entry tells you all about Astorflex — Italian-made crafters of the classic suede boots to buy now, and plenty more beyond that. If you peruse the pages of this site from time to time, the brand should (hopefully) jump out at you. The brand makes all of its stylish men’s footwear with careful attention to detail in northern Italy, then sells ’em at excellent prices — as simple as that. I personally love my Astorflex suede chukka boots, and I break them out as often as I can (follow me on Instagram to see exactly how I style them). With that being said… why are they the right brand for you, and why are they the focus of this week’s #menswear entry? Allow me.

Sneakers that blend craftsmanship, sustainability and style in equal measure.

It can be all too easy to get sucked into the cycle of buying clothing that looks good just because it … well, looks good. The fine team at Astorflex goes beyond that, though. The brand makes it stylish footwear sustainably — something that’s tough to come by in the industry, it seems (looking at you, fast fashion retailers). That means that everything from the well-crafted Astorflex Softflex sneakers to durable Astorflex Chelsea boots are made with responsible construction and premium European leather that’s aged in an all-natural water, oak bark and powdered mimosa mix for 30 days. That creates a supple, soft suede that matches up perfectly with crepe rubber soles — the result is a classic pair of desert boots (or sneakers, or rugged Chelsea boots) that look great and feel incredible. And when I say incredible, I mean that Astorflex suede chukkas in particular are comfortable enough to be worn with just stylish no-show socks (finished off with slim light wash denim and a classic Oxford, I should add). Too good to be true? Not in the slightest. And in addition to comfort and style, Astorflex also offers plenty of versatility throughout its line.

Here’s your next pair of suede chukkas — according to this author.

Take the Astorflex Greenflex— you’re getting a casual and easygoing suede chukka, a perfect multi-season boot. It’s ready to team with everything from a rugged short-sleeve henley and faded dark denim in the spring and summer to a slim topcoat and perhaps wool trousers in the fall or early winter months (certainly, before the first polar vortex hits). And if you’re more of a sneakerhead, look no further than the finely crafted, sharp and visually interesting Astorflex Softflex sneaker. This one sneaker that takes the principles of time-honored footwear and applies it to a silhouette that could work with light wash denim and a classic pocket tee or your new favorite Oxford and slim chino shorts.

A well-made, tough pair of Astorflex boots — ready for just about anything.

And lest we forget, the brand also introduced the rugged, tough and wearable Astorflex Bootflex, a lace-up boot that applies that same quality craftsmanship and versatile style. Wear the Astorflex Bootflex with everything from tobacco-colored cotton chinos in the early fall to grey denim in the spring — they’ll work in equal measure for a weekend coffee date or your next music festival. Last but certainly not least, it’s imperative that you keep the Astorflex Bitflex Chelsea Boot in mind as you consider potential wardrobe upgrades. Another comfortable and surprisingly lightweight boot, these sleek, stylish Chelsea boots would do well with dark black denim as you figure out how to dress for a rock concert, and they’ll add a bit of edge to a crisp white Oxford and grey cotton chinos in a spring work week ensemble. How’s that for one brand that can do it all? Definitely not bad.

So, to recap. It can be tough to find a brand that does it all — from blending sustainability and style to crafting well-made, versatile silhouettes, Astorflex hits the nail on the head. The brand’s craftsmanship is apparent, and it starts with that premium European leather and attention to detail. And the resulting styles? Excellent and nearly impossible not to wear well. Try the Astorflex Bootflex out with everything from grey selvedge denim and a blue Oxford to dark denim and a tough henley. Or, pair the more laidback Astorflex Softflex sneaker with your favorite shorts come summer time. The rest of the year, I’d step into the Astorflex Greenflex or a dependable pair of Astorflex Chelsea boots. Again, keep in mind that the brand is offering up all of this at great prices — starting at $145 and topping out at $190. Hopefully, you see now why they made our Style Guide Recommends series — agreed? Good deal.

Let me know what you think of the brand in the comments section below, or follow me on Twitter for daily style dispatches.

Thanks for reading!

August 11, 2017August 11, 2017 by Beau H.

The Friday Read: Lollapalooza 2017, Kinfolk and Gear Patrol Field Guides

What a whirlwind week we’ve had here at The Style Guide. And by we, well, I just mean me — that’s a new one, right?? At any rate, time’s flown by since the last Friday Read — more specifically, two full days at Lollapalooza 2017 were among my adventures in Chicago last week! From dining at the tasty Public House downtown to strolling through the massive and jam-packed Millenium Park to enjoying stellar sets by The Killers, Sylvan Esso and alt-J — to name a few — it was a truly banner weekend. I’m thankful to have had some outstanding music festival adventures this summer, from Panorama NYC to Governors Ball, and my Lollapalooza trip packed in as much #menswear, gourmet bites and craft beer that I could possibly handle. If you haven’t made the trip to Lollapalooza, I’d absolutely recommend it — the chance to take in a great festival in a great city like Chicago is second to none.

But when it comes to the home front, it’s been a busy week regardless — if you haven’t been following along, you best catch up — ehh? On Wednesday, we talked about the essentials to bring to a summer barbecue — preferably, the one you’re going to tomorrow afternoon — there’s still time! We also offered up one of my favorite #OOTD series pieces on this site to date, as this week’s post tackled how to wear a rugged henley this summer. Again, what’s not to love about a slim short-sleeve henley and rugged essentials like a stylish leather watch? Nothing, that’s what. And before we take off for the weekend, we have a plethora of men’s style news for you below — with a dash of music thrown in for good measure. See you out there this weekend, yeah? Check out my Instagram (and Instagram Stories!) for more.

Want to snag one last (final last) eye-catching T-shirt to rock in these last few weeks of summer? You might want to check out what Kinfolk is doing with a new line of graphic tees. Featuring a variety of designs — including the crisp Kinfolk 2017 Tee in White, these shirts mix in playful designs and colors with bold questions (“Ten years from now, will your kids remember what all the fuss was about?”). It’s a neat way to shake up your T-shirt rotation — although we all know there’s nothing wrong with a classic men’s T-shirt, these are still a worthy option.

While we’re talking shopping, we just launched yet another new Style Guide series here on the blog. The good news is, entries one and two are up and running in our See Now, Buy Now series. It covers, in short, a quick recap of one standout #menswear item to buy now — from Beckett Simonon’s stylish wingtip boots to the perfect Oxford for fall, I’m excited to offer up plenty of options for ya to shop when it comes to the best men’s gear. After all, “see now, buy now” is a big pillar of the fashion world — why not bring it here?

Now, we just talked in last week’s Friday Read about the launch of the exciting (and no doubt tasty) Gear Patrol Beer Week. The publication continues to build on that beer-themed focus with the launch of the first-ever Gear Patrol Field Guide this week — and man, am I excited. It’s a deep dive into all the craft beer that you can possibly read — and dream — about. Oh, and it’s condensed into one handy guide for under $10. I’ll tell you this: You can expect more recommendations to pick up the Gear Patrol Field Guide in the coming days and weeks, that much is true.
Since we’re on the gear front, why not hop on over to GearMoose to read my latest long-format feature for the esteemed digital publication? Yes indeed, that’d have to be my roundup of the best pilot watches for men. There’s something in that list for everyone, from picks that lean dressy and sharp to watches that are beastly, rugged and flight-ready. Happy reading!

That’ll do it for this week’s Friday Read. If you need me tonight, I’ll be at the Music Hall of Williamsburg enjoying a great rock show by BK indie rockers Slothrust. See you out there?

-Beau

August 9, 2017July 20, 2017 by Beau H.

Online Shopping Picks: The Grilling Gear You Need for A Summer Barbecue

Let’s step outside of the menswear world for a second (well, halfway out). Looking to throw one last summer BBQ? Or at least one more? That’s what we’re talking about today on The Style Guide. Why the switch from our beloved #menswear to something a little grittier and gastronomically inclined? Well, the world’s not all about men’s style, for one. And if you’ve poked around on some of your favorite men’s lifestyle sites (like this one, maybe!), you’ll realize that plenty of these places — particularly our Style Guide pals Bespoke Post and Huckberry — stock a heck of a lot of effective, functionally rugged grilling gear and some tasty culinary staples, to boot. And if you read this blog, you already know how to dress for your next barbecue — no need to worry about that. So with that being said, I’ve compiled it all into one handy men’s shopping guide for you — from a durable grilling apron to a tough backyard grill, you’ll find it in the list below. And if you’re not the guy manning the grill? At least you”ll be prepared with other backyard essentials like a stylish Bluetooth speaker — right? Have questions for me related to other essential men’s gear picks? Find me on Twitter, and leave a missive in the comments as needed. Fire up that grill and get to work!

Editor’s note: Portions of this post use affiliate links, from which a small commission might be earned. Thanks for supporting brands that support The Style Guide!

The Grill: PK Grills PK360 Grill and Smoker with Rib Rack — $799.98

A highly functional, highly durable grill with a stainless steel rib rack built right in.

Start with what’s important, right? You need a dependable grill at the center of the action — and it helps if it’s got built-in functionality going for it. The PK Grills PK360 is “nearly indesctructible,” and it features a stainless steel rib rack built right in. It’s a marked changed aesthetically from other grills you might be used to using, and that’s not all bad — you’ve got more options with the PK Grills PK360, and a heck of a lot of value included.

The Tunes: AudioPro T3 Portable Bluetooth Speaker — $249

A handsome, portable Bluetooth speaker perfect for these last weeks of summer grilling.

If you’re firing up the grill, why not fire up some of your favorite tunes? Great music keeps your grilling humming along, it keeps your guests happy … it’s a win-win. And the dependable AudioPro T3 Portable Bluetooth Speaker is the aesthetically pleasing, crisply designed and relatively affordable Bluetooth speaker you never knew you needed.

The Apron: Filson Antique Tin Cloth Apron — $75

The same sort of quality in an apron that you’d expect from a legendary Filson bag.

Don’t discount the utility of the perfect grilling apron. OK, perhaps the Filson Antique Tin Cloth Apron isn’t perfect … but at least a guy can dream? Made with the same rugged, durable touch you’d expect from Filson, the Antique Tin Cloth Apron is a heck of a lot nicer than those plastic, red-checkered aprons floating around grocery stores. It won’t look half-bad hanging up in your garage or workshop, either.

The Much-Needed Essential: Thieffry Linen Oven Mitt — $20

The rare oven mitt that actually looks … stylish? Yep, it’s not too good to be true.

Handling hot dishes or plates and just grabbing for whatever’s in the area? Not cool, man. The Thieffry Linen Oven Mitt? Distinctly cool — or at least, better-looking than other oven mitts on the market. And when even your oven mitt earns you style points, you can rest assured it’ll be a great day of grilling … at least, one can hope?

The Beverage: GrowlerWerks 64oz. uKeg — $149

A surprisingly stylish and underrated way to keep your favorite craft beer fresh and cold.

Certainly, not everyone enjoys knocking back a ice-cold beer (and if you legally can’t because you’re under 21 … my apologies). But whether your a guest or the host, something as effective and underrated as the GrowlerWerks uKeg is very, VERY handy to have around at a weekend BBQ — especially if it’s stocked with the best beer to bring to a barbecue, ehh? It’s a mini-keg that’s the size of a half-gallon growler, so I’d say you should save this for folks who appreciate the good stuff. The stainless steel vessel and brass carrying handle on the GrowlerWerks uKeg will only get better with age — as is the case with the best men’s gear out there.

The Bottle Opener: Owen and Fred “You Earned It Bottle Opener” — $23

A well-designed, durable bottle opener that’s fun to have around at parties — and on the daily.

Serving some choice bottled beer in addition to the finest stuff you can fit into that GrowlerWerks uKeg? American-made menswear brand Owen and Fred offers you a little encouragement in the form of this smart-looking, durable and one-of-a-kind bottle opener.

The Grilling Essentials: Schmidt Brothers Teak Four-Piece Grilling Set — $49.98

Well-made grilling essentials offered at an affordable price.

The list continues to get longer, ehh? Add some style points to your grilling lineup with the functional Schmidt Brothers Teak Four-Piece Grilling Set, a finely crafted set of stainless steel grilling appliances. In short, it’s an affordably priced package of grilling gear that just so happens to represent an underrated and premium upgrade.

The Cutting Board: Viski Acaia Wood Cheese Board — $29.98

A premium way to serve your favorite snacks during your next cookout.

For serving small bites for your guests to snack on as you toil away in the heat of the grill, pick up the Viski Acaia Wood Cheese Board, a handsome way to serve gourmet snacks. It’s again a small upgrade that’s pleasing to look at and should go well with whatever rugged-refined decor you’ve got going on in your patio or living room — are we on the same page?

The Plates: Norden 8-Inch Plates — $40

A serious upgrade over regular paper or plastic plates.

Make no mistake, Norden makes plates that are, to put it lightly, no laughing matter. Handsomely designed and quite pricey, you might want to save your Norden dishware for smaller parties or special occasions — but they’re a nice upgrade — again with the upgrades — over paper plates and the like.

The Necessary Condiments: Ashman Manufacturing Co. Bourbon Steak Sauce — $8 AND Melinda’s Jalapeño Ketchup — $5.99

Take your pick between two tasty condiments — or bring both.

Want to be the hit of the party? And if not the hit, maybe a close second? Bring an array of tasty condiments to season your favorite grilled meats and vegetables — as crazy as it might sound, it just might work. Ashman’s Bourbon Steak Sauce and Melinda’s Jalapeño Ketchup are two unexpected choices that should add plenty of flavor to any dish.

When it comes to planning the perfect barbecue, there’s a lot of behind-the-scenes work that goes into keeping your guests entertained, well-fed and happy — and hopefully, some of this gear helps you do that. It all starts with your gear, and the PK360 Grill is as functional and well-made a piece as any. The little details — from the Filson Tin Cloth Apron right on through to condiments like Melinda’s Jalapeño Ketchup — really can help make your time grilling (and kicking back with a beer!) that much more enjoyable. Great tunes are a must, too — make the AudioPro T3 Portable Bluetooth Speaker an essential in your home, in your office and at your next barbecue. Take it from a guy who loves his rugged essentials — a small touch like the Owen and Fred brass bottle opener seen above deserves a spot on your back patio table as you grill away. And what’s the thing that brings people together the most? GREAT beer. Just kidding. But certainly, the GrowlerWerks uKeg is a nice way to serve your guests quality craft beers. Does that fill out your shopping list? I certainly hope so. Let me know any thoughts in the comments below, and supplement the above grilling advice with men’s style tips gleaned from my Instagram.

Happy grilling!

-Beau

August 2, 2017August 2, 2017 by Beau H.

The List: Buy This New Men’s Gear for August

As a #menswear fan — and I mean, a BIG fan — it can be tough to sort through the plethora of men’s gear out there. That’s why I hope our ongoing Style Guide series The List is proving helpful, or at least intriguing and interesting. Oh, and hopefully not too expensive? But who’s to say, right? This post today marks the fourth entry in this ongoing journey through, well, a little of this and that. From stylish men’s home goods to the best summer sneakers and one or two (or three!) of the best men’s casual watches, this series covers a bit of everything. Get your credit card ready — or just your wish list — and read on. Thanks for kicking off your month with The Style Guide!

Bespoke Post Refresh Box — $45

One box packed with great gear for the price.

Leave it to Bespoke Post to offer up yet another affordable subscription box with tons of useful gear for the price.

Pacifico Optical Blair Sunglasses — $155

Stylish, classic and easy to wear with just about anything.

Have you completed your search for stylish summer sunglasses yet? Finish it up with these crisp, subtly Pacifico Optical sunglasses.

American Trench Dress Socks (Six-pack) — $99

Not one or two or three .. but SIX pairs of excellent American-made socks.

While it’s certainly essential to keep stylish no-show socks on hand for the summer months, classic dress socks from American Trench are just as essential to stock up on – agreed?

Areaware Concrete Desk Set — $50

Like your regular office supplies … but better.

We’re back to Bespoke Post for a set of stylish, underrated and essential home goods. It’s the little details that count, and organization is certainly among them.

Brathwait Classic Slim Wrist Watch — $229

A clean, crisp and versatile watch.

For all this talk of rugged field watches and the like, it’s sometimes nice to wear a pleasingly crisp, simple and retro-leaning dress watch – like this one.

Bull & Stash Travel Stash Leather Journal — $25

A beautiful way to upgrade your everyday carry.

Bull & Stash makes leather goods of ridiculously great quality, and its Stash Leather Journal is certainly among that offering.

Korchmar Centennial Taft Limited-Edition Weekender — $620

Possibly the last weekender bag you’ll ever buy — agreed?

Every bit worthy of your hard-earned cash, this handsome and stylish weekender bag is the drool-worthy accessory you should pick up for every single trip for years ahead.

Oxford Pennant “Kill the Closest Snake” Pennant — $25

A rugged, eye-catching pennant to upgrade your office and your home in equal measure.

Perhaps you caught our Style Q+A with Oxford Pennant talking how to upgrade your home décor – and here’s one of the first pieces you should buy as part of that process.

Citizen Eco-Drive Chandler Watch — $220

A field-ready, supremely tough and relatively affordable Citizen Eco-Drive watch.

Much like the Brathwait watch featured above, this Citizen Eco-Drive watch is crisply made and versatile – ideal for summer and beyond.

With that last item … we’re closing out this set of additions to The List! What was your favorite pick of the above? I’m personally a huge fan of Oxford Pennant and particuarly, the rugged and edgy pennant option shown above. But again, it’s tough to pick just one! What do you think of these picks? Let me know on Twitter — looking forward to hearing from y’all!

Thanks so much for reading,

-Beau

August 1, 2017July 31, 2017 by Beau H.

Style Suggestion: How to Wear Dark Blue Denim This Summer

Settle in and stay for a bit – we’re talking classic style, and more specifically, how to wear dark blue denim this summer in a special Tuesday edition of our Style Suggestion series (we’ll be back with our regularly scheduled Tuesday #OOTD post next week). Now, I know what you’re thinking: “Beau, do we really need to be wearing dark denim in the summer? It’s hot out!” Well … you’re right about that. But as with plenty of other menswear essentials, there’s a way to make dark blue denim work for you in every season.

And if ever you tire of wearing slim light wash denim, it’s easy to switch back to classic dark blue jeans — like we’re doing today. In the case of the below style suggestion, that means we’re blending reliable classics – slim Taylor Stitch denim – with a stylish short-sleeve shirt. And the rest of your outfit? Well, let’s just say that these picks are just as on-point as you’d expect, from stylish sneakers for summer to a rugged casual watch and a heritage-quality leather wallet. And with that … I’ll leave you to it! Read on, shop away and shoot me a note on Twitter with any thoughts you’ve got on this #menswear ensemble.

The Classic Denim: Taylor Stitch Slim Jean in Cone Mills Standard — $98 ($68 When Signing up for Bespoke Post)

Supremely well-made, durable and stylish dark denim — just beautiful.

Here’s the crown jewel of the entire outfit, a pair of slim, classic dark denim made the right way. There might not be a better partnership in terms of rugged style and heritage quality than what Taylor Stitch has going on with Cone Mills. That means these slim blue jeans are made with only the best of the best in terms of cotton denim – that also means they’ll break in wonderfully and look great the more you wear them.

The Shirt: Taylor Stitch Short-Sleeve California Shirt in Red Madras — $118

A well-crafted, crisp short-sleeve shirt from Taylor Stitch.

Leave it to Taylor Stitch to perfect classic pieces that work in every season – like this handsome, slim short-sleeve shirt. It’s the perfect top layer for a casual, easygoing outfit – the color and fabric are unique and eye-catching. Plus, the fit and quality should be exactly as stellar as you’d expect coming from Taylor Stitch. Wear this for plenty of upcoming summer evenings through Labor Day.

The Tee: Flint and Tinder Slub Tee in Vintage Navy — $28 OR ourCaste Finley Knit in Blue Grey — $28

Two dark blue T-shirt picks for easygoing summer layering.

Layering a tee under a short-sleeve shirt might seem counterintuitive in the heat, but when you’re talking about a stylish Flint and Tinder slub tee or a uniquely textured, well-made ourCaste T-shirt, it’ll work out just fine. Either the Flint and Tinder tee or the ourCaste T-shirt give you the option to wear the Taylor Stitch madras shirt unbuttoned. The tee provides a bit of an extra layer against any summer breezes once the sun sets, too. It’s the perfect top half to wear to your next weekend BBQ.

The Footwear: Nisolo Diego — $129.98 OR SeaVees Maslon Desert Boot in Clipper Class — $108

Two finely crafted casual sneakers in unique colors.

We’re giving you two options here for casual summer sneakers, both of which make use of unique color and materials. The SeaVees Maslon Desert Boot in particular changes up your rotation from classic white leather sneakers, while the Nisolo Diego adds a bit of craftsmanship and rich quality to this outfit. Either are solid investments in terms of price. It’s worth noting that a pair of leather high-top sneakers – like the Todd Snyder x P.F. Flyers Rambler Hi – could work here, too.

The Watch: Huckberry x Lum-Tec GMT — $498 OR Aulta Acuatico Automatico — $240

Two watch picks, two durable, tough and stylish options for ya.

Since this outfit is filled with rugged, casual and yet versatile basics from the ground up, it’s fitting to offer up two rugged watch options. The Huckberry x Lum-Tec GMT is a strong, hard-wearing and noteworthy addition to any watch collection. And the Aulta Acuatico Automatico is just as functional and durable — it’s a no-fuss timepiece for a no-fuss outfit.

The Socks: Arvin Goods Crew Socks (Three-pack) — $30

A simple set of athletically inspired socks, the ideal complement to a casual outfit.

If it’s not already, your sock drawer should likely be filled up with a whole lot of Arvin Goods socks. Stylish, sustainably made, simply designed and comfortable no matter the weather – that’s the case with the brand’s no-show socks and the Arvin Goods crew socks you see here. They’ll complement the colors in this ensemble quite nicely, and that’s all there is to it.

The Belt: Sturdy Brothers Everyday Belt – $80

A handsome, well-crafted belt that’ll get better with age.

If you’ve ever encountered the issues that arise with buying cheap accessories, consider those problems solved with the handsome, rugged and incredibly well-made Sturdy Brothers Everyday Belt. Richly crafted to break in and get better with age, this Sturdy Brothers belt could become an everyday belt if you’re a guy who wears lots of stylish brown leather boots and the like.

The Grooming Essentials: Way of Will Natural Deodorant — $18 AND Way of Will Natural Body Wash — $29.50

One brand packed with grooming options to keep you fresh in the heat.

One brand – the responsibly made Way of Will – and two great options to keep you smelling fresh and looking great in the heat. The Way of Will Natural Deodorant is a marked departure in terms of quality and design compared to standard drug store deodorants, and the Way of Will Natural Body Wash is a crisply scented, finely crafted body wash that’ll come in handy every day.

The Sunglasses: J. Crew Irving Sunglasses — $118

A classically designed pair of sunglasses made for plenty of summer style scenarios.

While J. Crew sunglasses aren’t particularly cheap when you compare them to other stylish men’s sunglasses, they’re a quality investment. They provide unique looks and breezy, laidback style – the kind of style that should perfectly complement your Taylor Stitch denim and a breezy Taylor Stitch madras shirt. Throw these sunglasses on without fear – whether you’re bringing along the best beach gear or strolling to your local farmer’s market.

The Ballcap: Huckberry Explorer’s Cap — $38 OR FairEnds Brushed Cotton Ballcap — $48

Take your pick between easygoing, casual and versatile ballcaps to complement this outfit.

With a casual, subtly stylish ensemble like this one, you’re going to want accessories that hit the mark, too. A simple ballcap crafted from premium materials looks great, finishes off your outfit with some visual interest and protects your face from the sun. The Huckberry Explorer’s Cap offers up a pleasingly vintage look, while the FairEnds Brushed Cotton Ballcap is a no-nonsense hat that plays well off the Taylor Stitch madras shirt.

The Backpack: Filson Daypack — $99.98 OR Bradley Mountain Scout Backpack — $219

Add a rugged, ridiculously well-made backpack to finish off this outfit.

I do love a stylish messenger bag as much as the next guy, but there are certain situations that call for style that’s a little more functional and efficient. For hopping around from bar to bar, heading out on a stroll around town or loading up gear to take on a casual day trip, either the heritage-quality Filson Daypack or the Bradley Mountain Scout Backpack are going to get the job done. Two bags, two rugged, casual and yet versatile options to add to your everyday carry gear.

The Wallet: Bellroy Travel Wallet in Cocoa — $120 ($79 When Signing Up for Bespoke Post)

A heritage-quality wallet that should get a ton of use going forward.

Let’s leave no stone unturned in the way of your everyday carry. The Bellroy Travel Wallet could be the last wallet you need to buy for a long time – it’s that well-made. Crucially, it’s also available for a heck of a deal when you sign up for Bespoke Post. Like the Filson Daypack or the Sturdy Brothers Everyday Belt, it’s an accessory that’s going to get better with age – that much is absolutely true.

We covered a lot of ground there, didn’t we? Wearing dark blue denim in the summer is easy when you keep it crisp, simple and casual. The Taylor Stitch slim jeans you see above are made to break in over time while looking terrific – that much is true. And when you complement them with easygoing basics – like the Flint and Tinder Vintage Slub Tee or the ourCaste Finley Knit – you should be set for lazy backyard cookouts or a day-long upstate exploration.

Complementing reliable essentials with versatile, stylish summer sneakers is also a critical step to keep in mind. Without a doubt, either the Nisolo Diego or the SeaVees Maslon Desert Boot are going to treat you just fine. And when it comes to your everyday carry – as critical a component as any – the rugged Huckberry x Lum-Tec GMT or the Aulta Acuatico Automatico are both reliable watches. Of course, don’t leave home without a bag like the Filson Daypack – agreed? Lastly, grab the Sturdy Brothers Everyday Belt and the Bellroy Travel Wallet if you want to accessorize in style. Have a better handle on how to wear dark blue denim? I hope so! Follow me on Instagram to see how I style my dark blue denim, and I’m looking forward to hearing from ya in the comments.

Stay stylish!

-Beau

The Style Guide

All the best men's style essentials you need, every day.

Tag / men’s style

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Style Suggestion: How to Wear Dark Blue Denim This Summer