Tag / men’s style

by Beau H.

#OOTD: The New Chambray Shirt to Wear This Season

Join us today for another entry in the #OOTD series. If you want to know all about the new chambray shirt to wear this season … it’s your lucky day. From upgrading your pocket tee to wearing a patterned shirt the right way, we’ve certainly covered a lot of ground in all matters spring style — and we’re continuing to do so today, with both sustainability and great looks in mind. Indeed, in the same way that a chambray shirt can work handsomely with a rugged shawl-collar cardigan in winter or a waxed trucker jacket in the fall,  so too can it work in the spring — namely, with a little less fabric in the sleeves. That’s where the United By Blue Wenlock Chambray Shirt comes into play. You might recognize it from a recent Style Pick of the Week entry, and it’s taking center stage now (it’s also been a hot seller via Huckberry, so I’d look to slim short-sleeve chambray shirting from Old Navy to replicate this look). That being said, let’s get to the most important part — your purchase of this shirt helps remove a pound of trash from oceans and waterways, part of the brand’s commitment to the environment. And why should you buy it? Plenty o’ reasons. It features a neat mini-plus sign pattern — just eye-catching enough — and a reliably tailored fit (no baggy shirts — who’s with me?). Both of those features make it perfect for everything from exploring Brooklyn to heading out on a weekend coffee date — and it also can team up with slim tan chinos and a pair of stylish men’s dress shoes for  summer half-day at the office (and happy hour afterward). Alright, so that’s the shirt to wear this season — but what to wear it with? Stick around for the below #OOTD. Stay stylish!

Pairing a cool chambray shirt with slim five-pocket pants, a lightweight bomber and simple sneakers — not bad at all.

The Shirt: United By Blue Wenlock Chambray Shirt, $68 — See, we told you this shirt would look great — right? It’s the ideal way to start a spring style ensemble — slim, unique and ready for just about anything.

The Jacket: Public Rec Apparel Crosstown Bomber, $129 — For those spring and summer evenings when it gets a bit breezy, the Public Rec Apparel Crosstown Bomber is the perfect weight and the perfect silhouette.

The Pants: Flint and Tinder 365 Pant in Earth, $98 — Are you sick of hearing about Flint and Tinder yet? Not quite? Good. The Flint and Tinder 365 Pant in Earth should prove tough, versatile and perfect for situations casual and slightly dressier — particularly alongside the United By Blue Wenlock Chambray Shirt.

The Sneakers: Dr. Scholl’s Rythms Sneaker in Grey Nubuck, $89.99 — For a bit of monochromatic style up against the Public Rec Apparel Crosstown Bomber, reach for affordable, crisp and classic grey sneakers.

The Socks: Darn Tough No Show Ultra-Light Cushion Socks, $29.98 — Because every pair of stylish spring sneakers deserves great socks, get this two-pack of tough (literally) no-show socks.

The Watch: Jack Mason Aviator 3-Hand Watch, $205 —  Tough, rugged and yet refined at the same time, the Jack Mason Aviator 3-Hand Watch is your answer to that age-old question: “What watch do I wear with this outfit?”
Greats
The Sunglasses: Norton Point Charlie 014 Sunglasses, $145 — Blending retro style with a decent price and great quality, the Norton Point Charlie 014 Sunglasses are a great pick-up in advance of summer — truly.

The Everyday Necessity: Nisolo Lori Leather Tote, $134.98 — More than $130 for a leather tote? Well, when it’s an extraordinarily high-quality bag that looks smart alongside your everyday carry, you should give it a shot.
Sutro Shoes Inc.

OK — all ready to wear your new favorite chambray shirt for spring and summer? Of course you are. The building blocks of this outfit are essentials every guy should have in his closet — the United By Blue Wenlock Chambray Shirt is just the beginning. It should look right at home alongside a versatile pair of pants like the Flint and Tinder 365 Pant in Earth. And simple grey sneakers are a nice complement to a casual spring jacket — the Public Rec Apparel Crosstown Bomber is the jacket you need now. Make no mistake, on-point accessories are also clutch — the Norton Point Charlie 014 Sunglasses could be your new go-to pair of shades, while the Nisolo Lori Leather Tote is a reliable and simple way to carry around your goods. All set for this season’s adventures? I know I am!

As always — stay stylish,

-Beau

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Bespoke Post Vibes Box

Editor’s note: Thank you to Bespoke Post for partnering with me on this post and providing the Bespoke Post Vibes Box for the purposes of this review. Enjoy, and thanks for supporting the brands that support The Style Guide! 

The LSTN Sound Co. Fillmore Headphones — seen here — are but one reason to pick up the Bespoke Post Vibes Box. Hayward Sneakers by CLAE. Leatherback Writer by This Is Ground. Matches by Modern Anthology.

There are small lifestyle upgrades that, once you make them, mean you’ll never turn back. Dramatics aside, that’s certainly the case with the Bespoke Post Vibes Box – it’s a unique upgrade in more ways than one, and if you’re a fan of great audio quality, stellar looks and cool vibes, it’s just the ticket. I had the chance to partner with the brand on a review of the Vibes Box (thanks for sending, guys!), and it’s absolutely a winner. It’s one of several stellar “Boxes” sold by the fine folks at  Bespoke Post  – those Boxes are packages that constitute everything from everyday carry accessories to menswear to culinary goodies. And for the audiophile in your life (or yourself), the  Bespoke Post  Vibes Box simply can’t be beat. I had the chance to check out the Vibes Box recently, and although it contains only two products, both are extremely solid, well-made and stylish lifestyle additions. Namely, the LSTN Sound Co. Fillmore Headphones, featuring handsome, richly grained zebra wood casing and a uniquely rugged-yet-refined aesthetic, are a fine upgrade from typical white earbuds. What’s more, the Tinker, Dinker & Doc Eucalyptus Mint Candle is a pleasing addition to your home office. Whether you’re looking for a way to plug in during a day at the office or an afternoon working from home – or a chill evening unwinding — reach for the Vibes Box. As something of a music nut and a fan of live shows featuring everyone from Local Natives to Young the Giant to Lucius, I’d say I can absolutely appreciate great sound quality — and  Bespoke Post simply kills it. Whether I’m kicking back with the LSTN Sound Co.  Fillmore Headphones via the Vibes Box, or relaxing with my JBL E55BT Headphones, there’s something that helps me recharge after a long day than sitting back with my favorite tunes.  If that’s thpice case for you as well, you’ll love the  Bespoke Post Vibes Box – and I’m not just saying that.

But why go all in on the Bespoke Post Vibes Box if you already own multiple pairs of white earbuds? That’s just the very reason.  It’s worth it to make upgrades to your favorite everyday pieces, be that reaching for a better pair of suede Chelsea boots, grabbing high-quality light wash denim or upgrading your casual shirt. And when you pair those #menswear upgrades with a neat pair of headphones for your daily commute or your day at the office, you’re really putting together the whole package. Of course, that same approach extends to things like upgrading your grooming game and decorating your home in style – and it’s all the better that the Vibes Box looks as nice as it performs. It’s all about taking pleasure in the little things, and a quality listening experience is certainly one of those things. Thanks again to Bespoke Post  for partnering with me on this feature – I know I’ll continue to get great mileage out of both the LSTN Sound Co. Fillmore Headphones and the pleasing aromatherapy candle, day after day. Plug in, listen and enjoy!

Thanks, as always, for reading,

-Beau

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: Abercrombie & Fitch x Tretorn, Oars + Alps and LCD Soundsystem

Is it tough to believe we’re kicking off another edition of The Friday Read here at The Style Guide? If your answer is “Yes,” then we’re in the same boat. We’ve had a lot going on here in Brooklyn, from exploring the borough in style to getting you prepped to dress for your next Sunday brunch (we really do love our brunch here, tell ya what), plus busy times at my day job in fashion PR. It’s all fun and games though, and the fun is set to continue this weekend — I’ll be dressed in spring road trip style to head to Indiana to visit my best friend from college, Mr. Stephen Brook. Check out his work covering Notre Dame football and area sports, if you’re a fan of the Fighting Irish. And if you want to keep up with all the action, follow yours truly on Instagram or check in with The Style Guide on Facebook. Know that in other #menswear matters, I just finished a rather extensive — and I mean, extensive — feature for GearMoose covering the best men’s backpacks; keep your eyes peeled for that one.  For now though, let’s start the weekend nice and early with a few choice men’s style (and music!) reads. Enjoy!

  • Upgrade your grooming game in a big way with Oars + Alps and the brand’s handy, easy-to-use and nearly essential Athlete’s Grooming Kit. I’ve had the chance to test it out over these past few weeks, and I’ve been quite pleased with the results — check out my recent feature on the Oars + Alps Athlete’s Grooming Kit for yourself!
  • We love talking all about spring style essentials here at The Style Guide — and when it comes to your new favorite sneakers for spring and summer, Abercrombie and Fitch x Tretorn might just take the cake. It was excellent to learn about the new collaboration’s updated take on the classic Tretorn Nylite Sneakers for The Manual, and I’d urge you to pick up a pair while they’re around.
  • If you haven’t gotten around to listening to two (two!) new LCD Soundsystem songs, please take this chance to do so. The eclectic NYC indie rockers helped define a new era in the resurgent NYC rock scene thoughout the 2000s, and they’ve returned to the fold with festival appearances in recent years, plus an April residency at new venue Brooklyn Steel to boot! So, it’s nice that new music is here — with more to come, if our luck holds up!

One last thing before you go:

  • In need of a new favorite everyday carry piece? Namely, an essential and slim wallet? The TGT Army All Over Deluxe Wallet could be just the wallet to buy for you — and it’s with that durability and versatility in mind that I wrote about it for GearMoose. Enjoy, and let me know in the comments if you end up picking it up!

We’re all finished up for this week, folks. Time for the weekend! Stay tuned for tomorrow’s Style Pick of the Week, and check back on Monday for more #menswear.

by Beau H.

Reader Giveaway Opportunity: Johnston and Murphy Allister Lace-ups

Editor’s note: Congrats to Jeff, our giveaway winner! Thanks to everyone for reading and participating!

Alright, loyal Style Guide readers — how are we doing today? I’ll tell you this — your day (and week) could be on the verge of getting a lot better? Why’s that? Today’s reader giveaway opportunity is all about the best spring sneakers you need now — one pair, to be more specific. And if you’re a fan of crisp white sneakers for warm weather, consider today your lucky day. As it were, you might recognize the Johnston and Murphy Allister Lace-up from an earlier Style Guide post on how to dress for a spring road trip. They’re a crisp, clean, simple and subtly stylish pair of sneakers from a brand that excels at making all sorts of excellent gear — from rugged leather boots to a waxed field jacket that proved crucial for my upstate New York road trip last fall.  And if you’ve been in need of a spring footwear upgrade, consider that problem solved (if you’re fortunate enough to win, that is). Why exactly are these sneakers such a crucial pair to have in your rotation this season? From the slim profile to the textured upper and clean silhouette, it’s tough to top these guys — I’ve found them to be similarly versatile with other spring gear (including the neat Ministry of Supply Daystarter Band-Collar Shirt and the Going Places Short), and I think you’ll be just as pleased.

Sutro Footwear

Crucially, I’d suggest you style these with a slim polo and classic tan chinos every chance you get — and know that they’ll work with slim chino shorts and a patterned short-sleeve shirt on weekends just as well as the weekday. And if you feel like keeping it simple — say, a slim heather grey pocket tee and olive chinos — the Johnston and Murphy Allister Lace-up works for that situation, too. So, those tips are all well and good — but how to win, ehh? To win these sneakers, leave a comment below telling me how you’d style them — that’s it! One winner will be chosen at random on midnight on May 13th. Yes indeed, that’s longer than our normal Style Guide giveaways — I’m excited about it, and I hope you are, too. Good luck out there, stay stylish and thanks for reading!

by Beau H.

#OOTD: What to Wear with Your Favorite Classic Sneakers

OK, so you’ve got a new pair of classic sneakers — wondering what to wear ’em with? That’s what today’s #OOTD is all about, and I think you’ll like the results. Much like wearing a classic henley or upgrading your casual shirt, the difference comes in the pieces you accessorize with alongside your sneakers; in this instance, that means a slim Criquet polo and classic Flint and Tinder chinos are the way to go.  Of course, it wouldn’t be possible without those classic, affordably priced and great-looking summer sneakers. So, the brand-new Abercrombie & Fitch x Tretorn collaboration — celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Tretorn Nylite Sneaker and the 125th anniversary of A&F — are the way to go. They’re sleek, they’re simple and they’re easy to buy right now — let’s show ya how to wear ’em, yes? For more daily #menswear inspiration, follow yours truly on Instagram.

Clean sneakers that are easy to wear with other essentials.

The Sneakers: Abercrombie & Fitch x Tretorn Nylite Sneakers, $70 — Designed in-house by Abercrombie & Fitch, this collaboration updates the classic Tretorn Nylite silhouette with a garment-dyed upper, easily wearable all summer long.

The Polo: Criquet Slim-Fit Player’s Shirt, $79  — Featuring the crisp collar and excellent fabric for which Criquet is known, the Slim-Fit Player’s Shirt is a great upgrade to your summer polo game.

Sutro Footwear

The Pants: Flint and Tinder 365 Pant in Light Khaki, $98 — The good folks of Flint and Tinder & Huckberry excel at making excellent gear for every season and nearly every occasion — the 365 Pant in Light Khaki is a prime example of that approach.

The Socks: Darn Tough No Show Ultra-Light Cushion Socks, $29.98 — When you slip on classic, high-quality sneakers, you need nice no-show socks to protect both your feet and the sneakers themselves. That’s where the Darn Tough no-show socks come into play.

The Belt: La Matera Corbina Belt, $145 — When is it worth it to spend $145 on a belt? When said belt is made by La Matera and adds a welcome shot of color and pattern into an outfit.

The Accessory: Tres Cuervos Flint Leather Bracelet (Available via Upstate Stock), $40 — Want to add some visual interest to your look? Reach for a well-made leather bracelet from the excellent menswear purveyors at Upstate Stock.
Oxfords under $50 CAD_728x90
The Watch: Orient USA Ray II Watch, $229.98 — In classic “McQueen” fashion, we’re pairing stellar sneakers with chinos, a polo and  a tough dive watch. In this instance, the Orient USA Ray II Watch is a stellar pick.
The Sunglasses: Raen Optics Wiley Sunglasses, $135 — Leave it to Huckberry to stock and sell an excellent mix of classic accessories — such as the handsome-looking Raen Optics Wiley Sunglasses. Done deal!
NORDSTROM.com
It’s a testament to the fun of changing seasons that it can be enjoyable to get dressed in the spring and summer without piling on a bunch of layers. And there might not be anything better than grabbing a classic pair of sneakers such as the  Abercrombie & Fitch x Tretorn pair seen here. When paired up with versatile essentials like the  Slim-Fit Player’s Shirt from Criquet, you’ve got a winning combination. And slim trousers like the 365 Pant in Light Khaki help get the job done, too. Lest we forget accessories, I’m confident you’ll be pleased with a neat-looking leather bracelet from Upstate Stock, plus the Raen Optics Wiley Sunglasses (a classic silhouette) and the tough Orient USA Ray II Watch. OK, folks — that’s all we’ve got today. Enjoy and stay stylish!

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Oars + Alps Athlete’s Grooming Kit

Oars + Alps

Grooming essentials from Oars + Alps paired with weekend essentials — the Owen and Fred Brass Bottle Opener and Graft Lantz 1951 Traveller Bag among them.

We’ve  talked quite often in our Style Pick of the Week series about men’s style essentials you need to have on-hand in your closet — be it a  lightweight nylon jacket or versatile spring sneakers. But what about your … medicine cabinet?  Effective men’s grooming products tend to be an area most of us guys overlook — it can be an overwhelming field to dive into, what with a plethora of options and brands big and small out there. Yes indeed, keeping it simple can sometimes pay off. In that vein, the Oars + Alps Athlete’s Grooming Kit is simplicity defined for the guy who wants to upgrade his grooming game quickly and easily. Available via the brand’s Web site and the fine folks at Huckberry, it’s a quick and easy-to-use set of just three basics that you need now. While we’ve talked about the best men’s grooming products for winter, it’s just as important to keep your skin in shape during the spring and summer. And the Oars + Alps Athlete’s Grooming Kit is certainly made for the guy on the go, whether you fancy yourself an athlete or not. The kit features the crisply scented, effective Active Armor Deodorant, a 2-in-1 face moisturizer and eye cream — use a lighter amount under the eyes, a thicker amount on the face — and the unique Power Cleansing Face Stick. With that versatility in mind, there’s a great chance the Athlete’s Grooming Kit could be the most essential grooming move you make this season. Having had the chance to test out the line recently courtesy of the brand, I can certainly vouch for that — in fact, it might be among the best men’s grooming products for spring and summer.

Beckett Simonon

The full line-up from Oars + Alps — possibly your new favorite set of grooming essentials.

At first glance, the Power Cleansing Face Stick seems a bit different — you rub the stick on your face (avoiding your eyes), and then rub the solution into your skin with wet hands. Sound odd? Maybe a little — but once you realize that the Cleansing Face Stick leaves your skin feeling refreshed and smooth, it’s easy to use. And the combination of face moisturizer and eye cream eliminates an extra step in the grooming process while hydrating your skin. Again, refreshing and smooth skin isn’t something you should let go in the spring and summer. And the Active Armor Deodorant proves that the Athlete’s Grooming Kit really is an excellent all-around grooming routine, what with its effective performance and crisp scent. While you might have the rest of your spring style essentials covered, the Athlete’s Grooming Kit can absolutely take care of your grooming needs all spring and summer long. The fact that the you can pick up the Athlete’s Grooming Kit for a low price is just an added bonus. And it’s a crucial reminder that even if you think you have everything covered, it’s best to go the extra mile with grooming essentials. If you’ve got more questions on the Athlete’s Grooming Kit, just drop me a line via Twitter.

Stay stylish!

-Beau

Greats

 

by Beau H.

Online Shopping Picks: The Best Men’s Messenger Bags to Buy Now

As we always say at The Style Guide, it pays to do your homework when it comes to style upgrades — especially if that homework involves sifting through our Online Shopping Picks series.  From stylish dress shoes to the best men’s grooming products, we’ve covered a lot of ground on the blog — yet, today’s entry will be the first-ever attempt at chronicling the best men’s messenger bags. Yes indeed, we’re in this together today. A messenger bag is a sort of secret style weapon for the guy who prefers casual style yet still wants to look sharp. Although brands are indeed making stylish leather backpacks — the Jack + Mulligan Welles Backpack comes to mind — there’s still something that’s a bit too youthful about a backpack. However, a luxurious briefcase, no matter how nice, also might not work — it could be too dressy or hard to lug around (only pesky handles to hold). So, where do you go? I give you … the humble messenger bag. Still a favorite of actual bike messengers here in New York City, there are some durable, handsome and casually stylish options out there — and we’ll show you just the ones to buy today.  Pack it up and bring your favorite messenger bag on a spring road trip or fill it with everyday carry essentials on the go. Join in on the fun, shop away and leave any comments for me below or on Twitter, where I tweet about as much #menswear as I can. Enjoy!

#1. Joshu + Vela Zip Briefcase — $234.98

Joshu + Vela

A durable, rugged and gear-friendly zip briefcase — a messenger bag, in my book.

OK, so is the Joshu + Vela Zip Briefcase a briefcase, or a messenger bag? Traditional convention might dictate that a messenger bag fold over the top but hey … we’re not too picky over here. Either way, the durable, handsome and rugged Zip Briefcase is definitely an upgrade over your current backpack situation. Thick canvas and a beautiful bridle leather strap are made to age well and stand up to adventures aplenty, and this particular bag can house a 15-inch MacBook — pretty versatile and durable, ehh?

Sutro Shoes Inc.

An easy-to-carry, easy-to-use leather messenger bag from a great Michigan company.

The makers of the 810 Wallet also do a heck of a nice messenger bag. A personal favorite of yours truly, the Roma Messenger has accompanied me on adventures around Brooklyn and a winter trip back to Michigan, handling each trip with grace and great looks. It’s a surprisingly lightweight, unlined leather messenger bag — designed in the state of Michigan itself, my bag has aged quite well and held up more than alright through a long commute and a frigid New York winter. If you value quality and crisp style, the Roma Messenger is your bag.

Florsheim

Peak Design

The most popular camera bag in the history of Kickstarter — and a heck of a worthy messenger bag purchase.

If you value functional design that considers every detail, consider making the Peak Design Everyday Messenger your next messenger bag purchase. It really does have so much going for it — from the lifetime warranty to the whopping $4.7 million it raised on its initial Kickstarter funding run, the Peak Design Everyday Messenger is unlike any bag you’ve ever bought — from the waterproof waxed shell and seatbelt-style straps to the removable dividers and space for a full-frame DSLR, it’s got the goods to carry, well, your goods. Again, you might want to look into the Peak Design Everyday Messenger.
Filson Original Briefcase

One of the more recognizable everyday bags on the market — and a heck of an option for you to buy right now.

Yet another briefcase that’s not quite your traditional briefcase by any means, the Filson Original Briefcase  is an instantly recognizable heritage classic known and used the world over. It’s a favorite of a lot of guys here in New York City (and elsewhere) for its water-repellent exterior, handy two-way zipper and a  plethora of interior and exterior pockets. The USA-made construction is legendary — you’ll have this briefcase for years to come, seriously.
Owen and Fred

Yet another terrific upgrade to your daily carry.

Are you sick of reading about bags that are not quite technically messenger bags? Well, fear not — we’re almost done here. Owen and Fred really lives up to the brand’s motto — “men’s goods made great” — and from its Voyager Waxed Weekender to smaller pieces like the brand’s essential brass bottle opener, you need to get Owen and Fred on your radar. The brand’s Flight Brief, made out of stylish midnight waxed canvas and finished with handsome leather accents, is a terrific bag for work or play.
Hopefully, you’ve now filled up your shopping cart with a new everyday bag — ehh? While a piece like the Joshu + Vela Zip Briefcase defies the traditional conventions of a messenger bag, it’s a handsome, durable and reliably stylish upgrade to your everyday carry. And the sleek silhouette and clean lines of the Owen and Fred Flight Brief also make it a worthy addition to this list. In terms of classic, rugged appeal, it’s very tough to top the Filson Original Briefcase  — and you’d do well to pick that one up, of course. For the more functionally minded guy, the Peak Design Everyday Messenger fits the bill more than nicely. Last but not least, the Michigan-designed Brothers Leather Supply Roma Messenger could be your new favorite everyday bag. With that being said — are you ready for your next commute or road trip? See you out there.
-Beau

by Beau H.

#OOTD: How to Wear Light Wash Jeans This Spring

So, you’ve picked up your new favorite pair of light wash denim — or at least, you’ve thought about it. Now, how do you wear those jeans? Well, there are a few moves that’ll help you take on spring in style — unlike pairing dark selvedge denim with sturdy leather boots and a thick shawl cardigan for winter, the focus today is on keeping things light, breezy and fun. That means we’re grabbing an essential spring polo and a classic cotton bomber jacket, all the while focused on dialing in the fit of your light wash denim. In the warm, breezy days of spring and summer, light wash denim just fits in with the weather and the atmosphere. Trust me on this: You’re going to want to wear light wash jeans as much as you can this summer — particularly when those jeans are made in a unique wash and feature a slim fit. That means that from spring road trips to summer music festivals, slim light wash jeans should be a go-to move — and it doesn’t get better than the Abercrombie light wash denim seen here. You know Abercrombie and Fitch for the brand’s stylish, durable winter gear, and that same attitude carries over to its spring line. If you have other questions on how to wear your light wash denim, or if you just want to get in touch, hit me up on Twitter or join me over on the ‘Gram for style inspiration on the daily.

Sutro Footwear

Mixing the sporty and the classic for essential spring style.

The Denim: Abercrombie and Fitch Super Skinny Jeans, $39 — If it’s slim, of-the-moment style that you seek, look no further than this vibrant pair of washed denim, made with a hint of stretch for comfort. For options that feature a more forgiving cut, look toward Straight or Slim options via Mott and Bow.

The Jacket: La Paz Ortigao Bomber in Almond, $275 — We first brought this jacket to your attention in our post on how to dress for a spring road trip — and well, it’s back again thanks to its unique color and lightweight construction.
Greats

The Polo: Criquet Shirts Slim-Fit Player’s Shirt in Midnight Cowboy, $79 — For easily wearable style that looks sharp underneath a bomber jacket or on its own, it’s tough to top a classic navy polo like the Criquet Slim-Fit Player’s Shirt  — especially one made with organic cotton jersey fabric.

The Sneakers: House of Future Original Sneaker in White, $76.98 — Who doesn’t love a pair of classic leather sneakers? Especially the House of Future Original Sneaker — these are sharp and feature a crisp, slim profile for an agreeable price.

The Socks: Darn Tough No Show Ultra-Light Cushion Socks, $29.98 — No-show socks can be a surprisingly tricky item for which to shop — you want comfort and quality, and you get that with the Darn Tough No Show Ultra-Light Cushion Socks.

The Belt: La Matera Bariloche Belt, $145 — If you want to step up your #menswear accessories game in a big way, reach for a casual belt — say, the La Matera Bariloche Belt — that blends vintage fabric, a neat pattern and cool color.

The Watch: Jack Mason Aviator Chronograph, $275 — For handsome, smart and casual style that still looks extremely sharp and put-together, the Jack Mason Aviator Chronograph is the watch you need now.

The Sunglasses: Norton Point Charlie 014 Sunglasses, $145 — For seriously cool style, reach for retro-inspired sunglasses that add some sporty appeal to the La Paz Ortigao Bomber.

Florsheim

Feeling comfortable with how to wear light wash denim now? At least a little bit more comfortable? If you haven’t quite come around to the idea of light wash denim yet, the key here involves taking pieces that you’d already wear in warm weather — like the Criquet Slim-Fit Player’s Shirt — and mashing them up with sporty-yet-casual pieces (such as the La Paz Ortigao Bomber in Almond. Add in supremely classic and clean white leather sneakers like the House of Future Original Sneaker , and then accent that casual combo with the beautiful and just plain badass Jack Mason Aviator Chronograph. Oh, and don’t leave your shades at home — there’s no doubt that you won’t forget the Norton Point Charlie 014 Sunglasses, what with a retro-inspired design and cool looks. In short, all of these pieces work on their own — and they particularly work well together for all manner of spring style pursuits, from a ballgame to a weekend coffee date to a spring road trip. Especially that light wash denim. Ya feel me on that? Good.

Let’s go to it!

-Beau

 

by Beau H.

Style Suggestion: How to Dress for Cinco de Mayo

Sidle up to the bar, folks! It’s time for a little Cinco de Mayo celebration — and the requisite #menswear to go with it, of course. Yes, the holiday to commemorate the Mexican Army’s victory in the Battle of Puebla has turned into quite the occasion here in the U.S. (for better or worse). Seeing as it’s as great a time as any to hit up your first spring bar crawl, you might as well look stylish while doing it — right? We’re offering up picks today that harness the best of spring style — essential chino shorts, a versatile short-sleeve shirt and SeaVees slip-on sneakers that can go just about anywhere.  Just as with dressing for spring break or dressing for a road trip, the winning formula lies in upgrading your basic pieces and nailing the fit just right. Oh, and enjoying yourself along the way — that’s what it’s all about. Kick back, enjoy a Corona or a Tecate for me, and scroll through the below #menswear picks. Got any feedback for me? Hit me up over on Twitter. Bottoms up!

The Shirt: United By Blue Wenlock Chambray Shirt — $68

United By Blue

Style that goes toward a good cause and looks excellent for Cinco de Mayo and beyond.

For style that’s at once more put-together than a T-shirt and yet more casual than your standard classic Oxford or dress shirt, reach for a slim chambray shirt — preferably the United By Blue Wenlock Chambray Shirt. Made with sustainability in mind — your purchase helps the brand remove one pound of trash from oceans and waterways — the mini-plus sign print is visually interesting, while the unique lighter blue color is a spring-appropriate style move. Yes indeed, this shirt is made for a few patio brews.

The  Shorts: Katin Patio Shorts — $49.98

Katin

Your go-to shorts for having a few spring brews — especially on Cinco de Mayo.

The prime function of the Katin Patio Shorts is … practically in the product title itself. They’re made for spring and summer patio evenings galore. And they’re a heck of a steal for under $50 — just the shorts you need to wear for spring and summer, what with a versatile khaki color and a clean fit. Add in the drawstring waist and you’ve got a bit of hidden comfort — ideal for moving from bar to bar or manning the grill. Again, it’s tough to top that combination of price and solid looks.
Get $30 off your first month of Style Plan and Free Shipping at Frank + Oak! *Valid only on Style Plan subscriptions until 5/31/2017.

The Sneakers: SeaVees Huntington Middie — $84.98

SeaVees

A sneaker that blends the ease of a slip-on with the style of a canvas lace-up.

See, told ya we’d be recommending some SeaVees slip-on sneakers for the occasion, did I not? The  SeaVees Huntington Middie is a unique option that’s A) Ideal for spring and B) Pleasingly versatile thanks to its slip-on construction and chukka-like cut. In short, it’s both perfect for beach trips and boardwalk strolls, along with a little Cinco de Mayo party action. The SeaVees Huntington Middie is definitely an upgrade over flip-flops, and you can wear ’em all summer long.

The Socks: Darn Tough No Show Ultra-Light Cushion Socks –$29.98

Darn Tough No-Show Socks

Simple no-show socks that blend comfort with practicality.

Slip-on sneakers still call for no-show socks that provide comfort for your feet and extend the life of your footwear — agreed? And Darn Tough makes some of the best out there; sure, it’s just a hair under $30 for a two-pack, but these are a weather-appropriate way to upgrade your sock game — no white tube socks and sneakers now, ya hear?

The Watch: Szanto Military Field Watch — $150

Szanto Military Field Watch

A watch that can stand up to a little sun and maybe even a spilled drink.

A military field watch for Cinco de Mayo? Absolutely. When the name of the game is hopping from party to party or bar to bar, whether you imbibe or not, it’s still a good idea to step out in casual style that channels rugged vibes. That is to say: Leave the heirloom watch at home this go-round. Luckily for you, the Szanto Military Field Watch is clean and simple, with understated, casual style to match. The price ain’t half-bad, either — pick up my tab, will ya?
Sutro Shoes Inc.

The Sunglasses: Raen Optics Wiley Sunglasses — $135

Raen Optics

Sunglasses that blend retro style and casual vibes — just what the doctor ordered for your next bar crawl.

If you’ve got the basics of this outfit handled, it’s OK to go a little more retro-inspired, or head-turning, with your accessories. The Wiley Sunglasses from Raen Optics are but one way to do this — they call to mind the sort of shades McQueen might have worn, with a more affordable price tag. And they’re a nice way to fit in with a casual chambray shirt and laidback shorts — these aren’t your average athletic sunglasses, nor are they a cheaper grocery store version. Just right.
Florsheim

The Hat: Huckberry Explorer’s Cap — $39.98

Huckberry Explorer's Cap

Vintage style that’s easily wearable and functional at the same time.

No one said it’d be all fun and games on Cinco de Mayo, right? There’s also the chance to catch a nasty sunburn after hours in the heat. So, the Huckberry Explorer’s Cap is going to keep the sun off your face, and do so in style. There’s no athletic logo in sight here — just a vintage-inspired ballcap that’s easily wearable with the basics, including a stylish chambray shirt. Wear it now, wear it on your next road trip and don’t forget to pack it with your stylish beach gear this summer.

The Bag: Billykirk Simple Tote — $184.98

Billykirk

A smart move that should prove quite useful and durable through this bar crawl and beyond.

If you’re questioning the necessity of lugging a bag to a bar crawl or party, well … where are you going to put your phone charger, and your bottle opener, and that six-pack? Answer: The Billykirk Simple Tote . Handsome, built to age well and last through plenty of seasonal adventures, and a heck of a casual bag to complement this ensemble. It avoids the cumbersome straps of a backpack, and yet it’s smaller and easier to carry when compared to a piece like the Bradley Mountain Utility Bag.
NORDSTROM.com

 OK, y’all — who’s ready for Cinco de Mayo? This guy is. Casual, off-duty style can be simple and quite fun, particularly if you start with a shirt that’s at once polished and laidback — enter the United By Blue Wenlock Chambray Shirt. And you’d do well to complement said shirt with equally laidback, wearable shorts; in this instance, the Katin Patio Shorts should have you all set for the day ahead. And crisp slip-on sneakers in a clean shade of white are an essential style move — enter the SeaVees Huntington Middie into your rotation. Practical touches, from stylish sunglasses to a vintage-inspired ballcap and a durable Billykirk tote are also must-have, especially if you’re hopping around town for hours at a time. And again, the key here comes down to nailing the fit and colors — and enjoying the day responsibly, of course. What are your Cinco de Mayo plans? Hopefully, they involve a few Coronas and a lot of fun.
Thanks so much for reading — enjoy!
-Beau
by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: United By Blue Wenlock Chambray Shirt

First things first: Make no mistake, the United By Blue Wenlock Chambray Shirt could be your new favorite spring and summer shirt. That’s why it gets top billing as today’s Style Pick of the Week — despite a closely contested race, it came down to one vote …. yours truly. And if you’ve read this blog, you know that United By Blue is a company that gets a lot of things right, from stylish essentials to sustainability. At any rate,  it’s pretty essential to have a closet stocked full of stylish short-sleeve  shirts regardless. And again, the Wenlock Chambray Shirt could just be that shirt. Think of a short-sleeve shirt as a slightly upgraded, more visually interesting version of your favorite summer polo — and for all those times when you want to throw on something nicer than a T-shirt, yet still casual, a piece like the Wenlock Chambray Shirt. It combines great looks, a unique lighter blue chambray fabric and a visually pleasing mini-plus sign pattern with the sustainable style for which United By Blue is known — and given that we just passed Earth Day, it’s perhaps more important now than ever to pay attention to where your clothes come from. So, know that with your purchase of the Wenlock Chambray Shirt, the brand will commit to remove one pound of trash from our oceans and waterways — not a bad pay-off for doing a little shopping, ehh? You get style points and sustainability — but lest we forget, the Wenlock Chambray Shirt still has plenty going for it in the looks department.
Greats

United By Blue

A neat pattern, modern fit and sustainable style rolled into one package.

For one, the mini-plus sign pattern on the Wenlock Chambray Shirt is a nice departure from plain chambray shirts (as stylish as those are). And the light blue color makes this one easily wearable with slim chino shorts and classic white sneakers — especially classic white sneakers. It’s also modern enough to wear to this office under a lightweight blazer for deceptively cool and casual style (thank the short sleeves for that). And when the work day is done? Slip off that blazer and step up to the bar, ehh? The great thing about the Wenlock Chambray Shirt  is that it’s a reliable upgrade in plenty of situations — it looks just a little more put-together for a spring bar crawl or a day out and about around town than a T-shirt. Plus, you could feasibly wear it with a stylish, upgraded baseball cap to a ballgame, too. Oh, and the price — yes indeed, the price is a plus. Keep in mind that you get all this — versatile style, great looks and sustainability — for $68. Considering that you can wear it nearly everywhere — from a spring road trip to a day at the beach — that really is an agreeable going rate. So, whaddya say? Will you be picking up the Wenlock Chambray Shirt? Let me know in the comments or over at The Style Guide Facebook page. Cheers!

-Beau

Sutro Shoes Inc.