Tag / men’s style essentials

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: Yeezy Season 4, Bonobos GoodSport and What to Wear During Football Season

Editor’s note: Expect these posts once a week on Fridays — consider this a jumpstart on reading for your weekend downtime. Expect a mix of style and non-style content. For more entries, click here.  

The last time we spoke, we were heading into an action-packed Labor Day weekend and the start of some serious fall style cravings (oh, and college football season). Well, surprise — it’s a week later, and it doesn’t exactly feel like fall around these parts. We’ll keep looking toward everyone’s favorite menswear season next week, with both a Fall Style Wish List and some rugged men’s shopping picks for the season.  For now, we’ve got the shopping picks you need should you still find yourself having to beat the heat — as has been the case for months now, it seems like.  Rest assured that we’ve also got a few choice reads to jumpstart what I hope is a weekend of relaxation, menswear, football and craft beer (or are those just my plans?).  If you’re trekking to a tailgate, here’s what to wear.  If you’re heading to a rock concert, what do you know? Here’s what to wear to a show. And if you just fancy catching up on the week in men’s style news? Read on below.

  • If you stuck your head under a rock earlier this week, you might have missed the relative chaos that was Yeezy Season 4, just ahead of the start of New York Fashion Week. It was inescapable around New York City these past few days, and while I’m not the biggest fan at all of ‘Ye musically or, I guess, personally, the man knows how to command headlines. You decide whether that’s a good thing or a bad thing…
  • Gushing over these pieces is always fun (if slightly depressing in terms of budgetary constraints) — here are the goods the folks at Well-Spent would buy instead of rent this month.
  • Getting to and from the gym with style in mind isn’t always high-priority — but perhaps it should be. Bonobos just launched its GoodSport line of athletic-minded apparel, and GQ is calling ’em the best-fitting gym shorts on the market.

Want more menswear to round out your day?

We’re signing out until Monday, when we’ll deliver the goods on that fall style wish list — check out Instagram for more style snaps along the way, and enjoy the weekend!

-Beau

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: Emerging Menswear Designers, Mack Weldon Underwear and Travel Style

Editor’s note: Expect these posts once a week on Fridays — consider this a jumpstart on reading for your weekend downtime. Expect a mix of style and non-style content. For more entries, click here.  

Does it feel crazy that Labor Day is bearing down upon us? Wasn’t it just the Fourth of July? Heck, wasn’t it just Memorial Day? When you’ve been on the road so much — as I have — things start to move a little fast. It’s definitely been welcomed though, and I hope your summer has featured some great travel; I know I certainly had fun attending a Michigan wedding this past weekend, preceded by a stylish business trip to Las Vegas. Time on the road never ends, though — this weekend, I’m catching a flight to Florida to relax in the sand and sun with my parents! Just as with a  Style Guide spring break trip to Florida earlier this year, I’m very much looking forward to getting some quality beach and pool time. There are a lot of great reasons to be in town, including celebrating my mom’s birthday (Hi, Mom!) and a long-awaited AC/DC concert in nearby Fort Lauderdale (yes, AC/DC — an all-time favorite!). Of course, the trip will definitely include some delicious meals, ample shopping time and stops through Fort Myers’ finest breweries — not to mention, an Instagram feature or two … or several (and a full travel style blog post next week).  If you’ve got a trip of your own coming up, even if it’s just to the beach, bring along #menswear essentials and you’ll be all set.  For now though, let’s kick back in style and prep for the weekend ahead — there’s a little bit of everything in the below Friday Read.

  • Before you focus on your big fall purchases, refresh your underwear drawer — the Mack Weldon team just launched a bevy of new colors in its popular 18-Hour Jersey Boxer Brief. They’re perhaps the highest-quality underwear I’ve ever owned, and the fit & feel is great. Seriously, check out Mack Weldon if you haven’t already — yeah?
  • If you thought you knew all of your favorite menswear designers, think again. GQ Style introduces you to the best new menswear designers on the market this fall. Study up!
  • Last but not least — perhaps it’s my desire to upgrade my apartment space, but Valet urges you to upgrade your man cave into something more refined — a gentleman’s study. Not a bad thought — some essentials from the likes of Owen & Fred might set you right.

Don’t close your browser just yet — there’s more men’s style coverage right here:

    • Your new favorite fall sneakers are here — that is, if this launch wasn’t on your radar already. The latest Todd Snyder x P.F. Flyers collaboration just dropped (as covered by yours truly for The Manual), it’s just about everything you could ask for in a pair of high-top sneakers. We’re talking sturdy military-grade canvas on the upper, a reinforced sole and front toe bumper, and two very cool color options. Pick these up now and wear them as often as you can!
    • If you love a great finishing touch as much as I do, perhaps you’d be interested in checking out my GearMoose post on the best men’s dive watches — it covers options both budget-friendly and prohibitively expensive. It’s a supplement to this site’s guide to the best dive watches, if you will.

Buck Mason - Timeless Design. Made in America.

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Mott & Bow Italian-Made Denim

Editor’s note: Expect these posts weekly detailing one standout item coveted by yours truly. Sometimes, these fit within budgetary restrictions and other times, they’re expensive splurges worth saving for. For more Wish List items from Beau, head here, and to see other Style Picks, head here.

Mott & Bow denim

Two different washes, yet the same great price and excellent Italian denim.

We’re back this week with what just might be the item you’re thinking about least during this hot time of year — denim. Specifically, new Mott & Bow Italian-made denim, made in partnership with denim purveyors Candiani. But denim? In the midst of all this heat? Absolutely. And there’s a very good reason for that. From a true Mott & Bow classic, the  Skinny Mosco denim ( a reliable dark jean that wears well no matter the time of year), to the light wash Wooster denim (ideal for wearing in warmer temperatures), the brand can hardly go wrong. (Editor’s note: Truly! If you’ve had a bad experience with ’em, let me know in the comments or via email). The Mott & Bow brand offers a relatively quick and easy shopping experience with free home try-ons and returns, and they offer Slim, Straight and Skinny fits for under $100, for the most part. That goes for offerings they sell via Huckberry, and the gear sold on the brand’s Web site. Which brings us to their latest new release — premium Italian denim. A big thank you to the brand to sending along both pairs in this collection for review and features on Instagram, and today, I’m here to report back that they’re every bit as good as advertised. What exactly are you getting for the very fair price of $128 of Italian cotton denim? Scroll on down.
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A personal favorite -- the Staple, a slight switch from dark denim that just works.

A personal favorite — the Staple, a slight switch from dark denim that just works.

First things first — the brand’s two new styles offer up a nice bit of versatility. The Staple is a medium-dark blue wash that at first glance looks a bit like plain ol’ dark denim. Yet, closer inspection reveals that although these jeans start with a deep indigo base, they’re finished off with hand-sanding and a stone-washing process that gives them some unique coloration and fading. In fact, the above photo shows that off quite nicely. Make no mistake, these certainly aren’t heavily whiskered, overly distressed jeans. If anything, these jeans are a pleasant, premium change of pace from your regular denim. Plus, they’re comfortable as heck — a remarkable 20 percent stretch built in means they wear very comfortable, and the hardware, zipper and front button all feel sturdy. Heck, even the subtly branded back leather patch feels premium and durable. And again, that 20 percent stretch really makes them easily wearable in the heat. Now, style number two — the Warren, also starts with an indigo color. However, this pair is finished off with a lighter six-month wash, which consists of an intensive spraying, scraping and drying process for a well-worn look that’s entirely unique. On that, Denim Science as done by the folks at Mott & Bow is quite impressive, and you really do get a lot for under $130. Both jeans should fit you remarkably well, and know that they look crisp enough to pair with a classic pocket T-shirt and stylish white leather sneakers on the weekend, or as a complement to a tailored chambray blazer during the work week.  Oh, and they’re well-priced and in-stock at the moment, so please hop on it — will ya?

Do you own any Mott & Bow denim? Are you considering adding a pair or two of these to your wardrobe?

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Buck Mason Sand Chinos

Editor’s note: Expect these posts weekly detailing one standout item coveted by yours truly. Sometimes, these fit within budgetary restrictions and other times, they’re expensive splurges worth saving for. For more Wish List items from Beau, head here, and to see other Style Picks, head here.

The perfect pair of four-season chinos -- just maybe?

The perfect pair of four-season chinos — just maybe?

 

Even though summer is well and truly here (being past Memorial Day and all), it seems like there’s still an adjustment period in terms of what works and what doesn’t in terms of all-season wear. On a personal level, that means it still feels weird to ditch even light wash denim in favor of shorts, for example. That’s why it’s a positive (and useful) thing to be able to incorporate simple seasonal style essentials into your #OOTD no matter the weather. And in this instance, a great pair of cotton chinos definitely qualifies as a four-season #menswear staple. So if you recognize the chinos at the top of this page, you’re in good company. Buck Mason has popped up from time to time on The Style Guide before (including the brand’s classic blue Oxford),  and they’re back again today for very good reason. Finding investment pieces that work in multiple outfits is a tough thing if you don’t know where to look (or even if you do), and the brand’s Sand Chinos are just the ticket to solving those issues — and although they come in shades ranging from Olive to Iron, the Sand color is the way to go this week. Crafted from a 10oz. cotton twill in a color that’s a versatile take on khaki, they feature a tailored fit, a mid rise and the sort of look that works with everything from a slub pocket tee to a slim polo and classic navy sneakers. Really, that’s just the start.

Easily wearable with classic sneakers and a white shirt.

Easily wearable with classic sneakers and a white shirt.

They’re American-made, so that’s another thing going for ’em. And although the price is higher than, say, the Taylor Stitch Standard Issue Chino, it’s just as worth it.  Particularly in the summer, they’ll work just as well as your favorite pair of classic dark denim. Pair these with a slim white henley and brown leather sneakers for crisp weekend style, or toss these on with a cheeky graphic tee and chukka boots for a night out. And during the work week, they’re an especially solid style move — with a slim chambray shirt and brown suede wingtips, they’ll set you apart from other folks at the office — in a good way.  And even for an outdoor wedding, they’ll do the trick. Sharp leather loafers and a white chambray shirt are the ideal complements for such a style scenario, and they’ll do you well in cold weather with a  shawl cardigan and thermal henley. So that’s 12-month style for one price up front — not a bad deal, right? Let me know what you think over on Twitter, and thanks for reading!

Have you tried out Buck Mason chinos? How would you style this pair?

 

 

 

by Beau H.

Online Shopping Picks: The Best Ways to Wear Green on St. Patrick’s Day

Editor’s note: Click here for more online shopping picks covering seasonal style trends.

We’re now about a week out from the holiday everyone loves to, eh, ‘over-celebrate’ — St. Patrick’s Day. In a bustling metropolis like NYC (and particularly at my alma mater, Michigan State University — Go Green!), things can get a little, er, rowdy. It’s fun to have a nice time, but everything in moderation — yes? Whether you’re taking the day off or heading into the office as per usual, there’s still the tendency to want to go full-on festive for an occasion like this, particularly one that involves so much color. We’ll have a full outfit suggestion coming at ya early next week, but if you’re looking to stand out subtly with one piece o’ green in your wardrobe, start with the below picks.

#1. GREATS Brand Pronto in Cargo — $199

A vintage runner-style silhouette updated with premium Italian materials.

A vintage runner-style silhouette updated with premium Italian materials.

GREATS consistently churns out excellent sneakers for more-than-fair prices given the quality and construction built into them, and the Pronto in Cargo is a silhouette that’s a prime example of this. It’s got classic retro vibes, yet the neutral dark green color keeps it subtle and modern — especially for this occasion. It’s understated enough to the point where it doesn’t scream “Hey, I’m wearing green!” Pair it with dark denim and a lightweight wool blazer for some high-low St. Paddy’s Day style.

#2. JackThreads The Daily Vee in Olive — $18

A trim fit and understated color make this tee a nice option for the holiday.

A trim fit and understated color make this tee a nice option for the holiday.

When subtly and simple style is the name of the game (and it truly should be on this holiday), JackThreads continually delivers. The value for its basics is excellent when compared to the price point — if you read this blog consistently, you know I’m a fan of the brand. This olive tee is a different take on green — it’s far from the green dye in the Chicago River. And in a slim fit, you can certainly rock this blazer under a charcoal cardigan or a denim jacket if your day leans more casual.

#3. The Tie Bar Checks & Balance Pocket Square — $10

A refined combination of green-and-white to counter those less-than-refined St. Patrick's Day situations.

A refined combination of green-and-white to counter those less-than-refined St. Patrick’s Day situations.

If you’re very into keeping things toned-down on St. Patrick’s Day, a pocket square is perhaps the best way to incorporate some subtle green into your outfit. And the Checks & Balance Pocket Square provides just enough visual interest, what with that white diamond pattern over a silk twill green body. Rock it with a slim khaki blazer, grey chinos and a white Oxford — it’s a stylish combo that’ll turn heads for the right reasons* (*Disclaimer: If you have a few too many at the bar after work, that’s on you).

#4. Richer Poorer London Socks — $12

Part blue, part green and all simple style.

Part blue, part green and all simple style.

Another inexpensive and simple way to take on green for the holiday, Richer Poorer socks provide nice value for the price. This green-and-teal combo swings a little further away from going full-on green but again, if you want some understated color in your outfit — here you go. Heck, you could even wear a work ensemble as you normally might, throw on the socks and call it good (these would sit well under some slim khaki chinos and brown suede chukka boots).

#5. Bonobos Waffle Crewneck in Vine, $78

Easy to wear thanks to the slim fit, textured cotton and subtle shoulder detailing.

Easy to wear thanks to the slim fit, textured cotton and subtle shoulder detailing.

Bonobos likes to mix things up when it comes to seasonal knitwear, and this waffle knit made from soft, textured cotton embodies that perfectly. The slim cut is a positive, as is a color that, yet again, doesn’t scream bright green. Interesting details like the left shoulder buttons give this more of a crewneck sweater vibe than a plain thermal might, so feel free to rock it over a blue chambray shirt for a change of pace. Be prepared for some anti-green backlash perhaps (“Someone dressed up for St. Paddy’s Day!”), but know that you’re doing so in style.

As you plan out outfits for St. Patrick’s Day, it’s best, like we talked about before, to exercise some moderation and restraint when others likely won’t. Of course, this is coming from a guy who loves Guinness the 364 other days of the year. But hopefully, the above suggestions get you thinking in the right direction — and stay tuned for a full outfit suggestion coming early next week. Until next time!

-Beau
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Florsheim

by Beau H.

Onward: Packing for a Motor City New Year’s Eve and Recapping 2015

Editor’s note: To see more travel style posts, click here.

Rolling up the ol' (Gustin Spring Plaid) shirt sleeves to get to work on more content for 2016. Thanks for reading!

Rolling up the ol’ (Gustin Spring Plaid) shirt sleeves to get to work on more content for 2016. Thanks for reading!

As I think back on 2015 and the opportunities I received through my day job in fashion PR and through writing on this blog and elsewhere, I’m nothing but extremely grateful. I’m grateful for the amazing people I’ve met, from fellow bloggers to readers, and the excellent brands I’ve gotten to work with on reader giveaways and product reviews. — lots of great businesses run by even better people. I’m equally grateful for the cool ongoing features that have developed (however small) at The Style Guide — including the Style Pick of the Week and Friday Read series — and I’m especially grateful for those that have taken the time to read this blog.  Of course, I’m really grateful for the support of my family and friends above everything, who’ve read these posts, offered their feedback and snapped most of the photos of me you see here — and that’s on top of everything else!
I hope you like what you’ve read, and I hope you’ve enjoyed the journey along the way, whether you’ve stopped here for a new wardrobe on a budget or just sought out a great style upgrade or two to improve your closet. 2016 will definitely bring more menswear content, from product reviews and style suggestions to brand profiles, along with travel style posts. It’s become one of my favorite things to do, and I’ve immensely enjoyed seeing everywhere from Greece and Italy to Los Angeles and Grand Rapids in the past few months.

Packing a soon-to-be-reliable United By Blue duffle bag once again.

Packing a soon-to-be-reliable United By Blue Mt. Drew Duffle bag once again. Leather luggage tag by Owen & Fred.

So it’s only fitting that, to cap off 2015, I’ll be in Detroit for the weekend to visit with college friends, watch my alma mater Michigan State play in the College Football Playoff and explore more of an up-and-coming city. That means I might not be as formal as James Bond in this New Year’s Eve Style Suggestion, but maybe one day? Of course, it wouldn’t a true road trip if I didn’t bring some of my favorite picks along with me (sans tuxedo and handgun). As on my Christmas trip to Florida, I’ll be packing great gear in my new favorite bag, the sturdy United By Blue duffle you see above.

Cozy gear for a cold weekender. French Terry Nomad Joggers by Bonobos. White henley by Pistol Lake. Collegiate Bomber by JackThreads.

Cozy gear for a cold weekend. French Terry Nomad Joggers by Bonobos. White henley by Pistol Lake. Collegiate Bomber by JackThreads.

As the forecast in Michigan calls for lots of chilly weather, I’m definitely packing to stay as warm as possible, from my new Bonobos French Terry Nomad Joggers and a JackThreads Collegiate Bomber, to my ever-reliable Pistol Lake Henley — each should definitely prove suitable for weekend wear and a quick brunch run or two. Accompanying me on the trip will be a few reliable pairs of shoes — notably, my Reef Outhaul Lux Chukka Sneakers, which are quite comfortable and also right at home with the colder climes of the city thanks to the high-top cut. I’m also bringing along my Timberland West Haven Side Zip Boots, and (assuming my bag can fit ’em!) my trusty Thursday Boot Company Chocolate Suede Scout Chukkas.

Tried-and-true trip essentials -- a chambray shirt and suede chukka boots. Shirt by Todd Shelton. Chocolate Suede Scout Chukkas by Thursday Boot Company.

Tried-and-true trip essentials — a chambray shirt and suede chukka boots. Shirt by Todd Shelton. Chocolate Suede Scout Chukkas by Thursday Boot Company. Adventure Log by Word Notebooks.

To keep warm the rest of the time, I’m turning to some trusty style staples. Those will include my JackThreads Fisherman Cardigan, some tough Iron & Resin gloves and some comfortable American Trench socks. Throw in a merino watch cap (also from American Trench), and I should be all set. As to your own bag, a few sets of reliable socks– maybe ones with some premium fabric — are going to prove helpful and quite comfortable if you find yourself on the road a lot, too. I also plan to rock my Reef x H.D. Lee Workshirt — it’s a tough seasonal style essential, and I’d recommend you  look to layering pieces that can function as outerwear should you ever find yourself short on packing space. Of course, no trip to a cold-weather climate would be complete without tossing in a rugged shir; my Todd Shelton Chambray Shirt should do just the trick for layering over a henley (yes, I do love me some henleys!). I’m also happy to get to the chance to test out my beautifully crafted Hemingway Elbow Patch Shirt from Todd Snyder, by way of Santa — check back here on Saturday for more on that shirt.

A crisp watch that strikes a dress-casual balance is crucial for weekend trips. Watch by MVMT Watches.

A crisp watch that strikes a dress-casual balance is crucial for weekend trips. Watch by MVMT Watches.

As is proving customary on these trips, I’m looking to round out my bag with some travel-ready denim from Mott & Bow, and I’ll also be bringing a new pair of skinny Fulton chinos from Banana Republic — the caramel color should prove versatile and ready for just about anything, including travel days. To top it off, I’m definitely bringing a dependable pair of watches, including The 40 – Blue/Brown Leather from MVMT and my Invicta Pro Diver. So all of that stellar #menswear should leave just enough room for some everyday carry supplies — namely a new Public Supply notebook and some sweet Woodbuds headphones, plus my reliable BYRD Hairdo x Richer Poorer Dopp Kit. When you next hit the road, I’d say don’t skimp on those small goods- – brands like Richer Poorer and Baxter of California offer terrific travel-friendly toiletries kits, and it never hurts to bring along a notebook and nice headphones.

Now that my bag’s ready to go, I’m just about set to jet off for another fun weekend — and an incredibly fun way to close out 2015! I can’t wait to see what 2016 has in store, and I’ll hope you’ll be back! For now, know that I’ll be here with a Detroit edition of the Friday Read to kick off the new year, followed by the first of 2016’s weekly Style Picks on Saturday. Thanks so very much for reading, and as always…

Stay stylish,

-Beau


by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: American Trench Cotton Rugby Stripe Socks

Editor’s note: Expect these posts weekly detailing one standout item coveted by yours truly. Sometimes, these fit within budgetary restrictions and other times, they’re expensive splurges worth saving for. For more Wish List items from Beau, head here, and to see other Style Picks, head here.

Pick one or pick 'em all -- just one of several solid sock options from American Trench.

Pick one or pick ’em all — just one of several solid sock options from American Trench.

The photo and title of this post isn’t a mistake, trust me. We’re just talking about socks, right? Indeed. A great pair of socks is indispensable no matter the time of year, be they a no-show pair for the warm days of summer or something a little thicker — like these Cotton Rugby Stripe Socks from American Trench. You might recognize the brand from a past entry as part of this site’s Style Q&A series, and if you haven’t paid attention to date, it’s best time you start. The brand is all about crisp, clean, understated designs, something that sets them apart from other sockmakers who favor bolder, louder patterns. A pop of color or a great pattern is definitely to be commended, and those are the types of socks I wear myself more often than not  — yet when a knitwear company lets the fabrics and materials speak moreso than the pattern, that’s when you take notice. American Trench manufactures its socks at family-owned mills in North Carolina and Pennsylvania, and does so in small quantities — so you definitely get what you pay for. And at $44 for a 4-pack of the socks pictured above, that’s a very good thing.

The medium weight and striped pattern make these socks a great pair to ground complementary colors. Sky-blue chinos by Combatant Gentleman. Waterproof chukka boots by Timberland.

The medium weight and striped pattern make these socks a great pair to ground complementary colors. Sky-blue chinos by Combatant Gentleman. Waterproof chukka boots by Timberland.

That’s one thing to note about the brand’s socks overall — they are indeed pricey compared to your average pair. But you get the choice of some intriguing fabric blends — pima cotton and superfine merino are but two picks — plus a nice swath of colors fit to pair with everything from inky blue denim to grey chinos. And as you can see above, the brand’s Triple Stripe sock offers a solid complement to some sky-blue chinos, too. After testing out some pairs through this fall, these socks are every bit as good as advertised — and priced. They’re comfortable, breathable and stylish. There are small points of reinforcement (or what feels like thicker fabric) at heavier wear areas, and they don’t slide down your calves throughout the day thanks to a spandex-lycra blend. The option to select from some neat designs, like a zany-yet-reserved Fair Isle pattern, is another bonus. The pairs I’ve tried out — including those Fair Isle socks — fit comfortably in some sturdy boots, and they also fit in just fine with a nice pair of leather sneakers. Add all this onto the fact that they’re durable, comfortable and made in America, and you might not want to buy from another sock brand this fall — or any other season.

Do you own any socks from American Trench? How do you like your socks — wild and wacky, or more reserved?

Ben Sherman US

by Beau H.

Reader Giveaway Opportunity: Goorin Brothers

Rocking an unexpected style from a heritage hat brand. Read on to win a gift from Goorin Brothers! Unconstructed blazer by J. Crew. Heathered burgundy pocket tee by Steven Alan. Slim khaki chinos by Taylor Stitch. Chukka boots by Timberland. Glasses by Warby Parker.

Rocking an unexpected style from a heritage hat brand. Read on to win a gift from Goorin Brothers! Unconstructed blazer by J. Crew. Heathered burgundy pocket tee by Steven Alan. Slim khaki chinos by Taylor Stitch. Chukka boots by Timberland. Glasses by Warby Parker.

Editor’s note: Thanks to all who participated! And congrats to the giveaway winner, Ali N.! Stay stylish, folks.

There are some brands that do one thing so well, you can’t help but stop and take notice. Goorin Brothers, heritage hatmakers for more than a century, absolutely fit the bill. After seeing some of the brand’s shops around Brooklyn and Manhattan across the past six months or so — four shops in total — my interest was piqued. I connected with the brand’s lovely PR team and have since been fortunate enough to learn lots more about Goorin — and it’s no exaggeration to say it’s been all good things (read a full brand profile here). A nice hat is a style accessory that not all will be interested in, granted, but if you do decide to go that route, there’s no better place to look than Goorin. It’s a company that’s rooted in quality and family principles, and they make just about every hat style you can imagine, from felt fedoras to flatcaps and perhaps my personal favorite as seen above, a line of vintage ballcaps. But, it’s perhaps the more classic fedora or flatcap styles that pair best with all kinds of outfit combinations in the fall — from a rugged henley and bomber jacket to some sharp tailored wear. That’s the best mark of a great hat, as with any style item — versatility! And Goorin sure does craft them well, as they’re fit for any adventures you might find yourself on this season. I’m personally looking forward to breaking mine out as it gets colder in NYC, although they make several varieties fit for warmer weather. I just need to get my hands on one of the brand’s felt fedoras and I’ll be all set — I’d advise you do the same!

While I could go on about the brand, there’s a bigger upside to this post (assuming you’ve made it this far) — the chance to pick one up for yourself!

So, here are the goods — 1 lucky winner will receive one $150 gift card good for purchase at any Goorin Brothers shop (36 of ’em nationwide) or the brand’s Web site  — that should cover most hats on the site!

More crucially, that winner could be you! Here’s how to enter (and hopefully win):

  • Head to Instagram and be sure to follow both my Instagram account and the Goorin Brothers account
  • Like Wednesday’s Goorin Brothers-themed photo, and in the comments, tag a friend who you think could use a Goorin Brothers gift card — and by extension, a hat! Be sure to use the hashtag #StyleAdventures, too (and lastly, be sure to do so before 9 p.m. THURSDAY — we’ve extended it by one day!).
  • As per usual, the winner will be notified via Instagram Wednesday evening following the conclusion of the contest.

So those are the nuts and bolts of this giveaway — good luck!

Stay stylish,

-Beau

 

by Beau H.

Reader Giveaway Opportunity: Owen & Fred

A spread very similar to this one could be yours if you read on below! Photo courtesy of Owen & Fred.

A spread very similar to this one could be yours if you read on below! Photo courtesy of Owen & Fred.

Editor’s note: Although this giveaway has now closed, thanks so much to everyone who participated! And congrats to the winner of this Owen & Fred Essentials set, Mitchell Y.  Thanks again and stay stylish!

If you recall way back in April on this blog, I featured a little men’s lifestyle and design outfit called Owen & Fred. If you’re not familiar with the brand, you’ll definitely be pleased with what you find. They stock excellent essentials that anyone can appreciate, even if you’re not a design nut. The brand’s lineup is something to behold (and check out in person if you can find a retailer near you). From brass business card holders crafted in the U.S. to collar stays & cufflinks, not to mention sturdy and durable bags for your commute and beyond, O&F really does it all – including art work for your walls.  The brand was founded on the principles of exceptional design, quality and craftsmanship back in 2012, and shot to prominence with features in, among others, GQ. I myself am fortunate enough to have put their brass bottle opener to frequent use — it’s a worthy addition to any craft beer fan’s cabinet. I’ve also tried out what they call the World’s Greatest Laundry Bag, and I can tell you that it’s rightfully named; that bag has held up well! So I knew the brand’s offerings were worth another look — particularly for those who read this blog (and thank you for that, by the way!). (Editor’s note: To get $10 off via the brand’s site, click here!).

I met up with founder Mike Arnot back at Capsule Show in July to check out what the brand had on-tap for the coming months. The assortment was, as to be expected, very well-curated and cleanly designed. The little touches an Owen & Fred product can add to even a small area aren’t to be undersold — that’s how well-made they are (in my opinion). So that’s why I’m teaming up with the brand to help you revamp your office, dorm desk or work space this fall! One lucky winner will get all the goods you need to hone in that creative focus and ramp up your productivity. Namely, we’re giving away the following, with details on how to win thereafter:

So, you like what you see? Here’s how to win!

  • Head to my Instagram account and be sure you’re following both myself and Owen & Fred
  • Like either Monday or Tuesday’s photo and in the comments below, let me know what creative endeavors, projects or just plain ol’ work you plan to undertake using your new Owen & Fred essentials! Be sure to use the hashtag #OwenAndFred, too.

It’s as simple as that! As per usual, the winner will be notified via Instagram once selected. Good luck to those who enter and thank you, as always, for reading!

Stay stylish,

-Beau

Ernest Alexander

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Combatant Gentleman Chinos

Editor’s note: Expect these posts weekly detailing one standout item coveted by yours truly. Sometimes, these fit within budgetary restrictions and other times, they’re expensive splurges worth saving for. For more Wish List items from Beau, head here, and to see other Style Picks, head here.

 

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

 

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

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

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

Ben Sherman US

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

Florsheim