May 23, 2017May 7, 2017 by Beau H.

#OOTD: What to Wear to a Weekend Barbecue

You just got word that there’s a barbecue this weekend. Craft beer? Check. Burgers? You got it. But what #menswear to wear to man the grill or just hang out while sipping brews? We’ve got you covered today on The Style Guide — from A-to-Z, this is the place to be. It’s a little bit different than, say, dressing for a spring bar crawl — it’s more casual and requires gear that’s as stylish as it is suited to wear to play a little pick-up football. And you’ll want an extra layer in case the party runs late or it gets chilly out there. So, we’re keeping it cool and laidback with today’s #OOTD. You’ll recognize upgraded basics — from a classic bomber jacket to a sturdy striped tee — and you’ll recognize tried-and-true favorites like stylish brown leather sneakers and slim light wash jeans. See? Comfortable, casual and classic style at its finest. But, I won’t spoil all the fun now. Check out the full set of #menswear picks below, chime in on Twitter and see how I style my daily ensembles over on Instagram (lotsa clothes on the ‘Gram, trust me). Enjoy, cheers and be sure to man the grill!

Start with a supremely high-quality tee and go from there with casual spring layers.

The T-Shirt: Outerknown Shonan Stripe Pocket T-Shirt, $62.98 — Let’s start things off the right way — with a sustainably made and uniquely stylish striped pocket T-shirt. Yes indeed, the Outerknown Shonan Stripe Pocket T-Shirt is pricey, yes …. but ultimately worth it. Just don’t spill any mustard on it.

The Jacket: Outlier Supermarine Soft Core Bomber Jacket, $595 — First off, this jacket surely is pricey. But why go for a paper-thin bomber jacket from a fast-fashion retailer when you can get a comfortable, stylish and very performance-ready piece fit for spring breezes and beyond?

The Jacket: Flint and Tinder All-American Washed Jeans in Slim Tapered, $98 — I’m all for investing in quality — and that’s exactly what Flint and Tinder brings to the table. These slim-fit light wash jeans have a pleasing light wash that’s perfect for spring.

The Sneakers: Pikolinos Vic Trainers, $200 — While you might be tempted to break out the flip-flops, leave those in the closet this time. These beautifully crafted leather sneakers feature everything from a rich brown colorway to cool and eye-catching stitching.

The Watch: Nautica SYD Leather Watch, $125 — Nothing screams barbecue-ready style than a tough, rugged and stylish watch. This Nautica timepiece looks unique and crisp — it can definitely stand up to a game of backyard football, too.

The Bottle Opener: Billykirk Bottle Opener, $17.98 — Here’s the piece de resistance, perhaps the most crucial item in your everyday carry for this barbecue — the Billykirk Bottle Opener should be the hit of the party, ehh?

The Beer: Founders Brewing All Day IPA, Price Varies — It might be the Michigan native in me coming through, but there might not be a better summer BBQ beer than Founder’s All Day IPA. I absolutely love visiting the brewery when I trek back to Grand Rapids, and that won’t change soon!

The Bag: Nisolo Lori Tote, $134.98 — OK, so you’ve got your six-pack of craft beer, you’ve got your slim bomber jacket, you’re wearing your stylish striped tee — how are you going to carry everything you need to carry? In the durable and handsome Nisolo Lori Tote, I should say.

And, there it is. All set for your first summer barbecue? With classic, easy-to-wear pieces like a slim bomber jacket and the Outerknown Shonan Stripe Pocket T-Shirt, I’d say you should be all set for anything that comes your way. And a pair of denim like the Flint and Tinder All-American Washed Jeans in Slim Tapered are about as versatile and stylish as it gets when it comes to a casual pair of jeans for the weekend. Add in essential everyday carry pieces like a tough Nautica watch, well-made leather sneakers and the strong Nisolo Lori Tote and you can get from the barbecue and back in style. Oh, and don’t forget an absolute must-have — that’d be the Billykirk Bottle Opener, folks. Alright, I’ll see you at the grill!

Thanks for reading and stay stylish,

-Beau

May 16, 2017May 16, 2017 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?”

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.

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

February 28, 2017July 1, 2021 by Beau H.

#OOTD: The Waxed Trucker Jacket You Need Now

Editor’s note: You’ve surely seen this hashtag lots of different places, including on Instagram. But how does that carry over to real life? The #OOTD series will take one great item and put together a versatile, stylish outfit around it. Look for past features here.

The men’s jacket you wear every single day needs an upgrade. Now, first of all — am I commanding you to buy a great waxed trucker jacket? Do you really need one? Maybe. Maybe not. But, hey — if you feel like that’s an outerwear addition to make here in late February, The Style Guide has you all set. You’ll probably recognize the brand we’re featuring below, but that’s a side note to why this unique, rugged and yet easily wearable silhouette can work with different iterations of your #OOTD in the weeks to come. If we’re lucky, we’ll start to see slightly warmer temperatures in the weeks ahead — so, it’ll hopefully be time to shelve your polar vortex gear for pieces that are a little more temperate. That’s where a flannel-lined trucker jacket comes in. You’re getting both warmth and weather-beating functionality (in the event of a rainy spring day) with a bit of dashing and rugged appeal thrown in. And who doesn’t love that? The unique thing about the particular jacket shown below is the rock-n-roll edge it adds to the overall ensemble — but I won’t spoil it any further. Read ahead, skim if you must and follow yours truly over on Instagram and Twitter to keep up with the #menswear fun.

Mixing a heritage-quality jacket with a bit of rock-ready edge — and classic menswear essentials, to boot.

The Jacket: Flint and Tinder Flannel-Lined Waxed Trucker Jacket, $198 — It’s a good thing there’s still plenty of stock left for this jacket. As I understand it, it’s been quite the hot seller over at Huckberry — if it’s sold out in your size, the JackThreads Stupp Suede Trucker Jacket provides a similarly edgy silhouette.

The Shirt: Abercrombie & Fitch Garment Dye Oxford Shirt, $39 — I’d urge us all to try mixing a classic piece — like a timeless white Oxford — with an edgier staple (a tough trucker jacket) this season. It’ll work out just fine.

The Sweater: JackThreads Donegal Sweater, $29.98 — Spring weather might be around the corner *crosses fingers* … but we can’t shelve those sweaters yet. Pick up this nicely textured number for a bargain in case it’s chilly or rainy in the weeks ahead.

The Denim: JackThreads Slim Stretch Selvedge Denim, $44.98 — Let’s make it two in a row with stylish JackThreads gear — this pair of stretch selvedge boasts a unique color and a slim fit.

The Boots: Thursday Boots Diplomat Boots in Cognac Suede, $199 — We love ourselves some Thursday Boots on the blog, and this particular pair feels and looks mobile and flexible for the approaching spring season.

The Socks: Flint and Tinder Inventor Socks, $17.98 (Three-pack) — Finish this outfit off with Flint and Tinder socks to complement that waxed trucker jacket.

The Watch: Form-Function-Form Horween Leather Timex Expedition, $79.98 [Also available in Brown Leather] — This Expedition watch — with its more rugged, outdoors-y vibe — is finished off handsomely with a beautiful Form-Function-Form Horween leather strap.

The Everyday Carry: Tactile Turn Stainless Steel Slider Pen, $58.98 — Who doesn’t love a durable, useful pen — ehh? It should come in seriously handy every single day. If you’re out and about for a solo lunch, a notebook can be your best companion when it comes to brainstorming ideas (or just doodling).

Have you bookmarked any of the above pieces for later? If that’s the case, I think you’re gonna like the results. The key to this look is starting with an unexpected piece of outerwear that’s actually highly versatile — the trucker jacket hits the sweet spot in terms of transitional, head-turning style. And we can all get more use out of everyday staples like a classic Oxford and a textured Donegal sweater. Of course, I’m never one to pass up a beautifully accented timepiece like the Form-Function-Form Horween Leather Timex Expedition, and you might be surprised at how handy a small item like the Tactile Turn Stainless Steel Slider Pen can be. OK, ready for that snow to melt? That makes two of us. Stop by The Style Guide Facebook page in the meantime, and join us for another applause-worthy men’s style post tomorrow.

Here’s to you and thanks for reading,

-Beau

January 31, 2017February 7, 2017 by Beau H.

#OOTD: Rugged Winter Style

Every once in a while, you just want to mix up your style — right? Maybe if you’re a guy who frequently suits up , you feel compelled to dress down off-duty. Even if you find yourself dressing in business casual style for the office — rather than a suit — it still pays to have a few go-to, off-the-clock looks on-hand. And when you throw in the dual challenges of navigating winter weather while looking sharp, it adds another piece to the puzzle. That’s what we’re tackling today — we’ll get a bit out of the box in terms of classic winter style and go just a tad more casual and a tad more rugged. The basic building blocks of a crisp winter ensemble are still there — starting with classic dark denim and tough leather boots — but the way in which the outfit builds from the ground up will hopefully get you thinking about ways to refresh your style this year. Intrigued yet? Check out the full #OOTD below, and join us on Instagram and Facebook for more #menswear content, 24/7.

Layering up a shawl cardigan for rugged winter style — as the post title implies.

The Cardigan: Iron & Resin Fletcher Cardigan,$110.98 — Here at the dear old Style Guide, we sure do love a shawl-collar cardigan. And seeing as this one is available via Huckberry in a warm cotton-fleece blend, it’s worth the buy. You could always add a crisp, functional Outerknown parka if you need an extra layer.

The Henley: Bonobos Slub Jersey Henley in Off-White Microstripe, $55 — Shawl-collar cardigan? Check. Rugged henley? Check. It’s as classic and comfortable of a winter style combo as it gets.

The Scarf: S.N.S Herning Torso Scarf, $96.60 — Nearly a hundred bucks is a lot to drop on a scarf — but when it provides significant warmth and style to rival that of the revered Daniel Craig in “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo,” it’s worth doing.

The Denim: Nudie Jeans Grim Tim Denim, $124.98 — Whether you consider yourself a rock star or not, there’s something to be said for owning a slick, slim pair of black denim. The Grim Tim is that pair — and they’re a nice way to switch it up from dark indigo selvedge, too.

The Boots: G.H. Bass Buxton Boots, $425 — We talk a lot about investment-worthy purchases that convey great style and timeless appeal — the G.H. Bass Buxton Boots are one such purchase, and they add a bit of a unique contrast to the black denim.

The Socks: Wigwam Merino Lite Hiker Socks, $12.98 — Sometimes, you just need comfortable, functional socks that fight the chill — if that’s the case, pick up a couple pairs of these Merino Lite Hiker Socks.

The Watch: Standard Issue Instruments Pilot Mission Timer, $199.98 — Yet another standout piece of gear sold by Huckberry, the Pilot Mission Timer is tough, practical and rugged. Don’t worry about the black strap-brown boots color combo — it works in this casual ensemble.

The Hat: Columbiaknit Watch Cap, $17 — Just like the Merino Lite Hiker Socks, functionality and warmth is sometimes the name of the game. This cap is more than fairly priced, too.

The Gloves: Hestra Granvik Gloves, $180 — They might not be pictured in the above grid, but that doesn’t mean you don’t need reliable, tough winter gloves — Hestra is the place to go in this case.

Alright, let’s bundle up and get out there this winter. When you start with well-fitting basics — like a slub jersey henley — and add a tough-yet-comfortable Iron & Resin shawl-collar cardigan, you’ve got the foundation of a warm winter outfit. In fact, it’s this very outfit that I frequently find myself wearing when it’s chilly. At any rate, slim black denim and rough-and-tumble leather boots are essentials in any season, especially cold weather, and the overlooked details — like warm winter socks and a nice winter hat — are just as critical to keep in mind before you step outside. And if it’s a new watch you need, something as functional and dependable as the Pilot Mission Timer should get you where you’re going with plenty of time to spare. Any questions? Comments? Feedback? Let me know in the comments below!

Stay warm out there and thanks for reading,

-Beau

January 17, 2017January 2, 2017 by Beau H.

#OOTD: Classic Winter Style

Welcome to another edition of the #OOTD series here on The Style Guide. At this point in the winter season, hopefully, you’ve got a closet stocked chock-full of style essentials — you know, things you can wear (and enjoy wearing) every day, like a slim topcoat , a great pair of dark denim, a sharp casual watch … you get the picture. If you don’t yet have those pieces, that’s what today’s #OOTD will solve. We’re talking a classic-yet-modern ensemble that fits in at the office on a casual day, out at the bar or stepping out on a weekend coffee date. It’s focused on taking easy-to-wear pieces — some of which you might recognize from past posts — and putting it all together in one sharp combination. After all, that’s what great style is all about — and if you’re hard at work on your 2017 menswear resolutions, versatility should be top of mind. So, it’s all on the table; let’s get to it, shall we? Leave any feedback on Twitter or in the comments below — let’s get shopping!

Some classic pieces, some new pieces and a combination that’s ready for nearly anything.

The Shirt: Flint and Tinder Texas Moleskin Shirt, $89 — So, let’s start off this ensemble with a unique take on the traditional Oxford — this American-made moleskin shirt should be warm, slim-fitting and versatile (add a grey wool tie if you need to sharpen it up a bit).

The Cardigan: JackThreads Cable Knit Cardigan, $59 — Here’s yet another layering piece that switches things up from the typical shawl-collar cardigan — note the cable knit and unique silhouette.

The Topcoat: JackThreads Tieman Topcoat, $149 — Is there ever really a bad time to throw on a camel topcoat? Not really — and this sharp, double-breasted number adds a bit of tailored flair to this casual #OOTD.

The Denim: Flint and Tinder All-American Jeans in Straight Tapered, $98 — While you could also reach for a pair of classic slim chinos, American-made denim in a slim-straight cut is the slightly more rugged, casual option if you’re putting together a weekend brunch ensemble, for instance.

The Boots: G.H. Bass Camp Moc Toe Ranger Boots, $160 — For a combination of prep style and rugged good looks, it’s tough to beat these handsome moc toe boots.

The Socks: American Trench Fair Isle Sock in Merino and Cashmere, $28.98 — When a brand like American Trench consistently delivers superbly high-quality socks, you make it a point to buy ’em in bunches — right?

The Belt: Anderson’s Stretch Woven Leather Belt, $114.98 — How do you offset a mix of casual and dressy pieces? With a textured leather belt that’s incredibly well-made, that’s how.

The Watch: Timex + Todd Snyder Red Wing Leather Chronograph, $158 — Last but not least — if you want a watch that’s rugged, functional and handsome, this is the one to buy. It’s the perfect complement to this versatile ensemble — in my humble opinion, that is.

And with that, we’ve reached the end of this week’s #OOTD — what did you think? It’s tough to be a slim-fitting, classic American-made moleskin shirt, particularly when you offset that with unique layers like a navy cable-knit cardigan and a classic camel topcoat. Throw on a classic, durable pair of essential dark blue denim and pair the look up with rough-and-tumble (yet versatile) moc toe boots for style that’ll work throughout the work week and on into a weekend happy hour. And if you needed an excuse to buy a stylish leather watch, that Red Wing Leather Chronograph is just what the doctor ordered. OK, do you have all those notes down? Somewhat? Good, good. Let me know what you think in the comments — and thanks, as always, for reading!

-Beau

December 27, 2016December 18, 2016 by Beau H.

#OOTD: How to Layer Up This Winter

So, first things first — I hope y’all had a great Christmas. I know I enjoyed spending mine with family in lovely, sunny Florida (you can check out the full trip recap here). And with that being said, it’s time to get back to dressing for a decidedly colder NYC winter — perhaps it’s chilly where you are as well, and if that happens to be the case, well … The Style Guide is here to help with the latest entry in our #OOTD series. We’ve discussed casual cold-weather style moves this fall and winter, from dressing for a weekend coffee date to layering up with a crewneck sweater. The below #OOTD builds on that approach with a bit more tailored flair. It seems there re a myriad number of ways to go about dressing for a cold day — either on the weekend or during the week — but what about when you feel like mixing more formal pieces into a casual ensemble? Say, when dressing for Sunday brunch and a stroll around town, or a nightcap at your favorite local watering hole — times when you could wear jeans but, well, don’t quite feel like it. We’ve all been there, right? The below #OOTD mixes in picks that are both classic and casual, durable and slightly dressier. I won’t ruin all the fun, though — the entire #menswear ensemble is below. As always, your comments are appreciated and welcomed — seriously!

A mixture of rugged and refined pieces for winter layering.

The Jacket: Grayers Montana Waxed and Quilted Parka, $225 — The jacket in this look — available via the fine folks at Huckberry — is exhibit A when it comes to a heritage-inspired, yet surprisingly versatile, piece. And if you live in a more temperate climate, the Taylor Stitch Rover Jacket also works in this instance.

The Shirt: JackThreads Plaid Poplin Shirt, $39 — The great folks at JackThreads do casual shirting as well as anyone in the business, and this slim-fitting plaid shirt provides a welcome pop of winter-friendly color. You could always throw on something like the Todd Snyder x Champion Pocket Sweatshirt if it’s particularly cold.

The Pants: JACHS NY Navy Herringbone Suspender Pants, $125 — This is the part of the ensemble where high-low style comes into play — these nicely tailored cotton herringbone pants feature an eye-catching windowpane pattern that’s just different enough from the large plaid shirt to work.

The Belt: Tanner Goods Classic Belt in Hickory, $99.98 — First off, why a belt with suspender pants? Well, it’s nice to have the option, and not everyone owns a pair of suspenders — ya dig? And if you’re going to invest in a beautiful brown leather belt, one from Tanner Goods is the way to go.

The Boots: Thorogood Dodgeville Boots in Cognac, $375 — Maybe it’s just me, but I find it very hard to pass up a great pair of durable leather boots — and the Dodgeville Boots are equal parts handsome, tough and ready for situations both a bit dressier and more casual.

The Socks: United By Blue Ultimate American Sock, $29.98 — Lest we forget that it’s likely freezing outside when throwing on this outfit, you’re going to need tough, warm socks. The Ultimate American Sock has all the comfort you need.

The Watch: Timex + Todd Snyder Red Wing Leather Chronograph, $158 — If you haven’t acquainted yourself with the ongoing Timex + Todd Snyder collaboration, this is a great time to start. This particular watch is tough, durable and handsome.

The Scarf: Abraham Moon for J. Crew Wool Scarf, $59.50 — Even right down to your accessories, you can add a few dressier touches. This beautiful plaid wool scarf plays nicely off the orange plaid shirt and the windowpane trousers — and it’s relatively affordable for the quality.

So, do you feel prepared to take on the cold? Maybe? Just a bit? I hope so. The key with dressing for cold winter days is mixing tried-and-true favorites with unique pieces — that is to say, it’s nice to be able to wear your favorite brown leather boots with something a bit more eye-catching, like the Grayers Montana Parka. Tough and rugged accessories like the reliable-as-heck United By Blue Ultimate American Socks are going to provide nice contrast to dressier pieces (like the J. Crew wool scarf), and you can hardly ever go wrong with a heritage-inspired leather watch from the likes of Todd Snyder. Don’t forget that you can mix and match these pieces during the work week, too — particularly the navy windowpane trousers. If you’ve got questions or feedback on this #OOTD, let’s hear it in the comments. Layer up and stay warm out there!

-Beau

December 22, 2016December 22, 2016 by Beau H.

#OOTD: Dressing for a Casual Christmas

OK, so we’re coming at you with a Thursday edition of the #OOTD series. Namely, we’re just a few days out from Christmas — that came up quick, yes? Hopefully, you turned to The Style Guide (or another one of your favorite menswear blogs?) to knock out your holiday shopping. Still need a gift for her? Fear not. Or maybe you want to add an item or two to your holiday men’s style wish list? Easy does it. Oh, and that leaves another crucial question — what are you going to wear for the occasion? Whether you’ve got one last holiday party to dress for or if you’re approaching the day with a bit more formality, we’ve got you covered when it comes to dressing for Christmas. And that’s why today’s #OOTD covers another potential holiday style scenario: the casual holiday. Maybe you’ll be spending the day at your house and venturing out later for a movie or a drink with friends, or perhaps you’re taking it easy while on a holiday trip over the river and through the woods– either way, dressing with some polish is key. We’re not talking about going overboard — leave the velvet dressing gown at home. No, we’re talking about a crisp, casual outfit that looks stylish, fits great and is a bit better-suited for venturing out in public than your pajamas. If you choose to stay in your PJs all day — hey, nothing wrong with that. But if you want to look a bit more cleaned up while still feeling comfortable? I’m your guy … or rather, the below #OOTD is the one to shop. Chime in over on Twitter if you’ve got questions, additions or deletions when it comes to this look. Hit me up on Instagram if you want to see how I’m styling my Christmas Day #menswear picks, while we’re here.

Cozy, casual, comfortable and yet … quite put-together.

The Cardigan: Abercrombie & Fitch Belted Shawl Cardigan, $75 –We’re kicking things off with a really unique, effortlessly stylish sweater from the new and very improved Abercrombie & Fitch — the Camel color is eye-catching and pairs nicely with our other casual picks.

The T-Shirt: Barking Irons Brando Tee, $49 (2-Pack) — You could always reach for a classic chambray shirt if you wanted something a bit more cleaned up, but a textured cotton tee with unique design details — like a scalloped hem and slightly raised sleeves — is a cool, effortless pick.

The Denim: Mugsy Jeans Kinzie Denim, $98 — Who said denim has to be uncomfortable? Mugsy jeans are built with more room in the crotch and a ton of flexibility for a great — plus, the light wash is more casual, and these jeans look a bit more crisp than tailored sweats.

The Watch: Timex + Todd Snyder Red Wing Leather Chronograph in Grey, $158 — Even if you’re just hanging around the house, it can be fun to throw on a stylish casual watch — especially one from Todd Snyder.

The Belt: J. Crew Factory Braided Leather Belt, $29.99 — Let’s keep it casual on the accessories front — a trusty braided leather belt is comfortable and mixes in some cold-weather texture.

The Socks: CHUP Churro Socks, $35 — Limited edition, nature-inspired prints on a comfortable pair of CHUP socks? Sign me up. They’re pricey, but very well-made and eye-catching — perfect holiday style, in short.

The Sneakers: SeaVees White Walls Mid-Cut Wintertide Sneaker, $98 — Sneakers in the winter? Yes, sir. You can always grab a pair of durable leather boots if snow is in the mix, but if it’s simply a bit chilly? These casual-yet-crisp mid-top sneakers are made with navy flannel fabric and blend right in with this ensemble.

The Grooming Kit: Harry’s Deluxe Truman Set, $35 — Just because it’s a casual Christmas doesn’t mean you shouldn’t get cleaned up a bit, ehh? This deluxe shaving set has everything you need to look great through the new year.

OK, we’ve got your unique, modern and comfortable belted cardigan, your classic T-shirt and slim stretch denim. Those are the building blocks of a nice cold-weather casual ensemble in fall or winter, yet they work particularly well for lounging around — yet looking great — this holiday season. When you complement those pieces with a durable leather watch and a pair of premium patterned socks, you’re set with a look that’s versatile and sharp. Navy flannel sneakers are a unique finishing touch, too. Of course, putting in a little extra effort when it comes to winter grooming essentials is a solid move, too — and if you happen to be spending some time with your significant other on Christmas, they’ll appreciate it. How will you be dressing for a casual Christmas? Or do you still have some holiday shopping to finish up before you worry about what you’re wearing? Again, check out our women’s holiday gift guide for quick and easy picks.

Stay stylish and enjoy the season!

-Beau

November 22, 2016November 16, 2016 by Beau H.

#OOTD: Business Casual Fall Style

So, we ran into a bit of a conundrum last week on The Style Guide when we talked about how to dress for a casual fall day. We’re nearly through November, and the weather’s been so up-and-down … how does one dress to meet those demands? And if you’ve got to switch from casual fall style to sharp fall style, just how do you do it? Particularly, how does one dress in business casual fall style? Maybe your office isn’t the type of place where a suit and tie is required (it seems few offices are nowadays) — heck, maybe it’s a place where a collared shirt isn’t needed all that often. But let’s say you want to up your game going into a prime cold-weather dressing season — or perhaps, you just need an excuse to refresh some business casual style staples. Now, we’ve talked about how to dress for a business casual office in the summer, but dressing for the fall is a bit different — for starters, you’ll be needing another layer or two depending on the weather. What other #OOTD tips do we have to share? Well my friends, you’ll just have to read on below. Oh, and if you’re scrambling for something to wear for Thanksgiving later this week? A few of the below pieces will come in just as handy for turkey time as they will for your next office meeting. Keep up with The Style Guide (AKA yours truly) on the daily via Twitter and Instagram, and leave any suggestions for this ensemble in the comments below. Deal? Deal.

Can you go wrong with a navy jacket & khaki five-pocket pants? Hardly.

The Jacket: Taylor Stitch Telegraph Jacket in Navy, $219.98 — Make no mistake, this jacket features a bit of a unique fabric blend, especially in chilly weather — textured wool & linen chambray aren’t exactly a regular fall combo. But for a four-season jacket with modern styling potential, it doesn’t get better.

The Topcoat: Old Navy Tweed Topcoat, $124.94 — If you were worried about staying warm on a chilly November or December day, don’t be. This Old Navy tweed topcoat is a heck of a bargain and features a nice fit.

The Shirt: Bonobos Jetsetter Dress Shirt in Solid Light Blue, $128 — With a range of customizable options — from the collar to your choice of pocket, plus a dialed-in Bonobos fit, this is a classic dress shirt — a tad pricey, but very solid. Note that we’re ditching the tie, but I’d say you should accessorize with a crisp textured pocket square.

The Pants: Flint and Tinder 365 Khaki Pant, $98 — OK, so you’ve got a sharp jacket and a stylish dress shirt covered … but your office is too casual to go with a full-on suit. Reach for a tailored pair of crisp five-pocket pants — versatile, slim-fitting and equally at home in spring or fall.

The Shoes: Johnston & Murphy Duvall Wingtips, $99.99 — While you could also go with a pair of classic leather chukka boots here, sharp wingtips are just as appropriate and lend a bit of polish to this ensemble.

The Socks: American Trench Merino and Cashmere Fair Isle Socks, $19.98 — Merino AND cashmere, you say? It’s a heck of a luxurious combo for socks, and these ones from American Trench should feel comfortable while fitting great.

The Watch: Armogan Spirit of St. Louis Chronograph, $194.98 –Watches from Armogan work particularly well for business casual situations, what with their crisp designs and slightly larger (and thus more casual) case sizings. Case in point — the Armogan Spirit of St. Louis Chronograph.

The Gloves: Hestra Edward Sheepskin Wool Lined Gloves, $125 (Available via East Dane) — Hey, we said it’d be cold, right? What better way to fight the chill in style than with a pair of rich brown leather gloves?

So, if you still feel like you’re not ready to dress for fall in business casual style, I’d suggest you snap up one or more of the above picks. Particularly when it comes to a crisp, sharp jacket like the Taylor Stitch Telegraph Jacket, you’re getting a piece that can work in multiple seasons with just a few extra layers. And that’s just as true with the ever-versatile Flint and Tinder 365 Khaki Pant — casual enough for a laidback office, and at home on a fall or spring weekend. When you throw in accessories like beautiful merino-and-cashmere Fair Isle socks and a handsome chronograph watch, you’re looking at a complete fall outfit. Got questions? Send me an email or drop us a line in the comments — and let me know how it works for you!

Stay stylish,

-Beau

September 13, 2016September 5, 2016 by Beau H.

#OOTD: The Best Way to Wear A Henley This Fall

Editor’s note: You’ve surely seen this hashtag lots of different places, including on Instagram. But how does that carry over to real life? The #OOTD will take one great item and put together a versatile, stylish outfit around it. Look for past features here.

So it’s not exactly the middle of summer anymore, is it? That’s a strange sensation if you’ve been used to dressing for the heat or packing up stylish beach gear. But if you’re anything like this #menswear writer, you relish the chance to dress for seasonal transitions and break out some of your favorite seasonal style staples. We’re talking pieces that are rugged and refined, ready for casual wear or able to be worn with a bit more tailored style in mind. And in the case of this week’s #OOTD, we’re looking at an outstanding piece for a seasonal transition — the ever-reliable slim long-sleeve henley. With its athletic-minded origins and rugged good looks, a great henley certainly works in the summer as well as the in-between period between summer and fall. But particularly when it’s made with marled fabric and plenty of quality and comfort, it’s the ideal early (and middle, and late) fall style piece — think of the below #OOTD as a weekend workhorse look. To get your mind right when it comes to stylish henleys, check out last year’s picks for the best men’s henleys for fall — and know that we’ll have a similar feature coming on this site in the weeks ahead. Oh, and how exactly should you style this durable staple? We won’t drop any hints up here — scroll below to check out the #OOTD, join in on the men’s style conversation at The Sty le Guide’s Facebook page, and check out this guy’s Instagram for daily style tips.

Just one way — but perhaps, the best way — to wear a henley this fall.

The Henley: Flint & Tinder Marled Long-Sleeve Henley, $62 — So, the henley shown here is a bit more expensive than you might be used to paying for a basic layering piece. But the quality, fit and styling potential is top-notch, and given the fact that it’s part of a slew of new additions to the Flint & Tinder product line, you should definitely pick up this slim henley.

The Coat: Old Navy Canvas Coat, $69.94 — It might initially be too hot to wear a canvas coat atop that henley, but know that when it gets slightly chilly and you need a crisp top layer, this rugged canvas coat is the perfect finishing touch.

The Chinos: JACHS NY Grey Bowie Fit Stretch Cotton Chino, $89 — Why go with chinos here as opposed to slim, dark denim? They lend the look a bit of high-low style appeal, and the fabric and slim fit are nice positives.

The Boots: CAT Footwear Russell Boot, $150 — Boots that blend different fabrics and textures (like wool and leather) with a sturdy ankle boot, moc toe combination are the perfect way to nod toward the chillier temperatures of fall — not to mention the rugged-refined vibe of this outfit.

The Socks: Flint & Tinder Inventor Socks, $17.98 (Three-pack) — If we’re going with a Flint & Tinder henley, might as well go with crisp, stylish and comfortable Flint & Tinder socks, ehh?

The Watch: Timex x Red Wing Waterbury Chrono, $158 — The Timex x Red Wing Heritage collaboration is a certified Style Guide favorite, and it’s the perfect mixture of toughness and style to offset the other fall-appropriate pieces in this #OOTD.

The Belt: Anderson’s Stretch Woven Leather Belt, $195 — If you want a belt that’s going to work as hard as you do, last forever (truly) and add some subtle texture to this overall look, the Anderson Stretch Woven Leather Belt is the way to go.

The Everyday Carry: United By Blue Lakeland Laptop Bag, $119.98 — Looking for a durable, dependable bag to haul around your laptop? This United By Blue laptop bag merges function and fashion, and it does so while promoting a good cause (the brand removes one pound of trash from oceans & waterways for every item sold).

Are you ready for some fall weather yet? Hopefully so. Dressing for the transitional period between the heat of summer and the chill of winter can seem taxing if you’ve grown used to wearing that short-sleeve chambray shirt for months on end, yet reaching for the right pieces can make it an enjoyable task. A marled henley is an essential for the colder months, and when mixed with dependable boots and refined chinos, it can work in even more style situations. On top of that, sharp socks that add a pop of color play nicely off dressy touches like that textured leather belt and rugged leather watch. And if it gets truly cold in the weeks ahead, you can always add a crisp shawl cardigan to this same ensemble. Have questions or more suggestions for the #OOTD series? Shoot me a note on Twitter.

Make room in your closet for a great henley — and stay stylish in the meantime!

-Beau

August 9, 2016August 9, 2016 by Beau H.

#OOTD: How to Dress for the 2016 Olympics

Editor’s note: You’ve surely seen this hashtag lots of different places, including on Instagram. But how does that carry over to real life? The #OOTD will take one great item and put together a versatile, stylish outfit around it. Look for past features here.

OK, so the title of this post isn’t 100 percent accurate — if you’re really competing in the Olympics, you’re probably not wearing the below ensemble. If you’re watching them, however — here we are. They only come up once every four years, so it’s likely that dressing to watch the 2016 Olympics might not have crossed your mind until now. But, like heading out to a warm-weather bar crawl or grabbing Sunday brunch, it’s a scenario that’s an opportunity to look your best when others might not be all that focused on doing so. It’s also a time that can be patriotic and pretty fun — who doesn’t love the Olympics, right? So that’s what this #OOTD is tackling — assuming you’re in a warm-weather area and possibly getting out and trying to recreate some athletic feats of your own in a game of backyard volleyball. With that in mind, this outfit is part sporty, part stylish and filled with a few atypical style upgrades. Those include an upgraded graphic tee and some crisp, classic sneakers — but you can see the full look below. For more daily style inspiration, check out yours truly on Instagram and follow along with my #menswear Twitter.

An ensemble that’s sport-inspired yet not packed with athletic gear, finished off with classic footwear and shades.

The T-Shirt: Todd Snyder Miami Capsule T-shirt, $68 — While you can definitely go with a classic, Olympics-inspired graphic tee, this tee is premium, slim-fitting and still sporty while remaining wearable for other occasions.

The Shorts: Mack Weldon Ace Short, $65 — A pair of shorts that works for both sporty backyard activities and lounging around in style can be tough to find; however, this pair has a more tailored look than one would expect, and still performs well.

The Sneakers: SeaVees Hermosa Plimsoll Standard, $78 — Highly affordable, highly wearable and able to stylishly offset the brighter blue shorts. An American classic.

The Socks: Sock Genius Villa Park Stripe No-show Sock, $10 — If you caught the recent Style Pick of the Week feature on Sock Genius, you know that these no-show socks are durable, breathable and comfortable — that makes ’em a winner.

The Watch: Stuhrling Aquadiver Manta Ray Watch, $ — You need a durable casual watch in your arsenal for a variety of reasons (particularly if you’re playing some Olympic-inspired backyard games), and the Stuhrling Aquadiver Manta Ray is a personal favorite that’s held up very well over time.

The Briefs: Flint & Tinder Heritage Boxer Briefs, $28 — Although they’re not pictured above, you can’t forget made-in-America boxer briefs that feature a custom woven waistband and comfortable fabric.

The Hat: Huckberry Explorer’s Cap, $39.98 — Swapping out your athletic logo ballcap for a more subtle, refined hat is a solid style upgrade that makes a difference — this is the perfect cap to wear for the occasion (note the blue-and-white color) and it can even dress down a classic polo and chino shorts.

The Sunglasses: Randolph Engineering Crew Chief Sunglasses in Gunmetal, $158.98 — To root on America, there’s no better pick than sunglasses that are, well, made right in America. These are durable, premium and wearable with your best suit, too.

The Must-Have: Owen & Fred NFL Leather Coasters, $29.98 — Whether you’re enjoying a cold brew or a plain lemonade, some stylish leather coasters are a nice accessory to have, particularly if you’re hosting.

While you can always go full-on patriotic and rock an official USA jersey (soccer jerseys seem to be a popular and relatively refined pick), working with the pieces in this #OOTD provides you with versatility the rest of the summer and beyond. A subtle graphic tee is a more premium pick than a plan tee, and French terry shorts that fit trim and eschew an athletic logo are a great pick, too. Plus, an upgrade ballcap is a solid style move, and a durable rubber-strap watch should have you set for more outdoor activities beyond the Olympics. Have other #OOTD suggestions or style questions? Head over to The Style Guide Facebook page for more #menswear.

How are you planning on dressing for the Olympics? Leave it all in the comments below!

The Style Guide

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

Tag / men’s style OOTD

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