Tag / men’s watches

by Beau H.

#OOTD: How to Dress Casually This Winter

We’re a month into the new year, and the question for all of us #menswear fans has to be: Are you sticking to your men’s style resolutions? Finding ways to improve your wardrobe and upgrade your style? Hopefully, that’s the case through these first few weeks of 2017 — and it’s that same approach that should apply to even seemingly casual, daily style. We’ve talked tailored winter style, we’ve talked classic winter style and now, we’re talking about a style situation that can sometimes be a difficult balance — casual winter style. For those times you want to be relaxed and comfortable, yet put-together. Even if you’re only making a quick morning coffee run or an evening beer run before hosting friends, putting your best foot forward is, as we always talk about at The Style Guide, crucial. So, we’re taking staple pieces of your wardrobe and switching them up a bit — a classic black jacket, sharp denim and your favorite pair of leather boots, for starters.  Read and shop the below #OOTD,  leave questions in the comments section below, and follow along on Instagram for more daily winter style inspiration.  Good luck out there!

Taking basic pieces and amping them up with improved fits, great fabric and yes, great style

Taking basic pieces and amping them up with improved fits, great fabric and yes, great style.

The Jacket: Reigning Champ Trail Jacket, $198.98 — Lest you think that this Trail Jacket is basic, its performance and classic silhouette speak for itself (namely, the terry cotton and nylon combo is functional and easily wearable).

The Henley: Faherty Brand Waffle Henley Sweater, $154.98 — Part henley, part sweater and a substantial upgrade from your standard weekend T-shirt — warm, cozy, ultra-stylish and yes, pricey.

The Denim: Abercrombie & Fitch Slim-Straight Performance Winter Jeans, $35.20 — Is there such a thing as winter denim? There certainly is — and for a great price, you’re getting excellent comfort, a tremendous fit and comfortable fabric.

The Hat: Ebbets Field Flannels for J. Crew Detroit Cubs Ballcap, $49.50 — A ballcap in this instance? Absolutely — we’re going for casual style after all, and this hat is a unique, vintage-inspired conversation starter.


The Boots: CAT Footwear Sutter Boots, $210 —  While you could always swap in a pair of handsome leather sneakers, tough leather boots are the way to go in the snow — plus, they add a bit of sharpness to this casual look.

The Socks: Richer Poorer Stitcher Classic Boot Sock, $16 — Comfort, quality and a bit of sport-inspired style — that’s what you’re getting with these crisp boot socks.

The Belt: Abercrombie & Fitch Woven Leather Belt, $30.80 — Add some seasonally appropriate texture and casual style with this nicely priced, versatile leather belt. Wear it with slim chinos and a navy blazer to the office, too.
Beckett Simonon

The Watch: Timex Weekender Chrono Oversized, $84.95 — It’s tough to beat the reliability, durability and simple style of a Timex watch for the price. You could also go with the sharp Form-Function-Form Horween Leather Weekender here.

The Briefcase: Joshu + Vela Zip Briefcase, $265 — Be it lugging around your laptop or your everyday carry, you need a great bag. The Joshu + Vela Zip Briefcase is handsome, beautifully made and durable — just what you need.

That’s a wrap on this week’s #OOTD — although it’s sometimes easy to let your style slip up in casual situations, resist the temptation to do so with functional, comfortable pieces that fit, feel and look great. Starting with the technical-yet-sharp Reigning Champ Trail Jacket and continuing with reliable layering pieces like the Waffle Henley Sweater, you’ll be set in terms of warmth and versatility. Brushed cotton denim and tough leather boots hardly ever fail, and they’re a nice way to complement more casual accessories, like that vintage-inspired J. Crew ballcap and Timex watch.  And no matter the occasion, a reliable bag like the Joshu + Vela Zip Briefcase  is the perfect way to carry your gear from point A to point B. OK, got all that? You bet.

Thanks for reading and stay stylish,

-Beau

by Beau H.

You’re Invited! Casio G-Shock Master of G Collection Event

Editor’s note: Thank you to Men’s Health and Casio G-SHOCK for sponsoring this post.  All opinions are my own.  Thanks for reading, and thanks for supporting the brands that support The Style Guide!

I would say one of the best — and certainly most fun — parts about being part of the menswear community in New York City revolves around connecting with standout brands, fellow writers and bloggers, and great causes. It makes for a busy schedule, but a heck of a fun time. And judging by the fact that you read this blog, we’re all along for this neat ride together. That’s why I’m excited to attend the Casio G-SHOCK Master of G Collection Event later this week in New York City. The event is brought to you by Men’s Health, it features the (very shoppable) Tourneau-exclusive Master of G Collection and perhaps most importantly …. you’re invited! If you’re a Style Guide reader in NYC, you’ll get to attend this neat event — all you need to do is send me an email! What exactly is on tap? Plenty, including free food and drinks!

Set to take place at the elegant Tourneau TimeMachine space (at 57th Street and Madison Avenue in Manhattan) this coming Thursday, December 1st from 6 to 8 p.m., you’ll get the chance to both shop and view up-close some truly sturdy, durable, rugged and well-designed watches via Casio’s G-SHOCK line. These are the type of watches that can brave the cold of winter, the depths of ocean dives and global travel — and your daily commute. Plus, you can hang with the excellent folks from the Men’s Health Style team and members of the G-SHOCK first responders team — real guys in the field who love and wear Casio watches in their line of work (hey, being a Navy SEAL calls for a pretty tough watch).

Lastly, a portion of the proceeds from watch sales at the event will go to the Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation, named in honor of firefighter Stephen Siller, who made the ultimate sacrifice on September 11. The foundation continues to support our first responders while honoring Stephen’s legacy — it’s crucially important work. Oh, and the winner of this year’s Ultimate Men’s Health Guy contest, Jed Ballard, will be there to share details of his journey. Jed’s story is a neat, inspiring one — you can read more of it via Men’s Health. So, does that sound good to you? Maybe? Hopefully? If you’ll be around and you’re down to attend, drop me a note via beauhayhoe@gmail.com, or DM me on Twitter @BoKnowsClothes! Sound good? Get it, got it, good? Alright!

by Beau H.

#OOTD: How to Dress for a Casual Summer Day

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.

Past #OOTD features here at The Style Guide have tackled everything from dressing up linen pants to dressing down a chambray blazer, but what about those times when you just …. need something in-between to wear? The title of this #OOTD might be a dead giveaway, and it might be a bit “boring,” but maybe you’re grabbing coffee and groceries and then a beer or lunch, maybe you’re strolling through the park  — but it’s a casual scenario, it might be hot (but it could get a bit breezy later), and you want comfort, good looks and an easy-to-wear #menswear ensemble.  That’s the aim of today’s #OOTD — it’s taking somewhat expected pieces (like classic, slim denim and a V-neck tee) and matching them up in a way that’s cool, simple and effortless (and more on why we’re sticking with denim in a second). If you want more daily styling tips or appreciate a great outfit grid (as I do), check out my Instagram feed for more — and chime in on Twitter with suggestions on topics for the next #OOTD. Got it? Good!
Huckberry

Pairing up items you've already got -- like a V-neck tee -- with sharp sunglasses, lightweight sneakers and a trusty denim shirt.

Pairing up items you’ve already got — like a V-neck tee — with sharp sunglasses, lightweight sneakers and a trusty denim shirt.

The Denim: Mott & Bow Slim Mercer Light Denim, $108 — Mixing things up from typical dark or light wash denim is a must, and the light tan color of these jeans matches up pleasingly well with blue and grey — as you’ll see below. Plus, they’re a little more versatile than shorts — although if it gets too hot, those would work fine here.

The T-Shirt: Life/After/Denim Club V-neck Tee, $58 — Here’s the casual part of the outfit –a garment-dyed V-neck tee in a rich blue color that fits slim and looks better than a standard crewneck tee.

The Overshirt: JackThreads The Denim Shirt, $34.99 — A light wash denim shirt is an unexpected summer style move — lest you think it’s too heavy, know that this shirt is lightweight and should offset the deeper blue of the tee nicely; wear it slightly buttoned up for a layered look, or leave it open during a stroll by the lake.

The Watch: Timex x Todd Snyder Mod Watch, $138 — Lest we get too far ahead of ourselves, know that this Timex x Todd Snyder watch is indeed on backorder — but it should ship soon, and you’ve got the perfect #OOTD ready when it does.

The Sneakers: UGG Freamon Sneakers, $110 — Am I the only one who didn’t know that UGG made men’s sneakers? Maybe so? Either way, this pair of chukka sneakers features water-resistant suede, lightweight traction & a nicely versatile color.

The Belt: Arcade Belt Co. Crawford Belt, $36 — Style comes down to the details, and this belt combines the look of a crisp tan leather belt with a high-tensile navy elastic for comfort.

The Socks: American Trench Pima Cotton Houndstooth Socks, $22.98 — American Trench reliably makes excellent socks that breath well even in the heat, and these should be no exception. Again, if it’s too hot, trade the denim for shorts and swap in a pair of stylish no-show socks.

The Sunglasses: Randolph Engineering Aviator Sunglasses in Gunmetal, $209.98 — When you’re pairing up classic pieces like a denim shirt and a V-neck tee, there’s no need to go overboard with your shades; classic aviators are the way to go here.

The above outfit might not gain you major street style snaps, but it’s effective, solid and reliably stylish because the basic pieces are well-made and well-fitting. Plus, accessories like a  crisp NATO strap watch and classic aviator sunglasses can take you anywhere the rest of the season. And that denim shirt can also work in the fall when layered over your favorite long-sleeve henley. The more scenarios you can take on with one outfit, the better off you’ll be — and that’s the case with this #OOTD. Got any feedback? Give us a shout in the comments below! And be on the lookout for a great reader giveaway coming up tomorrow.

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by Beau H.

Standout style: Rocking out at Panorama 2016

Editor’s note: Start here for personal style #menswear coverage.

The heat didn't stop me from rocking out in style. Linen-blend shirt by Old Navy. Silm Light Mercer Denim by Mott & Bow. Natural Diplomat Boots by Thursday Boots. Millbrook Sunglasses by Steven Alan Optical. Mod Watch from the Timex x Todd Snyder collab.

The heat didn’t stop me from rocking out in style. Linen-blend shirt by Old Navy. Silm Light Mercer Denim by Mott & Bow. Natural Diplomat Boots by Thursday Boots. Millbrook Sunglasses by Steven Alan Optical. Mod Watch from the Timex x Todd Snyder collab.

Here at The Style Guide, I’m pretty thankful to get to write about what I love every week. But it’s even better when I get to combine my passions into one post, as I did this weekend when I headed to the first-ever Panorama festival in NYC rocking some great men’s style gear and rocking out to excellent tunes along the way. Panorama was a unique merger of music, art and technology, curated by the same team behind Coachella – and Saturday’s lineup, featuring luminaries like Kendrick Lamar, Sufjan Stevens and The National, was stellar. The festival blended the buzzing atmosphere with some premium food and beverage curated in part by the great folks at Eater.com, too.And of course, the day presented the perfect opportunity for me to combine those aforementioned passions into one heck of an afternoon (although if you follow me on Twitter or Instagram, you’re aware of that!). Now, attending an outdoor festival in the heat of summer might seem like the opportune time to ditch decorum and dress to stay cool, but yours truly thinks just the opposite — bear with me.

Of note, stepping out on Saturday put me right smack-dab in the middle of some very hot weather — it was sunny, beautiful and in the 90s here in the Big Apple.  Even still, I was glad to be there as Panorama took over Randall’s Island, the site of this summer’s Governors Ball festival, (a similarly spectacular weekend). It was exciting to know that a quick subway trip brought me mere feet from (among others), The National, supremely talented purveyors of emotionally substantive music … but more on that in a second. Just know that for now, if you get the chance to see them, it’s a must. And if you manage to get as close as I somehow did, it’ll be even more astounding (just check out this video here, for one!).

Join Frank & Oak Elevate - Enjoy FREE Shipping, Cashback + more at Frank + Oak! Try it now for 90 days, risk free!To tackle the festival in style, I reached for a new pair of Thursday Boots — they’re a big Style Guide favorite for the way they blend price, quality and styling potential, and I tested out the rugged-refined Natural Diplomat Boot this weekend. It’s made from durable Horween leather that provided just the right amount of toughness, edge and style, plus excellent grip and plenty of durability for playing a little air guitar during a high-voltage afternoon set from British rockers Foals. Of course, they had to be able to fight for a spot in the crowd during a visually stunning show by Sufjan Stevens — and before that, I did plenty of rocking out to The National, one of my all-time favorite bands and the group behind one of my all-time favorite albums (that would be Boxer …. or perhaps it’s Trouble Will Find Me …. or maybe Alligator…). The band’s incredible, emotional show came after a blisteringly hot day out and about, and it’s a good thing I had apparel that stood up to the test. Challenges with the heat started early, even during a high-energy, engaging set from British duo Oh Wonder to kick off the day (note that if you dig what you hear from them, they’re working on a new album!).

Ready for a full day of rocking out. Linen-Blend Shirt by Old Navy. Slim Light Mercer Denim by Mott & Bow. Natural Diplomat Boots by Thursday Boots. Troubadour Socks by Richer Poorer. Hudson Belt by Arcade Belts. Adventure Log by Word Notebooks. Wristband by Panorama NYC.

Ready for a full day of rocking out. Linen-Blend Shirt by Old Navy. Slim Light Mercer Denim by Mott & Bow. Natural Diplomat Boots by Thursday Boots. Troubadour Socks by Richer Poorer. Hudson Belt by Arcade Belts. Adventure Log by Word Notebooks. Wristband by Panorama NYC.

Attending a great music festival often feels like multiple shows within one large, high-energy show — it’s fitting then, that my style blended multiple elements. To fight the heat (and yes, I’m aware I chose boots and denim), a linen-blend short-sleeve shirt courtesy of Old Navy worked quite well. Although the Navy color is now sold out, the white Flax Linen option on the site would be a reliable stand-in at your next music festival, with a much-needed linen blend and utilitarian chest pockets. It really was crucial to have versatile style, as the day shifted from a eclectic, mellow vibes of Oh Wonder  to a high-energy set put on Daughter. The quickly changing scenery called for durable accessories, too — no busted watches or sunglasses left behind here. Plus, my Tread for Men Traveler Sunscreen was a big help in protecting me from the sun.
Buck Mason - Timeless Design. Made in America.

Chief among the rest of those accessories was a new personal favorite, the outstanding Timex x Todd Snyder Mod Watch. It reliably updates a vintage style for the modern man. I accentuated that crisp watch with a fun-to-wear pair of Millbrook sunglasses via Steven Alan Optical, which clock in at an agreeable price on top of great looks ($165). Certainly, every cent helps when cooling down with some nice refreshments and powering through a day of great shows.

Keeping track of time during the day with the Mod Watch from the Timex x Todd Snyder collab. Natural Diplomat Boots by Thursday Boots. Slim Light Mercer Denim by Mott & Bow.

Keeping track of time during the day with the Mod Watch from the Timex x Todd Snyder collab. Natural Diplomat Boots by Thursday Boots. Slim Light Mercer Denim by Mott & Bow.

Lest we think the day was all about the big-ticket items (and bands), small touches really do go a long way in completing an outfit, such as the Hudson Belt from Arcade Belt Co. It’s made with stretchy, comfortable and durable navy smartweave fabric, and the color worked well alongside my socks, the lightweight, breathable, teal-and-grey color-blocked Troubadour from the team at Richer Poorer. Those socks paired with my boots for an added touch of comfort, and that was crucial — it felt like a long run-up into the evening, but it really was worth it.

That brings us back, once again, to The National. While I certainly looked forward to dressing for the day in style and checking out other great acts, I’d been looking forward even more to seeing the hallowed indie rockers return (relatively close) to their home turf. Seeing them two years ago at Calvin College back in my home state of Michigan was, to be quite honest, a lifechanging show (right up there with seeing Lucius at Daryl’s House Club in upstate New York earlier this year). And this time around, The National absolutely didn’t disappoint. Although the entire set was stellar, early renditions of “Don’t Swallow the Cap” and “Afraid of Everyone” were huge crowd-pleasers, as was an uptempo take on “Sea of Love” off of the acclaimed Trouble Will Find Me. Being that close to the stage for those songs was epic, seriously. The Dessner brothers are one of the tightest guitar duos around, and the Devendorf brothers reliably carry the rhythm section, too. What more can you ask for?

They’ve got a discography that’s so deep and versatile, an hour isn’t nearly enough — even at a festival.  A soul-stirring rendition of “Bloodbuzz Ohio” played well off of two new songs, “The Day I Die” and “Find A Way” fit right in with the rest of the band’s live set, which also managed to work in “England” off of High Violet. The variety in their setlist means you might hear your favorite track at an unexpected time, and it means you might have to wait a bit longer, too. “Fake Empire” was distinctive and well-done, cueing up the crowd for an intense, loud version of the classic “Mr. November” (just ask the folks next to me how much I enjoyed that one). Although Mr. Berninger stayed on stage for that song, he made his way into the crowd for “Terrible Love” — I’m surprised the fans let him go! It was nothing short of emotionally stirring and incredible, probably worthy of a full blog post in its own right. It was a two-year wait to see them, but I can only hope less time goes by before I see them again.

If you get the chance to check them out at one of the many festivals they tend to play during the summer, please do. The same goes for their friend and a top-billed act in his own right, Sufjan Stevens. It was time to put away those sunglasses (and grab another round), as he powered through a visually stunning set — both The National & Sufjan could definitely play for twice as long, what with their deep discographies and high-energy stage shows. Of course, an act like Kendrick Lamar is a huge crowd-pleaser and puts on a high-energy stage show of his own, which drew by far the largest crowds of the day.

It was a heck of a day that really was packed top-to-bottom — bands like Oh Wonder and Foals also rounded out the day nicely with afternoon sets that fit with the festival’s more eclectic vibe. Attendance felt a bit light at times, but it provided the chance to grab some prime real estate during killer sets by some of my favorite acts (particularly, as we all know…. The National). And gear like my durable Thursday Boots Natural Diplomat Boot and the Timex x Todd Snyder Mod Watch was really crucial to taking on such a hot and busy day in style. It was such an honor and privilege to be able to see a renowned act like The National, and the rest of the lineup definitely didn’t disappoint. We’ll see if Panorama sticks around next year, but if they continue to curate an eclectic lineup packed with big names and solid variety, there’s a great chance it will be — and I’ll be there with my best menswear to rock out!

‘Til the next show,

-Beau

Huckberry

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Timex x Todd Snyder Mod Watch

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 military NATO strap and a vintage-inspired design help this timepiece stand out in the best possible way. Photo courtesy of Timex.

A military NATO strap and a vintage-inspired design help this timepiece stand out in the best possible way. Photo courtesy of Timex.

Here at The Style Guide, your humble author is a big fan of rugged, tried-and-true classics — that goes for everything from chambray shirts to rugged leather chukka boots. But every now and then, slightly unexpected-yet-modern pieces are welcomed into the fold. That’s certainly the case with the Timex x Todd Snyder Mod Watch, a one-of-a-kind timepiece available exclusively through the lauded American designer’s Web site. In fact, it’s proven such a hit that it’s only available for backorder as of the time of this post. Yet, you should still seriously consider putting your name on that list (and then waiting anxiously until September, of course). Why is it so essential to get in the game now for us #menswear fans? Well for one, the timepiece itself is a perfect stylish casual watch that updates a vintage Timex design for the modern age. For another, it signals the start of an ongoing partnership between a classic watch brand and one of America’s best menswear designers — the fact that it was shown on the runways at Snyder’s recent New York Fashion Week: Men’s show is icing on the cake. And perhaps most importantly — it means you have a great excuse to pick up a new watch that’s eye-catching, crisp, versatile and available for under $140. Todd Snyder already stocks the elusive and much-loved Timex x Red Wing watch collaboration, featuring rugged watches that utilize tough Red Wing leather in the straps themselves. The Timex x Todd Snyder Mod Watch is a little more toned-down and refined, yet still very wearable — it’s an example of hitting it right down the middle when it comes to design balance.

A closer look at the red-and-black mod bullseye design, inspired by the Timex archives. Photo courtesy of the brand.

A closer look at the red-and-black mod bullseye design, inspired by the Timex archives. Photo courtesy of the brand.

Buck Mason - Timeless Design. Made in America.
Snyder’s savvy eye, combined with the knowledge of the Timex design team, leaves us with a striking watch that’s like none on the market right now. The red-and-black dial combo is unique enough in and of itself, but when paired with the military NATO strap, you’ve got a combination that’s made for rocking with a classic blue Oxford and slim sand chinos at the office, and a slim pocket T-shirt and navy chino shorts on the weekend. The 40mm case diameter hits the sweet spot in terms of size — it’s not too small, and it’s not overly large. That’s the benefit of a watch that manages to be clean and classic yet striking at the same time — it goes with anything. Truly, a sufficiently stylish NATO strap timepiece can even work with a  suit — just steal a style tip from James Bond in Spectre. Of course, the dial designs of each of those watches are different, but the idea remains the same. There are very few casual watches that can transition from being worn with something as casual as slim blue denim and a short-sleeve henley to being worn with a blazer, and that pool is narrowed even further when you look for something under $140.  So, the design is one-of-a-kind, the styling potential is one-of-a-kind and the price is …. well, one-of-a-kind. In fact, you’re really getting multiple watches for the price of one — the easy-to-change NATO strap can be easily switched out with everything from a Horween leather watch strap  to a floral NATO watch strap (truly). If that’s not enough to convince you, just know that this watch won’t stick around for long once it’s re-stocked — so pre-ordering it could be the smartest move you make this weekend.

What’s your take on the design of the Timex x Todd Snyder Mod Watch? How would you rock this timepiece?

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: New York Fashion Week: Men’s Edition

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.  

While there have been plenty of busy weeks as of late, this week was among the busiest … perhaps ever? It was the second summer iteration (and third iteration overall) of New York Fashion Week: Men’s, the most recent addition to a fashion calendar that sends top menswear editors, retail buyers, designers, models,  bloggers and photographers on a globetrotting marathon that stretches from London to Milan, Florence, Paris and NYC. Pretty wild, right? While runway shows and high fashion can often get pretty intimidating and overwhelming, there are still reasons to pay attention — particularly as a #menswear fan (that’s why we’re here, right?). For one, the trends that are seen on the runway — for example, the influence of sportswear on the men’s style market — trickle down all the way to brands like Old Navy (take those bomber jackets seen everywhere).

For another, they draw quite the crowd and build buzz & support for the industry. And thankfully and luckily, I had the chance as part of my freelance style writing with The Manual and this here blog to do some pretty neat things, to say the least.  For one, I was able to attend three excellent trade shows (think row upon row of brands displaying their upcoming and current wares in merchandised spaces for buyers and press). From Capsule Show to Liberty  to the more internationally focused MAN Show — featuring The Hill-Side, among others —  I caught with some of my favorite brands. Among them were brands you frequently see here — that would be folks from places like American Trench, Tanner Goods and Owen & Fred. Perhaps most importantly, I was humbled and honored to interview Mr. Todd Snyder for a piece covering his stellar new collaboration with Timex; he’s my menswear hero and a true gentleman — a fine example of the great people that work in the menswear industry overall. With all that being said, it was a busy and exhausting week, yet one that was very fulfilling and enjoyable! And it’s not done yet. I’m looking forward to heading back to Michigan for my good friend Matt Sheehan’s wedding — as a former State News colleague and a proud Spartan, it should be a tremendous occasion! And we’ll have a full men’s style weekend recap  coming along on Monday. For now, check out a few choice men’s style stories from this week!

  • As I mentioned above, you’d be wise to check out — and drool over, and pre-order — the excellent Timex x Todd Snyder Mod Watch as I covered for The Manual;  it’s effortlessly wearable and versatile!
  • Even though the rest of the menswear world looked toward Spring/Summer 2017 this week, Saturdays Surf NYC offered us all a sneak peek at what they’ve got coming for this fall — and boy, does the collection look stellar.
  • And in the spirit of all things New York Fashion Week:  Men’s, GQ takes you into the super-exclusive, super-premium Amazon Fashion Prime Lounge, where some of the hottest names in fashion and entertainment kicked back (I think my invite was lost in the mail).

Looking for one last thing to read?

That’s all we’ve got on tap this week here at The Style Guide — for more from my weekend in Michigan and to see the gear I’m rocking, follow along on Instagram and Twitter!

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by Beau H.

#OOTD: How to Style Linen Pants This Summer

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.

With the weather heating up by the day here, we’re really digging into the doldrums of summer (not that summer isn’t great, it’s just … hot). How to fight the heat? Look no further than how to style linen pants this summer. It’s a style move that gets overlooked from time to time, what with plenty of warm-weather #OOTD options out there, be they stylish shorts or slim light wash denim. Yet, dressier looks are still in order for most us throughout the week. Although lightweight summer suiting options are far more common and wearable now than in years past, there’s an even cooler — and just as sharp — option that you can throw on. If the intro wasn’t a dead giveaway, the below #OOTD is all about styling an essential pair of linen trousers for your work day (or a slightly dressed up weekend outing.  We’re ditching the jacket, rolling up those sleeves and getting to work. To see warm-weather style in action, head to my Instagram. And jump on over to Twitter if you have thoughts on this #OOTD, ehh? Stay cool!

Easygoing, simple and yet still dressy & stylish.

Easygoing, simple and yet still dressy & stylish.

The Linen Pants: Bridge & Burn Roark Linen Dune Pants, $128 — Although more than $100 is a tad pricey, the extra cost comes from solid construction and a classic fit that’s not overly tailored or loose. Plus, the Khaki color works with plenty of #menswear ensembles.

The Shirt: Twillory White Oxford, $99 — A classic white Oxford balances the easygoing linen pants quite nicely; the quality and customizable fit of this shirt justifies the price, too.

The Tie: Ties.com Phoenix Skinny Tie, $20 — Brands like The Tie Bar continue to get plenty of hype (and rightfully so), but the quality, selection and looks of ties like these — in a lightweight cotton, to boot — are just as on-point.

The Watch: Armogan Spirit of St. Louis Chronograph, $225 — So you want a distinctive, stylish and slightly retro-leaning watch? Look no further than this crisp, refined chronograph sold via Huckberry.

The Shoes: Jack Erwin Archie Penny Loafer, $195 — A slim pair of cognac leather loafers adds just the right, summer-friendly touch to this ensemble — read here for more on the Jack Erwin Archie Penny Loafer in the meantime.

The Belt: Anderson’s Stretch Woven Leather Belt, $195 — Ponying up nearly $200 for a belt? When it’s made with heritage-level attention to detail and features some nice texture appropriate to summer, it’s the way to go.

The Socks: Pair of Thieves Catch-22 No-show Socks, $10 — No-show socks for summer are something you absolutely have to have, and that’s particularly true when rocking leather loafers; this pair will keep your feet feeling great while helping your shoes last longer.

The Daily Must-have: This Is Ground Leatherback Writer 3, $100 — For all those loose odds and ends that pop up during the day, you need a piece that’s reliable and ready to go; in fact, it’s got room for everything from your iPhone to a notebook and wallet.

When you reach for pieces that are well-made, classic and versatile, you can meet virtually any situation. That goes for hot summer days where you just have to wear a tie, and it’s particularly true even when you rock a slim denim shirt and suede Oxfords (as in this ensemble). The right pieces — like a tailored linen pant — can work well as the start of an outfit, and you can build around them with other pieces that are great to have (like a classic Oxford, leather loafers and a crisp dress watch). You could replicate a similar combo with classic khaki chinos, but linen pants are the way to go when it gets unbearably hot out. And that’s about all there is to it. Have ideas for what you might like to see as part of the #OOTD series? Leave it in the comments below!

by Beau H.

Style Suggestion: How To Dress for A First Date

Editor’s note: Head this way for more menswear style suggestions.

So, you’ve done it — secured a date! Very well-done, indeed. But what to wear? More importantly, what to wear for a spring or summer-specific situation, like a patio date? Or for that matter, a casual indoor date? You certainly want to dress to impress, but unless you’re heading somewhere exceptionally fancy, it’s probably best to stay away from a full-on suit (that’s step number one). Step number two — read up on a versatile style suggestion geared toward both of those situations– but know that the same building blocks (a stylish chambray shirt, slim jeans and crisp chukkas) can be customized to any season, and with some tweaks (adding a blazer or a sweater, for example), you can create at least two different looks based on the weather. That’s what the below style suggestion aims to get done. It goes without saying that you should look a bit more cleaned up than when out on a bar crawl with friends, and you should certainly class it up from casual weekend style — so, if you want an outfit that checks those boxes, read on! If you have questions in the meantime on how to dress for the occasion, head here or here for style in action. Good luck out there, and let me know

The Jacket: Bridge & Burn Hayden Gray Linen Jacket — $188

A straightforward-yet-stylish jacket with subtle detailing, including that printed liner.

A straightforward-yet-stylish jacket with subtle detailing, including that printed liner.

This piece of outerwear has popped up on the blog from time to time (including in this site’s guide to the best spring jackets), as it’s premium and stylish in a subtle way. It’s a classic silhouette with an updated fit and an easily wearable color, and it’s made with some eye-catching details, including the printed jacket liner. It’s not as dressy as a classic blazer, but functions as a solid outer layer should you need it if the night gets breezy. Other than that, it looks just right over a slim chambray shirt with or without a tie on this first date or elsewhere — it’s playing it (somewhat) safe while exuding great style.

The Shirt: Taylor Stitch The Hyde Chambray Shirt — $99.98

A classic chambray shirt never fails, especially one cut a bit dressier.

A classic chambray shirt never fails, especially one with a bit dressier styling.

It seems that in nearly every style situation, a classic chambray shirt just …. works. When it’s the Taylor Stitch Hyde Chambray Shirt, it’s even better. It’s the more modern answer to a blue Oxford, as it incorporates great visual interest thanks to the textured fabric. Plus, it’s a four-season style essential — we’re talking wearing with a shawl-collar cardigan in the winter, and on its own in the warm weather for a first date. The semi-spread collar leans dressier than a button-down collar, but it can still be rocked without a tie (roll up the sleeves when your jacket comes off to heighten that effect). And if you do decide to go dressier? It would look just right with a grey knit tie.

The Denim: Mott and Bow Slim Mercer Light Denim — $108

A lighter shade that's not quite bright white -- perfect for spring and summer.

A lighter shade that’s not quite bright white — perfect for spring and summer.

While classic dark blue denim would certainly work here, there’s something appropriate to warm weather about lightening up the color of your denim. In particular, a light shade of khaki is a unique style swerve that’s still easily wearable. Some can be hesitant about wearing white denim (yours truly included), so khaki is an easier way to switch up your wardrobe for warm weather. The light khaki color makes the chambray shirt and gray jacket stand out a bit more, too. And Mott & Bow’s Slim fit is going to be pretty agreeable to most body types (even if you’re not used to a slimmer-fitting pair of denim).

The Boots: Astorflex Greenflex Dark Khaki Chukka Boots — $145

Chukka boots that hit the right note between dressy and casual.

Chukka boots that hit the right note between dressy and casual.

A reliable, essential pair of suede chukkas is another safe and stylish bet to make, particularly for a first date. In this instance, these suede chukka boots are understated and casual, yet crisp enough to fit right in with that light khaki denim and blue chambray shirt. The color contrasts nicely with the khaki denim, and again, that essential pairing of chukka boots and a chambray shirt is one that works across all seasons. If the date leans a bit dressier, you could always swap in a pair of leather wingtips. Either way, these boots are sustainably made and sourced, so they’d be a worthy footwear choice.

The Socks: American Trench Triangles and Chevrons Socks — $19.50

Not too plain, not too dressy -- just right.

Not too plain, not too dressy — just right.

As has been the theme of this outfit, sticking with subtle, stylish and slightly refined finishing touches is the way to go. Luckily, American Trench knows that’s just what guys need nowadays. The brand’s socks, though pricey, are a Style Guide favorite for their understated style, nice colors and good selection. The print on this pair plays nicely off the color of the shirt and the denim while not getting too far out there. Although one pair is pretty pricey, it’s an investment that’s worth it — they show a touch of personal style without detracting from the rest of the outfit.

The Belt: Arcade Belt Co. The Hudson Belt — $31.98

Leather detailing that contrasts nicely with the navy color.

Leather detailing that contrasts nicely with the navy color.

Everyone should (ideally) have a classic leather belt in their rotation. Here though, the easy pick is a belt that injects a bit of color into the middle of your outfit while also incorporating some spring and summer texture. If, as we always talk about, style is in the details, then this belt certainly fits that principle. It goes with the overall color scheme of the ensemble, and plays nicely off the blue chambray shirt. It’ll allow you to tuck your shirt in without looking like you left behind a part of your outfit, as well. That’s pretty crucial, yeah?

The Watch: Timex 38mm Watch — $138

Yet another timepiece that features tough Red Wing leather in the strap.

Yet another timepiece that features tough Red Wing leather in the strap.

If you are as of yet unacquainted with the rugged, straightforward and affordably priced stylings of some of the timepieces within the Timex collection, I’d update yourself accordingly now. This revamp really picked up with the introduction of the Timex Waterbury line, continued with the Timex x Red Wing collaboration unveiling earlier this year, and rolls right on through with this simple-yet-rugged timepiece sold via Todd Snyder.  This understated 38mm watch also features Red Wing shoe leather in the strap, which means it’s ultra-sturdy, ultra-stylish and definitely fit for a first date.

The Finishing Touch: Byrd Matte Hair Pomade — $22

An easy way to look good -- a bit of matte pomade and some light styling can go a long way.

An easy way to look good — a bit of matte pomade and some light styling can go a long way.

Some of us eschew hair product altogether, and there’s nothing wrong with that. But, it can be nice to spruce up your mane (particularly if it’s humid out) with a little matte finish pomade — that means you won’t get an overly shiny looking hairdo.  And it goes without saying that you shouldn’t overdo it — just enough to achieve a nice, put-together look. We’ll cover off on more summer grooming essentials next week, but make sure you take care of the basics (y’know, brushing your teeth, wearing deodorant, etc.) beforehand, too.

Preparing for (and then, well, going on) a first date can be a bit nervewracking — it’s about making a first impression, but it’s also about compatibility and finding the right fit. I’ll leave the restaurant/bar/activity choice to you, but the above ensemble should work with some mild tweaks across the spring and summer. The adage that you only get one shot to make a first impression is certainly true, particularly when it comes to style on a first date — clothing isn’t everything, to be sure, but if you start things off looking crisp and polished, that can only signal good things ahead (one would hope!). Plus, first dates should be fun, and dressing in some of your favorite style essentials is a great way to approach it with that mind set. Questions? Comments? Concerns? Head over to The Style Guide Facebook page to keep the discussion going!

Don’t forget to pick up the check,

-Beau

Buck Mason - Timeless Design. Made in America.

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: Italian Denim, Affordable Glasses and New York Fashion Week: Men’s

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.  

Just as it seemed like summer was getting started (what with Memorial Day weekend and all), it now feels like it’s rushing past! Were you on the road for the Fourth of July this past weekend? I took it easy and stayed in NYC, which gave me the chance to visit some excellent menswear shops and check out the truly wild Coney Island hot-dog eating contest — click through this link to check out a rundown of Fourth of July weekend festivities. It was great to be able to take an extra day off and catch up with great friends in the sunny NYC weather, though. A short weekend brings us to the brink of perhaps the busiest week of the summer — the start of New York Fashion Week: Men’s, and a look at what’s on tap for Spring 2017 (truly!) from America’s top #menswear designers.
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It was a treat to attend various events and shows last year, and I’m looking forward to it just as much this year — that goes for attending trade shows like Capsule and Liberty, which showcase plenty of emerging designers and some Style Guide favorites like Owen & Fred and The Hill-Side. Although high fashion runway shows can get confusing at times, trends seen there can be relatable and useful when showcased by a great designer like Todd Snyder, who always seems to churn out classic style staples with a rugged-refined edge.  Given that focus, I’m very much looking forward to seeing what’s in store, and you can follow along with all the action on Twitter or Instagram. It all starts Sunday, so until then, I’ll be looking to get some rest and relaxation. Enjoy the weekend, and the Friday Read!

  • Looking for a glasses upgrade? Worry not. Esquire.com takes you through five affordable glasses brands to know now — like, right now.
  • Just in case you were in need of a new pair of denim (and really, who isn’t these days?), I’d strongly advise you check out my latest feature on The Manual, covering new Italian-made denim from Mott & Bow — oh, and check back here tomorrow for more on that front.
  • Style Note of the Week: Here at the good ol’ Style Guide, we love a stylish watch. If that fits the bill for you as well, check out a recently launched Kickstarter from Jacopo Dondi, a brand who’s giving traditional watches a run for their money — why’s that? The brand is launching a sharp-looking watch with a 24-hour dial, meant to guide you through your day in a stylish, functional manner. Give it a look if you’re in the market for a new watch (and note that it’s about 50 percent funded already.

In need of more men’s style content?

    • It’s been a busy week of writing for yours truly at The Manual — and if your busy week included a hunt for a new T-shirt, look no further than a piece I wrote covering stylish summer T-shirts from Buck Mason.
    • Lastly, I rounded up even more excellent summer T-shirts for GearMoose — all of them are worth a look if you want a tee fit for layering or wearing on its own.

G-Star RAW

by Beau H.

City lights: A weekend in the Big Apple

Editor’s note: For more posts covering style adventures big and small, click here.

Ready for some Sunday brunch and brownstone envy. Denim jacket by American Apparel. Printed graphic tee and Flat Wool Cap by Bridge and Burn. Slim Light Mercer Denim by Mott & Bow. Cooper Boat Shoes in Caramel Nubuck by Jack Erwin. Waterbury Chrono by Timex x Red Wing. Sunglasses by Spine Optics. Striped webbed belt by J. Crew.

Ready for some Sunday brunch and brownstone envy. Denim jacket by American Apparel. Printed graphic tee and Flat Wool Cap by Bridge and Burn. Slim Light Mercer Denim by Mott & Bow. Cooper Boat Shoes in Caramel Nubuck by Jack Erwin. Waterbury Chrono by Timex x Red Wing. Sunglasses by Spine Optics. Striped webbed belt by J. Crew.

Just in the past few weeks alone, it’s really hit me that I’ve been fortunate enough to live in NYC for two years (well, two years and one weekend officially). It’s been an ongoing, ever-expanding adventure, from some classic NYC real estate struggles (email me for more on that) to some exciting job transitions and the opportunity to write, blog and work with some fantastic brands and fantastic people. In the midst of all this activity, I always relish the chance to see (and occasionally host) my family and friends when they visit — it’s turned out to be quite the destination! And while it’s not the same as traveling for work or play, that still means I plan ahead and try to dress well to meet the demands of the weekend. These past few days were another such chance, as I hosted my mom and sister in my Brooklyn apartment (my wood floor is the backdrop of my Instagram photos, wink, wink). We had an action-packed weekend, and although I do call this place my home now, I’m always excited to see new places in the city, and try new things — one can’t possibly do it all even living here!

An outfit fit for the cubicle and a Broadway viewing. Slim-Fit Travel Jacket by Combatant Gentleman. Slim grey chinos by Bonobos. Slim chambray shirt by Old Navy. Archie Penny Loafers by Jack Erwin. Maximus Sunglasses by Sunday Somewhere. Customized Weekender Fairfield by Timex.

An outfit fit for the cubicle and a Broadway viewing. Slim-Fit Travel Jacket by Combatant Gentleman. Pin dot pocket square by The Grunion Run via SprezzaBox. Slim grey chinos by Bonobos. Slim chambray shirt by Old Navy. Archie Penny Loafers by Jack Erwin. Maximus Sunglasses by Sunday Somewhere. Customized Weekender Fairfield by Timex.

After their Thursday arrival, we had time for a lovely lunch in Bryant Park on one of the best spring days we’ve had yet. As it was a work day for me at Coyne PR (followed by a Broadway viewing of the musical “She Loves Me,”) I stuck with versatile, classic style fit for the office and a more refined night — that is, an Old Navy dark chambray shirt paired with slim grey Bonobos chinos and one of my favorite jackets, the crisp Slim-Fit Travel Jacket from Combatant Gentleman. I finished off that pairing with some accessories fit for 9-to-5 and beyond — that would be a pin dot pocket square from the folks at Grunion Run via SprezzaBox and sharp Jack Erwin leather loafers (the Archie, to be specific). Both fit right in for my work day, and also looked presentable at a Broadway show — if you’ve got dinner plans after work or something similar, essential tailored accessories like that are very helpful. And a new pair of the Maximus Sunglasses courtesy of the Australian eyewear brand Sunday Somewhere looked stylish and … eye-catching (had to do it).
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The show (starring an extremely talented ensemble cast, including Zachary Levi, formerly of NBC’s “Chuck”) was a fun way to cap off a busy work day, even for a non-Broadway buff like myself. Friday meant another casually-dressed work day for yours truly, and a day of exploration around Manhattan for my mom and sister — but Friday  night was a real treat. After a stop at the Brazen Fox for a few brews and a tasty burger (never a bad call), we headed deep into Brooklyn to one of my favorite stops, Threes Brewing. The craft beer hotspot was hosting the release of the acclaimed Day of the Dead Grateful Dead tribute album, curated by Aaron & Bryce Dessner, Brooklyn rock heroes currently of The National. So it was a night featuring tracks from my mom’s favorite band, and an appearance from a few members of one of my favorite bands. Not a bad way to cap off the work week! (Oh, and Scott Devendorf of The National said “we’re working on new stuff for you,” so… make of that what you will).

A crisp, classic outfit for two Broadway shows. Baker Mountain Field Jacket by Timberland. Blue Oxford by JackThreads. Slim Bowie Chinos by JACHS NY. Customized Weekender Fairfield by Timex. Printed socks by Pair of Thieves. Maximus Sunglasses by Sunday Somewhere. Suede Strada Derby Shoes by M.Gemi.

A crisp, classic outfit for two Broadway shows. Baker Mountain Field Jacket by Timberland. Blue Oxford by JackThreads. Slim Bowie Chinos by JACHS NY. Customized Weekender Fairfield by Timex. Printed socks by Pair of Thieves. Maximus Sunglasses by Sunday Somewhere. Suede Strada Derby Shoes by M.Gemi.

That led us right into an exciting start to the day on Saturday, as we stopped by a true Brooklyn classic, the always-excellent Milk & Honey Café. I’d definitely recommend the shop’s new Maple Bacon Cronut — it’s delicious, and it’s a stellar way to start your day, even if it is a little far into Brooklyn. We had to zip into Manhattan to then prep for the first of not one, but two incredible Broadway shows — including the much-acclaimed and much-lauded “Hamilton,” an astonishing work of musical theater, and the most interesting account of the life of Alexander Hamilton that you’ll ever see. It was just … jaw-dropping (thanks, Dad!). We nearly topped that with an evening viewing of “Les Miserables,” another all-time musical classic that’s just as much of a sight to behold — and going off Broadway later this year, to boot. Needless to say, it was an emotional, enthralling and exciting day.

While I was focused on getting to (and making it through) those emotional shows, I still tried to meet the demands of travel across Brooklyn & Manhattan in style. I paired a classic blue JackThreads Oxford with the smart, well-tailored Bowie Chinos from JACHS NY, complemented by the crisp, versatile M.Gemi Strada Derby, plus some navy-and-orange Pair of Thieves printed socks and the always-classic Timex Weekender Fairfield. I topped off my outfit to fight the rain with the Baker Mountain Field Jacket via Timberland (I’d absolutely recommend you grab a stylish spring rain jacket if some breezes or showers are in the mix). And to finish things off, I once again grabbed the Maximus Sunglasses from Sunday Somewhere — part of my latest Spring Style Essentials at GearMoose, as it were.

The "outfit grid" version of the ensemble seen at the top of the page. Printed graphic tee and Flat Wool Cap by Bridge and Burn. Light Ludlow Denim by Mott & Bow. Cooper Boat Shoes in Caramel Nubuck by Jack Erwin. Waterbury Chrono by Timex x Red Wing. Sunglasses by Spine Optics. Striped webbed belt by J. Crew.

The “outfit grid” version of the ensemble seen at the top of the page. Printed graphic tee and Flat Wool Cap by Bridge and Burn. Slim Mercer Light Denim by Mott & Bow. Cooper Boat Shoes in Caramel Nubuck by Jack Erwin. Waterbury Chrono by Timex x Red Wing. Sunglasses by Spine Optics. Striped webbed belt by J. Crew.

After a busy, bustling day in the city, we were pretty exhausted — and that made a hearty Sunday brunch to close out the weekend all the more enjoyable. While our first choice (Rucola in Brooklyn Heights) was filled up with a pretty feisty Brunch Village crowd, we swung back just a few blocks to a new favorite spot (as of yesterday), Building on Bond, a slightly rustic, vintage-feeling spot with a quaint vibe and some tremendous iced coffee and corned beef hash. If ever you get to Brooklyn (it’s just one stop in!), stop through.
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For a casual final day of my mom and sister’s trip, I grabbed some comfortable yet still put-together weekend pieces, including two great new items from my friends at Bridge & Burn — the brand’s comfortable, slim-fitting and witty “Win Always” graphic tee, plus a neat Flat Wool Cap (complete with a handy stitched “B” on the front). I accented those pieces with the versatile Slim Mercer Light Denim from Mott & Bow. And they looked just right alongside the exceedingly comfortable Jack Erwin Cooper Boat Shoes, shoes that are crafted for the city rather than the dock thanks to that elongated loafer last (pick up a pair for just $125 — seriously, do it). Two critical accessories complemented my look — the stunning Waterbury Chrono from the Timex x Red Wing collab. plus the durable Spine Optics Aviator Sunglasses. Whether the occasion calls for casual Sunday brunch pieces or finishing touches fit for the workday, I think either would suit you well.

Just as was the case with my weekend in Washington, D.C., the trip definitely went far too quickly, but it was action-packed and tons of fun. I’m certainly hopeful I can get down to Florida to see the rest of my family again soon — but in the meantime, if their visits to NYC include more viewings of “Hamilton,” my family’s welcome all the time! Let me know if you’ve had any stylish weekend adventures over on The Style Guide Facebook page, and look for an #OOTD post coming tomorrow, plus travel style coverage of a trip upstate coming along next Monday.

Until next time — thanks for reading, and stay stylish!

-Beau
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