Tag / #menswear

by Beau H.

Keep Portland Weird! A West Coast Weekend Adventure

Hanging out at TwentySix Cafe in versatile, rugged gear for exploring Portland. My Bridge & Burn Northfork Woodland Jacket, the Taylor Stitch Sashiko Shirt, All-American Washed Jeans from Flint and Tinder and my Grizzly Wheat President Boots from Thursday Boots worked out tremendously!

Before we kick things off in today’s latest travel style feature on The Style Guide, know that we’re not about to dive into a “Portlandia” parody (as outstanding as that show happens to be). No sir, this past weekend gave me the chance to head West — although I’d spent a weekend exploring Los Angeles and even made a trip out to Las Vegas for work last year, I’d never been to the City of Roses. I’ve been hearing great things about its balance of excellent #menswear, standout craft beer, a great culinary scene and of course, stellar live music — in my book, that’s more than enough reason to get out and adventure.


And the my long weekend brought with it the added value of an amazing concert — always a bonus! Yes indeed, seeing excellent synth pop band Future Islands play the renowned Crystal Ballroom was a heck of a treat on Friday night. Although it was quite the long trek to get out there following a long work week in New York, I did my best to pack in style (as you might have seen via my Instagram page). Come along for the journey!

Slim, faded denim, a durable Saddleback duffel bag, trusty James Dean Eyewear sunglasses … all that you need for a weekend out West.

Traveling in style and comfort can be a bit of a challenge — particularly on a long flight. That’s why I reached for my durable, pleasingly faded All-American Washed Jeans from Flint and Tinder. Made from premium cotton denim and finished with just a hint of stretch, my All-American Washed Jeans were a fine pair of denim to go from the airport to go to the hip, quiet and cozy TwentySix Cafe near my Irvington accommodations. And my uniquely detailed Taylor Stitch Sashiko Shirt worked just as well on the plane as it did trekking around Portland, particularly when teamed with the richly crafted Grizzly Wheat President Boot from Thursday Boots. To stay on time through it all, I reached for a brand-new, slim and refined Timex watch — the versatile leather strap proved easily wearable all day long. To shield my eyes from the sun in style, a new pair of James Dean Eyewear JDS100 Sunglasses looked great and proved up to the task. The next time your trip calls for exploring a new city on foot, reach for mobile denim, comfortable-yet-tough boots, a sharp watch and stylish, go-anywhere shirting. 

All the right details for exploring Portland, including a new Timex watch and my rugged Thursday Boots Grizzly Wheat President Boots.

And exploration was certainly the name of the game on Friday leading up to that night’s Future Islands show. Thankfully, my durable, rugged and extremely well-crafted Saddleback Rounded Leather Duffel Bag held up to the challenge of lugging around my favorite travel style essentials as I hopped from grabbing a crucial cold brew to the excellent Bunk Bar Wonder, one of a series of PDX locations offering gourmet sandwiches, excellent craft cocktails and a very solid beer selection. A hint — get the Molě Tator Tots, packed with delicious flavor. It was a great afternoon lead-in to a stop at the richly appointed Tanner Goods Flagship Store and the accompanying craft cocktail/beer bar & patio, The Wayback. This American-made brand has long been a favorite of mine for handsome leather goods, durable outerwear, stylish home decor and terrific attention to detail — it was a treat to finally stop by! So with coffee, menswear and craft beer on lock, that led to the night’s highlight: Future Islands bringing down a packed Crystal Ballroom with a stellar show! It helped that I dressed in comfort and style; I can simply never resist the chance to wear rugged leather boots to a concert, either.

The Baltimore-based synth pop band’s rise to fame has been a long one — they’ve played more than 1,000 shows across the country since 2006, often booking them on their own. And if you’re not familiar, I’d say you’ll recognize them from their 2014 appearance on Letterman playing hit single “Seasons (Waiting on You).” Believe me, frontman Sam Herring is every bit as energetic, passionate and enjoyable in person — I knew that from seeing the band play Panorama 2017 here in NYC! And their return to Portland was an anticipated one, coming as it did off the release of one of this year’s better albums, the emotionally packed “The Far Field.”

With an extensive discography spanning five albums and plenty of crowd favorites, a Future Islands show is full of highs and lows, joy and passion — it’s a sight to behold, from hits like 2017’s “Ran” and 2014’s “A Dream of You and Me” to fan favorites like “Seasons,” of course! And Crystal Ballroom, what with a historic interior and a tremendous craft beer selection — including choice selections brewed in Portland — is simply a quirky, cool, standout venue for a live show. Did it top my trip to Nashville to see Young the Giant and Cold War Kids? It’s tough to say – but Future Islands blew me away yet again. Even dealing with a bit of jet lag, it was still a heck of a way to cap off a big Portland day.

Durable Allen Edmonds boots, a finely crafted Abercrombie cotton shirt and a durable Timex x Red Wing watch — perfect Portland essentials.

So, with Friday night in the books, my Saturday kicked off in style — from the ground up, as it were. For getting around Portland with durability, rugged looks and sharp versatility in mind, my brand-new Allen Edmonds Caen Cap Toe Boots worked extremely well. Of course, I started my day right on time with my Timex x Red Wing Waterbury Watch, but stellar boots were just as critical. Coming from a brand mainly known for stylish men’s dress shoes, these rugged cap toe boots are a welcome addition to the Allen Edmonds line — and what’s more, they worked nicely in tandem with the crisp, easily wearable Flint and Tinder 365 Pants. Cut like a five-pocket pant and made from a blend of cotton and lyrca, my 365 Pants helped me grab a quick coffee at essential Portland stop Blue Star Donuts before kicking off afternoon shopping at Style Guide favorites Bridge & Burn. On the shirting front, I reached for a nice fall go-between — a new Abercrombie & Fitch Herringbone Shirt, courtesy of the brand. I can’t recommend the rugged versatility of Abercrombie & Fitch enough, and this soft-washed cotton shirt was able to withstand a full day out and about in Portland.

I packed a lot into an already busy day, including a stop at the excellent Kiriko Made shop — renowned for indigo textiles, excellent shirting and stunning attention to detail on items as small as pocket squares, Kiriko should certainly be on your shopping list if you get out to Portland.  And just as with my trip to Nashville, I had to hit up a renowned craft beer spot or two. The afternoon started with the Deschutes Brewery Portland location — a craft beer lover’s dream.  Lauded for rich, innovative and hard-to-find beers (at least back in NYC), I can’t recommend the nearly legendary Black Butte Porter or the Inversion IPA enough. It was a nice lead-in to another busy evening — centered, of course, around a trip to bustling sports bar The Independent to catch my beloved Michigan State Spartans take on the Notre Dame Fighting Irish! And for a postgame brew, I headed to 10Barrel Brewing, another Oregon favorite that’s always a treat to sip.

Men's travel style

Heading back home in comfortable Standard Deviation denim, a classic Bridge and Burn tee and my trusty Huckberry Explorer’s Cap.

To kick off my last and final day in style — and with a jolt – I stopped by the Ace Hotel Portland, a hip boutique hotel that’s also a favorite spot in NYC for post-work drinks and small bites. Oh, and the coffee from Stumptown Coffee Roasters? It’s excellent, too. I also made my final day count in terms of #menswear, from my Astorflex Greenflex in Dark Khaki chukka boots to my slim, stylish and well-fitting Standard Deviation denim. Standard Deviation does it right when it comes to stylish denim — the brand’s Two-Part Solution allows you to try out two pairs for 15 days to nail down your perfect fit; when the time comes, you pay the discounted price of $78 per pair. Not bad, ehh? And certainly stylish for exploring Portland and heading to Ecliptic Brewing for a nice brew or two before a long flight back home.

I also dressed in laidback style with a new Bridge & Burn Basic Tee, a slim-fitting number made with a breezy cotton blend. The Heather Wine color  of the Basic Tee also played nicely off my Astorflex Greenflex in Dark Khaki chukka boots. Luckily, my essential Timex x Todd Snyder Military Watch ensured I stayed on time throughout the day.  For navigating a new city, reach for classic suede chukka boots and perhaps some favorite tunes, as I did when I plugged into stylish headphones from the Bespoke Post Vibes Box. With a busy, enjoyable and exciting weekend behind me, it was time all too soon to head hone. I appreciated Portland for its quiet atmosphere, its mix of amazing coffee, great menswear and live music, and the attention to detail in everything from food to craft beer. Is Portland “weird,” per se? It’s different than New York and Brooklyn, and that’s a great thing!

If you’ve got questions on the best things to do in Portland, drop me a note on Twitter. Follow along on Instagram for more men’s travel style tips, and check back tomorrow for a new #OOTD post.

Thanks for reading!

-Beau

by Beau H.

See Now, Buy Now: The Billy Reid Speckled Henley is an Essential Fall Layer

An ultra-premium henley that’s more than ready for fall layering. Did I mention it’s from Billy Reid?

We’ve been talking about men’s fall style essentials for a while now on the blog, and make no mistake, we want to get you prepped the right way. That’s why you need — NEED — the Billy Reid Speckled Henley for fall. Is that a bit extreme perhaps? Sure  — but if you argue that every needs a rugged henley in his fall layering rotation, then the Billy Reid Speckled Henley becomes that much easier to consider (and even buy!). And so it goes with another See Now, Buy Now entry – the Speckled Henley in particular is a welcome sight. It means that we’re that much closer to fall breezes, crisp morning walks through your favorite park, rich stouts on tap at your favorite brewery … you name it, and the Billy Reid Speckled Henley can take you there this season. It’s an accessible piece from a designer lauded for his runway shows and his richly crafted (and expensive) outerwear and tailoring — but rest assured, the Billy Reid Speckled Henley is worth it.

Made in Italy from a 12-gauge knit heathered fabric, the Billy Reid Speckled Henley could be the most premium henley you own. That means you can wear it with a herringbone blazer and dark blue denim to the office on a casual Friday, and you can easily throw it on underneath a classic denim jacket or a black moto jacket and stylish Chelsea boots to head to a  rock concert. And with small details like a tubular neckline finish and high-quality horn buttons, this henley acts more like a dress shirt than a base layer. Crucially, the Billy Reid Speckled Henley is going to retain its shape and look great even with repeated wear. Are you ready for fall yet? Hopefully, the Billy Reid Speckled Henley  helps get you in the spirit soon enough.

How would you wear the Billy Reid Speckled Henley? Will you be picking it up this season? 

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Wolverine Original 1000 Mile Boots

A classic in any season — especially fall.

Folks, let’s dive on into another Style Pick of the Week. More specifically, let’s talk rugged fall boots — as in the standout Wolverine Original 1000 Mile Boots. They’re investment-worthy and wish list-worthy, to say the least. Surely, if you’re a #menswear fan and have kept up with the industry, then you’ll recognize the durable, classic and resurgent style of the Wolverine 1000 Mile Boot. They were a trendy favorite in the mid-2000s as workwear and made-in-America goods surged back into play, but here’s the catch — Wolverine has made these boots a modern-day classic. Yes, the handsome, rugged and timeless silhouette of the Wolverine Original 1000 Mile Boot is just as relevant today. And what better season than fall to break out a pair of classic leather boots, after all? Wolverine has come up in the past on The Style Guide, specifically when talking the best boots for fall. Why not get ready for the season with the real deal, the Wolverine 1000 Mile Boot? Ehh? Yessir, Wolverine has nearly outdone themselves once again with this easily wearable, ridiculously well-crafted silhouette — and again, the time is just right to pick up the 1000 Mile Boots, my friends. And if I were you, I’d wear them to your next tailgate, on a bar crawl or to the office when paired up with a stylish fall blazer. They’re that good.

A tough silhouette that’s not too bulky — wearable with jeans or wool trousers in equal measure.

Like other Style Guide favorites — including the Original Chippewa Service Boots — this pair of 1000 Mile Boots is built to last right here in America. Wolverine uses uncompromising standards in crafting boots that can work with every single one of your fall menswear essentials, from rugged dark blue denim and a light blue denim shirt to faded black denim and a slim striped henley — and that’s only the beginning. The thing with the Wolverine Original 1000 Mile Boots  is that they’re only going to get better the more you wear them. Heck, the pattern of the boots itself is recreated from 1914, when the original 1000 Mile Boots  launched. And the leather?  It comes from Horween, perhaps the country’s foremost leather crafters. Throw in well-considered details like flat waxed laces and a leather outsole, and you’ve got a stunning pair of boots that can certainly last … beyond a thousand miles. See what I did there? At any rate, the craftsmanship and rugged appeal of the 1000 Mile Boots keeps going and going. OK, we’re done now. Thanks for reading!

Will the Wolverine Original 1000 Mile Boots be making their way into your footwear rotation this fall? How would you style the 1000 Mile Boots?

by Beau H.

See Now, Buy Now: Layer Up For Fall with the Rugged Taylor Stitch Utility Shirt

Taylor Stitch Utility Shirt

Just what rugged fall style calls for — great fabric, serious functionality and strong Taylor Stitch construction.

Let’s get one thing straight off the bat — the Taylor Stitch Utility Shirt could be the new fall menswear essential you need now. Are we still slowly but surely transitioning into the chilly depths of fall? We sure are. But the beauty of #menswear lies in being able to plan ahead — and the Taylor Stitch Utility Shirt is a great place to start. San Francisco-based Taylor Stitch consistently brings great gear to the table, season after season and month after month. Whether we’re talking winter style picks like the ridiculously rugged  Rover Jacket or pieces that are fit for year-round wear, like the Taylor Stitch Everyday Chambray Shirt, you know that you’re getting durability, quality and classic style.

Certainly, the Taylor Stitch Utility Shirt checks each of those boxes — and that’s why it’s worth considering for early fall layering and beyond. It’s the kind of shirt you could team up with a rugged henley and American-made denim on a chilly fall night, and you could also layer it reliably under a slim topcoat as the depths of winter descend upon us. Heck, you could even pack it in your bag for one last trip to the beach — should it get chilly during an evening bonfire, you’re all set. The Utility Shirt‘s versatility and rugged good looks start, as always, with excellent Taylor Stitch fabrication.

Rugged details, tough fabric and a classic Taylor Stitch fit make the Utility Shirt essential fall shopping.

The brand’s use of Merino wool featuring a newly developed Serona fiber offers everything from durability to a hint of stretch to stain resistance — that makes the Utility Shirt sound too good to be true, right? Well, just know that it’s available for a decent price (under $150!) — that’s yet another classic Taylor Stitch move to be applauded. And in the way of other design details, Taylor Stitch also gets it right, from the button chest pocket to the powder-coated aluminum buttons. Take the fall-friendly Moss Herringbone, too. It gives the Utility Shirt  an earthy tone that teams well with everything from slim black denim and classic suede chukkas to tan chinos and brown leather boots for a play on the same color family. And with the brand’s essential, tailored cut — able to be worn tucked or untucked — plus double-stitch buttons and buttonholes, you’re getting a shirt with every detail considered. Would you expect anything less from Taylor Stitch? Surely not.  Snag the Taylor Stitch Utility Shirt now while it’s around, and you’re one step closer to essential fall style.

Thanks for reading — stay stylish!

-Beau

by Beau H.

Online Shopping Picks: The Best Men’s Boots to Buy This Fall

My friends, it’s that time of the season again — time to talk about the best men’s boots to buy for fall. The season is, as I’ve said in past weeks, perhaps the best for us #menswear fans — particularly if you’re a fan of rugged fall style essentials. We get to break out our favorite layers, from a slim denim trucker jacket to a rugged striped henley, and better yet … we get to break out stylish leather boots aplenty all along the way. A great pair of leather boots can complement nearly any outfit, and I think you’ll find that the picks below do just that. A herringbone blazer and slim dark denim? Throw on a pair of classic leather chukkas. A casual striped henley and grey selvedge denim? Stylish suede boots ought to do the trick. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the below picks.  Again, the right pair of leather boots  — affordably priced, well-made and supremely stylish — can take you from football tailgate to bar crawl and back, with a week of work in between, of course. So, start checking a few items off your men’s style wish list this season; I know I’ve got a few more picks to add to mine. Follow along on Instagram for real-time style updates, and let me know how we’re doing over at The Style Guide Facebook page.

#1. Original Chippewa 6-Inch Service Boot in Crazyhorse — $270
Original Chippewa

A not-too-bulky pair of rugged fall boots featuring durable construction and great looks.

Believe you me, it’s tough to play favorites when it comes to rugged leather boots for the fall season — but Original Chippewa just might take the cake when it comes to the  brand’s 6-Inch Service Boot. With a rugged silhouette that’s not too bulky — plus premium construction and a quality price — the 6-Inch Service Boot is darn near the whole package. Wear it with your favorite pairr of dark denim and a black moto jacket for edgy weekend fall style.

#2.  Hudson Shoes Elmore Boot in Black — $270

A sleeker, modern combat boot with plenty of style to burn.

Fancy something a little more sleek and less rugged? Hudson Shoes has what you’re looking for when it comes to the Elmore Boot. With the look of a classic combat boot, the Elmore Boot should lend itself well to rock n’roll-ready outfits — think slim, faded grey denim and a stylish graphic tee. The slick black color also lends itself to dressier pairings — if you’ve got a tan or grey herringbone suit in your rotation, the Hudson Shoes Elmore Boots are the boots with which to wear it.

#3.  Astorflex Bootflex in Dark Khaki — $190
Astorflex Bootflex

A rugged-yet-comfortable pair of lace-up boots.

Long a favorite around these parts for blending sustainability and great looks, Astorflex has been making — in recent months, anyways — what could just be your new favorite pair of boots — the Astorflex Bootflex in Dark Khaki.  Finished with a natural rubber sole for comfort and done up in a versatile shade of deep tan, the Astorflex Bootflex should work quite stylishly for plenty of casual fall outings — from the pumpkin patch to your next football tailgate.
#4. Red Wing Iron Ranger Boot in Harness — $300

As good as it gets — the legendary Iron Ranger Boot from Red Wing. Bravo, folks!

As legendary a pair of fall boots as it gets, Red Wing absolutely delivers the goods when it comes to its lauded Red Wing Iron Ranger Boot. Blame it on the Americana craze of the mid-aughts, but the Iron Ranger Boot has taken on a life of its own — and with good reason. It’s a ridiculously rugged, stylish and wearable boot that’ll break in beautifully over time. What’s not to love about that? A job well-done to Red Wing on this one.

#5.  Hudson Shoes Leiwston Chukka — $110

A sleek pair of chukka boots, made with versatile style in mind.

We’ll throw some classic leather chukka boots in the mix this time, just for fun (wink, wink). As first seen in our Style Pick of the Week series, the Hudson Shoes Lewiston Chukka blends a truly excellent price with quality craftsmanship and versatile style. These stylish leather chukka boots — this pair is an admittedly popular seller — can team with nearly anything in your wardrobe, from a worsted wool navy suit, a pair of slim grey denim or a faded pair of blue jeans.

Honorable Mention: Astorflex Greenflex Rough in Sand — $150

An updated take on the Astorflex Greenflex — the durable, treaded sole is a key point of differentiation.

As previously seen in this site’s See Now, Buy Now series, the Astorflex Greenflex Rough is a recent addition to the brand’s line of stylish and sustainably made boots (but you know all about those already). And the Greenflex Rough updates the classic suede chukka in a few crucial ways, starting with the durable sole featuring a treaded grip. It’s a neat tweak on a pair of boots that’ll work with broken-in denim, olive chinos or burgundy corduroys this season.

That wraps up our take on the season’s best boots, folks. What did you think? Any particular favorites on this list? Again, the versatility and rugged appeal of a pair of boots like the Astorflex Greenflex Rough can’t be emphasized enough — and a classic pair of tough leather boots like the Red Wing Iron Ranger certainly deserves its place on this list, too. Don’t forget the casual, versatile look of the Astorflex Bootflex, too — that’s one pair that you can put a lot of miles on this fall. And if it’s sleek fall style you prefer, the Hudson Shoes Elmore Boots are the ones to buy. Let me know in the comments below or on Twitter as to your favorite style — see you out there this fall!

-Beau

by Beau H.

#OOTD: Wear Your New Denim Trucker Jacket This Way for Fall

Now that we’re truly getting into fall — at least, on the calendar — it’s time to break out a rugged denim trucker jacket, I’d wager.  Just as a cotton denim jacket works in the spring and summer, it’s a surprisingly easy-to-wear fall layering essential — as you’ll see today. The right denim trucker jacket is made with quality fabric and the type of construction that’ll break in over time, so it’ll work from September into November when worn properly. And it’s all the better that Flint and Tinder is making the tough denim trucker jacket you need for all your seasonal style scenarios. From a tailgate to a day trip to a brewery tour — gotta love those brewery tours — the deep indigo trucker jacket you see below brings comfort, versatility and style in sapdes.  And I think you’re going to like the way we’ve styled it, from classic suede chukkas all the way through to an investment-worthy watch. Let me know what you think of today’s #OOTD in the comments or over on The Style Guide Facebook page. With no further delay, let’s get ready for fall!

When worn with rich green trousers and a striped shirt, a denim trucker jacket can be a fall layering essential.

The Trucker Jacket: Flint and Tinder Stretch Denim Trucker Jacket, $158 — As seen recently in our See Now, Buy Now series, this Flint and Tinder trucker jacket features a crisp indigo color, comfortable fabric and terrific construction.

The Shirt: Life/After/Denim Academy Shirt in Heather Grey, $138 — Although a bit pricey, this Life/After/Denim shirt features yarn-dyed cotton and a neat, neutral color palette — plus, those stripes are a neat design touch.  I have a feeling you’ll get a lot of wear this season out of the Life/After/Denim Academy Shirt.

The Pants: Bridge and Burn Polk Pants in Deep Forest, $108 –Early fall is a great time to start working dark, rich colors into your wardrobe — the Bridge and Burn Polk Pants are an excellent jumping-off point.

The Boots: Astorflex Greenflex Rough Boots, $134.98 — Want a pair of classic suede chukkas? The well-constructed Astorflex Greenflex Rough Boots feature a sturdy sole, visually interesting texture and a color that nicely offsets the navy striped Life/After/Denim shirt and the deep indigo of the Flint and Tinder trucker jacket.
 
The Socks: Anonymous-ism Tweed Nep Crew Socks, $30— Anoynmous-ism is known for its ridiculously well-made, stylish men’s socks — the sharp navy color of these tweed socks is fall style at its best, with comfort thrown in for good measure.

The Belt: Line of Trade Veg-Tanned Leather Belt in Auburn, $55 ($40 When Signing Up for Bespoke Post) — As we always say at The Style Guide, don’t sleep on stylish accessories  — this durable leather belt is a fall-ready way to, well, hold up your pants in style.

The Watch: Huckberry Lum-Tec B31 Bronze Automatic Watch, $899.99— We told you we’d get to an investment-worthy watch, right? The incredibly durable, striking Huckberry Lum-Tec B31 is that very watch.

The Everyday Carry: Billykirk Small Carryall, $238.98— With its blend of remarkable craftsmanship and eye-catching looks, the Billykirk Small Carryall is a stylish everyday bag for fall weekend day trips or bar crawls.

I hope today’s #OOTD gives you a few ideas when it comes to how to wear a denim trucker jacket this fall.  It’s a classic silhouette made all the better by the fact that Flint and Tinder crafts its Stretch Denim Trucker Jacket with quality and versatility in mind — that makes it the ideal outerwear piece atop the Life/After/Denim Academy Shirt.  And in a deep shade of green, the Bridge and Burn Polk Pants  are a unique way to nod toward the start of fall — you can wear the Polk Pants into early winter, too. If you don’t yet have a pair of rugged leather chukka boots in your closet, grab the Astorflex Greenflex Rough Boots — the tread sole and fall-appropriate color make them a seasonal footwear essential, surely.

As I always say, stylish accessories are key; in that regard, Anoynmous-ism is going to be a terrific bet when it comes to stylish men’s socks, while the Line of Trade Veg-Tanned Leather Belt is a richly crafted belt for daily wear. On the watch front, the Huckberry Lum-Tec B31 is absolutely the ideal watch to complement a tough denim trucker jacket — it’s investment-worthy and made with rugged good looks.  Last but not least — what would your daily carry be without  a stylish everyday bag  like the Billykirk Small Carryall? Hopefully, we accounted for all the men’s style essentials you might need in the season ahead.
Happy shopping, enjoy the season and stay stylish!
 -Beau

by Beau H.

The List: Here’s All the New, Rugged Menswear to Rock This Fall

It’s time for another edition of The List, everyone’s favorite bimonthly roundup of, quite simply, the best men’s gear out there.  And today, we’re covering rugged gear for early fall — seeing as we’re nearing October, it seems fitting … right? By now, maybe you’ve stored away your classic summer sneakers and are reaching for heavier layers, pieces with some texture and heft to them. That’s all GREAT in the opinion of this #menswear writer — I can’t wait to break out even more fall style essentials across the weeks ahead. With that in mind, let’s check out this edition of The List — feel free to shoot me a note on Twitter with any questions, comments, feedback … you know the drill. Here we go!

Wolverine Original 1000 Mile Roughout Boot in Amber Suede — $299.98
Wolverine 1000 Mile Boots

An incredibly great-looking boot from Wolverine. Man!

My, oh my. Wolverine has done it again with a new take on the 1000 Mile Boot. The 1000 Mile Roughout Boot in Amber Suede looks absolutely gorgeous, well-made and rugged. Nice work by Wolverine back in Michigan, ehh?
Zodiac Super Sea Wolf 53 Compression Watch — $1,074.98

A truly expensive watch that truly backs up the price tag.

Have we jumped the shark  a bit by recommending a $1,000-plus watch? Well, Zodiac certainly knows its way around a timepiece — the Super Sea Wolf is durable, rugged and truly badass. Wear the Zodiac Super Sea Wolf with a rugged henley and classic leather boots, beer in hand.
Taylor Stitch Crewneck Pocket Tee — $58
Taylor Stitch

A classic pocket tee perfect for fall layering.

If it’s so close to fall, why are we recommending a stylish pocket tee as a top today? There’s never a bad time for a classic pocket tee, and the Taylor Stitch Crewneck Pocket Tee will work to layer handsomely under a rugged cardigan or a moleskin shirt.
Astorflex Greenflex Rough Boots — $134.98

A perfectly made, tough pair of classic chukka boots for early fall and beyond.

As previously discussed in our See Now, Buy Now series, Astorflex gets it right with the Greenflex Rough Boots. These classic men’s chukka boots featured an updated tread sole and the type of color & texture to pair well with plenty of other fall style essentials.

Sturdy Brothers Everyday Belt in Chestnut — $80
Sturdy Brothers

A handsome leather belt that’ll look even better the more you wear it this fall.

If you’ve got rugged leather chukka boots included in your outfit, you need a durable, classic leather belt that’ll fit right in with the heavier fabrics and textures of fall. Sturdy Brothers gets it right with the brand’s Everyday Belt.

Taylor Stitch Utility Shirt — $148

A uniquely textured, uniquely built shirt fit for fall layering.

More Taylor Stitch menswear in this edition of The List? Certainly. With a unique Army Green color, textured herringbone fabric and functional build, the Taylor Stitch Utility Shirt is practically made to be worn for weekend adventures — preferably layered over the Taylor Stitch Crewneck Pocket Tee.

Spiegelau IPA Glasses (Set of Four) — $32
Spiegelau

The best way to enjoy your favorite IPA — right? Right.

While we’ve talked to this point solely about rugged menswear for fall, the season is also an excellent time to break out a rich, finely crafted IPA on a cool night — ehh? The Spiegelau IPA Glasses are the perfect accessory for it.

Flint and Tinder Texas-Made Oxford in White — $89
Flint and Tinder

A well-made, well-fitting white Oxford shirt never goes out of style — agreed?

Another entry in our See Now, Buy Now series in past weeks, this American-made Oxford from Flint and Tinder is crisp, thoughtfully constructed and wearable with everything from dark denim to olive chinos and a grey cardigan.

DSTLD Slim Jeans in Light Wash — $95

DSTLD Jeans

Slim jeans in a light wash are a unique change of pace from your typical dark blue or black denim.

So, you’ve got your American-made Oxford  or your rugged Taylor Stitch Utility Shirt — what denim are you wearing?  With their cool light wash and slim fit, these DSTLD jeans are a unique change of pace from dark denim.

Ventus Black Kite B-01 Carbon Fiber Watch — $500

A sleek, strong watch that’ll work perfectly with plenty of fall style ensembles.

Want a tough, dependable and stylish men’s watch that pairs well with everything from an army green field coat and black denim to a herringbone blazer and black wingtip boots? The Venus Black Kite Carbon Fiber Watch is the one.

Outset Leather Grill Gloves — $20

Effective leather grilling gloves for all your outdoor cooking pursuits this fall.

Believe you me, fall is as good a time as any to fire up the grill at a tailgate or a bonfire — and these durable Outset Leather Grill Gloves are a go-to accessory.

Line of Trade Machined Steel Bottle Opener — $23.20

A sleek and tailgate-ready bottle opener — just add your favorite beer.

Just as badly as you need durable grilling gloves for your next tailgate, so too do you need a handy, durable bottle opener. Is it one of the best bottle openers to buy this season? Well, it’s durable and it doesn’t look half-bad, so … yes.
Titanium EDC Essentials — $89

A crisply designed everyday essential that’ll keep everything you need in one place.

The next time you head out on a weekend trip or a day hike, bring along this handy everyday carry essential — you might be surprised how often you find a use for the simply designed Titanium EDC Essentials.
Thursday Boots Grizzly Wheat President Boot — $199
Thursday Boots

Handsome, durable boots that’ll break in quite well over time this fall.

Last but not least — these rugged leather boots from Thursday Boots are the ideal complement to fall outfits aplenty — particularly if you layer up with something like the  Taylor Stitch Utility Shirt.

OK, Style Guide readers — that’ll do it today for this rendition of The List! What was your favorite? Personally, I love the  Taylor Stitch Utility Shirt. At any rate, thanks for reading — stay stylish!
-Beau

by Beau H.

See Now, Buy Now: Pick Up the Taylor Stitch Maritime Shirt Jacket in Time for Fall

Your new favorite fall shirt? Your new favorite fall jacket? A little bit of both? Sure thing.

When a brand like Taylor Stitch consistently churns out excellent outerwear and men’s style essentials season after season, you start to sit up and take notice when cool products drop — that’s why we’re coming at you with another entry in our See Now, Buy Now series. And one of those attention-grabbing releases as of late? Well, my friends — that’d be the Taylor Stitch Maritime Shirt Jacket. You’ve seen it before as a layering option when it comes to how to wear a rugged overshirt this season — if you read this site on the regular, that is. Simply named, carefully constructed, durable and uniquely stylish, it’s certainly got the potential to be a favorite layering piece this season. and it’s surely one of the best men’s fall jackets — even if it’s technically part shirt, part jacket. What’s the secret that makes the Taylor Stitch Maritime Shirt Jacket such a winner? It’s definitely got plenty going for it. For one, this Taylor Stitch shirt jacket is am affordable steal when it comes to rugged fall layering.

A handsome sun-bleached indigo finish makes it ready to pair with dark blue or black denim alike, and the Taylor Stitch Maritime Shirt Jacket can also layer easily over other essential fall pieces (dare I say it — a Taylor Stitch striped henley). In short, it’s the perfect casual jacket for fall when it comes time to grab and go, whether your weekend takes you to a football tailgate, a day hike, a bar crawl or a bonfire. Taylor Stitch developed and crafted this bad boy from garment-washed indigo cotton in California — so if it can stand up to breezy, chilly San Francisco days on the water, it can stand up to your own fall pursuits. I’d recommend you wear the Maritime Shirt Jacket with everything from a rugged striped henley and your favorite pair of dark denim to a classic Oxford and tan chinos on a casual Friday. And when the time comes to head to the pub on the weekend? The Taylor Stitch Maritime Shirt Jacket is going to work quite nicely for understated, well-designed style. Who’s ready for that first chilly day of fall? I sure am — and you know Taylor Stitch will have you prepared.

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Criquet Shirts Striped Player’s Shirt

A clean, classic polo with eye-catching stripes and a quality fit. That’s what Criquet Shirts does so well.

Now, I know we’ve been talking about rugged early fall style here on the blog for a few weeks now, but … well, what if it’s not quite cold enough to layer up yet in your neck of the woods? Or, what if you deal with the heat year-round and want a wardrobe refresh? That’s what today’s Style Pick of the Week dives into — the Criquet Shirts Striped Player’s Shirt is your answer to both questions above, to say the least.  It’s gotta be among the best men’s polo shirts, for a few good reasons. Here at The Style Guide, we love the all-American style and crisp design brought to the table by Criquet Shirts— and if you want to squeeze every last drop out of what’s left of the warm weather, a  stylish striped polo is certainly a great way to do that. Crucially, the Striped Player’s Shirt retains all the key style details that you appreciate from Criquet Shirts (see this entry in our Style Pick of the Week series for more).  So, we’re talking a substantial, crisp collar and organic cotton jersey fabric. Plus, the bright white base on the Striped Player’s Shirt is a nice nod to breezy style in warm weather. And the fit on the Striped Player’s Shirt? It’s classic through and through — not too slim, not too baggy. So, once you’ve added the Striped Player’s Shirt to your shopping cart … perhaps you’re wondering how to wear a polo shirt to maximize the last of the warm weather?

In short, I’d break out the Striped Player’s Shirt just as often as I could before chilly weather starts to roll in. It’s a stylish, classic complement to your favorite pair of tan chinos, ideally teamed up with classic white sneakers for a bit of preppy style. The good news is, the Criquet Shirts Striped Player’s Shirt works quite well with more rugged pieces. Trust me — with its sharp four-button placket, you can throw the Criquet Shirts Striped Player’s Shirt on underneath an indigo denim jacket, finished off with stylish leather high-top sneakers. That sort of outfit is great for grabbing a beer with buddies or kicking back at your favorite Sunday brunch spot. And if you want to dial in a  business casual look, the Striped Player’s Shirt can get the job done there, too. Simply add a classic navy blazer, grey chinos and perhaps leather loafers — that combo is going to work for the rest of the month. And if you live in a warm climate? You can take the Striped Player’s Shirt with you nearly everywhere — a patio dinner, a rooftop bar, the beach … seriously the Striped Player’s Shirt can go anywhere. Criquet Shirts has again done a standout job crafting a sharp, tailored polo that toes the line between dressy and casual — pick it up now and wear it as long as you can.

Are you a fan of the Striped Player’s Shirt from Criquet Shirts? How would you style this shirt in warm weather?

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: Todd Snyder, The Meadows NYC and the Best Outdoor Shirts for Men

Wait a second … what do the above topics in that headline have to do with each other? Well, they’re the subject of today’s Friday Read on The Style Guide — at least, partially anyway. We’re capping off a great transitional week of weather here in NYC — did you catch this week’s #OOTD on how to wear a rugged overshirt for fall? It’s a great one, if I do say so myself.  Perhaps my Instagram can be of service if you want some real-time #menswear tips, too? And if you follow me on the ‘Gram or on Twitter, you saw my early fall weekend trip to Nashville  — but more on that in a second. How’s your fall style wish list coming along? Quite nicely, I’d hope? If you have yet to get started, I’d point you toward my rundown of rugged fall style gear, published late last month on the blog.  And if you want a pair of stylish leather boots to tide you over,  I’d assuredly point you toward this site’s See Now, Buy Now series. Shopping isn’t the only thing on tap for me this weekend, though.

You know that we’re really, truly closing out summer and starting fall when it’s time for The Meadows NYC, a popular (and growing!) music and arts festival in its second year at Citi Field in Queens. This year’s Sunday lineup — my day of choice — packs in a diverse crowd of personal favorites, from Foster to the People to DREAMERS to Canadian pop rockers Arkells to a must-see classic, the Red Hot Chili Peppers. So, that’s where Sunday will take me — but in the meantime, I’d urge you to check out tomorrow’s Style Pick of the Week. Oh, and if we’re lucky, an all-new Sunday style post in our See Now, Buy Now series is coming down the pipeline, too.  That’s all I’ve got for now — see you out there!

  • Let’s kick this off with a great deal for you — sound like a plan? Perennial Style Guide favorites Frank and Oak, makers of elevated, premium basics and expertly crafted tailoring, are offering you 20 percent off first-time orders of $50 or more until September 30th with the code SEPT20. Yep, that’s right — 20 percent off. Who’s into that? It’s a nice deal considering that the code will knock a solid chunk of change off the brand’s stylish shirting and lightweight sweaters, both of which should absolutely be on your shopping list when it comes to early fall style essentials. Again, use the code SEPT20 to get 20 percent off first-time orders of $50 or more.  That’s a deal that bears repeating.
  • Mr. Todd Snyder makes the type of clothing that you can put on and forget about — it’s just that stylish and easy to wear. He mixes rugged menswear with easygoing pieces and excellent fabrication — and that’s certainly the case with the Todd Snyder Italian Boucle Shirt Jacket, my latest feature for GearMoose! Blending the best of cool, continental style, this piece would look right at home over a classic Oxford shirt or a grey chambray shirt — add your favorite pair of dark denim, and you’re all set!
  • As I said above, I spent the past weekend exploring the outstanding city of Nashville — among those highlights were stops through imogene + willie, a standout purveyor of finely crafted denim — and a couple trips to the very cool, industrially appointed Barista Parlor. You can catch my full trip recap and get some men’s travel style tips of your own within the very same post!
  • Last but not least today: What’s an “outdoor shirt” exactly? Well, it’s a rugged piece of outerwear that can work as a shirt, as a jacket … or both. And I wrote about the 20 best outdoor shirts for guys as we head into fall — once again, over at GearMoose. Read up now, and then learn how to wear a rugged overshirt this fall here at The Style Guide.

That’ll wrap up this week’s Friday Read — again, we’ll see you for tomorrow’s Style Pick of the Week, and Sunday’s See Now, Buy Now feature!

Cheers,

-Beau