July 25, 2017July 7, 2017 by Beau H.

#OOTD: A New Way to Wear Your Favorite Graphic Tee For Summer

We’ve all got that one perfectly broken-in T-shirt we love to wear — right? A well-worn, well-loved tee that’s likely seen a lot. And yet … what if I told you that same style was available in a distinctly modern (and likely less hole-y) T-shirt from your favorite menswear designer? Yes indeed, folks. Today’s #OOTD is all about how to wear a graphic tee for summer… for grown-ups. That means one of the best T-shirts for men, crucially. So, no loud or ostentatious designs, no bright or overly flashy colors … just a simple, well-made and vintage-inspired tee paired up with like-minded essentials. Think American-made denim, stylish leather sneakers and a rugged leather watch.

This right here is the sort of outfit you can wear to your favorite brewery, your favorite coffee shop or your favorite deli — you name it, it’s nearly perfect for laidback, easygoing summer days. Just add a stylish jacket and consider yourself set for days and days of fun in the sun. I promise you, it’ll all work out. Shop the #OOTD below, chime in with your thoughts on Twitter and check out my Instagram account for more ways to stylish your new favorite tee. See you out there — cheers!

A smart-looking graphic tee, this time paired up with American-made denim, clean sneakers and a tough leather watch.

The Tee: Todd Snyder x Champion Track Graphic Tee, $60— Yes, it’s true. Todd Snyder makes a heck of an essential graphic tee, what with a simple-yet-interesting design in cool color combo that’s relatively easy to wear.

The Denim: Flint and Tinder All-American Jeans in Slim or Straight Tapered, $88.98— Whichever fit and wash you like, feel free to take those jeans and mash ’em up with this outfit. For what it’s worth, your Style Guide author loves the fit and fabric of the Flint and Tinder All-American Jeans.

The Sneakers: JAK Empire Sneakers, $119.98 — JAK is a brand that you might say has flown under the radar, yet these classically inspired sneakers in a crisp silhouette team up quite nicely with the easygoing graphic tee and slim light wash denim.

The Socks: Arvin Goods No-show Socks, $30 (Exclusive Three-pack) — Your Style Guide team of one continues to go to bat for the sustainably made, comfortable and easy-to-wear Arvin Goods No-show socks. You’ll need a pair — or three — for the rest of the summer.

The Belt: Sturdy Brothers Everyday Belt in Chestnut, $80 — A rugged belt built with casual, sturdy style in mind is exactly what you need to offset an outfit that’s equally rugged and casual. Sturdy Brothers does the trick.

The Watch: Halios Laguna Watch, $675 — If you want a remarkably striking, tough and well-crafted watch, you’re going to want the Halios Laguna Watch. The bold style of this timepiece offsets the simple tee quite nicely.

The Sunglasses: Steven Alan Bristol Sunglasses in Brushed Dark Gunmetal, $265 — A vintage-inspired tee, tough American-made denim and a stylish leather watch call for suitably striking accessories, like the utterly classic Steven Alan Bristol Sunglasses.

The Hat: FairEnds Brushed Cotton Ballcap in Beach Olive, $48 — Whether you’re hopping from patio to patio or bar to bar, a simple cotton ballcap shields your face from the sun and adds a nice topper to this casual outfit.

That’ll do it for today’s #OOTD. When wearing something as pared-down as a vintage-inspired graphic tee, standout complementary pieces really get the chance to shine. So, that puts the focus squarely on your stylish leather sneakers (how about those JAKS Empire Sneakers, ehh?), as well as handy everyday essentials like the handsome Halios Laguna Watch. Let’s not forget slim denim, though — Flint and Tinder makes some of the best men’s jeans around. Finish it off with the ever-stylish Steven Alan Bristol Sunglasses and a casual ballcap, and I’d wager you’ll be set for a couple rounds at your favorite craft beer bar. What’s your take on this #OOTD? Will you be adding any items to your rotation?

Thanks again for reading — stay stylish!

-Beau

July 24, 2017July 7, 2017 by Beau H.

Style Suggestion: Wear This Casual Outfit to Work Remotely

OK, step right on up — we’re talking today on The Style Guide about a somewhat difficult style conundrum that seems to be popping up more often in today’s economy of the 21st century. To get right to the point: We’re covering the best #menswear to wear to work remotely — so, how to dress for comfort and style when working from home, working on the road or working from your favorite Brooklyn coffee shop (as I so often do on weekends and my days off from the old day job). One thing is clear — you need plenty of the best men’s gear to keep you going. And what are my top picks (and possibly yours, too)?The trick is to keep it simple, stylish and certatinly not sloppy. Think a bit like a business casual look, yet … more casual. And yes, even if you’re not in the office, dressing a bit better ramps up your focus and productivity just a bit. Let’s start with a classic Oxford shirt and team it with other reliable basics — slim grey chinos, a trusty pair of classic suede chukka boots and other favorites — including a timeless leather watch and plenty more. Are you ready? Let’s gear up to get to work. Chime in with your thoughts on this #OOTD on Twitter, and catch my daily ensembles on Instagram. Thanks for reading!

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

A crisp, classic and clean white Oxford — great even for working from a coffee shop.

The great folks at Flint and Tinder do so many things so well, and you can now add a stylish Oxford shirt to that offering. There’s a reason the classic Oxford shirt is a menswear staple — it’s among the men’s shirts out there, it’s timeless and it looks great on every guy. It also adds some needed polish to even the most laidback of ensembles — I’m not saying you can wear it with slim sweatpants, but I am saying it’ll clean up in a jiffy if you need to throw on a navy blazer to head to an unexpected meeting as you work remotely. Plus, it’ll work stylishly through all four seasons. Not bad at all, ehh?

The Tee: Outerknown Pagoda Stripe Tee — $53.98

A reliable tee that’ll work nicely for layering — and sustainable style.

In the name of adding visual interest to your white Oxford shirt, we’re throwing on a slim striped tee underneath. It serves a dual purpose — coffee shops can be a bit chilly if the A/C is blasting, so a tee helps add both comfort and style. Oh, and since it’s from Outerknown, your purchase of this tee champions the brand’s mission of sustainable style. First seen in a Style Pick of the Week entry, this pleasingly textured shirt is a reliable second layer — you can even ditch the shirt and wear only the Outerknown Pagoda Stripe Tee (which I’d also support).

The Mid-Layer: Life/After/Denim Awash Hoodie in Dark Blue — $80

Absolutely more than a hoodie — absolutely the nicest hooded sweatshirt you’ll buy.

As we mentioned above, coffee shops can get a tad chilly. And if you happen to be holed up working away, you might just want another layer to keep you cool and comfortable (you’ll hear that word a lot in this post). We’re not just throwing on a ratty hoodie and calling it a day, though. Life/After/Denim takes everyday basics for the stylish guy and amps them up a bit, focusing on excellent fabrics and just-right construction. That’s what makes the Awash Hoodie such a neat buy — it’s a refined hoodie that wouldn’t look out of place over a classic Oxford.

The Pants: Outerknown Ditch Crop Pants — $99.98

A pair of laidback, casual-yet-stylish chino pants that work for everyday wear.

Once again, Outerknown pops up in this style suggestion, partly due to the brand’s emphasis on easygoing-yet-sharp styles and partly due to its commitment to sustainability. Both are important to consider, and it should make purchasing the Outerknown Ditch Crop Pants that much easier. The versatile grey color goes with just about any off-duty style combo you can dream up, while the tapered and cropped fit offers more room to show off your classic suede chukka boots. Speaking of…

The Boots: Astorflex Greenflex in Dark Chestnut — $145

A wear-with-anything set of chukkas that’ll look better than plain sneakers.

We here at The Style Guide love our versatile chukka boots –any time of the year. Bear with me — this particular pair, made sustainably by Astorflex, incorporates plenty of comfort and a very wearable silhouette. They’re timeless and laidback, easy to take on and off, and polished enough to team up with more refined pieces in a hurry. And they provide a nice, earthy contrast to the slim grey chino pants and white Oxford. There’s certainly a lot to like — no, love — about the Astorflex Greenflex.

The Socks: Arvin Goods Casual Socks (Three-pack) — $36

Well-made socks that are far from flashy — just what you need to work outside the office for the day.

Fear not, my fellow menswear lovers. We’ve got you covered right down to the socks today. When your outfit is composed of casual basics, from suede chukkas on up to a slim striped tee, socks might be seen as an afterthought. Not so fast, my friend. Made in a simple grey-and-red color combo from lightweight fabric, these Arvin Goods Casual Socks won’t slip down your legs throughout the day — and they’ll provide a bit of color in terms of your overall outfit. Nothing too flashy, though. Sounds like a winner on all fronts.

The Watch: Timex Weekender Chrono in Brown Leather — $82

Nothing overly fancy about a well-made, tough Timex watch. Just the right pick for this outfit.

As with the rest of this ensemble, the “less is more” approach works out quite nicely. So, we’re ditching a flashy watch for something casual, low-key and distinctly stylish. And it frequently seems to be the case that the Timex Weekender is the right watch to pick for those types of circumstances. Featuring handy chronograph functionality and a rich brown leather strap, the Timex Weekender Chrono should be your go-to watch for when you want to feel casual, yet look sharp.

The Belt: Line of Trade Veg-Tanned Leather Belt — $55 ($40 When Signing up for Bespoke Post)

A rugged, well-crafted belt to complement those light grey chinos.

Leave no stone unturned when it comes time to put together a stylish outfit to wear when working remotely. This Line of Trade belt is handsome, rugged and very well-made. It’ll age beautifully the more you wear it, and it’ll stylishly complement that classic Timex watch — whether you’re at your favorite coffee shop or the nearest Starbucks (happens to the best of us).

The Essentials: Filson Pullman Bag — $420.98 AND Tactile Turn Brass Slider Pen — $59

Two picks that could feasibly go everywhere with you. Definitely add them to your daily haul.

We were just talking about leaving no stone unturned when gearing up to work remotely, and you certainly need the right goods to get the job done. The recognizable, heritage-quality Filson Pullman Bag is a durable, tough and stylish pick to haul around your everyday carry (plus, it fits with the rugged-casual nature of this outfit). And a good pen — with great writing quality — is an underrated desk essential. Make sure the Tactile Turn Brass Slider is in your bag.

The Laptop Carrier: This Is Ground Mod 15-Inch Laptop Carrier — $419.98

Designed and sized to carry everything you could possibly need for a day of work.

There’s nothing you want less when working remotely than to realize you forgot something essential. That’s where the ridiculously handy and well-made This Is Ground Mod Laptop Carrier comes into play. It’s priced on the high side (to say the least), but it’s worth it. Sized to help you haul just about everything you might need to work remotely, it comes in a handsome shade of French Grey, the Mod Laptop Carrier features plenty of space for your phone, your laptop and a plethora of pens and office supplies. It’s practically a must-buy.

The Wallet: Jack Mason Leather Front Pocket Wallet — $95 ($70 When Signing up for Bespoke Post)

The slim wallet that you’ve been looking for — ideal for slipping into your bag as you head out to get some work done.

Particularly when working away from the office, the daily essentials take on that much more significance. Which is to say: You don’t want to be caught without your wallet. The handsome, meticulously crafted Jack Mason Leather Front Pocket Wallet solves that problem easily, what with its rich leather and easy accessibility from the front (or back) pocket of your Outerknown chinos.

The Headphones: Marshall Major II On-Ear Headphones — $100

Nothing beats great tunes and a little peace, quiet and … freelance work?

To be fair, not everyone likes to listen to music when working. Ladies and gentlemen … I am not one of those people. Let’s upgrade your listening experience in terms of both style and quality, though — shall we? Marshall on-ear headphones are high-quality and distinctive — and what’s more, they’ll provide a neat complement to your home listening experience as well as when you work remotely. They’re well-priced, too. That’s a heck of a lot of positives to consider, no?

There are certainly challenges inherent when it comes to dressing to work remotely. You need to consider comfort and style in equal measure — two areas that can sometimes be difficult to match up. I think you’ll find a classic Oxford shirt, like the Flint and Tinder piece featured here, helps out. As far as your basics go, the Outerknown Ditch Crop Pants provide easy wearability when matched up with classic suede chukka boots. And essential accessories — from a rugged leather watch to a stylish Filson bag — are going to make your remote work that much more enjoyable (and timely). Don’t forget to keep your laptop safe with the investment-worthy This Is Ground Mod Laptop Carrier. As far as musical accompaniment to your day, I’d also urge you to snap up the Marshall Major II On-Ear Headphones. Again, there’s certainly a lot of gear — and quite a few variables — to keep in mind when working remotely, especially if you want to look (and feel!) your best. With that being said — what do you think of this list? Let me know in the comments below!

Thanks so much for reading,

-Beau

July 22, 2017July 8, 2017 by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Mott and Bow Graham Denim Shirt

A tailored denim shirt crafted with premium Italian cotton and an excellent price. That’s a winner in my book, folks.

Ladies and gentlemen, if you haven’t yet heard of Mott and Bow — or the brand’s recently launched stylish denim shirts — you’re in luck today. Quite lucky, in fact — we’ll fill you in on everything you need to know in our latest Style Pick of the Week. The brand does quite a lot well when it comes to manufacturing affordable men’s denim with premium quality and construction in mind. With a range of washes — including the slim black Morton Denim and a set of handsome Italian-made denim — there’s little that Mott and Bow can’t do. They even make stylish twill denim — a pair of which took with me on a spring road trip to Washington, D.C. with great results.

And lest we forget, it really all starts with the classic Mott and Bow Mosco denim — an easily wearable pair of slim blue denim if ever there was one. Given the brand’s history of affordability and quality, the launch of a full line of slim denim shirts — available in both the buttondown collar Wythe option and the spread-collar Graham Shirt as seen here — was greeted with excitement by this #menswear writer earlier this spring. And that’s why right now, in the throes of summer, there just might not be a more versatile or easy-to-wear shirt than the Mott and Graham Denim Shirt — yes indeed, it’s true! We’ve all been through the ringer when it comes to summer style essentials at this point — it’s been too hot for too long, and perhaps you’re looking for a way to switch things up from your slim polo shirts or the like (no matter how much you love ’em). And that’s where the Mott and Graham Denim Shirt comes into play.

With a pleasing wash and a crisp spread collar, the Graham Shirt can very easily pull double-duty in casual or dressy style situations.

It starts with yarn-dyed indigo fabric from Albiate 1830, which certainly has an excellent pedigree in terms of producing standout denim shirts. The Graham Denim Shirt, like the Wythe Shirt, comes in three crisp colorways, yet it’s the light blue option that your Style Guide author appreciates the most. Certainly, it’s one of the best men’s denim shirts out there — if not the best. Ehh? Who’s with me? The light blue option is a pleasing, summer-friendly shade — easy to pair up with light stone chinos, classic tan chinos or dark blue denim (preferably from Mott and Bow). And the style points don’t stop there. Want to switch up your summer suit? Pair this shirt with a silver knit tie and ideally, a khaki cotton or dark navy suit. Add stylish men’s dress shoes consider yourself set for your next meeting. However: If you — like me — feel most comfortable in casual style, the Graham Denim Shirt works admirably well. Despite the crisp spread collar, the Graham Denim Shirt should work just as reliably with even your most laidback off-duty pieces. So, don’t be afraid to team it with slim chino shorts and classic white sneakers for a long weekend brunch or a trip to your local farmer’s market. And it’ll even work with the most pared-down of style combos. Take the Graham Denim Shirt and pair it with minimal, slim black denim and leather high-top sneakers, to start. That’s an ensemble that’ll work in the summer, the fall, the winter, as you dress for a rock concert … it’s a winner all the way through.

Yet right now — in these trying, heated times — I’d wear it with tailored linen trousers and brown leather loafers, along with a stylish leather watch. To where, you ask? To the office and to happy hour afterward, or to your next summer wedding underneath a classic navy blazer. Heck, take this shirt, team it with olive chinos and classic suede chukkas, amd consider yourself set for a decidedly stylish, slightly Italian Casual Friday. Again, as much as you might love your favorite summer polo, the Graham Denim Shirt is a reliable way to switch up your style rotation in any situation you can dream up. And the best part? You can snag the Graham Denim Shirt at a discount through Huckberry for just under $76 (at the time of this writing, that is). Hurry while it’s around, though. Have questions on how to style the Graham Denim Shirt? Ideas as to how you’ll wear it? Leave ’em in the comments below, or catch up with me on Twitter — I’m friendly, promise!

Thanks for reading — enjoy the rest of the weekend!

-Beau

July 21, 2017July 20, 2017 by Beau H.

The Friday Read: Menswear Trade Shows, Stylish Men’s Sunglasses and Allen Edmonds

It’s with a much-needed weekend ahead of me that I’m writing today’s Style Guide missive in our ongoing Friday Read series — perhaps you feel the same way? We’re closing out an incredibly busy week on the #menswear front in NYC, including two whirlwind days for yours truly at style trade shows like Liberty Fashion & Lifestyle Fairs and Capsule Show. This week’s schedule also included a stop to view the contemporary and slightly edgier mix of brands found at MAN-WOMAN show (think tried-and-true favorites like Apolis and upstart brands like Alps & Meters — as seen in this Midwest fall style post).

At any rate, it was great to catch up with brands familiar and unfamiliar, many of whom you see regularly on this blog — from the standout sneaker makers at SeaVees to perennial Style Guide favorite Frank and Oak. I got around in style with my Timex x Todd Snyder Military Watch and made sure to rock some stylish men’s sunglasses, too. And as it were, that busy week of trade show action capped off an even busier weekend, if you can believe it. Incredibly and unexpectedly, I had the chance to see my favorite band, indie rockers The National, play not one, but two breathtaking shows in the small upstate town of Hudson last weekend. They debuted tracks off their upcoming new album, “Sleep Well Beast,” and I can assuredly say after hearing it twice that it’s on track to be one of the year’s best — no joke. I won’t give away too much, but you can read an excellent write-up at Vinyl Me, Please of the two emotional, powerful shows at converted factory Basilica Hudson. In short, I was so very glad I went — no regrets at all! With that being said, I’m very much looking forward to some much-needed downtime this weekend — and on that note, I’m going to leave you with today’s #menswear news. Happy reading, enjoy the weekend and keep up with my Brooklyn explorations over on Instagram.

We’ll start with the menswear world here — and specifically, the world of stylish men’s dress shoes. Among American purveyors of your favorite dress shoes, Allen Edmonds has got to rank high on the list — right? This week, CEO Paul Grangaard announced he’ll be assuming an advisory role as longtime industry vet Malcolm Robinson joins the brand’s parent company as president of its men’s and international divisions. I, for one, am excited to see where the brand continues to go — after checking out the Allen Edmonds Fall 2017 line last month, I can tell you that the brand has some great product — including plenty of stylish men’s boots — on the way this next season.
Upgrading your everyday carry is something we talk about frequently here on The Style Guide — and it’s with that in mind that I’m recommending you pick up the Grovemade Walnut and Leather iPhone Case via my latest GearMoose feature. Ehh?
Last but surely not least, it’s imperative given my *ahem* “job” as editor of The Style Guide that I direct you to the latest blog series here, called The List, chronicling the best new men’s gear to buy this week, this month … heck, this year? Happy shopping!

OK, loyal readers — we’re closing up shop early today! Have a great weekend, join us for tomorrow’s Style Pick of the Week from site favorites Mott and Bow, and we’ll catch you on Monday.

Thanks for reading!

-Beau

July 19, 2017July 6, 2017 by Beau H.

Online Shopping Picks: The Style Guide’s Picks for the Best Men’s Sunglasses This Summer

Stylish sunglasses — like the pair from Component seen here — will take you anywhere… including a Southern summer wedding.

Did you think it was too late to get a stylish pair of sunglasses for the warmer months? Think again. There’s no better time than right now to get in on a pair of the best sunglasses this summer — particularly if you pick up an investment-worthy pair, they’ll practically pay for themselves the more you wear them. We like to help you out — that’s just how we do it at The Style Guide. It’s certainly the case that sunglasses belong on your list of summer style essentials. Whether you throw them on along with your favorite new beach gear or use them as a finishing touch as you suit up in excellent summer wedding style, the right pair of sunglasses says a lot about you. Certain pairs project a classic edge — like timeless Aviator sunglasses — while others offer a bit more modern vibes. The key lies in choosing the pair that’s right for you, and then wearing it however you may please. Throw on slick shades, a classic pocket tee and slim chino shorts, and you’re set for a casual Sunday brunch. And keep a pair handy as you dress up your polo shirt to head to the office, too. There’s no way to go wrong when you pick up a pair of the best men’s sunglasses — no more idle chit-chat, though. Shop away, and check out Instagram to see how I’m styling my summer sunglasses.

#1. Bespoke Post Shine Box, $45 (When Signing Up for Bespoke Post)

One Bespoke Post Box, multiple options in terms of sunglasses and stylish gear.

Taking the top spot on this list is the Bespoke Post Shine Box, an incomparable purchase that’s simply more than your new favorite pair of sunglasses. Like other products being offered up by stellar E-commerce shop Bespoke Post, you get plenty of excellent value. Starting with your pick of quick-selling shades, the Shine Box also comes complete with a handsome leather carrying case and a stylish-looking microfiber cloth. That’s everything you need to keep your stylish sunglasses looking fresh — all you need to do is match them accordingly in your next #OOTD.

#2. Raen Optics Wiley Sunglasses (Polarized) — $170 OR Raen Optics Wiley Sunglassess (Non-Polarized) — $135

Two distinct levels of functionality for the discerning shopper.

Yessir, we’ve got one brand — the stellar Raen Optics — and two standout options filling in the second spot in this list of the best men’s sunglasses. How exactly does that work out? Well, two different price points and two different levels of functionality necessitate their inclusion here. The only difference comes in the frame design — if you prefer a sleeker look, the non-polarized option is the way to go. The crucial takeaway? Shades from Raen Optics offer style points in spades, no matter the silhouette.

#3. Sunski Dipseas Sunglasses — $55

A slick circular lens design and striking color lend these to head-turning summer style.

For the guy who prefers something unique, eye-catching and inexpensive, the Sunski Dipseas sure do fit the bill. Topping out at just over $50, these affordable sunglasses really are one-of-a-kind style in the market, particularly when you consider the cool lens design and those strikingly bright lenses. The Sunski Dipseas are the sort of pair of sunglasses to wear with a breezy camp shirt and stylish linen trousers as you lounge on a patio or soak up some rays on a tropical vacation — can you feel that sun yet?

#4. Ray-Ban Classic Aviator Sunglasses — $150

A timeless option that works with everything in your wardrobe.

Some sunglass styles are so iconic and recognizable, they feel like they’ve been around forever. That’s the great thing about Ray-Ban Aviator sunglasses — for an agreeable price, you get timeless style that’s built to last. The aviator style arguably looks good on everybody, and you can wear the Ray-Ban Aviators with darn near everything in your closet. From a tailored summer suit to a laidback patterned short-sleeve shirt or a classic pocket tee, there’s no #menswear piece that makes everything you wear look great quite like the Ray-Ban Aviator.

#5. Steven Alan Willard Sunglasses in Tortoise — $185

Distinctive, stylish and well-made — you get the whole package with the Steven Alan Willard Sunglasses.

OK, let’s say you’re not quite a guy who’s into classic Aviator sunglasses. Let’s say you want something with a bit more tailored, continental style … that’s where the Steven Alan Willard Sunglasses come into play. With a rounded frame and striking blue lenses, these Steven Alan sunglasses are a more upscale version of the Sunski Dipseas seen earlier in this post. Don’t let that scare you away, though. Feel free to wear the Steven Alan Willard Sunglasses with a slim short-sleeve henley, American-made denim and classic suede chukkas as much as you please.

Honorable Mention: Knockaround Mile High Polarized Sunglasses — $24.98 OR Knockaround Fast Lanes Sunglasses — $25

One brand, two affordable and highly stylish options for your shopping pleasure.

Last but not least — leave it to the good folks at Knockaround to, quite literally, knock it out of the park in the way of stylish men’s sunglasses. Be it the effective, classic Mile High Polarized Sunglasses or the more laidback, just-as-stylish Fast Lanes Sunglasses, you’re buying into ridiculous quality and style for the price. That’s just too good to pass up — and Knockaround makes its other sunglasses with equally great looks in mind.

After all of that, I’d wager that you’ve got a full shopping wish list of packed full with the best men’s sunglasses — right? Whether you start your shopping search with the useful, affordable Bespoke Post Shine Box or pick up an incredibly classic pair of Ray-Ban Aviators , I can assure you that great style is yours for the taking. Reliably sharp and dressy options like the Steven Alan Willard Sunglasses and the crisp, slightly quirky Sunski Dipseas are also worthy of your dough. And if it’s ridiculous affordability and reliable quality that you seek, feel free to pick up just about any pair from Knockaround, including either of the two styles shown above (I’m a big fan of the Mile High Polarized Sunglasses, personally). And that’ll do it for today’s thoughtful look at the best men’s sunglasses this summer — did you learn something? I hope so.

Let’s stay in touch on Twitter, and you can check back here on Friday for our weekly men’s style recap.

Thanks for reading — stay stylish!

-Beau

July 18, 2017July 2, 2017 by Beau H.

#OOTD: Styling Your New Favorite Oxford Shirt for Summer

The best part about owning plenty of men’s style essentials is the freedom and flexibility they give you as you put together your next #OOTD — even in the warmer months. That’s certainly the case in today’s edition of our ongoing Style Guide series — we’re telling you all about how to wear a classic Oxford this summer. That’s right — a stylish Oxford shirt can be part of your #menswear rotation even when the mercury climbs. Although we associate the summer months with short-sleeve renditions of our favorite fall and winter staples — take the short-sleeve chambray shirt, for instance — you can still reliably wear a well-made Oxford shirt in the heat of summer … as long as you pair it with like-minded summer style essentials. Certainly, if you start with one of the best men’s Oxford shirts, you’re stepping out on the right foot.

And in the case of today’s #OOTD, that means we’re ditching slim light wash denim for stylish chino shorts — among other crucial moves to fight the heat. I won’t take up any more of your time, though — you can find the rest of today’s men’s style suggestion below. To get in touch with questions on styling your classic Oxford shirt, find me on Twitter, or drop a note in the comments below. Stay cool out there!

Take your favorite Oxford and mash it up with summer style essentials.

The Oxford: Flint and Tinder Texas-Made Oxford, $89 — Ahh yes, the shirt that makes this whole outfit work. From everyone’s favorite menswear purveyors at Flint and Tinder comes a Portuguese cotton shirt made at a family-owned factory. Roll up the sleeves and order a beer, ehh?

The Shorts: Finisterre Coverack Shorts, $66.98 — As seen in this site’s post on the best men’s shorts to buy this summer, these classic khaki shorts blend a modern fit with summer-friendly fabric.

The Sneakers: Novesta Star Master Sneakers, $57.98 Novesta— So, we’re talking stylish summer sneakers for under $60 when on sale? Seems too good to be true, but is a cult classic that makes an easily wearable set of kicks.

The Socks: Arvin Goods No-show Socks, $30 (Exclusive Three-pack) — Leave it to Arvin Goods to make a nice, Huckberry-excusive set of stylish no-show socks to keep your feet cool and comfortable in this #OOTD.

The Belt: Radius Woven Belt in Navy, $35 (When Signing Up for Bespoke Post) — Don’t step out of the house without the details accounted for — the Radius Woven Belt is a stylish, casual and affordable accessory (that is, when you sign up for Bespoke Post).

The Watch: Timex Waterbury in Natural Tan Leather, $84.98 — There’s nothing too fancy about this well-made, stylish Timex watch — and in the case of this casual ensemble, that works out just fine.

The Hat: Huckberry Explorer’s Cap, $39.98— Between the classic Oxford shirt and the stylish chino shorts, this outfit is certainly fit for any laidback summer activity you might find yourself in. Throw on a vintage-inspired ballcap for good measure.

The Grooming Essential: Harry’s Essential Travel Shave Kit, $49.98 — Certainly useful for more than just your next road trip, this Harry’s shaving kit has all the goods to keep you looking fresh and sharp for summer weekends.

If at first an Oxford shirt seems like it might be too stuffy to wear in the summer, think again. In the right fabric and fit — such as the fabric and fit of the Flint and Tinder Oxford shown here — this shirt can be every bit as versatile as your favorite polo shirt. As long as you team it with like-minded pieces (such as casual Finisterre shorts and classic summer sneakers), this combo is going to be cool and breezy. Seasonally appropriate accessories — like the classic Huckberry Explorer’s Cap, stylish Arvin Goods no-show socks and a handsome, versatile Timex Waterbury watch — also help set the tone as you dress for summer adventures. Last but certainly not least — keep your summer grooming in line with a well-priced and very useful Harry’s shaving kit. I guarantee that if you follow those steps, you’re going to be looking mighty sharp this summer — from the boardwalk to the patio bar, and anywhere else you go.

As always — thanks for reading, and stay stylish!

-Beau

July 17, 2017July 17, 2017 by Beau H.

The List: All The Best New Men’s Gear to Shop This Week

From a durable watch to handy items for your everyday carry, check out the latest and greatest men’s gear — rare Russian River beer not included.

Ladies and gentlemen, feast your eyes on another rendition of The List — courtesy of your fashion department of one at The Style Guide, it’s a full rundown of the best men’s gear to buy right now. Similar to the gear seen above, today’s edition includes a bit of everything. Today, we’re looking at classics like stylish summer sneakers, versatile shorts, a handy yard game and essential everyday carry items. Without giving too much away, you can read the rest of The List below. To keep up with my #menswear adventures the rest of the time, follow me on Instagram — if you please, that is.

Outlier Ramielust T-shirt, $125

Made from the world’s oldest fiber, this tee is soft, breathable and breezy.

Way more than just your average summer tee, this revamped number from functional and minimally minded style purveyors Outlier features exceptionally breathable Ramie fabric — quite possibly the oldest fabric in the world.

SeaVees Legend Sneaker in Selvedge Denim, $90.98

A recognizable silhouette done up in crisp selvedge denim.

Handsome and uniquely wearable, SeaVees offers up yet another pair of potentially your new favorite summer sneakers — except these ones are made from rich selvedge denim. Wear ’em with slim chinos and a white pocket tee.

Arvin Goods No-show Socks (Three-pack), $30

Well-made socks that are ready for purchase in a handy pack of three.

Just what exactly are you going to wear with those SeaVees sneakers as shown above? Other than slim chino shorts and your favorite polo, that is? Comfortable, stylish no-show socks are absolutely the correct answer.

Taylor Stitch Short-Sleeve California Shirt in Red Madras, $118

Terrific work — as always — from Taylor Stitch. Summer-ready pattern and color make this shirt a winner.

You’d expect a stylish short-sleeve shirt like this Taylor Stitch number to be sold out by now, right? Wrong. There are plenty of sizes left in this well-made shirt in a pleasingly summer-friendly pattern and fabric.

Shinola + St. Pierre Horseshoe Set, $130

A modern American brand meets a classic American brand for the best-looking yard game you’ve ever seen.

Thought Shinola only made stylish men’s watches? Think again. They’ve teamed up with the largest producer of horseshoes in the world for a custom-branded set that’ll liven up your next backyard BBQ.

Flint and Tinder Texas-Made Oxford, $89

A soft, well-made and tailored Oxford shirt able to be worn through the summer months.

Because every guy needs a classic, stylish Oxford shirt, this particular Flint and Tinder shirt makes this round of The List. It’s nicely tailored, made with Portuguese cotton and available in a range of colors. What’s not to love?

Worn and Wound Harris Tweed Watch Roll, $200

The ideal carrying method for your watch collection — or part of it, at least.

It’s a bit hot to be thinking about wearing Harris tweed as a layering piece — but as a handsome accessory for your favorite watch? Absolutely. With trimming crafted from Horween Chromexcel leather, it’s quite simply a stellar piece.

Myles Apparel Everyday Shorts, $49.98

A well-cut pair of shorts that merge a summer-friendly color and solid design.

The hits, they just keep comin’ — right? As far as summer style essentials go, it’s tough to pass up tailored shorts that blend athletic material and tailored wearability. That is to say: Buy the Everyday Shorts, ASAP.

Bespoke Post Shine Box, $45

All the accessories needed to upgrade your summer eyewear.

I think we can more than agree that Bespoke Post does an admirable job curating stylish men’s goods. And the Shine Box, with handmade sunglasses and carrying accessories for just $45, is a stupendous value.

Hasami Gloss Blue Porcelain Mug — $27.50

A stylishly designed mug for your morning (or afternoon) coffee.

We’re ending today on a non-menswear note (for once). Maybe it’s the clean design, maybe it’s the rich blue color — my favorite in the style world — or maybe it’s my love of coffee… either way, the Hasami Gloss Blue Porcelain Mug is on my list.

With that, we’ve come to the end of today’s post. Did you find any new, or investment-worthy, purchases? Leave your thoughts in the comments, or join me on Twitter to continue the discussion.

We’ll be back tomorrow for a very stylish #OOTD — see you then!

-Beau

July 15, 2017July 1, 2017 by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Blue Claw Co. Waxed Weekender

An all-around standout bag, from the waxed canvas exterior to the design exclusive to Bespoke Post.

Before you hit the road on your next trip, grab the Blue Claw Co. Waxed Weekender — you’re gonna need it, and I’ll tell you exactly why today on The Style Guide. For starters, you can make the argument that every guy needs a stylish weekender bag in his rotation. It’s an accessory that’s more than just a place to stash your stuff as you dress for summer travel. Think of it like an extension of your outfit — as I always say, the small details count, and your weekender bag is definitely among those details. The best men’s weekender bags get a few things right. Oftentimes, those things revolve around sturdy construction, expert detailing, handsome looks (all the better to pair with everything from a tee and jeans to a polo and blazer) and the ability to haul all of your favorite gear.Today, we’re all in luck — the Blue Claw Co. Waxed Weekender checks all of those boxes. It’s a worthy buy before your next trip — and thanks to Bespoke Post, it’s affordable as heck, and entirely unique Why should you snag the Waxed Weekender over other options, though? Keep on reading, fella.

Notably, the Blue Claw Co. Waxed Weekender is exclusive to Bespoke Post — you really won’t find it anywhere else. It’s got the sort of rugged specifications and strong construction you’d expect from an American-made weekender bag. As it were, Blue Claw Co. designs all of its gear in Minneapolils and produces it with attention to detail — if this bag can stand up to Minnesota winters, it can certainly stand up to summer travel. It’s similar in size to the Owen and Fred Voyager Waxed Weekender, so it should be a trusty trip standby — that goes for whether you pack it with American-made denim aplenty or your favorite suede chukka boots and one of the best men’s dopp kits.

Handsome bridle leather accents and durable hardware give this bag a solid look and feel.

And as we’ve said before, the small touches set the Blue Claw Co. Waxed Weekender apart. As you can see above, touches like a solid brass zipper and complementary brass hardware give it all the durability you need when hitting the road weekend after weekend. It can readily fit in an airplane overhead bin, and with that durable waxed canvas exterior, you can chuck the Waxed Weekender in the back of your car for a summer upstate trip or a weekend at the beach. That brings us to perhaps the most important point. The Waxed Weekender is a bit of an investment at $295 in full. However, get this: When you sign up for Bespoke Post, you can snag the tough, durable and stylish Blue Claw Co. Waxed Weekender for $215 — not a bad deal, ehh? And keep in mind that signing up for Bespoke Post also gives you access to the brand’s monthly subscription box for just $45. But that’s another post entirely. At any rate, the Blue Claw Co. Waxed Weekender is among the best men’s weekender bags to buy now — that much is true. Will you be hitting the road with the Waxed Weekender in tow? Let me know in the comments, and catch up with us over at The Style Guide Facebook page!

Thanks so much for reading,

-Beau

July 14, 2017July 14, 2017 by Beau H.

The Friday Read: The Best Gear to Shop in July, The Best Men’s Running Shorts and Amazon Prime Day

It’s another Friday here at The Style Guide, and a particularly momentous one at that. For one, we’re capping off another hectic, fast-paced and incredibly fun New York Fashion Week: Men’s, the twice-yearly event that allows America’s top menswear designers — Style Guide favorite Todd Snyder among them — to showcase next season’s wares. Held at a mix of intimate studios and the cavernous shipping center-turned-exhibition site Skylight Clarkson Square, it’s a great week to catch up with industry pals (like my pal Jamal of StyleSocietyGuy) while taking in the season’s coming trends. It’s, in short, an excellent reminder of why I love menswear — the diversity, the modern takes on classic styles and more importantly, the great peole who make it all happen. It’s often a whirlwind of a week — that’s why I’m excited for the coming weekend and the festivities to follow.

That’s because it’s not quite your ordinary weekend exploring Brooklyn (as much as I do love those!). No, I’m heading north this afternoon to the quaint upstate town of Hudson — I took a November trip upstate to Hudson just last year, and I thoroughly enjoyed the town’s focus on excellent gourmet food, arts and culture. My trip has a bit of a different purpose this time around, though. Famed indie rock heroes The National are hosting what should be a very special evening at former factory and current rustic performance space Basilica Hudson on the edge of town. It’s not quite your average concert, either. Dubbed “Guilty Party” — a direct play on the band’s latest single — the evening features a collaborative performance “in the round,” all taking place not far from where the band recorded said album. It promises to be an incredibly unique, heartfelt and meaningful evening — as any evening curated by your favorite band should be. So, that’s where Friday evening will find me.

And that’s not at all — in a crazy and quite busy turn of scheduling, Saturday brings the fun, quirky and eclectic New Belgium Tour de Fat to NYC. The craft beer festival and all-around extravaganza blends a circus-like atmosphere (think vaudeville performers and trick cycling races) with live music — as it were, an all-time favorite band, New Zealand indie rockers The Naked and Famous, are capping off the night. In short, it’ll be a jam-packed weekend to cap off a jam-packed week. But right now, I couldn’t be more excited. Before you start your own weekend of adventures, stick around a bit longer for our weekly #menswear news recap. Thanks, as always, for reading! Rock on!

Equally as important as your prep for the weekend is your weekend shopping strategy — at least, I think so. That’s why I’ve had quite the fun time putting together The List, an ongoing Style Guide series covering the best men’s gear to buy this month. From the handsome and surprisingly affordabe Newgate Pimlico Wall Clock to the rugged and handy Line of Trade Waxed Canvas Watch Roll, I’d wager that this is gear you’re going to want to buy as soon as you can.

I’ll be the first to tell you I enjoy a nice, head-clearing jog through the quite streets of Midwood here in Brooklyn. It’s all the more helpful that the next time I pound the pavement, I’ll have a few ideas on how to do so in style — that’s because I covered the best men’s running shorts for GearMoose! Effective AND stylish, all at once.
Amazon Prime Day — the famed shopping portal’s offering of a bunch of deals through its Prime membership service — flew by this week (Julu 12th, actually). Did you shop any deals? Let me know in terms comments!

And with that, my fellow Style Guide fans … I leave you to the weekend! Feel free to follow me on Instagram to check out Friday and Saturday’s music-filled fun, and be sure to join us tomorrow for our Style Pick of the Week.

-Beau

July 12, 2017June 29, 2017 by Beau H.

Online Shopping Picks: The Most Stylish Gear to Upgrade Your Everyday Carry

We always say here at The Style Guide that the little details count. And that’s no more true than when it comes to your everyday carry. We’re talking about all the little things you can’t leave the house without — from a slim wallet to a leather lanyard to versatile sunglasses and a small-yet-effective daypack. And in the summer season, that list likely grows a little bit longer. Between fighting the summer sun with a vintage ballcap and toting along a trusty, durable bottle opener to a tailgate or backyard BBQ, it pays to be prepared for every situation. And you’d be surprised at just how affordable it can be to upgrade your everyday carry — whether it’s easygoing essentials from Bespoke Post or a durable daypack, plenty of brands stock handy gear for travel and daily use at low prices. Hopefully, today’s rundown hits the sweet spot for you. We’re covering those unexpected — and unexpectedly useful — items that everyone seems to need. The next time you head to a backyard barbecue, hit the beach or even stroll to your post-work happy hour, you’ll be more than prepared with reliable ways to upgrade your everyday carry.

The Bag: Topo Designs Daypack, $168

With enough room for a 15-inch laptop, the Daypack is your essential summer bag.

If we’re talking your everyday carry, might as well start with a reliable bag — right? Whether you’re hitting the road for a hike or simply gearing up for a stroll to the farmer’s market, take the effective Topo Designs Daypack with you. Featuring a neat blue exterior accented with rich leather and touches of red, the Topo Designs Daypack is a smart-looking, high-performing pack made with enough room for a 15-inch laptop. That makes it a winner in my book.

The Ballcap: Huckberry Explorer’s Cap, $39.98

Throw this Huckberry cap in your bag and throw it on whenever you might need extra sun protection.

A Style Guide favorite no matter the season, it’s always helpful to have an easy-to-wear, stylish and vintage-inspired ballcap in your bag for situations that pop up unexpectedly. Yes, a ballcap can — and should — serve a functional purpose. From shielding your eyes in outfield seats that got caught in an unexpected glare to keeping your face free from sunburn during an hours-long cookout, the Explorer’s Cap — available in a plethora of colors — is an everyday carry essential.

The Watch: Timex Weekender Chronograph, $77 OR Deep Blue NATO Diver 300 Automatic, $220

Two options that were made for rugged adventure — and then some.

Wherever your casual summer adventures take you, a durable, stylish watch is an absolute must. If you’re bringing along something like the Topo Designs Daypack, then let’s assume you’re going somewhere off the beaten path. In that case, the crisp, classic and well-designed Timex Weekender Chronograph can hang every step of the way — doubly so thanks to the summer-friendly NATO strap. And if your adventures call for soaking up some rays and spending some time in the water, the handsome Deep Blue NATO Diver 300 Automatic is as up for anything as you are.

The Bottle Opener: Areaware Bottle Axe, $17.50

An effective — and effectively cool — way to open your favorite beer.

First seen in our new Style Guide series The List, the Areaware Bottle Axe is quite the upgrade from your standard combo bottle opener. It’s sleek, well-designed and well-made, for one. It’s also a neat conversation piece of sorts — it’s inspired by Norse mythology and medieval history. A regular, cheap bottle opener doesn’t have that going for it. Grab the Bottle Axe, toss it in your beach bag and get ready for an afternoon enjoying laidback brews.

The Everyday Carry Essential: Swiss Advance Crono Camp Multi-Tool, $35

More tools than you can possibly believe — at an accessible price, too.

Perhaps the true definition of an everyday carry piece, the Swiss Advance Crono Camp Multi-Tool really can do it all. The brand says it’s designed to be ultra-slim and lightweight, and it seriously packs a ton of punch. It features, in short order, everything from a bottle opener to a wire stripper to a fork AND knife. And it does all of that for just $35. For your next beach bonfire or hiking trip, you need the Crono Camp Multi-Tool.

The Sunglasses: Knockaround Mile High Polarized Sunglasses, $24.98

A sharp, simple and very affordable silhouette for summer style.

Great sunglasses at an accessible price with quality construction? Nearly impossible to come by. Yet, Knockaround seems to consistently solve that conundrum, making the Mile High Polarized Sunglasses quite the reliable option to add to your everyday carry. For a price that low, you needn’t worry about beating them up too much — take them to the office and out on a long weekend of adventures thereafter (at least, that’s what I’d do if I were you).

The Headphones: JAYS u-JAYS On-Ear Headphones, $120

A sleek take on your average headphones, with excellent sound quality.

A seriously underrated part of your everyday carry? The headphones you’re wearing to listen to your favorite podcast (I’d recommend 99% Invisible) or your favorite tunes (I favor a healthy daily dose of The National). And for unexpectedly sleek and stylish looks — at a great price — the JAYS u-JAYS On-Ear Headphones reliably offer excellent sound quality and a cool silhouette.

I say this to you, Style Guide readers: Leave no stone unturned in your pursuit of the best everyday carry gear. If you’re in need of a new grab-and-go bag, the Topo Designs Daypack is the one to buy, with plenty of functionality for your summer adventures. Everything from a vintage-inspired ballcap to a durable summer watch should also be included in your everyday carry — these are seemingly small-yet-useful touches you shouldn’t leave the house without. And whether you’re heading to the beach or to a barbecue, I think you’d be surprised how handy the Crono Camp Multi-Tool can be. Last but certainly not least: Don’t leave your house without an affordable pair of shades — the Mile High Polarized Sunglasses just might be your new favorite pair. That’s all the tips I’ve got when it comes to how to upgrade your everyday carry this summer. Have questions? Shoot me a note on Twitter.

Thanks for reading — stay stylish!

-Beau

The Style Guide

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

Tag / #menswear

#OOTD: A New Way to Wear Your Favorite Graphic Tee For Summer

Style Suggestion: Wear This Casual Outfit to Work Remotely

Style Pick of the Week: Mott and Bow Graham Denim Shirt

The Friday Read: Menswear Trade Shows, Stylish Men’s Sunglasses and Allen Edmonds

Online Shopping Picks: The Style Guide’s Picks for the Best Men’s Sunglasses This Summer

#OOTD: Styling Your New Favorite Oxford Shirt for Summer

The List: All The Best New Men’s Gear to Shop This Week

Style Pick of the Week: Blue Claw Co. Waxed Weekender

The Friday Read: The Best Gear to Shop in July, The Best Men’s Running Shorts and Amazon Prime Day

Online Shopping Picks: The Most Stylish Gear to Upgrade Your Everyday Carry