June 25, 2016June 20, 2016 by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: GREATS Royale White Sneaker

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

Classic, reliable, wearable with anything, and a bit dressier than the classic canvas sneaker.

So, we’re back at it again on The Style Guide with a pair of classic white sneakers, just as we covered off a few weeks ago. But there’s something different about the GREATS Royale White Sneaker. What’s that, you ask? Well unlike the SeaVees Legend Sneaker (a highly versatile set of kicks in its own right), the GREATS Royale is just a bit more premium and just a bit more fashion-forward, crafted from a premium Italian leather that makes it endlessly wearable all through summer. And if you follow this blog at all, you know I’m a sucker for great footwear (wink, wink) — that goes for everything from the GREATS Wooster Slip-on to the brand’s Navy Rosen Runner. And in this instance, the GREATS Royale is yet another excellent example of why it’s so essential to have a stylish pair of summer sneakers (or two, or three, or five) in your wardrobe rotation. So that’s why, in a nutshell, we’re covering off on a great pair of white kicks. With the casual versatility that’s permeating the #menswear world today, white leather sneakers are a reliable stand-in across at least three seasons (yes, even in fall). But when the weather’s warm out, they’re a great go-to. They add a crisp finish to simple rolled denim and a short-sleeve henley, they bring an air of sporty cool to slim tan chinos and a classic polo , and they work very well with linen khaki shorts and a striped tee (check out this Instagram post for an example of one way to style white sneakers). And that’s not even covering off on the ultimate way to style these guys…

GREATS starts with details like rich full-grain Italian leather, and builds silhouettes that are affordable and high-quality.

That, my friends, would be with a more daring combo — think rocking these guys with a textured blue chambray suit and white OCBD, or alongside some light grey chinos and that same blue chambray jacket for a great mix of tailored style. And when you mix and match other separates — like swapping in a white polo over the suit’s blue chambray trousers — you get an even more summer-ready combo; it’s not often that you find sneakers you can wear to brunch or the office, but these are just the ticket. Crucially, you get all this versatility for just $159 from GREATS, and the brand (if you’re unfamiliar) brings its knowledge of craftsmanship and quality to the table from start to finish. We’re talking full-grain Italian leather and waxed cotton laces, for starters. And if the GREATS Royale is anything like its other sneakers, it should be ridiculously comfortable, fairly easy to clean and long-lasting. You can’t ask for much more than that, can you?

Do you own the GREATS Royale? How do you like ’em, and how would you wear them?

June 24, 2016June 24, 2016 by Beau H.

The Friday Read: How to Style A Blazer, American-Made Watches & Taylor Stitch

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

Although all weeks go by particularly fast around these parts, this past week was one for a bit (just a bit) of reflection amidst the hustle and bustle of NYC. I had the chance to catch up for some delicious patio brews and oysters with my good friend Clay Chambers of Brothers & Craft, who just returned from some momentous time abroad at menswear trade and runway shows in London, Paris and Milan (and in fact, you can catch more on Clay in a Style Guide Q&A). We took the time to catch up, to chat menswear and to take some time out from the grind — we find ourselves in different places a lot, but always reconnect. It’ was a great reminder to slow down every so often and take life in stride (even if the scenery is a bustling New York sidewalk). That helped cap off a busy week indeed, and I’m even more excited to finish off the work week with a special night at Daryl’s House Club (just a quick train ride from NYC), seeing one of my favorite groups of all-time, Lucius. Their music definitely reminds me to slow down and take things in, and even if it’s my second time seeing them, it should be just as special. I hope you get the chance to take some time, relax and enjoy the weekend — but not before checking out the Friday Read below (wink, wink).

The ever-stylish team at Valet offers up 4 tips on how to style a blazer this summer; some of those combinations are absolutely perfect, don’t you think? (Editor’s note: For more tips on how to rock a blazer, click here).
The equally style-minded team at Gear Patrol reports that American watch company Weiss will be launching the first watch featuring an American-made movement in a long time.
Non-Style Note of the Week: We all love some Starbucks, right? Well, there’s a chance they could be underserving and overcharging you — a case is headed to court claiming that Starbucks is overcharging you for smaller lattes; not exactly a great value, ehh?

On the lookout for more style content?

The team at Taylor Stitch is back at it again with the seriously sturdy Transit Duffel — get all the details via my latest post at GearMoose.
Add another collection to your list of “must-do” shopping — the Canvas by Lands’ End line is packed with style essentials, as I found out in writing a brand profile for the great team at The Manual!

Lastly, thanks as always for reading, and enjoy the weekend,

-Beau

June 22, 2016June 22, 2016 by Beau H.

The Product Review: Owen & Fred Voyager Waxed Weekender

Editor’s note: Head here for a host of product reviews on menswear style essentials.

A navy twill interior and army green waxed canvas are complemented by leather handles from Wickett & Craig.

As luck would have it, it’s been quite some time since our last menswear product review here at The Style Guide. They were a fixture on this here #menswear blog for quite some time, and we’re back today with a review of the Owen & Fred Voyager Waxed Weekender. Past reviews have showcased a range of product, from an essential chambray shirt to a pair of classic chukka boots and beyond. Well, here’s another one — and just in time for summer travel season. In fact, traveling in style could get a whole lot easier if you snag a durable, essential and stylish men’s weekender bag — perhaps one a heck of a lot like the option you see at the top of the page. Yes indeed, this bag has quickly become a big-time favorite at The Style Guide, and it’s accompanied me on a stylish trip to upstate New York, as well as a recent long weekend in Washington, D.C. (thanks to the brand sending it along for testing). Would I recommend picking one up the next time you hit the road? Absolutely. Why’s that? Read on.

As seen in this site’s roundup of the best men’s weekender bags. Photo courtesy of Owen & Fred.

Over time, the excellent men’s lifestyle and design brand Owen & Fred has won me over in a big, big way. They’ve been kind enough to participate in a few Reader Giveaways and provide this site with product for review, and I’ve been a fan of their approach to design even before that. They stock an essential selection of, well, essentials for the discerning guy — be it a sturdy brass bottle opener (a favorite on my Instagram) or larger pieces, like a durable canvas laundry bag (unfortunately sold out). The full product assortment is pretty extensive, yet all designed with refinement and style in mind, and that goes for everything from its shaving kits to intricate wall art. It’s with that approach — great design and quality first — that they’ve crafted the Voyager Waxed Weekender, and it certainly shows. In every situation, from those weekend trips to hopping around NYC, it’s performed very well, and I think that trend will certainly continue.

The Voyager Waxed Weekender in tow for a stylish weekend. Chapter Travel Kit by Herschel Supply. Slim Chinos in Light Stone and Jack in Indigo Star Shirt by Taylor Stitch. Heritage Tassel Loafers by Sebago. Leather lanyard by Tanner Goods. Waterbury Chrono by Timex x Red Wing. Adventure Log by Word Notebooks. Maximus Sunglasses by Sunday Somewhere.

The specs are impressive and worth noting, for starters. The bag’s tough, rugged and versatile foundation starts with Martexin Original waxed canvas in an eye-catching shade of Army Green. It’s a different look and feel than the typical weekender bag, as that waxed canvas already has broken in beautifully during the production process. (If, on the other hand, you prefer a more luxurious bag, perhaps check out the last option in this site’s post on the best men’s weekender bags). But in this humble style writer’s opinion, that broken-in styling and feel really is a tremendous attribute in terms of looks. That also means the waxed canvas is more pliable than it is stiff, and that’s definitely a good thing if you tend to pack a lot of style essentials for the road, as I did as recently as a Memorial Day trip to upstate New York.

That’s yet another box that can be checked off when it comes to the Voyager Waxed Weekender — it’s roomy and comfortably fits two-three pairs of shoes, plus a weekend’s worth of #menswear gear. In the case of yours truly, that means versatile pieces like a slim chambray shirt, dark denim, brown leather chukka boots and indigo sneakers, for example. In comparison to my Navali Stowaway Weekender, it’s got enough room for about a day’s worth of clothes more (that is, an extra set of chinos or denim, plus a shirt and shoes). What all this boils down to are the bag’s dimensions — 22 inches in length and 12 inches in diameter.

A look at the waterproof qualities of the waxed canvas, plus the beautiful leather handles via Wickett & Craig. Photo courtesy of Owen & Fred.

Aside from its plentiful space (including two interior zipper pockets), the bag is finished off with sturdy zippers and brass hardware that shows no signs of stress or giving way. The tightweave (removable) shoulder strap is fairly comfortable, although perhaps some leather reinforcement could be added (that could just be me being accustomed to my Satchel & Page Slim Mailbag, however). Speaking of leather — let’s talk about the detailing on this bag. The 9oz. harness leather straps that finish off the Voyager Waxed Weekender on the handles and at the strap are coming at you via Wickett & Craig , one of the oldest tanneries in the country.

That attention to detail shows, as these handles are soft and supple, yet sturdy enough to support a fully-packed bag. They’re also rich in color and contrast nicely with the waxed Army Green canvas (although this bag is also available in Charcoal). And down onto the navy cotton twill interior, this bag is something else. It’s a work of art — practically — that should carry everything you need for a stylish weekend away and beyond. It’s got a rugged-refined appeal that’s unique, eye-catching and classic, all at once. Whether you carry it alongside slim stone chinos and an indigo shirt, or stylish summer shorts and a pocket tee, it’s going to add plenty of practicality, function and classic style to all your summer adventures.

Get your own Owen & Fred Voyager Waxed Weekender now.

June 21, 2016June 9, 2016 by Beau H.

#OOTD: How to Dress for Summer Travel

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

One of the biggest steps in improving your style — whether you’re new to this whole #menswear game or digging in deeper — is making that extra effort to look great even when you’re off the clock. That could mean one of many possible situations, like dressing for Sunday brunch or prepping for a spring bar crawl, but given where we are on the calendar, it likely means you’re wondering how to dress for summer travel. It’s a curious task that can be a tall order — looking your best while on the road means dressing sharply, staying comfortable and finishing off your kit with excellent accessories, like one of the best dopp kits for men (written by yours truly, as it were). The below #OOTD incorporates a bit of everything, including chinos fit for travel — an upgrade over the sweats that some might be wearing — and a navy blue blazer that can go anywhere and do anything. Add in accessories fit for your everyday carry as well as a long day on the road, and you should be set. Got questions or comments? Hit me up on The Style Guide Facebook page. To see what I’m taking as I travel, follow me on Instagram — and we’ll see you on the open road!

Taking a traditional travel outfit and upgrading it with slim fits and go-anywhere essentials.

The Chinos: Apolis Civilian Travel Chino, $138: A staple of any great outfit, these cotton chinos should be comfortable for flying and look a heck of a lot better than what your seatmate might be wearing (it’s all in the name, right?). Plus, they can go from the plane to a meeting to dinner — or just from the plane to a bar, your call.

The Shirt: Bourbon and Blue Beachcomber Shirt in Blue Chambray, $89: Here’s an easy style hack — stay cool yet look sharp by ditching the sleeves of your classic chambray shirt in favor of something cut slimmer and sharper. The Shoreline Check fabric from this upstart brand should add nice visual interest, too.

The Jacket: Grayers Cayman Blazer in Navy, $175: A knit blazer that ditches the traditional trappings of a jacket — AKA, no construction here to speak of — should fit sharply and stylishly over that crisp chambray shirt.

The Shoes: Soul36 The Grant Derby in Brown Nubuck, $195: A new take on the derby shoe, these brown nubuck shoes are made with a clean look in mind; the red-brick sole should offer a refined bit of contrast beneath the grey chinos.

The Socks: American Trench Summer Footies, $13.50: Because you’re going to want a nice, clean finishing touch beneath those rolled chinos, reach for durable, comfortable, American-made socks.

The Belt: J. Crew Classic Buckle Belt, $45: Sometimes, you don’t need an overly fancy belt — just a reliable classic that goes with your best business-casual or your best summer wedding look.

The Watch: Timex The Waterbury, $95: Part of Timex’s revamped line of heritage-inspired classics, the Waterbury is a reliable watch that’ll pair just fine with this outfit — or with a polo and chinos later on.

The Travel Companion: Jack + Mulligan Passport Wallet in Brown, $74.99: If you’re jetting overseas, this piece could be especially useful and stylish. But even if you’re only hopping on a train an hour or two away, this piece could still work reliably well when it comes to carrying a notebook.

As with many style upgrades, dressing for travel comes down to assessing what you’ve got, then pairing it up in ways customized to the situation. So a short-sleeve chambray shirt and a knit blazer are going to be lightweight, comfortable and reliably stylish options whether traveling for business or pleasure. And some eye-catching brown nubuck shoes cap off the outfit o in a way that works for multiple situations. Plus, a dependable Timex watch can go just about anywhere, as can comfortable no-show socks. If it gets hot out, ditch the blazer — and if you still need it as the trip goes on, be sure to store it in a stylish weekender bag. If you’ve got questions on how to dress for summer travel, hit me up on Twitter. Check back tomorrow for a neat reader giveaway opportunity that might just help you when you hit the road next time.

Stay stylish!

-Beau

June 20, 2016June 23, 2016 by Beau H.

Online Shopping Picks: The Best Men’s Swimsuits to Buy Now

Editor’s note: For even more seasonal online shopping picks, head this way.

Here to help you pick out your ideal pair of summer swimwear. Setter Swim Trunks by Orlebar Brown. Organic cotton pocket tee by United By Blue. Eco-friendly watch by Sprout. Snowdon Sunglasses by Tom Ford.

From time to time, nailing the right seasonal style can feel a bit overwhelming. After all, searching for and building off style upgrades isn’t easy. That extends to the little details (as your humble writer so often mentions), and that includes even times when you might feel a bit off-duty. In the case of hot summer weather, that means your swimsuit. Like a slim T-shirt or a nice pair of shorts, it’s a place that you shouldn’t slack off. Luckily, swimwear has come under the spotlight a lot in recent years, thanks to stylish guys like James Bond himself rocking designer swim trunks (007 body not included). However, my fellow #menswear fan, you don’t have to go that fancy — or that expensive — to get yourself set with essential beach gear. There are swim trunks that strike the right vibe between casual and classy, and a lot of them look more like tailored shorts than in years past. For days when you might hop on a boat and then hop off for a round (or two, or three) at the dockside bar, that’s critical. Pick up a top men’s swimsuit below, and chime in over at The Style Guide’s Facebook page if you’ve got other picks I missed. Surf’s up!

#1. JackThreads The Swim Trunk — $39

A solid offering from a consistently great brand, at a great price.

If quality, affordability and style are what you seek, JackThreads has you covered. From its innovative new TryOuts program to the fact that it stocks a plethora of style essentials — from a spring field coat to the stylish swim trunks seen here, they consistently get a lot of things right. These are cut slimmer than normal and should hit about mid-thigh for most of us fellas, which provides a nice, tailored look. The Dress Blues color is versatile enough that these look more like shorts than anything else — see the intro paragraph for how versatile that makes ’em.

#2. Bonobos Surfside Board Short in Blue Chambray — $88

A longer inseam for us taller guys, plus a sharp blue chambray color.

Our second pick here is quite the bump up in price, but definitely worth the investment. In fact, investing in a pair of swim trunks cut in a tailored fit is about the best thing you can do if you want to push yourself to upgrade the rest of your outfit. That is to say, good-bye ratty tank top, hello crisp white polo (as seen in this style suggestion). The nice thing about these trunks is that they’re cut with a 9-inch inseam; while that might be too long for some of us, that’ll hit the spot for others. Bonobos also stocks a wide range of other swimwear options, from board shorts to trunks in a range of lengths, so there’s something for everyone.

#3. Sunspel Swim Short in Navy — $210

Recreated based off the swim shorts worn by Sean Connery as James Bond, and as sharp as you would expect.

Ahh, yes. Here we are — a premium swim short that gives you a crisp, tailored look, yet doesn’t break the bank (compared to the Orlebar Brown trunks sported by Daniel Craig’s Bond). It’s fitting, then, that Sunspel was commissioned in 2011 to do up their own recreation of Sean Connery’s swim trunks as James Bond. The result is a sharp, lean and tailored pair of swim shorts with a nifty front button pocket and a super-clean waist (not a drawstring in sight — not that drawstrings are bad). The cost of these Sunspel Swim Shorts will set you back as much as the Bonobos pair above, so why not dive in?

#4. Grayers Batik Print Swim Trunk — $88

Vintage print inspiration makes these fun and functional.

Man, $88 sure is a popular price when it comes to swim trunks, right? For those of us who prefer a little more color and pattern in our trunks (yet won’t compromise on fit), here comes the Grayers Batik Print Swim Trunk, playing off a cool, vintage-inspired print that wouldn’t look out of place alongside a vintage ballcap. The 7-inch inseam is a solid length that again lends them a tailored look. Everything from a slim navy polo to a short-sleeve Oxford is going to look just right when matched with these swim trunks — nautical gear should be a bit fun, after all. Just don’t forget stylish sunglasses to top it all off.

#5. Zachary Prell St. Giorgio Swim Trunk — $138

Designer style meets swimwear with these Zachary Prell swim trunks.

If you prefer a more premium, minimal take on swimwear, the Zachary Prell St. Giorgio Swim Trunk is the pair for you. Italian fabric means these trunks cost more, but look all the better for it. They’ll again hit above the knee, giving you a bit more coverage if you’re taller. The teal blue color is totally spring and summer-appropriate, and makes them a bit more eye-catching and continental than other swim trunks out there. With a just-right length and versatile color (rock ’em with a white polo to start), they’ll be a reliable workhorse for plenty of trips to the beach.

While it can seem daunting at first to carry over great style principles from on land to in the water, it can definitely be done if you know where to start and you know what you’re looking for. Keep in mind classic, reliable brands like J. Crew for solid swimwear, and make sure you know your fit; not too long, not too short (ideally). If you follow the adage that great style is an investment, take your time picking out the right pair, and then wear them again and again with versatile style staples. Let me know what you pick out over on Twitter or catch my summer beach game over on Instagram.

Thanks for reading, and stay stylish!

-Beau

June 17, 2016June 14, 2016 by Beau H.

The Friday Read: Summer Style Guide, Mainland and the 2016 Tony Awards

Can you believe it’s already the end of the third week in June? It’s pretty crazy how time’s been flying by so far this summer. We’ve got some big things in the works at The Style Guide HQ, including a great reader giveaway upcoming next week with my friends at Mack Weldon, plus tips on the best men’s swimsuits to buy for summer and a stylish #OOTD, per usual (wink, wink). If you haven’t hit the road yet this summer, take a look back at this site’s picks for the best men’s weekender bags for travel, as I rounded up five great ones. In fact, I just put my trusty Navali Stowaway Weekender to use as I hit the road to Timberland HQ in the rustic town of Stratham, N.H., for a great Fall 2016 planning session (again, time’s been flying by so far). If you get the chance, I’d recommend you check out lovely Portsmouth nearby. And back in NYC, the rest of the week was quite a busy one, what with catching an exciting concert put on by my buddies in Brooklyn indie rock band Mainland — if you’re in need of new music, give them a listen on Spotify. Before you catch those new tunes though, check out all the news that’s fit to print (digitally, of course) in the #menswear world this week. Enjoy, and thanks for reading!

Get Kempt dishes out its Summer Style Guide via its partner platform at Urban Daddy, and it’s chock-full of items for your consideration.
Are you feeling stuck sartorially? Here are the 10 best-dressed men of the week via GQ, and you can get some nice styling tips therein.
Even if you don’t follow the theater community, it’s always worth a look at red carpet style — so with that in mind, check out the New York Times’ recap of style at the 2016 Tony Awards.

In need of more men’s style reading?

We’ll have a full post coming on Monday, but for now, check out a quick post covering stylish new JackThreads Swim Trunks, as covered by yours truly at GearHungry.

Again, check back tomorrow for a super-stylish (what else?) Style Pick of the Week, followed by a reader giveaway with the Mack Weldon team.

June 15, 2016May 31, 2016 by Beau H.

Style Q+A: Leland Grossman

Editor’s note: To catch up on other Style Q+A entries, click here.

Catching up with Leland Grossman, the designer and founder of L.11 and the subject of this Style Q+A entry.

As I’ve written about in past Style Q&+A entries, the #menswear world seems to get smaller and smaller — in great ways — seemingly by the week. It’s through the online men’s style community that I’ve made some great connections and friendships, and the scope of that continues to grow. Take our latest entry in the Style Q+A series — it’s quite the story. Through some great mutual friends who happen to play in a kickass rock band (seriously, check out Mainland when you get the chance), I met Leland Grossman, a wickedly talented designer and one of the team behind Liberty Fairs, the traveling contemporary menswear trade show. It’s always refreshing to connect with someone who’s got a unique take on the #menswear industry, particularly when it introduces you to new concepts and design aesthetics — Leland’s own collection, L.11 (or Leland.11), consists of just two items (and a neat logo pin), but both the collection’s tailored hoodie and tailored sweatpant are well-made, refined and stylish in a way that one might not feel about regular sweats. It stands to reason that if you appreciate a great pair of boots or a rugged pair of denim, you’d also appreciate a high-quality pair of sweatpants — right? Such is the inspiration behind the collection, among other focuses.

It’s a neat approach, and shows that even if your personal tastes might be different, you can always learn more and expand your horizons — that goes for all fronts, from quality fabrication to a new design ethos. The good news is, Leland’s already at work on his second collection. And yes, you can pick up a terrific hooded sweatshirt while you wait — let the style upgrades continue! Enjoy the below Q&A, and let me know who else you’d like to see under the spotlight (kidding) over on The Style Guide Facebook page!

A look at just a few of the details inherent in Leland’s well-built and well-edited collection.

TSG: Talk about how you first got interested in the world of style and fashion?

LG: It was around the 6th grade (11 years old). I was getting pretty into breakdancing and was dancing with mostly people I looked up to at least 5 or 6 years older than I was. The hip-hop (dance) community is pretty connected with music, fashion, etc. I think this exposure paired with being in such a melting pot of style really opened my eyes to what was out there. From that point on I started to explore eBay and cool websites and really the internet took it from there.

TSG: In terms of your own line, where do you draw that inspiration from?

LG: My personal line, L.11, was conceived from a very consumer-based stand point in the market. Being passionate about the best brands in the industry for so long, I had built a strong foundation for what I felt was missing. (I’m) not re-inventing the wheel, just doing things differently with the utmost care and attention paid at every step of the way. The L.11 brand is inspired by vintage sports themes, but more importantly, the collection represents the finest details and fabrications at a price point that makes sense, whether or not you love fashion.

TSG: How do you see that evolving in terms of new products or a direction/focus in the coming seasons?

LG: Collection 01 consists of two items, a pullover hoody and tailored sweatpant, done in two beautiful Japanese fabrics. The natural progression is for Collection 02 to expand into additional comfort basics. My take on a full-zip hoodie and a crewneck will be part of the first drop. Also, I’m researching fabrics for a “constructed” T-shirt and long-sleeve thermal done through the L.11 branding ethos. A sweat-short could be on the horizon as well!

Another look at the L.11 line, and what just might be the nicest hoodie you’ll ever own.

TSG: Who’s a great role model for you in the style community, or in general?
LG: My greatest role model and person the brand is dedicated to is my father, Richard Grossman. Eleven was a very special number between us and when he passed away when I was 16, I vowed to harness his spirt and make him proud no matter what I ended up doing. L.11 is about (that), but it’s also intended to connect to everyone’s story. … It’s not about who’s got it worse, but about how we deal in the face of the adversity. That to me is what true style is -not wearing what’s cool or trendy but wearing what makes you happy and confident.

TSG: What’s a major menswear trend you see picking up steam that people might not know about?

LG: As technology has become more advanced, we’ve seen a push from non-traditional fashion companies into this wearable tech sector. In his last show, Junya Watanabe fitted his pieces with solar panels that could charge your iPhone. I don’t think jackets are going to have rocket boosters any time soon, but I’m fascinated by the intersection of technology and fashion. Specifically, there is a style I describe as “Futuristic Explorer,” which is sort of a fusion of Japanese Heritage, technical outdoors brands and pop colors. It’s “athleisure” to the next level. Specific early examples of this would be Nike’s ACG collaboration with Erolson Hugh of ACRONYM or Japanese brand N. Hoolywood’s capsule with Mountain Hardware. My favorite brands right now are in this category, such as White Mountaineering, Stone Island, Ten C and Arc’teryx Veilance.

TSG: What’s one essential item (or outfit) that every guy should have in his wardrobe?

LG: This is a tough question, as most guys have very polarized value systems when it comes to their “things”. That is to say, some feel $100 is too much for sneakers, but can understand $500 for a nice watch. I think the key is finding things that make you happy. A purchase shouldn’t be stressful but rather add value to your every day. For me, that means investing in essential items I feel will give me that happiness and are worth the price. My Shinola watch and Garret Leight sunglasses are great examples of investment pieces that I use every day.

TSG: Similar to that, what’s one item you can’t live without?
LG: My gold “R.A.G” necklace. My mom makes jewelry and when I told her I was contemplating getting my Dad’s initials tattooed, she offered up an alternative. The solid 18K chain and pendant make it easily my most prized possession, and I can’t go anywhere without it around my neck.

To follow along with the rest of the L.11 story and the new collection, check out the brand on Instagram.

June 14, 2016June 7, 2016 by Beau H.

#OOTD: How to Wear a Short-Sleeve Shirt for Summer

If you’ve been keeping up with the #OOTD series here on The Style Guide, you’ll notice we’ve covered a heck of a lot of ground. But with warm weather heating up, we haven’t quite covered how to wear a short-sleeve shirt for summer. Now if you scroll ahead, you might notice this look is a bit layered up for summer. But if it goes get too hot, the jacket can always be ditched. Back to the matter at hand. A crisp short-sleeve shirt — not one that calls to mind Dwight Schrute, mind you — can be styled exactly like you might style a polo or a classic blue Oxford. So you’ll need to look for one that’s cut slim and modern, in a summer-appropriate color and/or pattern (this Bonobos Riviera Oxford is an ideal example of what we’re looking for). And given hot summer temps for most of us, short sleeves are going to be a nice substitute for, well, longer sleeves. A slim short-sleeve shirt can even be called into action under a blazer — it’s a secret warm-weather style move designed to keep you cool. But the below look aims for versatile style that looks a bit rugged, a bit polished and a whole lot of good. If you’re down with that, read on. For tips on how to style short-sleeve shirts for summer, hit me up on Instagram in the meantime.

Pairing a surefire short-sleeve shirt with a mix of style essentials.

The Shirt: JACHS NY Cream and Blue Horizontal Striped Short-sleeve Shirt, $89: JACHS NY produces style staples that are at once a bit prep-inspired and continental in nature, and this shirt is a fine example. It’s the perfect length untucked, and would look great with denim or shorts in other ensembles.

The Jacket: JackThreads Trucker Jacket in Seeded Natural, $79: Why, you might ask, does a denim jacket feature in this photo if it’s hot out? Well, it’s there to transition from day to night, and the excellent Natural color provides a great style swerve from a classic denim jacket.

The Pants: Buck Mason Iron Chinos, $135: Just like the Buck Mason Sand Chinos featured on this site earlier this spring, these Iron Chinos feature a modern cut, nice color and made-in-America construction.

The Loafers: Sebago Norwich Bison Penny Loafers, $165: These aren’t your average loafers, made with rich Horween Bison leather and designed to break in over time. Not quite too dressy, not quite too casual.

The Belt: J. Crew Factory Double-Striped Webbing Belt, $14.50: Worried about pairing two sets of stripes together? The scale of the belt, plus the nice off-white color, helps the belt stand out from the shirt itself.

The Socks: Mack Weldon No-show Socks, $16.50: For just over $16, you get not one, but two pairs of reliable, comfortable socks — crucial with loafers and rolled chinos.

The Wallet: Issara Minimalist Wallet, $69: Nearly $70 certainly is a lot for a card case, but when it’s crafted from rich navy leather and fits in the front pocket of your chinos (or slim blue denim, or a tailored suit), it’s worth the price.

If you don’t yet have a short-sleeve shirt or two in your closet, it’s a wise bet to pick up one that goes with quite a few ensembles — the striped blue-and-cream number above works with dark denim, slim light wash jeans, tan chinos or a stylish pair of chino shorts, along with all kinds of summer footwear picks. When you add in the fact that it looks great over top a pair of four-season chinos and some rugged loafers, it’s certainly a winning style move. Crisp, minimal accessories like a handmade lanyard and a reliable wallet certainly work well in nearly every style situation, too. If you’re hestitant to try one out, think of it like a slim summer polo, or even a classic chambray shirt, and go from there. Give me a shout on Twitter with style questions — come one, come all!

What’s your take on the above #OOTD? Would you change any pieces?

June 13, 2016April 17, 2017 by Beau H.

Online Shopping Picks: The Best Men’s Weekender Bags

Editor’s note: For even more online shopping picks covering everything from watches to spring and summer style, head here.

As spring rolls into summer, there’s a very good chance that a lot of us are going to be hitting the road for vacation quite a bit more than during the doldrums of winter. This is definitely the case for yours truly, as I just trekked down to Washington, D.C. for the weekend earlier this month, and have a few more trips in the works. While longer travels certainly require larger luggage, traveling for just a handful of days presents some style conundrums — both in matter of what to pack, and what to pack that gear in. A stylish weekender bag is going to be your best friend in these situations — most have just enough room to hold multiple pairs of shoes and multiple outfits, plus any other gear you might need. And a great-looking bag is the ideal compliment to a sharp travel outfit. Plus, making that upgrade from a standard gym bag or duffle is yet another step on the path that is constantly trying to improve your personal style. Heck, it’s just fun to have a bag that happens to look as good as what you’re wearing. Make packing and traveling easy with one of this site’s picks below for the best men’s weekender bags, and get to booking that flight. Let me know what you think on The Style Guide Facebook page, too!

#1. Owen & Fred Voyager Waxed Weekender — $275

A bag that’s built for wear-and-tear, yet still manages to look mighty handsome.

The first entry on this list is a real tried-and-true, trip-tested bag that’s made in America and built with a ton of quality. Yes, the Owen & Fred Voyager Waxed Weekender is certainly a stunner, made from Martexin Original Waxed canvas (some of the best of the best) and finished off with durable leather straps from Wickett & Craig, one of the oldest tanneries in the country. It’s beastly, stylish and built to break in over time, complete with two interior zippered pockets for extra storage. After taking it with me on my trip to Washington, D.C., I can say you’ll be very pleased with it indeed.

#2. Everlane Dipped Weekender — $115

An affordable alternative to more expensive options, with just as much style.

Whereas the above Owen & Fred bag packs a heck of a punch in both quality and price, the Everlane Dipped Weekender is a more affordable answer to the question of what you should travel with this summer. It’s made from twill and features a neat, screen-printed look that contrasts nicely with the black leather straps. Everlane has a brand really does it all now from its Slim Pant to bags like these, which really put them on the map. While the price might seem at odds with the expected quality, it’s part of Everlane’s commitment to transparency, and that should work out nicely should you buy this bag.

#3. J. Crew Harwick Weekender Bag — $148

A more casual alternative from a brand that does a lot of things well.

Just as Everlane has expanded its product categories over the years, J. Crew has continued to stick with making all sorts of stylish accessories for guys — like the Harwick Weekender Bag. It’s nylon, so it’s decidedly more casual in construction and looks than the Everlane or Owen & Fred options, but the Dark Navy color should stylish and versatile for laidback weekend trips. It packs in a shocking eight pockets — that’s more than tons of bags on the market, and it means all of your gear — from a classic white Oxford to your stylish dopp kit — stays separate (and clean).

#4. Wood & Faulk Grand Tourer Weekend Bag — $175

A stylish-looking offering from an under-the-radar brand.

Have you heard of Wood & Faulk? They’re a new brand for this style writer, but given the stunning looks (and presumably, quality) of their Grand Tourer Weekend Bag, they’re worth watching. This piece is made from tough-looking waxed canvas and features leather accents from S.B. Foot Tanning Co. — the same tannery that produces leather for Red Wing Shoes. Talk about stunning quality packed into one piece. End pockets and an inner zip pocket offer additional space, and the brass hardware finishes off this bag nicely.

#5. Troubadour Fabric + Leather Weekender — $855

A pricey, minimal and super-premium weekender bag.

It wouldn’t truly be an Online Shopping Picks entry if we didn’t finish things off with a stylish and yes — incredibly expensive — weekender bag. The Fabric + Leather Weekender features vegetable-tanned leather and a minimal, premium look thanks to the black leather and nylon fabric accents (although the Navy, Khaki and Olive colorways look mighty nice, too). It’s an investment bag that certainly would look right at home alongside your best travel suit — if you’re the type who travels a lot for business but wants a bag that’s different than a standard rolling suitcase, this is the bag you need.

While each of the above bags are suited for different kinds of situations — particularly the Troubadour weekender — each is going to stylish and durably complement your travel ensemble and any stylish travel accessories you might be bringing with you. Maximizing a great price, tough quality and handsome looks is going to be critical, too — and hopefully, do-able with any of the above picks. If you’re still searching for that perfect bag, an option from the likes of Herschel Supply Co. might work well. But in the meantime, let me know on Twitter if I missed any picks or key brands!

Stay stylish and safe travels,

-Beau

June 11, 2016June 8, 2016 by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Taylor Stitch Everyday Chambray Shirt

An extremely versatile, extremely wearable and extremely well-made chambray shirt from Taylor Stitch.

What’s one shirt you find yourself reaching for (or at least wanting to reach for) every day? If you’re like me, it very well could be an essential chambray shirt, like the Taylor Stitch Everyday Chambray Shirt — known as the California — pictured above. Rain or shine, cold weather or warm weather, I find myself drawn to a few chambray shirts in particular (because you assuredly need more than one). In fact, I’ve written about a few different chambray shirts here on The Style Guide, from the Todd Shelton Chambray Shirt to a classic GAP Chambray Shirt. There’s a very good reason for that, and it likely ties into the fact that a chambray shirt is such an easily wearable piece – whether you’re just getting started out in the style realm, or whether you consider yourself a seasoned pro looking to expand on his wardrobe. A chambray shirt is the more visually interesting answer to the classic blue Oxford, in that chambray as a fabric has great texture and often incorporates workwear design details — the crisp white color of the piece you see here is an added bonus. We’re talking small touches like front button patch pockets or a tab collar (like the famous J. Crew chambray shirt we all know and love). Lucky for us #menswear fans, the Taylor Stitch Everyday Chambray Shirt is more refined than its mass-market brethren, and has just the type of details you should look for in a great chambray shirt, plus a few extra.

Unbreakable Japanese urea buttons and a stellar fabric make this shirt a workhorse.

It’s made in America using the care and attention to detail for which the brand is known – and that’s something that’s made your trusty #menswear author a big, big fan. From the brand’s stunning Moto Jacket to its Long Haul Jacket and especially its famous Standard Issue Chinos, Taylor Stitch gets it right, from head to toe. Particularly if you want to take a step up in terms of price, but don’t want to completely deplete your bank account, they’re a brand to watch – and shop on repeat. They’ve also done a great job introducing more technical fabrics and designs as part of their recent collaboration with Mission Workshop, but this good ol’ chambray shirt is the piece to buy today. It features a 7 oz. Japanese chambray and genuine unbreakable Japanese urea buttons, for starters. Plus, the lack of pleats make it super-clean and easily wearable with dark raw denim, slim tan chinos or heck, stylish chino shorts. The double needle construction is something you won’t find on hardly any other shirts (if at all), and the soft California collar looks great unbuttoned, but could easily smarten up when buttoned with a navy knit tie. So if you’re lucky enough to get this shirt in your closet, there’s a very good chance you’ll soon start reaching for it every day – rain or shine, cold weather or warm weather.

Do you own any shirts from Taylor Stitch? How would you style this classic chambray shirt?

The Style Guide

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

Tag / #menswear

Style Pick of the Week: GREATS Royale White Sneaker

The Friday Read: How to Style A Blazer, American-Made Watches & Taylor Stitch

The Product Review: Owen & Fred Voyager Waxed Weekender

#OOTD: How to Dress for Summer Travel

Online Shopping Picks: The Best Men’s Swimsuits to Buy Now

The Friday Read: Summer Style Guide, Mainland and the 2016 Tony Awards

Style Q+A: Leland Grossman

#OOTD: How to Wear a Short-Sleeve Shirt for Summer

Online Shopping Picks: The Best Men’s Weekender Bags

Style Pick of the Week: Taylor Stitch Everyday Chambray Shirt