January 22, 2021January 21, 2021 by Beau H.

The Friday Read: The United By Blue End-of-Season Sale, Filson x Popeye & Men’s Grooming Essentials

Looking towards a better future and telling you all about the United By Blue End-Of-Season Sale.

Folks, it’s been a HECK of a few weeks to start the year, has it not? It’s odd, at times, to be sitting down to write about men’s style as the Twitter doomscroll occupies the other part of my computer screen and my brain (I talk about this more in my newsletter, The Style Guide In Brief), but in the spirit of dressing better in the new year and hopefully having some fun along the way, I’m going to keep rolling right along with today’s Friday Read. Let’s start things off with a quick shoutout to one of the best ongoing men’s style sales right now: The United By Blue End-Of-Season Sale, as the headline so sagely mentions. It’s a great place to get discounts on rugged men’s gear, and I love the brand’s Responsible Flannel Shirts and really, the entire line of United By Blue men’s apparel. It also helps that the company removes a pound of trash from oceans and waterways with every product purchased. How’s that for ethical and sustainable style, ehh? Not a bad way to roll into the weekend.

The latest Oars + Alps launch is made to refresh your grooming routine this winter, ASAP. Use the code BEAU15 to get 15 percent off.

I want to also quickly shout out another item of note, this time focused on some of the best men’s grooming essentials out there. The men’s grooming picks in question come from Chicago-based Oars + Alps, which works with NFL star DeAndre Hopkins and recently launched its Anti-Everything Pads. In short, the next time your face needs a pick-me-up as you power through another day working from home, use these exfoliating pads to freshen your skin, fight razor bumps, battler dark spots and more. Sounds like a crucial addition to your lineup of men’s grooming picks. Of course, you can use the code BEAU15 to get 15 percent off your order right now. So, with those two picks leading off your weekend, here’s the rest of the Friday Read below. Cheers, folks.

Just two of the best new men’s style picks of the moment, all via the PAIGE Winter 2021 Menswear Collection.

If you’ve kept up with the blog since last summer, when I covered the excellent PAIGE Semi-Annual Sale, you know that the L.A.-based denim retailer does so much more than just some of the best men’s denim. Take the PAIGE Winter 2021 Menswear Collection, including the PAIGE Langford Corduroy Shirt (ideal for winter weekend layering atop a henley, or for stylish Zoom call shirting). Of course, the brand also has plenty of stylish men’s jeans on tap in its Winter 2021 offering, including the Lennox Vintage Weathered Saddle Jeans. Talk about a head-to-toe offering that blends comfort and style, yes? No doubt about it. Shop PAIGE Denim right here.

An easy way to upgrade your skincare routine in one fell swoop.

I talked earlier about Oars + Alps men’s grooming (again, use the code BEAU15 to get 15 percent off your order!), but let me also mention another men’s grooming pick I’ve been loving as of late. After all, taking care of skin during the winter months is critical, and it’s all the better if you can find a do-it-all product that works in a hurry. I’m talking, of course, about the HOMMEFACE Intense Hydration Soothing Cream, which moisturizes and repairs, all at once. It’s a new favorite, and I can’t recommend it enough.

Get your hands on this collaboration while you still can, folks.

Here’s another fun menswear release this week. If you follow the blog, you know that I love classic menswear at Filson, and what better way for the lauded heritage brand to bring its focus on rugged gear to the forefront than through the Filson x Popeye collaboration? Yes, that’s right: Filson x Popeye (as in, Popeye the Sailor Man!). Popeye’s the perfect sort of character to wear Filson, what with his toughness, his swashbuckling love of adventure and his time on the high seas. The brand even debuted the collaboration (featuring everything from a wool cap to a durable hoodie) with a livestream concert from Lake Washington on the Filson Instagram. It gets better, though. In fact, you should head here to read more about the history of Popeye. That’s what makes the Filson x Popeye partnership so cool, and I personally can’t get enough of it. Happy shopping, folks.

Before I wrap things up for the weekend, let me direct you toward GearMoose, where I’ve kept busy this year by writing about classic men’s gear picks like the oft-recommended, much-loved Todd Snyder Midweight Pocket Sweatshirt. Click through to get the scoop on why you need this rugged layer, one that you can throw on over your favorite thermal henley or a classic Oxford shirt with ease, or else one you can layer under, say, a Todd Snyder bomber jacket.

So, that’s going to bring today’s action-packed Friday Read to a close. What will you be shopping this weekend? Perhaps the Filson x Popeye has caught your eye, or else the fantastic United By Blue End-Of-Season Sale? Let me know what’s caught your eye over on Twitter or via my Instagram. In the meantime, here’s to health, safety and a weekend craft beer or two. Cheers!

July 17, 2020July 17, 2020 by Beau H.

The Friday Read: Oars + Alps, The Best Beard Conditioners & the Nike Killshot

Readying for the weekend with the best men’s grooming products from Oars + Alps. Get 15 percent off with the code BEAU15.

My friends, are you ready for the weekend yet? I know I sure am — in fact, it feels as if my weekend started a little early. The big news in my neck of the woods? After five-plus years at my agency day job handling PR and social media, I’m stepping back as of earlier this week to focus full-time on menswear writing and other projects! You can head here to read more, and head to my personal Web site for my full background. It’s an EXTREMELY exciting prospect, so if you’re a brand or agency in need of a (relatively good!) writer or social media pro, PLEASE reach out! That being said, I’ve got plenty to get through in the rest of today’s Friday Read in the meantime. Thanks for joining us, thanks for reading & thank you for your support! Now, to business.

Telling you all about how to get 15 percent off at Oars + Alps today.

First things first, let’s really get things going with some of the best men’s grooming essentials in the business. Keeping your face in shape during the heat of summer is a tall task, but there’s a brand out there that can help you do it: Oars + Alps. I’ve had the good fortune to test out the brand these past few weeks (and over the years, going back to 2017!), and you’ve got just as great a chance to get to know ’em. You can use the code BEAU15 to get 15 percent off at Oars + Alps, including must-buy products like the hydrating and anti-aging Face and Eye Cream. The brand uses all-natural products like activated charcoal and aloe vera in products throughout its line, and each product also features Alpine Caribou Moss™ to reduce the effects of aging and fight pollution (which can harm your skin!). It’s great stuff, if you ask me. Again, get your weekend started right by using the code BEAU15 to get 15 percent off at Oars + Alps. While you do that, let’s get to the rest of the Friday Read below. Again, thank you for reading, thank you for your support!

Let’s dig into some of the best sneakers for men, shall we? While I’m a fan of brands like Brooklyn-based GREATS, it’s hard to deny the appeal of a widely seen, classic pair of men’s sneakers (at least from what I’ve seen in NYC) — that’d be the Nike Killshot 2. They’re extremely hard to get, they work well with dark denim and a chambray shirt or your favorite shorts and a classic pocket T-shirt, and you should definitely read my latest at GearMoose to get the scoop on them.
Just as you should keep your skin in shape for summer, so too does your beard deserve attention. And as a bearded fella myself, I’m going to suggest you check out my guide to the best beard conditioners for The Manual — there’s something for everyone, and at every price point.
Allow me to once again point you toward my recently launched newsletter, The Style Guide In Brief. It’s my twice-weekly dispatch where I’m covering some music to spin, some crucial shopping picks from favorite brands like Buck Mason and Todd Snyder, and of course, what to imbibe (from the best coffee to the best beer). I’m having fun with it, and if that sounds fun to you, head here to sign up.
One last item here before we start to wrap things up. Yesterday, I launched a new series called The Thursday Buy, covering one great menswear essential to shop as you start the weekend. I featured the Relwen Homespun Pocket Tee, a rugged and durable T-shirt that’s part of a stellar lineup of stylish summer tees at Huckberry, of course. Stay tuned for a new post on that front every Thursday, my friends.

That’ll wrap things up for me today, folks. If you made it this far, thanks (as always!) for reading! With all of that being said, I’ve still got one last suggestion for you. A breezy linen shirt, the kind I wrote about in this post — the kind that only lauded NYC menswear designer Todd Snyder can produce — is going to go a long way toward improving your summer style. Again, head here to check it out and read more. Oh, and one last reminder. If you want to amp up your grooming game in a hurry, you know what to do: Use the code BEAU15 to get 15 percent off at Oars + Alps, one of the best grooming brands for men I’ve seen. You heard it here first. Have a great weekend, folks!

August 7, 2017August 7, 2017 by Beau H.

Plugged In: A Chicago Weekend at Lollapalooza 2017

Taking in Lollapalooza with my MVMT Watches Aviators, plus my rock-ready Need Supply Co. denim jacket and slim Abercrombie and Fitch denim — finished off with classic Astorflex suede chukkas.

It was under special circumstances that I hopped on an unusual Thursday night plane ride out of NYC to head to Chicago — and no, I didn’t take a wrong turn after happy hour. I hit the road last weekend to head to Lollapalooza 2017 in the Windy City — a truly momentous weekend packed full of highlights, from great #menswear to an amazing Friday headlining set by The Killers (a band I’d seen back in June) and more excellent tunes than you could take in across just two days. It was my second festival in as many weekends after attending the Panorama music festival here in NYC — with Governors Ball 2017 also under my belt this summer, you night say I’ve got it down to a science when it comes to what to wear to a music festival. What exactly did I pack and who did I see? Join me on another men’s travel style post — it should come as no surprise it was an amazing weekend that seamlessly blended my two big passions! Put on your favorite Killers track, and let’s rock.

I packed up my Owen and Fred Voyager Waxed Weekender with trusty essentials, from my Astorflex suede chukka boots to my Huckberry Explorer’s Cap.

The adventure itself really began on Thursday night, as I packed up my stylish weekender bag — namely, the Owen and Fred Voyager Waxed Weekender — with menswear essentials galore. To head from a full day at the office to the airport, I dressed in a mixture of comfort and style, starting with a new pair of Abercrombie and Fitch denim from the brand’s recently revamped line. The mobility, tailored fit and pleasingly faded wash matched nicely with one of my favorite Taylor Stitch shirts, the Sashiko Shirt — the cool detailing and texture makes it a four-season essential, and it’s yet another example of what Taylor Stitch does well. The combo was finished off with even more comfort in the form of my travel-ready Astorflex suede chukkas. There might not be a more versatile pair of three-season shoes than these classic suede chukkas, which can go from the office to the plane easily.

A stylish casual watch from Nautica and my reliable Huckberry Explorer’s Cap rounded out my travel style essentials. And the next time you hit the road, don’t forget to pack men’s grooming essentials — a few pieces from the Oars + Alps Athlete’s Grooming Kit (as seen on this site’s Style Pick of the Week series) helped me keep my skin in top form. What’s more, I even managed to prep for the festival on the music front — I plugged in my surprisingly stylish LSTN Sound Co. headphones from the essential Bespoke Post Vibes Box, and I was ready to go. The bottom line is this: When dealing with a day at work and an evening of travel, dress for comfort, style and mobility (like I did!).

Easygoing essentials for a day of music and a day in the sun — particularly a fan of my classic SeaVees Army Issue Sneakers, and they teamed nicely with my tough, versatile Timex x Todd Snyder Military Watch.

My Thursday night arrival had me tired but wired (tired and wired?) going into an amazing, bright and sunny Friday full of live music. To take on Chicago’s heat, I kept things simple and stylish with a slim short-sleeve shirt from Old Navy, plus my laidback and comfortable Bridge and Burn Stringer Dune Shorts — two warm-weather style essentials fit for any trip. And just as with Panorma, I found my SeaVees sneakers to be effective, comfortable and broken-in enough to fill that crucial music festival style void. And that blend of style comfort from my SeaVees sneakers proved quite effective for bouncing around Lollapalooza’s many, many stages. That meant staying on time was quite critical — as I’ve found on many a music-themed trip, my Timex x Todd Snyder Military Watch on a cotton NATO strap (similar style here) was a durable and stylish pick. I topped it all off with stylish men’s sunglasses — namely, a new favorite pair of sunglasses from Component out of Miami. And what exactly did the day have in store? Plenty — to say the least.

There aren’t many festivals where you’ve got the chance to see everyone from Brooklyn indie rockers Slothrust to classic modern indie pop duo Tegan and Sara to upstart British singer Bishop Briggs within a matter of hours, but Lollapalooza absolutely delivered in that regard — I can’t say enough about the experience. A vibe-filled, sharp set from Phantogram paved the way for an exciting, anticipation-filled evening — a long-awaited show by The Killers tends to heighten the excitement of a music festival even moreso. Having just seen this remarkable band back in June, I thought I was ready — yet nothing can really compare to the power, energy and joy brought to the stage by Mr. Brandon Flowers and company. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: There’s really nothing that can measure up to seeing songs you’ve known for half your life being played out in person. When delivered by one of my heroes, Brandon Flowers, it was all the more special. (Editor’s note: Mr. Flowers inspired my love for denim jackets and black moto jackets, surely).

From classic cuts like “Mr. Brightside,” “Read My Mind” and the roaring “For Reasons Unknown” to all-new cuts “The Man” and fan favorites like “When You Were Young,” this is a band that delivers on nearly everything that a fan could ask for. That included a soaring cover of fellow rockers Muse, plus a menacing (and yet wonderful) cover of the Joy Division classic “Shadowplay.” This is, simply put, an incredible band. I mean that sincerely, and it’s nothing short of an absolute joy to witness live. And as it were, I positively can’t wait for The Killers North American tour behind the band’s forthcoming new album, “Wonderful Wonderful” — what a run that should be. It was worth the trip in and of itself, and that’s no joke. Incredibly, I wasn’t quite fully tired out from Friday night — and Saturday promised even more tunes and even more #menswear.

Crisp and effective, rock-n-roll style featuring slim Abercrombie and Fitch Langdon denim and my classic Astorflex suede chukkas.

Although Saturday dawned hot and sunny once again, I went with sharp and simple style — perhaps inspired in part by the style of Brandon Flowers, who frequently favors all-black get-ups. For me, that meant injecting some color and texture on the footwear front with my Astorflex suede chukkas and topping it off with another pair of slim Abercrombie and Fitch Langdon denim in a slightly faded black wash. Perfect for a festival — particularly when teamed with my Knickerbocker Mfg. Co. Pocke Tube Tee. For taking on the day and seeing the vibe-filled, standout rock of The xx later, an all-black uniform certainly felt right — my trusty Timex for J. Crew field watch helped add some texture and visual interest to the look, too. Once again, I just had to get ready for the day with the stylish and high-quality LSTN Sound Co. headphones from my Bespoke Post Vibes Box.

Saturday itself brought out a terrific mix of live acts, too. Canadian rockers Alvvays — a band that’s been on my list for more than two years now — brought a shimmery, sunny mix of indie rock to the Bud Light Stage in the afternoon. Later in the evening, personal favorites The Head and the Heart delivered just as rousing a performance as they did at Govenors Ball 2017 and on a winter road trip I took to Baltimore to see them play. And throughout the day, Lollapalooza delivered just as solid of a mix of artists as one might expect — from L.A. rockers Warpaint to the joyous dance grooves of pop duo Sylvan Esso and the unique rhythm and quirky vibes of British rockers alt-J (another favorite of mine). The experience and atmosphere was truly jam-packed and lively — it was as busy a two days as I’ve had at a music festival, particularly navigating multiple stages and trying to stay on time. Again, dressing for a music festival in style proved absolutely critical, and I hope my gear was up to the test. As it were, my all-black get-up fit right in during a powerful, transcendent Saturday night headlining set by British rockers The xx — another personal favorite and another band that made the entire trip worth it.

Travel-ready gear for the flight back — my Need Supply Co. denim jacket and my new Bridge and Burn Basic Tee got the job done on my top half, while my Kit Culture stretch twill pants were suitably travel-ready.

All too soon, it was time to hit the road back to Chicago — my schedule precluded me from staying another day to take in the powerful rock and spectacular live show that is Arcade Fire, but I left Chicago with nothing but happy memories from an incredible weekend of amazing music. And with a stylish weekender bag and men’s grooming essentials from Oars + Alps in tow, I made sure to dress for the road accordingly. I started out once again with my versatile Astorflex suede chukkas — they’re as comfortable and sustainable a pair of classic chukka boots as you’ll find. They were a sharp complement to my Kit Culture stretch twill pants, a tailored set of chinos that feels like an easy-to-wear pair of sweatpants. When topped off with my Need Supply Co. Denim Jacket in 96 — a retro-inspired, versatile denim jacket — I was more than ready to deal with blasting airport air conditioning. Between the light wash and the quality construction, the denim jacket was a cool topper to a new Bridge and Burn Basic Tee — think an ultra-soft blended T-shirt built with made-in-America craftsmanship. The next time you hit the road, reach for breezy basics, a well-made denim jacket and go-anywhere pieces like suede chukkas.

With all that travel in the books, I was glad to make it home last night — and it was all the better to get back to Brooklyn knowing I’d had such an amazing, fulfilling trip. Hopping on a flight to a music festival can feel like a long journey at times, but the trip was more than worth it — heck, seeing some of my heroes on the stage on Friday night made the trip in and of itself. I’m also lucky I was able to pack up just the right gear for the weekend — if I can continue to make the trip in years to come, I’ll be looking at a longer trek than just a subway ride … and I know it’ll certainly pay off.

Did you manage to make the trek to Lollapalooza? What did you bring along with you?

Lastly — thanks for reading!

-Beau

May 22, 2017May 9, 2017 by Beau H.

Style Suggestion: How to Dress for Memorial Day This Year

Check your calendars, hurry — it’s Memorial Day weekend comin’ at ya! And if you’re wondering how to dress for Memorial Day, you’ll like today’s post. It’s the first real full summer weekend, and that’s much-welcomed around these parts. If you missed out on taking a spring road trip or hitting the road for spring break, it’s a chance to get away from town and hopefully enjoy some lovely weather and time with friends & the fam. I’ll be trekking down to Florida for a great long weekend with family, and I had the chance to travel to upstate New York for Memorial Day last year — both prime chances to break out some stellar #menswear. So, let’s assume you’ve got gear like a stylish leather weekend bag and a functional dopp kit at the ready — what are you going to wear at your destination? Be it exploring a boardwalk, strolling through a quaint downtown or catching some rays, today’s Style Guide suggestion has it all. Let me know what you think over on Twitter, and keep up with my fast-moving style on Instagram.

The Shirt: Criquet Shirts Club Shirt in Navy and Mint Stripe — $84

A new take on the polo shirt, with a tailored fit and comfortable fabric.

Listen up: If you’re looking for a warm-weather staple that can work just as stylishly at a Memorial Day barbecue as at a patio bar, pick up the Criquet Shirts Club Shirt in Navy and Mint Stripe. Like the much-loved Criquet Shirts Slim-Fit Player’s Shirt — as seen in this #OOTD — the Club Shirt is a modern, refined and comfortable take on your favorite polo shirt. It features both retro details, like cool stripes plus contrasting sleeve cuffs and collar, and a streamlined fit. Yessir, the Club Shirt could be a new summer go-to. Be sure to layer up with transitional spring outerwear if gets chilly.

The Bottoms: Birdwell Beach Britches for Todd Snyder 311 Board Shorts — $138 OR Alex Crane Bo Shorts — $59.98

Two options, two scenarios. Grab the right pair of shorts for play, grab the left pair of shorts to swim.

So, we’re tackling two different scenarios here. Let’s say your Memorial Day involves some time at the pool, the beach or the lake — break out the retro-inspired, durable and stylish Birdwell Beach Britches for Todd Snyder 311 Board Shorts. They’re made by hand, the color scheme is neutral and sharp, and they’re more tailored than your average pair of swim trunks. If, on the other hand, you’re manning the grill, the Alex Crane Bo Shorts, in a neutral and unexpected Sand color, are a prime pick (and they’ll contrast nicely with the striped Club Shirt).

The Sneakers: SeaVees Huntington Middie — $108

Versatile kicks that are a favorite of this blog for several reasons — including the easygoing good looks.

Is it any surprise that we’re reaching for classic, easily wearable and versatile slip-on sneakers like the SeaVees Huntington Middie? They’re a favorite for a number of reasons, from the durable chukka-like cut to the clean white color and the ability to wear to the beach, to the pool or to the boardwalk. You could even wear these ones with slim light wash jeans as you travel to your Memorial Day getaway, and they’re perfect to wear to kick back over a cold brew.

The Watch: Deep Blue Daynight Scuba Watch — $449.98

A striking watch with tough specs and dependable style for the road, for the beach and beyond.

Here’s where we really drive home the idea of versatile, accessible style. Heading out for a four-day weekend? You just might be all set with one watch — that’s right, just one. The Deep Blue Daynight Scuba Watch is that very timepiece, what with the durable specs to work on land or at sea, with great style to go along with it. Take it in the pool, take it in the ocean and wear it to grill burgers after — the Deep Blue Daynight Scuba Watch merges rugged good looks with dependable style.

The Sunglasses: Raen Optics Arlo Sunglasses — $109.98

Sharp and modern-yet-retro style in a pair of sunglasses that barely top $100.

We here at The Style Guide champion the idea of style that looks great and goes wherever you go — that’s also the case when it comes to accessories. And when you consider the vintage look and sharp style of the Raen Optics Arlo Sunglasses, you get all of that and then some. Handcrafted in France, the Arlo Sunglasses, just like the SeaVees Huntington Middie, can go all manner of places beyond Memorial Day weekend. And when you break ’em out to head to the beach, you just might be the best-dressed guy there.

The Essentials: Huckberry Explorer’s Cap in Charcoal — $39.98 AND Billykirk Simple Tote in Ash — $184.98

Two easy-to-wear and easy-to-pair summer style picks.

You’ll notice we’re sticking with a neutral, essential color palette of charcoal for these two fine and dandy everyday carry pieces. If you’re going to be spending time out in the sun — patio bar or beach — you’ll need some stylish protection from the sun. Enter the Huckberry Explorer’s Cap in Charcoal — who doesn’t love a well-made, retro-inspired ballcap? And the Billykirk Simple Tote in Ash is a mighty fine way to lug around a six-pack, your sunscreen and perhaps stylish wireless headphones to wear at the beach.

The Must-Have: Oars + Alps Athlete’s Grooming Kit — $43.98

The handy, simple-to-use and effective grooming kit to bring with you.

Whether you’re taking a plane, a train or an automobile (get it?) to your Memorial Day getaway, you need quick and easy grooming solutions. With effective performance and an easily packable nature, the Oars + Alps Athlete’s Grooming Kit could be just the solution you need. I covered it recently in my Style Pick of the Week series, and it’s a surefire winner in terms of keeping your skin looking fresh — no matter how many brews you have this weekend.

The “Gift” for the Party: GrowlerWerks 64oz. uKeg — $149

With this uKeg, you’re instantly the hit of the party.

Now, the GrowlerWerks 64oz. uKeg is pretty hefty — to say the least. So, let’s assume it’s not necessarily coming with you on your trip. But if you’re hosting or merely heading across town, it’s a thoughtful gesture to bring along a spot of choice brew for that Memorial Day cookout. Best of all? It’s a functional piece geared to keep beer cold and fresh — yet the GrowlerWerks 64oz. uKeg has a nice dash of vintage style thrown in for good measure.

Folks, that’ll about do it in the way of our Memorial Day style roundup. From handy accessories like the stylish Huckberry Explorer’s Cap in Charcoal to the durable Billykirk Simple Tote in Ash, make sure you start with the right basics for your trip or barbecue. Accent those functional pieces with the right gear for the occasion — namely, the Criquet Shirts Club Shirt in Navy and Mint Stripe oughta get the job done. And for versatile style, be sure to pack (or wear) the easygoing Alex Crane Bo Shorts and the versatile SeaVees Huntington Middie. I can’t emphasize enough the need to bring along a rugged dive watch — the Deep Blue Daynight Scuba Watch is the way to. And for time kicking back in the sun, the Raen Optics Arlo Sunglasses are handsome and effective. OK, I think that’s all the basics covered — right? Enjoy the weekend, folks — we’ll see you out there!

What are your thoughts on the above Memorial Day style picks? What you add or subtract?

May 12, 2017May 7, 2017 by Beau H.

The Friday Read: Abercrombie & Fitch x Tretorn, Oars + Alps and LCD Soundsystem

Is it tough to believe we’re kicking off another edition of The Friday Read here at The Style Guide? If your answer is “Yes,” then we’re in the same boat. We’ve had a lot going on here in Brooklyn, from exploring the borough in style to getting you prepped to dress for your next Sunday brunch (we really do love our brunch here, tell ya what), plus busy times at my day job in fashion PR. It’s all fun and games though, and the fun is set to continue this weekend — I’ll be dressed in spring road trip style to head to Indiana to visit my best friend from college, Mr. Stephen Brook. Check out his work covering Notre Dame football and area sports, if you’re a fan of the Fighting Irish. And if you want to keep up with all the action, follow yours truly on Instagram or check in with The Style Guide on Facebook. Know that in other #menswear matters, I just finished a rather extensive — and I mean, extensive — feature for GearMoose covering the best men’s backpacks; keep your eyes peeled for that one. For now though, let’s start the weekend nice and early with a few choice men’s style (and music!) reads. Enjoy!

Upgrade your grooming game in a big way with Oars + Alps and the brand’s handy, easy-to-use and nearly essential Athlete’s Grooming Kit. I’ve had the chance to test it out over these past few weeks, and I’ve been quite pleased with the results — check out my recent feature on the Oars + Alps Athlete’s Grooming Kit for yourself!
We love talking all about spring style essentials here at The Style Guide — and when it comes to your new favorite sneakers for spring and summer, Abercrombie and Fitch x Tretorn might just take the cake. It was excellent to learn about the new collaboration’s updated take on the classic Tretorn Nylite Sneakers for The Manual, and I’d urge you to pick up a pair while they’re around.
If you haven’t gotten around to listening to two (two!) new LCD Soundsystem songs, please take this chance to do so. The eclectic NYC indie rockers helped define a new era in the resurgent NYC rock scene thoughout the 2000s, and they’ve returned to the fold with festival appearances in recent years, plus an April residency at new venue Brooklyn Steel to boot! So, it’s nice that new music is here — with more to come, if our luck holds up!

One last thing before you go:

In need of a new favorite everyday carry piece? Namely, an essential and slim wallet? The TGT Army All Over Deluxe Wallet could be just the wallet to buy for you — and it’s with that durability and versatility in mind that I wrote about it for GearMoose. Enjoy, and let me know in the comments if you end up picking it up!

We’re all finished up for this week, folks. Time for the weekend! Stay tuned for tomorrow’s Style Pick of the Week, and check back on Monday for more #menswear.

May 6, 2017May 5, 2017 by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Oars + Alps Athlete’s Grooming Kit

Grooming essentials from Oars + Alps paired with weekend essentials — the Owen and Fred Brass Bottle Opener and Graft Lantz 1951 Traveller Bag among them.

We’ve talked quite often in our Style Pick of the Week series about men’s style essentials you need to have on-hand in your closet — be it a lightweight nylon jacket or versatile spring sneakers. But what about your … medicine cabinet? Effective men’s grooming products tend to be an area most of us guys overlook — it can be an overwhelming field to dive into, what with a plethora of options and brands big and small out there. Yes indeed, keeping it simple can sometimes pay off. In that vein, the Oars + Alps Athlete’s Grooming Kit is simplicity defined for the guy who wants to upgrade his grooming game quickly and easily. Available via the brand’s Web site and the fine folks at Huckberry, it’s a quick and easy-to-use set of just three basics that you need now. While we’ve talked about the best men’s grooming products for winter, it’s just as important to keep your skin in shape during the spring and summer. And the Oars + Alps Athlete’s Grooming Kit is certainly made for the guy on the go, whether you fancy yourself an athlete or not. The kit features the crisply scented, effective Active Armor Deodorant, a 2-in-1 face moisturizer and eye cream — use a lighter amount under the eyes, a thicker amount on the face — and the unique Power Cleansing Face Stick. With that versatility in mind, there’s a great chance the Athlete’s Grooming Kit could be the most essential grooming move you make this season. Having had the chance to test out the line recently courtesy of the brand, I can certainly vouch for that — in fact, it might be among the best men’s grooming products for spring and summer.

The full line-up from Oars + Alps — possibly your new favorite set of grooming essentials.

At first glance, the Power Cleansing Face Stick seems a bit different — you rub the stick on your face (avoiding your eyes), and then rub the solution into your skin with wet hands. Sound odd? Maybe a little — but once you realize that the Cleansing Face Stick leaves your skin feeling refreshed and smooth, it’s easy to use. And the combination of face moisturizer and eye cream eliminates an extra step in the grooming process while hydrating your skin. Again, refreshing and smooth skin isn’t something you should let go in the spring and summer. And the Active Armor Deodorant proves that the Athlete’s Grooming Kit really is an excellent all-around grooming routine, what with its effective performance and crisp scent. While you might have the rest of your spring style essentials covered, the Athlete’s Grooming Kit can absolutely take care of your grooming needs all spring and summer long. The fact that the you can pick up the Athlete’s Grooming Kit for a low price is just an added bonus. And it’s a crucial reminder that even if you think you have everything covered, it’s best to go the extra mile with grooming essentials. If you’ve got more questions on the Athlete’s Grooming Kit, just drop me a line via Twitter.

Stay stylish!

-Beau

The Style Guide

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

Tag / oars + alps