Style Suggestion: What to Wear on the 4th of July

Editor’s note: Check out the following link to catch last year’s Fourth of July style suggestion.

It seems as if just yesterday we were talking about what to wear on Memorial Day — and here we are, now talking about what to wear on the 4th of July. Time flies, right?? The 4th of July is often a sort of “style perfect storm” of sorts — it’s likely pretty hot out, there’s the potential to be moving from one activity to the next (swimming at the beach followed by patio drinks, anyone?) and  you very well might have to travel just to do all that. So, first things first — cover off on that stylish weekender bag to get you where you’re going. Maybe fill it with some nice men’s grooming products, too? Now that that’s taken care of, we’ll head onto the below outfit suggestion — it’s all about staying cool and stylish, versatile and ready for anything. If you have any other summer style questions or thoughts, let me know via The Style Guide Facebook page. Enjoy the day, and thanks for reading!

The Shirt: American Trench x Good Life Clothing Indigo Dyed Tee — $72

A collab between two brands that emphasize American manufacturing results in one heck of an indigo tee.

A collab between two brands that emphasize American manufacturing results in one heck of an indigo tee.

So, $72 isn’t exactly the cheapest T-shirt on the market. But when you’re going to be rocking a T-shirt in place of a slim polo, you’d better grab one that’s eye-catching, slim-fitting and very well-made. It’s definitely an aspirational sort of purchase, but if you’re able to get your hands one, your wardrobe would be all the better. The indigo dye (a nod to the U.S.A!) is rich and very unique, for one. Plus, it’s actually made in America — something that’s still to be applauded in the menswear manufacturing game. Toss on a lightweight jacket if it gets breezy, but know that this tee has you set in style in the meantime.

The Pants: JackThreads Slim Chino in Khaki — $49

A classic pair of chinos at a tremendous price.

A classic pair of chinos at a tremendous price.

We’re going with the ever-versatile JackThreads Slim Chino here, because it always pays to have a crisp pair of khaki chinos on hand, no matter the style situation. These chinos would work for travel style (whether it’s across the country or just across town), and with a little care, you could probably wear them again in the same weekend — again, watch out as you man the grill. The price is stellar, the fit should be flattering for lots of guys out there, and you can rock that color for months at a time.

The Sneakers: Brooks Heritage Chariot Sneakers — $79.99

Timeless sneakers that work well in terms of color and styling potential.

Timeless sneakers that work well in terms of color and styling potential.

What’s more American than khaki chinos and an indigo tee? A great pair of lifestyle sneakers from an American original, that’s what. Pairing multiple shades of blue might seem like a risky style move at first, but it’s one that pays off when you consider the rich navy’s contrast against the lighter indigo dye. The blue-and-white color is a nice, subtle style nod to the holiday, and having checked out a pair of Brooks Heritage Chariot Sneakers myself, I can tell you they’re every bit as comfortable as the brand’s first-class running shoes — with more style points, too. They work well with the casual chinos, yet you could still class up this combo with a crisp chambray shirt if need be.
Florsheim
The Socks: Pair of Thieves No-show Spelurking Socks — $10

Red-and-blue socks make for a touch of patriotism paired with functionality.

Red-and-blue socks make for a touch of patriotism paired with functionality.

Although these no-show socks are designed to, well, not show, it’s still wise to grab a pair that incorporates seasonal colors and a good deal of comfort. You can read more about these guys in my post on classic no-show socks for summer, but rest assured that Pair of Thieves makes socks that are comfortable, well-fitting and stylish with a bit of an attitude. Even if not many people see your socks, that’s definitely something they’ve got going for them; and at that price, you can pick up a few pairs without straining your bank account too much.

The Belt: J. Crew Factory Double-Striped Webbing Belt — $14.50

Just the right weight, color and texture for spring and summer.

Just the right weight, color and texture for spring and summer.

When packing for travel (or dressing everyday), it can be a bit of a practice to take care of things right down to the last detail. In this instance, that means not forgoing a  belt. But we’re not just using any ole’ number to hold up those slim khaki chinos — this J. Crew Factory belt combines some nautical vibes (the D-ring loop and double-striping) with a textured white cotton that looks all kinds of right up against the lighter blue shirt and navy sneakers. It’s simple style touches that make a big difference, and if you’re into that, here’s a spring and summer belt for you.
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The Watch: Form-Function-Form Horween Leather Timex Chronograph — $129

Premium Horween leather meets a tough, dependable watch.

Premium Horween leather meets a tough, dependable watch.

This superb and stylish watch-and-leather strap combo, sold via the great folks at Huckberry, definitely gets a lot of things right on the dual style-and-functionality front. For one, the watch plays off the classic Timex Weekender by adding in a few more bells and whistles (not a ton, though). For another, the combination of a black dial with a rich brown leather Horween strap is a handsome combination that stands out stylishly with a plain pocket tee and dark blue denim during the rest of the summer. That means in this outfit, it’s a downright stunning accessory.

The Sunglasses: Knockaround Fort Knox Polarized Sunglasses — $29.98

Downright cheap, simple and stylish -- not bad for under $30.

Downright cheap, simple and stylish — not bad for under $30.

If you couldn’t just by looking at ’em, the Knockaround Fort Knox Polarized Sunglasses pack a heck of a lot of style into one exceptionally well-priced package. It’s perhaps one of the accessories for which Huckberry is so well-known; they’re definitely not your average pair of shades, that’s for sure. The lenses are polarized, and the frames are injection-molded for extra durability — that’s exactly why they’re worth quite a lot more than roughly $30. While they didn’t make this site’s list of the best men’s sunglasses to buy for summer, they’re a very worthy honorable mention, and quite the pair to bring with you for the 4th of July.

Meeting such a patriotic holiday in style is a lot like dressing for any other holiday, be it St. Patrick’s Day or Christmas. That means nodding to the time of year — in this instance, mixing some red and blue — while working in both some more forward moves (like rolled chinos) and timeless classics (like a stylish leather watch). Crisp sneakers and durable shades work to finish it all off, too. Of course, this time of year is about more than what you wear — it’s also about taking time with family and friends and being thankful for this great country we live in. However you do that, I salute you and wish you the best in style.

Join the style discussion over on Twitter, or follow along via Instagram.

Buck Mason - Timeless Design. Made in America.

Online Shopping Picks: The Best Men’s No-Show Socks For Summer

Editor’s note: For shopping picks that’ll sort out the rest of your summer wardrobe, head this way.

Crisp white sneakers, and not a sock in site. More great no-show sock options are below. White Wilson Sneakers by GREATS Brand.

Crisp white sneakers, and not a sock in site. More great no-show sock options are below. White Wilson Sneakers by GREATS Brand.

While there are certain style essentials that are a given for the warmer months — your classic sneakers, your slim polo, your stylish shorts — there are others that are trickier to sort out. For every piece that’s easy to place, there are those select few that can actually make or break an outfit in terms of fit and comfort. Yes, it’s the unseen details that come up so often that we’re talking about today — and there’s a good chance you’ve got a pair on your feet right now. Well, regular socks, that is. When you’re throwing on everything from leather loafers to crisp boat shoes (as featured here) to low-cut white sneakers, a good pair of socks are an absolute must — no bones about it. And ones that keep your look sleek and well-composed are just as much of an essential. We’re talking the crucial no-show sock, meant to sit below the top of low-cut shoes, adding an extra layer of comfort, support and protection for your shoes (against odor, dirt, you name it). So the picks below are, far and away, the best no-show socks money can buy — according to this menswear writer. Get in on the debate at The Style Guide Facebook page or hit me up on Twitter with any additions to this list.

#1. Pair of Thieves Cool Hand Luke No-Show Socks — $10

A bit of pattern when you slip your sneakers off, and comfort plus performance when you slip them back on.

A bit of pattern when you slip your sneakers off, and comfort plus performance when you slip them back on.

Unlike super-premium brands that upsell their socks, you’ll find no such funny business here. In fact, the team at Pair of Thieves has nailed the difficult balance of delivering affordable, approachable and high-performing socks. The Cool Hand Luke fits and sits low on your ankle, and it’s moisture-wicking and breathable. Plus, there’s performance fabric incorporated into the socks, something that standard cotton no-show socks just don’t have (although there are a few of those on this list). In short, buy them for the performance, keep them for their durability and buy a heck of a lot more pairs.

#2. Mack Weldon No-show Socks — $16.50 (Two-pack)

Mack Weldon gives you two pairs for the price of one (compared to some brands), complete with a solid fit and versatile colors.

Mack Weldon gives you two pairs for the price of one (compared to some brands), complete with a solid fit and versatile colors.

Mack Weldon knows what it’s doing as a brand when it comes to reliable basics that emphasize performance and fit; its No-show socks again hit smack dab in the middle of that delicate intersection. They’re not too tech-y, they’re not too fragile — they’re comfortable, well-fitting and available for a nice price for a two-pack. From personal experience, they sit solidly on your foot and ankle, and they won’t go sliding around when you slip on sneakers or loafers. Plus, the colors and design are such that they won’t look out of place if you need to slip off your kicks.
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#3. American Trench Summer Footies — $13.50

A quality pair of no-show socks that's made in America and crafted to last all summer.

A quality pair of no-show socks that’s made in America and crafted to last all summer.

American Trench definitely does more than just reliable cotton striped socks fit for fall, winter and spring. Its Summer Footies use recycled cotton yarn woven in a random plait technique, creating by far the most refined and visually interesting end result of any pair of socks on this list. They’ll run you $13.50 (or $30 for a three-pack), but the price is absolutely worth it — as with the rest of the brand’s versatile, well-crafted socks. Plus, the neat colors (including Lawn and Summer Orange) are fun to say and fun to wear — right?

#4. J. Crew No-show Socks in Grey — $16.50 (Two-pack)

Nothing fancy about these no-show socks, but nothing fancy's needed this time around.

Nothing fancy about these no-show socks, but nothing fancy’s needed this time around.

As is the case with dozens upon dozens of other #menswear style essentials, J. Crew offers a reliable, easy-wearing and price-effective option with its version of the no-show sock. Available in a two-pack for the same price as the more colorful (and better-looking) Mack Weldon socks offered above, J. Crew nonetheless keeps things straightforward with these socks, which are available in three basic colors. The cotton-nylon blend should pack in a bit of stretch, and the cut should also ensure no bit of sock peeks above your new summer boat shoes.

#5. Calvin Klein 3-pack Colorblock No-show Liner Socks — $20

Subtle colorblocking and a fair price would make these a solid budget pick-up.

Subtle colorblocking and a fair price would make these a solid budget pick-up.

If you’re looking to (quite literally) save a couple bucks, best grab a pair of these Calvin Klein no-show socks. They’re available in the color block options seen above in a handy three-pack, too. They’re certainly not as high-quality as other options on this list (particularly the Pair of Thieves or Mack Weldon versions), but they’ll work suitably well if you’re on a style budget — and who isn’t, these days? Plus, the color-blocked aspect is visually interesting, and the style & performance should be on-point.

Florsheim

Sure, it’s fairly easy to walk into any old store and grab no-show socks out of the bargain bin, but if you want quality style that’ll last and set you up to walk in comfort, any of the above picks should have you sorted out. Keep in mind that Old Navy also offers up a pack of no-show socks for just under $6 — talk about a standout deal. And more technically focused retailers like SmartWool make socks that lean distinctly performance-heavy in looks and functionality (think trail running as opposed to city walking), but they still can get the job done in a pinch.  Want to see all the ways in which no-show socks can be worn with, say, a great pair of leather loafers? Check out my most recent Effortless Gent “Five Ways to Wear One” post for all the styling tips you could ever need. And get a few pairs in your cart before they’re gone!

Until next time,

-Beau
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Style Suggestion: What to Wear on Memorial Day

Editor’s note: To see another Style Suggestion for Memorial Day, click here.

Just as it’s, somewhat incredulously, nearly time to prep for dressing for a summer wedding so too, is it time to get ready for Memorial Day.  There’s often a lot on the table — maybe you’ve got to sort out what to wear when traveling, and more crucially, what accessories to pack for a stylish trip. Hopefully, you’ll be somewhere relaxing, enjoyable and near the water.  If that’s the case, we’ll be tackling the standard weekend-casual get-up below, and yet tweaking it for the #menswear fan more interested in looking good than taking it easy when it comes to style. In fact, it’s situations like these where you can set yourself apart (in a good way) by upping the ante just a bit. As it were, small style upgrades can even trickle down to your Memorial Day accessories (we’re talking things like leather coasters and a brass bottle opener from Owen & Fred, for example). But that’s another matter. The ensemble below is what you should keep in mind for a barbeque, an afternoon of patio beers, or just a relaxing day with family and friends around town — it’s got pieces you’ll recognize (the polo among them), but they’re all updated. Curious what I’ll be wearing for Memorial Day? Follow me on Instagram (no pressure, though!). And if you have other gear you’d like to see featured, let me know on The Style Guide’s Facebook page.

The Polo: SWIMS Getaria Polo in White — $90

Slim, stylish and made from comfortable, moisture-wicking fabric.

Slim, stylish and made from comfortable, moisture-wicking fabric.

Is that pricey for a polo? Heck yes, it is. But the SWIMS Getaria Polo is not your standard baggy golf polo, nor is it your spongy, heavy pique polo of days past. This right here is a crisp, slim-fitting, comfortable polo that looks sharp and wicks sweat thanks to the PrimaLoft fabric. Yet, it doesn’t look at all like a sport polo — for one, there’s no pesky logo. And for another, the fit is actually trim, with sleeves that hit about mid-bicep. If it does get chilly, you could always grab a stylish spring jacket, and if a less expensive polo is more your thing, you could always grab one from this site’s guide to the best spring polos.

The Hybrid Short: SWIMS Paloma Hybrid Chino Short — $130

The functionality of a swim trunk, and the look of a tailored short.

The functionality of a swim trunk, and the look of a tailored short.

Now, some slim chino shorts would work well here, too. And yes, we’re going with another pick from the same brand … why? Well, that’s easy. Memorial Day travel is sometimes all about packing light. And if you’re only taking a day trip or an overnight, you want to maximize space — and the Paloma Hybrid Chino is a ridiculously effective way to do that. They perform like a swim short and they’ve got an inner mesh lining, yet they’ve also got the peached surface of a chino short. And the front tab closure and tailored fit mean they wear like a regular pair of shorts. Take these into the water and onto the dockside patio with reckless abandon (or something like that). Oh, and if you need a belt when you hop out of the water, grab one with a nautical influence.

The Shoes: Jack Erwin Cooper Boat Shoes — $125

A decidedly stylish boat shoe that's not what your father wore to the beach.

A decidedly stylish boat shoe that’s not what your father wore to the beach.

Just when you thought you’d sworn off boat shoes for good, the style comes roaring back — in a very, very good way. Jack Erwin’s new boat shoes are crisp and uniquely stylish, built on a loafer last for an elongated profile that’s far different from more classic styles. They’re available in Navy Leather, Slate Nubuck and the Caramel Nubuck you see here, and they feature a white rubber outsole for sleek styling (again, different than other boat shoes). The great thing is, these would also work just as well with navy chinos and a white Oxford at the office, and in this case, they’ll set you apart from other flip-flop wearing fellas.

The Socks: Pair of Thieves Cool Hand Luke No-Show Socks — $10

Socks that don't slide up -- critical given the type of footwear you'll be rocking.

Socks that don’t slide up — critical given the type of footwear you’ll be rocking.

So, while you very well might be in and out of the water this Memorial Day weekend, there’ll come a time when you need to slip on stylish shoes (like the Jack Erwin boat shoes above). And in keeping with those sleek shorts and sharp polo, you’re going to want a pair of socks that blends in seamlessly. Pair of Thieves uses designs that don’t look half-bad when worn on their own, and lucky for you and me both, this pair of socks slides nicely into shoes that are fit for the water or the walkway. Plus, the price is very agreeable. So agreeable, you just might be able to use the money you save for another beer.

The Watch: Timex Waterbury Dive Watch — $110

Nothing too fancy or expensive, yet every bit as solid.

Nothing too fancy or expensive, yet every bit as solid.

It’s not often you’ll find a pair of swim shorts that cost more than a watch, but that’s the case here — yet, you still get quality and durability for which Timex is known. This stainless steel Waterbury is part of the heritage line introduced by the brand to commemorate 160 years in business (yes, 160), and it should reliably do the job as far as dive watches go (although in that sense, it’s only water-resistant to 50 meters). Even still, it’s tough to beat the combo of price, looks and simple style that should fit right in alongside a refined-yet-casual ensemble.

The Hat: Bridge & Burn “B” Flat Wool Cap — $48

No need to go with a Nike cap here, ehh?

No need to go with a Nike cap here, ehh?

Although it’d be easy to throw on a simple athletic logo cap, we’re going for something a bit more stylish today. Bridge & Burn produces essentials that are timeless yet incorporate a rugged, somewhat outdoors-y flair. That’s the case with this neat wool cap, which features classic six-panel design and a simple, smart logo (and if your name happens to start with the letter B…). Like worsted wool found in four-season suits, the wool in this hat should be breathable and crucially, offer protection from the sun.

The Sunglasses: J. Crew The Jack Sunglasses in Silver Navy — $98

A new (yet already-classic) option from a brand that nails all kinds of style staples.

A new (yet already-classic) option from a brand that nails all kinds of style staples.

Did you think we forgot these guys? Not quite. If the solid good looks and very agreeable price are any indication, you’ll likely be seeing a lot of J. Crew’s new sunglasses around The Style Guide in the coming weeks and months (including in this site’s recent summer sunglasses guide). The Jack from J. Crew is simple, straightforward and classic in nature, with some brighter blue lenses to amp things up a bit. The frame shape should definitely work with lots of face types, and the color goes nicely with grey chino shorts, white polo and caramel nubuck boat shoes. Not a bad way to finish things off, ehh?

The above outfit certainly doesn’t incorporate a lot of bold prints, crazy styles or even unexpected swerves — yet it’s the colors and textures, from the unexpected boat shoes to the hybrid shorts and deceptively performance-ready polo, that make all the difference. Essentials like a stainless steel watch and aviator sunglasses are going to effectively get the job done no matter where you go. And if you pair these pieces with other must-haves — say, a cool denim tote bag or a nice leather lanyard — you’re going to be set in matters of style for this trip and several to come.

What do you think of the above get-up? What will you be rocking this Memorial Day?

Florsheim

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#OOTD: Styling an Essential Chambray Shirt

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.

The best part about spring style — other than the fact that it’s, well, finally warm out — is the way in which you can take pieces you’d wear the rest of the year and still combine them into a weather-friendly outfit (that is, not too hot and not too cold). In this instance, we’re talking casual-yet-crisp basics like the essential chambray shirt and an always-classic pair of slim khaki chinos, brought together in this instance by a pair of sharp-as-heck suede wingtips. Yes, this outfit has something for everyone — whether you’re on the hunt for a pair of stylish men’s dress shoes like the below, or simply searching for another way to wear gear you’ve already got, it’s about time you brought it all together. That’s what we’ll focus on below — for other #menswear-centric outfit inspirations, check out what we’ve got going on over at Pinterest or via The Style Guide on Facebook; I’m always up for more #OOTD suggestions, too. So, let’s roll up those (chambray) shirt sleeves and get to work!
Florsheim

A few items -- like a four-season chambray shirt and classic (yet slim) chinos -- are pulled together by crisp wingtips and a great jacket.

A few items — like a four-season chambray shirt and classic (yet slim) chinos — are pulled together by crisp wingtips and a great jacket.

The Shirt: JackThreads Chambray Shirt, $39 — As essential and easy of a pick to make as it gets, JackThreads really knows what’s up when it comes to well-done basics that are crazy-affordable. Start with your favorite chambray shirt, and go from there.

The Jacket: Grayers Exmouth Nylon Blazer, $135 — Part blazer, part jacket and very spring-ready, this piece doubles as a rain coat should you need to bike, walk or run to work through a downpour (or if, y’know, you just fancy picking up a hybrid piece of outerwear).

The Chinos: Buck Mason Sand Chinos, $135 — An investment-worthy pair of chinos from a brand that excels at crafting stellar pieces in the U.S.A., you should be able to wear these for years on end.

The Shoes: M.Gemi Forte Wingtips in Dune, $248 — An average pair of wingtips, these are not. Superbly crafted, rich in color and somehow still featuring a sporty white sole, say hello to your favorite pair of summer dress shoes.

The Socks: Pair of Thieves Catch-22 No-Show Socks, $10 — Reliable no-show socks that don’t stick out from underneath those rolled chinos are going to push this outfit into warm-weather territory.

The Watch: Invicta 8926 Pro Diver, $68.75 — This watch has long been a Style Guide favorite, and with plenty good reason: Standout looks, a tremendous price and great durability. It’s the right mix of rugged and casual here.

The Belt: J. Crew Braided Cotton Belt, $29.50 — Swap out a brown leather dress belt for something lighter in color and made with spring in mind.

The Bag: Wood & Faulk Field Bag, $150 — For an outfit that’s made with a commute in mind, grab a bag that’s commute-friendly — just big enough to handle your everyday carry should you need to hop on that bike (or on the train).

Oftentimes, putting together an outfit to meet changing weather or changing plans is just about recognizing that certain pieces can be customized for year-round wear when updated the right way — so, taking those chinos and showing off some ankle, or adapting your traditional navy blue blazer to one that can handle spring breezes. Throw in some sporty wingtips, and you’ve got a look that should be comfortable and eye-catching, in the best possible way. ‘Til next time!

-Beau

Where might you rock this outfit? Any pieces that you would add or subtract?

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