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

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

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

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

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

Cheers,

-Beau

Style Suggestion: Here’s What to Wear to Your Next Football Tailgate

Can you feel it in the air? The start of fall — soon enough, anyways — always brings with it excitement anticipation for your Style Guide author. Even as I walk through Brooklyn past changing leaves this time of year, I’m reminded of my home — the beautiful campus of Michigan State University and of course … football season. I night be far away from East Lansing now, but it’s still on my mind — and lucky for you and me, this uniquely all-American pastime is a great chance to break out classic menswear.  Today, we’re going to answer a burning question for all of us #menswear fans — what the heck do I wear to this tailgate? Whether you’re a pro football fan or a college diehard, today’s football tailgate style suggestion has a bit of something for everyone.

We’re talking rugged menswear that’s stylish, durable, weather-ready and absolutely geared toward fitting in at a sporting event. From a stylish hooded sweatshirt to a pair of perhaps the best leather sneakers for men, it’s covered below. The even better part? This fall men’s style suggestion gives you some leeway to add in team colors as you see fit — as long as you’re rooting for the green and white and not those pesky Wolverines in Ann Arbor, we should be all set. What do you think of this fall style suggestion? Let me know in the comments below, and follow me on Instagram for seasonal style tips galore.

The Hooded Sweatshirt: Flint and Tinder 10-Year Hoodie in Gray — $89

A thoughtfully designed, durably made hooded sweatshirt for fall mornings before kickoff.

There’s such a thing as a good-looking hooded sweatshirt out there, trust me. Of course, the 10-Year Hoodie is made with durable style in mind by the fine folks at Flint and Tinder — and that means it’s a wise move to layer up with this collegiate-inspired staple at your next tailgate. Unlike other hooded sweatshirts that potentially feature an oversized fit, the Flint and Tinder 10-Year Hoodie boasts tailored raglan construction, a neutral color and cozy comfort, ideal for a chilly fall morning or afternoon.

The T-shirt: Tailgate Clothing Men’s Team T-shirt — $32

A vintage-inspired team tee pairs well with a stylish hooded sweatshirt — ya dig?

Here’s the good news, folks — this part of the ensemble is really up to you. Tailgate Clothing, founded back in Iowa by famed American menswear designer Todd Snyder before he launched his own line, makes stylish men’s T-shirts emblazoned with graphics of dozens of schools — they fit well, feel great and look even better. This is certainly a stylish graphic tee that’s an upgrade over an athletic jersey. If it gets chilly, you could always layer this tee over a slim striped henley.

The Denim: Flint and Tinder All-American Washed Jeans in Slim or Straight Tapered — $98

Rugged fall style

Pleasingly faded denim for a casual fall football tailgate.

As American as football itself, what better way to nod to rugged fall style than with a classic pair of American-made denim? Because we’re going for casual style here, a pair of expertly faded denim works quite well — leave the inky blue dark denim at home this time around. Plus, the two fit options on these All-American Washed Jeans allow you to customize your look accordingly. Who’s ready for some football now?

The Sneakers: Todd Snyder x P.F. Flyers Rambler Hi Leather Sneakers — $160

Richly crafted leather sneakers, fit for a tailgate and the bar afterwards.

In sticking with today’s collegiate — or at least, throwback — theme, let’s throw on some stylish leather sneakers — shall we? The handsome Todd Snyder x P.F. Flyers Rambler Hi was a featured entry in this site’s Style Pick of the Week series back in the summer, and these classic leather high-tops will also fit right in at a fall tailgate. That’s because of the rich brown leather and sturdy construction on the Rambler Hi — it’s nearly strong enough to rival your favorite leather boots.

The Belt: Sturdy Brothers Everyday Belt in Chestnut — $80

Sturdy Brothers

A tough belt made for chilly fall days and long hours spent tailgating.

If you were looking for an excuse to upgrade your everyday belt — pun intended — then the Sturdy Brothers Everyday Belt is giving you the chance to do just that … and in time for your next tailgate, too. With tough construction, handsome looks and hardware that can go the distance, this Sturdy Brothers belt is a winner in my book — leave no stone unturned when looking for subtly stylish ways to stand out as you, well, stand around the grill.

The Watch: Timex Waterbury Watch — $95

Tough design, standout looks and classic style — that’s Timex for ya.

If there’s one thing you can be sure of with this rugged, casual #menswear ensemble, it’s that a classic timepiece is absolutely needed. Yes, that’s right — even at a football tailgate, a watch like the Timex Waterbury is going to stand out for its subtle style, sturdy construction and timeless appeal. In short, you’ll stay on time to get from your tailgate to your seats in quick order with the stylish Timex Waterbury Watch — at least, this guy thinks so.
The Socks: Necessary Anywhere Three Sock in Black — $18

Simple socks that blend in with a laidback, football-ready ensemble.

Just as with your rugged leather watch, don’t skimp when it comes to accessories — particularly stylish men’s socks. The Necessary Anywhere  Three Socks are remarkably well-made for a pair of socks, featuring double-needle Jacquard knit construction and the type of simple style that works well with classic leather sneakers at a tailgate.

The Ballcap: Huckberry Explorer’s Cap — $39.98

A vintage ballcap for clean, simple style.

Before you head out the door, six-pack in hand, don’t forget a trusty ballcap — maybe a vintage-inspired ballcap, that is to say? With its classic design and crisp color, the Huckberry Explorer’s Cap in Black is yet another accessory that eschews the traditional logo-heavy approach. Oh, and it’s OK to mix the black of the Explorer’s Cap with the brown leather of your Todd Snyder x P.F. Flyers sneakers — it’s a casual affair, after all. You can wear the Explorer’s Cap no matter what team you rep.

The Essential: Orange Vessel Co. Stoneware Growler — $69.98

Don’t forget this durable, tough growler for your next tailgate — seriously.

What’s one more tailgate essential to grab before you head out the door? A durable growler, of course. Bring it filled with your host’s favorite brew or bring a little bit more for yourself — the functional, simple Orange Vessel Co. Stoneware Growler is practically a fall tailgate must-have. Guinness, anyone?
The Bottle Opener: Line of Trade Machined Steel Bottle Opener — $23.20
Line of Trade

A nice-to-have bottle opener can help out any tailgater in need — ehh?

Add one last small — yet equally important — item to your essential tailgating gear.  For all the folks out there who pass on beer out of your Orange Vessel Co. Stoneware Growler, you’ll be at the ready with a handy bottle opener from Line of Trade, ya dig? The Line of Trade Machined Steel Bottle Opener is suitably rugged and tailgate-ready. Bottoms up!

Now, who’s ready to get out there, crack open a cold one and enjoy a fall tailgate? I know I am — and hopefully, I’ll be able to get back to Michigan State to experience a perfect fall Saturday once more. For your own tailgate, I’d urge you to stock up on small but nice-to-have fall essentials, like a must-have growler and a durable bottle opener, and then focus on expert casual style in turn. That means a surprisingly stylish hooded sweatshirt from Flint and Tinder is in play, as is a uniquely vintage-inspired team T-shirt and of course, classic, American-made denim. Complement those easygoing pieces with rugged leather sneakers and a tough leather watch from Timex for tailgate style that’s eye-catching and yet seasonally appropriate. Finish it off with something like the Huckberry Explorer’s Cap, and I’d say your fall tailgate style is all set. What do ya think? Let me know in the comments below — and as always, catch me on Twitter!

Thanks for reading!

-Beau

#OOTD: How to Wear a Rugged Overshirt This Fall

This week’s #OOTD fun on The Style Guide continues in fine fashion — or should I say, fall fashion? That’s right — we’re truly starting to get into rugged fall style on the blog, from the menswear to wear on a fall trip to today’s focus: How to wear a rugged overshirt this season.  The overshirt — particular a stylish Taylor Stitch overshirt as featured today — is as versatile a #menswear layering weapon as you’ve got in your fall style arsenal. Namely, it can function as both a shirt … and a jacket. For those days and nights when it’s not cold enough for a heavier top layer, an overshirt can pull double duty. Feel free to layer it over a slim striped henley or toss it on over another shirt — say, an American-made Oxford. Made with the right fabric (like the Japanese selvedge cotton found on the Taylor Stitch Maritime Shirt Jacket seen here), it’s going to provide warmth from the chill and earn you major style points at the same time. You’ll notice some other fall style touches, including stylish (yet tough!) Danner hiking boots and a classic field watch. This look is casual enough to fit in at an outdoor concert, it’s durable and rugged enough to wear to a fall tailgate … basically, a rugged overshirt is your ticket to versatile, casual style this season. Want more style tips? Follow me on Instagram. And let me know what you think of the below #OOTD in the comments below!

Rugged fall style

Classically rugged fall style — essential for a tailgate, a bonfire or a day trip. Gotta love the rugged Taylor Stitch Maritime Shirt Jacket as seen here.

The Overshirt: Taylor Stitch Maritime Shirt Jacket in Sea Washed Indigo, $118  (When Signing Up for Bespoke Post— Ahh yes, the well-made, well-crafted and exceptionally stylish rugged overshirt we discussed earlier.  This Taylor Stitch Maritime Shirt Jacket features selvedge detailing and a modern fit.

The Henley: Taylor Stitch Mercerized Merino Henley, $125 — What are you layering under your Taylor Stitch overshirt? A rugged Taylor Stitch Mercerized Merino Henley, of course. The stripes add visual interest, and the merino wool adds breathability and classic fall style.

The Denim: DSTLD Slim Jeans in Charcoal Overdye, $85 — You could certainly throw on a pair of classic dark denim for monochromatic style, but these slim charcoal jeans from direct-to-consumer Los Angeles brand DSTLD offer a neat contrast in terms of color and texture.

The Boots:  Danner Vertigo 917 Boots, $220 — Now, you could easily swap in a pair of stylish leather sneakers here, yet these hybrid hiking boots from Danner convey both rugged style and functionality — a wise bet if you end up on your feet for longer than expected (perhaps an Octoberfest bar crawl, ehh?).

The Belt: Sturdy Brothers Everyday Belt in Chestnut, $80 — We always say that the little details make the difference here at The Style Guide, and this tough leather belt from Sturdy Brothers gets those details right.

The Socks: Arvin Goods Crew Socks (Three-pack) — $24 — If you read this blog regularly, you recognize the name Arvin Goods — the brand makes functional, understated socks at a great price. These affordable crew socks should team nicely with your Danner hiking boots.
The Watch: Momentum Watches Flatline 42 Fabric Watch, $164.98 — When your outfit is filled with adventure-ready pieces, it makes sense to grab a classic field watch. The Flatine 42 Fabric Watch from Momentum Watches gives you the durability and style you need.
The Fall Essential: Knight Co. Complete Moisturizer, $24 — Don’t overlook the importance of keeping your grooming game tuned up through the fall months — especially as colder weather descends. The Knight Co. Complete Moisturizer should prove both premium and quite helpful with that goal.

As October approaches and crisp weather rolls into town, I’d say you surely need a rugged layering piece with plenty of potential — the Taylor Stitch Maritime Shirt Jacket is going to be your ticket to essential fall style. From craft beer festivals to weekend coffee trips and perhaps a stylish fall weekend trip, there’s little that the Taylor Stitch Maritime Shirt Jacket can’t do. Particularly when layered up with a rugged striped henley — also from Taylor Stitch — you’re going to be set for fall weekends aplenty. Charcoal denim from DSTLD is a nice way to mix things up visually, while the Danner Vertigo 917 Boots offer both comfort and durability for all-day style. And with its subtly fashionable design and tough construction, the Flatine 42 Fabric Watch is the ideal casual men’s watch to offset this ensemble. Of course, no outfit is complete without taking care of your men’s grooming essentials — who else needs that Knight Co. moisturizer in their medicine cabinet? At any rate, I hope this #OOTD gets you thinking when it comes to rugged fall style. Who’s ready for the season? I sure am!

Thanks for reading and cheers,

-Beau

A

See Now, Buy Now: Step into Fall with These Rugged Leather Boots

Hudson Shoes

Striking leather boots, made with a natural patina and featuring durable construction.

When it comes to rugged fall style, you’re going to need some stylish leather boots — that’s just a stone-cold fact. And that’s where today’s See Now, Buy Now entry comes into play. Yes indeed, the Hudson Shoes Lennon Boots are an accessible, stylish and well-made pair of classic leather boots for the season ahead — possibly your new favorite leather boots? We’ll let you be the judge of that, though.  Perhaps you’re already familiar with Hudson Shoes; the brand’s Lewiston Chukka is a recent favorite of your Style Guide author in particular. Versatility in your footwear rotation is key this season, though — that’s what makes the Lennon Boots an essential pick-up as the leaves turn and the air turns crisp. Tough lace-up boots, richly crafted and featuring durable construction, work in plenty of seasonal style scenarios, from a football tailgate to a farmer’s market trip or an evening at your favorite brewpub. And with their well-worn patina and small design touches like premium waxed laces, the Hudson Shoes Lennon Boots feature that tough-to-find blend of rugged good looks and versatile style — that’s surely enough to put ’em contention on any list of the best leather boots, right? Right.

That’s at least why I think you should break out the Lennon Boots with everything from slim dark blue denim and a rugged henley to an indigo trucker jacket and faded black denim. Both of those combos will work for a rock concert, a casual weekend stroll or an upstate road trip — can’t beat that, right? Now, about the price: The Hudson Shoes Lennon Boots will set you back about $270 if you buy via Bespoke Post (which you certainly should!). That makes them a bit of an investment, but from the Portuguese-made construction to the stylish design and excellent quality, the Hudson Shoes Lennon Boots are going to become a fall and winter go-to. So, as we say here at The Style Guide … see now, buy now … ehh?

Will the Hudson Shoes Lennon Boots be joining your fall #menswear rotation? Let me know in the comments or on Twitter!

The Friday Read: Fall Style Wish List, Young the Giant and J. Crew

Alright, folks — welcome back to the Friday Read and the capper on another week here at The Style Guide. From our Fall Style Wish List to a look at the best denim jacket to wear for the season — plus, a look at a stylish hooded sweatshirt for fall — it certainly was a busy, jam-packed week. And these busy #menswear times are set to continue this weekend, as it were; I’m on the road to Nashville to take in a full weekend in and around a great Southern city. You can expect a full recap coming Monday — from checking out spots like Pinewood Social to seeing what should be a great rock show by Young the Giant and Cold War Kids, I’m absolutely thrilled to take in the city. Any tips on things to do or places to go in Nashville? Feel free to hit me up on Twitter! And in the meantime, there’s more music on the way — my favorite band, indie rock heroes The National, dropped an incredible new record today in “Sleep Well Beast.” I won’t spoil it if you haven’t had the chance to listen, but it’s …. absolutely expectional. And with that, I have a rock show to prepare for! Stick around for the below reads today — have a great one, and cheers!

  • And last but not least, because we’re keeping this one brief today — have you seen the latest edition of The List by your Style Guide author? In short, it covers all the rugged gear to shop for fall — I guarantee you that you’ll enjoy it.

OK, folks — I’m signing off early today! Enjoy the weekend and we’ll talk to you soon.

-Beau

Fall 2017 Men’s Style Wish List

Today marks a post that I always look forward to here at The Style Guide — a look toward a new season, the start of the best time in menswear …. our annual Fall Style Wish List. If you can believe it, this is a tradition that dates all the way back to 2014 … pretty wild, ehh?  And the good news is, we’re back this year with a list of men’s style essentials that’s even bigger and better than ever. Fall ties together so many things that make #menswear great, from the opportunity to pile on added layers to the chance to step out in rugged gear at nearly all times. So, stylish wingtip boots, a rugged striped henley and dark blue denim all join our wardrobe rotations yet again.  Trust me, this is the gear to buy for the  season.  And plenty of brands are harkening back toward classic styles while updating them with modern fits and fabrics. That means we’ve got plenty of rugged style essentials to cover in our Fall 2017 Style Wish List. Without further ado … stow your beach gear, put away those flip-flops and load up on the best menswear for the fall season. We’re ranking these picks in no particular order, so you can chime in with your favorites on Twitter or follow along as I style some of my top seasonal picks on Instagram.  We’ll see you out there!

Taylor Stitch Mercerized Merino Henley — $98 (When Signing Up for Bespoke Post)
Taylor Stitch

The rugged fall layer your closet needs now — courtesy of Taylor Stitch, naturally.

If you follow along with our Style Pick of the Week series, you recognize this stylish, well-crafted Taylor Stitch Mercerized Merino Henley. Made from premium fabric that’s at once hearty and breathable, this slim striped henley could be one of the more versatile pieces you pick up this fall. It layers with ease under a chambray shirt, it works quite well underneath a black moto jacket and it looks casual and rugged all on its own. Taylor Stitch does it again.

Mark Albert Classic Chelsea Boot — $225
Mark Albert Chelsea boots

Supremely well-crafted and more than ready for fall.

Stylish leather Chelsea boots have turned into a must-have every season of the wear, darn near. But there’s something about the Mark Albert Classic Chelsea Boot that makes it seem particularly ready for fall. From the rugged, rich brown leather to the tough construction and the ability to pair up with rugged seasonal staples with ease, I’d say these Mark Albert Chelsea boots are a tremendous bet on the footwear front.

Taylor Stitch Maritime Shirt Jacket — $148
Taylor Stitch

A stunning shirt jacket from Taylor Stitch that’s going to look the part when it comes to fall excursions.

Let’s add another item from Taylor Stitch to this fall style wish list, ehh?  When it comes to rugged fall layering, you need more than just a striped henley — you need something that’s well-crafted, versatile and eye-catching … in the best way possible. That’s where the Maritime Shirt Jacket comes into play — it’s going to look right at home with slim dark denim and your favorite pair of brown leather boots.

 

Roark Revival HWY 41 Denim Jacket — $79.98
Roark Reviva

A jacket that exudes timeless style and more than a bit of rock n’roll cool.

Want a stylish denim jacket that’s anything but ordinary? Then you’re going to want the Roark Revival HWY 41 Denim Jacket, a silhouette that’s at once edgy and yet just a bit classic. It’s the kind of jacket that could easily be worn cruising down the highway on a motorcycle — right? And yet, even if you don’t own a chopper …. there’s something cool and fall-ready about this rugged denim jacket.

Taylor Stitch Slim Jean in Cone Mills Standard — $69 (When Signing Up for Bespoke Post)
Taylor Stitch denim

The ideal way to complement the rest of your Taylor Stitch gear — agreed?

OK, so we’re not quite done with Taylor Stitch menswear in this list yet.  If you’ve already stocked up with a slim striped henley and a rugged shirt jacket, what better way to finish off your ensemble than with a pair of classic dark blue denim? Did I mention they’re made in America and available for under $7o — yes, $70 — when you sign up for Bespoke Post? There you go.
Huckberry x Lum-Tec GMT Watch — $498
Huckberry x Lum-Tec

Just the sturdy, durable timepiece you need on your wrist this fall.

When I think fall style, I certainly think of rugged, tough menswear staples — and your watch shouldn’t be an exception to that trend. The Huckberry x Lum-Tec GMT Watch is a beastly timepiece that doesn’t mess around — it’s a durable watch stands up visually (and physically) to other hearty menswear pieces. I’m thinking the Huckberry x Lum-Tec GMT would pair well with the legendary Taylor Stitch Rover Jacket and perhaps those slim Cone Mills denim jeans as seen above.

 Original Penguin Pigment Overprint Shirt — $89

Original Penguin

A uniquely colored, richly textured shirt for fall layering.

Fall calls for darker, richer colors, just as it calls for heartier and more rugged textures. This Original Penguin overprint shirt brings in a little bit of both. The pigmented denim-type texture and rich color (Pomegranate, to be specific) give it some weight and visual interest — it’s the perfect pairing with grey selvedge denim and sharp black Chelsea boots.

Flint and Tinder 10-Year Pullover — $89

A decidedly stylish hooded sweatshirt upgrade.

Plenty of gear from Flint and Tinder regularly makes the pages of this site — and for good reason. The brand crafts its staple pieces — like the Flint and Tinder 10-Year Collection of stylish hoodies — in America, and with plenty of attention to detail.  The 10-Year Pullover in particular would be a fine addition to any lineup of men’s style staples; it’s the sort of sweatshirt that you can even wear over a classic Oxford shirt this fall without missing a beat.

Bradley Mountain Rambler Duffle in Brush Brown — $279

A rough-and-tumble bag that’s ready for any fall adventure you can dream up.

Our fall style wish list is about more than clothes, mark my words. Case in point: The stylish weekender bag you need to bring with you on fall adventures aplenty. The Rambler Duffle is aptly named and aptly constructed; it’s the perfect size for a weekend away, with enough room for you to pack your other favorites from this list (the Taylor Stitch Maritime Shirt Jacket, anyone?).
 Hudson Shoes Corelli Suede Dip Dye Boots — $198 (When Signing up for Bespoke Post)

Textured, rugged suede chukka boots fit right in with the cooler climes of fall.

Did we save the best for last? Well, I personally love the Taylor Stitch Maritime Shirt Jacket, so I can’t be sure. But I’m certainly sure of the fact that the Corelli Suede Dip Dye Boots are a heck of a fall style pick-up thanks to the seasonally ready color and texture. Plus, the slim-yet-substantial profile if these Hudson Shoes boots teams well with slim Cone Mills denim or dark black denim in equal measure — just add that Taylor Stitch merino henley we discussed earlier, and you’re good to go.

Alright, Style Guide readers — did you stick with us until the end? Which of the above picks did you most gravitate toward? I certainly can’t get enough of rugged suede chukkas like the Hudson Shoes Corelli Suede Dip Dye Boots, and it’s really tough to top something as essential as the Taylor Stitch Maritime Shirt Jacket … but that’s just one man’s opinion! What do you think? Weigh in via the comments below or at the Style Guide’s Facebook page!

Thanks for reading!

-Beau

#OOTD: Wear This Black Denim Jacket for Early Fall

How are you prepping for fall? And what are we excited about when it comes to #menswear? For your Style Guide author, I’m personally excited about a return to rugged layering in particular — including a refresher on how to wear a black denim jacket. Taking slightly unexpected, edgy pieces and mixing them together is one of the small joys of the season — take, for instance, the Roark Revival denim jacket we’re talking about in today’s #OOTD. It’s got just enough cool design touches to set it apart from your typical denim jacket, from the unique chest pocket detailing to the faded black color. And crucially, a jacket like the Roark Revival HWY 41 Jacket is going to be the perfect way to step into fall. It makes for a great layer on chilly weekend days and week nights alike, and that edgy style is going to help you go everywhere from a rock concert to a bar crawl to a weekend coffee run. When paired up with other fall style essentials — including classic suede chukka boots and a rugged striped henley — you’re going to be able to take on everything from a weekend getaway to a casual date night out seriously. So, are you ready to learn about your new favorite denim jacket? Good. Then let’s go! Follow me on Instagram for more insider style tips, plus a dose of craft beer and live music.

Rugged Fall Style

A mix of edgy pieces — like the Roark Revival denim jacket — and classic offerings, like a rugged henley.

The Jacket: Roark Revival HWY 41 Denim Jacket, $79.98 — As discussed above, the affordably priced, well-crafted and uniquely edgy Roark Revival HWY 41 Jacket is the unexpected fall layering piece you didn’t know you needed — until now.

The Henley: Taylor Stitch Mercerized Merino Henley, $98 (When Signing Up for Bespoke Post— When is it worth it to pay nearly $100 for a henley? When that rugged henley is made by Taylor Stitch.

The Pants: Original Penguin P55 Brushed Cotton 5-Pocket Pant, $89 — Want to shake things up from your typical rotation of slim blue denim  this fall? Reach for a pair of tailored cotton 5-pocket pants for a bit of high-low style.

The Boots: Hudson Shoes Corelli Suede Dip Dye Boots, $198 (When Signing Up for Bespoke Post)  — Want a pair of footwear that’s going to fit right in with the rock n’roll vibes of this ensemble? Suede chukka boots are going to be your best bet — Hudson Shoes knocked it out of the park with the Corelli Suede Dip Dye Boots.

The Socks: Arvin Goods Crew Socks (Three-pack), $30 — Sustainably made, understated socks are what Arvin Goods excels at making — these stylish crew socks fit the bill nicely.

The Belt: Sturdy Brothers Everyday Belt in Natural, $80 — Don’t forget about the small style details. Particularly when your outfit is packed with rugged basics, your belt should fall in that same category aesthetically. Sturdy Brothers gets it right with the Everyday Belt.

The Watch: Szanto Aviator Automatic Watch — $289 — Rugged good looks, tough durability and a subtly stylish design make the Szanto Aviator Automatic Watch the right timepiece to offset this outfit.

The Grooming Essential: Blind Barber 60 Proof Hair Wax, $18 — What if I told you for under $20, you could get a true men’s grooming essential to help complement this sharp look? Easy choice, right?

When the foundation of your outfit is the rugged, edgy and unique Roark Revival HWY 41 Jacket, it makes filling in the pieces around it pretty easy. And when those pieces happen to include a mix of high-low style essentials like brushed cotton pants and a rugged striped henley? Well, the only question now is where that outfit can take you.   Stylish, sharp footwear like the  Corelli Suede Dip Dye Boots are a great way to step into early fall thanks to their unique texture and versatility, while a tough timepiece like the Szanto Aviator Automatic Watch  is going to complement plenty of seasonally ready outfits. Remember to turn to durable, dependable brands like Sturdy Brothers to upgrade your accessories, and know that the little touches in terms of grooming (like using Baxter of California hair wax) are going to take your ensemble to the next level. So, what do you think of this #OOTD? Where would you wear the Roark Revival HWY 41 Jacket this fall? 

Thanks for reading, as always!

-Beau

The List: Kick off Early Fall with the Best Men’s Gear

As we’ve been saying for a while now on The Style Guide, fall will be here before you know it. It’s the best time of the year for #menswear, what with a return to texture-heavy outfits, rugged layering and old style favorites — plus the chance to hit the road for crisp fall weekend adventures galore. And we’re getting into the swing of things a few weeks before the official start of fall with today’s edition of The List. Unlike our last edition of The List, which focused on the best gear to buy to close out summer, we’re looking toward menswear essentials with a bit more grit, a bit more rugged style and a bit more fall-ready wearability. Am I the only one excited for that first crisp fall day? Maybe? Well, let’s change that as quick as we can.  Follow me on Instagram to see how I’m getting ready for fall — and know that we’re officially going to debut our Fall Style Wish List later this week.

Original Penguin P55 Bedford Cord 5-Pocket Pant — $89

Original Penguin

A slim-fitting pair of cotton trousers in a unique fall shade.

There’s no better way to ease into fall — and ease away from slim light wash denim — than with textured cotton pants in an earthy fall color.

Bespoke Post Concentrate Box — $45 (When Signing Up for Bespoke Post)

Organize your desk AND brew a great batch of cold brew, all at once.

I’m the type of guy who can enjoy excellent cold brew nearly all year long — and if that’s the case for you, the Bespoke Post Concentrate Box features essentials to make your own cold brew and organize your home office.

Danner Vertigo 917 Boots — $199.98

One part hiker, one part sneaker — and all ready for fall, any way you slice it.

Want a set of shoes that straddles the line between between purely a hiking boot or purely a sneaker? The Danner 917 Boots do both — wear ’em with dark slim jeans and a rugged fall jacket for a day trip.

Original Penguin Pigment Overprint Shirt — $89

A thoughtfully crafted shirt, perfect for fall layering.

Early fall is an ideal time to reach for pieces with a bit more texture and visual interest — this richly colored Original Penguin shirt would team nicely with the brand’s Bedford Cords as seen above.

Baxter of California Safety Razor Set — $260
Baxter of California

Make your next shave premium and refined with Baxter of California.

Are you the type of guy who appreciates the finer, perhaps more underappreciated things in life? Like shaving with an old-school razor? This handsome Baxter of California Safety Razor Set should do the job nicely.

Banana Republic Fulton Skinny Rapid Movement Chinos — $98

Make your next chinos mobile, tailored and relatively affordable. Job well-done, Banana Republic.

Tailored chinos that look as great as they feel? Available in a range of colors, including classic khaki? Banana Republic is onto something with its Rapid Movement Chinos, which I’ve had the chance to test out & enjoy lately.
Taylor Stitch California Shirt in Army Micro Cord — $125
Taylor Stitch

A cool corduroy shirt that gives off modern — not retro — vibes thanks to the tailored fit.

 Shirting from Taylor Stitch always sells quickly — and performs reliably and stylishly. This textured corduroy shirt in a neat shade of green should become a go-to fall style move.

Nisolo Diego Low Sneakers — $129.98
Nisolo footwear

A richly crafted leather sneaker that provides edge and versatility.

Early fall is as good a time as any to break out stylish leather sneakers with a bit of rugged edge — the Nisolo Diego Low should work as well with a classic striped henley as with a rugged men’s T-shirt.
Bespoke Post B6 EDC Kit — $120

The Bespoke Post E6 EDC Kit is packed full of prime fall style picks.

From a slim wallet to a set of handy notebooks to a bottle opener and a durable pen, the Bespoke Post B6 EDC Kit has it all — literally. These men’s style essentials should certainly serve you well this fall.

Solo Stove Campfire 4P+ Stove — $109.99

Solo Stove Campfire Stove

A durable, affordable and modern campfire stove to take with you on the road.

Early fall nights just can’t be topped if you’re able to get away and spend a few nights camping — and the Solo Stove Campfire 4P+ Stove is an extremely useful, easily portable option for all your fall wilderness pursuits.
Bespoke Post Savor Box — $45 (When Signing Up for Bespoke Post)
Bespoke Post Savor Box

All the essentials you need to make a mean Old Fashioned.

Another Bespoke Post box that’s darn near a fall essential. After all, who doesn’t love a well-crafted, thoughtful Old Fashioned on a brisk fall night? Yes indeed, the Bespoke Post Savor Box is going to help you make the perfect one.
Audio Pro T3 Bluetooth Speaker — $249

A great-looking speaker that provides a stylish way to play your favorite tunes.

Last but not least — you’ve got your rugged Taylor Stitch shirt and your campfire stove, but what tunes are you cranking out? The surprisingly stylish Audio Pro T3 Bluetooth Speaker can help in that regard.
OK, my friends — that’s today’s edition of The List! Who’s ready for fall? And what was your favorite pick? I’m loving the Bespoke Post Savor Box and of course, the Taylor Stitch California Shirt. Let me know via the comments below or on Twitter — thanks for reading, and happy shopping!
-Beau

Style Pick of the Week: Rancourt & Co. Carson Low Sneakers

A fall-ready sneaker that blends high-quality construction and striking looks.

If you’ve clicked through the pages of The Style Guide recently, then you surely recognize Rancourt & Co. — and particularly, perhaps you recognize the Rancourt & Co. Carson Low. It’s the perfect pair of sneakers to wear to transition into fall; I don’t know much, but I’d bet you’ll agree. First seen in our #OOTD post on how to wear an Oxford shirt this fall, these handsome, rugged sneakers nearly check all the boxes when it comes to classic fall footwear. That’s no joke. While it’s nice to step into tried-and-true staples like suede chukka boots or leather work boots when the weather gets chilly, durable leather sneakers can work just as well from early September to early November. It’s especially helpful that in the case of the Carson Low, the fine folks at Rancourt & Co. have applied the same approach that makes the brand’s other footwear so great (Exhibit A: The 4-Season Ranger Moc). The brand got into making USA-made sneakers back in 2015, and they’ve amped up their approach this time around.

That means the upper on the Rancourt & Co. Carson Low starts with exceptionally high-quality Horween leather, a claim not many pairs of sneakers can boast. The Vibram Strighton outsole is another point of durable differentiation (say that five times fast). That construction ensures grip, traction and a visually interesting contrast from the Horween leather upper on the Rancourt & Co. Carson Low. It’s that blend of quality and style that makes the Carson Low so appealing — and certainly, worthy of an investment this season.

Racnourt & Co.

Roll your jeans now with the Carson Low, and then keep these sneakers around once we get into fall.

So, with a pair of sneakers this well-made and stylish, it begs the question: How can’t the  Rancourt & Co. Carson Low work in a plethora of style situations? Classic dark denim and a slim grey crewneck sweater? Add these sneakers, plus a rugged leather watch. A slim herringbone blazer and grey corduroy trousers? The Rancourt & Co. Carson Low is a tremendous style move. A black denim jacket and grey jeans at a pub crawl? Sure thing, the Carson Low is up to the task. The rich brown leather, sturdy sole and handsome silhouette makes these sneakers timeless, versatile and durable. Finished off with leather laces, the Carson Low could just be your new favorite pair of sneakers this fall. Again, they’re an investment that’s worth it on the footwear front.

Will you be buying the Rancourt & Co. Carson Low  for the fall season? How would you style these stellar sneakers? Let me know in the comments or on Twitter

Style Pick of the Week: Halios Laguna Watch

Halios Laguna Watch

The rugged leather watch to team up with all your favorite fall style essentials.

If there’s one thing I know for certain when it comes to #menswear, it’s that a stylish watch can be the perfect finishing touch to an outfit — and there are some watches, like the Halios Laguna Watch, that stand out above the rest in that regard. Now, we just talked about a tough stainless steel dive watch in our latest See Now, Buy Now entry, but I’m here to tell you that the Halios Laguna Watch is just as worthy of a spot in your watch collection. The best watch to buy now conveys that ideal mix of rugged and yet slightly refined style, wearable with everything from a slim graphic tee to an American-made Oxford. If that’s what you’re looking for, I think you’ll be mighty pleased with today’s Style Pick of the Week.

Folks, the Laguna Watch is a timepiece that signifies more than rugged, durable style. What with its handsome combination of a black dial and a tough brown leather strap (or a stainless steel set of links), the Laguna Watch nods toward the changing of the seasons — bear with me on this one.  Early fall, which is coming soon enough, means we’re switching out lightweight, breathable menswear, like classic men’s T-shirts, for heavier, more durable pieces. So, essential menswear picks like a rugged henley and tough brown leather boots are crucial. And in that case, you need accessories that follow suit in terms of visual interest and style. It’s your lucky day, because that’s where the Halios Laguna Watch comes into play.

Laguna Watch

Another way to wear the ridiculously rugged, tough Halios Laguna Watch.

Halios has raised eyebrows — in a good way — for the manner in which the brand crafts its rugged men’s watches. The Laguna Watch is a fine example; take the scratch-and-shatter resistant sapphire glass crystal, plus the insanely tough stainless steel case (made with the same steel used in jet engine parts!).  As if that wasn’t enough, know that you’re really getting two watches for the price of one with the Halios Laguna Watch — as you can see above, you also have the option to swap in a tough stainless steel set of links, the ultimate in versatility. And the 43mm case diameter on the Halios Laguna Watch, while substantial, should be more than wearable for most guys. The Japanese-made automatic movement should prove reliable and precise, and even the carrying case for the Halios Laguna Watch is guaranteed for life. Yep — LIFE.

That’s an uncommon promise for something as seemingly small as watch storage, yet it means that the Halios Laguna Watch can stand up to any early fall adventures — and well beyond. I’d wear this stylish timepiece with plenty of other rugged menswear essentials, from a striped henley and faded American-made denim to suede boots and a rugged shawl-collar cardigan. Given that the price tag is a bit of an investment, it’s safe to say the Halios Laguna Watch deserves as much wear as you can get out of it. So, what do you say? Can a watch help you transition into fall? Let me know in the comments below — and let me know if you’ll be buying the Halios Laguna Watch in the near future!

Stay stylish and thanks for reading,

-Beau