Tag / rugged style

by Beau H.

#OOTD: Wear This Rugged Gear for Day-to-Night Style This Season

This time of year is somewhat tricky to sort out — you see, it’s not quite the end of summer, it’s not quite early fall … so, what’s a guy to do? That’s where transitional style essentials from some of your favorite brands come into play via today’s #OOTD, which is focused on the best rugged gear for guys. Make no mistake, we’re not going too over-the-top and into flannel shirt + chore pants territory yet (although we’ll get there someday, trust me!). Instead, think of this as a sort of stepping stone from late summer into early fall, with the gear picks to match (kind of like how we talked last month about how to wear your boots for summer).

This look comes through in a similar fashion: All the building blocks are there for you to wear this look up to your cabin or on a socially distanced day trip, just as easily as you can wear it to grab an on-the-go coffee before a park picnic (don’t forget your stylish face mask, folks). The pieces that make up this look are ones you really can wear just about any time, from one of the best men’s T-shirts to a stylish denim shirt and the best men’s bomber jacket (ideal for when things do start to cool off). Naturally, pieces like versatile men’s pants will also be of service. I’ll leave the rest for you to check out below. Go right on ahead and get out there, my friends.

Subtly stylish, rugged gear picks for everyday wear right now.

mandarin woods 300x250

Who’s ready to squeeze in one last summer adventure before fall kicks in? This look can work right now, and then on into the months ahead. How so? You’re starting with the ultimate base, one of the best men’s T-shirts via the Forty Five brand, a versatile layer in its own right that can be worn individually, for starters. Of course, it can also be layered up with a stylish denim shirt from our friends at Todd Snyder. Those two pieces are truly classic men’s style essentials regardless of season, but they work particularly well right now — especially when matched up with a rugged bomber jacket for those breezy, ever-so-slightly chilly nights. Of course, stylish tapered trousers add a nice dimension of versatility and go-anywhere appeal, namely given that they’re coming from the experts at Flint and Tinder.

The rugged appeal and versatile good looks simply don’t stop, though. Rugged Chelsea boots from Red Wing Heritage deliver the goods when you need adventure-ready, tough footwear that also looks stylish and timeless as heck. To provide comfort and classic appeal in equal measure, be sure to pick up at least one pair of the Mil-Spec Sport Socks from American Trench — classic socks with anti-microbial properties are a new must-have. To me, this look just keeps getting better, specifically when you throw on a rugged military watch for dependable, everyday style. And what’s one of the best ways to accent one of the best watches under $100? That’s easy — a rugged everyday bag from Filson ought to do the trick. So, are you feeling geared up and ready to take on whatever’s next? I sure hope so.

Shop Western Rise Today!

Before I let you go, here’s your reminder to sign up for my newsletter, The Style Guide In Brief, for a unique, twice-weekly dose of men’s style, indie music, craft beer and coffee-centric content. Stay safe out there, thanks for reading!

-Beau

Advertisement
by Beau H.

#OOTD: The Right Way to Wear an Overshirt on a Chilly Summer Night

Does the phrase “chilly summer night” strike fear into your heart? Does that phrase seem more apt to describe early fall than late summer? Well, that might  be the case … but think of this #OOTD as a primer to transition from one season into the next. And in this case, the rugged overshirt in question is one that’s uniquely versatile & easily wearable after the sun goes down, no need to worry about overheating. In fact, the Flint and Tinder Bedford Camp Shirt is simply darn handy to keep around no matter the off-duty occasion, from hosting a backyard BBQ to pitching a tent under the stars — would you expect anything less from Flint and Tinder, after all? And I think you’ll find the way it’s being worn is similarly versatile and unique without going over the top (it’s still a bit warm out there, after all). So, it’s not a full-on flannel shirt, but neither is the Flint and Tinder Bedford Camp Shirt a breezy linen shirt. In fact, this ensemble is really ready for going off-trail, and yet at the same time, you can wear these gear picks out for a crisp end-of-summer cocktail if need be. It’s all just right when it comes to layering up. How would you wear the Flint and Tinder Bedford Camp Shirt? Check out the full rundown of style essentials for late summer below, then let’s hit the road.

A tough overshirt pairs up quite well with slim dark denim and a classic tee to close out summer — no matter where you go.

  • The Overshirt: Flint and Tinder Bedford Camp Shirt, $168 — Part overshirt, part versatile outdoor jacket, all style — soft-washed Bedford cotton and a pleasingly unique Hickory color make this rugged overshirt a must-have for late summer.
  • The Classic Tee: Taylor Stitch Heavy Bag Tee, $45 — Plain and simple, Taylor Stitch will never let you down — and neither will the sustainable, rugged Taylor Stitch Heavy Bag Tee, a perfect solo layer during the day — and equally perfect at sunset.
  • The Denim: Flint and Tinder Defender Denim, $138 — Rugged dark blue denim also, similarly, never fails — especially when worn in pursuit of your favorite craft beer or more firewood, right? The Flint and Tinder Defender Denim just work.
  • The Rugged Boots: Red Wing Heritage 6-Inch Classic Moc Boots, $290 — Make no mistake, we’ve talked about these Red Wing Heritage boots on the blog before — time to break ’em back out of the closet. The perfect combo of durability & style.
  • The Watch: Lum-Tec M84 Automatic Watch, $1,095 — Before you balk at the price of this rugged leather watch, just know that it’s an everyday watch you can wear starting now … and heck, through next winter. Lum-Tec gets it right.
  • The Socks: Orvis Invincible Extra Cotton Socks, $49 (Three-pack) — Want exceedingly comfortable socks that can stand up to anything provide a heck of a lot of cushioning in the process? These Orvis socks do just that.
  • The Hat: Stetson Chapman Hat, $155 — To be sure, a classic Stetson hat undoubtedly isn’t for everyone … but given that this outfit screams “rugged outdoor adventure” (or heck, “whiskey distillery visit,”), it just works.
  • The Tough Everyday Bag: Filson Duffel Backpack, $245 — Does this exceptional Filson Duffel Backpack qualify as an “everyday bag,” per se? Maybe? It depends on where you take it — and for all of summer’s last adventures, it certainly fits the bill.

The thing about the end of summer is that when you gear up with the proper pieces, it can actually be enjoyable to start making the transition between seasons — take the Flint and Tinder Bedford Camp Shirt, for instance. It’s a soft-washed camp shirt that’s ideal for just that: Outdoor camping and hiking, plus day trips and brewery visits aplenty. You’re also getting a dash of versatile summer style with the Taylor Stitch Heavy Bag Tee, easy to wear during the day, and then fit to throw on the Flint and Tinder Bedford Camp Shirt atop when the sun dips down. Rugged dark blue denim also acts as a fine go-between from day to night, and this particular pair will get better the more you wear them (and trust me). Take it all in stride with a pair of trusty Red Wing Heritage boots, another menswear essential that goes from the trail to the town with ease. Of course, this #OOTD would be nothing without a rugged leather watch from Lum-Tec — this thing can take a beating, and then some. We’re topping it all off with a classic Stetson hat to keep the sun off your face while giving this ensemble some rugged appeal. And to haul whatever it is you happen to need on the everyday carry front? Load up the Filson Duffel Backpack. If you put all of these components together, you’re going to be more than ready to close out summer & head toward fall.

by Beau H.

#OOTD: How to Dress for A Summer Bonfire

We sure do love a great, versatile #OOTD for summer — who doesn’t, am I right? And today, we’re getting just a little specific as we look toward the end of summer and the start of fall. That being said, there’s still some time to indulge in the finer pleasures of life, like throwing on a stylish zip hoodie (they exist!), cracking open a cold beer & enjoying a summer bonfire. It’s an oddly specific situation, to be sure, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t reach for men’s style essentials to help you dress your best. That being said, I think I’ve pulled together a look here that’ll help you take on that backyard BBQ with stylish ease, and keep you casual and comfortable during an evening bonfire thereafter. It’s one of those situations where you can go casual, and yet still look stylish as all get-out. From easygoing SeaVees slip-ons to slim chino shorts to a stylish leather watch and a throwback-inspired T-shirt from the folks at Flint and Tinder, this #OOTD has you covered from A-to-Z in terms of essential off-duty style. If you ask me, that’s the perfect way to savor these last few weeks of summer — dressed in a look that’s laidback, yet great-looking, all the while enjoying the company of family and friends … preferably with a cold brew in hand. Enjoy, and cheers!

The upgraded way to enjoy a bonfire, from the stylish hoodie to a cool tee.

  • The Hoodie: Flint and Tinder 10-Year Hoodie in Gray, $98 — There’s a good chance that the thermostat might drop a little bit when the sun goes down, so when it does, reach for the legendary Flint and Tinder 10-Year Hoodie.
  • The Tee: Flint and Tinder City Slub Tee, $32 — Want to separate yourself from the pack with subtle style? A classic T-shirt like the unique Flint and Tinder City Slub Tee, featuring a throwback-inspired logo, does it.
  • The Shorts: Flint and Tinder 365 Shorts, $78 — Let’s make it three-for-three when it comes to Flint and Tinder gear here — the 365 Shorts are the slim chino shorts you need to close out summer.
  • The Belt: Cause and Effect Brindle Belt, $130 — Go vintage-inspired and eye-catching with a rugged leather belt from Cause and Effect — a great way to set this outfit apart from the everyday.
  • The Sneakers: SeaVees Huntington Middie in Dark Navy, $108 –Your stylish casual sneakers are really where you’re going to stand out, even at a bonfire — the SeaVees Huntington Middie is a surefire upgrade over plain old slip-ons or athletic sneakers.
  • The Watch: Hemel HFT20 Watch, $382.50 — Why wear a rugged leather watch like the Hemel HFT20 to a bonfire? ‘Cuz it’s a darn-stylish accessory and the perfect complement to this rugged, laidback outfit.
  • The Hat: Corridor NYC Cap in Natural Vege Suede, $45 — There’s really no way to go wrong if you’re shopping for gear from Corridor NYC — the Natural Vege Suede Cap is unique, subtly stylish and just plain cool to wear to an outdoor bonfire and BBQ.
  • The Essential: Taylor Stitch Camp Mug in Bear Print, $38 — What are you sipping around the bonfire? Perhaps a tasty homemade whiskey drink or the like — the Taylor Stitch Camp Mug is a durable, eco-friendly way to do it.

Should dressing for a summer bonfire be a priority in terms of style? Absolutely. It’s the small situations in life that can be the most fun to dress for, anyways — who wouldn’t want to throw on a stylish hoodie (like the Flint and Tinder 10-Year Hoodie!), hang out around a bonfire and sip some beers with friends? That’s what this #OOTD allows you to do — from the Flint and Tinder City Slub Tee to the tailored-yet-casual 365 Shorts, this ensemble is all about keeping it laidback yet put-together. Crucial footwear like the SeaVees Huntington Middie drive home the casual-yet-functional vibe of this ensemble, as does a rugged leather watch like the Hemel HFT20. Don’t understate the value that stylish accessories, like the Natural Vege Suede Cap and the Cause and Effect Brindle Leather Belt, can bring to a casual style situation, either.  I’m telling you, there’s nearly no way you can go wrong when you reach for men’s style essentials that are easy to wear, subtly stylish and very, very well-made. Are you ready for your next summer bonfire yet? Just make sure it’s not the last — there’s still plenty of time to get your friends together … and plenty of time to look great! Thanks for reading — cheers!

by Beau H.

See Now, Buy Now: The Rugged Flint and Tinder Western Shirt Is A Transitional Essential

An unexpected summer layer to take you into fall.

Now, when you think of summer style essentials, I’d bet that a rugged Western shirt isn’t exactly at the top of your list, right? Too stuffy, too stiff and too hot? Not so fast.  I’d implore you to reconsider that notion, my friends — especially when it comes to the Flint and Tinder Bone Button Western Shirt, and particularly as we move through August toward September (gasp). What makes the Bone Button Western Shirt a unique option for summer styling as August drags on? And what makes this Flint and Tinder shirt the right choice to wear into fall? Allow me. Made with 8oz. cotton denim for a nice balance between being overly heavy and too lightweight, the Flint and Tinder Western Shirt has all the marks of a classic menswear essential from the lauded in-house brand at Huckberry.

That means quality construction, unique touches like silver-gray stitching, and yes, the burnt cow bone buttons that truly set the Flint and Tinder Western Shirt apart. If I were you, I’d treat this stylish Western shirt exactly like you might wear your classic Oxford shirt or rugged chambray shirt — for starters, it’s easy to style with your favorite chino shorts and white canvas sneakers.

That’s really just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the essential utility and style of the Flint and Tinder Western Shirt  — it’s really an excellent piece to buy now, wear now and then keep handy come fall. Treat it like your favorite flannel shirt, just slightly lighter. Layer it under a grey crewneck sweater or throw it on over a classic thermal shirt come fall, for starters. The unique Stonewash Denim finish of this here classic denim shirt also stands out alongside everything from rich dark indigo jeans (a study in contrast!) to grey five-pocket pants to classic khaki chinos. And the Western-style construction of the Flint and Tinder Bone Button Shirt checks plenty of boxes in terms of timeless-yet-edgy style, too. The point stitching across the back and the pockets lends this piece a classic air, yet the  Flint and Tinder Western Shirt isn’t going to look out of place when worn to a rock concert or to your favorite dive bar (preferably paired with slim black jeans and classic suede chukka boots).

What say you? Are you going to take the Flint and Tinder Western Shirt for a spin soon?

by Beau H.

#OOTD: The Best Way to Wear a Flannel Shirt This Fall

Gather ’round, Style Guide readers — today’s #OOTD tackles a favorite topic when it comes to rugged men’s fall style: How to wear a flannel shirt this season. If flannel shirts call to mind the mid-aughts boom of American workwear, well, they should — they were a key piece of #menswear then, and the right flannel shirt is just as relevant now. Today’s shirt of choice, the Filson Vintage Flannel Shirt, channels just the vibe you want when wearing a flannel shirt. It’s got all the trappings of a classic piece, but it’s just a bit more modern. With a cool black-and-cream color, it’s less outdoors-y and instead, just …  a cool shirt. And the way you wear your new favorite flannel shirt is going to make all the difference, too. Pair it with rugged style essentials like a premium slim henley and textured Bedford cord pants, and you’re going to shake off all those “urban lumberjack” connotations. Fear not, though — we’re still finishing off this #OOTD with rugged leather boots.  I know this much: You can make this outfit work for you at a football tailgate, at a bonfire or on a brewery tour — and that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Let me know your thoughts over on Twitter when you get the chance, if you so please.

Best men's flannel shirts

Think again about how you wear your flannel shirt — this Filson shirt bucks the trend and looks great.

The Flannel Shirt: Filson Vintage Flannel Work Shirt in Black and Cream, $145 — The centerpiece of many a stylish and rugged fall outfit, Filson gets the color and classic fabrication just right with its Vintage Flannel Work Shirt.

The Henley: Billy Reid Speckled Henley, $155.98 —  Yet another critical fall layer, this made-in-Italy Billy Reid henley is a premium upgrade over a standard thermal henley — perfect for layering with a Filson flannel.

The Pants: BANKS Roll Bedford Cord Jean, $75 — Rather than reaching for dark blue denim, reach for the slim, fall-ready BANKS Bedford Cord Jean — textured, unique and slim-fitting.

The Boots: Wolverine Original 1000 Mile Boots in Roughout, $299.98 (When On-Sale) — For fall, Wolverine has taken its 1000 Mile Boots and upgraded them in a rich, seasonally ready roughout leather. Perfect.
The Belt: Sturdy Brothers Everyday Belt in Chestnut, $80 — To stand up to your sturdy leather boots and a rugged flannel shirt, a tough leather belt from Sturdy Brothers is just what the doctor ordered.
The Watch: Pantor Sea Lion Watch, $424.98— This outfit is packed with fall-ready neutrals, so shake up your wrist game with the striking, durable Pantor Sea Lion Watch. It’s the ideal, rugged watch to wear to a football game or a bar crawl.
The Bag: Topo Designs Mountain Briefcase, $119.98 — Whether you head to a house party or out on a day trip, the sturdy, well-made Topo Designs Mountain Briefcase is more casual (and durable) than the briefcase moniker implies.
The Beard Balm: Upstate Stock Willowemoc Beard Balm, $22 — Upstate Stock happens to be one of my favorite spots for menswear in Brooklyn — and they make a nice beard balm to tame your mane this season.
Are you sold yet on the versatile, rugged styling potential of the  Vintage Flannel Work Shirt from Filson? In a cool color scheme, it’ll work as a warm top layer over something as premium and understated as the Billy Reid Speckled Henley. And when you team up that combo with a crisp set of trousers like the BANKS Roll Bedford Cords, you’re set for casual fall excursions from the city to the country and back. Don’t step foot outside this fall without tough leather boots, either — I’d strongly urge you to invest in the stellar Wolverine 1000 Mile Boots — are you with me there? A durable, weather-ready watch like the Pantor Sea Lion Watch is going to fit right in with the tough nature of this outfit, and the Topo Designs Mountain Briefcase is standing at the ready if you need a new fall go-to to haul your everyday carry. So, I think we’re all set with today’s #OOTD. Thanks, as always, for reading!
-Beau

by Beau H.

See Now, Buy Now: Add to Your Watch Collection with the Timex Waterbury Stainless Steel Dive Watch

Timex Waterbury

One heck of a watch for the price — maybe one to buy right now, as it were?

One of the things that comes up a lot at The Style Guide (weekly? daily?) is the importance of buying quality, affordable and versatile #menswear pieces. From a classic Oxford shirt to a rugged henley to slim, American-made denim, that type of quality and wearability is out there — if only you know where to look. Such is the case with Timex, a brand that you might have glazed over in the past, one that now deserves a second, or third, look. And in the latest entry in our ongoing See Now, Buy Now series, we’re giving the rugged, essential Timex Waterbury Stainless Steel Dive Watch a close look — it’s among the best men’s casual watches to buy now, I can say that much.  The Waterbury Stainless Steel Diver plays off the brand’s vintage-leaning, stylish Waterbury line — surely, you’ll recognize the rugged Timex x Red Wing Waterbury Chrono from the pages of this blog. The Waterbury Stainless Steel Diver is in a league of its own, starting with the standout price and carrying right on through to its handsome, subtly stylish and easily wearable aesthetic.

It’s a rugged men’s dive watch that gets the look right without a cluttered design. While it’s not exactly made for plunging into great depths in the ocean, it’s a daily watch that’s more than serviceable thanks to the classic durability for which Timex is known. For you and me both, that’s great news. And the better news? You can get it via Bespoke Post, purveyors of plenty more of your favorite #menswear.  If there’s one watch to wear to the office with a classic navy blazer during the week while also teaming it with a rugged short-sleeve henley on the weekend, it’s the Waterbury Stainless Steel Diver. Folks, that type of affordable style can’t be emphasized enough. And a rugged stainless steel dive watch is the perfect piece to add a bit of toughness and visual interest to cold-weather outfits, too — perfect given that we’ll be into fall before you know it. With all that being said … I can’t recommend the Waterbury Stainless Steel Diver enough. That’s as true right now as it’ll be when fall hits.

Shop away, and thanks for reading!

-Beau

by Beau H.

See Now, Buy Now: Rancourt & Co. 4-Season Ranger Moc

The Natural Chromexcel take on the 4-Season Ranger Moc — exceedingly ready for early fall, ehh?

As we draw slightly, slightly closer to September in our See Now, Buy Now series here at The Style Guide, it’s time to turn our attention toward menswear staples that can help you step out of your classic summer sneakers and into gear that’s just a bit more transition-friendly. It’s a tall task, seeing as we’ve all grown accustomed to summer’s laidback, breezy style — yet, we’ll do our best to find some helpful #menswear to get the job done. So, we’re talking gear that’s a bit tougher and more regard, for starters.

Rancourt & Co.

The Carolina Brown 4-Season Ranger Moc, a shoe with vintage roots and durable construction.

And in that regard, I think there’s one casual, rugged shoe that you can reliably reach for from now and into … October. Yep, October. And that shoe would have to be the Rancourt & Co. 4-Season Ranger Moc, an exclusive Rancourt & Co. offering available for a short time only via my pals at Huckberry.  Available in two beautiful shades of leather — including Carolina Brown as seen above — the 4-Season Ranger Moc is a shoe that calls to mind both preppy waterfront style and the crunch of fall leaves underfoot further inland. That versatility comes from the Rancourt & Co. signature camp moc sole set beneath a beautiful Horween leather upper, along with the pleasingly familiar camp moc silhouette. Certainly, classic suede chukkas are also a reliable choice for your feet as we start to (slowly) get ready for fall, but the 4-Season Ranger Moc has plenty going for it. And when Rancourt & Co.  says four seasons … they mean, four seasons. Crucially, the  4-Season Ranger Moc looks like that trusty pair of shoes you slip on at your cabin or over the holidays … yet you can (and should!) buy the Ranger Moc right this instant.

For starters, break them out now with a classic Oxford shirt and slim chino shorts while it’s still warm. Then — at least if I were you — I’d nod toward the coming chillier temperatures accordingly — take a casual washed hoodie and a classic men’s T-shirt and match those two up with a pair of faded, American-made denim for your next bonfire or casual weekend coffee run. And when it starts to get just even chillier, pair the 4-Season Ranger Moc with a lightweight cardigan and a rugged striped henley for early fall style. Oh, and when it comes time to pack up a stylish weekender bag for a camping trip? Easy. Just make sure you’ve got the 4-Season Ranger Moc in tow — or on your feet, better yet. Getting ready for fall? Same here. Heck, it might be as easy as snagging the 4-Season Ranger Moc right now.

What do you think of the rugged, instantly classic 4-Season Ranger Moc? Worthy of your purchase? Let me know on Twitter! 

Thanks for reading!

-Beau

by Beau H.

#OOTD: Here’s The Rugged Henley to Wear This Summer

If there’s one item I reach for more consistently than any other — no matter the season — it’s got to be a rugged men’s henley. Yes indeed, in the high heat of summer (the perfect time for a short-sleeve henley) and the chilling depths of winter (hello, slim long-sleeve henley), it’s simply an easy-to-wear, effective and stylish choice. But you knew that, right? After all, we talked this spring about how to upgrade your henley. There’s no question that it can easily layer under your favorite summer blazer or be worn on its own — crucially. And today’s all-new, hyper-stylish #OOTD here on The Style Guide covers perhaps the best short-sleeve henley to buy now — or at least, consider buying. And if you read the blog frequently — and shop the hallowed halls of Style Guide friend Huckberry — you should know the brand that makes it: The inimitable folks at Flint and Tinder.

As it were, the centerpiece of today’s outfit is the Flint and Tinder Supima AirKnit Henley, done up in comfortable, breathable fabric with a modern fit. The rest of this ensemble has all the trappings of a rugged, tough outfit that someone like, say, noted henley wearer Mr. Daniel Craig might enjoy wearing.  At any rate, I hope you’re excited to check out some slim dark blue denim, classic men’s boots and a few other hard-wearing touches — including a rugged casual watch. If I were you, I’d wear this outfit out to your next brew pub crawl or even a quick day trip out to the country. And it’s even got a couple pieces — like a stylish everyday backpack — that might get you from point A to point B in many a situation. I don’t want to ruin all the fun, though. Read on below and let me know how you like these #menswear picks!

Rugged men's henley

Take your (new) favorite rugged henley and layer it with a crisp bomber jacket, dark denim and tough boots — wear it now sans jacket, and keep this look handy come fall.

The Henley: Flint and Tinder Supima AirKnit Henley, $55 — First things first: Don’t be alarmed by the use of black here! This Flint and Tinder henley is crisp and slimming, and gents like Daniel Craig  make frequent use of black tees on their own.

The Bomber: Taylor Stitch Bomber Jacket in Charcoal, $188 — If you know Taylor Stitch, you know that they excel at tough, rugged and yet wearable pieces — this Taylor Stitch bomber jacket works for cool summer evenings and chillier fall days in equal measure.

The Denim: Abercrombie & Fitch Langdon Slim Coolmax Jeans, $88 — A&F, a favorite of The Style Guide, is back with a revamped denim line featuring revamped fits — the Langdon is slim, classic and wearble in August thanks to Coolmax technology.

The Belt: Sturdy Brothers Everyday Belt in Chestnut, $80 — Lest you think accessories don’t matter … think again. The folks at Sturdy Brothers make a heritage-quality belt that happens to mesh perfectly with this look.

The Boots: Astorflex Bootflex in Dark Khaki, $190 — Quality lace-up boots made with sustainable style in mind for under $200? That’s what you get with the surprisingly lightweight Astorflex Bootflex.

(Not Pictured) The Socks: Teva Benny Gold Socks (Limited Edition), $12 — Space can be limited in our #OOTD series, but socks that offer up a pop of pleasingly bright blue should pair well with the A&F dark blue denim.

The Watch: Lum-Tec Combat B35 Automatic Watch, $799.98 — You might say this rugged Lum-Tec watch is the grandaddy of them all. Beastly looks, excellent styling potential, rugged vibes, a handsome leather strap … the  Lum-Tec Combat B35 belongs on any wish list of the best men’s gear.

The Backpack: Topo Designs Klettersack, $188 — Don’t get me wrong, I love a stylish messenger bag as much as the next guy. But if you want a grab-and-go bag for a day trip or a bar crawl — particularly when paired with a rugged menswear ensemble — the Topo Designs Klettersack could be your best bet.

The Sunscreen: Salt & Stone Sunscreen (SPF 30) , $17.99 — Sunscreen is one of those things that’s likely the last item tossed in any bag — with Salt & Stone‘s crisp design (and important functionality!), you won’t forget it again.

Have you given any thought as to where you might take this outfit? It can go just about anywhere — an upstate day trip, a trip to the farmer’s market and your local park, an afternoon at your favorite watering hole … and I’d wager it’s all because of the rugged versatility of the Flint and Tinder henley shown here. And because it can go anywhere, it’s important you grab a similarly tough bag. For instance: Take the Topo Designs Klettersack and fill it with essentials like the Taylor Stitch Bomber Jacket and much-needed Salt & Stone sunscreen. And the best part is that you can easily complement your Flint and Tinder henley with other rugged basics, from dark denim to the crisp, stylish Astorflex Bootflex. What you’ve got on your wrist is equally important — my favorite part of this ensemble might be the Lum-Tec Combat B35. And if you read this blog, you know that the details make the difference — start with a heritage-quality belt and go from there.

Let me know: What do you think of this rugged #OOTD? Drop a line in the comments!

Thanks so much for reading,

-Beau

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Bradley Mountain Utility Bag

Plenty of exterior pockets, tough specs and handsome looks — your new favorite spring travel bag.

If you can believe it, it’s Saturday again — and that means it’s time for another Style Pick of the Week, this one featuring the essential, adventure-ready Bradley Mountain Utility Bag. If you haven’t yet had the chance to travel in style this month — either due to colder-than-expected March weather or a busy season at work (shoutout to all the accountants out there), hopefully this week’s #menswear pick will inspire you to hit the road soon. The Bradley Mountain Utility Bag is an unexpected, unique piece in terms of its design — part oversized tote bag, part durable weekender. That means you can sling it over your shoulder or carry it by your side — seriously, nothing tops a stylish travel bag. And there’s no question we could all use one of those in our rotation. For quick overnight trips or multi-day stays — such as my own February trip to New Haven — there’s nothing I need more than a handsome, tough piece to carry all my favorite gear; if you’re in the same boat, stick with me here. For starters, know that this bag will work if you’ve got a spring break trip upcoming, or just a much-needed weekend getaway. Crucially, you needn’t worry about having enough room to hold each and every piece of your everyday carry — with seven external pockets, the Bradley Mountain Utility Bag might actually boast the most exterior storage of any bag you own. And the rest of the specs? Well, they’re enough to make you want to buy the Bradley Mountain Utility Bag on the spot — maybe.
Beckett Simonon

Let’s start with the rugged exterior — yes indeed, the 15oz. Martexin waxed duck canvas exterior on the Bradley Mountain Utility Bag is built to withstand everything, from being tossed around a campsite to being tossed into an overheard bin. Even the custom leather straps and detailing should prove sturdy, made from 9oz. oiled and waxed custom leather. Both those design touches mean the entire bag, from top to bottom, is going to get better the more you use it. Whether you’re dressed in casual, classic everyday spring style for a weekend trip or wearing your new favorite long-sleeve polo on a business trip, the Bradley Mountain Utility Bag is going to move with you in style. Of course, this bag certainly leans more rugged — so if you find yourself needing more refined travel luggage for cross-country jaunts, you might want to pass on picking this one up. With that being said, the Bradley Mountain Utility Bag is so well-made and tough that it just might be an essential, much-needed addition to your everyday carry.  What do you think? And where will your own spring travels take you? Let me know via the comments and join us via The Style Guide Facebook page for more great #menswear.

Buy the Bradley Mountain Utility Bag now via Huckberry.  

Greats

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Abercrombie & Fitch Chamois Shirt

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

Travel essentials fit for hitting the road and fighting the cold. Chamois Shirt by Abercrombie & Fitch. Explorer's Cap by Huckberry. Messenger bag and 810 Wallet by Brothers Leather. Calypso Watch by MVMT Watches. miUSA 585 Sneakers by New Balance. Magazine by Gear Patrol.

Quite possibly your new favorite winter shirt? Maybe, just maybe. Chamois Shirt by Abercrombie & Fitch. Explorer’s Cap by Huckberry. Messenger bag and 810 Wallet by Brothers Leather. Calypso Watch by MVMT Watches. miUSA 585 Sneakers by New Balance. Magazine by Gear Patrol.

As we’ve talked about time and again with our Style Pick of the Week series, building a winter wardrobe with top-to-bottom efficiency and style in mind is key. That starts with smaller touches like stylish winter accessories and carries on through to rugged winter boots, outerwear and versatile layering pieces. And with a bit of throwback style, prime layering potential and a slightly vintage feel in mind, that’s what brings us to today’s Style Pick. In short, we’re talking about the best shirt you didn’t know you needed, the Abercrombie & Fitch Chamois Shirt. It’s yet another example of an essential from a brand that continues to add to its very stylish and updated #menswear arsenal – if you’re not yet familiar with their revamp, it’s a story worth reading (and shopping). Yes, head of men’s design Aaron Levine – formerly of Club Monaco fame – has done an excellent job tapping into the brand’s illustrious heritage while leaving behind the baggy cargo shorts and gaudy polos of years past. If that sounds too good to be true, it really isn’t. This chamois shirt is the sort of classic piece that your father or grandfather might’ve taken camping or hiking – the Taylor Stitch Yosemite Shirt is another great example of this style. The brushed cotton of the Abercrombie & Fitch Chamois Shirt is especially soft and comfortable, the color is great (particularly to offset a casual hat like the and the design touches make it an instant (and easily wearable) new classic. With front-button chest pockets and a tailored-but-not-restrictive fit, it’s an astonishingly great winter men’s style upgrade – and this particular version is available for just under $30. Seriously – under $30 on-sale.

I had the chance to take the Abercrombie & Fitch Chamois Shirt on the road with me during a winter trip to Grand Rapids, and I was more than pleased with its wearability and style. I layered it over a tough, warm marled long-sleeve henley for a day of travel, and the slightly faded red color proved a perfect complement to pair of Abercrombie and Fitch denim, as it were. The shirt also worked nearly seamlessly for layering, and proved just as easy to wear when commuting to the airport as it did exploring chilly Grand Rapids. That’s exactly why you need a piece like this in your closet. The soft brushed fabric helps it wear more like an overshirt than a classic blue Oxford or even a rugged chambray shirt. Crucially, that means you can layer it over a henley or even atop a classic crewneck sweater for a visually interesting combo on a casual weekend outing. Of course, you can even layer it under a more edgy piece of outerwear — might I suggest the JackThreads Munro Leather Biker Jacket? Plus, it’s surprisingly warm and well-fitting – both small bonuses that make a difference when it comes to chilly winter weather (there’s no added bulk to be found). And again, the price really can’t be beat. If you find you can’t quite take the plunge when it comes to the more expensive Taylor Stitch Yosemite Shirt , the Abercrombie & Fitch Chamois Shirt is exactly the replacement piece you need. Heck, even if you’ve already got a rugged chamois shirt in your closet, I’d say you should absolutely run out and snatch up this piece – what’s the hold-up, ehh?

Let me know in the comments if you’re a fan of Abercrombie and Fitch’s recent revamp – and happy shopping!

-Beau