See Now, Buy Now: Mollusk Surf Shop Is Making Your New Spring Chinos

A close-up look at a pair of chinos that are ready to wear with plenty of gear you already own.

While the classic, much-loved chino pant is nothing new in terms of early spring style, there are some new places you should consider looking if in fact you really, really want to step into this season the right way. What I mean to say is, Mollusk Surf Shop is but one unexpected brand that deserves a second look. Specifically, the Mollusk Surf Shop Chino Pants  — simply named, cleanly designed and more than ready for the season ahead. Let’s be clear: A classic pair of chino pants can work at any time of the year, but there’s something about early spring that feels especially well-suited to something like the Mollusk Surf Shop Chino Pants. The fit is tailored but not too tight, the cotton construction is amplified thanks to the made-in-the-USA quality, and the Mash Green color is a nice seasonal go-between.

There are no overly fancy bells and whistles at play when it comes to the Mollusk Surf Shop Chino Pants — this is just a solid pair of classic cotton chinos, all the better for pairing with similarly versatile spring style essentials. In the view of your Style Guide author, that means complementary pieces like durable leather chukkas, a rugged denim shirt  and a go-anywhere leather watch. And the good news, a pair of surprisingly tough chinos from Mollusk Surf Shop can add a bit of unexpectedly laidback style to many a spring ensemble. Army green chinos also work quite handsomely with even the most minimal of pieces — think a crisp white tee and white leather sneakers, perhaps capped off with your new favorite denim jacket. The Mollusk Surf Shop Chino Pants are a neat way to trade in your light wash denim or navy chinos for something just a bit more different and a bit more fresh; that’s where all the best seasonal style upgrades start, after all.

Can you get on board with the Mollusk Surf Shop Chino Pants for March weather (and beyond)? 

See Now, Buy Now: The Talisman Jacket from Triple Aught Design Is Ready for Spring Rain

Remarkable durability and standout construction, all done with a blend of classic and sleek style in mind.

There are times where a lightweight, more packable rain jacket isn’t quite going to cut it — be it an off-trail adventure or a daylong outing (maybe with some shopping and a brewery trip thrown in), you need the right gear for the job. And well, my friends … the right gear for the job just so happens to be the Triple Aught Design Talisman Jacket, a positively beastly coat and the latest See Now, Buy Now entry on ye olde Style Guide. For when times get tough and rainy, the Talisman Jacket should prove an able-bodied companion to reach for at a moment’s notice. Dramatics aside, Triple Aught Design focuses on streamlined styles packed with functionality — case in point being the Talisman Jacket. The woven and waxed cotton canvas shell can certainly stand up to similar jackets in the category, creating an outer layer that’s breathable yet waterproof. And as luck would have it, the Triple Aught Design Talisman Jacket is made in the good ole U.S.A — who can say no to that extra attention to detail, right?

 

Heck, even the hood is durable to a fault — it’s made of Ventile, perfect for putting up when the rain really starts coming down. Snapdown pockets give you crucial space for your everyday carry, and a fit that’s slightly more relaxed offers the chance to layer the Talisman Jacket up as you please. As for me, I’d keep it simple: A classic grey crewneck sweater, slim dark jeans and tough leather boots. Oh, and a rugged casual watch. Aside from that, this jacket just looks classic as heck, yet small touches like slanted stitching on the snap pockets lends the Triple Aught Design Talisman Jacket a bit more of a modern flair. As one might say, it’s just the full package. No questions asked.

Can you dig the Triple Aught Design Talisman Jacket? How would you wear it this spring? 

See Now, Buy Now: The Astorflex Bitflex Chelsea Boots Are the Best Way to Step into Spring

Now available via Huckberry for a heck of a price, these sleek and simple Chelsea boots are primed for spring.

Let’s get one thing straight right off the bat: Yes, we really do love ourselves some Astorflex boots here at The Style Guide. They make a heck of a pair of classic chukka boots, for starters. What’s more, this sustainably made, stylish brand keeps churning out essential men’s footwear, season after season, from lace-up boots to sneakers to today’s offering — more than worthy of including ’em in our latest See Now, Buy Now feature (Editor’s note: Click through to read all about why I love Astorflex). And lest you think we’re repeating ourselves here, the Astorflex Bitflex Chelsea Boots on display today are an all-new pair, exclusive to our pals at Huckberry. Can you say “spring style essentials,” anyone? The Cuoio Bitflex Chelsea Boots blend a striking new color with a sleek and easily wearable silhouette, and they do so just in time for prime “Chelsea boots season.” Is there such a thing? Perhaps not … until now.


How do you get into this monumental (and all-new!) season the right way? Well, it’s relatively simple. Pick a pair of the best light wash denim for men, throw on the Astorflex Bitflex Chelsea Boots in a handsome shade of dark tan, then accessorize with simple staples like a rugged short-sleeve henley (when it’s warm out) or a classic crewneck sweater or waxed trucker jacket (when it’s still a little chilly this March). The natural rubber soles provide comfort from the ground up, while the leather on the Astorflex Bitflex Chelsea Boots is treated with all-natural ingredients for a purchase you can certainly feel good about. The easy-to-wear nature of the Cuoio Bitflex Chelsea Boots means you can match them up with other neutral style staples for early spring, including navy chinos and a charcoal Oxford — that’s a look that’ll work wonders for you at the office and at happy hour. You justt need to snag your pair, well … now.

Who’s going to be picking up the Cuoio Bitflex Chelsea Boots from Astorflex? I’d love to hear from you in the comments below! 

See Now, Buy Now: The Szanto Vintage Dive Watch Is Your New Go-To Casual Timepiece

A dependable leather watch with excellent specs,courtesy of Szanto.

Our See Now, Buy Now series here on The Style Guide covers all manner of durable, dependable everyday goods, from your next winter jacket to a handy set of everyday carry essentials. And yet, y’know what we haven’t talked about in a while?  A stylish casual watch . And the Szanto Vintage Dive Watch is just what you need, packed with rugged, tough style and easy-to-wear looks aplenty.  As  a fan of everyday style essentials like a classic Oxford shirt, faded denim and durable suede chukkas, I think there’s little that the Szanto Vintage Dive Watch can’t when styled with pieces you already own and love — that goes for the depths of winter or the first breezy day of spring. Featuring a nicely sized 43mm diameter, this handsome watch is just part of a lineup of stellar, classically styled and ruggedly fabricated Szanto watches that team well with gear that we already recommend you own. Y’know, pieces like a waxed trucker jacket, rugged winter boots and your favorite henley for cold weather.

Rest assured, the specs of the Szanto Vintage Dive Watch go beyond just looks. It’s made with a waterproof leather strap, nearly unheard of in the watch community, and features details like a striking bronze-plated case and a sharp blue dial. It’s also waterproof to 200 meters, meaning this watch could even be worn to the boat or to the beach without missing a beat this spring and summer. The Japanese quartz movement should be reliable and durable, while the overall approach is as solid as it gets — this watch isn’t a cheap timepiece in terms of functionality, that much is true. Yes indeed, the Szanto Vintage Dive Watch is but one watch to snag right now from the entire arsenal of Szanto watches — and I’d put my money on the fact that you’ll be seeing quite a bit of the brand around here in the future.

Are you a fan of Szanto watches, and will this one be making its way onto your wrist? 

See Now, Buy Now: Take on Winter Weather with the Life/After/Denim Bradley Crew Sweatshirt

A classically designed sweatshirt that’s really two in one.

When the going gets tough this winter — as in, really tough, like “It’s too cold to leave the house” tough — you’re going to want to layer up accordingly. And what better way to start that whole process than with the Life/After/Denim Bradley Crew Sweatshirt, which is really two pieces in one? Yep, that’s right. It’s a cool approach from Life/After/Denim, a brand that always focuses on great fabrics, classic-yet-modern designs and slightly sporty style staples — like the Bradley Crew Sweatshirt.  This sweatshirt is retro-inspired yet a true staple of the moment — you certainly need a rugged crewneck sweatshirt in your life this season. The Auburn color is rich and winter-friendly on the one hand, while the classic Heather Grey on the other side is made for easygoing weekend style — team it with layering essentials like a durable field jacket and your favorite pair of jeans, plus some beat-up brown leather boots. See — two for the price of one ain’t bad at all.

And this sweater can also work in situations that are a bit more buttoned up; I’m not suggesting you wear it in lieu of a tuxedo to your next black-tie affair, but underneath a tan herringbone blazer with some navy corduroys or black denim? Absolutely. The Life/After/Denim Bradley Crew Sweatshirt works over a broken-in pocket tee for a laidback weekend at home, just as readily as it layers up over an American-made Oxford and slim chinos.  It’s also made from merino wool for extra warmth and a dash of quality — that’s the Life/After/Denim way, after all. The  Bradley Crew Sweatshirt has that sort of old-school, Americana-esque style — it’s not hard to imagine someone like Paul Newman or Robert Redford kicked back on a movie set wearing a sweatshirt like this. Can I guarantee you’ll look that cool? Not quite — but it’s worth a shot, right?

Will the Life/After/Denim Bradley Crew Sweatshirt be on your back this winter? Let me know via The Style Guide Facebook page! 

See Now, Buy Now: The Knickerbocker Mfg. Peg Coat Is Your Next Winter Jacket

A durable, classic-looking jacket that gets a lot of cool details right.

There are some menswear essentials that just jump out at you right away for their unique looks, classic design and rugged sense of style. The Knickerbocker Mfg. Peg Coat is certainly one such jacket, made with both quality and enduring style in mind. It’s got the sort of classic appeal that’s tough to find out there nowadays — maybe that’s because it’s crafted in America, for starters. The Peg Coat plays off classic military coats, what with its strong profile and crisp navy color — two welcome touches in a world filled with overly technical silhouettes. In fact, the Knickerbocker Mfg. Peg Coat could just be your new favorite winter coat, too — trust me on that. It’s the type of tough jacket that you’re going to find yourself reaching for a whole lot this season, built from the ground up with ridiculously warm melton wool and featuring felled seam construction. In short, that means you can grab it and go, throwing it on with ease over style staples like a rugged henley and classic slim chinos, no matter how cold it gets out there.

The Knickerbocker Mfg. Peg Coat also comes packed with handy extras that cement the brand’s approach to pproper construction and craftsmanship, like the welt handwarmer pockets lined with brushed denim for a touch of warmth. The shawl collar provides both rugged good looks and protection from winter’s chill, while the tailored fit is everything you need in a great winter coat. Again, it’s durable, it’s easily wearable with plenty of pieces already in your closet, and it’s both casual and yet slightly dressy (feel free to wear it as a blazer replacement over a classic Oxford shirt & knit tie combo). How about it? Will the Knickerbocker Mfg. Peg Coat be keeping you warm this season? Let me know in the comments!

 

Thanks for reading!

-Beau

 

See Now, Buy Now: The Tom Beckbe Tensaw Jacket Is Perfect for Rugged Winter Style

A hunting-inspired jacket that packs in just as much utility and style for city living.

There are jackets that are part of your winter wardrobe rotation, and then there’s one jacket that just might have the chops to replace every last one of ’em. That would be the Tom Beckbe Tensaw Jacket, the latest piece of gear to consider picking up this season for rugged, tough winter style. Tom Beckbe as a brand is a recent addition to the lineup over at Huckberry, and they’re certainly to be excited about — I mean, just look at the Tensaw Jacket. Rooted in outdoor heritage and designed with sporting adventure in mind, the Tensaw Jacket really is unlike anything else on the market … good news for you, my friend.It’s an American-made thing of beauty, featuring waxed shelter cloth fabric for a uniquely tough exterior. The silhouette is inspired by hunting jackets made for city life, something that calls to mind long walks through Prospect Park or trips to upstate New York … at least, that’s what the  Tom Beckbe Tensaw Jacket makes this writer think of. Gusseted underarms and a bi-swing back add plenty of mobility and utility — you could feasibly wear the Tom Beckbe Tensaw Jacket for real-life hunting, or you could just as easily pair it with your favorite rugged henley and a classic cardigan.

The small details are also done the right way here, right on down to the clay-dyed cotton twill lining. That lining should make for nice mobility without too much added bulk, and a collar lined with Bedford cord is yet another classic design touch that makes this jacket rugged and, quite simply, very cool. The Tom Beckbe Tensaw Jacket is the kind of jacket Bond might have worn in Scotland in “Skyfall” — how can you not dig a coat with that sort of pedigree? The Tobacco color is rich and striking, perfect for pairing up with slim indigo denim and a white henley, or alongside olive green corduroys and tan leather Chelsea boots for a mix of high and low style. Once again, if you haven’t yet considered picking up a coat like the Tom Beckbe Tensaw Jacket, now is as good a time as any.

Let me know on Twitter if you’ll be purchasing the Tom Beckbe Tensaw Jacket to kick off the new year.

Thanks for reading!

-Beau

 

See Now, Buy Now: Layer Up for Winter with Bridge & Burn’s Bedford Flannel Shirt

A rough-and-tumble flannel shirt for rough-and-tumble winter weather.

We talk often on The Style Guide about the right gear for the right season — and with this season being, well, winter, the latest entry in our See Now, Buy Now series is all about getting you ready as soon as possible. That’s specifically critical in the way of winter layering. So, what’s a guy to do? Luckily, our friends from Bridge & Burn are here to help, and not a moment too soon. Perhaps you’re dealing with yet another snow storm, or perhaps you’re dealing with that first big snowstorm … staying warm and stylish is critical either way. And the Bridge & Burn Bedford Flannel Shirt isn’t just any old flannel shirt — trust me.  It’s the type of rugged flannel shirt that’s going to serve as a ready layer over your favorite henley as you prepare a fire on chilly winter mornings, and it’s more than ready to layer up with a tough winter parka when the job requires you to get outside (Editor’s note: This list of the best men’s winter accessories is also more than ready for the season). The Bedford Flannel Shirt is certainly a classic flannel shirt, crafted from heavyweight cotton flannel and features a seven-button placket, ideal for layering. Button-closure chest pockets also add to the overshirt-like feel of the Bridge & Burn Bedford Shirt — yet another nicely considered touch from a brand that takes its roots seriously.
Holiday 2017

With a strong Pacific Northwest base, Bridge & Burn makes its gear with an eye toward rugged functionality and seasonally friendly wear — I found out as much when I visited the brand during a September 2017 trip to Portland. So, I’d say you can certainly count on the distinct wearability of the Bridge & Burn Bedford Flannel Shirt for winter’s adventures ahead. You can throw it on under a classic quilted field jacket  or a tough parka, and you’ll get nothing but terrific warmth and great style, too — how’s that for a winter wardrobe upgrade? Now, it’s a hot seller, so you’ll have to act fast … but it’ll pay off. Yes indeed, my friends … the Bridge & Burn Bedford Shirt is the menswear move to make now.

Tell me: Will the Bridge & Burn Bedford Shirt be part of your winter wardrobe rotation? 

 

 

See Now, Buy Now: Get the Color of the Season with the Raleigh Denim Alexander Stretch Jeans

A twist on traditional winter denim, featuring comfortable fabric and a seasonally friendly color.

We’ve all been there: The time comes around in the morning to pick out a reliable work week outfit, maybe something with a bit of tailored winter style … and you tend to reach for the same dependable pair of dark blue cords, denim or chinos. Not that that’s a bad thing! But every now and again — especially as we approach the doldrums of winter — a guy’s gotta switch up. And that’s where the Raleigh Denim Alexander Stretch Jeans  are going to be your saving grace. Whether you add the stylish Alexander Stretch Jeans to your own holiday style wish list (Christmas is VERY soon!), or whether you pick them up for the menswear fan in your life, everyone’s going to be more than happy to unwrap and wear the Alexander Stretch Jeans from Raleigh Denim. Why is that, Beau? It’s that crucial combination of style and comfort, plus a rich Walnut color that’s decidedly different from the varying hues of dark blue and charcoal a lot of us wear — and that’s a great thing.

The  Raleigh Denim Alexander Stretch Jeans  might feature a fabric blend that’s more lightweight than what you’d typically wear in winter, but that just gives you more freedom to layer up on your top half, from a stylish shawl collar cardigan to a classic indigo overshirt. They’re also washed for a broken-in feel, just what you need to feel comfortable and cozy curled up around the fire, heading to a Christmas Eve party — buy ’em now! — or hopping on a crosscountry flight (in style, naturally). The Alexander Stretch Jeans are a unique take on a traditional winter trouser, and that’s why your Style Guide author digs ’em so much. The  Raleigh Denim Alexander Stretch Jeans  are tapered slightly, but a bit roomier than they are skintight — that’s good when you want to channel polished, but relaxed, holiday style this season. And when the new year hits? You should certainly feel free to wear the  Raleigh Denim Alexander Stretch Jeans   with your favorite denim shirt and perhaps a classic field jacket for versatile style on the go. What do you say? Who’s ready for Christmas now? You are, my friend.

Are you a fan of the  Raleigh Denim Alexander Stretch Jeans   for gift giving or … wearing? Let me know in the comments! 

See Now, Buy Now: The Bespoke Post Moment Box Will Keep You On Time This Season

A stylish watch and an essential daily organization notebook — that’s about all you need for the holiday season, right?

What exactly do you get the guy who has everything this holiday season? Particularly if he’s a fan of stylish leather watches galore? Why, you get him the Bespoke Post Moment Box. The sharp, classic Moment Box is the latest addition to our See Now, Buy Now series, and I’ve got good news: It’s the perfect #menswear wish list item for yourself, too. Like other great Bespoke Post boxes — surely among the best subscription boxes for men — the Moment Box packs a ton into one stylish, easy-to-ship and easy-to-gift package. You, or the lucky recipient of the Bespoke Post Moment Box, gets one stylish Breda leather watch, a functional, effective and crisp watch that’s versatile enough for casual weekend style and more than able to help you suit up this winter. And what’s more important than staying on time in style for the holidays this season? Not much. The right watch goes with anything, and that’s more than enough reason to make the Moment Box your next purchase from Bespoke Post. Oh, and the kicker? Well, if you’re not familiar with the extremely well-curated men’s lifestyle site, know that when you sign up for Bespoke Post, you can get the Bespoke Post Moment Box for just $45. Yep, that’s a heck of a deal.

Plus, the Bespoke Post Moment Box is handy for another reason. In addition to your pick of four essential strap-and-dial combinations, the Moment Box also comes with a handy, simply titled Task Organizer. It’s a small, crisply designed notebooks with plenty of room for to-do lists, your own men’s style holiday wish list and of course, your list of other holiday shopping to get done (Editor’s note: Check out my guide to the best gifts for women this year in the meantime). OK, are you still with me? That’s a stylish leather watch, plus a handy  everyday carry essential, all for the low price of $45 … who’s sold? Ehh? Someone’s bound to be real happy opening this box come Christmas Day … even if that someone happens to be you.

Is the  Bespoke Post Moment Box going to make its way into the hands of the men’s style fan in your life this Christmas? Let me know on The Style Guide Facebook page!