See Now, Buy Now: The Taylor Stitch Triblend Tee is the Perfect White T-shirt

A close-up look at your new favorite T-shirt.

It’s an elusive #menswear staple that’s often talked about and often imitated, but rarely perfected. We’re talking, Style Guide readers, about the perfect white T-shirt.  What’s more, we’re talking about a stylish white T-shirt made by one of our favorite brands, the always on-point folks at Taylor Stitch. Yes indeed, the Taylor Stitch Triblend Tee is going to be a spring and summer go-to with darn near any style combo you dream up — as we always talk about in our ongoing See Now, Buy Now series, that type of versatility is to be recognized and applauded.  And you can rest assured that as long as you start off your ensemble with the perfect white T-shirt, the rest of your wardrobe will follow in equal measure. But why the Taylor Stitch Triblend Tee, and why now? Allow me to explain.

The right T-shirt for spring and summer features an exceptional fit — not too tight, not too baggy, with shoulders and sleeves that hug your frame. Without a doubt, Taylor Stitch T-shirts (including the Triblend Tee!) do that quite nicely. And then there’s the crisp white color — wearable with everything from your favorite pair of light wash denim and some classic high-top sneakers to combos that call for a bit more layering. For instance, you can take the Taylor Stitch Triblend Tee and throw it on underneath a classic chambray shirt for easygoing weekend style — just add slim tan chinos and white sneakers. It goes without saying that the Taylor Stitch Triblend Tee is going to look quite crisp underneath an unconstructed navy blazer at the office, too. Add in the fact that the price via Taylor Stitch is quite agreeable (just $45 for the Taylor Stitch Triblend Tee!) and you’ve found a shirt that’s going to work handsomely in the months ahead. So, does that sound like the perfect white T-shirt to you? I think it does. Check out The Style Guide on Facebook for more #menswear insights. 

Thanks for reading!

-Beau

See Now, Buy Now: Abercrombie & Fitch Is Making Some of the Best Spring Chinos

Is it a bold statement to say that a brand is making some of the best — or perhaps, the best — spring chinos out there? It sure is. But does it appear that Abercrombie & Fitch can deliver the goods when it comes to stylish spring chinos? Yes, yes it does. That’s where the Athletic Slim Officer’s Chinos in the brand’s reliable Rustin fit come into play. Abercrombie & Fitch revamped its denim line last year (to go along with its chinos), offering a range of fits for every taste. It’s part of the brand’s ongoing evolution — are you on board yet? I’m a big fan of the denim line, but had yet to check out the brand’s chinos; thus, the Athletic Slim Officer’s Chinos were the way to go (and a big thanks to the brand for sending them along!). Now, to business. The Athletic Slim Officer’s Chinos are as classic as it gets, right down to the inspiration, the fabrication and the small design details. They’re inspired by military officer chinos (as the name would imply) and built with timeless style in mind; certainly, you need a pair of chinos like that on your list of spring style essentials.

They even feature 100 percent cotton fabric from North Carolina’s Cramerton mill. Why does that matter? Well, it’s the very same mill that produced fabric for military uniforms during World War II — the fabric is the real deal, and it makes for a heck of a pair of classic men’s chinos. Unlike silhouettes of decades past, the fit here is more tapered toward the ankle, with some room in the thigh  … not too skinny, not too baggy … just right. In short, the Athletic Slim Officer’s Chinos are your answer as to what to wear with, well, darn near everything on your list this spring. A slub white tee and cotton canvas sneakers make perfect sense alongside the Athletic Slim Officer’s Chinos, as does an indigo denim jacket, a short-sleeve henley and classic suede desert boots.  And if you want to dress them up? Pair these stylish Abercrombie & Fitch chinos with a classic blue Oxford, brown leather wingtips and a navy cotton blazer for style that works any day of the week … in any year, for that matter. It’s rare to find a pair of chinos that harness that sense of classic construction with modern wearability, but A&F has knocked it out of the park.

Happy styling! And thanks for reading.

-Beau

See Now, Buy Now: The Rancourt & Co. Carson Mid Sneakers Can Help You Step into Spring

From the USA-made construction to the neat high-top silhouette, the Carson Mid checks a lot of boxes when it comes to spring style.

There’s a place in your wardrobe for the best men’s high-top sneakers, even outside of fall and winter (a time more traditonally associated with tougher footwear, yes?). That’s where the Rancourt & Co. Carson Mid Sneakers come into play, my friends. Spring is a season that calls for transitional footwear that still nods to the changing seasons — you need kicks that combine durability with substance and all-day versatility. That’s certainly essential when stepping through spring rains and transitioning from the office to happy hour (seriously, try wearing these kicks with slim tan chinos, a striped tee and an unconstructed cotton blazer this month). Again, the Rancourt & Co. Carson Mid Sneakers are a prime pick, without a doubt. The cotton duck canvas upper is unique and not frequently seen on sneakers — there’s really not much out there like the Rancourt & Co. Carson Mid Sneakers. What’s more, the Natural Canvas color nods toward the lighter shades of spring while also injecting these kicks with a bit of throwback style (classic white high-tops being that throwback style reference, of course).

And that’s not where the buck stops in terms of the quality and styling potential of these unique Rancourt & Co. kicks. The company puts in the same kind of approach that makes its other footwear so essential (for starters, see the  No sir, we’re talking excellent construction and that USA-made attention to detail that’s been in the Rancourt operation for decades. The canvas that we mentioned earlier is water and stain-resistant, and genuine leather laces add some neat visual interest to the Rancourt & Co. Carson Mid Sneakers — as if they couldn’t get any better. I’d say these handsome Rancourt & Co. sneakers will work with just about any combo you throw at them in the weeks and months ahead, from dark denim and an easygoing light blue chambray shirt to a striped tee and classic chinos. How will you style these essential transitional sneakers? Let me know in the comments below!

Thanks for reading,

-Beau

See Now, Buy Now: The Timex Weekender Chrono Is Your Next Casual, Everyday Watch

A heck of a versatile, casual watch from our good friends at Timex.

Join us for the second entry this week (!) in our See Now, Buy Now series, my friends. To start: Last month, we talked on The Style Guide about a rugged casual timepiece to stand up to the bolder, heartier textures of winter. Seeing as we’re now cruising right through March, it’s now only fitting to talk about a stylish casual timepiece that can suitably blend in with textured, yet breezier outfits for spring months. That timepiece, my friends, would be the Timex Weekender Chrono, featuring a slightly oversized face, a textured NATO strap (crucial) and a spring-friendly color combo. Timex is certainly a consistent favorite on the blog, all thanks to that critical blend of affordability and style that hits right down the middle of the fairway. The design details are sharp when it comes to the Timex Weekender Chrono, too.  The date feature and a chronograph that tracks down to 1/20th of a second are handy extra features, as is the INDIGLO nightlight. And stylistically? The Timex Weekender Chrono has all the chops you need when it comes to dressing for laidback spring style scenarios.

A casual BBQ spent wearing one of the best pairs of men’s shorts for spring and summer? Throw the Timex Weekender Chrono on alongside some classic Aviators and a short-sleeve henley. A casual day at the office works for the Weekender Chrono, too. Think a navy blazer, chinos and white sneakers — it’s as simple as that. And when you want to throw on that standby weekend uniform (a classic chambray shirt, dark denim and rugged suede chukkas), the Timex Weekender Chrono is there for you, buddy. The olive green NATO strap nods toward spring without going full-on floral (although I myself have a neat patterned watch strap from The Knottery — throwback!). At any rate, an olive NATO strap has real-life military heritage roots, plus a bit of versatile color to pair up with dark denim, classic chinos or chambray shorts. I’d certainly take the chance to wear the Timex Weekender Chrono as often as possible.

Is the Timex Weekender Chrono set to join your collection of Timex watches? Let me know in the comments! 

See Now, Buy Now: The Grayers Poindexter Sportcoat Is Your Go-Anywhere Spring Sportcoat

No crazy bells and whistles here, just a versatile sportcoat packed with classic design.

A brand like Grayers is one that comes up with plenty of frequency here on the blog. The Grayers Poindexter 3-Button Sportcoat is a perfect example of just exactly why that is. You want simple, easy-to-wear design? Yep. You want the kind of utility that transitions easily into spring? You got it. And you want an agreeable price for a sportcoat? The Poindexter Sportcoat has all your basics covered, and then some. It’s made with a rather unique blend of cotton and spandex, for one. If ever there was a jacket to grab and throw on as you head out the door in the morning, it’s surely the Poindexter Sportcoat. The three-button construction gives it a look and feel that’s a bit more casual — this is the type of jacket you could wear with jeans or chinos, and it’ll look equally at home. The Poindexter Sportcoat is also just a slightly different shade of blue from your average, dark navy sportcoat (although we here at The Style Guide are also big proponents of that style and versatility).

At any rate, it’s got plenty of benefits beyond just style. It’s also machine-washable, something you’re not getting from any other jacket in your closet (right?). Can you say “travel style”? Because that’s exactly what the Poindexter Sportcoat can provide — take this jacket, wear it with a white Oxford, dark blue denim and classic suede chukkas, and get ready to hit the road for a business trip or a weekend away. Seriously, it feels good (dare I say, cool?) to fly or travel via train when wearing a blazer — it’s the little details that make the difference. And when you want to look casual and cool, yet a bit more polished, in the late spring and early summer, the Poindexter Sportcoat can work equally well over your favorite T-shirt or polo. Add some chinos, some classic leather loafers and call it a day. Well, not exactly. Get out there and get work in style!

Are you a fan of the Grayers Poindexter 3-Button Sportcoat? Do you see it working for you this spring? 

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!