April 3, 2017April 3, 2017 by Beau H.

Online Shopping Picks: The Best Light Wash Denim to Buy For Spring

At least according to your Style Guide author, there aren’t many areas where a great pair of dark blue denim won’t fit in. Yet, as temperatures warm up and we start to get fully into spring, there’s just something that feels right about lightening up, letting go and …. dare I say it … shelving your sturdy selvedge denim in favor of slim light wash denim. OK, there — I said it. If you normally stick with inky blue dark denim, it’s going to feel a bit odd reaching for a pair that’s both lighter in weight and lighter in color. Rest assured, though –reaching for light wash denim doesn’t have to mean sacrificing style points, fit or affordability. In fact, swapping in light wash denim in place of dark blue denim is a style move that’s easy to pull off when paired with classic spring (or summer) essentials. Be it teaming a pair of light wash denim with your favorite leather jacket or rocking them alongside refined suede Chelsea boots and a marled henley, you still get nearly the same versatility compared to classic dark blue denim. If that sounds like something you’re interested in, I’ve got just the #menswear shopping list for you. Let me know what you think in the comments, and drop me a line on The Style Guide Facebook page if ever you’ve got a question.

#1. Nudie Jeans Grim Tim — $226

Style these with a dark navy blazer and a grey pocket tee for effortless cool and versatile style.

Right out of the gate, we’re recommending you go with a higher-than-average quality pair of denim — hence, the higher price tag. After all, if you’re only going to start with one pair of light wash denim, why not make it something eye-catching, unique and sharp, like the Grim Tim? Ya dig? These jeans are made from organic fibers and feature two percent stretch, in addition to a unique “Salty Summer” wash that’s practically begging to be worn on spring break or better yet, an upcoming summer road trip.

#2. Todd Snyder Made in L.A. Selvedge in Medium Indigo Wash — $248

Not your average pair of dark indigo denim, but not fully faded either — a happy medium from an outstanding designer.

Leave it to your favorite menswear designer — or rather, my favorite menswear designer — to craft a pair of light wash denim that actually toes the line between dark and light. This pair is an easy-to-wear, high-quality and yes, super-pricey way to dip your toes into the pool that is expertly faded denim. And while we all love a crisp pair of dark blue selvedge denim, a lighter wash is sometimes the way to go — and there’s no question that you could stil wear the Todd Snyder Medium Indigo Wash Selvedge with everything from a khaki blazer to a slim pocket tee.

#3. Abercrombie and Fitch Skinny Jeans in Light Wash — $78

A light wash and a slim fit from a quickly evolving brand — doesn’t get much better than that.

We’re back to what you might call a true pair of light wash denim for entry No. 3 in our latest Online Shopping Picks list. It should come as no surprise that as the menswear calendar continues to roll on, Abercrombie and Fitch gets better and better. From cold weather picks like the brand’s Chamois Shirt to spring-friendly pieces like these tailored light wash jeans, A&F really is turning into a one-stop shop. Know that they also offer Straight and Slim fits in a variety of denim washes — again, they’re a one-stop shop!

#4. Nudie Jeans Lean Dean — $200

The ideal pair of casual denim — slim and well-made.

As first seen in this site’s feature on how to dress for the NCAA Tournament, the Nudie Jeans Lean Dean makes an appearance on this list that’s rightfully deserved. Featuring unique design touches — like orange stitching and copper trims — this particular pair favors a less extreme wash than the Grim Tim, yet it’s still a striking pair of light wash denim in its own right. The Lean Dean also features one percent stretch and a tailored fit; try these guys with a slim black leather jacket for a bit of throwback style as you head to your next rock concert.

#5. Old Navy Built-In Flex Slim Jeans — $38

An affordable go-to if you want to try out light wash denim.

It’s hard to argue with a slim, well-fitting and nicely priced pair of denim from a reliable standby like Old Navy — right? The brand’s styling potential has improved markedly over the years, and if you want a pair of denim that works with a broken-in pocket tee or a casual polo, this is the pair for you. They’d also look just right atop classic chukka sneakers and, say, a tough leather jacket this spring. Again, you’re doing just fine if you pick these up.

Although at first it might feel odd trading in your trusty dark blue denim for light wash denim — as we discussed at the start of the post — it’s actually a style switch that can pay dividends. In terms of unique looks and easygoing wearability, light wash denim takes the cake. The lighter weight and lighter color are practically made for spring (and summer!), and you still get tremendous fit and excellent quality — particularly if you snag a pair like the lauded Nudie Jeans Grim Tim or the Nudie Jeans Lean Dean. Plus, plenty of affordability is in the mix, too — just look at the price point on that Old Navy denim. Now, narrowing down any list can be difficult, so I’d urge you to hit me up on Twitter if you need your questions on light wash denim answered. Until then, let’s prep for spring in style — shall we?

See you out there,

-Beau

March 29, 2017March 29, 2017 by Beau H.

Online Shopping Picks: The Best Men’s Transitional Footwear for Spring

Join us for the ride today as we kick off another Online Shopping Picks entry — if you’re looking for the best men’s transitional footwear for spring, you’re in luck. What exactly do we mean when we say transitional? Well, we — and by we, I mean me — aren’t exactly talking about rugged winter boots or even classic summer sneakers. No, today we’re talking footwear that’s a touch more durable than your average set of kicks — maybe they combine a few different elements, like the cut of a chukka and the materials of a sneaker (see: Exhibit A, the SeaVees Huckberry Chukka). Or maybe, they’re both slightly dressy and yet suited for casual wear. Better yet, they should be relatively durable and versatile for fighting spring rain and looking great at the same time. So, you’ll see a solid mix below, from sleek suede chukkas to durable sneaker-boots and everything in between. If you agree with these picks — and even if you don’t — join me over on The Style Guide Facebook page to pick up what should be a lively #menswear discussion.

#1. Beckett Simonon Laval Suede Chukka Boots in Chestnut — $199

Supremely stylish and water-resistant suede chukka boots — perfect.

I’ve been fortunate enough to test out some Beckett Simonon footwear across the past few months, namely during a fall weekend in New York City. And the good news is that the brand’s chukkas are sturdy, sleek and extremely stylish. Such is the case with the Laval Suede Chukka Boot in a handsome shade of Chestnut. Pre-order these now and wait for them to arrive, because I’d wager you’ll want to wear them with everything from slim light wash denim to chinos. Oh, and an even better perk? The water-resistant suede, fit for taking on inclement weather.

#2. SeaVees Mariner Boot in Navy or Olive — $149.98

A collaboration between SeaVees and Taylor Stitch, with very stylish results.

When it comes to talking transitional footwear, the Mariner Boot just might be the ideal pair to buy now — and wear very frequently when spring rains roll through. The end result of a collaboration between our pals at SeaVees and Taylor Stitch, the Mariner Boot features a British Ventile waterproof duck canvas upper for crucial spring protection. Plus, SeaVees’ signature herringbone tread outsole adds a nice dash of traction on wet streets, and the option to pick up either the Navy Mariner Boot or the Olive option bodes well for those of us who appreciate versatile footwear.

#3. AstorFlex Bitflex Chelsea Boot in Dark Khaki — $180

The combination of suede and a Chelsea boot silhouette is especially crisp for spring.

As seen in a Style Pick of the Week entry last fall, the Astorflex Bitflex Chelsea Boot has a lot going for it — it’s stylish and sustainably made, for one. And crucially, it combines both a relatively slim profile and a unique crepe rubber sole. Plus, who doesn’t love a great Chelsea boot? It’s an of-the-moment silhouette that’s transcended, well, trends, to become a footwear essential. And if you haven’t tried out a pair, this spring might be a good time to start. While they’re not water-resistant like the Beckett Simonon suede chukkas above, you still get nice quality & sharp looks.

#4. CLAE Hayward in Mojave Pig Suede — $100

Retro style meets functionality — waterproof suede and a neat silhouette.

The retro-style runner continues to have a moment in the menswear space — in other words, it’s simply an excellent-looking shoe style. If you love a great pair of sneakers, give the CLAE Hayward a look if you’re seeking a new way to shake up your spring footwear rotation. They’re certainly unique in both looks and functionality, incorporating waterproof suede with nylon side panels atop a crisp runner’s sole. Wear these guys with white jeans and a slim short-sleeve chambray shirt — plus a stylish denim jacket — on a breezy spring day, and you’re all set.

#5. OluKai Pahoa Boots in Black Seal/Brown — $200

Note the burnished leather, waxed laces and easily wearable design.

If you’re sensing a theme in this post — that of durable footwear that also looks sharp — then you’re right on the money. And the last entry on the list definitely falls underneath that umbrella. Comin’ at ya all the way from Hawaii, the OluKai Pahoa Boots feature some mixed-media design touches — note the contrasting upper and waxed cotton laces. What’s more, the footbed features EquilFit technology for comfort and performance. Not bad for a pair of leather chukka boots, ehh?

Honorable Mention: Thursday Boots Honey Suede Scout Chukka — $149

Crisp, clean and well-made — all for under $150. That’s what you get with Thursday Boots.

We’re bringing back the Honorable Mention category in these Online Shopping Picks posts, namely because it’s mighty tough to pick just five great pairs of stylish spring footwear. And when the final brand on the cut line is Thursday Boots, you can be darn sure we’ll give ’em a second look. Featuring a slick European-inspired silhouette and plenty of traction via a studded rubber outsole, these are dressy enough for the office and more than ready for Sunday brunch.

From start to finish, I hope you enjoyed this essential, excellent, even tremendous rundown of the best men’s transitional footwear for spring. Finding shoes that serve a purpose while providing comfort and functionality can sometimes be tricky — yet, plenty of brands are hitting that sweet spot quite nicely. From the water-resistant suede of the Laval Suede Chukka Boot to the toughness and on-point styling potential of the Mariner Boot, you’ve surely got options aplenty. If retro-inspired style is more your bag, grab the CLAE Hayward for a change, and I’d urge you not to pass up a pair of dressy-yet-versatile Chelsea boots (like the Astorflex Bitflex Chelsea Boot). Of course, who can resist yet another pair of suede chukkas, like the Thursday Boots Suede Scout Chukka? No one, that’s who. If you’ve got questions on how to style these boots or heck, if you should buy any of them, drop me a line via Twitter or in the comments below.

More importantly — stay stylish!

-Beau

March 22, 2017March 10, 2017 by Beau H.

Online Shopping Picks: The Best Spring Jackets to Buy This Season

Now that we’re flying through March and closing quickly on April, it’s high time to talk about the best spring jackets to buy this season — are ya with me? It’s always a relevant topic as all of us battle showers and blustery winds, plus the occasional spring road trip. So, what type of jacket to buy for those various pursuits? Well, the good news is there are plenty of excellent styles to pick up for all of us #menswear lovers — from a stylish denim jacket to an investment-worthy moto jacket, we’ve got ’em all covered. The key here is looking for a piece that exudes casual-but-crisp and versatile style — so, it’s kind of like shopping for a stylish, slim topcoat. After all, the best spring jackets can be layered up with everything from a marled henley to a slim Oxford, a knit tie and your favorite chinos. I’d wager you’re going to want to pick up more than a few of the below jackets — with that in mind, we’ve looked for a combination of affordability, quality and great looks. So, check out the latest Online Shopping Picks entry, fill up your shopping cart and join me on Twitter to keep the discussion going.

#1. Levi’s Trucker Jacket — $70

It’s tough to find a spring jacket more classic — and perhaps iconic — than this one.

We’re kicking off this men’s style roundup with a look at perhaps the most essential piece of outerwear in your closet this spring – the trusty denim jacket. Particularly when made by an iconic brand like Levi’s, the denim jacket combines casual cool with functionality. Layer it up over your favorite cotton plaid shirt with slim chinos in place of a blazer, use it as a casual jacket for weekend road trips, and give it a shot over a printed shirt and olive cargo pants. Don’t be afraid to try a lighter-to-medium wash like the one shown – team that bad boy with slim grey denim for rock-inspired style, too.

#2. Taylor Stitch Moto Jacket — $1,075

Quite possibly the best leather jacket on the market right now — hands-down.

Jacket No. 2 comes to us via the fine folks at Taylor Stitch … boy, it is something else. Now, before you send me a bewildered email calling out the investment-level price tag, bear with me. There might not be a better, more versatile or more durable leather jacket on the market. Based off a classic café racer design, you might recognize the same silhouette (the Taylor Stitch Whiskey Moto Jacket) from a past entry on this site – however, we’re sticking with the slick Black Moto Jacket for spring style that’s at once sharp and effective. The weight and construction mean you can wear it with everything from a crewneck tee to a short-sleeve chambray shirt and even an Oxford and knit tie. Pick up the Black Moto Jacket ASAP and let me know what you think.

#3. Bridge and Burn Northfork Woodland Jacket — $198

A combination of utilitarian function, toughness and great looks.

While a stylish leather jacket or a rugged denim jacket are always effective #menswear moves, there’s something to be said for reaching for a spring jacket with functionality top of mind. That’s what you get with the Northfork Woodland Jacket in a classic shade of olive green. The lightweight cotton makes it ideal for layering on chilly spring nights, and the plethora of pockets — say that five times fast — gives you plenty of space for your everyday carry on spring weekend adventures. Match this guy up with suede Chelsea boots and perhaps a pair of the best light wash denim for spring the next time you head to your local watering hole – trust me.

#4. Abercrombie & Fitch Bonded Mac Jacket — $99

A versatile overcoat that’s at once functional and stylish.

As we’ve written about often here at The Style Guide, Abercrombie & Fitch consistently continues to up it men’s style game. From surprisingly hard-wearing outerwear like this Bonded Mac Jacket to vintage-inspired layering pieces like the Abercrombie & Fitch Wool Shirt, each piece is injected with DNA from the brand’s illustrious past – yet it all feels very modern. This waterproof jacket gives you both a tailored, slim silhouette – ideal for wearing over a navy suit on weekdays – and go-anywhere versatility (equally perfect for matching up with slim sweatpants and sharp leather sneakers on weekend coffee runs).

#5. Iron and Resin Academy Bomber — $149.98

A sturdy bomber jacket — just the style you need this season.

If there’s one silhouette that’s stuck around the menswear world with no signs of stopping, it’s the bomber jacket. And if there’s one brand this spring that’s taking a rather unique approach to the style staple, it’s Iron and Resin. Known for its road-ready moto gear, the brand is offering the crisply designed Academy Bomber in a versatile colorway just in time for spring – bingo. Rock this one with navy chinos and brown leather loafers atop a classic chambray shirt for a mix of high-low style, and match it up with a marled short-sleeve henley and rugged dark blue denim for a little bit o’ Saturday night cool.

Honorable Mention: K-Way Claude Laminated Solid Jacket — $59.98

Nothing too fancy — just a basic, functional and subtly stylish windbreaker.

For all this talk of the benefits of owning a stylish moto jacket or a versatile bomber jacket, there are just some times when you need to stay dry in the rain and get from point A to point B. That’s where the K-Way Claude Laminated Solid Jacket enters the equation. It plays off the brand’s original mission – outfitting Frenchmen in the rain – and it does so at a great price. The Claude Jacket is effective and head-turning in its own way – it’s perfect for tossing on for a bike ride or an outdoor hike, then packing into, say, a heritage-quality leather weekender on spring road trips.

Now, am I encouraging you to go out and buy each and every one of these jackets? Maybe. Budget permitting. But in all seriousness, finding the right spring jacket boils down to your lifestyle – if you suit up frequently and need to fight the rain, a bonded mac jacket is going to be the way to go. If casual, crisp style is your thing, snag the Iron and Resin Academy Bomber. If you move quickly from place to place and want something simple and stylish, pick up the K-Way Claude Laminated Solid Jacket. And if you want a piece of outerwear that really can do it all, I’d highly recommend grabbing the Levi’s Trucker Jacket or the Taylor Stitch Moto Jacket – especially the Moto Jacket. I guarantee you certainly won’t be disappointed once you get past the price. Let’s not forget the benefits of owning a stylish utility jacket such as the one shown from our friends at Bridge and Burn. With all that being said, I hope you’re as excited to dress for spring in style as I am – let’s get out there and get to it!

Thanks for reading and stay stylish,

-Beau

March 21, 2017March 22, 2017 by Beau H.

#OOTD: How to Wear Your New Favorite Leather Jacket This Spring

Before we get too far ahead of ourselves — welcome back to another entry in our weekly #OOTD series. Before we dive in — perhaps you might be set on spring outerwear so far? If so, good for you — there’s no question we all need pieces like a tough waxed trucker jacket to wear this spring. However, there are absolutely other layering tools you should consider this season. Lucky for you, we’ve covered a lot of ground on layering in recent weeks, including the best way to wear a cardigan. Well now, we’re taking things a bit of a different direction — a slightly edgier direction, notably. Specifically, we’re dialing in the best way to wear a stylish leather jacket this spring. OK, OK … there are admittedly several great ways to wear an investment-level leather jacket for spring. But your Style Guide author sure digs the below combination — and it’s quite easy to love, what with the fact that it features the inimitable, one-of-a-kind Taylor Stitch Moto Jacket. How cool is this jacket? Well … the Moto Jacket could very well be the last leather jacket you ever buy. Enough with the theatrics, though — let’s get to the #OOTD. Scroll down below to see the full look, and catch my daily looks on Instagram if you need more inspiration. Oh, and you should follow me on Twitter if you want to keep up with my stream-of-conscious thoughts on men’s style. OK, away we go!

ootd-leather-jacket-grid

The Jacket: Taylor Stitch Moto Jacket, $1,075 — Recognize this bad boy? Of course you do — the Taylor Stitch Moto Jacket is known across the World Wide Web for its insane combination of quality, toughness and style. In short, it’s the perfect stylish leather jacket to buy right now — and wear a ton this season.

The Henley: Abercrombie & Fitch Short-Sleeve Henley in White, $25 — When a brand like Abercrombie & Fitch keeps churning out seasonal staples at great prices, it’s tough not to love ’em. Such is the case with your new favorite short-sleeve henley.

The Denim: Nudie Jeans Dude Dan Jean, $208 — Now, we’ll have a rundown of the best men’s light wash denim for spring coming up in the next few weeks. But for now, I’d urge you to pick up the slim, high-quality Nudie Jeans Dude Dan Jean from our great pals at Huckberry.

The Belt: Abercrombie & Fitch Woven Leather Belt, $44 — For all the talk of gaudy accessories being all the rage, sometimes, it pays off to keep things understated and casual. A textured leather belt is one way to do that.

The Chukka Boots: Astorflex Greenflex in Dark Khaki, $145 — If you’re not yet acquainted with the sustainable, stylish and unique work being done by Astorflex, I’d urge you to catch up. Maybe start by picking up the Astorflex Greenflex in Dark Khaki? Good job.

The Socks: Mack Weldon Performance Dress Socks, $24 — Did ya catch this site’s Mack Weldon review? Maybe not? Either way, Mack Weldon dress socks are just as worthy of your hard-earned dollars as the brand’s other gear.

The Watch: Marathon General Purpose Quartz Watch, $150 — When you’ve got leather jacket like the Taylor Stitch Moto Jacket, it’s best to let it do the talking. In this case, we’re sticking with a tough casual watch — enter the Marathon General Purpose Quartz Watch.

The Sunglasses: Fort Knocks Polarized Sunglasses, $30 — For a mix of retro style and plain old cool looks, you can’t beat the Fort Knocks Polarized Sunglasses. Plus, how outstanding is that price?

And that’s a wrap for this week’s #OOTD — have any new ideas on how to wear your new favorite leather jacket? I sure hope so. I know I’ll be coveting the Taylor Stitch Moto Jacket for a long, long time — maybe you’re in the same boat? But the point is, there’s really no wrong way to wear an outstanding leather jacket like the Moto Jacket — particularly if you pair it with a rugged short-sleeve henley and crisp spring style essentials like the slim, slightly edgy Nudie Jeans Dude Dan Jean and a sustainable pair of chukkas like the Astorflex Greenflex in Dark Khaki. And it always helps to finish off a look with durable accessories in mind — that’s where the Marathon General Purpose Quartz Watch and the Fort Knocks Polarized Sunglasses enter the equation. Alright, all ready to go? Enjoy the day and check back tomorrow for more great men’s style content on the blog.

Shop on and stay stylish,

-Beau

March 18, 2017March 18, 2017 by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: SeaVees Mariner Boot

A stylish collaboration between SeaVees and Taylor Stitch resulting in a standout pair of spring footwear.

Just when you thought you couldn’t be more ready for spring and summer the weather shifts gears — right? Maybe the forecast calls for breezy rain, or colder-than-expected seasonal temperatures — in any case, consider the SeaVees Mariner Boot your new transitional footwear go-to. In that tricky in-between time where you’ve stowed away your rugged winter boots but have yet to break out classic white sneakers, you need footwear that blends functionality and versatile. Again, that means you need the SeaVees Mariner Boot. It’s the latest in a slew of excellent seasonal gear released by Style Guide favorites Taylor Stitch . From the winter-ready Maritime Submariner’s Jacket to the always-essential Everyday Chambray Shirt, the brand is a powerhouse when it comes to crafting tough, stylish, durable and timeless men’s style essentials. We can’t get enough of ’em here on The Style Guide (and by we, I mean myself). At any rate, it helps that Taylor Stitch teamed up with another Style Guide-approved brand on the Mariner Boot. Yessir, they’ve enlisted the help of SeaVees, another brand that embodies California cool and classic style. The result is a pair of footwear that looks great and performs admirably — that goes for whether you pick up the Navy Mariner’Boot or the Olive Mariner Boot shown here. Just why exactly do you need the Mariner Boot so badly? That’s easy, folks.

Olive and black makes a sharp combo for all sorts of spring style situations.

We’ve already talked about transitional spring style, and these high-top sneakers embody that spirit perfectly in terms of durability and great looks. Starting with the use of British Ventile waterproof duck canvas in the upper, the SeaVees Mariner Boot might be one of the tougher pairs of spring kicks on the market — they can certainly handle dressing for a rainy spring day, and then some. Plus, the natural gum rubber sole on the SeaVees Mariner Boot features a SeaVees signature touch — a herringbone grip outsole for extra (wait for it)… grip. Inside of the shoe, the two brands added a cotton canvas lining for extra comfort and even greater durability; the toughness of these shoes is only reinforced by the brass eyelets and nylon lacing. Seriously, there’s no stopping these kicks. Wear the SeaVees Mariner Boot with a your favorite pair of dark denim and a slim crewneck sweatshirt on the weekend, pair ’em up with a classic navy blazer and slim khaki chinos at the office, and definitely bring them on your next road trip — just don’t forget a timeless leather weekender, ehh? You could even pair them up with an upgraded pair of stylish slim sweatpants for quick weekend outings — they’re that versatile. And there’s no question that you get an agreeable price and great value when it comes to the Mariner Boot, too: Under $180 is a heck of a deal when you consider that the Mariner Boot is part boot, part sneaker and supremely stylish and tough all the way around. Alright, are you sold yet? Don’t take my word for it — pick them up ASAP via our good friends at Huckberry.

Alright then — that’s another Style Pick of the Week in the bag! Good luck out there and fight the good fight.

-Beau

March 11, 2017March 2, 2017 by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Huckberry Combat B33 GMT Watch

An eye-catching watch with durable, tough specs and made-in-America construction.

Who needs a new casual watch for spring? You, my friend? Perhaps. If so, the Huckberry Combat B33 GMT Watch just might be the timepiece you’re going to want to pick up — and wear as much as you can. You might recognize it from this site’s feature on what to wear for the polar vortex, but you should absolutely consider this timepiece for the warmer spring months. That goes for all sorts of style situations, too — from dressing for a rainy spring weekend to wearing your new favorite polo in style, there’s little that this watch can’t do. And as we often talk about here on The Style Guide, it’s worth paying attention to the small things — say, the type of watch you’ve got on your wrist. Finding the right casual timepiece can be somewhat tricky, especially if you’re just building a watch collection. If you go too far down the road in terms of a rugged, functional timepiece, you might end up with a runner’s watch — to be worn only when, y’know, running. And on the other hand, it’s easy to throw a lot of money out the window in a hurry if you’re after, say, a reliable dive watch like the one worn by James Bond. So, the Combat B33 GMT hits all the right marks. For starters, it’s produced exclusively by Lum-Tec for our pals at Huckberry — in that regard, it’s a partnership that merges the best of high-quality production with impeccable casual style. The Combat B33 GMT is field-tested extensively, designed in San Francisco, and packed with reliable specs that you’re going to love — I hope?

Between the NATO strap and the stainless steel case, this watch can handle quite a bit.

Clocking in at 43mm, the case diameter is beefy and substantial, yet not overly large. The stainless steel construction is what you want in a watch that’s going to take a beating — I’d wear this timepiece to summer music festivals, with stylish beach gear and certainly when dressing for a spring bar crawl. With water resistance functionality up to 650 feet, you can even take it for a swim. The crisply designed face is built for more than just regular excursions, though — the GMT hand allows you to set a second time zone, and the Super-Luminova material on the Huckberry Combat B33 GMT ensures you never lose sight of that dial. But again, why this particular watch if you already own a casual NATO strap watch like the Timex x Todd Snyder Mod Watch?

Well, it definitely pays to have a well-rounded watch collection. And I’d wager that there’s not a timepiece in your arsenal that’s designed, assembled and tested in the good old U.S. of A. Plus, you’re really getting two watches for the price of one — the Combat B33 GMT comes with both a durable black slip-through nylon NATO strap and a brown leather slip-through strap. The leather strap makes the Combat B33 GMT the type of watch you could wear to the office with a slim light blue polo and classic khaki chinos for a seriously stylish Casual Friday look. Then, when it’s time to hit up happy hour, there’s no need to worry about taking off your watch as you handle a few pitchers of craft beer — ehh? If all of that sounds good to you, pick up the Huckberry Combat B33 GMT Watch and wear it with warm-weather staples like a stylish short-sleeve chambray shirt and khaki shorts just as soon as you can.

Enjoy the transition to spring and have a great weekend,

-Beau

Get the Huckberry Combat B33 GMT Watch now via Huckberry.

March 4, 2017March 5, 2017 by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Huckberry Explorer’s Shirt

Available in a plethora of colors and made with durability, style and toughness in mind — the Explorer’s Shirt from Huckberry and Taylor Stitch.

Although we’re eagerly looking toward spring here at The Style Guide, we aren’t quite there yet — and that’s why you’ll need the Huckberry Explorer’s Shirt these next few weeks. While it’s tempting to stow away your tough winter accessories in favor of lighter fare, transitional spring style still calls for gear that’s a little heartier than normal. There’s certainly a chance of rain, and heck …. a few snow flurries? Sorry, folks … had to go there. With that being said, the Huckberry Explorer’s Shirt has a lot of great things going for it — namely, it’s made in tandem by Huckberry and a near-weekly Style Guide favorite, Taylor Stitch. That the two companies share office space is fitting, because they both do an admirable job carrying the flag for high-quality, rugged and timeless #menswear. And as you’ve seen from this site’s Style Pick of the Week series, there’s a lot that Taylor Stitch does well — including stellar shirting options like the Crater Shirt. In this instance, the Explorer’s Shirt kicks things up a notch, starting with the durable and tough stone-washed duck canvas exterior — that makes it one of the best men’s overshirts you can buy, and simultaneously, one of the best men’s workshirts to buy, too. Ya dig? Of course, with all great gear from Taylor Stitch and Huckberry, there are plenty of extra touches that make it worth buying (especially in the versatile and unique Natural colorway seen here). Keep in mind that the Explorer’s Shirt is also available in a plethora of colors, from a handsome Rust Gold to a faded Dusty Blue. Regardless of shirt color, you get tremendous quality any way you slice it.

Tough brass buttons, a clean fit and sturdy fabric make this shirt a winner.

Heck, even the buttons on the Explorer’s Shirt are sturdy — made with brass, they’re a vintage-inspired touch that lends this piece more of a shirt-jacket feel than something like a classic chambray shirt. In that case, you could absolutely layer the Huckberry Explorer’s Shirt with just about any combo you can dream up, be it over a timeless Oxford shirt or your favorite long-sleeve henley (particularly a henley — talk about a one-two combo ideal for weekend style). And because both brands build their gear with paramount functionality in mind, the Huckberry Explorer’s Shirt features an inner chest pocket with a neat, screen-printed map design and enough space for your everyday carry. Heck, Huckberry even notes that you can treat the shirt with Otterwax to make it weatherproof — learn more here. When you can get a shirt that doubles as a jacket, fights off the rain, layers up easily and stands out stylishly with everything from slim dark denim to classic chinos, you should absolutely buy it. From there, wear the Explorer’s Shirt plenty — ideally with other Taylor Stitch gear, yes?

Would you buy the Huckberry Explorer’s Shirt? How would you style it?

March 1, 2017March 3, 2017 by Beau H.

Style Suggestion: How to Wear Your New Favorite Polo

We try to keep things moving forward when it comes to our Style Suggestion series on the blog. That is, mixing up situations — including things like how to dress for winter travel — and certain occasions, like dressing for the polar vortex. Now that we’ve reached the start of March (pretty wild in and of itself), it’s time to turn our eyes toward spring style. We’re not necessarily all the way out of chilly weather yet, and rain likely beckons ahead in the forecast. But when you want to lighten things up, how do you do so in a way that’s crisp and yet easily wearable through the season? Easy. A long-sleeve polo. It’s got some “geezer style” connotations, but the long-sleeve polo is also a classic menswear piece worn with casual cool (and James Bond in “Casino Royale” even dons a navy long-sleeve rugby shirt). Luckily for us, we’re taking a great long-sleeve polo from Paul Fredrick and styling it accordingly today for spring weather. Read on, shop away and join us on Instagram and Twitter for plenty o’ daily #menswear inspiration.

The Long-Sleeve Polo: Paul Fredrick Silk, Cotton and Cashmere Polo Pullover — $79.50 [Get 20 percent off and free shipping on any order with code ‘IMSCBH’].

A refined layering option made from luxurious fabric.

Part polo, part pullover and made with quite the luxurious blend of silk, cotton and cashmere, this Paul Fredrick long-sleeve polo is the way to go if you want breathability, comfort and style fit for spring weather. The navy colorway calls to mind what Bond himself wore, and it’s the right pick here in that it’s not too bright or loud — perfect for all types of style scenarios, including dressing for Sunday brunch. Plus, you can pick up it up for 20 percent off using the code above.

The Jacket: Abercrombie & Fitch Box Quilted Jacket — $130

A neat new addition to your spring outerwear rotation.

Just as critical as your base or mid-layer — perhaps moreso — is a stylish spring jacket. As with its fall and winter offerings (like the rugged, essential Abercrombie & Fitch Chamois Shirt), the brand continues to build on its reputation as an essential company for today’s well-dressed guy. With unique takes on outerwear like the Box Quilted Jacket

you get a different look combined with comfort (the fleece lining helps with that). What’s more, the neat olive color is a nice way to transition from the darker hues of winter into the lighter shades of spring and summer.

The Undershirt: Mack Weldon 18-Hour Jersey V-Neck Undershirt — $32

Nothing fancy or overpriced about a comfortable undershirt.

While you could use the pullover in a fashion similar to a V-neck sweater and layer up with a classic chambray shirt, it’s visually interesting enough on its own to merit the use of a simple (yet well-made) Mack Weldon undershirt. Call your Style Guide author crazy, but from the brand’s merino long-sleeve tees to the neat Mack Weldon Vesper Polo, these guys are a brand to know — and wear any time you need a comfortable base layer.

The Chinos: Abercrombie & Fitch Classic Straight Chino Pants — $68

Yet another item to pick up from a brand that’s getting better and better.

If you’re more likely to think of baggy cargo shorts — or pants — when you think of A&F than slim chinos, think again. The brand’s revamped focus centers around all manner of menswear staples, including what could be your new favorite pair of chinos (seriously — you just haven’t bought ’em yet). They feature what looks to be a straight, yet relatively tailored, cut. And the use of cotton and elastane should give them some comfortable stretch. Yes indeed, grab a stylish leather weekender bag and wear these bad boys when you hit the road this spring.

The Boots: Astorflex Bitflex Chelsea Boots — $180

An ethically made, great-looking Chelsea boot for a casual style situation.

If these boots ring any bells, that’s great — crucially, they were the footwear pick of choice in a feature on how to layer up in style this winter. Casual leather chukka boots would also be a fine style move here — particularly if it’s rainy and you want to keep that suede safe — but these Bitflex Chelsea Boots offer up both spring-appropriate texture and a bit of rich color. Don’t forget that Chelsea boots add a decidedly modern vibe to the more classic parts of this outfit (including khaki chinos and a long-sleeve polo).

The Watch:Tanner Goods Martenero Ace Automatic Watch — $549.98

A revamp of the pilot’s watch, with a tough leather strap for good measure.

What do you get when the heritage leather goods makers at Tanner Goods decide to update a stunning pilot’s watch? Well, you get the Martenero Ace Automatic Watch, another recent #OOTD accessory pick. It’s definitely got a lot going for it — and for that investment-worthy price, you can be darn sure I’m recommending you wear it as much as you can. Featuring a natural shell Cordovan strap that’ll age wonderfully each time you wear it, the Desert Tan face on the Ace Automatic Watch is also bold and unique. In short, the perfect timepiece for this outfit.

The Socks: CHUP Prairie Socks — $35 [Check out the full run of CHUP socks while we’re here].

Not your everyday socks — and not your everyday price for a pair, either.

We never let stylish socks slide here at the blog — especially if they’re a pricey, yet well-made, pair like these CHUP Prairie Socks. The design offers a shot of unique color and pattern, and you get handmade quality via a wearable cotton blend. As always, your socks shouldn’t be an area you overlook.

The Sunglasses: Sunski Dipseas Sunglasses — $44.98

Different than your everyday aviators, but just as necessary in your rotation.

Hey, recognize that accessory? Stylish men’s sunglasses? Sure you do. We certainly haven’t hit full-on beach weather as of yet, but we’ll get there soon (hopefully). And you know what else is great? Well, the Dipseas Sunglasses from our friends at Sunski are unique, effective and affordably priced. They’re just the type of piece to offset a more casual look in a cool fashion — and that’s how every outfit should be finished off, right?

If you’re now amped and fully ready to step out in classic spring style, you’re not alone. From a sharp, revamped piece of spring outerwear to your new favorite long-sleeve polo and classic Mack Weldon basics, this outfit has something for everyone. Essential chinos provide classic contrast alongside the more modern Bitflex Chelsea Boots, and before you know it, you’ll be breaking out a neat pair of Dipseas Sunglasses (trust me on that). And as I said before, a durable and tough watch like the Martenero Ace Automatic Watch ties everything together very nicely indeed. Good luck getting ready for spring, and let me know what you think of today’s outfit in the comments.

See you around and stay stylish,

-Beau

March 25, 2016March 24, 2016 by Beau H.

The Friday Read: The State of #Menswear, Batman v. Superman and Spring Style

Editor’s note: Expect these posts once a week on Fridays — consider this a jumpstart on reading for your weekend downtime. Expect a mix of style and non-style content. For more entries, click here.

As things stood going into last week’s Friday Read, I was quite hoping we’d have the chance to talk some Michigan State basketball here on the blog. But. Well. We’ll leave it at that. At any rate, it was still fun to host my great friend Stephen Brooks he covered Notre Dame in the NCAA Tournament, and all that activity played into a big week itself. On Tuesday, I had the pleasure of catching up with the four brothers behind Brothers & Craft — Zac, Clay, Kirk and Matt –who happened to be in NYC for a whirlwind trip as they launched their next special project (check out their Instagram for more stylish things ahead!). They’re a great group of guys, generous with their time, fun to be around and a real pleasure to know. I was lucky enough to be able to hop down to the opening of the Daniel Wellington SoHo pop-up shop that very same night. And on that note, look for more details on Daniel Wellington’s new line tomorrow on the blog! As the week rolled along, it was even more thrilling (if that’s possible!) to attend the prestigious WWD Menswear Summit on behalf of my day job at Coyne PR — it was an excellent look at the state of the industry itself, and covered everything from social media to retail trends to designer outlooks for the next few years. What a week — it really is extraordinary to get continually greater opportunities so frequently. It’s busy, to say the least — and given all of that, I need a bit of a nap this weekend. Maybe before you settle down, take a glimpse at the below #menswear reads. Enjoy!

Have you been following any other brackets out there besides March Madness? Namely, any style brackets? The one put together by the team at Get Kempt moved into the Style Sweet Sixteen this week.
Ben Affleck and Henry Cavill have been hitting the road to promote the upcoming release of the much-hyped Batman v. Superman: Dawn of Justice flick — but have they been doing it in style? GQ.com investigates.
The massive trade show that is Baselworld just wrapped up this week, and Esquire.com offers up its drool-worthy list of the top watches from Baselworld that you should get on your wrist … now.
While this is neither a long read nor a style note, Lollapalooza announced a truly epic run of artists to celebrate its 25th anniversary, from LCD Soundsystem headlining to Lana Del Rey, Kurt Vile and stellar folks like DREAMERS and Arkells billed further down.

Is your shopping cart empty? Fill it up with some buying suggestions.

Grab a stylish spring sweater to layer up with for those chilly nights, in case you missed our latest Online Shopping Picks piece.
Stock up on more spring style essentials via my latest post at GearMoose.com — this one was a ton of fun to write!

April 18, 2014April 18, 2014 by Beau H.

Spring Style Essentials, Part 2: Shirts

A short-sleeve shirt (or a polo) can be the perfect style pick for spring and summer. Shirt by Express. Jeans by J. Crew. Sunglasses by Ralph Lauren.

When the weather warms up, some key style moves can make the transition from fall or winter to spring decidedly easier. In the shirting department, we’ve seen some critical trends pop up in recent months, especially the resurgence of the short-sleeved collared shirt. While that’s certainly a style move worth exploring, the first (and perhaps easiest) way to make the transition is with a simple polo shirt. That’s not to say that long-sleeve collared shirts should take a break permanently from your wardobe; rather, think of the polo as a worthy substitute on more days. It might bring to mind a bland uniform look, but even James Bond wears polos now. Although it’s an item most of us have had in our closet and worn for years, the biggest way to upgrade the look now revolves around some main keys, starting with fit and moving on to color.

With spring officially here, reach for a polo and matching shorts. Navy polo and shorts by J. Crew Stanton. Belt by Target Merona. Glasses by Burberry.

Think of the polo as a the warm-weather version of an Oxford cloth button-down.The polo is virtually fool-proof as a casual (or sharp) item when it comes to your top layer in terms of versatility — it can be worn to class, to work in a fairly casual environment, and out to dinner or drinks on a patio. But, what helps with versatility is fit. Retailers now are stocking slim-fit polo options at great prices by the dozen, and that’s exactly how the ideal polo should fit, even if you have some more bulk. The sleeves should hit about mid-bicep, and the fit through the torso should be clean — think minimal extra fabric bunching around the sides or waist.

Once you’ve nailed the fit, it’s a wise bet to experiment with color. The lighter, warmer weather of spring is the ideal time to work some more vibrant colors into your wardrobe — something like a crisp, clean white is a nice place to start, but unique shades of red and light blue are also fairly versatile additional colors to start with. And if the fit of the polo is right, experimenting with some pattern can be more easily done — take a look at the rest of the Michael Bastian X Uniqlo collaboration for some extremely competitively-priced patterned polos.

A slightly more unique take on light denim paired with the short-sleeve shirt. Canvas sneakers by Urban Outfitters.

Short-sleeved shirts also are another easy way to mix things up in your closet. The short-sleeved shirt has gained a bad reputation in recent years (think Dwight Schrute) but recent updates on the style are a far cry from that. Like the ideal polo, the short-sleeved collared shirt incorporates a slimmer fit through the sleeves and body. Picking a shirt with a bit of a pattern or stripe to it mixes up the bad stigma of the short-sleeve dress shirt even further (ASOS offers a wide variety of short sleeve shirts with patterns and prints at nice prices, to start). And with both the polo and the short-sleeve shirt, the possibilities for what you do with the rest of your outfit are pretty limitless also (as long as your bottom half matches nicely in terms of color with the top half). Dark denim is a nice anchor to any outfit, and in the spring and summer, lightwash denim (as pictured above) works well with various neutral shades. Shorts in neutral colors (think a dark or light khaki) downplay the loudness of a printed shirt or polo, too.

So the next time you reach for a long-sleeve shirt in the hot weather, turn instead to a short-sleeved variety, or a polo, with some color and pattern. In the right cut and style, it’ll keep you on trend and also sharp — just about all you can ask for from a piece of clothing.

The Style Guide

All the best men's style essentials you need, every day.

Tag / spring style essentials

Online Shopping Picks: The Best Light Wash Denim to Buy For Spring

Online Shopping Picks: The Best Men’s Transitional Footwear for Spring

Online Shopping Picks: The Best Spring Jackets to Buy This Season

#OOTD: How to Wear Your New Favorite Leather Jacket This Spring

Style Pick of the Week: SeaVees Mariner Boot

Style Pick of the Week: Huckberry Combat B33 GMT Watch

Style Pick of the Week: Huckberry Explorer’s Shirt

Style Suggestion: How to Wear Your New Favorite Polo

The Friday Read: The State of #Menswear, Batman v. Superman and Spring Style

Spring Style Essentials, Part 2: Shirts