Tag / spring style essentials

by Beau H.

The List: These are the 10 Best Spring Style Essentials to Shop This May

Kicking things off today with a breezy-yet-functional, seasonal layer.

Is getting ready for a new season difficult or fun? Is it more enjoyable to wear your favorite style essentials, or pursue them? Well, seeing as it’s May, perhaps you’ve long been in pursuit of some seasonal wardrobe upgrades, and now … you’re ready to make it happen. We’re serving up the 10 best spring style essentials to make your wardrobe that much more fashionable this season. As I always say, there’s something for everyone in this edition of The List. Get acquainted now.

La Paz Baptista Shirt Jacket — $200

Pleasingly rugged and made to layer, this shirt jacket is a surefire spring style move.

There’s still the odd day where it can get a little breezy — this indigo shirt jacket is a natural go-between layer, and would wear perfectly with a white slub tee and slim tan chinos.Plus, it’s an able travel companion with enough room for your everyday carry essentials.

Proof 72-Hour Merino Tee — $68

The exceedingly comfortable, performance-friendly tee for all your spring pursuits.

To nicely complement your indigo shirt jacket, reach for the Proof 72-Hour Merino Tee, made to wick away sweat and perform all day long. The range of colors is more than agreeable, too. All in all, it could just be your new favorite T-shirt.

VANS Classic Slip-ons in True White — $50

A tried-and-true classic when it comes to your sneaker rotation.

If you’re looking for a classic pair of summer slip-ons, the kind you can wear for days on end without missing a beat, you could do worse than these VANS slip-ons in a white canvas that almost looks better scuffed up.
A.P.C. Washed New Standard Jeans — $220

A happy medium between inky blue denim and too-light jeans.

Searching for the right balance between full-on “Dad Jeans” and a heavy indigo pair of denim for allow? These A.P.C. Standard Jeans are a reliable classic, and assuredly one of the best pairs of light wash denim out there.

Billy Reid Marine Plaid Shirt — $148

The throwback-inspired short-sleeve shirt to wear as often as you can this spring.

Never underestimate the utility of a stylish short-sleeve shirt — especially the Billy Reid Marine Plaid Shirt. Wear this retro-inspired short-sleeve shirt under a blazer for a bit of “devil-may-care” work week style, then wear it out to your favorite patio bar on the weekend.

Bespoke Post Cantina Box — $45 (When Signing up for Bespoke Post)

The essentials to make some of the best fajitas you’ve ever had — guaranteed.

A traditional menswear staple? Not quite. Still necessary? Yes. In honor of the quickly approaching Cinco de Mayo holiday, serve up some sizzle of your own with the Bespoke Post Cantina Box, a perfect way to upgrade your skills in the kitchen.

Faherty Brand Ventura Shirt — $148

A seriously cool shirt you can wear to all your spring and summer happy hour festivities.

Want the perfect shirt for spring and summer? Something that’s laidback and casually cool, featuring some of the best fabric  (a lightweight twill) that I’ve seen? That’s the Faherty Brand Ventura Shirt.

Filson Tablet Briefcase — $275

The tough briefcase you just might use every single day.

Getting around efficiently and in style is critical no matter the season — for work trips and weekend getaways alike, the Filson Tablet Briefcase keeps this crucial piece of tech in fine form. The rest of the time, use it to carry your other travel essentials.

New Balance M998 Sneakers — $180

A classic pair of sneakers that just so happen to be made in America.

Retro sneakers really are all the rage these days, but here’s the thing: New Balance has been making sneakers like the M998 for years now. Maybe it’s time you got a pair and rocked ’em with rolled chinos and a navy tee?

UNIMATIC U3-A Watch — $615

The hard-wearing watch to upgrade your spring style instantly.

Spring and summer adventures call for a ridiculously dependable dive watch that stands up whatever you throw at it. The UNIMATIC U3-A Watch is that watch, complete with 300 meters of waterproof functionality.

 

So, now that we’re through with today’s rundown of the best new gear for spring, which entry did you like the best? Maybe, with Cinco de Mayo on the way, you’ll be picking up the Bespoke Post Cantina Box? Or perhaps, you’ll be looking to snag a pair of the A.P.C. Standard Jeans? Whatever you do, do it in style. Thanks for reading!

by Beau H.

#OOTD: My Guide to Wearing a Polo Shirt This Summer

Perhaps thinking of a polo shirt conjures images of baggy, overly stuffy iterations you wore back in middle school or high school — rest assured, that’s not the classic navy polo we’re talking about today. No sir, today’s #OOTD on how to wear a polo shirt this summer is all business, and we mean that in the best way possible. The key with taking on the polo in these trying modern times starts with finding one that’s versatile, functional & stylish — decidedly not like the first polo you ever wore. Take the Proof Merino 72-Hour Polo as seen below, a performance-minded polo that really doesn’t look all that different from the navy polo worn by James Bond back in the day. We’re mixing and matching it with other rugged, casual-yet-sharp pieces, from a washed denim jacket to stylish canvas slip-ons, all the better to help you “choose your own adventure,” as it were. What I’m trying to say is, you could reasonably wear this classic navy polo to the office and to happy hour during the week, or else out to a sharp weekend brunch or a round of afternoon cocktails. All these pieces work together in harmony (I think), so that’s to be applauded. See how it all shakes out below.

 

 

There’s the normal way to wear your polo shirt, and then there’s THIS way.

  • The Polo Shirt: Proof 72-Hour Merino Polo, $78 — Think of the classic navy polo, and then think of a merino polo that’s made to wear for travel and a day at the office, all thanks to its breathability and performance.
  • The Jacket: Levi’s Trucker Jacket, $89.50 — Want to switch it up from your typical blazer or spring windbreaker? A rugged trucker jacket from Levi’s — in a spring-friendly light wash — is the way to go. Perfect for lightweight layering.
  • The Chinos: Flint and Tinder Cool Chinos, $98 — Shake off the overly preppy connotations of the polo-chinos combo by reaching for these slim chinos from our pals at Flint and Tinder.
  • The Sneakers: Vulcanizer Canvas Slip-Ons, $125 — Another way to shake up this outfit? Throw in some stylish slip-on sneakers that you can slide right on (use this foot powder from Duke Cannon before and after).
  • The Watch: Uniform Wares Rose Gold Dress Watch, $700 — Am I recommending you splurge on this stylish leather watch? I am, precisely because Uniform Wares has succeeded in making one that’s both casual and sharp — like this #OOTD.
  • The Sunglasses: Garrett Leight Co. Brooks 47, $340 — In keeping the whole theme of “casual-cool” going, reach for these Garrett Leight sunglasses, probably some of the sharpest on the market.
  • The Pomade: O’Doud’s Standard Pomade, $12.98 — Because this is the type of outfit that can pull double-duty at the office and on the weekend, reach for some of the best men’s pomade to complement the sharp styling accordingly.
  • The Grooming Essential: Ursa Major Daily Force Field SPF, $54 — Among men’s grooming tips you can’t go without, using a daily moisturizer or sunscreen like Ursa Major’s Daily Force Field is seriously underrated  (but critical).

So, what’s the verdict on this #OOTD? Where would you wear it? And do you think all the parts work together quite as nicely as I do? The idea of taking something as simple as a merino polo is only amplified by the equally versatile pieces with which you pair it.. Add a rugged trucker jacket from Levi’s, as we’ve done here, and you’re good to go to the office or the bar (swap in a blazer if you feel so inclined). On that same note, slim chinos in a unique shade of Rust shake off the preppy vibes one gets from a polo and chinos typically. You’re also getting unique style and plenty of comfort from stylish slip-on sneakers — another change of pace from leather loafers or brown brogues . But remember: Don’t forget to use this foot powder from Duke Cannon before and after. The beauty of a go-anywhere ensemble like this one has to be the fact that a stylish leather watch can dress it up as you  please — the Uniform Wares watch showcased above is seriously sharp and office-ready, should your day require it. Particularly if you find yourself hanging out on a rooftop patio for hours on end, you’re going to need the Garrett Leight sunglasses seen above, and you’re particularly going to be thankful you used Ursa Major’s Daily Force Field before heading out the door.  The last step in this equation? Nailing the perfect haircut with some of the best men’s pomade your money can buy. Do you feel ready to take on spring and summer yet? One can only hope.

 

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Capalbio Canvas Shirt Jacket

The rough-and-tumble shirt jacket that’s going to change your spring wardrobe.

If you’ve been feeling like you still need to stock up on spring style essentials to really get the season going, then fear not — you’ve got plenty of time. In that case, it would beoove you to pick up the Capalbio Canvas Shirt Jacket, perhaps one of the best spring jackets that you’re apt to find right now. It’s certainly one of the more unique offerings on the market, blending old-school appeal with rugged versatility and functionality. To me, that makes it quite possibly the perfect spring jacket, as apt to wear with your favorite T-shirt as it is with a classic chambray shirt — but we’ll get to that in a second. Why is the Capalbio Canvas Shirt Jacket right for you? Plenty of reasons. It’s got quite the spirited story to it, with roots that date back to northern Italy — that’s heritage you can’t find in any old store. The Capalbio Canvas Shirt Jacket is a modern update of the type of shirt jacket worn by ranchers, so you know it’s got the chops in terms of toughness and utility.

SHOP: The Capalbio Canvas Shirt Jacket 

Made from 100 percent cotton and featuring a plethora of pockets for your everyday carry essentials, the Capalbio Canvas Shirt Jacket simply doesn’t mess around. It’s that old-school functionality that should come in handy these days, even if you’re only wearing it to grab coffee versus doing real-life work on the ranch.

The surprisingly versatile shirt jacket you need for spring.

Plus, it’s just plain great to have options in your outerwear rotation, and the Capalbio Canvas Shirt Jacket is innovative enough to take up a spot in your closet. It can be used as a stand-in for your spring blazer when worn with light wash jeans and white Oxford shirt — just add in some brown leather brogues — and it can also function as a more rugged top layer when teamed with olive chinos, and a short-sleeve henley. Either way, you should be able to layer the Capalbio Canvas Shirt Jacket with ease — it’s the lightweight cotton construction that keeps it breathable and dependable for all-day wear. Heck, our friends at Huckberry even call the Capalbio Canvas Shirt Jacket the “Italian cowboy blazer.” How cool is that? You even get your pick of colors (I prefer the Terra Canvas iteration of this stylish shirt jacket) — not to mention a removable floral print liner. In summary, folks: There’s no more versatile jacket for spring than the Capalbio Canvas Shirt Jacket — that’s all there is to it.

SHOP: The Capalbio Canvas Shirt Jacket 

by Beau H.

The List: Upgrade Your Spring Wardrobe Right Now with the Best New Men’s Style Deals and Steals

This is the easygoing, laidback hoodie that’s actually quite the upgrade over your standard hoodie.

If at first it feels odd to see a hooded sweatshirt at the top of this post — it’s nearly May, after all — well, bear with me. Today’s list of men’s style essentials makes complete and total sense, I swear. The hoodie in question comes from Flint and Tinder, and it’s the perfect layer for breezy spring days and nights. In fact, most of the new men’s gear in today’s post serves a dual purpose: That of style AND functionality for spring.  With that in mind, we’re highlighting picks from the likes of Need Supply Co., a retailer that comes through with premium, slightly more elevated takes on men’s classics from brands like A.P.C.and Common Projects. Check it out yourself below.

Flint and Tinder French Terry Pullover Hoodie — $88

A new classic, made with care by Flint and Tinder.

As comfortable as can be, Flint and Tinder delivers with this sportswear-inspired French Terry Pullover Hoodie. It’s got the potential to be your new favorite hooded sweatshirt — it’s surprisingly stylish and also logo-free. That makes it crucial for grabbing beers with the guys or hanging at home.
Uniform Wares Rose Gold Leather Dress Watch — $700

An exceptional, highly stylish leather dress watch you can wear in any season.

The great thing about an investment-level watch — like this Uniform Wares watch — is the timeless style and versatility you get from it. This handsome leather dress watch is suitable in any season, but particularly this spring; try it with a khaki cotton suit or with your favorite T-shirt.

Red Wing Heritage Iron Ranger Boots — $319.99 

The toughest pair of quality boots your money can buy.

Is there ever a bad time to buy a rugged pair of leather boots from Red Wing Heritage? In short: No. Even though we’re rolling through spring toward summer, I’d wager you can definitely still get plenty of wear out of these Red Wing Iron Ranger Boots before the weather shifts.
A.P.C. Petit Standard Jeans — $210

A crisp, classic pair of slim blue denim from A.P.C.

Every guy needs a pair of dark blue slim denim, and A.P.C. is the way to go — these will only get better with age, and you can wear them with classic sneakers all spring and summer long.
Clarks Beeswax Wallabees — $135

A timeless classic on the men’s footwear front.

Simply put, the Clarks Wallabee are a truly timeless pair of men’s footwear — they’re quite well-suited for the breezy days of spring and summer, too. Wear them with slim tan chinos and your favorite chambray shirt for the perfect off-duty uniform.

Mott & Bow Liam Cotton-Wool Crew — $119

A classic, casual sweater from the makers of your favorite denim.

It’s true, folks — Mott & Bow, the makers of your favorite pair of denim, can also compete with the best of ’em when it comes to well-fitting, stylish sweaters, T-shirts and the like. The Liam Cotton-Wool Crew is the latest entry into the brand’s arsenal, made from Supima cotton and wool in a reverse-jersey knit for plenty of laidback comfort. The perfect spring sweater? Nearly.
Common Projects Original Achilles Low — $411
In looking through the digital archives of this site, I’m not sure I can say we’ve ever recommended Common Projects.  But in these trying times, stylish leather sneakers can pass for dress shoes when worn the right way (with slim tan chinos, a white Oxford and a navy blazer). With that in mind, the Common Project Achilles is an investment-worthy winner.
Status Audio BT One Wireless Bluetooth Headphones — $120

The coolest pair of Bluetooth headphones your money can buy.

Whenever I travel, I’ve simply got to bring along a pair of stylish Bluetooth headphones — kind of like the Status Audio BT One. No, exactly like these. They’re affordably priced, yet engineered to deliver crystal-clear sound without the hassle of cords.
Rogue Territory ISC Work Shirt — $210

A crisp, tough overshirt made for spring layering.

Remember: Just because it’s spring, doesn’t mean you should put away all your rugged overshirts just yet. This one from Rogue Territory makes for perfectly minimal styling atop a classic pocket tee. Speaking of classic pocket tees …
UNTUCKit Garment-Dyed Pocket Tee — $39

The classic pocket tee that’s comfortable enough to wear all summer.

I’d wager you know UNTUCKit from the brand’s commitment to making perfectly fitting casual shirts — and that same approach also extends to this super-soft garment-dyed pocket tee. It’s the ideal summer T-shirt when worn with tan chinos and white canvas sneakers, especially in the Ozeki Teal color, and it looks great … untucked. It’s the type of tee worth investing in.
VANS Authentic Sneakers in Black — $50

Stand out in subtle style with these classic sneakers.

There’s no way around it: VANS makes some of the best men’s sneakers out there, especially now that we’re properly getting into spring and summer. Wear these with your dark blue slim denim.
Jack Henry Clay Pomade — $22

A cool new way to upgrade your haircut this season.

So, you’ve got your new spring sweater and a pair of the best men’s sneakers all figured out. How about that haircut? There’s a new sheriff in town via the Jack Henry Clay Pomade. Old-school Western references aside, this pomade is the real deal, made with bentonite clay for extra texture and hold — casual, cool and no-fuss.’
R.M. Williams Black Yearling Comfort Turnout Boots — $495
Don’t be dissuaded by the price of these stylish Chelsea boots from R.M. Williams. For breezy spring days where you still need to look sharp, these can handle just about anything (including an after-work rock concert). That’s what you get when it comes to the best men’s boots for spring.
Foehn Apparel Collins Flannel Shirt — $99.95

A seriously unique, innovative flannel shirt.

Part classic flannel shirt, part all-day performance piece, Foehn Apparel has hit the nail on the head when it comes to a shirt that performs on the trail and the ridge as ably as it performs back in town. Comfortable fabric and two-way stretch set things apart here.
Topo Designs Global Shorts — $59

The versatile spring and summer shorts you can’t live without.

In the spirit of multi-faceted, versatile outdoor gear, let’s turn back toward Topo Designs (as previously covered on the blog). The Topo Designs Global Shorts are as the brand says, “go-anywhere” shorts you didn’t know you needed, featuring quick-drying, lightweight fabric and a range of outdoor-friendly colors, plus a hiking-friendly 7-inch inseam. Easy to pack for travel and even easier to wear when you get there.
New Republic Mason Suede Cap Toes — $85

Slightly edgy and slightly classic dress shoes for spring and summer.

Courtesy of the fine folks at The Menlo House comes an essential pair of men’s dress shoes from the Mark McNairy-led New Republic. Crisp, ever-so-slightly irreverent, and perfect to wear with light wash denim or grey chinos.
OK, now. Did you have one style essential that stood out from the crowd in today’s post? After all these years, I’m still coveting a rugged pair of leather boots from Red Wing Heritage — what about you? Let me know in the comments below, and thanks for reading!
by Beau H.

#OOTD: How to Dress for The Office Any Day This Spring

So, it’s the night (or the morning) before another day at the office, and there you stand … with nothing in your closet to wear. Well, those days are gone. Today’s #OOTD will take a deep dive into how to dress for the office this spring, particularly if you work in a  modern office — one where you might have to suit up for a big client meeting, but where you can get away with *gasp* slim dark denim and other polished, business-casual style staples the rest of the week. Now, we already talked about how to wear jeans to the office during fall and winter, so consider this a seasonal update. Take our picks below, from the classic Taylor Stitch Jack Shirt to a stylish spring blazer from Grayers — you see, it’s all about finding versatile pieces you can wear in more than one way. For instance, you could even wear the Taylor Stitch Jack Shirt all on its own, sleeves rolled, if need be. But that’s not why we’re here today. No sir, we’re telling you all about the best spring blazer and how to wear it, and it’s being paired up with stylish Chelsea boots, a pair of the aforementioned classic indigo denim, and other picks you might not think can work at the office … but absolutely do. How do you take on the challenge of stepping out in style for spring? Let me know on Twitter. Thanks for reading!

A mix of old and new favorites to get you ready for the office in style.

  • The Shirt: Taylor Stitch The Jack Shirt in White Reverse Jacquard, $125 — As essential for on-the-clock style as it is for off-duty relaxation, the collar roll of this classic shirt means you can wear it with or without a knit tie.
  • The Blazer: Grayers Newport Blazer, $195 — From the Dusty Olive color to the cotton-spandex blend, this could be the best spring blazer for your wardrobe.
  • The Office-Ready Denim: Taylor Stitch Slim Jeans in Sol Selvage, $178 — Believe it or not, you can wear jeans to the office — these slim Taylor Stitch jeans are a perfectly dressy inky blue color & made with cotton and linen.
  • The Boots: Taylor Stitch Ranch Boots, $348 — We’re not out of the woods in terms of spring weather yet, so these stylish Chelsea boots from Taylor Stitch blend form and function admirably — and they’re seriously sharp for the office.
  • The Watch: Carpenter Watches G4 Brooklyn Gent, $724.98 — A refined, classic leather watch like this handsome timepiece from Carpenter Watches never fails — especially at the office … oh, and don’t worry about matching up your leathers precisely.
  • The Belt: Taylor Stitch Stitched Belt in Whiskey Eagle, $88 — A perfectly rugged yet versatile, stylish leather belt from Taylor Stitch — it pairs nicely with those Taylor Stitch Ranch Boots, too.
  • The Grooming Essential: Duke Cannon Solid Cologne in Bourbon, $25 — Just one of many men’s grooming essentials you need from Duke Cannon, the Duke Cannon Solid Cologne is the right way to upgrade your scent for the office (it’s important!)
  • The Finishing Touch: Smartwool Merino Sport 150 Boxer Briefs, $30 — When is your underwear more than just underwear? When it’s made with possibly the world’s best fabric, Smartwool Merino. Perfect any day of the week.

Hopefully by now, you see the right way — or at least, one way — to make office dressing work for you. We’re not doing anything too fancy here, just pairing up a great spring shirt (theTaylor Stitch Jack Shirt) with a  stylish spring blazer from Grayers for no-fuss, no-frills style that’s still a cut above the rest. And keep in mind that when you step out in slim Taylor Stitch jeans in an inky indigo color, you’re absolultely going to be polished enough for the office — the difference is that rich, dark blue color. As ever, stylish Chelsea boots from Taylor Stitch strike the right balance between rugged, casual & perfect for the office — especially if it’s a breezy, rainy spring day. And your accessories are keeping things nice and sharp, too.  Take the office-ready nature of the stylish leather belt shown here — it’s as simple as that, and the combo looks even better when paired with a classic leather watch, specifically one that wears well at the office. The little details really do matter, which is why we’re recommending comfortable, durable Smartwool Merino boxer briefs, not to mention the right scent for any occasion — the Duke Cannon Solid Cologne in Bourbon. All told, this combo is the perfect way to dress for your office, no matter what day of the week. And again, yes … you can wear jeans to the office. Give it a try!

 

by Beau H.

The List: Upgrade Your Spring Style Right Now with the Best New Gear of the Week

Adidas

Get up and get going with lightweight spring sneakers like these from Adidas — read more below, of course.

What do you think of when you think of spring style essentials? Perhaps a return to lightweight, stylish sneakers is what you’ve got in mind? Well, we’re on the same page then — the Adidas Terrex Free Hiker is but one of the many new spring gear picks we’re featuring today, all with an eye toward helping you stay fashion-forward while on the go this season. Have any brands you’d like to see included in future editions of The List? Catch up with me on Twitter to let me know. Cheers.

Adidas Terrex Free Hiker — $200

Comfortable, stylish hiking sneakers you can wear all day.

The name of the game this spring has got to be stylish, functional sneakers — like the Adidas Terrex Free Hiker, a pair of performance-ready sneaker boots that you can wear on a day hike and a coffee date thereafter.

Flint and TInder 365 Pants in Slim or Straight — $98

One pant, two fits, plenty of color options — possibly the perfect spring pants.

Make no mistake, we sure do love the Flint and Tinder 365 Pants here on the blog (and by we, I mean … just me). The real kicker when it comes to these stylish spring pants? The versatility you get through two fits — the Slim Fit works for guys who prefer a lean silhouette, while the Flint and Tinder 365 Pants in Straight Fit are made for the fella who needs more room to move. The fabric is quality and the color choices are on-point, too.

Wills Cashmere Quarter Zip Mock — $218

A supremely luxurious cashmere zip for cool spring nights.

While we love a rugged crewneck sweatshirt as much as the next guy, a style like that won’t quite work every day. For when a breezy day turns into a breezy evening of rooftop cocktails (like an Old Fashioned?), the Wills Cashmere Quarter Zip works just fine.

Bespoke Post Downpour Box — $45 (When Signing up for Bespoke Post)

The seriously affordable rain jacket you’ll wear all spring.

Is there anywhere you can get an affordable rain jacket for way, way less than you’d expect? The short answer is: Yes! That place is Bespoke Post, and that affordable rain jacket comes courtesy of the Bespoke Post Downpour Box.

MWC Watches U.S. Infantry Watch — $210.98 (When On-Sale via Huckberry)

The hard-wearing field watch you can take anywhere this spring.

As the weather takes a turn for the better, reach for a durable, lightweight field watch that’s got a healthy dose of military inspiration baked right in. One of the best men’s field watches? Assuredly.

Onitsuka Tiger Basketball Sneakers — $90

High-top kicks that draw inspiration from a classic Onitsuka pair.

Onitsuka Tiger is a brand with strong heritage dating back decades — if you look at a pair of Onitsuka Tiger shoes, you know what you’re getting. But who knew they make subtly stylish, retro-inspired basketball sneakers in addition to colorful, cool runners? These are sure to be a spring favorite with light wash denim and a white Oxford shirt, and they’re made to celebrate the company’s 70th anniversary. Oh, and if you happen to be in NYC? Swing by the brand’s new store in SoHo.
Faherty Brand Slub Cotton Henley — $98

A casual-yet-tough henley in a spring-ready color.

We’ve featured the Faherty Brand Slub Cotton Henley in the past on this site, namely as we move from summer into fall. So, moving from winter into spring merits a return to this rugged cotton henley — in a spring-ready color — from Faherty Brand for easygoing layering.
Roark Revival Highway 133 Denim — $75

Pleasingly light, but not full-on “dad jeans.”

There’s a right way to shop for the best men’s denim this spring — you should be looking for a pair that’s got a lighter construction and a lighter wash.  That means you want a pair like the Roark Revival Highway 133 Denim, some of the best light wash jeans for men.
Birdwell Aloha Field Jacket — $299

The classic field jacket you can wear all spring and summer.

Just when you thought your rotation of the best men’s spring jackets was complete, along comes the absolutely stunning, essential Birdwell Aloha Field Jacket.  You surely recognize the Birdwell name from the brand’s excellent swimwear, but I’m here to tell you that you need to give the Aloha Field Jacket a shot. It’s made with ripstop poplin and finished off with a Hawaiian print from Hoffman Fabrics, the original importer of Hawiian prints.

Pendulux Nautilus Table Clock — $339.98

You don’t have a clock like this on your desk right now — do you?

I’m all for upgrading your living space in accordance with your personal style — on that note, the seriously cool Pendulux Nautilus Table Clock is but one way to give your office and home accents a shot in the arm for spring.

Helm Boots Muller Boots — $385

Tough leather boots you can wear all spring — yes, even with a khaki cotton suit.

You might recognize these stylish leather boots from my post last fall on the best boots to buy now — and they’re back again, because you could always use another pair of rugged cap toe boots to stomp through spring.
Herschel Supply Co.  Buckingham Backpack — $120

Turn to Herschel for a functional, mobile backpack.

Now, I’m not normally a big backpack guy — to say the very least. That being said, there are situations (like an early spring outdoor adventure!) where you need a functional, stylish backpack. This Herschel Supply Co. backpack gets it done for you.

 

So, to wrap up today’s post … are we feeling ready for spring yet? And which of the above picks will you be adding to your menswear wish list? For me, it’s got to be a pair of stylish leather boots from Helm Boots — that’s an easy pick, in my mind. Thanks for reading!

 

 

by Beau H.

#OOTD: The Best Way to Dress for a Laidback Spring Day

I’ll tell you this — we haven’t yet run ouf of spring style tips here on the blog. No, sir. Today, we turn to tried-and-true, much-loved brands like Taylor Stitch — and the Taylor Stitch Long Haul Jacket — to get you outfitted the right way for your next casual spring outing. I’m not talking about a post-work outing, but rather … a rare day all to yourself. Maybe spent shopping at an outdoor market, enjoying a long brunch, sipping on some afternoon beers at your favorite brewery … all those pursuits that seemed to go away for a while during the winter. This is the gear to wear to do, well, whatever you want (within reason — nobody’s hopping on a cross-country flight with just a few hours’ notice, are they? Are you?). At any rate, you’ll be able to pick out gear from essential men’s style brands you know and love. In addition to the rugged-yet-not-too-heavy Taylor Stitch Long Haul Jacket, we’ve also got the perfect spring T-shirt, a pair of slim black denim, and some classic high-top sneakers, all geared to help you look polished and put-together — yet casually cool. That’s what spring is all about, right? To get the full look, keep scrolling. And to see how I’m dressing for spring, you can always head to my Instagram. Cheers!

All the best men’s style essentials you should keep handy for a lovely spring day.

  • The Jacket: Taylor Stitch Long Haul Jacket in Beach Cloth, $228 — We’re assuming it’s going to be breezy out there, and the Taylor Stitch Long Haul Jacket has been uniquely revamped here for the season — use it as the centerpiece of this #OOTD. Quite possibly spring’s perfect jacket.
  • The Classic Tee: Flint and Tinder Heavyweight Slub Tee, $38 — You can really never fail with one of the best men’s T-shirts on the market (new from F&T), especially if you want to keep things quite casual.
  • The Slim Denim: Levi’s Made & Crafted 511 Slim Fit, $168 — A great pair of slim black jeans might be the key to nailing an off-duty fit — the Levi’s 511 Jeans are very, very tough to top.
  • The Sneakers: Colchester High Top Sneakers, $79.98 — Leave your dress shoes — and yes, even your rugged leather boots — at home, because these stylish high-top sneakers could become a new spring favorite.
  • The Stylish Leather Watch: Martenero Ace Watch, $595 — At once bold and subtle, this seriously cool watch from Martenero complements the rest of this #OOTD nicely.
  • The Belt: Line of Trade Veg-Tanned Leather Belt, $65 — Don’t get too fussy here — don’t worry about matching your new favorite leather watch and your belt precisely, leave the dress belt at home, and reach for this stylish casual belt instead.
  • The Everyday Carry: Bexar Goods Co. Vertical Card Wallet, $99.98 — A handsome, stylish leather wallet you’ll want to bring with you everywhere.
  • The Spring Essential: Duke Cannon News Anchor Grooming Tonic, $15 — For a slick, sharp, cool ‘do, this grooming tonic gives you what you need with just a bit of that “devil-may-care” edge for spring and summer.

When you’ve got the time and opportunity to customize a spring weekend day to your liking — a rarity, but they do happen — your ensemble should reflect that. So, for taking on spring breezes and giving you the space to layer up in a way that’s cool — not stuffy — the Taylor Stitch Long Haul Jacket is precisely the way to go. Heck, all those pockets mean this could be the one jacket to wear for a spring weekend (Think: Space for your phone charger AND keys!). It’ll also team nicely with the Flint and Tinder Heavy Slub Tee, again one of the best men’s T-shirts out there. And along with that, there’s long been no pair of jeans better suited for casual-yet-sharp style than the Levi’s 511 Jeans — just what the doctor ordered for looking cool and yet put-together. The same can be said for your footwear selection: It’s tough to go wrong with a pair of stylish high-top sneakers, all the better for keeping you comfortable and on-trend. We’re accessorizing here with an insanely rugged Martenero timepiece, helped along by a stylish casual belt — again, worry not about matching these two. Last but certainly not least, an outfit this excellent (in my opinion) calls for a stylish leather wallet that you should feel proud reaching for when out to dinner or drinks — and you should be proud of the way your hair looks, too. In that case, you can’t go wrong with Duke Cannon Grooming Tonic.  To me, this outfit has it all — what do you think? And where will it take you this spring?

by Beau H.

See Now, Buy Now: The ZDA Handball Trainers are the Most Unique Pair of Spring Sneakers on the Market

Sharp sneakers made using real retro design inspiration and construction.

On the hunt for a new pair of spring sneakers? Well then, the ZDA Handball Trainers are the way to go — and I’d wager they’re unlike anything else you’ve got in your spring sneaker rotation, no doubt about it. If you peruse the pages of The Style Guide on the regular, you’ll recognize that we love a good pair of vintage-inspired sneakers — throwback takes on the classic sneaker are all the rage right now, but some brands are doing it better than others. Case in point: The ZDA Handball Trainers, modeled after a real pair of Czechoslovakian sneakers (that spelling is a doozy) are some of the best sneakers to buy for spring and summer, what with their investment-level good looks and high-qualiity construction. The ZDA brand lay dormant for a number of years, but in 2016, a Japanese designer brought ’em back to life to make these stylish vintage sneakers — and we should all be glad the brand is back. It gets better, though: The ZDA Handball Trainers are made in Slovakia on the same last and in the same factory that first produced them … how wild is that!?

SHOP: The ZDA Handball Trainers

Yet another color option of these stylish, classic vintage sneakers.

Now, what’s the argument for picking up a pair of sneakers like the ZDA Handball Trainers, given that they could feasibly be worn for, well, actual handball? They’re a classic sneaker option, as ready to wear with slim light wash denim and a short-sleeve henley as they are with a garment-dyed Oxford shirt and classic tan chinos. The low profile also means you could feasibly wear the ZDA Handball Trainers to your laidback office with a navy cotton blazer, those same slim tan chinos, and perhaps a classic white polo. That’s the thing about a pair of vintage sneakers — they go with anything and everything, just like they were originally made to be worn. Make no mistake, the ZDA Handball Trainers look like nothing else in your closet, and that’s the perfect way to go about it.

SHOP: The ZDA Handball Trainers

by Beau H.

The List: Here are the Best New Gear Picks to Buy For the Month Ahead

We’re stepping fully into spring today with Taylor Stitch — and plenty of other men’s style essentials, of course.

It’s hard to believe that we’re into April already — how wild is that!? It’s fitting, then, that we’re telling you all about the best new men’s gear for the season today. To wit: We’ve got gear picks from some of my favorite brands, like Taylor Stitch (as seen above), and gear picks from top online sites, like Huckberry, too. You need a one-stop shop of sorts to revamp and refresh your men’s style essentials (and home goods, and camping gear), and that’s what this edition of The List sets out to do. Cheers!

Taylor Stitch Short-Sleeve California Shirt — $98

Your new go-to short-sleeve shirt.

Just as you would expect, Taylor Stitch delivers on the season’s must-have short-sleeve shirt. Echoing the fit of the iconic Taylor Stitch California Shirt but in a short-sleeve cut, this classic short-sleeve shirt is a new essential from the TS brand, made with breezy fabric that’ll keep you comfortable for more than a few rounds at your favorite brewery. It’s also made with an organic cotton blend and would wear nicely with, yes, Taylor Stitch chinos. Perfection.

Portuguese Flannel Linen Shirt — $115

Every guy needs a breezy, easy-to-wear linen shirt for spring and summer.

Linen shirting exudes laidback cool — and the best linen shirts, like this handsome, refined-yet-easygoing number from Portuguese Flannel, can even be worn underneath a classic khaki suit this spring and summer.

Levi’s Made & Crafted 501 Original Fit Denim — $148

Classic jeans for any season, including spring and summer.

While you might associate spring with light wash denim — which is perfectly fine! — the Levi’s Made & Crafted line is worth adding to your consideration set. That’s especially true given that these indigo jeans are an update to the classic Levi’s 501 Jeans.

SYMBOL Audio Unison 52″ Record Stand — $3,695

Simply a beautiful way to store your new favorite records — worth every penny.

OK, bear with me here. Maybe it’s the fact that I recently got a new record player, maybe it’s the fact that I’m coveting a unique way to store records … but the SYMBOL Audio Unison 52″ Record Stand is simply exquisite, the ultimate home audio upgrade if ever there was one.

Vessi Footwear Waterproof Knit Sneakers — $129 

Sporty, sleek, stylish spring sneakers.

If the name of the game is stylish spring sneakers — and it is — then the Vessi Footwear Waterproof Knit Sneakers are the way to go. Light as air and functional to boot, they’re the perfect travel sneakers this season.

Traveler Guitar Camper CS-10 Guitar — $254

Bring along this lightweight guitar to your next bonfire or camping trip.

While not what you might consider a traditional menswear pick, the aptly named Camper Guitar from Traveler Guitar is a heck of a neat camping essential to bring along on your next trip — and even if you can’t play, I guarantee someone else in your group can.

Pakt Pakt One 35-Liter Travel Bag — $325

A sharp, sleek bag made with rugged functionality.

When it comes to your everyday carry essentials, nothing but the best will do. And the Pakt Pakt One Travel Bag, although a little more minimal than the gear I feature on my Instagram, could just be your new go-to travel bag.

MWC Watches G-10 Watch — $172.98

The durable, lightweight spring field watch you need now.

Spring calls for evaluating your wrist game as well as the rest of your wardrobe, and if it’s a durable field watch you seek, turn toward the real thing with the MWC Watches G-10 Watch.

Fourlaps Relay Track Pants — $74.98

Sleek sweatpants to wear to the gym or to a casual coffee outing.

As we start a new season, I’d wager you’re going to want to get outside more — the comfortable, mobile Fourlaps Relay Track Pants (also available via Fourlaps.com) are the way to go. See, you can find functional and stylish sweatpants if you look long enough.

Proof 72-Hour Merino Long-Sleeve Henley — $98

A comfortable, mobile henley for breezy spring nights.

We’re moving our way through spring, and that means you can expect blustery days and breezy nights. This stylish long-sleeve henley from Proof should suit you well for travel and a spring bar crawl alike.

Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H4 Wireless Headphones — $300

These are the functional, sleek headphones to carry you through your commute.

There are the AirPods or regular headphones you pop in every day, and then there’s these high-quality headphones from Bang & Olufsen. Go on, treat yourself this spring.

Ekster Parliament Minimal Wallet + Tracker Card — $99.98

The functional wallet that provides security and durability, all in one.

Let’s keep talking about the everyday carry essentials you need for spring — for both security and style, this card tracker and wallet combo from Ekster gets the job done.

Proof Nova Series Insulated Vest — $73.98

The understated layer to go with all your spring outerwear.

If layering up with a vest is more apt to make you think of “Back to the Future” than anything else, think again — the Proof Nova Series Insulated Vest is the stylish spring layer you need right now. Wear it over a denim jacket if you wish (wink, wink).

Portuguese Flannel Pop Brick Shirt — $61.98

This is the printed shirt to shake up your spring style.

We’re back again with another highly stylish spring shirt from Portuguese Flannel — the seriously cool Pop Brick Shirt, to be more specific. Wear this printed short-sleeve shirt with light wash jeans and leather loafers to steal the show at your next spring backyard BBQ.

 

Alright, we’re all squared away with today’s edition of The List. Did any of the above gear picks catch your eye? If you want a functional spring layer, you can’t go wrong with the Proof Nova Series Insulated Vest. If you want a durable spring timepiece, you can’t go wrong with the MWC Watches G-10 Watch. And if you want to splurge a LOT? Well, you can’t go wrong with the  envy-inducing SYMBOL Audio Unison 52″ Record Stand. As always, thanks for reading!

 

 

 

by Beau H.

The List: Shop the Best New Men’s Style and Lifestyle Gear, from Denim to Meal Prep Kits

A unique offering to add into your purchasing consideration set.

We’re kicking things off a little differently today on the blog — while we’ll still be telling you all about the men’s style essentials to buy, we’re talking about what you should be cooking instead. In this case, we’re going to tell you about Sun Basket Meal Plans, an easy, fresh way to upgrade what you’re putting on your table every day. Making a fresh, delicious meal really is easy with these meal plans, as I’ve found out — and I’m certainly no gourmand. That being said, putting a bit more attention into the preparation of your food isn’t all that different than paying attention to the brands you shop and wear. With all that being said, let’s start this post off right — happy cooking (and shopping)!

Sun Basket Meal Plans — Starting at $71.94 for 3 Recipes/Week

Just one of the many ways in which Sun Basket Meal Plans can deliver excellent, quality meals on the daily.

We’re kicking things off on a different note than our usual menswear missives. OK, now I’m no gourmand, but I’ve been trying my hand at cooking better meals for myself quite a bit more recently — Sun Basket Meal Plans have been a HUGE help in that endeavor. And even if you fancy yourself a pro in the kitchen, it’s always neat (and fun!) to look at meal prep in a different way. Sun Basket Meal Plans really do offer an excellent opportunity for you to do just that, with plans that allow you to pick from dozens of healthy, fresh nutritious meal options via their various plans — all of which offer something for every type of diet and lifestyle. It’s seriously a gamechanger for me personally, and I think you’ll find the same. Plus, if you’re short on time or have lots of hungry mouths to feed, these easy-to-follow recipes, delivered in simple, fresh kits, are an amazing option.
Zodiac Grandville Watch — $495

A dependable, durable watch for any occasion.

Let’s get right back into menswear, shall we? After all, as you meal-plan with Sun Basket, you’re going to want to stay on time, right? The Zodiac Grandville Watch is a handsome, classic timepiece to wear with everything from slim faded denim and a white tee to a navy cotton suit.

Everlane Cotton Crew in Goldenrod — $20

A classic tee made with sustainability and style in mind.

With spring weather starting to roll in now — finally — a classic cotton tee is an essential to wear on its own (with slim grey chinos) or layered underneath a light wash denim jacket. The fact that this Everlane cotton tee is made with transparency and sustainability is also a bonus — and hey, it’s only $20.
Helm Boots Pablo Boots — $399

Sleek spring boots you didn’t know you needed.

Your rotation of stylish spring footwear could use a shot in the arm (the foot?). While it’s tough to argue with the versatility of, say, classic chukka boots, the Helm Boots Pablo Boots are an entirely unique, seriously cool pair of spring boots.
Madewell Men’s Sidewalk Low-Top Sneakers in Canvas — $68

A new favorite pair of spring sneakers, easily.

Clean, classic, made with tough canvas and done up in a white-gum rubber combo — that’s what you’re getting with the first-ever set of sneakers from Madewell Men’s (the full line launched last fall & was covered by yours truly on The Manual).
Deus Ex Machina Looper Cap — $28

The cool, laidback cap you’ll get plenty of wear out of on spring weekends.

Maybe it’s the return of spring weather, maybe it’s my inclination toward sitting on brewery patios, but the Deus Ex Machina Looper Cap could be just the perfect ballcap for spring and summer, what with its easygoing look and feel.
Flint and Tinder Supima AirKnit Long-Sleeve Polo — $68

Another stylish spring layer to add to your shoppping list now.

Spring layering is about more than just T-shirts and henleys (although we’ve got those for you, too). No sir, a stylish long-sleeve polo — like this one from Flint and Tinder — can prove to be a unique change of pace on a breezy day.
UNTUCKit Jamet Short-Sleeve Henley — $49

A performance-minded henley made for spring layering (or wearing on its own).

Super soft and cut with every bit the same quality and fit as UNTUCKit’s dress shirts (seriously, try one out sometime), the Jamet Short-Sleeve Henley is the rugged henley you need for every outdoor craft beer festival or concert this spring and summer.
Red Wing Heritage Weekender Chukka — $230

As essential a pair of chukka boots as you’re apt to find.

Rugged chukka boots — especially a pair from Red Wing Heritage — belong on your feet this spring, no doubt about it. This pair in particular has long been a favorite of the blog. And the Weekender Chukka wears especially well with light wash denim and a slim henley.
Everlane Chore Jacket in Pine — $88

A well-made chore jacket at an affordable price? Sign me up.

Everlane strikes again. What could be better than an affordable, durable chore jacket? Especially one from Everlane? For easygoing-yet-sharp spring layering, there’s not much that tops this radically transparent, seriously stylish spring jacket. Made with 100 percent cotton twill, this is the perfect weekend layer to wear with a rugged henley and slim indigo denim.
Relwen Micro-Thermo Popover — $168

A performance-minded popover that’s perfect for spring travel.

If you haven’t caught on by now, we’re all  about getting you layered up for spring the right way. Specifically, the Relwen Micro-Thermo Popover is casual, yet performance-ready, made for breezy spring mornings.
WP Standard Canvas Travel Tote — $289

The go-anywhere bag that’ll carry you through spring.

When winter finally starts to thaw out, I’d wager it’s time to gear up and hit the road — the WP Standard Canvas Travel Tote is potentially the perfect spring travel bag.

Outerknown S.E.A. Shirt in Pacific Treeline Stripe — $88

A sustainably made shirt that’s perfect for easygoing spring style.

You know Outerknown for the brand’s versatile, modern-yet-easygoing design and a paramount focus on sustainability. Take the S.E.A. Shirt (that stands for “Social & Environmental Accountability”). That means this subtly stylish shirt is made with midweight organic cotton, plus a cool stripe pattern and mother-of-pearl buttons. Perfect for wearing with light wash denim this spring. Speaking of …
Everlane Slim Denim in Mid Blue Wash — $68

Utterly classic light wash denim for spring from Everlane.

Yes, let’s make it three-for-three with men’s style essentials from Everlane. This pair of essential slim jeans feature all the right attributes, from the agreeable fit to the rich Mid Blue Wash (perfect for spring & summer) to the terrific price. Should you wear your Everlane chore jacket, pocket tee & denim all at once? I don’t see why not!
OK, so that was likely a lot to digest today in terms of spring style essentials, ehh? From slim Everlane denim to the perfect spring travel bag (my personal favorite) and easygoing spring shirting, there’s something for every taste up above — including Sun Basket Meal Plans! What do you think of today’s picks? Drop me a note in the comments below!