Tag / spring style

by Beau H.

#OOTD: How To Dress for a Breezy Spring Day Right Now

To me, it feels like we were just lacing up our rugged leather boots and gearing up for fall & winter, and yet, just as with the shifting tides of the ocean, the menswear world rolls on … and so here we are, talking new spring style essentials. The world is going pretty haywire right now, so all of these picks might not work right now as originally intended — but who said you don’t need great style at home? And who said you don’t need to gear up to get things done outside, too? More specifically, today’s look still provides a timely answer to that age-old question: “What do I wear this spring?” — and to be even more specific, what do I wear on a breezy spring day? The type of day that might unexpectedly bring rain & wind, yet you’ve still got to get out there? Today’s #OOTD steps right up and answers that question decisively, from the stylish rain jacket (via J. Crew) to the classic Blundstone boots that’ll help you navigate slick city streets and wet country roads in equal measure. The fact that the outfit ties in reliable standby pieces like a classic overshirt is a big positive, but rest assured, this is an outfit that’s still got some office-ready polish — that’s all owing to touches like versatile everyday pants from Western Rise, plus a classic everyday watch. We’re not abandoning layering in favor of full-on summer style just yet though, so a luxurious T-shirt is your critical base layer here (more on that in a moment). The key when it comes to dealing with spring weather? Being ready for anything, from unexpected rain to high winds to a late night FaceTime happy hour with friends, and so on. Today’s #OOTD will get you there, mark my words. If you like what you see, be sure to hit me up on Twitter to let me know. Thanks for reading!

Layers to help you fight spring rain, plus stylish accessories.

  • The Rain Jacket: J. Crew Brunswick Rain Jacket, $148 — J. Crew continues to expand its repetoire in new and pleasing ways, such as this ultra-stylish and functional rain jacket — quite possibly the perfect piece of spring outerwear.
  • The Rugged Overshirt: Flint and Tinder Chamois Overshirt, $138 — There’s a chance that breezy spring weather could get ever-so-slightly chillier than expected, and that’s where one of the best men’s overshirts from Flint and Tinder comes into play.
  • The Refined Tee: General Issue Short-Sleeve Tee, $85 — General Issue launched last year with a focus on making refined men’s basics, such as this expertly cut T-shirt — it’s ready to be layered with ease on a breezy spring day under your rugged overshirt, and it also looks great the rest of the time on its own.
  • The Pants: Western Rise Diversion Pants, $138 — For getting around in style this spring, reach for these new, versatile everyday pants from Western Rise — they’re abrasion-resistant and feature four-way stretch, so in short, they’re the perfect pants for your next spring adventure.
  • The Boots: Blundstone Original 550 Boots, $195 — Rain-ready, rugged and durable, the Blundstone Original 550 Boots are some of the best boots for spring (and well beyond) — regardless of how much it actually rains.
  • The Watch: Zodiac Super Sea Wolf 68, $1,395 — The demands of spring weather call for a tough everyday watch — and yes, the Zodiac Super Sea Wolf 68, while quite pricey (to say the least) is one of the best new watches to buy right now.
  • The Everyday Carry: Billykirk x Flint and Tinder Standard Issue Tote, $165 — No matter where you’re heading this spring, a rugged tote bag is the perfect everyday carry addition — and it helps that this stylish tote is from Billykirk & Flint and Tinder.
  • The Grooming Essential: Doji Natural Deodrant Spray, $10 — Keep your grooming on-point this season with a handy natural deodorant spray that just so happens to be very affordably priced.

Dealing with spring rain and breezy weather comes down to more than just throwing on a rain jacket and calling it a day — in the case of this ensemble, layers are ever-more critical with each passing day (and each passing storm, for that matter). Kicking things off with the excellent, highly functional J. Crew Brunswick Jacket is assuredly a smart move, as is adding one of the best men’s overshirts from Flint and Tinder — and to top it off, a premium T-shirt from General Issue adds both visual interest and comfort on a chilly spring day. When spring weather starts up though, anything can happen, so you assuredly need some of the best boots for spring — Blundstone has you taken care of. Those boots, while a bit bulky, are still able to readily pair with your versatile everyday pants from Western Rise — that combination should offer ease of movement and plenty of style (heck, I’ve tried out the Western Rise Diversion Pants and am a big fan of them). Now, it wouldn’t be a complete outfit with a durable, classic watch like the Zodiac Super Sea Wolf 68, would it? You’re investing in that timepiece, to be sure, but you’ll have it for years and years to come. And no matter what you’ve got to haul around — be it gear for work or your favorite book — a rugged tote bag will keep your everyday carry in fine form. And last but not least, stay fresh with a natural deodorant spray that’s quite easy to use. Does that about cover everything when it comes to versatile spring style? Why yes, yes I think it does.

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by Beau H.

See Now, Buy Now: This Shirt from Howler Brothers is the Coolest Shirt You Can Buy for the Season

Best shirts for men

Trust me — this might be the coolest shirt you can get your hands on.

Sorting through the best shirts for men — or really, any retailer’s shirting offerings — is sometimes quite the taxing exercise. Where to begin if you want a shirt that’s unique yet subtly stylish, and also not too wild? The Howler Brothers Gaucho Snapshirt could be the way to go (at least, your friendly neighborhood style writer thinks so). It’s potentially one of the best men’s shirts for spring and summer, and it starts with the fact that it’s got a design unlike any other on the market (check out the front chest pocket designs). Howler Brothers takes great care in making gear that’s technical while blending the modern and the retro (take the Merlin Jacket as seen in this post on how to wear a denim shirt). Thankfully, the Howler Brothers Gaucho Snapshirt embraces those same qualities quite handsomely, featuring UPF15 sun protection baked right into the shirt — that’s not to mention the style points it’s got going for it.

The Howler Brothers Gaucho Snapshirt just keeps winning in matters of functionality, too — it’s made with quick-drying fabric for breathability and ease of movement all day. To me, that means you can pair up the Howler Brothers Gaucho Snapshirt with slim light wash denim and your favorite chukka boots for a casual day of patio beers, or you can wear it with a stylish vest and tough field pants (plus the Huckberry Duck Boots) for a spring day hike.

A closer look at the details that make this shirt so essential.

Of course, I’d also recommend you wear that same outfit for post-hike plate of farm-to-table food. It’s all about the versatility in style (and in your lifestyle) that a piece like the Howler Brothers Gaucho Snapshirt brings to the table (and your closet). And the rest of the small details make the Howler Brothers Gaucho Snapshirt easily one of the best men’s shirts for spring and summer,  from the vintage-inspired pearl snaps to the microfiber-lined chest pocket. It’s really tough to top the Howler Brothers Gaucho Snapshirt, don’t you think?

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: The Best Men’s T-Shirt, Shaving Clubs for Men & Spring Break Style

The tough T-shirt that’s going to layer with ease all spring.

OK, it’s here — another glorious spring Friday. What are you wearing this weekend? It’s about high time you picked up the best T-shirt for spring and summer — the Flint and Tinder Heavy Slub Tee, as shown above. It’s going to layer up perfectly with all manner of men’s style essentials, not to mention stylish spring sneakers or your favorite pair of chukka boots. It’s as simple as that. So, that’s the T-shirt you’re wearing this weekend. What’s on your weekend agenda? Perhaps a visit to your favorite brewery or maybe even an evening of live music? My weekend is going to contain a little bit of both — I’m kicking off Friday night right by seeing hard-rocking British band Foals play my favorite venue in the city, Brooklyn Steel! And beforehand, I plan to stop by Grimm Artisanal Ales for a few choice pre-concert brews. It all sounds great on paper — I certainly can’t wait. The rest of the weekend will be filled with searching out the perfect cup of coffee (I’m looking forward to hitting up Mixtape Bushwick in that regard), along with writing for some of my favorite menswear sites. As of late, I’ve started up writing again for Effortless Gent, a classic Web site I still love, and you can view that work here. For the rest of ya, well, there’s a nice selection of weekend reads below. Thanks for reading!

Save up to $200.

  • Which jacket blends heritage-quality style with spring-ready layering potential and unlimited wearability? Why, that’s be the Todd Snyder x Golden Bear Bomber, as covered by yours truly at GearMoose! Cheers.
  • In my mind, our #OOTD series is always worth a second — or third — look. In that regard, I’d say it behooves you to learn how to wear your new favorite T-shirt this spring. This look won’t let you down, I guarantee it.Shop Mott & Bow Today!
  • Whether you’re new to the world of taming your stubble or consider yourself a seasoned pro, it’d be handy to know about the best shave clubs for men — right? Enter my latest post for GearMoose covering the shaving essentials you can’t live without.
  • Last but not least — do you have a spring getaway coming up? Are you wondering what to wear? Gear up with my suggestions for what to pack for a tropical spring break — it’s as easy as that.

Shop Need Supply Co.'s Mens.

Before you go, I’m going to point you toward one more handy, useful article — my guide on how to wear sneakers this spring. It’s as classic and essential as can be. Find it useful? Let me know on Twitter!

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: Game of Thrones, Yellow Rose Outlaw Bourbon & How to Wear Sneakers this Spring

The one and only denim jacket you need for spring and summer, available right now.

I’ll come right out and say it — the one jacket you need to wear this weekend is the Flint and Tinder Type 2 Trucker Jacket. Seriously, it could be the best denim jacket on the market, and that’s really saying something. As sold by Huckberry (and available in the site’s section of Just Landed new gear), it belongs on your back for many spring and summer weekends to come. How could you not love the throwback style and yet modern cool that this thing brings to the table, right? At any rate, I digress — we’ve got work to do. Well, not a ton of work, seeing as it’s the start of a spring weekend and all. After quite a few weeks on the road (including a recent trip to wonderful Portland, Maine as seen on my Instagram), I’ll be hanging back in Brooklyn this weekend, enjoying a favorite cup of coffee and  visiting with an old college friend up from Washington, D.C., and taking in all the city has to offer on the craft brewing front (I think a trip to Five Boroughs Brewing is in the cards). And if I had my way, well, I’d be wearing the Flint and Tinder Typer 2 Trucker Jacket for exploring many a great brewery — but a guy can dream, right? For adding to your own menswear wish list, check out my Friday news selections below. Thanks for reading!

  • OK, so I mentioned the wildly popular show “Game of Thrones” up above in the headline … but I don’t watch the show (sorry!), so why did I call it out? Well, it’s got a menswear-specific tie-in. Namely, the John Varvatos x Game of Thrones collaboration just dropped, and I wrote about it for The Manual! Get even more of your GOT fix by reading up on the full offering.
  • We’re well and truly into spring sneaker season — it’s with that in mind that I put together my own guide recently on the blog covering how to wear sneakers this spring. Can’t go wrong with an entry in our ongoing #OOTD series, can you?
  • If you follow me on Instagram, you know I appreciate a tasty whiskey — in an Old Fashioned or on its own, on the rocks — as much as the next guy. In that regard, it was pretty neat to learn and write about Yellow Rose Outlaw Bourbon, one spirit you should serioulsy consider adding to your bar cart — read about why it’s so unique and essential (hint: It involves Texas corn!) over at GearMoose.Shop Mott & Bow Today!With the weekend nearly upon us, I bet you’re ready to get going. Not so fast, my friends. Stick around for one more second to read about this spring’s must-buy boots (from Taylor Stitch naturally). And while you’re still here, you might want to read about the classic leather watch you need on your wrist … ASAP. OK, that’ll do it from me. Have a good one!

by Beau H.

See Now, Buy Now: Get Two Jackets for the Price of One with the Banks Journal Lumber Jacket

Just one option with the reversible Banks Journal Lumber Jacket.

Want two jackets for the price of one? Heck, want a jacket that qualifies as one of the best men’s spring jackets? You’re definitely in luck, seeing as today’s See Now, Buy Now series entry — the Banks Journal Lumber Jacket as sold by our stylish friends at Bespoke Post — fits the bill on both fronts. And for the ongoing transition into spring, versatile and adaptable style — especially when it comes to your rotation of spring jackets — is critical. So, again … enter the Banks Journal Lumber Jacket, featuring a 100 percent brushed cotton flannel construction on side two (as seen below), and an easy-to-layer wool-poly blend in a handsome golden color on side one. Either way, you’re getting a heck of a lot of wearability for an excellent price when it comes to this stylish spring jacket.  Options are crucial, and comfort is certainly key — the  brand envisioned this jacket being worn after an early surf or a late evening out.

SHOP: The Banks Journal Lumber Jacket via Bespoke Post

Bespoke Post

Side two of this functional, handsome jacket.

Your author’s personal favorite when it comes to the Banks Journal Lumber Jacket is side one — the rich golden color option, finished off with side handwarmer pockets and two chest button-snap pockets for your everyday carry essentials. There’s something that just feels right about this jacket, especially when paired up with, say, a rugged short-sleeve henley and grey chinos — plus vintage-inspired sneakers for spring. Of course, either side is stylish and versatile — the plaid side of the Banks Journal Lumber Jacket, made with brushed cotton flannel, is a perfect way to combat chilly spring evenings or a breezy early morning commute, especially when worn with a classic dark indigo shirt and slim faded denim. The point is, the Banks Journal Lumber Jacket is clean, classic and understated the whole way through (and not in a bad way). Which side of the Banks Journal Lumber Jacket is your favorite? And how would you wear it? Head over to The Style Guide Facebook page and let me know!

SHOP: The Banks Journal Lumber Jacket via Bespoke Post

by Beau H.

See Now, Buy Now: The Ridgemont Outfitters Heritage Boot Is Perfect for Versatile Spring Style

A durable pair of boots that channel both classic hikers and high-top sneakers.

Even as we reach the end of April, there’s still a pair of shoes every guy — including you — needs in his wardrobe (and on his feet). And in the case of today’s See Now, Buy Now series entry, that pair of shoes happens to be a dependable-as-heck pair of hybrid sneaker-boots … specifically, the Ridgemont Outfitters Heritage Boot. The ideal shoe for fighting through spring rain and eventually transitioning toward sunny days, outdoor drinking and music festivals aplenty, the Ridgemont Outfitters Heritage Boots are a dependable and stylish pair of spring boots that are worth a second look if you want to switch up your footwear rotation this spring. Your humble Style Guide author always advocates for sticking to tried-and-true classics in the footwear department, from classic high-top sneakers to a timeless pair of chukka boots, but there’s something to be said for giving the more unique Ridgemont Outfitters Heritage Boots a try. That process starts from the ground up with a waterproof lining, so you know the guts of these boots are on point. But they come in mighty handy in matters of style, too.

That is to say, if you want to swap out your white canvas sneakers or suede chukka boots for a hearty park walk or a long, grueling day checking out multiple breweries (a tough job!), the Ridgemont Outfitters Heritage Boots are the ones to wear. They’ve got the comfort and cut of a pair of high-tops, with the durable touches of a rich leather pair of boots. Features like speed lacing and four cool color options (I like the Java color the best) make the Heritage Boots a reliable standby with casual outfits — like a classic chambray shirt and dark denim, or a slub pocket tee and faded light wash jeans. The price point on the Ridgemont Outfitters Heritage Boots is almost too agreeable, as well — currently under $130. That’s a must-buy at any time of year, but especially right now.

Can you dig the affordable style and versatility of the Ridgemont Outfitters Heritage Boots? Let me know on Twitter. 

Thanks for reading!

-Beau

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Criquet Slim-Fit Player’s Shirt

What’s better to wear on a breezy spring day than a slim, stylish polo? Truly, there’s not much. And that’s even moreso the case with the Criquet Slim-Fit Player’s Shirt, a piece that could quickly become your new favorite spring and summer polo.  It’s this week’s Style Pick of the Week for great reason — plenty of #menswear-centric design details set it apart from your average polo, and that means it’s to be applauded, praised …. and purchased. In fact, you might recognize the Criquet Slim-Fit Player’s Shirt from a recent #OOTD entry, and it’s back today thanks to its versatility and sharp style.  It’s available in a wide plethora of colors, including the crisp Heavy Metal colorway seen in these photos.  Other options include the Midnight Cowboy Slim-Fit Player’s Shirt and the Mr. White Slim-Fit Player’s Shirt, so you certainly can’t go wrong in that regard.

It’s a newer take on the brand’s classic Player’s Shirt, and it’s a welcome addition to the brand’s line. Now, just why is it so tough to misstep when picking up a slim polo (or other stylish gear) from Criquet Shirts? Let me tell you, my good man.  Criquet Shirts started with the simple idea that today’s polo shirts featured sloppy collars and poor construction — using the idea of their favorite prep-school shirts as well as classic polos worn by the guys in their family, Criquet Shirts set out to upgrade the polo. And after checking out the Criquet Slim-Fit Player’s Shirt (in multiple colorways) these past few weeks, I can definitely concur that it’s a style upgrade worth picking up for your closet this season. It’s comfortable enough to wear on a spring road trip, it’s stylish enough to layer under a lightweight navy blazer, and it’s well-made enough to work as hard as you do all day long — trust me.

Greats

 

A classic polo paired with crisp chinos and white sneakers — definitely the way to go. Renshaw Sneakers by Brooks Heritage. Standard Issue Utility Chinos by Brooks Heritage. Mod Watch by Timex x Todd Snyder. Notebook by Field Notes Brand. 810 Wallet by Brothers Leather Supply.

It features the sort of welcome design touches that other polo shirts lack — for starters, the sturdy collar sits nicely throughout the day, and doesn’t curl over (collar stays similar to your favorite dress shirt help out with that). And the 100 percent organic cotton jersey fabric is soft, comfortable and breathable — you’ll be comfortable in the heat with any color option of the  Criquet Slim-Fit Player’s Shirt. I’ve found mine to be handy and versatile enough to wear with everything from slim Apolis chinos and classic SeaVees sneakers to stylish light wash denim and a classic bomber jacket. And although some are firmly in the anti-logo camp, the small Criquet logo stitched on the left chest pocket is understated enough that the Criquet Slim-Fit Player’s Shirt works well on its own sans jacket. That’s great news if you’re in need of a polo — or several — to wear to work and then out to happy hour (without any of the bad connotations that bright polo shirts seem to conjure up). Feel free to wear it with tailored swim shorts and slip-on sneakers to the beach or boardwalk, too. And another thing — if you’ve found yourself wearing fewer and fewer polos over the years, it’s definitely time to start again. Make no mistake — the comfortable fabric, refined colors and tailored fit of the Criquet Slim-Fit Player’s Shirt are all features that could be enough to make you a believer in the power of the polo once again.

So, are you back on-board with a polo for spring and summer? What about the Criquet Slim-Fit Player’s Shirt?

Let me know in the comments — and we’ll see you out there!

-Beau

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: Abercrombie & Fitch x Tretorn, Oars + Alps and LCD Soundsystem

Is it tough to believe we’re kicking off another edition of The Friday Read here at The Style Guide? If your answer is “Yes,” then we’re in the same boat. We’ve had a lot going on here in Brooklyn, from exploring the borough in style to getting you prepped to dress for your next Sunday brunch (we really do love our brunch here, tell ya what), plus busy times at my day job in fashion PR. It’s all fun and games though, and the fun is set to continue this weekend — I’ll be dressed in spring road trip style to head to Indiana to visit my best friend from college, Mr. Stephen Brook. Check out his work covering Notre Dame football and area sports, if you’re a fan of the Fighting Irish. And if you want to keep up with all the action, follow yours truly on Instagram or check in with The Style Guide on Facebook. Know that in other #menswear matters, I just finished a rather extensive — and I mean, extensive — feature for GearMoose covering the best men’s backpacks; keep your eyes peeled for that one.  For now though, let’s start the weekend nice and early with a few choice men’s style (and music!) reads. Enjoy!

  • Upgrade your grooming game in a big way with Oars + Alps and the brand’s handy, easy-to-use and nearly essential Athlete’s Grooming Kit. I’ve had the chance to test it out over these past few weeks, and I’ve been quite pleased with the results — check out my recent feature on the Oars + Alps Athlete’s Grooming Kit for yourself!
  • We love talking all about spring style essentials here at The Style Guide — and when it comes to your new favorite sneakers for spring and summer, Abercrombie and Fitch x Tretorn might just take the cake. It was excellent to learn about the new collaboration’s updated take on the classic Tretorn Nylite Sneakers for The Manual, and I’d urge you to pick up a pair while they’re around.
  • If you haven’t gotten around to listening to two (two!) new LCD Soundsystem songs, please take this chance to do so. The eclectic NYC indie rockers helped define a new era in the resurgent NYC rock scene thoughout the 2000s, and they’ve returned to the fold with festival appearances in recent years, plus an April residency at new venue Brooklyn Steel to boot! So, it’s nice that new music is here — with more to come, if our luck holds up!

One last thing before you go:

  • In need of a new favorite everyday carry piece? Namely, an essential and slim wallet? The TGT Army All Over Deluxe Wallet could be just the wallet to buy for you — and it’s with that durability and versatility in mind that I wrote about it for GearMoose. Enjoy, and let me know in the comments if you end up picking it up!

We’re all finished up for this week, folks. Time for the weekend! Stay tuned for tomorrow’s Style Pick of the Week, and check back on Monday for more #menswear.

by Beau H.

Plug Me In: Adventures and Live Music in Brooklyn

Just hanging around in Brooklyn waiting for the Chairlift show. Denim Jacket by Forever21. Graham Shirt by Mott and Bow. Super Skinny Skinny Jeans in Light Wash by Abercrombie & Fitch. Service Boots by Viberg. Military Watch by Timex x Todd Snyder. Flight Brief by Owen and Fred. Glasses by Frameri.

It was with great excitement that I sat down to write this post — after all, this past weekend combined some of my favorite things (certainly, the chance to make AC/DC references in headlines is among them). But on another note, if you follow along with yours truly at The Style Guide, you might have an inkling as to a few of my favorite things. In short order: Live music, #menswear and Brooklyn explorations. Luckily for me, all three were on the docket this weekend. And as you might have read in past travel feature posts, there’s nothing I love more than dressing for a rock concert, hitting up a choice brunch spot, and enjoying an excellent show. It was a momentous weekend for all those reasons –namely,  it was my first chance to check out the newly opened Brooklyn Steel, now the largest music venue in the borough. Of course, I hit up a few great coffee shops — and unlike my recent road trip to Pittsburgh, I didn’t even have to lug around a rugged weekender bag! Join for me the ride and see how I took on the weekend in style.

Mixing high-low style with the Life/After/Denim Patchwork Shirt, the standout Standard Issue Utility Chino from Apolis and the handsome Allen Edmonds Liverpool Chelsea Boots. Leatherback Writer by This Is Ground. Pen by Cross Pens. Watch by MVMT Watches. Sunglasses by Tom Ford.

The weekend really kicked off properly on Friday, what with the chance to break out a bit of festive spring style for time on the clock at my day job in fashion PR. The real highlight though?  It has to be Life/After/Denim Patchwork Shirt, an entirely unique piece that’s fit for the office and fit for a Friday evening. Seeing as I spent mine both taking care of business at work and shooting a few photos with Megan Collins of Style Girlfriend (new project coming soon!), this piece worked out perfectly for both pursuits. And it proved a breezy complement to my durable, classic and versatile Apolis Standard Issue Utility Chinos — the neutral color and clean fit played perfectly off what are quickly becoming my new favorite boots: the Allen Edmonds Liverpool Chelsea Boot, which merge a sharp silhouette with beautiful brown suede.

NORDSTROM.com

Useful everyday carry pieces like my This Is Ground Leatherback Writer and a crisp, classic MVMT Watches brown leather watch proved essential, too. More importantly: If you seek a subtly stylish pen made for daily use, the Peerless TrackR Ballpoint Pen is seemingly immune to being misplaced thanks to a built-in locator app. It writes quite nicely and looks great, too. So, those were the essentials I used to take on a last day of work — but what about the rest of the weekend, ehh?

For Chairlift’s final NYC, I had to break out my Abercrombie & Fitch Super Skinny Denim tough Viberg Service Boots and grooming gear from Oars + Alps. 1951 Traveller Bag by Graf Lantz.

Saturday brought with it the promise of a brooding-yet-bright, eclectic and plain fun synthpop show from Brooklyn duo Chairlift — the group’s last-ever NYC show — plus the chance to get out and explore Brooklyn with my favorite men’s style gear in tow.  The breezy and temperate spring day proved the ideal chance to break out my new favorite spring shirt: The soft, slim and well-made Mott and Bow Graham Shirt, with a light blue shade that’s a great change of pace from more traditional chambray shirts — truly, a nice way to offset my Forever21 Denim Jacket. The shirt was one part of a monochromatic look alongside a slim pair of Abercrombie & Fitch Super Skinny Denim — the light wash calls to mind the ’90s quite nicely, and fit right in at Saturday’s show. Equally perfect for the occasion? My durable, tough and essential Viberg Service Boots — an incredibly well-made, distinguished pair of boots that I’ve already begun breaking in around Brooklyn. They’re quite simply the nicest pair of boots I’ve ever owned. And coming from a guy who loves tough leather boots  … that’s saying something.


For a day that took me around Williamsburg, I loaded up my new, sustainably made and very effective Graf Lantz 1951 Carrier Bag. Made with biodegradable 100 percent merino wool felt in a rich shade of green, this is one bag that carries enough clout and style to be used every day. I supplemented my everyday haul with the essential Timex x Todd Snyder Military Watch and the This Is Ground Leatherback Writer  — both well-priced favorites critical for any writer. And crucially, I had to prep for the day ahead with new grooming gear from Oars + Alps. The Active Armor Deodorant is a winner — it’s effective and made with a crisp scent. While my gear helped me navigate the borough, there are a few other key ingredients that helped considerably. Namely, a caffeine pit stop at my favorite coffee and menswear shop in Brooklyn, Upstate Stock, plus a delicious pastrami sandwich at coffee shop The West and a trip for craft brews at Beer Street in advance of Saturday evening’s Brooklyn Steel show.

Sutro Footwear

And as to the show itself: A winner all-around, to say the least. As you might have expected from my winter trip to New Haven and my December trip to see The Head and the Heart in Baltimore, it’s very tough to top the excitement and buzz around checking out a new venue. In just its second full week of action, Brooklyn Steel — housed in a former steel fabrication shop and jammed with a crowd of 1,800  — didn’t disappoint. Critically, neither did Chairlift.  They’re perhaps most well-known for their hit song “Bruises,” of Apple commercial fame, but there’s more to it. The duo of Caroline Polachek and Patrick Wimberly embody making it in the Brooklyn music scene — by way of Colorado — and then sticking around long enough to build a strong local and global following.

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It’s a testament to the group’s unique sound that even in just three albums, they’ve amassed a deep catalogue. That catalogue includes the band’s 2016 release, “Moth,” which is their strongest yet — both brooding and light thanks to Polachek’s stellar voice, which helped make the evening a great one. It was a a special show, and a long day on my feet, but my Viberg Service Boots are breaking in nicely, and the show was absolutely worth it. Rest assured, Caroline Polachek’s work as a solo artist post-Chairlift will have a big-time fan in this live music enthusiast, and we should all be grateful for the music they’ve left us with.

Blending the sporty and the classic. Wenlock Chambray Shirt by United By Blue. Slim Stone Chinos by Taylor Stitch. Sneakers by Gola. Leatherback Writer by This Is Ground. Red Wing Leather Waterbury Chronograph by Timex x Todd Snyder.

Sunday brought with it some much-needed relaxation to cap off a busy week — and a busy Saturday. But what would Sunday be without a little great style, ehh? And so, I broke out my slim, essential United By Blue Wenlock Chambray Shirt, featuring a pattern of neat mini-plus signs and a crisp blue color. The Wenlock Chambray Shirt complemented my Taylor Stitch Slim Chino in Light Stone, made in Portugal and featuring the tailored fit one would expect from a brand that prides itself on quality. And Sunday also provided a prime chance to slip into my Gola Classic Comet Plimsoll Trainers, a clean pair of retro-inspired trainers from a classic British brand. The entire ensemble was an effective high-low mix when matched up with everyday carry essentials like my  Timex + Todd Snyder Red Wing Leather Chronograph. That timepiece is a hard-wearing watch made for just about anything (including more Williamsburg exploration of choice spots like menswear emporium The Hill-Side). And seemingly  as always, my Owen and Fred Flight Brief proved effective at hauling around all the essentials needed for a day of blogging.

The right gear for a Sunday in Brooklyn. Wenlock Chambray Shirt by United By Blue. Slim Chinos in Light Stone by Taylor Stitch. Denim jacket by American Apparel. Plimsoll Comet Trainers by Gola. Red Wing Leather Chronograph by Timex x Todd Snyder. Runaway Aviators by MVMT Watches. Flight Brief by Owen and Fred.

And the next time you find yourself in Williamsburg, I’d say you’ve got another key stop to make. For one, who can resist an incredible donut …. or fried chicken … or both?? That’s where Pies ‘n’ Thighs comes in. The breakfast and lunch menus are packed with incredibly delicious, indulgent entrees (who wants an Insane Burger, ehh?) and you absolutely can’t pass up their donuts. Like, at all.

Beckett Simonon

Indeed, this past weekend really did provide just about everything I could ask for — even though it was a weekend spent at “home” in Brooklyn, home really is a great place to be. I can never pass up a chance to explore the borough, sip on some craft brews and wear my favorite menswear — all while checking out a great show and a venue that’s now very high on my list. It was a special first show at Brooklyn Steel, and I’ll absolutely be back. The fact that I was able to do all of this just by hopping on the subway across a matter of days really is quite unique and one-of-a-kind. So, as long as those subway trips culminate in great adventures, excellent live music and new opportunities, I’ll keep swiping my MetroCard.

Until next weekend — and until the next show!

-Beau

Greats                                                             

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Todd Snyder Nylon Deck Jacket

Todd Snyder

Potentially your new favorite spring jacket? Oh, yes.

OK, everyone — now that we’re past tax season and you’ve just locked in that refund, why not turn around and spend it on the Todd Snyder Nylon Deck Jacket? Who’s with me? Even if you  go the responsible route and sock that money away, a stylish spring jacket is absolutely something you need in your closet — to say the least. And what better place to go for one than an excellent, lauded American menswear designer like Todd Snyder? He’s a designer who does so many things well — at least in the eyes of your Style Guide writer — and excellent, functional and plain great-looking outerwear like the Nylon Deck Jacket fits the bill quite nicely. It’s the sort of piece that feels at once vintage and current — it’s the ideal blend of clean looks (no logo, a neutral navy color) and heritage style that the designer nails perfectly in other pieces like the Todd Snyder x Champion Pocket Sweatshirt.  And if you’re in the market for a functional, well-designed and versatile spring jacket, the Nylon Deck Jacket is exactly what you should look for. It starts with the double-faced nylon, which adds durability while keeping the silhouette lightweight. Add in the fact that it’s got a quilted wool shell liner — also  removable — and it’s really two layering pieces within one. Given its naval inspiration, it’s even fitting that the front buttons are made from melanine — the strongest type of material for buttons used by the military. Not bad, ehh? So, the Nylon Deck Jacket has the specs to stand up to spring rain and look great in the process — but how exactly should you style this piece, you ask? Simple, my friends.

With a versatile, clean silhouette, the Nylon Deck Jacket is wearable with just about anything in your rotation — particularly a rugged chambray shirt and slim khaki chinos (both everyday essentials that work for a business casual office or a weekend coffee date. And the great thing is that you can also layer it over even more laidback pieces — try a slim  Todd Snyder pocket tee and slim light wash denim, to start. But the essential nature of the Nylon Deck Jacket doesn’t stop with its clean, simple looks. Handy design touches like an interior cell phone pocket help your essential everyday carry pieces stay dry in the rain, too. The fit should also be slim and reliable — perfect for layering up with the Todd Snyder x Champion Pocket Sweatshirt and hitting up your favorite bar or grabbing Sunday brunch. That versatility — combined with its stylish silhouette — is crucial. As we always say here at The Style Guide, it’s an investment worth making — preferably as soon as you can. And don’t forget other ways you can wear it — say, with a marled long-sleeve henley and chino shorts for a grab-and-go outfit after hitting up the beach. Of course, it’s the type of functional jacket that also works as you dress for spring break — again, grab and go. Alright, ready to spend that refund? Of course you are (wink, wink). If you want more spring style inspiration, follow yours truly on Instagram or Twitter.

See you out there, and stay stylish!

-Beau