Tag / sturdy brothers

by Beau H.

The List: Here’s All the New, Rugged Menswear to Rock This Fall

It’s time for another edition of The List, everyone’s favorite bimonthly roundup of, quite simply, the best men’s gear out there.  And today, we’re covering rugged gear for early fall — seeing as we’re nearing October, it seems fitting … right? By now, maybe you’ve stored away your classic summer sneakers and are reaching for heavier layers, pieces with some texture and heft to them. That’s all GREAT in the opinion of this #menswear writer — I can’t wait to break out even more fall style essentials across the weeks ahead. With that in mind, let’s check out this edition of The List — feel free to shoot me a note on Twitter with any questions, comments, feedback … you know the drill. Here we go!

Wolverine Original 1000 Mile Roughout Boot in Amber Suede — $299.98
Wolverine 1000 Mile Boots

An incredibly great-looking boot from Wolverine. Man!

My, oh my. Wolverine has done it again with a new take on the 1000 Mile Boot. The 1000 Mile Roughout Boot in Amber Suede looks absolutely gorgeous, well-made and rugged. Nice work by Wolverine back in Michigan, ehh?
Zodiac Super Sea Wolf 53 Compression Watch — $1,074.98

A truly expensive watch that truly backs up the price tag.

Have we jumped the shark  a bit by recommending a $1,000-plus watch? Well, Zodiac certainly knows its way around a timepiece — the Super Sea Wolf is durable, rugged and truly badass. Wear the Zodiac Super Sea Wolf with a rugged henley and classic leather boots, beer in hand.
Taylor Stitch Crewneck Pocket Tee — $58
Taylor Stitch

A classic pocket tee perfect for fall layering.

If it’s so close to fall, why are we recommending a stylish pocket tee as a top today? There’s never a bad time for a classic pocket tee, and the Taylor Stitch Crewneck Pocket Tee will work to layer handsomely under a rugged cardigan or a moleskin shirt.
Astorflex Greenflex Rough Boots — $134.98

A perfectly made, tough pair of classic chukka boots for early fall and beyond.

As previously discussed in our See Now, Buy Now series, Astorflex gets it right with the Greenflex Rough Boots. These classic men’s chukka boots featured an updated tread sole and the type of color & texture to pair well with plenty of other fall style essentials.

Sturdy Brothers Everyday Belt in Chestnut — $80
Sturdy Brothers

A handsome leather belt that’ll look even better the more you wear it this fall.

If you’ve got rugged leather chukka boots included in your outfit, you need a durable, classic leather belt that’ll fit right in with the heavier fabrics and textures of fall. Sturdy Brothers gets it right with the brand’s Everyday Belt.

Taylor Stitch Utility Shirt — $148

A uniquely textured, uniquely built shirt fit for fall layering.

More Taylor Stitch menswear in this edition of The List? Certainly. With a unique Army Green color, textured herringbone fabric and functional build, the Taylor Stitch Utility Shirt is practically made to be worn for weekend adventures — preferably layered over the Taylor Stitch Crewneck Pocket Tee.

Spiegelau IPA Glasses (Set of Four) — $32
Spiegelau

The best way to enjoy your favorite IPA — right? Right.

While we’ve talked to this point solely about rugged menswear for fall, the season is also an excellent time to break out a rich, finely crafted IPA on a cool night — ehh? The Spiegelau IPA Glasses are the perfect accessory for it.

Flint and Tinder Texas-Made Oxford in White — $89
Flint and Tinder

A well-made, well-fitting white Oxford shirt never goes out of style — agreed?

Another entry in our See Now, Buy Now series in past weeks, this American-made Oxford from Flint and Tinder is crisp, thoughtfully constructed and wearable with everything from dark denim to olive chinos and a grey cardigan.

DSTLD Slim Jeans in Light Wash — $95

DSTLD Jeans

Slim jeans in a light wash are a unique change of pace from your typical dark blue or black denim.

So, you’ve got your American-made Oxford  or your rugged Taylor Stitch Utility Shirt — what denim are you wearing?  With their cool light wash and slim fit, these DSTLD jeans are a unique change of pace from dark denim.

Ventus Black Kite B-01 Carbon Fiber Watch — $500

A sleek, strong watch that’ll work perfectly with plenty of fall style ensembles.

Want a tough, dependable and stylish men’s watch that pairs well with everything from an army green field coat and black denim to a herringbone blazer and black wingtip boots? The Venus Black Kite Carbon Fiber Watch is the one.

Outset Leather Grill Gloves — $20

Effective leather grilling gloves for all your outdoor cooking pursuits this fall.

Believe you me, fall is as good a time as any to fire up the grill at a tailgate or a bonfire — and these durable Outset Leather Grill Gloves are a go-to accessory.

Line of Trade Machined Steel Bottle Opener — $23.20

A sleek and tailgate-ready bottle opener — just add your favorite beer.

Just as badly as you need durable grilling gloves for your next tailgate, so too do you need a handy, durable bottle opener. Is it one of the best bottle openers to buy this season? Well, it’s durable and it doesn’t look half-bad, so … yes.
Titanium EDC Essentials — $89

A crisply designed everyday essential that’ll keep everything you need in one place.

The next time you head out on a weekend trip or a day hike, bring along this handy everyday carry essential — you might be surprised how often you find a use for the simply designed Titanium EDC Essentials.
Thursday Boots Grizzly Wheat President Boot — $199
Thursday Boots

Handsome, durable boots that’ll break in quite well over time this fall.

Last but not least — these rugged leather boots from Thursday Boots are the ideal complement to fall outfits aplenty — particularly if you layer up with something like the  Taylor Stitch Utility Shirt.

OK, Style Guide readers — that’ll do it today for this rendition of The List! What was your favorite? Personally, I love the  Taylor Stitch Utility Shirt. At any rate, thanks for reading — stay stylish!
-Beau

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by Beau H.

Style Suggestion: Here’s What to Wear to Your Next Football Tailgate

Can you feel it in the air? The start of fall — soon enough, anyways — always brings with it excitement anticipation for your Style Guide author. Even as I walk through Brooklyn past changing leaves this time of year, I’m reminded of my home — the beautiful campus of Michigan State University and of course … football season. I night be far away from East Lansing now, but it’s still on my mind — and lucky for you and me, this uniquely all-American pastime is a great chance to break out classic menswear.  Today, we’re going to answer a burning question for all of us #menswear fans — what the heck do I wear to this tailgate? Whether you’re a pro football fan or a college diehard, today’s football tailgate style suggestion has a bit of something for everyone.

We’re talking rugged menswear that’s stylish, durable, weather-ready and absolutely geared toward fitting in at a sporting event. From a stylish hooded sweatshirt to a pair of perhaps the best leather sneakers for men, it’s covered below. The even better part? This fall men’s style suggestion gives you some leeway to add in team colors as you see fit — as long as you’re rooting for the green and white and not those pesky Wolverines in Ann Arbor, we should be all set. What do you think of this fall style suggestion? Let me know in the comments below, and follow me on Instagram for seasonal style tips galore.

The Hooded Sweatshirt: Flint and Tinder 10-Year Hoodie in Gray — $89

A thoughtfully designed, durably made hooded sweatshirt for fall mornings before kickoff.

There’s such a thing as a good-looking hooded sweatshirt out there, trust me. Of course, the 10-Year Hoodie is made with durable style in mind by the fine folks at Flint and Tinder — and that means it’s a wise move to layer up with this collegiate-inspired staple at your next tailgate. Unlike other hooded sweatshirts that potentially feature an oversized fit, the Flint and Tinder 10-Year Hoodie boasts tailored raglan construction, a neutral color and cozy comfort, ideal for a chilly fall morning or afternoon.

The T-shirt: Tailgate Clothing Men’s Team T-shirt — $32

A vintage-inspired team tee pairs well with a stylish hooded sweatshirt — ya dig?

Here’s the good news, folks — this part of the ensemble is really up to you. Tailgate Clothing, founded back in Iowa by famed American menswear designer Todd Snyder before he launched his own line, makes stylish men’s T-shirts emblazoned with graphics of dozens of schools — they fit well, feel great and look even better. This is certainly a stylish graphic tee that’s an upgrade over an athletic jersey. If it gets chilly, you could always layer this tee over a slim striped henley.

The Denim: Flint and Tinder All-American Washed Jeans in Slim or Straight Tapered — $98

Rugged fall style

Pleasingly faded denim for a casual fall football tailgate.

As American as football itself, what better way to nod to rugged fall style than with a classic pair of American-made denim? Because we’re going for casual style here, a pair of expertly faded denim works quite well — leave the inky blue dark denim at home this time around. Plus, the two fit options on these All-American Washed Jeans allow you to customize your look accordingly. Who’s ready for some football now?

The Sneakers: Todd Snyder x P.F. Flyers Rambler Hi Leather Sneakers — $160

Richly crafted leather sneakers, fit for a tailgate and the bar afterwards.

In sticking with today’s collegiate — or at least, throwback — theme, let’s throw on some stylish leather sneakers — shall we? The handsome Todd Snyder x P.F. Flyers Rambler Hi was a featured entry in this site’s Style Pick of the Week series back in the summer, and these classic leather high-tops will also fit right in at a fall tailgate. That’s because of the rich brown leather and sturdy construction on the Rambler Hi — it’s nearly strong enough to rival your favorite leather boots.

The Belt: Sturdy Brothers Everyday Belt in Chestnut — $80

Sturdy Brothers

A tough belt made for chilly fall days and long hours spent tailgating.

If you were looking for an excuse to upgrade your everyday belt — pun intended — then the Sturdy Brothers Everyday Belt is giving you the chance to do just that … and in time for your next tailgate, too. With tough construction, handsome looks and hardware that can go the distance, this Sturdy Brothers belt is a winner in my book — leave no stone unturned when looking for subtly stylish ways to stand out as you, well, stand around the grill.

The Watch: Timex Waterbury Watch — $95

Tough design, standout looks and classic style — that’s Timex for ya.

If there’s one thing you can be sure of with this rugged, casual #menswear ensemble, it’s that a classic timepiece is absolutely needed. Yes, that’s right — even at a football tailgate, a watch like the Timex Waterbury is going to stand out for its subtle style, sturdy construction and timeless appeal. In short, you’ll stay on time to get from your tailgate to your seats in quick order with the stylish Timex Waterbury Watch — at least, this guy thinks so.
The Socks: Necessary Anywhere Three Sock in Black — $18

Simple socks that blend in with a laidback, football-ready ensemble.

Just as with your rugged leather watch, don’t skimp when it comes to accessories — particularly stylish men’s socks. The Necessary Anywhere  Three Socks are remarkably well-made for a pair of socks, featuring double-needle Jacquard knit construction and the type of simple style that works well with classic leather sneakers at a tailgate.

The Ballcap: Huckberry Explorer’s Cap — $39.98

A vintage ballcap for clean, simple style.

Before you head out the door, six-pack in hand, don’t forget a trusty ballcap — maybe a vintage-inspired ballcap, that is to say? With its classic design and crisp color, the Huckberry Explorer’s Cap in Black is yet another accessory that eschews the traditional logo-heavy approach. Oh, and it’s OK to mix the black of the Explorer’s Cap with the brown leather of your Todd Snyder x P.F. Flyers sneakers — it’s a casual affair, after all. You can wear the Explorer’s Cap no matter what team you rep.

The Essential: Orange Vessel Co. Stoneware Growler — $69.98

Don’t forget this durable, tough growler for your next tailgate — seriously.

What’s one more tailgate essential to grab before you head out the door? A durable growler, of course. Bring it filled with your host’s favorite brew or bring a little bit more for yourself — the functional, simple Orange Vessel Co. Stoneware Growler is practically a fall tailgate must-have. Guinness, anyone?
The Bottle Opener: Line of Trade Machined Steel Bottle Opener — $23.20
Line of Trade

A nice-to-have bottle opener can help out any tailgater in need — ehh?

Add one last small — yet equally important — item to your essential tailgating gear.  For all the folks out there who pass on beer out of your Orange Vessel Co. Stoneware Growler, you’ll be at the ready with a handy bottle opener from Line of Trade, ya dig? The Line of Trade Machined Steel Bottle Opener is suitably rugged and tailgate-ready. Bottoms up!

Now, who’s ready to get out there, crack open a cold one and enjoy a fall tailgate? I know I am — and hopefully, I’ll be able to get back to Michigan State to experience a perfect fall Saturday once more. For your own tailgate, I’d urge you to stock up on small but nice-to-have fall essentials, like a must-have growler and a durable bottle opener, and then focus on expert casual style in turn. That means a surprisingly stylish hooded sweatshirt from Flint and Tinder is in play, as is a uniquely vintage-inspired team T-shirt and of course, classic, American-made denim. Complement those easygoing pieces with rugged leather sneakers and a tough leather watch from Timex for tailgate style that’s eye-catching and yet seasonally appropriate. Finish it off with something like the Huckberry Explorer’s Cap, and I’d say your fall tailgate style is all set. What do ya think? Let me know in the comments below — and as always, catch me on Twitter!

Thanks for reading!

-Beau

by Beau H.

#OOTD: How to Wear a Rugged Overshirt This Fall

This week’s #OOTD fun on The Style Guide continues in fine fashion — or should I say, fall fashion? That’s right — we’re truly starting to get into rugged fall style on the blog, from the menswear to wear on a fall trip to today’s focus: How to wear a rugged overshirt this season.  The overshirt — particular a stylish Taylor Stitch overshirt as featured today — is as versatile a #menswear layering weapon as you’ve got in your fall style arsenal. Namely, it can function as both a shirt … and a jacket. For those days and nights when it’s not cold enough for a heavier top layer, an overshirt can pull double duty. Feel free to layer it over a slim striped henley or toss it on over another shirt — say, an American-made Oxford. Made with the right fabric (like the Japanese selvedge cotton found on the Taylor Stitch Maritime Shirt Jacket seen here), it’s going to provide warmth from the chill and earn you major style points at the same time. You’ll notice some other fall style touches, including stylish (yet tough!) Danner hiking boots and a classic field watch. This look is casual enough to fit in at an outdoor concert, it’s durable and rugged enough to wear to a fall tailgate … basically, a rugged overshirt is your ticket to versatile, casual style this season. Want more style tips? Follow me on Instagram. And let me know what you think of the below #OOTD in the comments below!

Rugged fall style

Classically rugged fall style — essential for a tailgate, a bonfire or a day trip. Gotta love the rugged Taylor Stitch Maritime Shirt Jacket as seen here.

The Overshirt: Taylor Stitch Maritime Shirt Jacket in Sea Washed Indigo, $118  (When Signing Up for Bespoke Post) — Ahh yes, the well-made, well-crafted and exceptionally stylish rugged overshirt we discussed earlier.  This Taylor Stitch Maritime Shirt Jacket features selvedge detailing and a modern fit.

The Henley: Taylor Stitch Mercerized Merino Henley, $125 — What are you layering under your Taylor Stitch overshirt? A rugged Taylor Stitch Mercerized Merino Henley, of course. The stripes add visual interest, and the merino wool adds breathability and classic fall style.

The Denim: DSTLD Slim Jeans in Charcoal Overdye, $85 — You could certainly throw on a pair of classic dark denim for monochromatic style, but these slim charcoal jeans from direct-to-consumer Los Angeles brand DSTLD offer a neat contrast in terms of color and texture.

The Boots:  Danner Vertigo 917 Boots, $220 — Now, you could easily swap in a pair of stylish leather sneakers here, yet these hybrid hiking boots from Danner convey both rugged style and functionality — a wise bet if you end up on your feet for longer than expected (perhaps an Octoberfest bar crawl, ehh?).

The Belt: Sturdy Brothers Everyday Belt in Chestnut, $80 — We always say that the little details make the difference here at The Style Guide, and this tough leather belt from Sturdy Brothers gets those details right.

The Socks: Arvin Goods Crew Socks (Three-pack) — $24 — If you read this blog regularly, you recognize the name Arvin Goods — the brand makes functional, understated socks at a great price. These affordable crew socks should team nicely with your Danner hiking boots.
The Watch: Momentum Watches Flatline 42 Fabric Watch, $164.98 — When your outfit is filled with adventure-ready pieces, it makes sense to grab a classic field watch. The Flatine 42 Fabric Watch from Momentum Watches gives you the durability and style you need.
The Fall Essential: Knight Co. Complete Moisturizer, $24 — Don’t overlook the importance of keeping your grooming game tuned up through the fall months — especially as colder weather descends. The Knight Co. Complete Moisturizer should prove both premium and quite helpful with that goal.

As October approaches and crisp weather rolls into town, I’d say you surely need a rugged layering piece with plenty of potential — the Taylor Stitch Maritime Shirt Jacket is going to be your ticket to essential fall style. From craft beer festivals to weekend coffee trips and perhaps a stylish fall weekend trip, there’s little that the Taylor Stitch Maritime Shirt Jacket can’t do. Particularly when layered up with a rugged striped henley — also from Taylor Stitch — you’re going to be set for fall weekends aplenty. Charcoal denim from DSTLD is a nice way to mix things up visually, while the Danner Vertigo 917 Boots offer both comfort and durability for all-day style. And with its subtly fashionable design and tough construction, the Flatine 42 Fabric Watch is the ideal casual men’s watch to offset this ensemble. Of course, no outfit is complete without taking care of your men’s grooming essentials — who else needs that Knight Co. moisturizer in their medicine cabinet? At any rate, I hope this #OOTD gets you thinking when it comes to rugged fall style. Who’s ready for the season? I sure am!

Thanks for reading and cheers,

-Beau

A

by Beau H.

#OOTD: Wear This Black Denim Jacket for Early Fall

How are you prepping for fall? And what are we excited about when it comes to #menswear? For your Style Guide author, I’m personally excited about a return to rugged layering in particular — including a refresher on how to wear a black denim jacket. Taking slightly unexpected, edgy pieces and mixing them together is one of the small joys of the season — take, for instance, the Roark Revival denim jacket we’re talking about in today’s #OOTD. It’s got just enough cool design touches to set it apart from your typical denim jacket, from the unique chest pocket detailing to the faded black color. And crucially, a jacket like the Roark Revival HWY 41 Jacket is going to be the perfect way to step into fall. It makes for a great layer on chilly weekend days and week nights alike, and that edgy style is going to help you go everywhere from a rock concert to a bar crawl to a weekend coffee run. When paired up with other fall style essentials — including classic suede chukka boots and a rugged striped henley — you’re going to be able to take on everything from a weekend getaway to a casual date night out seriously. So, are you ready to learn about your new favorite denim jacket? Good. Then let’s go! Follow me on Instagram for more insider style tips, plus a dose of craft beer and live music.

Rugged Fall Style

A mix of edgy pieces — like the Roark Revival denim jacket — and classic offerings, like a rugged henley.

The Jacket: Roark Revival HWY 41 Denim Jacket, $79.98 — As discussed above, the affordably priced, well-crafted and uniquely edgy Roark Revival HWY 41 Jacket is the unexpected fall layering piece you didn’t know you needed — until now.

The Henley: Taylor Stitch Mercerized Merino Henley, $98 (When Signing Up for Bespoke Post) — When is it worth it to pay nearly $100 for a henley? When that rugged henley is made by Taylor Stitch.

The Pants: Original Penguin P55 Brushed Cotton 5-Pocket Pant, $89 — Want to shake things up from your typical rotation of slim blue denim  this fall? Reach for a pair of tailored cotton 5-pocket pants for a bit of high-low style.

The Boots: Hudson Shoes Corelli Suede Dip Dye Boots, $198 (When Signing Up for Bespoke Post)  — Want a pair of footwear that’s going to fit right in with the rock n’roll vibes of this ensemble? Suede chukka boots are going to be your best bet — Hudson Shoes knocked it out of the park with the Corelli Suede Dip Dye Boots.

The Socks: Arvin Goods Crew Socks (Three-pack), $30 — Sustainably made, understated socks are what Arvin Goods excels at making — these stylish crew socks fit the bill nicely.

The Belt: Sturdy Brothers Everyday Belt in Natural, $80 — Don’t forget about the small style details. Particularly when your outfit is packed with rugged basics, your belt should fall in that same category aesthetically. Sturdy Brothers gets it right with the Everyday Belt.

The Watch: Szanto Aviator Automatic Watch — $289 — Rugged good looks, tough durability and a subtly stylish design make the Szanto Aviator Automatic Watch the right timepiece to offset this outfit.

The Grooming Essential: Blind Barber 60 Proof Hair Wax, $18 — What if I told you for under $20, you could get a true men’s grooming essential to help complement this sharp look? Easy choice, right?

When the foundation of your outfit is the rugged, edgy and unique Roark Revival HWY 41 Jacket, it makes filling in the pieces around it pretty easy. And when those pieces happen to include a mix of high-low style essentials like brushed cotton pants and a rugged striped henley? Well, the only question now is where that outfit can take you.   Stylish, sharp footwear like the  Corelli Suede Dip Dye Boots are a great way to step into early fall thanks to their unique texture and versatility, while a tough timepiece like the Szanto Aviator Automatic Watch  is going to complement plenty of seasonally ready outfits. Remember to turn to durable, dependable brands like Sturdy Brothers to upgrade your accessories, and know that the little touches in terms of grooming (like using Baxter of California hair wax) are going to take your ensemble to the next level. So, what do you think of this #OOTD? Where would you wear the Roark Revival HWY 41 Jacket this fall? 

Thanks for reading, as always!

-Beau

by Beau H.

Online Shopping Picks: Grab This New Gear for Early Fall

What exactly do we mean at The Style Guide when we say early fall gear? That’s the question, right? Well, we’re on the verge of September and if you haven’t put together your fall style wish list, perhaps it’s time to start thinking. We’ll be focused on my fall style favorites next week, but for now, let’s get a jump on shopping — shall we?  We’re digging into those nice-to-have essentials for when that first crisp breeze hits and you head out to a football tailgate or a day hike or a bonfire … or any other like-minded fall pursuits. When the time comes, you’ll, be ready. A handsome leather flask? You got it.  A rugged leather dopp kit for all your long weekends away?  It’s on this list below.  There a few other picks that straddle the line between apparel and handy everyday carry gear, and that’s a good thing — fall is perhaps the best season for #menswear, right? With that spirit in mind, let’s get to work. After all, fall’s on the way. If you want to see how I’m transitioning into the season, hit the “Follow” button on Instagram, or keep up with my of-the-moment musings on Twitter.

The Boots: Unmarked Roll-Top Desert Boots — $159.98

Classic, uniquely made and ready for fall adventures.

What would fall be without a unique, yet decidedly classic, pair of desert boots? Particularly early fall, ehh? Unmarked is making its Roll Top Desert Boots with both craftsmanship and flair — these feature a unique silhouette, handmade construction and a one-piece heel counter/ankle collar. Construction details aside, they’re the ideal pair of rugged (yet not over-the-top) classic desert boots to take you into early fall.

The Sweater: Flint and Tinder 10-Year Pullover in Navy — $89

Flint and Tinder

The type of hoodie you can wear over a classic Oxford — seriously.

Just as you need an easygoing pair of desert boots for all occasions — or nearly all occasions — so too do you need a stylish sweatshirt that’s truly a grab-and-go piece. The 10-Year Pocket Pullover from my pals at Flint and Tinder features better looks than your average hoodie, thanks to raglan stitching and no gaudy logo. Add in the soft fabric, the on-point fit and the array of color options, and the 10-Year Pocket Pullover is  a sweater that can go from the apple orchard to the bar, no sweat.

Gear Patrol American Craft Beer Field Guide — $9

Gear Patrol Field Guides

A trusty guide to take with you on a weekend trip.

While we’re out there talking rugged menswear like a classic hooded sweater and stylish desert boots, let’s talk about travel companions. Like, for instance, that trusty book you take with you wherever you go, and can pick up just about any time. The first of many Gear Patrol Field Guides fills that void if you happen to be a craft beer lover  (like me). And seeing as fall is a prime time for switching from light, crisp beers to richer brews, you best study up. Perfect for taking on a weekend away, preferably en route to a brewery.

The Flask: Slightly Alabama Hand-Stitched Leather Flask — $109.98

Ever seen a flask this cool? I certainly haven’t.

Ahh, here it is: The handcrafted, rugged leather flask we mentioned earlier. It’s the small pleasures in life that really count, and if ever you’ve wanted to take your favorite spirit to a tailgate or bonfire in style, this Slightly Alabama leather flask is the way to do it. With plenty of attention to detail and an aesthetic that doesn’t look half-bad resting on your mantle, Slightly Alabama has outdone themselves here — an expensive piece, but well worth it.

The Bonfire Essential: Sturdy Brothers Firewood Carry — $127

A heck of a way to haul your firewood — to say the least.

OK, maybe it’s not a full-on essential if you’re a city dweller like yours truly. And yet if you dwell outside the big city, why not grab something that’s rugged, durable and tough as nails to haul that firewood you’ll undoubtedly be chopping for bonfires aplenty? Again, do you need the Sturdy Brothers Firewood Carry? Ehh … perhaps  not. But will the Sturdy Brothers Firewood Carry work for seasons to come, through all types of weather? Absolutely.

The Travel Essential: Sturdy Brothers Horween Leather Dopp Kit — $138

Make this dopp kit the next addition to your weekender bag, yes?

OK, you’ve got your handy field guide, your rugged desert boots and your stylish weekender for an early fall getaway. What are you going to put your toiletries in for said getaway? Easy: The Sturdy Brothers Horween Leather Dopp Kit. Certainly, it’s a unique choice as far as dopp kits go, but the rugged leather and standout color of this stylish dopp kit will definitely help it fit in with the cooler climes of fall. It’s all about the details, yes?

We’re going to wrap this one up now — time to prep for fall, ehh? Transitioning from the heat of summer is all about reaching for pieces that are suited for all your fall adventures. Take rugged desert boots and a stylish casual sweater and wear ’em through plenty of weekends, for starts. And those everyday carry pieces that you can’t go on a trip without — like a uniquely stylish dopp kit — are going to serve you well, too. And then … because it’s fall … there are tough-as-nails pieces of gear that are just pleasing to have around. Take the Slightly Alabama leather flask as seen above, or the rough-and-ready Sturdy Brothers Firewood Carry.  After diving into this post, I’m certainly ready for a little early fall fun. How about you? You can check back here next week for our full Fall Style Wish List. Up next: A new See Now, Buy Now  post! 

Stay stylish!

-Beau

by Beau H.

#OOTD: An Updated Way to Wear Your New Oxford Shirt

If there’s one shirting style that tends to come up time after time here at The Style Guide, it might be the classic Oxford shirt. From a made-in-America Oxford shirt to the handsome Line of Trade navy Oxford shirt you’re going to read about today, there’s not a garment that more consistently works in so many style situations for today’s modern man (that’d be you!). Hopefully, you’ve already got one of the best Oxford shirts for men in your close. And although we talked about how to wear an Oxford shirt for summer, we’re shaking it up a little bit today. The below #OOTD is one that harnesses the best of end-of-summer style and yet uses rugged accessories like a heritage-quality leather belt and a tough stainless steel dive watch to nod toward the fact that fall is slowly but surely approaching.  Are you ready? I’m getting there.

Truly, I think you’ll find that the classic Oxford shirt seen below can work in all kinds of scenarios, from a casual weekend coffee run to a farmer’s market trip to a day at the office. That’s what we’re going for here, at least. And the great thing about your new favorite Oxford shirt is that it’ll work with plenty of pieces you’ve already got in your closet, from American-made denim to tailored sweatpants and crisp leather sneakers for a very laidback Sunday brunch. What do you say? Shall we get after it? Chime in on the below in the comments or on Twitter once you’ve checked out the #OOTD below. Shop on!

Line of Trade

Take that navy Oxford and pair it with slim chinos and classic kicks to step into September (and beyond).

The Oxford Shirt: Line of Trade Navy Oxford, $70 – Let’s kick it off with a modern-fitting, garment-washed Oxford shirt in a slightly different deep navy color. Ready to wear with anything — slim chinos included.

The Chinos: Banana Republic Aiden Slim Rapid Movement Chino, $98 — A recent addition to the BR line, these stretch chinos combine a tailored fit with a range of color options — although the shade seen here is perhaps most versatile.

The Sneakers:  Rancourt and Co. Carson Low in Natural Canvas, $175 — Made in America to exacting standards, these Rancourt and Co. sneakers are a more durable answer to classic white canvas sneakers — and all the better for it.

The Socks: Arvin Goods No-show Socks, $30 (Three-pack) — Because it’s not quite fall yet, we’re still rolling up our chinos to show off those USA-made sneakers — and Arvin Goods no-show socks are critical in that regard.

The Belt: Sturdy Brothers Everyday Belt in Chestnut, $80 — Tired of buying cheap accessories? This handsome, extremely well-made Sturdy Brothers belt is the upgrade you need for fall.

The Watch:  Timex Stainless Steel Waterbury Watch, $119 — Told you we’d be breaking out durable everyday accessories, right? This rugged stainless steel dive watch from Timex is a steal in terms of price and looks.

The Sunglasses: Classic Specs Lowerree Aviators, $88 — Perhaps you’re not familiar with Classic Specs  — I know I wasn’t — but pieces like these stylish Aviator sunglasses should change that in a hurry.

The Everyday Carry: Nisolo Lori Leather Tote, $134.98 — Wary of carrying a rugged leather tote when you normally haul around a stylish messenger bag? This handsome leather tote bag  is a new way to switch up your everyday carry.

Alright, then. Have a better idea of how to wear your new favorite Oxford shirt? When you start with a piece as classic and simply constructed as the Line of Trade navy Oxford shirt shown above, the possibilities are nearly endless. However, your Style Guide author thinks that keeping things straightforward is the best way to go. That is to say, slim chinos and natural canvas sneakers from Rancourt and Co. are standout building blocks for any outfit.  Add in fall-ready accessories like a rugged stainless steel dive watch from Timex  and a durable leather belt from Sturdy Brothers, and you’re set for this #OOTD — and plenty more outfits in the season ahead.  No outfit — especially one featuring a classic navy Oxford shirt — is complete without finishing touches like stylish Aviator sunglasses and a handsome leather tote bag, though. So, just as with many of your other favorite #menswear pieces, the little details matter, and starting things off with easily wearable essentials is the best way to say goodbye to one season and look toward the next.

Hope you enjoyed today’s post — and thanks for reading!

-Beau

by Beau H.

#OOTD: How to Layer Up for A Breezy Summer Night

Ready for today’s #OOTD? I hope you are — I sure am. Although we’re (sadly) getting down to the last few weeks of summer here, I assure you that today’s post is jammed with summer style essentials that still function well into the early fall.  Growing up in Michigan, I loved going to bonfires with family and friends, or spending nights on a river or lake enjoying a S’more and taking in the simpler things in life — it’s tough to find time to do that in NYC. Yet, if youre’ lucky enough to have another bonfire or backyard BBQ coming up, there’s a chance that once the sun sets, things will get a bit chilly. Not “polar vortex” cold, but breezier nonetheless. And when that time comes, you want #menswear that works with you — not against you. Men’s style staples that are crisp-yet-casual, easy to wear and easy to layer are going to be critical. You certainly want to dress for the occasion — think of it like dressing for a summer BBQ, where you’re there for a great time and ready for anything (don’t forget the beer). Keep these essentials around, and you’ll be glad you prepared accordingly — among my favorite picks from this #OOTD, I sure do love the Life/After/Denim Awash Hoodie, and I think you’ll find it’s a perfect casual menswear essential. What about the rest of these picks? Read on, shop away and catch up with me on Instagram to see how I’m spending these last few weeks of summer.

 

men's style essentials

Light, easygoing menswear staples for a breezy summer evening around a bonfire or at the beach.

The Hoodie: Life/After/Denim Awash Hoodie, $80 —  The breezy, casual Awash Hoodie features an absolutely perfect blend of laidback style and premium quality. It doesn’t look half-bad if your date needs to borrow it, either.

The Tee: Flint and Tinder Slub Tee in White, $38 — What’s more American and summer-friendly than a classic white T-shirt? Not a lot. Flint and Tinder makes its Slub Tee with just the right amount of comfort and rugged appeal.

The Denim: Nudie Jeans Grim Tim, $140.98 — While you could easily reach for a pair of classic summer shorts, the light wash of the Nudie Jeans Grim Tim plays nicely off the dark blue Life/After/Denim sweater. Ya dig?

The Belt: Sturdy Brothers Everyday Belt in Natural, $80 — That perfect, rugged yet wearable everyday belt (pun intended here) can be quite tough to find. This handsome Sturdy Brothers belt should certainly do the trick, yeah?

Timex

The Sneakers: SeaVees Maslon Desert Boot, $82.98 — What better classic sneakers to slip into than a pair of well-made, affordably priced and easygoing SeaVees sneakers?

The Socks: CHUP Labdien Socks, $16 — Cool, casual style calls for rolled light wash denim, classic white sneakers and stylish men’s socks with enough personality to speak for themselves after you’ve ditched your sneakers.

Florsheim

The Watch: Komrade Urban Diver Watch, $429 — There’s no better way to cap off an outfit filled with breezy, casual staples than by throwing on a tough-yet casual, rugged dive watch — right? Yes indeed — and Komrade surely makes an investment-worthy timepiece.

Save up to 25% each month by joining Style Plan at Frank + Oak! *Free Shipping & Returns. No code necessary. Monthly membership for men & women.

The Essential: Orange Vessel Co. Stoneware Growler, $68.99  — Craft beer delivered in a stylish, durable growler — definitely an essential for your next bonfire. This one from Orange Vessel Co. is pleasing, well-made and easy to transport.

When we talk layers and essential, casual men’s style, I’d say a piece like the Life/After/Denim Awash Hoodie makes perfect sense for a breezy summer night around a campfire or at a cabin on a lake.  It’s a reliable, easygoing piece to slip on over a well-made, classic white T-shirt  from Flint and Tinder  — you’ll get a lot of mileage out of that combo as long as you step into versatile, slim light wash jeans. And on the accessories front, don’t skimp when it comes time to put on a rugged dive watch or load up a durable growler full of your favorite beer. Sneaker-wise, I’d say that classic SeaVees sneakers are always in play — particularly for kicking back on a patio with good friends and family. What’s on your #menswear list when it comes time to dress for a shindig in late summer? Let me know on Twitter or in the comments below — thanks for reading!

-Beau

Greats

by Beau H.

#OOTD: Here’s The Rugged Henley to Wear This Summer

If there’s one item I reach for more consistently than any other — no matter the season — it’s got to be a rugged men’s henley. Yes indeed, in the high heat of summer (the perfect time for a short-sleeve henley) and the chilling depths of winter (hello, slim long-sleeve henley), it’s simply an easy-to-wear, effective and stylish choice. But you knew that, right? After all, we talked this spring about how to upgrade your henley. There’s no question that it can easily layer under your favorite summer blazer or be worn on its own — crucially. And today’s all-new, hyper-stylish #OOTD here on The Style Guide covers perhaps the best short-sleeve henley to buy now — or at least, consider buying. And if you read the blog frequently — and shop the hallowed halls of Style Guide friend Huckberry — you should know the brand that makes it: The inimitable folks at Flint and Tinder.

As it were, the centerpiece of today’s outfit is the Flint and Tinder Supima AirKnit Henley, done up in comfortable, breathable fabric with a modern fit. The rest of this ensemble has all the trappings of a rugged, tough outfit that someone like, say, noted henley wearer Mr. Daniel Craig might enjoy wearing.  At any rate, I hope you’re excited to check out some slim dark blue denim, classic men’s boots and a few other hard-wearing touches — including a rugged casual watch. If I were you, I’d wear this outfit out to your next brew pub crawl or even a quick day trip out to the country. And it’s even got a couple pieces — like a stylish everyday backpack — that might get you from point A to point B in many a situation. I don’t want to ruin all the fun, though. Read on below and let me know how you like these #menswear picks!

Rugged men's henley

Take your (new) favorite rugged henley and layer it with a crisp bomber jacket, dark denim and tough boots — wear it now sans jacket, and keep this look handy come fall.

The Henley: Flint and Tinder Supima AirKnit Henley, $55 — First things first: Don’t be alarmed by the use of black here! This Flint and Tinder henley is crisp and slimming, and gents like Daniel Craig  make frequent use of black tees on their own.

The Bomber: Taylor Stitch Bomber Jacket in Charcoal, $188 — If you know Taylor Stitch, you know that they excel at tough, rugged and yet wearable pieces — this Taylor Stitch bomber jacket works for cool summer evenings and chillier fall days in equal measure.

The Denim: Abercrombie & Fitch Langdon Slim Coolmax Jeans, $88 — A&F, a favorite of The Style Guide, is back with a revamped denim line featuring revamped fits — the Langdon is slim, classic and wearble in August thanks to Coolmax technology.

The Belt: Sturdy Brothers Everyday Belt in Chestnut, $80 — Lest you think accessories don’t matter … think again. The folks at Sturdy Brothers make a heritage-quality belt that happens to mesh perfectly with this look.

The Boots: Astorflex Bootflex in Dark Khaki, $190 — Quality lace-up boots made with sustainable style in mind for under $200? That’s what you get with the surprisingly lightweight Astorflex Bootflex.

(Not Pictured) The Socks: Teva Benny Gold Socks (Limited Edition), $12 — Space can be limited in our #OOTD series, but socks that offer up a pop of pleasingly bright blue should pair well with the A&F dark blue denim.

The Watch: Lum-Tec Combat B35 Automatic Watch, $799.98 — You might say this rugged Lum-Tec watch is the grandaddy of them all. Beastly looks, excellent styling potential, rugged vibes, a handsome leather strap … the  Lum-Tec Combat B35 belongs on any wish list of the best men’s gear.

The Backpack: Topo Designs Klettersack, $188 — Don’t get me wrong, I love a stylish messenger bag as much as the next guy. But if you want a grab-and-go bag for a day trip or a bar crawl — particularly when paired with a rugged menswear ensemble — the Topo Designs Klettersack could be your best bet.

The Sunscreen: Salt & Stone Sunscreen (SPF 30) , $17.99 — Sunscreen is one of those things that’s likely the last item tossed in any bag — with Salt & Stone‘s crisp design (and important functionality!), you won’t forget it again.

Have you given any thought as to where you might take this outfit? It can go just about anywhere — an upstate day trip, a trip to the farmer’s market and your local park, an afternoon at your favorite watering hole … and I’d wager it’s all because of the rugged versatility of the Flint and Tinder henley shown here. And because it can go anywhere, it’s important you grab a similarly tough bag. For instance: Take the Topo Designs Klettersack and fill it with essentials like the Taylor Stitch Bomber Jacket and much-needed Salt & Stone sunscreen. And the best part is that you can easily complement your Flint and Tinder henley with other rugged basics, from dark denim to the crisp, stylish Astorflex Bootflex. What you’ve got on your wrist is equally important — my favorite part of this ensemble might be the Lum-Tec Combat B35. And if you read this blog, you know that the details make the difference — start with a heritage-quality belt and go from there.

Let me know: What do you think of this rugged #OOTD? Drop a line in the comments!

Thanks so much for reading,

-Beau

by Beau H.

#OOTD: A New Way to Wear Your Favorite Graphic Tee For Summer

We’ve all got that one perfectly broken-in T-shirt we love to wear — right? A well-worn, well-loved tee that’s likely seen a lot. And yet … what if I told you that same style was available in a distinctly modern (and likely less hole-y) T-shirt from your favorite menswear designer? Yes indeed, folks. Today’s #OOTD is all about how to wear a graphic tee for summer… for grown-ups. That means one of the best T-shirts for men, crucially. So, no loud or ostentatious designs, no bright or overly flashy colors … just a simple, well-made and vintage-inspired tee paired up with like-minded essentials. Think American-made denim, stylish leather sneakers and a rugged leather watch.

This right here is the sort of outfit you can wear to your favorite brewery, your favorite coffee shop or your favorite deli — you name it, it’s nearly perfect for laidback, easygoing summer days. Just add a stylish jacket and consider yourself set for days and days of fun in the sun. I promise you, it’ll all work out. Shop the #OOTD below, chime in with your thoughts on Twitter and check out my Instagram account for more ways to stylish your new favorite tee. See you out there — cheers!

 

A smart-looking graphic tee, this time paired up with American-made denim, clean sneakers and a tough leather watch.

The Tee: Todd Snyder x Champion Track Graphic Tee, $60— Yes, it’s true. Todd Snyder makes a heck of an essential graphic tee, what with a simple-yet-interesting design in cool color combo that’s relatively easy to wear.

The Denim: Flint and Tinder All-American Jeans in Slim or Straight Tapered, $88.98— Whichever fit and wash you like, feel free to take those jeans and mash ’em up with this outfit. For what it’s worth, your Style Guide author loves the fit and fabric of the Flint and Tinder All-American Jeans.

Nautica

The Sneakers: JAK Empire Sneakers, $119.98 — JAK is a brand that you might say has flown under the radar, yet these classically inspired sneakers in a crisp silhouette team up quite nicely with the easygoing graphic tee and slim light wash denim.

The Socks: Arvin Goods No-show Socks, $30 (Exclusive Three-pack)  — Your Style Guide team of one continues to go to bat for the sustainably made, comfortable and easy-to-wear  Arvin Goods No-show socks. You’ll need a pair — or three — for the rest of the summer.

Timex

The Belt: Sturdy Brothers Everyday Belt in Chestnut, $80 — A rugged belt built with casual, sturdy style in mind is exactly what you need to offset an outfit that’s equally rugged and casual. Sturdy Brothers does the trick.

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The Watch: Halios Laguna Watch, $675 — If you want a remarkably striking, tough and well-crafted watch, you’re going to want the Halios Laguna Watch. The bold style of this timepiece offsets the simple tee quite nicely.

The Sunglasses: Steven  Alan Bristol Sunglasses in Brushed Dark Gunmetal, $265 — A vintage-inspired tee, tough American-made denim and a stylish leather watch call for suitably striking accessories, like the utterly classic Steven Alan Bristol Sunglasses.

The Hat: FairEnds Brushed Cotton Ballcap in Beach Olive, $48 — Whether you’re hopping from patio to patio or bar to bar, a simple cotton ballcap shields your face from the sun and adds a nice topper to this casual outfit.

That’ll do it for today’s #OOTD. When wearing something as pared-down as a vintage-inspired graphic tee, standout complementary pieces really get the chance to shine. So, that puts the focus squarely on your stylish leather sneakers (how about those JAKS Empire Sneakers, ehh?), as well as handy everyday essentials like the handsome Halios Laguna Watch.  Let’s not forget slim denim, though — Flint and Tinder makes some of the best men’s jeans around. Finish it off with the ever-stylish Steven Alan Bristol Sunglasses and a casual ballcap, and I’d wager you’ll be set for a couple rounds at your favorite craft beer bar.  What’s your take on this #OOTD? Will you be adding any items to your rotation?

Thanks again for reading — stay stylish!

-Beau