Tag / style guide

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: Labor Day Weekend, MAHI Leather and Faherty Brand

A rugged, richly crafted leather tote that you can customize as you’d like — read more below.

In today’s Friday Read, we’ve got a lot of ground to cover before we head into Labor Day weekend. I hope your week has been an enjoyable one, packed with the best in #menswear.  It’s been busy around these parts. This blog in the past few weeks has covered what to wear for Labor Day weekend, the chukka boots to buy for fall and plenty more. Let’s pivot, for a second, to how you’re going to haul your everyday carry this weekend and beyond. I think I’ve got a solution to share if you’ve been looking for the answer. That solution, folks, is MAHI Leather and the company’s essential, handcrafted line of durable, functional and great-looking leather goods. In particular, I’ve been hauling around the brand’s Classic Leather Tote in a handsome shade of brown leather courtesy of MAHI– it’s served me so well, I took it to Lollapalooza 2017, as you can see above. And if you follow me on Instagram, you’ve seen that this bag is plenty versatile and durable.


For your next weekend adventure and well beyond, I’d say you should consider making the brand a part of your travel gear — the leather is soft and supple, the quality is on-point and the chance to customize the Classic Leather Tote was quite neat. With that being said, I’m going to use that tote to haul around some craft beer and a few other menswear essentials in the days ahead. Speaking of #menswear essentials — we’ve got a few choice reads for you, plus details on an excellent Labor Day weekend sale, detailed in the rest of this post below. Let me know on Twitter how you’re spending the weekend — and reader feedback is always welcome in the comments! Without further ado … let’s close out the summer in style and look toward a heck of a season ahead.

A handsome washed buttondown from Faherty Brand is but one of my picks from the brand’s Labor Day weekend sale.

  • Doing some shopping to close out summer? You might be in luck when it comes to stellar #menswear — Faherty Brand, purveyors of breezy, casual style — are offering an extra 25 percent off all sale items to celebrate the holiday! And there are some excellent picks in that list, from striped tees to indigo buttondowns, including my personal favorite pick as seen above. Get to shopping, yeah?

  • Elsewhere on the men’s style front, lovers of classic men’s sneakers should rejoice. GQ.com dives into the one sneaker that — unexpectedly — stokes the sneaker-loving fires of plenty of menswear fans: The J. Crew x Nike Killshot 2. If you’ve ever pined for these sneakers or tried (and failed) to get your hands on a pair, you’re not alone.
  • Let’s talk accessories really quickly — if you’re new to the blog, allow me to introduce you to our Saturday Style Pick of the Week series. This week’s stylish entry is coming tomorrow, but last week’s entry covers a rugged leather watch fit for all kinds of wear this upcoming fall. Certainly, you should add it to your everyday carry haul. The Halios Laguna Watch also comes with a stainless steel strap — two stylish men’s watches for the (investment-level) price of one. So, that’s just a taste of our weekly Style Pick series. Come through tomorrow for more!
  • And before we take off for the long weekend, let’s look again toward fall menswear essentials. As it were, my latest post for The Manual does just that — I take a dive into the brands making fall’s best leather jackets. Splurge or save, spend or wait it out a little bit; it’s a seasonal style staple that you surely need.

Ladies and gentlemen, thanks so much for reading — I hope everyone has a safe and enjoyable Labor Day weekend! If you check back tomorrow, we’ll have a new Style Pick of the Week waiting. And if you check back on Sunday … we very well might just have a new See Now, Buy Now post for you. I can’t guarantee anything, but I know a guy  …

See you soon,

-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.

Windy City Style: A Summer Weekend in Chicago

Checking out The Bean and Millenium Park on an outstanding summer day in the city. Wearing an American Giant tee and my Need Supply Co. denim jacket, with hair styling courtesy of AXE. Shot by Olivia Hayhoe on an iPhone 7 Plus.

Now, I know what you’re thinking. Wasn’t I just in Chicago? This month even? Yes indeed, Style Guide readers, my travels took me to Chicago for Lollapalooza 2017 just a few short weeks ago and yet … I’m back! Or at least, I was back this past weekend for a family weekend in the Windy City.  My last trip to the city involved a healthy dose of excellent music — including a terrific live show by The Killers — and I was just as excited to be back this time. Incredibly, I’ve even got a fall trip back to Chicago planned, whereby I’ll be sure to pack plenty of fall menswear essentials. Yet, these past few days were about reconnecting with family, exploring the city and catching up with friends right before the end of summer … all in style, of course!

The rest of my family made the trek to take in Chicago’s version of the famed American musical “Hamilton” … while I gave up my seat to my young nephew (Hi, Charlie!), leaving me more time to get out and about in Chicago. That entailed a post-dinner trek to famed indie venue Metro Chicago to see a great indie pop show by Ernest Greene (known by his stage moniker Washed Out).  I’ve gotten quite practiced at loading up my stylish weekender bag with gear to take on the season, from versatile outerwear to a slim chambray shirt and classic sneakers, and this weekend proved no different. Just remember: Going from city to city still calls for on-point travel style. So, let’s get to it.

Men's travel style

Breezy essentials for summer travel, starting with my Grayers Montreaux Windbreaker and carrying through to stylish Frank and Oak leather sneakers and my reliable Huckberry Explorer’s Cap.

Heading straight to the airport in the morning on Friday called for versatile, easygoing style — just as with my last trip to Chicago. Starting with a solid base layer is always key (especially when dealing with airport A/C), so my Grayers Montreaux Windbreaker, a classically designed jacket you might recognize from my Style Pick of the Week series, was the way to go. With its light weight and easy-to-style design, the Montreaux Windbreaker teamed nicely with my equally laidback-yet-polished Mott and Bow denim shirt. Perhaps you recognize the new line of Mott and Bow denim shirts from this site’s Style Pick of the Week series, and I’d say any of the brand’s denim shirts would be a versatile bet the next time you need to throw on a crisp, casual top for travel.  The soft fabric and nicely tailored-but-mobile fit of this slim denim shirt made it an ideal airport layering move, while a new pair of Banana Republic Rapid Movement Chinos offered just the right blend of comfort and stretch.

The whole combo was topped off with my trusty-as-ever Huckberry Explorer’s Cap, a pleasingly vintage-inspired ballcap I love to throw on any time I need to keep the sun off my face.  On the footwear front, a pair of Idyllwild Pull-Up Leather Sneakers from favorite menswear retailer Frank and Oak helped me move around the city with sharp looks and wearbility in mind. And to stay on time, I threw on my trusty Timex x Red Wing Waterbury Chrono, a standout piece from the Timex Waterbury line that looks rugged and goes just about anywhere (particularly with a classic windbreaker and a stylish denim shirt). Want a winning formula for travel style? Pair mobile stretch chinos with leather sneakers and a comfortable shirt featuring textured fabric. 

It’s a good thing I was prepped with versatile menswear, because Friday packed in a heck of a lot of exploration and great times around the Windy City. Our accomodations at TheWit Chicago were outstanding — right in the the heart of downtown Chicago, this modern hotel provided a sleek backdrop and stellar views from its roof bar (the ideal spot to knock back a few Bell’s beers — good to be back in the Midwest!). And Friday night’s dinner, featuring family-style pizza, cheese plates and plenty of bread and olive oil, was nothing less than excellent. The next time you get to Chicago, I’d recommend you stop by Quartino!

Mixing earthy tones and casual, versatile staples like an American Giant pima tee and Banana Republic’s Rapid Movement Chinos alongside the CLAE Bradley Mid.

And with Friday in the books, Saturday dawned with the promise of an exciting full day getting to know Chicago more. Seeing as Lollapalooza was packed wall-to-wall with music and I hadn’t visited since college, that left plenty to do — including lots of time spent strolling through MilleniuM Park. As per usual, I prepped with the best men’s gear that I could possibly muster, including a mix of high-low, casual style led by a crisp charcoal pair of my Banana Republic Rapid Movement Chinos. Seriously, if there’s a pair of chinos that combines better range of movement or a more crisp look — the tab closure waist helps with that — I’ve yet to find ’em.  My charcoal chinos matched up nicely with a well-made, breathable Amerian Giant Premium Crew Tee in Drab Olive — a nice contrast of earthy tones that worked well to go from Millenium Park to cool spots like Raised, an urban rooftop spot outfitted with industrial fixtures, premium cocktails and local craft beer.

Saturday’s full ensemble for exploring Millenium Park, highlighted by my CLAE Bradley Mid Sneakers, plus my trusty Need Supply Co. denim jacket and the TImex x Todd Snyder Military Watch.

Like other American-made menswear that I favor, I think you’ll find a simple, stylish T-shirt works with anything on vacation.  The key to a versatile look came from my  Need Supply Co. Denim Jacket in 96, another piece that proved a favorite at Lollapalooza 2017   — it worked just as well this time around, especially as a shot of color to contrast my rich Cocoa Leather Bradley Mid Sneakers from CLAE. This style is comfortable and durable, and for this late August trip, that made them a prime footwear pick. That comfort definitely helped me get around in style — my MVMT Watches Runaway Aviators also helped shield my eyes from the hot Chicago sun, and we took the chance to keep the afternoon rolling. The Chicago Athletic Association Hotel, completely refurbished and recently reopened, harkens back to the city’s glamour and refinement of years gone by. It comes complete with a rotating pop-up bar on the ground floor, plus a game room and  a neat rooftop bar with great lakefront views.

A stylish weekender bag, American Giant shorts and a breezy chambray shirt made for easy travel style.

But as always seems to be the case, the weekend drew to a close too quickly. I had just enough time for a delicious Sunday brunch at the uniquely ’70s-inspied HopCat Chicago lounge before departing the Windy City yet again — and I dressed in casual, breezy travel style to take on the day. For a bit of tailored style mixed with supreme comfort, my all-new American Giant Weekend Shorts — made from hefty rugby jersey cotton — were perfect for a flight back to NYC. And to mix in some high-low style, I threw on my trusty United By Blue Wenlock Chambray Shirt. What with breathable fabric and a neat pattern, the Wenlock Chambray Shirt added some contrast to my laidback CLAE Hayward Sneakers, at once retro and yet crisply modern. And on the accessories front, a handy travel kit and men’s grooming essentials from Baxter of California paired up perfectly together, while my rugged-yet-accessible Timex Waterbury Chrono Diver helped me stay on time in casual style. In all, the laidback, breezy style ensemble helped me make it back to NYC in good time and in good style.

I hope you spent your weekend in the same way I did — with great friends and family, enjoying great times. You can  be sure I’m already looking forward to my next trip — to Chicago or elsewhere. To keep up with my travels and my style tips, check out my Instagram. And tomorrow, you can join us for another #OOTD. Until then, stay stylish!

-Beau

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: Essential Everyday Carry Gear, Craft Beer and Nisolo Shoes

Can you believe another week is in the books? Heck, can you believe I’m in Chicago again for the second time this month? I certainly can’t — and yet, today’s edition of the Friday Read is coming to you live from the Windy City. I trekked to Chicago just a few short weeks ago for Lollapalooza 2017, and had a great weekend dressed in ideal music festival style. This time around, I’m meeting my family back in the Midwest for a weekend of city exploration and crucially, a family trip to see lauded American musical “Hamilton.” Having seen the show twice already, I gave up my ticket to my young nephew, a budding musical enthusiast and huge fan of the standout musical. So, that’ll free up some time for me to explore all that Chicago has to offer — anywhere that’s a must-see on your list? I’m looking forward to hitting up the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel, a refined, old-school art-deco spot with (apparently) a neat speakeasy. That’s just one of many stops I’ll be making, though. Follow along with all the action on Instagram, and be sure to check back here for a full #menswear trip recap on Monday. Until then — stay stylish and enjoy the below weekend reading picks!

  • Fall is a great time to hit the road for day or weekend trips — heading to a winery, a brewery, an orchard … you name it, and it should definitely involve essential travel style. To that end, I rounded up the best everyday carry gear for your next drive. Head to GearMoose to check it out.
  • We enjoy talking craft beer around these parts — to say the least. With that in mind, I point you toward The Manual — my colleague Lee Heidel is taking you into a new initiative from the Brewers Association to properly label beer from breweries that fit the definition of “craft.” It’s a worthy cause that might just make you love your favorite beer even more — agreed?

  • Let’s stick with the latest happenings at The Manual — shall we? Namely, I rounded up my favorite picks from Nisolo, the ethically crafted footwear makers behind a whole host of stylish chukka boots, rugged sneakers and plenty more. Shop away!

OK, everyone — we’re keeping it short this week! Enjoy the weekend, and check back for tomorrow’s Style Pick of the Week.

Thanks for reading!

-Beau

by Beau H.

See Now, Buy Now: Add to Your Watch Collection with the Timex Waterbury Stainless Steel Dive Watch

Timex Waterbury

One heck of a watch for the price — maybe one to buy right now, as it were?

One of the things that comes up a lot at The Style Guide (weekly? daily?) is the importance of buying quality, affordable and versatile #menswear pieces. From a classic Oxford shirt to a rugged henley to slim, American-made denim, that type of quality and wearability is out there — if only you know where to look. Such is the case with Timex, a brand that you might have glazed over in the past, one that now deserves a second, or third, look. And in the latest entry in our ongoing See Now, Buy Now series, we’re giving the rugged, essential Timex Waterbury Stainless Steel Dive Watch a close look — it’s among the best men’s casual watches to buy now, I can say that much.  The Waterbury Stainless Steel Diver plays off the brand’s vintage-leaning, stylish Waterbury line — surely, you’ll recognize the rugged Timex x Red Wing Waterbury Chrono from the pages of this blog. The Waterbury Stainless Steel Diver is in a league of its own, starting with the standout price and carrying right on through to its handsome, subtly stylish and easily wearable aesthetic.

It’s a rugged men’s dive watch that gets the look right without a cluttered design. While it’s not exactly made for plunging into great depths in the ocean, it’s a daily watch that’s more than serviceable thanks to the classic durability for which Timex is known. For you and me both, that’s great news. And the better news? You can get it via Bespoke Post, purveyors of plenty more of your favorite #menswear.  If there’s one watch to wear to the office with a classic navy blazer during the week while also teaming it with a rugged short-sleeve henley on the weekend, it’s the Waterbury Stainless Steel Diver. Folks, that type of affordable style can’t be emphasized enough. And a rugged stainless steel dive watch is the perfect piece to add a bit of toughness and visual interest to cold-weather outfits, too — perfect given that we’ll be into fall before you know it. With all that being said … I can’t recommend the Waterbury Stainless Steel Diver enough. That’s as true right now as it’ll be when fall hits.

Shop away, and thanks for reading!

-Beau

by Beau H.

#OOTD: Wear This Outfit on Your Next Weekend Trip

Come along for the ride today on The Style Guide as we dive into an #OOTD that should come in pretty darn handy over these next few weeks and months. Folks, we’re talking today about a stylish, mobile and versatile #menswear look to wear on your next weekend trip. And we’re building it from the ground up, focused on wearable classics like stylish leather chukka boots and a durable, great-looking weekender bag. Whether this outfit takes you to a quaint country town, a friend’s house or an upstate trip — or, dare I say it, a “staycation” — I think you’ll be ready for the road, followed by a stop at a new favorite watering hole. Truly all the goods are here. I’m telling ya, you’re gonna love this Taylor Stitch shirt-jacket and the casual staple pieces we’re pairing it with,  It’s an outfit that’s just a bit rugged, just a bit refined and very ready for nearly anything. We’ve got a few choice layers to combat late summer and early fall breezes, plus a stylish leather watch to wear as you travel, too. All sounds pretty great, right? Dive in, leave any feedback below and hop on over to my Instagram or The Style Guide Facebook page if you can’t get enough of what we’re serving up.

Layer right on up with a stylish shirt-jacket, a classic Oxford and other staples ready for travel or play.

The Top Layer: Taylor Stitch Maritime Shirt Jacket, $148 — Seeing as chillier temperatures are approaching, it’s a wise bet to outfit yourself with a rugged shirt-jacket that slips on and off with ease — Taylor Stitch makes one of the best out there.

The Oxford: Flint and Tinder Texas-Made Oxford, $89 — If there’s one workhorse you need in your bag for a weekend trip, it’s  a classic Oxford shirt. Try this charcoal Oxford from Flint and Tinder — it’ll play nicely off the Taylor Stitch shirt-jacket, and it’s made in America.

The Chinos: Banana Republic Aiden Slim Rapid Movement Chino, $98 — A relatively recent offering from a brand that specializes in versatile gear for the modern man, these stretch chinos are perfect for a day of travel.

The Chukka Boots: Nisolo Luca Chukka Boot, $174.98 — Packing light on the footwear front is easy when you wear classic chukka boots like the Nisolo Luca Chukka Boot — agreed? Agreed.

The Socks: (Not Pictured) Anonymousism Cotton Stripe Sock in Khaki, $8 — You’d do well to stock up for your trip on at least a few sets of affordable, stylish and unique Anonymousism patterned socks.

The Briefs: Bread and Boxers Boxer Briefs in Black, $18 — Comfort and simple looks are two qualities you should always keep top of mind when packing (and wearing) briefs — Bread and Boxers will sort you out nicely.

The Watch: Timex Waterbury in Red Wing Leather, $139 — Just as with your classic Oxford, there’s one other essential you’re going to want to keep handy, and that’s the ever-stylish Timex Red Wing Waterbury. Durable, tough and sharp.

The Weekender: Bradley Mountain Utility Bag in Brush Brown, $159 — Sized just right for a few nights away, this handsome, rugged and stylish weekender bag from Bradley Mountain should be your next luggage purchase.

The Wallet: Herschel Supply Co. Raynor Passport Wallet in Nubuck, $49.99 — Even if you’re not heading overseas, having a useful, utilitarian-yet-stylish passport wallet like this one from Herschel Supply is a solid way to round out your everyday carry.

Well, do you think we packed enough essentials for your trip? Starting with a durable pair of leather chukka boots and a stylish weekender bag only sets you up for success — and layering accordingly keeps you traveling in style, too. I can’t say enough about the rugged versatility of the Taylor Stitch Maritime Shirt Jacket — it’s seriously perfect for chilly evenings and day trips alike. And we’d be remiss if we left out a classic Oxford like the one seen above from Flint and Tinder, another remarkably wearable addition to your travel gear. Well-considered details like Anonymousism patterned socks are also the name of the game, and the Red Wing Waterbury from Timex is a watch that could feasibly never leave your wrist throughout the trip. Have any questions on how to pack for your trip or what to wear on the road? Shoot me a note on Twitter — let’s talk menswear!

Thanks so much for reading,

-Beau

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Hudson Shoes Lewiston Chukka

Hudson Shoes

The handsome pair of chukka boots to get you ready for fall.

Alright, Style Guide readers. I’ve got good news and … more good news. The good news is that you’re really going to like today’s Style Pick of the Week. The better news is that we’re one week closer to everyone’s favorite #menswear season — fall. OK, maybe jumping the gun a bit (or a lot). And yet, it pays to be prepared when it comes to the best men’s gear for the season — right? So, let me introduce you to the Hudson Shoes Lewiston Chukka. Yes indeed, the Lewiston Chukka is a heck of a pair of chukka boots to put on your shopping list for fall. Heck, they can help you step into any situation in style, at any point in the year. Seriously. A classic pair of men’s chukka boots can work wonders with the simplest outfits. A stylish Oxford shirt and slim dark denim? Throw on leather chukka boots. Slim grey denim, a henley and a blue denim jacket? Lace up the Hudson Shoes Lewiston Chukka. A herringbone blazer and navy chinos when the fall rolls around? The Lewiston Chukka is your best bet. And the best part is, you can get ’em for a nice deal through Bespoke Post. The cognac leather upper is all style, while the leather lining is all comfort. And the rubber sole is made for navigating tougher terrain than your average pair of dress shoes. That’s really not all the Lewiston Chukka offers, truly.

Hudson Shoes

A closer look at the sleek profile of the Hudson Shoes Lewiston Chukka.

In addition to the solid price for a pair of year-round chukka boots, you’re getting neat design by way of Britain. Like the Crockett & Jones chukka boots that James Bond wears so well in “Skyfall,” the rubber sole on the Lewiston Chukka adds a bit of durability and traction in the rain and on other slippery fall surfaces. Again, just because it’s August doesn’t mean you shouldn’t look ahead. To wit: The Lewiston Chukka is going to sit just right under grey flannel trousers and a navy topcoat on a blustery day, and you can even wear ’em to the office and then to happy hour after without needing to switch them out.  That’s what I’m talking about, folks. All of that means you should give the Lewiston Chukka a serious shot now –and later in the fall season. Oh, and the custom stitching means you’re getting something no other shoe brand can bring to the table; well-done, Hudson Shoes. So, what do we think of the Hudson Shoes Lewiston Chukka? Are we ready for fall? Rest assured, we’ll be talking more in the months to come about the best men’s boots for fall and beyond — and you can expect the Lewiston Chukka to make that list.

Hey — stay stylish!

-Beau

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: Maggie Rogers, Rugged Henleys and How Your Blazer Should Fit

Join us as we kick off a Style Guide weekend in Brooklyn, following a busy week (as per usual) in, well, Brooklyn. And Manhattan. At any rate, the summer continues to roll along as we draw ever closer to *deep breath* … early fall. Maybe we’re jumping the gun a bit, but I can say for sure that content prep for plenty of rugged fall #menswear is well underway in these parts. In the meantime though, it was a heck of a week for live music in NYC on this front, as I took in not one but two standout shows by the phenomenally talented American singer Maggie Rogers at my favorite venue in the city, Brooklyn Steel.

Maggie’s been racking up global festival appearances this summer, including a trip to Outside Lands last weekend, in addition to building some serious buzz behind her excellent EP, the gorgeous “Now That the Light is Fading.” If you haven’t yet given her a listen,, I’d stop what you’re doing and plug in. I was fortunate enough to see her play earlier this spring at the intimate Music Hall of Williamsburg, so to see her play two sold-out nights to nearly 2,000 people was an absolute treat. To say that I’m excited for her full-length debut would be an understatement! At any rate, we’ve also kept busy when it comes to bringing you all the best men’s gear you need now — and we’ve got plenty more where that came from. What are your weekend plans? As for me, I’ll be taking in a relaxing Brooklyn weekend and prepping some more #menswear content for Instagram and beyond. Enjoy the weekend, cheers and stay tuned for tomorrow’s Style Pick of the Week!

  • We’re gearing up slowly but surely for early fall here at The Style Guide — yes, believe it — but before summer’s out, I’d urge you to check out this #OOTD on how to style a rugged henley for the rest of summer. That is, if you haven’t yet checked it out already. Besides, who can pass up a rugged henley — ehh?
  • Want to know how a blazer should fit? It’s one of those essential items every guy needs in his closet — with that in mind, I covered how your blazer should fit in my latest post for Effortless Gent. It’s the little details that matter, and starting with the proper fit is but one way to get those details right.

  • If you’re not yet acquainted with the revamp of Abercrombie and Fitch — an evolution much-loved by your Style Guide author — I’d say you should get up to speed soon. Specifically, the Abercrombie and Fitch denim line is filled with affordable, easy-to-wear and easy-to-buy styles — I wrote about the collection recently for The Manual, and what’s more, I wore some Abercrombie and Fitch denim to Lollapalooza 2017 recently.  Needless to say, I seriously enjoyed the mix of flexible style and comfort the line provides.
  • Lastly and before we go … we mentioned a rugged short-sleeve henley to wear now. But what if you’ve already filled that quota in your wardrobe and want something a little more fall-ready? The Taylor Stitch Mercerized Merino Henley is a favorite of mine as of late, and I think it could be a favorite of yours this season. Get to it!

That’ll end this week’s edition of The Friday Read. Have a great weekend!

-Beau

by Beau H.

See Now, Buy Now: Rancourt & Co. 4-Season Ranger Moc

The Natural Chromexcel take on the 4-Season Ranger Moc — exceedingly ready for early fall, ehh?

As we draw slightly, slightly closer to September in our See Now, Buy Now series here at The Style Guide, it’s time to turn our attention toward menswear staples that can help you step out of your classic summer sneakers and into gear that’s just a bit more transition-friendly. It’s a tall task, seeing as we’ve all grown accustomed to summer’s laidback, breezy style — yet, we’ll do our best to find some helpful #menswear to get the job done. So, we’re talking gear that’s a bit tougher and more regard, for starters.

Rancourt & Co.

The Carolina Brown 4-Season Ranger Moc, a shoe with vintage roots and durable construction.

And in that regard, I think there’s one casual, rugged shoe that you can reliably reach for from now and into … October. Yep, October. And that shoe would have to be the Rancourt & Co. 4-Season Ranger Moc, an exclusive Rancourt & Co. offering available for a short time only via my pals at Huckberry.  Available in two beautiful shades of leather — including Carolina Brown as seen above — the 4-Season Ranger Moc is a shoe that calls to mind both preppy waterfront style and the crunch of fall leaves underfoot further inland. That versatility comes from the Rancourt & Co. signature camp moc sole set beneath a beautiful Horween leather upper, along with the pleasingly familiar camp moc silhouette. Certainly, classic suede chukkas are also a reliable choice for your feet as we start to (slowly) get ready for fall, but the 4-Season Ranger Moc has plenty going for it. And when Rancourt & Co.  says four seasons … they mean, four seasons. Crucially, the  4-Season Ranger Moc looks like that trusty pair of shoes you slip on at your cabin or over the holidays … yet you can (and should!) buy the Ranger Moc right this instant.

For starters, break them out now with a classic Oxford shirt and slim chino shorts while it’s still warm. Then — at least if I were you — I’d nod toward the coming chillier temperatures accordingly — take a casual washed hoodie and a classic men’s T-shirt and match those two up with a pair of faded, American-made denim for your next bonfire or casual weekend coffee run. And when it starts to get just even chillier, pair the 4-Season Ranger Moc with a lightweight cardigan and a rugged striped henley for early fall style. Oh, and when it comes time to pack up a stylish weekender bag for a camping trip? Easy. Just make sure you’ve got the 4-Season Ranger Moc in tow — or on your feet, better yet. Getting ready for fall? Same here. Heck, it might be as easy as snagging the 4-Season Ranger Moc right now.

What do you think of the rugged, instantly classic 4-Season Ranger Moc? Worthy of your purchase? Let me know on Twitter! 

Thanks for reading!

-Beau

by Beau H.

The List: Buy This #Menswear to Close Out The Summer

How’s your month been? Tough to believe we’re barreling through August, ehh? Fear not — we’ve got #menswear shopping to slow down the rush of summer and bolster your wardrobe (and lifestyle) in the process. Yes indeed, we’re talking about the best gear to buy right now. This week’s entry in The List series here at the old Style Guide takes us into new territory. Namely, we’re talking one of the best coffee makers to buy now — as sold by Bespoke Post, of course — plus a stylish navy blazer and perhaps your new favorite sneakers. But wait, there’s more! Really, that’s just the tip of the iceberg. How we doin’? Keep up with my #menswear adventures on Instagram or Facebook — I look forward to hearing all about your purchases of some of the best men’s gear around … wink, wink.

Timex

Astorflex Softflex Sneakers in Peanut — $170

Astorflex

Sneakers that blend craftsmanship, sustainability and style in equal measure.

Ever find a pair of sneakers that exemplify somewhat rugged craftsmanship and yet also look pleasingly casual and laidback? That’s the Astorflex Softlex for ya.

Corridor NYC Stretch Blazer — $295.98

Corridor NYC

A uniquely well-crafted, durable and mobile blazer.

Some classic men’s blazers out there make you take a second look — such is the case with the handsome, refined and yet mobile Corridor NYC Stretch Blazer. Handcrafted in the Big Apple, it’s a one-of-a-kind men’s blazer to wear to close out summer.
Frank And Oak
Craighill Wide Wall Pocket — $32

Craighill

A neat way to store small goods and everyday essentials.

The Craighill Wide Wall Pocket is at once a neat bit of craftsmanship and also something that’s so simple … it’s as if someone should have thought of it sooner.  Cross another item off in your search for stylish men’s home goods.

Wally Walker Piuma Sneakers in Navy OR Stone — $109.98

Wally Walker sneakers

Yes, more sneakers. But these ones blend unique style with affordability.

A pair of stylish, classic sneakers in multiple colorways being offered for a little bit more than $100? Too good to be true. Not so with these crisp, simple Wally Walker Piuma Sneakers.
Greats

American Giant Premium Crew Tee — $36.50

 

American Giant

othing too fancy about a well-made T-shirt — just quality.

 Are you familiar with American Giant? They get a ton of credit for American-made gear ranging from henleys to nearly indestructible hoodies, but there’s no question that the brand’s simple, classic Premium Crew Tee gets the job done.

Florsheim

Hudson Made Morning Shift Body Wash — $28

Bespoke Post

Add this body wash to your daily routine — it’ll pay off.

Looking and feeling your best during the day often starts with the steps you take to get ready — and I’d wager that you’re going to want to include this crisp, masculine Hudson Made Morning Shift Body Wash in your routine.

Lum-Tec Combat B31 Bronze Automatic Watch — $899.99

An extraordinarily durable, tough watch.

Folks, believe me when I say this — Lum-Tec does NOT mess around when it comes to durable, rugged watches — and the Lum-Tec Combat B31 Bronze Automatic Watch is no exception. Yowza.

Bruer Cold Bruer Slow Drip Cold Brew Coffee Maker — $69.98

Bruer coffee

An innovative, dependable coffee maker.

Ahh, yes. Here’s the upgraded coffee maker we talked about. Specifically, this Bruer coffe maker specializes in cold brew — all the better to have around as these last hot summer days roll on by.

Mott and Bow Graham Denim Shirt in Medium Blue — $61.98

Mott and Bow

A crisp, quality denim shirt from Mott and Bow — tough to top.

We talked just a few weeks ago on this site about Mott and Bow denim shirts — and that’s why this handsome, refined-yet-casual and stylish denim shirt makes this version of The List.
AVI-8
This Is Ground Mini Tech Dopp Kit 2 in Cognac — $169

Pack this durable “dopp kit: with everything you need on the daily.

Hauling your everyday carry can be a tall order — but the handsome, pleasingly rugged and easy-to-use This Is Ground Mini Tech Dopp Kit makes your mission a whole heck of a lot easier.

Morning Culture La Playa Blanket — $34.98

Morning Culture La Playa Blanket

Don’t underestimate a blanket that feels cozy AND looks great.

Is there such a thing as a stylish blanket? Of course there is — the Morning Culture La Playa Blanket. For your next camping trip or bonfire, bring along the La Playa Blanket.

Abercrombie and Fitch Langdon Slim Jeans — $39

Clean, sharp and very affordable — that’s new denim from Abercrombie and Fitch.

Last but certainly not least — and because you need slim jeans to wear with your Mott and Bow denim shirt — we’re focusing on the latest, new-and-improved denim line from Style Guide favorites Abercrombie and Fitch. Affordable and easy to wear to your next rock concert.

OK, how’d we do today? I simply can’t get enough of, among other stylish men’s gear picks, the extremely rugged and durable Lum-Tec Combat B31 Bronze Automatic Watch. Let me know how we did in the comments below — and let me  know if you’ll be picking up a piece … or two … or three.

Happy shopping and thanks for reading!

-Beau