Tag / style guide

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.

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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.

Style Guide Recommends: Step into Classic Astorflex Footwear

Astorflex Greenflex Chukka Boots

Classic, stylish and easy-to-wear chukka boots via Astorflex — more than deserving of an entry in this ongoing series, right?

OK  — step on up and let’s get started with another edition of Style Guide Recommends, our monthly look into what you should be wearing, shopping, reading … the whole deal and then some. Sounds good, right? Our last feature told you all about why you should be shopping Bespoke Post — monthly purveyors of “Boxes of Awesome” and plenty of other excellent #menswear. Also an advertiser on this site, I would confidently recommend Bespoke Post either way. And today’s latest entry tells you all about Astorflex — Italian-made crafters of the classic suede boots to  buy now, and plenty more beyond that.  If you peruse the pages of this site from time to time, the brand should (hopefully) jump out at you. The brand makes all of its stylish men’s footwear with careful attention to detail in northern Italy, then sells ’em at excellent prices — as simple as that. I personally love my Astorflex suede chukka boots, and I break them out as often as I can (follow me on Instagram to see exactly how I style them).  With that being said… why are they the right brand for you, and why are they the focus of this week’s #menswear entry?  Allow me.

Astorflex

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

It can be all too easy to get sucked into the cycle of buying clothing that looks good just because it … well, looks good. The fine team at Astorflex goes beyond that, though. The brand makes it stylish footwear sustainably — something that’s tough to come by in the industry, it seems (looking at you, fast fashion retailers). That means that everything from the well-crafted Astorflex Softflex sneakers to durable Astorflex Chelsea boots are made with responsible construction and premium European leather that’s aged in an all-natural water, oak bark and powdered mimosa mix for 30 days. That creates a supple, soft suede that matches up perfectly with crepe rubber soles — the result is a classic pair of desert boots (or sneakers, or rugged Chelsea boots) that look great and feel incredible. And when I say incredible, I mean that Astorflex suede chukkas in particular are comfortable enough to be worn with just stylish no-show socks (finished off with slim light wash denim and a classic Oxford, I should add).  Too good to be true? Not in the slightest. And in addition to comfort and style, Astorflex also offers plenty of versatility throughout its line.

Here’s your next pair of suede chukkas — according to this author.

Take the Astorflex Greenflex— you’re getting a casual and easygoing suede chukka, a perfect multi-season boot. It’s ready to team with everything from a rugged short-sleeve henley and faded dark denim in the spring and summer to a slim topcoat and perhaps wool trousers in the fall or early winter months (certainly, before the first polar vortex hits). And if you’re more of a sneakerhead, look no further than the finely crafted, sharp and visually interesting Astorflex Softflex sneaker. This one sneaker that takes the principles of time-honored footwear and applies it to a silhouette that could work with light wash denim and a classic pocket tee or your new favorite Oxford and slim chino shorts.

Astorflex Bootflex

A well-made, tough pair of Astorflex boots — ready for just about anything.

And lest we forget, the brand also introduced the rugged, tough and wearable Astorflex Bootflex, a lace-up boot that applies that same quality craftsmanship and versatile style. Wear the Astorflex Bootflex with everything from tobacco-colored cotton chinos in the early fall to grey denim in the spring — they’ll work in equal measure for a weekend coffee date or your next music festival.  Last but certainly not least, it’s imperative that you keep the Astorflex Bitflex Chelsea Boot in mind as you consider potential wardrobe upgrades.  Another comfortable and surprisingly lightweight boot, these sleek, stylish Chelsea boots would do well with dark black denim as you figure out how to dress for a rock concert, and they’ll add a bit of edge to a crisp white Oxford and grey cotton chinos in a spring work week ensemble. How’s that for one brand that can do it all? Definitely not bad.

Timex

So, to recap. It can be tough to find a brand that does it all — from blending sustainability and style to crafting well-made, versatile silhouettes, Astorflex hits the nail on the head. The brand’s craftsmanship is apparent, and it starts with that premium European leather and attention to detail. And the resulting styles? Excellent and nearly impossible not to wear well.  Try the Astorflex Bootflex out with everything from grey selvedge denim and a blue Oxford to dark denim and a tough henley. Or, pair the more laidback Astorflex Softflex sneaker with your favorite shorts come summer time. The rest of the year, I’d step into the Astorflex Greenflex or a dependable pair of Astorflex Chelsea boots. Again, keep in mind that the brand is offering up all of this at great prices — starting at $145 and topping out at $190. Hopefully, you see now why they made our Style Guide Recommends series — agreed? Good deal.

Let me know what you think of the brand in the comments section below, or follow me on Twitter for daily style dispatches.

Thanks for reading!

Timex

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: Lollapalooza 2017, Kinfolk and Gear Patrol Field Guides

What a whirlwind week we’ve had here at The Style Guide. And by we, well, I just mean me — that’s a new one, right?? At any rate, time’s flown by since the last Friday Read — more specifically, two full days at Lollapalooza 2017 were among my adventures in Chicago last week!  From dining at the tasty Public House downtown to strolling through the massive and jam-packed Millenium Park to enjoying stellar sets by The Killers, Sylvan Esso and alt-J — to name a few — it was a truly banner weekend. I’m thankful to have had some outstanding music festival adventures this summer, from Panorama NYC to Governors Ball, and my Lollapalooza trip packed in as much #menswear, gourmet bites and craft beer that I could possibly handle. If you haven’t made the trip to Lollapalooza, I’d absolutely recommend it — the chance to take in a great festival in a great city like Chicago is second to none.

But when it comes to the home front, it’s been a busy week regardless — if you haven’t been following along, you best catch up — ehh? On Wednesday, we talked about the essentials to bring to a summer barbecue — preferably, the one you’re going to tomorrow afternoon — there’s still time! We also offered up one of my favorite #OOTD series pieces on this site to date, as this week’s post tackled how to wear a rugged henley this summer. Again, what’s not to love about a slim short-sleeve henley and rugged essentials like a stylish leather watch? Nothing, that’s what. And before we take off for the weekend, we have a plethora of men’s style news for you below — with a dash of music thrown in for good measure. See you out there this weekend, yeah? Check out my Instagram (and Instagram Stories!) for more.

  • Want to snag one last (final last) eye-catching T-shirt to rock in these last few weeks of summer? You might want to check out what Kinfolk is doing with a new line of graphic tees. Featuring a variety of designs — including the crisp Kinfolk 2017 Tee in White, these shirts mix in playful designs and colors with bold questions (“Ten years from now, will your kids remember what all the fuss was about?”). It’s a neat way to shake up your T-shirt rotation — although we all know there’s nothing wrong with a  classic men’s T-shirt, these are still a worthy option.

  • While we’re talking shopping, we just launched yet another new Style Guide series here on the blog. The good news is, entries one and two are up and running in our See Now, Buy Now series. It covers, in short, a quick recap of one standout #menswear item to buy now — from Beckett Simonon’s stylish wingtip boots to the perfect Oxford for fall, I’m excited to offer up plenty of options for ya to shop when it comes to the best men’s gear. After all, “see now, buy now” is a big pillar of the fashion world — why not bring it here?

  • Now, we just talked in last week’s Friday Read about the launch of the exciting (and no doubt tasty) Gear Patrol Beer Week. The publication continues to build on that beer-themed focus with the launch of the first-ever Gear Patrol Field Guide this week — and man, am I excited. It’s a deep dive into all the craft beer that you can possibly read — and dream — about. Oh, and it’s condensed into one handy guide for under $10. I’ll tell you this: You can expect more recommendations to pick up the Gear Patrol Field Guide in the coming days and weeks, that much is true.
  • Since we’re on the gear front, why not hop on over to GearMoose to read my latest long-format feature for the esteemed digital publication? Yes indeed, that’d have to be my roundup of the best pilot watches for men. There’s something in that list for everyone, from picks that lean dressy and sharp to watches that are beastly, rugged and flight-ready. Happy reading!

That’ll do it for this week’s Friday Read. If you need me tonight, I’ll be at the Music Hall of Williamsburg enjoying a great rock show by BK indie rockers Slothrust. See you out there?

-Beau

 

 

 

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: Lollapalooza 2017, Music Festival Style and The Best New Oxford Shirt

Plugged in and ready to go for another round of The Friday Read? Let’s jump right into it. It’s already been a busy season of live shows and festival-hopping for yours truly — including a terrific weekend at Governors Ball 2017 and an incredible two-day stint at Panorama 2017, but this weekend presents a different kind of challenge when it comes to music festival style. More specifically, today finds me in the amazing city of Chicago for yet another weekend of stellar live music — that is, Lollapalooza 2017! You can expect a full men’s travel style recap coming on Monday, and feel free to check out my adventures on Instagram and Twitter in the meantime.

I’ve certainly brought along a lot of #menswear classics for the occasion, from a bevy of stylish T-shirts to my favorite summer shorts, classic summer sneakers and of course, trusty gear to wear to a rock concert. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg. I’m absolutely thrilled to be here to see more excellent acts than I count — a list that’s topped, of course, by The Killers. I had the privilege of trekking to see The Killers in New Jersey earlier this summer, and the powerful, energetic show put on by this terrific band was more than enough to convince me to see them again. Who else is on my list? Namely, everyone from Brooklyn indie punk rockers Slothrust to the chill vibes of The xx and Alt-j. More importantly, it’s my first-ever trip to Lollapalooza — it’s a festival that’s been on my list for ages, so it’ll be an absolute thrill to check it out later today. For now, I’ve got some tunes to turn up — enjoy the weekend and stay tuned for more on Instagram and right here at The Style Guide on Monday!

AVI-8

  • In a very, very exciting development, the great team at Gear Patrol recently held its first-ever Gear Patrol Beer Week, an in-depth and wide-ranging dig into America’s burgeoning, tasty craft beer industry. Believe me, I’m a big fan of this content. I’m fortunate enough to live in Brooklyn, surrounded by standout breweries like Other Half and great beer bars like Torst — so this one hits home for me! I’m looking forward to going back and poring over some of these features — cold one in hand, more likely than not. Cheers!

  • From stylish men’s home goods right down to the gear in your everyday carry, the little things matter — this we know to be true. And that’s even the case when it comes to the best audio gear. With that in mind, I rounded up some standout audio gear to make your next BBQ the best yet over at The Menlo House. Seriously, get your groove on and flip some burgers.
  • This launch hit a few weeks ago, and I’d hope you were privy to it. But if not, know that Mott and Bow launched new Oxford shirts that look great, fit well and feature high-quality fabric that can stand up to all kinds of  wear and tear this summer. Certainly, it might just be the best men’s Oxford shirt you’ll buy this summer. As it were, was fortunate to cover the launch for The Manual, and you’re going to be seeing a lot of these shirts on my Instagram and on this blog — to say the least.

  • So, we talked beer … now let’s talk about another finely crafted beverage, coffee. And crucially, let’s talk about Bizzy Coffee Shots — perfect for folks on the go, Bizzy Coffee Shots quite literally take everyone’s favorite drink and distill it into a tasty, mobile shot. I covered this neat product for GearMoose and had a blast doing it. Bottoms up!

OK, I’m clocking out for the week — I hope y’all have a great Friday! Keep up with me on Instagram and Twitter in the meantime.

Thanks for reading!

-Beau

by Beau H.

See Now, Buy Now: Beckett Simonon’s Nolan Brogue Boots Are Perfect For Fall

Beckett Simonon

Ridiculously well-made, stylish wingtip boots available now for pre-order. See now, buy now — at its finest.

Style Guide readers — do you ever come across a #menswear find that’s just … nearly too good to be true? That is, something like the Beckett Simonon Nolan Brogue Boots. These are a pair of stylish men’s boots so worthy of a men’s style wish list that you might be tempted to snag, well .. right this second? I’ve come across that sentiment more than a few times in running this here blog. And while I hope you’ve been enjoying The List — our ongoing, roughly bi-weekly roundup of the best men’s gear to buy now — we’re introducing something slightly different. Think of it as a quick-hit version of our Style Pick of the Week series. That is, one product from one brand that you  can (and should!) buy feasibly right after you see it — like the Nolan Brogue Boots, my friends. Get it? It’s a popular notion in fashion that you should be able to buy the gear coming off the runways — but we won’t be talking high fashion here. And while I hope I’m not hurting your pocketbook too much, know that some of these picks — like the Nolan Brogue Boots — will lean a bit more investment-worthy.


No, today, we’re talking about the Beckett Simonon Nolan Brogue Boots — an exceptionally well-crafted, extremely handsome pair of wingtip boots perfect for fall. They feature rich full-grain leather, a tough rubber sole and excellent styling potential. Slim dark denim and a rugged shawl cardigan? Check. A classic denim jacket and slim chinos? Bingo. Simply pre-order the Nolan Brogue Boots — also available in Black Calfskin Leather and  a striking Tan Calfksin Leather — and wait (sadly) until November 2017.  I know you can do it! By that time, these stylish wingtip boots will be more than ready to team up with a stylish early winter #OOTD; heck, just about any outfit you can dream up will be made better by the Nolan Brogue Boots, from a moleskin shirt and classic indigo denim to a tailored winter suit.

So, you’ve seen the Nolan Brogue Boots … will you buying them?

And just as importantly: What do you think of this new Style Guide entry? Should we keep it going? Let me know in the comments!

Greats

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Jack Mason Aviator Watch

 

Jack Mason

A no-nonsense timepiece designed with aviation elements and versatile casual style.

Who doesn’t love adding to an ever-growing watch collection? For your Style Guide author, a watch is an essential accessory available in seemingly endless options — but when you find the right watch, you know it unequivocally. If you follow me on Instagram, you know that I certainly can’t pass up a stylish watch. And if you need a new one of your own … well, that’s the journey we’re embarking on today. In fact, your search for a stylish new watch might start and end with the Jack Mason Aviator Watch — it’s potentially the perfect casual watch, a blend of handsome and crisp style at an affordable price point. It’ll work right now — the depths of summer — and the rest of the year. Rest assured, the watch we’re discussing today belongs on any list of the best men’s gear to buy now — and it’s certainly not too good to be true.  Jack Mason draws on classic, masculine influences to design its crisply appointed timepieces — good news if that’s what you’re into stylistically. Blending elements and detailing drawn from pilot and field watches, the results are definitely very, very covetable — take the Jack Mason Nautical Three-Hand Watch, a personal favorite of this author. And that same rugged-yet-wearable ethos shines through with the affordably priced, accessible Jack Mason Aviator Watch. It’s striking in nearly every way, from the surprisingly wearable black dial-brown leather strap combo to the clean design and the durable (yet not overwhelming) 42mm case diameter. In short, it’s the watch to buy now — and wear now.

Jack Mason

A durable-yet-wearable 42mm case diameter and handsome brown leather strap finish off the Jack Mason Aviator Watch quite nicely.

Among many other positives, the Aviator Watch is available to you for the low price of $150 when you sign up for Bespoke Post— gotta love those deals, ehh? And the value in terms of style points? It’ll far surpass the price tag. Like any versatile, stylish watch, it can team up with casual style combos — think a grey pocket tee, slim blue denim and leather high-top sneakers — or dressier ensembles (say, a cotton suit at your next casual summer wedding). It’ll seriously look great all year, a testament to its simple-yet-effective design rooted in field-ready functionality. If that sounds like it’s in your wheelhouse, then step right on up and pick up the Jack Mason Aviator Watch. Wary of buying from a relatively upstart brand? Know that the folks at Jack Mason have put in the work to back up their products (and it helps that they design watches in the hard-to-handle Texas heat). In testing out Jack Mason watches, I can vouch for their quality and durability — to go along with versatile and easily wearable style, that is. If the Aviator Watch isn’t quite your speed, Jack Mason also makes a host of other crisp, eye-catching watches, all geared toward go-anywhere looks. From racing-inspired chronographs to simple field watches, there’s a watch for every taste. And yet… there’s something about the no-frills style potential of the Aviator Watch. Do you agree? And will you be buying any timepieces from Jack Mason this summer? Let me know in the comments. For now — let’s take on the weekend in style!

Thanks for reading,

-Beau

by Beau H.

Online Shopping Picks: Here Are The Best T-Shirts to Buy Right Now

For years, you’ve likely had a closet or dresser drawer jammed with tees. Old high school and college tees, loud logo tees, maybe a much-loved band tee here or there … but what about a stylish T-shirt to wear when, well, you just want to wear a great-looking, no-fuss slim T-shirt for summer? That’s what we’re covering in today’s #menswear rundown. We’ve talked about how to wear a T-shirt with a  suit (it can be done!), but it’s even more refreshing to see that some of your favorite menswear designers are taking the classic staple and upgrading it with quality fit and fabrication.

Timex

Indeed, the humble T-shirt can turn into a style weapon of sorts …. if you buy the right one, that is. And if you, like me, love shopping for the best new  gear for men, I’d urge you to leave some space on your list for what might be your new favorite T-shirt (or heck, several new favorite T-shirts). You’ll recognize brands familiar — like Outerknown — and perhaps more unfamiliar, and that’s what we want. Buy one of the best men’s T-shirts on this list, and you’ll be set for layering with a light wash denim jacket, teaming with an unstructured navy blazer and rocking it on its own to your next music festival. Let me know what you think of the below picks in the comments or on Twitter. Oh, and as per usual … you can see how I’m styling my T-shirts on Instagram. Let’s get right to it!
Frank And Oak

#1. Outerknown Pagoda Stripe Tee in Whitewater OR Ink Stripe — $53.98

Two unique, textured tees fit for wearing with plenty of ensembles this summer.

OK, so you’ve surely seen Outerknown and the brand’s Pagoda Stripe Tee in our Style Pick of the Week series — right? If you’re on the hunt for a tee that can work reliably well on its own, you’re going to want something with a bit more texture and heft to the fabric — and that’s what the Pagoda Stripe Tee brings to the table. Your Style Guide author likes it in the crisp, pleasingly earthen Whitewater shade, but the Ink Stripe Tee would look great with a slim denim jacket or a grey cotton blazer. Two options, two winners — both among the best men’s T-shirts for summer, no questions asked.

#2. Flint and Tinder Slub Tee in Dusty Field Grey OR  Coral — $38

Flint and Tinder

Two broken-in options from F&T — both featuring a modern fit and excellent colors.

The key with picking out a stylish slim T-shirt to wear entirely on its own, sans jacket or other layers? Looking for a T-shirt that’s crafted with proper texture and fit in mind. It’s those visual details that make the difference — and as always, Flint and Tinder gets the little things right. The Flint and Tinder slub tees for sale this season get the little things  just so, with a range of dusty color options ideal for pairing with slim light wash denim and your favorite suede chukka boots. As for me? I love the Flint and Tinder Coral Slub Tee, and would definitely wear it with a khaki cotton blazer.
Greats

#3. Bread & Boxers Relaxed V-neck in White — $28

Bread & Boxers

A simple, classic V-neck tee made for easygoing style.

We’ve talked about how the best men’s T-shirts incorporate subtle visual details, right? Well, let’s make some room for that timeless men’s style essential, the classic white T-shirt. There should be space for one in every closet — even if you only wear it in the most pared-down of style situations. We’re talking slim grey denim, stylish leather high-top sneakers and a tee like the Bread & Boxers Relaxed V-neck — for example. And when you want to layer it — say, under a classic chambray shirt or a cotton bomber jacket — it’ll work just as stylishly. And the Relaxed V-neck is priced right, too.

Florsheim

#4.  Old Navy Textured Stripe Pocket Tee — $16.94

Old Navy

You get what you pay for with Old Navy — simple, quality style.

There are times when you just want an affordably priced tee with a simple (yet visually interesting) design, right? That’s where Old Navy comes in. You could feasibly stock your closet with the brand’s no-frills basics, including this neat red striped tee that’s available for under $20. With the cash you’re saving here, you should have some left over for a burger and a beer — wear it with a leather moto jacket for a dose of added cool.

#5. Iron and Resin Indigo Tide Tee — $43.98

Iron and Resin

A well-made, richly colored tee that’ll earn you serious style points.

As we’ve talked about previously, the best men’s T-shirts pack a serious punch in terms of quality style, excellent visual details and the best fabric money can buy. For a shockingly low price, that’s what Iron and Resin delivers with its handsome, rugged Indigo Tide Tee. Featuring a custom look that comes from the unique indigo dye process, the Indigo Tide Tee is made from soft cotton jersey — that makes it the exact type of tee you’re going to want to wear with your favorite chinos and stylish summer sneakers. Feel free to layer it under a rugged cardigan when the temperature drops this fall, too.

#6. Bespoke Post Crew Box — $45

Bespoke Post Crew Box

You get two excellent layering pieces for the price of one — including a stylish pocket tee.

We’re going beyond our usual five picks today, if only because there’s simply too much out there when it comes to stylish men’s T-shirts. Just as with other Bespoke Post gear — if you’re not familiar, get acquainted — the Bespoke Post Crew Box packs a tremendous value for a low price. In fact, you get plenty more than just a classic pocket tee in the Crew Box — you also get an easy-to-layer indigo crewneck sweater, perfect for breezy summer nights or packing up some of the best gear to head to the beach. Wear the tee on its own, then add the sweater as it gets a bit colder — you can’t go wrong.

#7. Huckberry Modern Visual Language Pocket Tee — $32

An entirely unique pocket tee with a cool design — easier to wear than you’d think.

Want a T-shirt that’s anything but ordinary? Enter the Huckberry Modern Visual Language Pocket Tee. It’s a visually intriguing, conversation-worthy tee designed for Huckberry by artist Kyle Steed. Featuring an unexpected white-and-pink color combo, it’s a breezy summer tee to wear on your next bar crawl — preferably alongside slim chino shorts as you sip on one of the best summer beers, ehh?

#8. La Paz Guerreiro Pocket T-shirt — $54

La Paz menswear

A timeless option available through Huckberry for an affordable price.

Last but certainly not least, take a cue from the easy, breezy style of guys the world over by putting on a classic striped T-shirt this summer (and well beyond). As it were, the La Paz Guerreiro Pocket T-shirt provides the perfect chance to step out in continental style — think slim chinos, white sneakers and perhaps an unstructured grey linen blazer. Given the fit and quality fabrication of this La Paz tee, it’s even the type of T-shirt you can wear with a suit (preferably the handsome Taylor Stitch Telegraph Suit, ehh?). So, that’s a lot of value packed into just one tee — what are you waiting for?

OK, folks. That’s all for today in terms of stylish men’s T-shirts to buy now. What did you think? As we’ve discussed before, designers and brands continue to do a very reliable job in terms of upgrading the fabrics and fits of your favorite T-shirts. Whether you’d consider a classic American-made shirt — like one of the essential Flint and Tinder slub tees as seen at the top — or if you want to go with something a little bolder (like the Modern Visual Language Pocket Tee), there are options aplenty.


And there are certainly tees that can work in situations both casual and dressy — the Indigo Tide Tee from Iron and Resin can easily slip under a khaki cotton blazer or a light wash denim jacket in equal measure. If quality and value is what you seek, then I hope the Bespoke Post Crew Box gives you what you’re looking for. In the way of classic American style, it’s also true that an essential white tee belongs in your wardrobe  — I think the Bread & Boxers Relaxed V-neck more than gets the job done.  Lastly, continental style can be had in spades with a pick like the La Paz Guerreiro Pocket T-shirt  — as with the rest of our picks for the best men’s T-shirts, getting the look you desire is as simple as buying a tee that you love. To add to this list, hit up The Style Guide Facebook page or leave a comment below.

Thanks for reading!

-Beau

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: Menswear Trade Shows, Stylish Men’s Sunglasses and Allen Edmonds

It’s with a much-needed weekend ahead of me that I’m writing today’s Style Guide missive in our ongoing Friday Read series — perhaps you feel the same way? We’re closing out an incredibly busy week on the #menswear front in NYC, including two whirlwind days for yours truly at style trade shows like Liberty Fashion & Lifestyle Fairs and Capsule Show. This week’s schedule also included a stop to view the contemporary and slightly edgier mix of brands found at MAN-WOMAN show (think tried-and-true favorites like Apolis and upstart brands like Alps & Meters — as seen in this Midwest fall style post).

At any rate, it was great to catch up with brands familiar and unfamiliar, many of whom you see regularly on this blog — from the standout sneaker makers at SeaVees to perennial Style Guide favorite Frank and Oak. I got around in style with my Timex x Todd Snyder Military Watch and made sure to rock some stylish men’s sunglasses, too. And as it were, that busy week of trade show action capped off an even busier weekend, if you can believe it. Incredibly and unexpectedly, I had the chance to see my favorite band, indie rockers The National, play not one, but two breathtaking shows in the small upstate town of Hudson last weekend. They debuted tracks off their upcoming new album, “Sleep Well Beast,” and I can assuredly say after hearing it twice that it’s on track to be one of the year’s best — no joke. I won’t give away too much, but you can read an excellent write-up at Vinyl Me, Please of the two emotional, powerful shows at converted factory Basilica Hudson. In short, I was so very glad I went — no regrets at all! With that being said, I’m very much looking forward to some much-needed downtime this weekend — and on that note, I’m going to leave you with today’s #menswear news. Happy reading, enjoy the weekend and keep up with my Brooklyn explorations over on Instagram.

  • We’ll start with the menswear world here — and specifically, the world of stylish men’s dress shoes. Among American purveyors of your favorite dress shoes, Allen Edmonds has got to rank high on the list — right? This week, CEO Paul Grangaard announced he’ll be assuming an advisory role as longtime industry vet Malcolm Robinson joins the brand’s parent company as president of its men’s and international divisions. I, for one, am excited to see where the brand continues to go — after checking out the Allen Edmonds Fall 2017 line last month, I can tell you that the brand has some great product — including plenty of stylish men’s boots — on the way this next season.
  • Upgrading your everyday carry is something we talk about frequently here on The Style Guide — and it’s with that in mind that I’m recommending you pick up the Grovemade Walnut and Leather iPhone Case via my latest GearMoose feature. Ehh?
  • Last but surely not least, it’s imperative given my *ahem* “job” as editor of The Style Guide that I direct you to the latest blog series here, called The List, chronicling the best new men’s gear to buy this week, this month … heck, this year? Happy shopping!

OK, loyal readers — we’re closing up shop early today! Have a great weekend, join us for tomorrow’s Style Pick of the Week from site  favorites Mott and Bow, and we’ll catch you on Monday.

Thanks for reading!

-Beau

by Beau H.

#OOTD: Styling Your New Favorite Oxford Shirt for Summer

The best part about owning plenty of men’s style essentials is the freedom and flexibility they give you as you put together your next #OOTD — even in the warmer months. That’s certainly the case in today’s edition of our ongoing Style Guide series — we’re telling you all about how to wear a classic Oxford this summer. That’s right — a stylish Oxford shirt can be part of your #menswear rotation even when the mercury climbs. Although we associate the summer months with short-sleeve renditions of our favorite fall and winter staples — take the short-sleeve chambray shirt, for instance — you can still reliably wear a well-made Oxford shirt in the heat of summer … as long as you pair it with like-minded summer style essentials. Certainly, if you start with one of the best men’s Oxford shirts, you’re stepping out on the right foot.

And in the case of today’s #OOTD, that means we’re ditching slim light wash denim for stylish chino shorts — among other crucial moves to fight the heat. I won’t take up any more of your time, though — you can find the rest of today’s men’s style suggestion below. To get in touch with questions on styling your classic Oxford shirt, find me on Twitter, or drop a note in the comments below. Stay cool out there!

Huckberry

Take your favorite Oxford and mash it up with summer style essentials.

The Oxford: Flint and Tinder Texas-Made Oxford, $89 — Ahh yes, the shirt that makes this whole outfit work. From everyone’s favorite menswear purveyors at Flint and Tinder comes a Portuguese cotton shirt made at a family-owned factory. Roll up the sleeves and order a beer, ehh?

The Shorts: Finisterre Coverack Shorts, $66.98 — As seen in this site’s post on the best men’s shorts to buy this summer, these classic khaki shorts blend a modern fit with summer-friendly fabric.

The Sneakers: Novesta Star Master Sneakers, $57.98 Novesta— So, we’re talking stylish summer sneakers for under $60 when on sale? Seems too good to be true, but is a cult classic that makes an easily wearable set of kicks.

The Socks: Arvin Goods No-show Socks, $30 (Exclusive Three-pack) — Leave it to Arvin Goods to make a nice, Huckberry-excusive set of stylish no-show socks to keep your feet cool and comfortable in this #OOTD.

The Belt: Radius Woven Belt in Navy, $35 (When Signing Up for Bespoke Post) — Don’t step out of the house without the details accounted for — the Radius Woven Belt is a stylish, casual and affordable accessory (that is, when you sign up for Bespoke Post).

Greats

The Watch: Timex Waterbury in Natural Tan Leather, $84.98 — There’s nothing too fancy about this well-made, stylish Timex watch — and in the case of this casual ensemble, that works out just fine.

The Hat: Huckberry Explorer’s Cap, $39.98— Between the classic Oxford shirt and the stylish chino shorts, this outfit is certainly fit for any laidback summer activity you might find yourself in. Throw on a vintage-inspired ballcap for good measure.
Frank And Oak

The Grooming Essential: Harry’s Essential Travel Shave Kit, $49.98 — Certainly useful for more than just your next road trip, this Harry’s shaving kit has all the goods to keep you looking fresh and sharp for summer weekends.

If at first an Oxford shirt seems like it might be too stuffy to wear in the summer, think again. In the right fabric and fit — such as the fabric and fit of the Flint and Tinder Oxford shown here — this shirt can be every bit as versatile as your favorite polo shirt. As long as you team it with like-minded pieces (such as casual Finisterre shorts and classic summer sneakers), this combo is going to be cool and breezy. Seasonally appropriate accessories — like the classic Huckberry Explorer’s Cap, stylish Arvin Goods no-show socks and a handsome, versatile Timex Waterbury watch — also help set the tone as you dress for summer adventures. Last but certainly not least — keep your summer grooming in line with a well-priced and very useful Harry’s shaving kit. I guarantee that if you follow those steps, you’re going to be looking mighty sharp this summer — from the boardwalk to the patio bar, and anywhere else you go.

As always — thanks for reading, and stay stylish!

-Beau

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Blue Claw Co. Waxed Weekender

Blue Claw Co.

An all-around standout bag, from the waxed canvas exterior to the design exclusive to Bespoke Post.

Before you hit the road on your next trip, grab the Blue Claw Co. Waxed Weekender — you’re gonna need it, and I’ll tell you exactly why today on The Style Guide. For starters, you can make the argument that every guy needs a stylish weekender bag in his rotation. It’s an accessory that’s more than just a place to stash your stuff as you dress for summer travel. Think of it like an extension of your outfit — as I always say, the small details count, and your weekender bag is definitely among those details. The best men’s weekender bags get a few things right. Oftentimes, those things revolve around sturdy construction, expert detailing, handsome looks (all the better to pair with everything from a tee and jeans to a polo and blazer) and the ability to haul all of your favorite gear.Today, we’re all in luck — the Blue Claw Co. Waxed Weekender checks all of those boxes. It’s a worthy buy before your next trip — and thanks to Bespoke Post, it’s affordable as heck, and entirely unique Why should you snag the Waxed Weekender over other options, though? Keep on reading, fella.

Nautica

Notably, the Blue Claw Co. Waxed Weekender is exclusive to Bespoke Post — you really won’t find it anywhere else. It’s got the sort of rugged specifications and strong construction you’d expect from an American-made weekender bag. As it were, Blue Claw Co. designs all of its gear in Minneapolils and produces it with attention to detail — if this bag can stand up to Minnesota winters, it can certainly stand up to summer travel. It’s similar in size to the Owen and Fred Voyager Waxed Weekender, so it should be a trusty trip standby — that goes for whether you pack it with American-made denim aplenty or your favorite suede chukka boots and one of the best men’s dopp kits.

Blue Claw Co. Waxed Weekender

Handsome bridle leather accents and durable hardware give this bag a solid look and feel.

And as we’ve said before, the small touches set the Blue Claw Co. Waxed Weekender apart. As you can see above, touches like a solid brass zipper and complementary brass hardware give it all the durability you need when hitting the road weekend after weekend.  It can readily fit in an airplane overhead bin, and with that durable waxed canvas exterior, you can chuck the Waxed Weekender in the back of your car for a summer upstate trip or a weekend at the beach. That brings us to perhaps the most important point. The Waxed Weekender is a bit of an investment at $295 in full. However, get this: When you sign up for Bespoke Post, you can snag the tough, durable and stylish  Blue Claw Co. Waxed Weekender  for $215 — not a bad deal, ehh? And keep in mind that signing up for Bespoke Post also gives you access to the brand’s monthly subscription box for just $45. But that’s another post entirely. At any rate, the  Blue Claw Co. Waxed Weekender is among the best men’s weekender bags to buy now — that much is true. Will you be hitting the road with the  Waxed Weekender  in tow? Let me know in the comments, and catch up with us over at The Style Guide Facebook page!

Thanks so much for reading,

-Beau