Tag / style guide

by Beau H.

Online Shopping Picks: The Best Gifts to Buy For Mother’s Day This Year

OK, guys — remain calm. If Mother’s Day crept up on you this year — or you just didn’t know what to buy for the occasion, The Style Guide is here to help today. And luckily for all of you shoppers out there, we’ve got not only a little bit of time before Mother’s Day (it’s this weekend!), but also plenty of options in this year’s Mother’s Day gift guide. Read this post, and I guarantee you your gift-giving conundrum will be solved. Just as with buying a Christmas or birthday gift, it pays to dig a little deeper, past the ordinary — simple and beautifully made gifts with character are the way to go, no matter the mom you’re buying for. And we’re making it even easier this year, with categories ranging from fashion to jewelry. So with all of that being said, I won’t waste another minute of your time. Unless, that is, you feel like shopping for yourself and perhaps crossing an item off your spring style wish list … in that case, procrastinate away! In the meantime, good luck finding that perfect Mother’s Day gift — tell me how it goes over on Twitter or via The Style Guide Facebook page.

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Jewelry: Julia Szendrei Horizon Diamond Slice Necklace — $99

Julia Szendrei

A simply stylish, understated addition to Mom’s jewelry collection.

You know what’s the great thing about shopping frequently via Huckberry? You get well-acquainted with the fact that they’ve got a neat, unique and well-curated selection of women’s gifts — including the Julia Szendrei Horizon Diamond Slice Necklace.  It provides just the right amount of visual interest, and certainly looks more unique than other necklaces Mom might have in her jewelry rotation. Simple, understated and classic.

Accessories, Part 1: Sofia Ramsey Silver Coco Bracelets — $16

Made with hand-painted coconut wood and bright metal beads, these would be a unique, thoughtful gift.

Less a statement piece of jewelry and more a thoughtful accessory, these Sofia Ramsey bracelets blend a spring and summer-friendly color with carefully constructed quality and the type of chic looks that the mom — or moms — on your gifting list might appreciate. Perhaps even better than the eclectic style of these bracelets? Supporting two local businesses in the process (one of ’em being my favorite Brooklyn shop, Upstate Stock!). Plus, you can combine this gift with a little more personal touch — thoughtful flowers, a nice candle or a great book. Speaking of books …

The Combination Gift: Elizabeth W. Aromatherapy Candle — $23.98 AND a Great Book [“Days Without End” by Sebastian Barry, $26 on IndieBound.com]

The unbeatable combo of a great book and a nice candle.

What better way to welcome spring and summer than with an intriguing beach read? If you’ve got a book lover on your list, they very well might appreciate “Days Without End,” a richly crafted, fascinating tale of immigration, the old American West and in short, a momentous time in American history. It’s got a lot of buzz behind it, and it’s certainly among the best books for Mother’s Day (I think). It should be a gripping read — and that’s where the relaxing Lavender Aromatherapy Candle comes into play. See, two great gifts and an easy one-two punch.

Clothing: Taylor Stitch Catherine Buttondown — $118

Taylor Stitch Women's Apparel

A simple, well-made buttondown — match with your gift receipient if you wish!

Lest you thought Taylor Stitch only made your favorite clothing, think again. They make a nice selection of finely textured, well-made and understated pieces for the woman who values effortless style. Whoever that might be on your list, a premium shirt like the Taylor Stitch Catherine Buttondown could be a nice complement to something like a day of pampering or her favorite flowers — see, it’s the little things that count. And seeing as Taylor Stitch has thought of all the details possible with its Catherine Shirt, that’s great news as you shop for Mother’s Day.

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Footwear: Nisolo Sofia Slip-on — $188

Nisolo

A clean, well-made slip-on perfect for the mom who loves — I mean, LOVES — shoes.

Just as with Taylor Stitch, Nisolo does far more than make stylish gear for guys (like the Emilio Chukka Boot). Indeed, the Sofia Slip-on is yet another unique, refined and understated pair of footwear to consider buying for the mom who considers herself a fashionista. And regardless of her footwear tastes, a chic pair of leather slip-ons should work reliably well through the warmer months — so while you buy the Nisolo Leon Weekender for yourself, buy the Sofia Slip-on for her, will ya?

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Accessories, Part 2: Bellroy Carry Out Clutch — $168.98

 

Bellroy

For the mom who appreciates refined, essential accessories — here’s the gift to give.

Who doesn’t appreciate a great addition to their everyday carry  — right? While Mom’s daily carry might look a bit different than yours — I’d wager she doesn’t carry around a small pocket knife, for example — there are still additions to be made. And one of those additions should likely be the Bellroy Carry Out Clutch, a subtly stylish clutch that should be easy to slip into a tote bag or carry on its own. Hey, maybe check out some other Bellroy leather goods for yourself? You know, as a reward for your shopping prowess.

And with that … we’ve reached the end of this year’s Mother’s Day gift guide. Was it helpful? Useful? Or was it a complete waste of time and you’re still scrambling to find a gift? In that case … I do apologize. But if you found a simple, timeless and classic gift to give — like the Bellroy Carry Out Clutch or the Sofia Slip-on — that’s what we’re going for! Indeed, it all comes down to playing toward Mom’s tastes and interests; in that case, something more unexpected, yet well-made — like the Taylor Stitch Catherine Buttondown — could be a prime gift to give. Don’t forget small touches, like an engaging book or a nice candle. So, what do you say? Let me know what you’re buying for Mother’s Day this year in the comments below.

Good luck, stay stylish and thank you for reading — as always!

-Beau

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Oars + Alps Athlete’s Grooming Kit

Oars + Alps

Grooming essentials from Oars + Alps paired with weekend essentials — the Owen and Fred Brass Bottle Opener and Graft Lantz 1951 Traveller Bag among them.

We’ve  talked quite often in our Style Pick of the Week series about men’s style essentials you need to have on-hand in your closet — be it a  lightweight nylon jacket or versatile spring sneakers. But what about your … medicine cabinet?  Effective men’s grooming products tend to be an area most of us guys overlook — it can be an overwhelming field to dive into, what with a plethora of options and brands big and small out there. Yes indeed, keeping it simple can sometimes pay off. In that vein, the Oars + Alps Athlete’s Grooming Kit is simplicity defined for the guy who wants to upgrade his grooming game quickly and easily. Available via the brand’s Web site and the fine folks at Huckberry, it’s a quick and easy-to-use set of just three basics that you need now. While we’ve talked about the best men’s grooming products for winter, it’s just as important to keep your skin in shape during the spring and summer. And the Oars + Alps Athlete’s Grooming Kit is certainly made for the guy on the go, whether you fancy yourself an athlete or not. The kit features the crisply scented, effective Active Armor Deodorant, a 2-in-1 face moisturizer and eye cream — use a lighter amount under the eyes, a thicker amount on the face — and the unique Power Cleansing Face Stick. With that versatility in mind, there’s a great chance the Athlete’s Grooming Kit could be the most essential grooming move you make this season. Having had the chance to test out the line recently courtesy of the brand, I can certainly vouch for that — in fact, it might be among the best men’s grooming products for spring and summer.

Beckett Simonon

The full line-up from Oars + Alps — possibly your new favorite set of grooming essentials.

At first glance, the Power Cleansing Face Stick seems a bit different — you rub the stick on your face (avoiding your eyes), and then rub the solution into your skin with wet hands. Sound odd? Maybe a little — but once you realize that the Cleansing Face Stick leaves your skin feeling refreshed and smooth, it’s easy to use. And the combination of face moisturizer and eye cream eliminates an extra step in the grooming process while hydrating your skin. Again, refreshing and smooth skin isn’t something you should let go in the spring and summer. And the Active Armor Deodorant proves that the Athlete’s Grooming Kit really is an excellent all-around grooming routine, what with its effective performance and crisp scent. While you might have the rest of your spring style essentials covered, the Athlete’s Grooming Kit can absolutely take care of your grooming needs all spring and summer long. The fact that the you can pick up the Athlete’s Grooming Kit for a low price is just an added bonus. And it’s a crucial reminder that even if you think you have everything covered, it’s best to go the extra mile with grooming essentials. If you’ve got more questions on the Athlete’s Grooming Kit, just drop me a line via Twitter.

Stay stylish!

-Beau

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by Beau H.

The Friday Read: Star Wars Day, Spring Menswear and The Best Suede Boots for Spring

From yet another #menswear-related work event to plenty of oher action on the men’s style front, it was a busy week — to say the least — here at The Style Guide. How was your week? Happy Cinco de Mayo, by the way — put one on my tab, will ya? In other matters: If spring style is what you seek, we’ve got plenty going on that front for you. Prepare to dress for Sunday brunch with our latest style suggestion, layer up for spring showers with the best gear for the rain and of course, stick around for tomorrow’s Style Pick of the Week.  Outside of menswear, it’s been great to take in all that Brooklyn has to offer in terms of exploring the borough recently. These past few weeks, that’s meant checking out some excellent live shows at the newly opened Brooklyn Steel, now the largest venue in BK! This week in particular, I danced my way through a high-energy show from Irish indie rockers Two Door Cinema Club — that’s a bucket-list band that was worth the wait to see! Of course, I stayed busy on the writing front aside from just having fun at live shows — and you’ll get a look at a few of those articles below. Follow along on Instagram, keep up with my escapades via Twitter and join the conversation over at The Style Guide Facebook page. See you out there!

  • In keeping with the idea of spring style essentials, the fine folks at REEF have teamed up once again with menswear designer Masafumi Watanabe on a surf-inspired collection of lightweight, easygoing pieces that draw on the brand’s California roots. Yes indeed, the REEF x MW line has everything from ringer tees to utility shorts to cool sneakers that would work perfectly for your next spring road trip — and nothing in the collection tops $110. That’s affordable, unique style that can’t be beat.

  • As you might or might not have seen, May 4th was what we call #StarWarsDay — as in, “May the Fourth be with you.” Get it? And fittingly enough, you can mark the occasion — if belatedly — in style with eye-catching, retro-inspired runners from Brooks Heritage as part of the Brooks Heritage Galactic Collection. For more sneaker talk, check out my Style Guide Q+A with Brooks Heritage, too.

  • It might seem counterintuitive to keep wearing boots when it warms up, but I certainly have a tough time shelving my favorite leather boots — and to that end, I recently took my Viberg Service Boots throughout a bit of Brooklyn weekend exploration. What’s more, Esquire.com tells you all about the best suede boots to wear for spring — seriously, folks. Hop to it!

One last thing …

  • If a new swim suit is what you seek, check out my roundup of 25 — yep, 25 — of the best board shorts to buy now over at GearMoose. You really can’t go wrong with any of those picks — trust me.

OK, y’all — that’s it for this week. Enjoy the weekend, and don’t forget your stylish Sunday brunch gear.

-Beau

by Beau H.

#OOTD: How to Wear Light Wash Jeans This Spring

So, you’ve picked up your new favorite pair of light wash denim — or at least, you’ve thought about it. Now, how do you wear those jeans? Well, there are a few moves that’ll help you take on spring in style — unlike pairing dark selvedge denim with sturdy leather boots and a thick shawl cardigan for winter, the focus today is on keeping things light, breezy and fun. That means we’re grabbing an essential spring polo and a classic cotton bomber jacket, all the while focused on dialing in the fit of your light wash denim. In the warm, breezy days of spring and summer, light wash denim just fits in with the weather and the atmosphere. Trust me on this: You’re going to want to wear light wash jeans as much as you can this summer — particularly when those jeans are made in a unique wash and feature a slim fit. That means that from spring road trips to summer music festivals, slim light wash jeans should be a go-to move — and it doesn’t get better than the Abercrombie light wash denim seen here. You know Abercrombie and Fitch for the brand’s stylish, durable winter gear, and that same attitude carries over to its spring line. If you have other questions on how to wear your light wash denim, or if you just want to get in touch, hit me up on Twitter or join me over on the ‘Gram for style inspiration on the daily.

Sutro Footwear

Mixing the sporty and the classic for essential spring style.

The Denim: Abercrombie and Fitch Super Skinny Jeans, $39 — If it’s slim, of-the-moment style that you seek, look no further than this vibrant pair of washed denim, made with a hint of stretch for comfort. For options that feature a more forgiving cut, look toward Straight or Slim options via Mott and Bow.

The Jacket: La Paz Ortigao Bomber in Almond, $275 — We first brought this jacket to your attention in our post on how to dress for a spring road trip — and well, it’s back again thanks to its unique color and lightweight construction.
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The Polo: Criquet Shirts Slim-Fit Player’s Shirt in Midnight Cowboy, $79 — For easily wearable style that looks sharp underneath a bomber jacket or on its own, it’s tough to top a classic navy polo like the Criquet Slim-Fit Player’s Shirt  — especially one made with organic cotton jersey fabric.

The Sneakers: House of Future Original Sneaker in White, $76.98 — Who doesn’t love a pair of classic leather sneakers? Especially the House of Future Original Sneaker — these are sharp and feature a crisp, slim profile for an agreeable price.

The Socks: Darn Tough No Show Ultra-Light Cushion Socks, $29.98 — No-show socks can be a surprisingly tricky item for which to shop — you want comfort and quality, and you get that with the Darn Tough No Show Ultra-Light Cushion Socks.

The Belt: La Matera Bariloche Belt, $145 — If you want to step up your #menswear accessories game in a big way, reach for a casual belt — say, the La Matera Bariloche Belt — that blends vintage fabric, a neat pattern and cool color.

The Watch: Jack Mason Aviator Chronograph, $275 — For handsome, smart and casual style that still looks extremely sharp and put-together, the Jack Mason Aviator Chronograph is the watch you need now.

The Sunglasses: Norton Point Charlie 014 Sunglasses, $145 — For seriously cool style, reach for retro-inspired sunglasses that add some sporty appeal to the La Paz Ortigao Bomber.

Florsheim

Feeling comfortable with how to wear light wash denim now? At least a little bit more comfortable? If you haven’t quite come around to the idea of light wash denim yet, the key here involves taking pieces that you’d already wear in warm weather — like the Criquet Slim-Fit Player’s Shirt — and mashing them up with sporty-yet-casual pieces (such as the La Paz Ortigao Bomber in Almond. Add in supremely classic and clean white leather sneakers like the House of Future Original Sneaker , and then accent that casual combo with the beautiful and just plain badass Jack Mason Aviator Chronograph. Oh, and don’t leave your shades at home — there’s no doubt that you won’t forget the Norton Point Charlie 014 Sunglasses, what with a retro-inspired design and cool looks. In short, all of these pieces work on their own — and they particularly work well together for all manner of spring style pursuits, from a ballgame to a weekend coffee date to a spring road trip. Especially that light wash denim. Ya feel me on that? Good.

Let’s go to it!

-Beau

 

by Beau H.

Style Suggestion: How to Dress for Cinco de Mayo

Sidle up to the bar, folks! It’s time for a little Cinco de Mayo celebration — and the requisite #menswear to go with it, of course. Yes, the holiday to commemorate the Mexican Army’s victory in the Battle of Puebla has turned into quite the occasion here in the U.S. (for better or worse). Seeing as it’s as great a time as any to hit up your first spring bar crawl, you might as well look stylish while doing it — right? We’re offering up picks today that harness the best of spring style — essential chino shorts, a versatile short-sleeve shirt and SeaVees slip-on sneakers that can go just about anywhere.  Just as with dressing for spring break or dressing for a road trip, the winning formula lies in upgrading your basic pieces and nailing the fit just right. Oh, and enjoying yourself along the way — that’s what it’s all about. Kick back, enjoy a Corona or a Tecate for me, and scroll through the below #menswear picks. Got any feedback for me? Hit me up over on Twitter. Bottoms up!

The Shirt: United By Blue Wenlock Chambray Shirt — $68

United By Blue

Style that goes toward a good cause and looks excellent for Cinco de Mayo and beyond.

For style that’s at once more put-together than a T-shirt and yet more casual than your standard classic Oxford or dress shirt, reach for a slim chambray shirt — preferably the United By Blue Wenlock Chambray Shirt. Made with sustainability in mind — your purchase helps the brand remove one pound of trash from oceans and waterways — the mini-plus sign print is visually interesting, while the unique lighter blue color is a spring-appropriate style move. Yes indeed, this shirt is made for a few patio brews.

The  Shorts: Katin Patio Shorts — $49.98

Katin

Your go-to shorts for having a few spring brews — especially on Cinco de Mayo.

The prime function of the Katin Patio Shorts is … practically in the product title itself. They’re made for spring and summer patio evenings galore. And they’re a heck of a steal for under $50 — just the shorts you need to wear for spring and summer, what with a versatile khaki color and a clean fit. Add in the drawstring waist and you’ve got a bit of hidden comfort — ideal for moving from bar to bar or manning the grill. Again, it’s tough to top that combination of price and solid looks.
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The Sneakers: SeaVees Huntington Middie — $84.98

SeaVees

A sneaker that blends the ease of a slip-on with the style of a canvas lace-up.

See, told ya we’d be recommending some SeaVees slip-on sneakers for the occasion, did I not? The  SeaVees Huntington Middie is a unique option that’s A) Ideal for spring and B) Pleasingly versatile thanks to its slip-on construction and chukka-like cut. In short, it’s both perfect for beach trips and boardwalk strolls, along with a little Cinco de Mayo party action. The SeaVees Huntington Middie is definitely an upgrade over flip-flops, and you can wear ’em all summer long.

The Socks: Darn Tough No Show Ultra-Light Cushion Socks –$29.98

Darn Tough No-Show Socks

Simple no-show socks that blend comfort with practicality.

Slip-on sneakers still call for no-show socks that provide comfort for your feet and extend the life of your footwear — agreed? And Darn Tough makes some of the best out there; sure, it’s just a hair under $30 for a two-pack, but these are a weather-appropriate way to upgrade your sock game — no white tube socks and sneakers now, ya hear?

The Watch: Szanto Military Field Watch — $150

Szanto Military Field Watch

A watch that can stand up to a little sun and maybe even a spilled drink.

A military field watch for Cinco de Mayo? Absolutely. When the name of the game is hopping from party to party or bar to bar, whether you imbibe or not, it’s still a good idea to step out in casual style that channels rugged vibes. That is to say: Leave the heirloom watch at home this go-round. Luckily for you, the Szanto Military Field Watch is clean and simple, with understated, casual style to match. The price ain’t half-bad, either — pick up my tab, will ya?
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The Sunglasses: Raen Optics Wiley Sunglasses — $135

Raen Optics

Sunglasses that blend retro style and casual vibes — just what the doctor ordered for your next bar crawl.

If you’ve got the basics of this outfit handled, it’s OK to go a little more retro-inspired, or head-turning, with your accessories. The Wiley Sunglasses from Raen Optics are but one way to do this — they call to mind the sort of shades McQueen might have worn, with a more affordable price tag. And they’re a nice way to fit in with a casual chambray shirt and laidback shorts — these aren’t your average athletic sunglasses, nor are they a cheaper grocery store version. Just right.
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The Hat: Huckberry Explorer’s Cap — $39.98

Huckberry Explorer's Cap

Vintage style that’s easily wearable and functional at the same time.

No one said it’d be all fun and games on Cinco de Mayo, right? There’s also the chance to catch a nasty sunburn after hours in the heat. So, the Huckberry Explorer’s Cap is going to keep the sun off your face, and do so in style. There’s no athletic logo in sight here — just a vintage-inspired ballcap that’s easily wearable with the basics, including a stylish chambray shirt. Wear it now, wear it on your next road trip and don’t forget to pack it with your stylish beach gear this summer.

The Bag: Billykirk Simple Tote — $184.98

Billykirk

A smart move that should prove quite useful and durable through this bar crawl and beyond.

If you’re questioning the necessity of lugging a bag to a bar crawl or party, well … where are you going to put your phone charger, and your bottle opener, and that six-pack? Answer: The Billykirk Simple Tote . Handsome, built to age well and last through plenty of seasonal adventures, and a heck of a casual bag to complement this ensemble. It avoids the cumbersome straps of a backpack, and yet it’s smaller and easier to carry when compared to a piece like the Bradley Mountain Utility Bag.
NORDSTROM.com

 OK, y’all — who’s ready for Cinco de Mayo? This guy is. Casual, off-duty style can be simple and quite fun, particularly if you start with a shirt that’s at once polished and laidback — enter the United By Blue Wenlock Chambray Shirt. And you’d do well to complement said shirt with equally laidback, wearable shorts; in this instance, the Katin Patio Shorts should have you all set for the day ahead. And crisp slip-on sneakers in a clean shade of white are an essential style move — enter the SeaVees Huntington Middie into your rotation. Practical touches, from stylish sunglasses to a vintage-inspired ballcap and a durable Billykirk tote are also must-have, especially if you’re hopping around town for hours at a time. And again, the key here comes down to nailing the fit and colors — and enjoying the day responsibly, of course. What are your Cinco de Mayo plans? Hopefully, they involve a few Coronas and a lot of fun.
Thanks so much for reading — enjoy!
-Beau
by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: United By Blue Wenlock Chambray Shirt

First things first: Make no mistake, the United By Blue Wenlock Chambray Shirt could be your new favorite spring and summer shirt. That’s why it gets top billing as today’s Style Pick of the Week — despite a closely contested race, it came down to one vote …. yours truly. And if you’ve read this blog, you know that United By Blue is a company that gets a lot of things right, from stylish essentials to sustainability. At any rate,  it’s pretty essential to have a closet stocked full of stylish short-sleeve  shirts regardless. And again, the Wenlock Chambray Shirt could just be that shirt. Think of a short-sleeve shirt as a slightly upgraded, more visually interesting version of your favorite summer polo — and for all those times when you want to throw on something nicer than a T-shirt, yet still casual, a piece like the Wenlock Chambray Shirt. It combines great looks, a unique lighter blue chambray fabric and a visually pleasing mini-plus sign pattern with the sustainable style for which United By Blue is known — and given that we just passed Earth Day, it’s perhaps more important now than ever to pay attention to where your clothes come from. So, know that with your purchase of the Wenlock Chambray Shirt, the brand will commit to remove one pound of trash from our oceans and waterways — not a bad pay-off for doing a little shopping, ehh? You get style points and sustainability — but lest we forget, the Wenlock Chambray Shirt still has plenty going for it in the looks department.
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United By Blue

A neat pattern, modern fit and sustainable style rolled into one package.

For one, the mini-plus sign pattern on the Wenlock Chambray Shirt is a nice departure from plain chambray shirts (as stylish as those are). And the light blue color makes this one easily wearable with slim chino shorts and classic white sneakers — especially classic white sneakers. It’s also modern enough to wear to this office under a lightweight blazer for deceptively cool and casual style (thank the short sleeves for that). And when the work day is done? Slip off that blazer and step up to the bar, ehh? The great thing about the Wenlock Chambray Shirt  is that it’s a reliable upgrade in plenty of situations — it looks just a little more put-together for a spring bar crawl or a day out and about around town than a T-shirt. Plus, you could feasibly wear it with a stylish, upgraded baseball cap to a ballgame, too. Oh, and the price — yes indeed, the price is a plus. Keep in mind that you get all this — versatile style, great looks and sustainability — for $68. Considering that you can wear it nearly everywhere — from a spring road trip to a day at the beach — that really is an agreeable going rate. So, whaddya say? Will you be picking up the Wenlock Chambray Shirt? Let me know in the comments or over at The Style Guide Facebook page. Cheers!

-Beau

Sutro Shoes Inc.

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: Cross Pens, Javier Bardem and Stylish Bar Crawl Gear

Welcome to another weekly #menswear recap, whereby we’re looking back at some choice reads you should tick through this weekend. How was your week? It was a busy one in the Brooklyn “office” of The Style Guide, what with a PR client event via my day job on Wednesday night at the luxurious Beekman Hotel and a plethora of blogging in between. It’s a tough, sometimes sleep-deprived gig, but someone’s gotta do it! And in that regard, I sure am glad it’s the weekend.

Sutro Shoes Inc.

If you’re setting out on a spring adventure, here’s the weekender bag you need to buy now. And if you could use some help organizing the rest of your gear, feast your eyes upon stylish dopp kits for spring travel. Oh, and if your weekend per chance calls for an early spring wedding? Wear any one of my picks for stylish men’s dress shoes to shop now. In the meantime, we’ve got a few more items for your perusal below — it’s quite tough to believe we’re nearly into May and staring down summer. I, for one, cannot wait for music festival season and a bit of summer travel. But for now, I think I’ll look toward Friday happy hour, some light reading and enjoyable spring weather. Join me, won’t ya? See you tomorrow for our Style Pick of the Week, and you can catch some of my style pursuits in the meantime on Instagram. Lastly — thanks for reading!
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  • I know I’ve been struck by the talent and deep, brooding and well, terrifying nature of some of Javier Bardem’s on-screen characters. Esquire continues to prove why they’re the best around when it comes to engaging and insightful profiles, and I’d urge you to check out their profile on Javier Bardem  from this month’s print issue. Better yet, get out there and buy a copy.
  • Want a light spring jacket or a pair of breezy trousers made with substantial, yet pliable, cotton fabric? Want them done up in one of a few beautiful shades of blue? That’s where the men’s and women’s style purveyors at 13 Bonaparte come into play. The French brand makes carefully crafted, refreshingly easygoing pieces fit for spring layering, from workwear shirt-jackets to band-collar shirts and unique, lightweight cotton trousers. The pieces are interchangeable via the brand’s numbered collection system (so, numbers 1-9, for example). The brand also releases two core collections a year, but it was the cool-looking denim shirt-jackets that caught my eye during a recent tour of the collection with Founder and Artistic Director David Sarfati. In all, it’s a continental take on pieces you already know  — and only through this weekend, you can find them in NYC! Venture on down to 2 Rivington Street through Sunday to get a look at the brand yourself, and shop the 13 Bonaparte site for more.
  • A lightweight spring henley is both specific and yet oddly tough to find, from time to time. I recently wrote about the Flint and Tinder Slub Henley and why you should buy it — and I’m here to tell you again: Buy it, layer it, wear it on its own… when those breezy spring and summer beach nights come along, you won’t regret it. And if you need an idea of just how to style it, take a look at our recent feature on how to upgrade your henley this season.

  • Looking for a new addition to your everyday carry? It would behoove you to check out the excellent, tech-minded Cross Pens Peerless TrackR Pen. This ballpoint pen blends a pleasing weight and nice writing ability with the sort of technology more common to a Bond film. It syncs up with an app that tracks its location at all times — not too shabby. And it’d be a great Father’s Day gift — if you’re shopping around early, that is.

Last but certainly not least ….

  • It seems to me that patio drinking season is in full force — at least, judging by the crowds around Brooklyn. Given that, I’d wager you’ll need some stylish bar crawl. And so I give you two guides: my 2016 guide to how to dress for a spring bar crawl, and my most recent bar crawl style guide for The Manual. Have a good one out there!

That’s it for today, folks.

Stay stylish for now,

-Beau

Greats

by Beau H.

Style Suggestion: How to Dress for Your Next Sunday Brunch

From dressing for a spring road trip to prepping for today’s style suggestion — gearing up for Sunday brunch — there are plenty of #menswear matters that require your full attention this season. So, listen up! Just kidding. We’ll keep it light and casual today –just as you should when putting together an ensemble for a casual late morning or early afternoon meal. Certainly, not everyone is a brunch fan — but count me in the pro-brunch camp, through and through. We talked last year about how to dress for your next Sunday brunch, but seeing as there are plenty of brunches in your future, it’s high time we updated the look — right? Given that knocking back a Bloody Mary or two comes at a cost — Saturday night festivities — it’s crucial to still look put-together while remaining comfortable and casual. With that being said, we’re mixing stylish Apolis slim chinos and a classic denim shirt with other versatile daily style staples — like an investment-worthy leather watch — that you should already have in your closet. Ultimately, keep it simple and keep it fun. Oh, and put a Bloody Mary on my tab — will ya? For style inspiration on the go you can hang with me on Twitter or Instagram, if you please.

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The Shirt: JACHS Light Denim Western Shirt — $75

JACHS

A nice way to switch up your rotation of Oxford shirts.

If you want to switch things up from a classic Oxford, there’s perhaps no better way to do it than a just-different-enough Western shirt. JACHS does excellent work when it comes to quality fabrics (all sourced by the brand), and the faded wash on this rugged denim shirt makes it an A-plus style move. Unique design details like the snap buttons and Western stitching round things out nicely for your next brunch outing.
Flint and Tinder

A neat base layer that provides a dose of comfort and style.

Flint and Tinder calls its Supima Air Knit Long-Sleeve Tee the “cashmere of cotton” that should be lightweight, breathable and nice for layering. While you could also layer a rugged henley under your denim shirt, a knit long-sleeve tee in a color like burgundy adds visual interest and provides another layer in case it gets breezy. And as with all Flint and Tinder gear, you’re getting quality style and great looks for your money.

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The Chinos: Apolis Standard Issue Chino in Hunter Khaki — $98

Apolis

A classic pair of chinos fit for a long Sunday brunch.

Way back in 2015, this site sang the praises of Apolis slim chinos, and we’re back for round two today. The brand works its magic using a mix of classic style, sustainability and ethical practices. For starters, the modern cut should be more than agreeable for bunch. Throw in the fact that these chinos are made responsibly in Peru, and the company’s Certified B Corporation status only adds to the brand’s significant style chops. Yessir, buy these and pair them with spring style essentials aplenty.

The Chukkas: Astorflex Greenflex in Dark Chestnut — $129.98

Astorflex

A comfortable, easy-to-wear and well-made suede chukka.

Want to casually and comfortable offset those slim chinos? Pick up some suede chukka boots from yet another brand that makes its gear with sustainability and serious style in mind — that would be Astoflex, folks. The brand’s suede chukkas are ridiculously comfortable and made with top-quality suede that ages well, for one. And the casual open lacing of these chukkas is a nice way to look put-together without having to break out stylish dress shoes (although you could do that, too). So kick back and order another one, maybe?

The Socks: American Trench Pima Cotton Houndstooth Socks — $29.50

Lighter fabric and a distinctive pattern make these socks suitable for spring brunch.

If you thought houndstooth as a pattern only worked in the colder climes of fall and winter, think again. Our pals over at American Trench have taken the distinctive pattern and applied it to a nice range of versatile, spring and summer-friendly socks. They’re pricey, that much is true, but from personal experience … they could just be the most comfortable pair of socks you own.

Sutro Shoes Inc.

The Watch: Farer Stark Watch — $475

Farer Stark Watch

A watch that blends vintage style details with a dressy design? Perfect for brunch.

Stark is perhaps the wrong name for this Farer watch — because it’s handsome and slightly rugged, yet refined … all at once. Sold via the good folks of Huckberry— as most great gear tends to be — it combines the utility of a chronograph with the distinctive look of a vintage watch your grandpa might have worn. Named after legendary British travel writer and adventurer Dame Freya Stark, it does indeed blend vintage styling details, such as the curved hands, with a dressy 39.5mm diameter. In short, the Farer Stark Watch absolutely belongs in your casual watch collection.
Florsheim

The Belt: La Matera Corbina Belt — $145
La Matera

Add some fabric and color to your belt game with La Matera — it’ll upgrade your accessories game significantly.

Because you should leave no stone unturned in the way of style upgrades, a nicely designed belt with cool detailing is the way to go. It’s not every day that a belt blends both full-grain cognac leather and fabric from Argentina woven on vintage looms, but then again, not every belt is the La Matera Corbina Belt. With that unique fabric and its beautiful design, it’s an easy way to add some subtle flash to this Sunday brunch ensemble.

The Wallet: Andar Wallets The Scout Wallet — $25

An essential upgrade for any guy — especially when it comes time for brunch.,

It might seem counterintuitive to spend a little money on something designed to … hold onto your money. But then again — no one wants a Costanza wallet situation, right? Speaking from personal experience, the slim Andar Scout Wallet goes with me everywhere and slides right into my front pocket, my back pocket, my blazer pocket — you name it. The leather will age nicely and look great, too. After all, you’re picking up the check at brunch — yeah?

NORDSTROM.com

Dressing for Sunday brunch and adventures thereafter doesn’t have to involve anything too complicated — veering ever-so-slightly away from the basics (like swapping a denim shirt for a classic Oxford) is a good place to start. Adding in stylish complements helps even things out, too– enter the Flint and Tinder Supima Air Knit Long-Sleeve Tee.

And offsetting that visually interesting combo is made easy thanks to classic, easygoing Apolis slim chinos and accessories like the vintage-inspired Farer Stark Watch. Don’t forget those finishing touches — the La Matera Corbina Belt is a good one to pick up, to say the least. With all that in your closet, the hardest part now is just picking out somewhere to go — Brunch Village, anyone?

Good luck and don’t eat the Pop-Tarts.

-Beau

Oxfords under $50 CAD_250x250

by Beau H.

#OOTD: How to Upgrade Your Pocket Tee This Spring

Morning (or afternoon … or evening), folks! Thanks for being with us as we talk how to upgrade your pocket tee this spring. In the men’s style world, never underestimate the importance and utility of a great-fitting T-shirt — especially one that you can wear in a way that’s slightly different from other spring style moves. Once you figure what size works for you, you can use said T-shirt to take on the world in style — particularly as the thermostat climbs. And if you want to switch up your T-shirt game, take a good, hard look at the humble pocket tee. Unlike a standard white tee, it’s got more going for it in terms of versatility and visually interesting looks — the chest pocket draws attention to, well, your chest, for starters. It’s the small details that make a stylish pocket tee suitable to wear on its own or layered up — as you’ll see in today’s #OOTD. We’re mixing a bit of a mononchromatic color palette with a statement-making tee, classic spring sneakers and all of the stylish everyday carry pieces you can get your hands on. It’s the sort of #OOTD you can reliably wear on a weekend coffee date or a spring bar crawl …. or both. What’d ya say? Let’s go to it. For style inspiration all 365 days of the year, follow along on Instagram.

Richer Poorer

A unique take on the pocket tee, accented with classic, spring-friendly style essentials.

The Pocket Tee: Richer Poorer Crew Pocket Tee in Pink, $32 — Think pink isn’t a color that’s made for you? Think again. We’re seeing a lot more of this dusty pink shade across menswear and women’s style, and using it as your base is a significant style upgrade.

The Shirt: Abercrombie and Fitch Two-Pocket Chambray Shirt, $35 — Why are we layering up our pocket tee with a stylish chambray shirt? For one, it’ll help combat any spring and summer breezes. And, number two: If you’re wary of the pink T-shirt, it takes some of the focus of it. Plus, a chambray shirt is a rugged essential for the entire year.

The Denim: Abercombie and Fitch Super Skinny Denim in Light Wash, $59 — Here’s where that monochromatic style we talked about earlier comes into play. This pair of stretch denim blends retro style with comfort — feel free to wear them to your next rock concert, too.
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The Sneakers: SeaVees Hermosa Regatta Sneaker, $88 — We here at The Style Guide absolutely love what’s being done by SeaVees across the board — the Hermosa Regatta Sneaker blends a unique spring color with a light weight and quite a lot of comfort and style.

The Socks: Darn Tough No Show Ultra-Light Cushion Socks, $29.98  — If you’re going to break out classic SeaVees sneakers, some no-show socks are in order — yes? Darn Tough makes some of the best around. Pricey, but comfortable and much-needed.

The Watch: Huckberry Combat B33 GMT Watch, $498.98 — We’ve waxed poetic about the durability and style of the rugged Huckberry Combat B33 GMT Watch, and its simple design makes it ideal for pairing with laidback pieces.

The Sunglasses: Sunski Madronas Sunglasses, $55 — Every so often, you want shades that are simple, stylish and affordable — that’s where the Sunski Madronas sunglasses come in very handy indeed. Yes indeed, these are definitely worth adding to any list of the best men’s sunglasses.

The Ballcap: Huckberry Explorer’s Cap, $39.98 — To keep the sun off your face during interminable hours sipping patio beers, reach for the vintage-inspired, well-made Huckberry Explorer’s Cap.

Beckett Simonon

Looking through the above #OOTD has me positively dreaming of cracking open a cold one on a patio somewhere — hopefully, you’re in the same boat. The key to this outfit revolves around the unexpected pink shade of the pocket tee, plus visually interesting layering via a classic light chambray shirt and slim light wash denim. Of course, it wouldn’t be an #OOTD without stylish spring sneakers — that’s where the Hermosa Regatta Sneaker has you covered.  And in that regard, you’re going to need a tough casual watch to take on spring excursions — that’s what the Huckberry Combat B33 GMT Watch can do for ya. And it’s with two personal favorites of mine that we close out this outfit — there might not be a more stylish ballcap out there than the Huckberry Explorer’s Cap, and for classic, functional spring style, it’s tough to get better than those Sunski Madronas shades. Would you wear your pocket tee in a similar fashion? Leave any feedback over on The Style Guide Facebook page, and join us tomorrow for a new Online Shopping Picks entry.

Stay stylish, my friends!

-Beau

Oxfords under $50 CAD_250x250

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: GREATS Brand, Todd Snyder and Casual Spring Style

Ladies and gentlemen, gather round — it’s time for another edition of The Friday Read here on The Style Guide. As we power through April, there are some exciting things on the horizon this spring in NYC. Namely, I’m excited to help host two great work events — both related to #menswear, naturally — in the next two weeks on behalf of Coyne Agency. The work never stops!  And yet, we’re churning out plenty of great style-related content here on the blog and via GearMoose and The Manual. Need transitional footwear for spring? I’ve got you covered. Wondering how to dress for a  spring road trip? Consider it taken care of. On other fronts, there’s plenty going on, as well — what have you been listening to, namely? The NYC music scene always seems to present new and exciting opportunities and shows around every corner — on that front, you can look for news of an exciting music-related writing venture on the way from yours truly in the coming weeks! In the meantime, start your weekend early with the best men’s style news of the week — and follow along for my weekend adventures over on Instagram and Twitter, 24/7.
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The mission of Mission Belt — quite literally — revolves around giving back to those in need through micro-loans that help them pursue their dreams.

      • Want a belt that’s more than just a belt? Seriously, you won’t be disappointed with Mission Belt. Crucially, the company makes sleek, essential belts with no holes — just an easy-to-slide adjustable track on the interior of the belt. Add in a range of clean and classic color options and belt combos, and you’re all set — but that’s far from it. The company puts part of each sale toward providing micro-loans for those in need across the world — these loans can go a long way, and often launch small business (such as the story of Mission Belt friend Luis Melendez, who turned an old bus into a mini transportation fleet and a growing business with the help of the company). Still not sold? The company’s belts are affordable, well-made and able to slide on and off easily — that’s the case if you pair ’em with everything from slim light wash denim to olive cargo pants.
      • Need a new pair of stylish spring sneakers in your rotation? Of course you do. And luckily for all of us, Esquire.com recently rounded up the best new spring sneakers. Among that list, the GREATS Royale and Wooster Sand and Perf Pack are particularly sharp and spring-ready. Wear ’em with a white polo and slim light wash denim for spring weekends …. starting right now.
      • So, you need new, stylish swim trunks for summer — right? Well, I’ve got you covered. It was a pleasure and an honor to speak once again with Mr. Todd Snyder for The Manual about the classic, essential Todd Snyder x Birdwell Beach Britches collaboration, featuring retro-inspired swim trunks, a beach towel and even a T-shirt; the fact that it’s all inspired by designs found in the Birdwell archives — and current rotation — is very agreeable and stylish indeed.

One last item before you go…

      • A useful, cleanly designed and well-made pen is among perhaps the more underrated everyday carry essentials for us stylish guys and gals — might I recommend the Inventery Mechanical Pen for all your daily writing needs? It’s among my latest offerings for GearMoose. Enjoy!

Alright — that’s all she wrote today. Let’s get onto the weekend! You can still expect another Style Pick of the Week tomorrow, and I think you’ll quite like it — just my opinion.

Thanks for reading!

-Beau

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