Tag / summer style essentials

by Beau H.

The List: Shop the Best Men’s Summer Style Essentials to Buy Right Now

Who else is a big fan of refreshing your wardrobe as the seasons change? For instance, we’re rolling full-steam ahead into June right now, and it’s high time you revamped your summer style essentials — that’s why we’re here today, after all. Today’s edition of The List covers all the bases, from an adventure-ready watch to beautiful black leather boots to a stylish short-sleeve shirt — and then some. Let me know if you dig these picks on The Style Guide Facebook page! Cheers!

Komrade White Pointer Watch — $799

The right specs to take on tough summer adventures in style.

Hard-wearing, durable and ready to go off-road, off-trail and into the water — and then to the bar — this summer. Komrade’s White Pointer Watch is just exceptional.
Nisolo Luciano Boots in Black — $258

Sleek leather boots that offer up just a dash of edgy style — even in the summer.

Sleek leather boots can still be worn through the summer months — the Nisolo Luciano Boots pair well with light wash denim and a rugged short-sleeve henley.
Buck Mason Denim Vintage Shirt — $105

A washed denim shirt that’s got plenty of layering potential for summer. Try it over a white slub tee with grey denim.

Buck Mason is a consistent Style Guide favorite for blending classic Americana with the modern edge. Take this handsome, stylish denim shirt — it’s got just the right blend of edgy style to wear however you please.
Finisterre Lerwick Shirt — $94.98

Part overshirt, part standalone shirt … all style.

Inspired by, as the brand says, “seashore mornings,” the Lerwick Shirt is as versatile on its own as it is atop a rugged henley. Which leads us to the next entry in this piece …
La Paz Ribas Henley — $55
Speaking of a stylish short-sleeve henley … the La Paz Ribas Henley is made from soft cotton and features a three-button placket, all the better to wear with a stylish denim jacket, slim chinos and timeless suede boots this summer. Bottoms up!
American Giant Roughneck Pants — $125

Perfect for a summer hike or a bonfire, to say the least.

What do you get when you merge the slim-straight cut of your favorite denim with rugged stretch canvas? The Roughneck Pants, of course.
Roark Revival Port Antonio Shirt — $60

Summer style without drifting too far into “crazy print” territory.

Roark Revival has managed to craft an understated, stylish printed shirt for all your summer adventures — namely, of the bar crawl or patio party variety.

Levi’s Trucker Jacket in Queen — $89.50

The light wash and cotton denim construction makes this Levi’s jacket ideal for summer nights.

When it gets breezy this summer, what are you going to wear? The Levi’s Trucker Jacket, of course. Don’t sleep on the layering potential of a stylish light wash denim jacket — pair this one with a classic white tee, tan chinos and white canvas sneakers.
Shinola Runwell Watch — $550

A handsome, classic and timeless watch — excellent work from Shinola, as always.

Another stylish watch in today’s edition of The List? Yes, my friends. Yes, indeed. The Shinola Runwell is classic, timeless and drool-worthy — worthy of being worn every day, all year round. Don’t you agree?
GANT Rugger Slim Indigo Chambray Shirt — $135

A rich indigo chambray shirt is a foolproof summer style essential. Easily!

A classic slim chambray shirt in a rich indigo color is a go-anywhere style move — wear it with dark denim and the Nisolo Luciano Boots to a concert, or pair it with tan chinos and white sneakers on a casual Friday at work.
CIVIC Antoni Tee — $55

Made from mercerized merino, this tee is exceptionally comfortable and easy to layer.

If you follow me on Instagram, you know I’ve been testing out the Antoni Tee from CIVIC (the partner brand of Taylor Stitch). The good news? It’s exceedingly soft and comfortable, plus it’s breathable in the heat and fits very well, to boot. Snap up the Antoni Tee ASAP for summer.
Miansai Hook on Leather Bracelet — $55

A cool-looking leather bracelet that embodies laidback summer style.

Want to add a shot of visual interest to your summer style ensemble without overdoing it? This stylish leather bracelet from Miansai is just cool and eye-catching enough to do the trick.

That’s going to do it for today’s edition of The List! What pieces can’t you get enough of from today’s post? I, for one, LOVE the La Paz Ribas Henley . To chime in, follow me on Twitter. Thanks for reading!

by Beau H.

#OOTD: Here’s the Best Way to Wear a Denim Jacket This Summer

In the hustle and bustle between holding down a PR job and keeping things (mostly) afloat at The Style Guide, there are days where I prefer to just grab and go when it comes to my personal style. Do you feel much the same way? Well, good sir (or madam!), today’s #OOTD is for you. We’re talking the best way to wear a denim jacket this summer — a classic denim jacket is a grab-and-go style move that I find myself making more often than not, especially in these somewhat breezy days of early summer, where a sunny afternoon can shift to a cloudy night quite quickly. The Levi’s Trucker Jacket shown below is a timeless style staple, a silhouette that looks good on any guy. It looks even better when paired with some crisp-yet-simple brown dress shoes and pieces like a tough leather belt. What’s more, a rugged denim jacket adds a bit of visual edge to even simple looks — take, for instance, the slim grey T-shirt and classic five-pocket pants featured below. That, to me, is grab-and-go style at its best. The type of style that looks polished and considered, but not too perfect. The type of style that’s perfect for, well, right now. Count this #OOTD as perfect for weekend happy hour or a patio party, or even a day on the road — you’d be surprised how handy a Levi’s Trucker Jacket can be (can you tell I’m a fan?). If you’ve got thoughts of your own on this #menswear ensemble, let me know on Twitter. Onward!

A classic denim jacket punches up this timeless #OOTD even more. Don’t you agree?

  • The Denim Jacket: Levi’s Trucker Jacket in Queen, $89.50 — The casual light wash and lightweight cotton construction make the Levi’s Trucker Jacket an easy summer layering move, particularly over a classic grey tee.
  • The T-Shirt: Taylor Stitch Triblend Tee in Grey, $38 — We’ve sung the praises of the Taylor Stitch Triblend Tee on the blog before. To be sure, the Triblend Tee in Grey is simple, comfortable and exceedingly well-made — it’s more than good enough to stand on its own.
  • The Pants: Flint and Tinder 365 Pants in Earth, $98 — The cut of jeans with the fabrication of chinos — the Flint and Tinder 365 Pants are an everyday staple that exude timeless, cool style — perfect for summer.
  • The Shoes: Thursday Boots Statesman Dress Shoes in Brown, $180 — The shoes really do make this outfit — understated dress shoes add a unique bit of high-low style here; they’re a cut above laidback high-top sneakers, so wear this look to get patio drinks at your favorite cocktail bar.
  • The Socks: Arvin Goods Camp Socks, $15 — No stuffy wool boot socks here — just well-made, breathable Arvin Goods socks with some nice texture and color.
  • The Belt: Levi’s Linden Roller Belt, $35 — A textured leather belt is going to keep this outfit firmly in casual territory– it’s a nice contrast to the crisp dress shoes and the stylish watch (you’ll see it in just a minute!)
  • The Watch: Shinola Runwell Watch, $550 — The beauty of a denim jacket-and-tee combo, matched up with simple-yet-sharp dress shoes? Your watch can toe that same line — the Shinola Runwell Watch is investment-worthy and sharp, yet it’s still a classic leather watch that’s understated enough to fit right in.
  • The Sunglasses: Raen Optics Wiley Sunglasses, $135 — Because the rest of this outfit is stylish, yet not over-the-top, your sunglasses can be used to inject just a bit of visual interest into the look. Turn to Raen Optics.

We’re turning the page on today’s #OOTD. Have you come around to the idea of wearing a classic denim jacket a little more casually this summer? When accessorized with the right staple pieces — like the simple-yet-effective Triblend Tee in Grey and the nicely tailored Flint and Tinder 365 Pants — it offers a bit of standout style without going overboard. It’s timeless, it’s rugged, it works for breezy summer nights and cool days … the Levi’s Trucker Jacket sure is a winner. That’s grab-and-go style personified. Crisp dress shoes are an interesting and unique substitution for classic sneakers — give it a try sometime and see where it takes you. Just because we’re going casual doesn’t give you an excuse to cut corners on the accessories front — start with a rugged leather belt from Levi’s, then add the Shinola Runwell Watch to seal the deal. Arvin Goods socks bring some sustainability and style into the equation — just the right amount of visual contrast when peeking out from underneath the cuff of your Flint and Tinder 365 Pants, ehh? On the eyewear front, Raen Optics has you covered in matters of both looks and functionality. Remember, the building blocks of any grab-and-go look are often pieces right in front of you — a cool denim jacket, an easygoing tee, some classic five-pocket pants. From there? Go anywhere you please this summer. Oh, and grab me a pint, will ya? Cheers!

by Beau H.

See Now, Buy Now: The Myles Apparel Elements Sweatpants Are Your New Weekend Favorite

Small styling details, a slim fit and a neutral, versatile color make these sweatpants an off-duty must-have.

As we always say here at The Style Guide, casual style certainly doesn’t have to be sloppy. Such is the case with the work being done by Myles Apparel — functionally based and rooted in off-duty athletic wear, the Elements Sweatpants are going to be a new weekend favorite this spring … and yes, well beyond. Yes indeed, we’re trading in your baggy tearaway sweatpants and athletic logo-riddled bottoms for a pair of stylish sweatpants fit for the modern man — one who enjoys casual weekend strolls and lazy mornings, of course. The Elements Sweatpants nod toward athleisure without venturing too far into the territory of gaudy logos or over-the-top styling. No sir, these are just an essential pair of sweatpants for cool weekend mornings on the lake or the beach, or evening bonfires this summer … and maybe even a quick pint or two at your local brewery (yes, you can wear sweatpants out in public! Check out our #OOTD series to start). Oh, and if you need a comfortable outfit to wear to work remotely? Start with the Elements Sweatpants.

The specs on the Elements Sweatpants are worthy of your purchase in and of themselves — we’re talking Storm Cotton, which just so happens to be both water AND stain-resistant. That’s perfect for a pair of sweatpants you can actually wear out of your house (maybe teamed with some classic men’s sneakers, methinks?). And although Myles Apparel makes these in multiple colorways, the deep navy River color is my pick for prime spring styling. Try out the Elements Sweatpants with a rugged henley, a dark blue denim jacket and timeless leather sneakers — that’s a look that works for weekend coffee or weekend beers. Or, dare I say it … a casual Friday at the office? Your call, my friends.

Thanks for reading!

by Beau H.

#OOTD: Here’s What You Need to Wear This Memorial Day Weekend

If the impending long weekend — Memorial Day weekend, to be precise! — snuck up on you, fear not! We here at The Style Guide are coming in hot with a new #OOTD geared to help you take on the weekend (and the rest of the summer) in versatile style that works for just about any circumstance. Traveling up the coast to see friends and family? Hopping on a plane to squeeze in a quick vacation? Lounging around by your pool or patio (or an apartment rooftop)? Picks like a classic navy polo and slim grey chinos are going to work wonders no matter the situation — as are some classic-yet-casual leather Oxfords and a go-anywhere watch with a significant nautical bent. In fact, this #OOTD really embodies what Memorial Day is all about — kicking back with family and friends, recognizing all that we have to be thankful for … and looking classic while doing it. The same stylish navy polo we outline below can pull double-duty under a khaki blazer at the office — with the same slim grey chinos, mind you — and it can also work with a rugged denim jacket and tan chinos, plus leather sneakers, for a nice dash of high-low style. But first things first — let’s use it as the building block for this stylish Memorial Day outfit. Enjoy the long weekend, my friends!

An #OOTD that works for plenty beyond just Memorial Day — trust me.

  • The Polo: Flint and Tinder Supima AirKnit Polo, $58 — Here’s that timeless navy polo we talked about. Laidback enough for a holiday BBQ, cleaned up enough for dinner and drinks the rest of the summer. Job well done, Flint and Tinder.
  • The Chinos: Taylor Stitch Democratic Chinos in Ash, $98 — Classic grey chinos that are polished than jeans and not as casual as shorts — the Taylor Stitch Democratic Chinos work well if it gets chilly out this coming weekend, too.
  • The Shoes: Sperry Gold Cup Crepe Leather Oxford, $199.95 — Leather Oxfords with the styling potential of a dress shoe and the comfort of a pair of sneakers — perfect for spending a lot of time on your feet traveling, cooking out or exploring a Memorial Day vacation hang.
  • The Belt: Levi’s Premium Icon Leather Belt, $48 — As I always say, don’t sleep on accessories when traveling or dressing for a holiday weekend. The Premium Icon Leather Belt adds rugged appeal to a classic ensemble.
  • The Watch: Alsta Nautoscaph II Watch, $895 — If you’re going to be spending time on the water this weekend, the durable Alsta Nautoscaph II Watch is ideal. And if not? It’s still going to look great for Memorial Day weekend.
  • The Sunglasses: Raen Optics Wiley Alchemy Sunglasses, $195 — The Wiley Alchemy Sunglasses from RAEN Optics blend retro flair with modern quality — the perfect pair of shades to wear all Memorial Day weekend.
  • The Grooming Essential: Ursa Major 4-in-1 Essential Face Tonic, $26 — Keep your face in top shape to start summer with Ursa Major — handy no matter what your plans might be this weekend.
  • The Finishing Touch: CIVIC Merino Boxer in Heather Black, $55 — Always an essential no matter what else might be on your packing list or in the rest of your ensemble, these comfortable, functional and sustainably made CIVIC Merino Boxers are an underrated style essential.

Wherever your Memorial Day weekend takes you, I’m convinced that you can’t go wrong with picks like a timeless navy polo and a go-anywhere pair of pants like the ever-versatile, practically essential Taylor Stitch Democratic Chinos. Casual leather Oxfords are a nice substitute for classic white sneakers, particularly if you happen to be traveling or if your activities take you somewhere a little more dressy. And on the accessories front, the small details surely matter — the Premium Icon Leather Belt is a solid choice for long weekend style, as is the nautically inspired Alsta Nautoscaph II Watch; yet again, if you happen to be heading to the water, you just can’t go wrong. I’d urge you to both pack and wear the well-made CIVIC Merino Boxers, and I’d also urge you to stock up on the 4-in-1 Essential Face Tonic from Ursa Major. Stylish shades shouldn’t be a Memorial Day weekend afterthought, either — the Wiley Alchemy Sunglasses from RAEN Optics take care of business in that regard. That’s about all you need for the weekend, right? Stylish shades, slim chinos, a classic navy polo and the right accessories. Let me know on Twitter where you plan to take this outfit for Memorial Day weekend, folks.

Thanks for reading!

 

-Beau

 

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: WP Standard Vintage Messenger

A ridiculously high-quality bag that’s going to break in very nicely over time.

Looking for a new everyday bag? One made with serious heritage quality and timeless style in mind? One that’s going to seriously amp up your everyday carry essentials? My friends, the WP Standard Vintage Messenger is that very bag, on all fronts. It’s, simply put,a beautiful leather bag that’ll age well and show character — it’s a fine complement to the rest of the WP Standard line, which features my favorite chambray shirt and my favorite rugged denim jacket (as seen on my Instagram), plus my favorite leather belt. Seriously, folks … WP Standard gear like the Vintage Messenger is absolutely no joke when it comes to style and substance. It’s a tricky balance in the ever-shifting world of fashion, which emphasizes disposable goods and the latest trends now more than ever. Yet, the WP Standard Vintage Messenger eschews all those entirely in favor of, well, just plain standout construction and superb quality. The Vintage Messenger is inspired by antique postal bags, so it’s certainly well-suited for everything from a weekend trip upstate to a cross-country trip to Portland to your daily grind. The handsome, durably crafted WP Standard Vintage Messenger really can do it all in matters of style and functionality, and the vegetable-tanned leather is going to take on a life of its own over time — that’s a very good thing indeed. 

It’s always impressive when a brand can build out a full set of products that truly complement each other — in this instance, the remarkable WP Standard Vintage Messenger fits right in with the brand’s handsomely crafted T-shirts, chambray shirting and outerwear. It’s also a surefire fit with your other summer style essentials, which means that you should take every opportunity to take it with you on summer adventures aplenty. External pockets and an interior laptop pocket give you plenty of space for everything you might need to bring with you, whether you head into the office or get dressed to work remotely. Again, the style and substance of the WP Standard Vintage Messenger tells a story all its own, especially when you bring this bag with you to a business casual day at the office or a weekend afternoon coffee run. That’s really what the best men’s accessories should do, right? Tell stories and speak for themselves in terms of style. In short, that’s why you need the WP Standard Vintage Messenger in your life, my friends.

Will the WP Standard Vintage Messenger be part of your next summer trip or your work commute? Tell me why at The Style Guide Facebook page. 

by Beau H.

The List: Roll Into Summer with the Best Men’s Style Essentials to Shop This Season

Do you feel ready for summer yet? Not quite? Maybe? That’s why we’re going to help you get into shape today (in terms of clothing, that is). Our ongoing series The List is focused on the best summer style essentials your money can buy, from an essential casual T-shirt to an investment-worthy suede jacket for chilly nights and long bonfires. Rest assured, these picks have you set for road trips and work days and cookouts aplenty. Shop on.

Flint and Tinder Graphic Tee in Vintage Black — $38

An easygoing tee with a subtly stylish logo.

There’s nothing wrong with working a little visual interest into your T-shirt rotation — the Flint and Tinder Graphic Tee is subtly stylish and very well-made.
Taylor Stitch Long Haul Jacket in Sand Suede — $848

Your answer as to what to wear to a late-night bonfire, an early morning hike … and everywhere in between.

Lest you think you won’t be needing a stylish jacket any time this summer … you will. And for my money’s worthy, the Taylor Stitch Long Haul Jacket is a perfectly rugged and casual piece for chilly mornings and nights aplenty.
New England Outerwear 2-Eye Chukka Moc — $270 

Durable moccasin-style boots that were practically made for lazy summer days.

There’s something about the classically preppy design of the 2-Eye Chukka Moc from New England Outerwear that would feel right at home when worn to backyard cookout … and maybe a sunset boat ride.
Taylor Stitch Minimalist Billfold in Canyon — $98

Is it possible for a wallet to be … handsome? With this Taylor Stitch billfold, it is.

When you reach for your wallet to pick up the tab on your next date this summer, make sure you reach for a well-crafted wallet like the Taylor Stitch Minimalist Billfold.
Levi’s Leather Moto Trucker Jacket — $498

Team up your slim Levi’s jeans with this badass leather moto jacket.

Full-grain black leather, a slim fit and classic detailing make this Levi’s leather moto jacket a beautiful and investment-worthy outerwear choice. Now all you need is a rock show to see.

Allen Edmonds Montauk Plain Toe Chukka Boots — $227.50 (When On Sale) 

Perhaps the best chukka boots your hard-earned dollars can buy this summer.

There’s quite literally not a thing wrong with these stylish suede chukka boots from Allen Edmonds. From the durable crepe sole to the simple, classic silhouette and construction, you’ve just found your new summer boots. Seriously.
Zodiac Super Sea Wolf ’53 Compression Watch — $1,195

A heck of a watch, with the construction, performance and price tag to match.

Want a watch with an eye-popping price tag … and stunning quality? The Zodiac Super Sea Wolf ’53 Compression Watch delivers on both fronts. Talk about an investment-level timepiece.
Raleigh Denim Graham Jeans — $225

Richly crafted jeans made with heritage quality.

Beautifully made light wash jeans in an agreeable cut are going to be a style secret weapon of sorts the next time you feel like going casual and laidback this season.
Well, that’s closing out this edition of The List.  Of the above picks, which ones can’t you get enough of? I love both the ruggedly casual style of the Zodiac Super Sea Wolf ’53 Compression Watch and the investment-worthy quality of the Taylor Stitch Long Haul Jacket. Feel free to chime in on Twitter, and thanks for reading!
by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Faherty Brand Bliss Henley

A blend of both rugged appeal and old-school cool make the Bliss Henley a surefire summer style essential.

Don’t have a short-sleeve henley in your summer style rotation yet? Let’s fix that today, folks. Wary of adding another tee to your overstuffed T-shirt drawer? Fear not, because the Faherty Brand Bliss Henley sets itself apart from the bevy of other tees in your rotation thanks to its rugged style, its enduring versatility and the fact that it’s got, well, quite the “cool” factor. A rugged men’s henley is the T-shirt upgrade you didn’t know you needed … to say the least. A classic henley features visually interesting details, quality construction and go-anywhere appeal for summer — the Faherty Brand Bliss Henley certainly checks all those boxes. And a shirt like the Bliss Henley is the one to splurge on as summer quickly approaches. A stylish henley is a shirt that darn near every guy just looks great in — no matter your age or fitness level. It’s got a classically cool appeal that nods to sporting heritage and yet teams nicely with all manner of spring and summer style staples — see, doesn’t the Faherty Brand Bliss Henley seem like a solid purchase already? Better yet, it channels the laidback cool at which Faherty Brand excels … yet it’s wearable in plenty of other locales aside from the beach and the boardwalk. Chalk up another win for the Faherty Brand Bliss Henley.

The specs and construction of the Faherty Brand Bliss Henley aren’t to be slept on, either — hence the rather high price tag. Rest assured, Faherty Brand doesn’t skimp on quality fabric or design. The pleasingly light wash indigo-dyed cotton jersey fabric is substantial enough to rest easily underneath a rugged denim jacket (alongside slim tan chinos and white sneakers), but it’s also durable enough to work on its own when paired up with slim grey denim and classic suede boots. Shell buttons add a bit more dependability and visual interest to the Faherty Brand Bliss Henley, too. Did I mention the fit is tailored, yet not too tight? Perfect for flattering any guy’s frame. It’s also got a nicely lived-in feel, thanks to the garment-washed finish — it’s going to look and feel like it’s been a summer style essential for years, right out of the box. That’s the type of gear that  Faherty Brand does so well, and it means that the Bliss Henley is a worthy pickup, no matter how full your T-shirt drawer might be at the moment. How’s that for a must-buy menswear pick this season?

Thanks for reading!

 

-Beau

by Beau H.

See Now, Buy Now: Here’s Why You Need the Outerknown Journey Jacket For Your Next Trip

Available in two colors, the Outerknown Journey Jacket is a winner when it comes to versatile, travel-friendly style.

Wait, hold on a second — don’t hang up or put away your collection of stylish men’s outerwear just because we’re rolling through May right now. No no, there’s still plenty of reason to keep a versatile transitional jacket handy — especially if you’re planing a spring or summer trip (or five). Chilly nights, cold plane A/C, unexpected rain … it all demands a jacket that can do it all. As luck would have it, the exceedingly versatile, casual-but-not-too-casual Outerknown Journey Jacket is the one you need for your next trip. In the evermore laidback times we live in, a transitional jacket like the Outerknown Journey Jacket is going to be your best friend when it comes to freeing up space in your bag. Think of this classic jacket, inspired by the old military M-65 coat, as a sort of blazer replacement, a do-it-all jacket that offers added storage space, lightweight protection from the elements, and sharp, sleek style. The Navy Outerknown Journey Jacket is the top pick here according to your neighborhood Style Guide editor, but you really can’t go wrong with either option. It’s also somewhat similar to the equally versatile and durable Taylor Stitch Ojai Jacket — both are handy and nearly required for cool spring and summer nights.

The 4oz. twill fabric used to craft the durable Outerknown Journey Jacket is made from organic cotton and hemp, a bonus if you’re into responsible sourcing and production (which you certainly should be). A handy hood even packs into a collar zipper, offering crucial protection from the elements — again, an underrated design feature that’ll prove quite useful if your next trek takes you somewhere particularly rainy.  The Outerknown Journey Jacket really nails that essential blend of functionality and style — the snap closure hip pockets offer space for everyday carry essentials, like a streamlined wallet or a stylish leather passport holder. And the overall aesthetic is one that just screams 2018. A stylish field jacket  is the functional, dressed-down blazer replacement you’ve been looking for. The Outerknown Journey Jacket works with a crisp white tee, faded blue denim and classic suede boots as well as it does with olive chinos, a white Oxford and leather brogue dress shoes. Taken all together, the Outerknown Journey Jacket belongs on your packing list for your next trip, certainly.

Who’s going to go right out and buy the Outerknown Journey Jacket? Let me know via The Style Guide Facebook page. 

by Beau H.

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

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

 

men's style essentials

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

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

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

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

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

Timex

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

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

Florsheim

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

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

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

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

-Beau

Greats

by Beau H.

The List: Buy This New Men’s Gear for August

As a #menswear fan — and I mean, a BIG fan — it can be tough to sort through the plethora of men’s gear out there. That’s why I hope our ongoing Style Guide series The List is proving helpful, or at least intriguing and interesting. Oh, and hopefully not too expensive? But who’s to say, right? This post today marks the fourth entry in this ongoing journey through, well, a little of this and that. From stylish men’s home goods to the best summer sneakers and one or two (or three!) of the best men’s casual watches, this series covers a bit of everything. Get your credit card ready — or just your wish list — and read on. Thanks for kicking off your month with The Style Guide!

Bespoke Post Refresh Box — $45

Bespoke Post Refresh Box

One box packed with great gear for the price.

Leave it to Bespoke Post to offer up yet another affordable subscription box with tons of useful gear for the price.

Pacifico Optical Blair Sunglasses — $155

Pacifico Optical

Stylish, classic and easy to wear with just about anything.

Have you completed your search for stylish summer sunglasses yet? Finish it up with these crisp, subtly Pacifico Optical sunglasses.

American Trench Dress Socks (Six-pack) — $99

American Trench

Not one or two or three .. but SIX pairs of excellent American-made socks.

While it’s certainly essential to keep stylish no-show socks on hand for the summer months, classic dress socks from American Trench are just as essential to stock up on – agreed?

Areaware Concrete Desk Set — $50

Areaware

Like your regular office supplies … but better.

We’re back to Bespoke Post for a set of stylish, underrated and essential home goods. It’s the little details that count, and organization is certainly among them.

Brathwait Classic Slim Wrist Watch — $229

Brathwait

A clean, crisp and versatile watch.

For all this talk of rugged field watches and the like, it’s sometimes nice to wear a pleasingly crisp, simple and retro-leaning dress watch – like this one.

Bull & Stash Travel Stash Leather Journal — $25

Bull & Stash

A beautiful way to upgrade your everyday carry.

Bull & Stash makes leather goods of ridiculously great quality, and its Stash Leather Journal is certainly among that offering.

Korchmar Centennial Taft Limited-Edition Weekender — $620

Korchmar Centennial

Possibly the last weekender bag you’ll ever buy — agreed?

Every bit worthy of your hard-earned cash, this handsome and stylish weekender bag is the drool-worthy accessory you should pick up for every single trip for years ahead.

Oxford Pennant “Kill the Closest Snake” Pennant — $25

A rugged, eye-catching pennant to upgrade your office and your home in equal measure.

Perhaps you caught our Style Q+A with Oxford Pennant talking how to upgrade your home décor – and here’s one of the first pieces you should buy as part of that process.

Citizen Eco-Drive Chandler Watch — $220

A field-ready, supremely tough and relatively affordable Citizen Eco-Drive watch.

Much like the Brathwait watch featured above, this Citizen Eco-Drive watch is crisply made and versatile – ideal for summer and beyond.

With that last item … we’re closing out this set of additions to The List! What was your favorite pick of the above? I’m personally a huge fan of Oxford Pennant and particuarly, the rugged and edgy pennant option shown above. But again, it’s tough to pick just one! What do you think of these picks? Let me know on Twitter — looking forward to hearing from y’all!

Thanks so much for reading,

-Beau