Tag / summer style essentials

by Beau H.

Hitting the Beach: A Memorial Day Weekend in Florida

Equal parts preppy, classic and laidback. Slim-Fit Player’s Shirt by Criquet Shirts. Surf n’ Turf Hybrid Shorts by Volcom. Leadbelly Sunglasses by Electric. Bransen Dive Watch by CHAPS. Shot on an iPhone 7 Plus.

As the week dawned rainy and a bit chilly in NYC,  my mind turned immediately toward sunny Florida –I knew I needed a vacation. And that’s just what I got, as I spent these past few days celebrating Memorial Day weekend in style. I always relish the chance to hop a quick flight south to my parents’ adopted home of Fort Myers, that much is true.  Close to pristine beaches and blue water, near to a great craft beer brewery or two, and surrounded by great times, close friends and family and a hearty helping of gourmet home cooking — it’s always a treat! Of course, if you follow me on Instagram, you’re familiar with my visits. And if not? Settle in for a few tips on men’s travel style from my trip. I last trekked down to Florida with my favorite #menswear during a Style Guide spring break visit this past March, and that came not long after I celebrated Christmas in style in Fort Myers. That being said, it never gets old ditching rugged spring outerwear for a bit of much-needed sun! And as always, this trip put my packing mettle to the test.

From NYC to Fort Myers, menswear in tow. Trucker Jacket by Levi’s. Striped Pocket Tee and Cropped Stretch Cotton Chinos by JACHS NY. SYD Leather Watch by Nautica. Havana Sunglasses by Component. Nylite Sneakers by Abercrombie & Fitch x Tretorn. Brass bottle opener and Flight Brief by Owen and Fred. Fillmore Headphones by LSTN Sound Co. Explorer’s Cap by Huckberry.

My last major trip took me to Pittsburgh to see Local Natives — needless to say, conditions were a little bit different (in a great way!), as I hopped a quick flight to Fort Myers. To take on a breezy NYC day and travel thereafter, my Levi’s Trucker Jacket in a seasonally friendly light wash was an easy-to-wear outer layer — and it was just as easy to cram into my trusty Owen and Fred Voyager Waxed Weekender when getting off the plane in Fort Myers. Thanks to my casual office dress code, I was able to sneak in two great pieces from my pals at JACHS NY — the breathable, comfortable Striped Pocket Tee and sharp Red Cropped Stretch Cotton Chinos, featuring a single pleat for modern style. Be on the lookout for similarly easygoing pieces for your next jaunt to a warm-weather locale — and perhaps bring along your own pair of the Abercrombie & Fitch x Tretorn Nylite Sneakers, as I did. When teamed up with my rugged-yet-crisp Nautica SYD Leather Date Watch and my reliable Huckberry Explorer’s Cap, the combo worked for the plane ride … and then grabbing a Corona shortly after arrival.

Beach essentials for a sunny Florida day. T-shirt by Flint and Tinder. 311 Boardshorts by Birdwell Beach Britches for Todd Snyder. Calypso Watch by MVMT Watches. Legend Sneakers by SeaVees. Sunglasses by Component. Pomade by Fatboy Hair.

As it so turns out, Friday was a bright, beautiful and sunny day in Florida — the absolute perfect day to hit the beach and kick off a mini-vacation. No matter where your travels take you, you should start the day with men’s grooming essentials — as it were, I styled my ‘do for the day with the clean and sharp Sea Salt Pomade from Brooklyn’s own Fatboy Hair. And on the apparel front: Simple style always starts with the basics — like a stylish Flint and Tinder T-shirt, made in America with marled fabric. It was a classic complement to my new favorite pair of swim trunks, the beach-ready 311 Boardshorts from the excellent Birdwell Beach Britches for Todd Snyder collaboration.

Oxfords under $50 CAD_120x90

Stylish beach gear (Corona not included) from the Birdwell Beach Britches for Todd Snyder collaboration and my new Component sunglasses. Shot on an iPhone 7 Plus.

And it wouldn’t be a day of exploration without my Legend Sneakers from the fine folks at SeaVees — effortless style finely accented by the durable, handsome and functional MVMT Watches Calypso Watch.  And for kicking back on the beach, I needed a few more items. Step one: Enter the stylish headphones via the Vibes Box from Bespoke Post. Step two: Enter my wearable and sharp Component sunglasses . The next time you head to the beach, don’t leave behind your stylish beach gear. And with a day of beach-going and pool relaxation in the books, it was time for a classic Hayhoe family cookout. I’d tell you all about my dad’s ribs, but that recipe is a secret!

Functional picks that mix the preppy — my Criquet Shirts Slim-Fit Player’s Shirt — with the utilitarian (my Volcom Surf n’ Turf Hybrid Shorts). Reazer Drive Loafers by Clarks. Leadbelly Sunglasses by Electric. Bransen Diver by CHAPS.

Of course, no trip to Florida would be complete without a Saturday trip to Fort Myers Beach — teamed with seasonal style that fit right in, of coruse. In this instance, that meant my new Volcom Surf n’ Turf Hybrid Shorts were a comfortable, transitional style move — able to move seamlessly from water to land thanks to quick-drying technology. The tailored fit also nicely complemented my slim, tailored and classic Criquet Shirts Slim-Fit Player’s Shirt in a crisp shade of white. You might recognize the Slim-Fit Player’s Shirt from a recent Style Pick of the Week entry — I can vouch that it performed admirably in the heat as I soaked up the sun and sipped a few Coronas.
Sutro Shoes Inc.
And the next time you want to inject a bit of continental style into a polo-and-shorts combo, take the Clarks Reazor Drive Loafer in a bright shade of Blue Nubuck — mine proved quite comfortable and very easy to slip on and off. And when matched up with stylish accessories (specifically, the Electric Leadbelly Sunglasses and the well-priced CHAPS Bransen Diver, courtesy of the brand), I was more than set for a full day of exploration in the Florida sun. A dive watch and versatile shades will work anywhere you travel this summer — especially Florida.

Greats

Gear that doesn’t compromise style in the heat. Wenlock Chambray Shirt by United by Blue. Linen trousers by Bridge and Burn. Penny loafers by Sebago. SYD Leather Watch by Nautica. Brass bottle opener by Owen and Fred. Sunglasses by Component. Pencil by Delfonics.

It should come as no surprise that a day of rest and relaxation — along with another backyard BBQ — was in order on Sunday following two busy days in the sun. I still took on the heat in style though, starting with my slim-fitting and uniquely designed United By Blue Wenlock Chambray Shirt. You might recognize this United By Blue summer essential from my Style Pick of the Week series — with a tailored fit, soft fabric and a cool pattern, the Wenlock Chambray Shirt proved a Florida winner. Particularly when matched up with my cotton-linen blend Bridge and Burn Roark Olive Trousers, I stayed quite cool in the sun. Getting around was also made easier thanks once again to my Component sunglasses, mixing vintage inspiration and a modern edge. I was pleased once again with the tough functionality of my Nautica SYD Leather Date Watch, and I injected a bit of dressy detailing into the ensemble with the Sebago Legacy Penny Loafers in a head-turning shade of red leather. Look for similar day-to-night, transitional pieces the next time you’re searching for a full-day, warm-weather outfit.

Plenty of #menswear to pack into my Owen and Fred Voyager Waxed Weekender, from my Criquet Shirts Slim-Fit Player’s Shirt to my Ministry of Supply Going Places Shorts. Waterbury Chronograph by Timex. Sneakers by Gola. Leadbelly Sunglasses by Electric. Steno Book by Field Notes Brand.

Monday so far promises a full day of Florida relaxation — and a crucial day off work — before heading back to NYC. I brought more on-point gear to fight off the heat, starting with another Criquet Shirts Slim-Fit Player’s Shirt — the organic cotton  of the Slim-Fit Player’s Shirt is breathable and comfortable. My Ministry of Supply Going Places Shorts also do a fine job at wicking sweat in a tailored silhouette. And my Gola Classics Comet Plimsoll Trainers add a dash of sporty style to this classic look. Of course, my durable and rugged Timex Waterbury Chronograph (in a cool matte black) has so far paired up nicely with my Electric Leadbelly Sunglasses for one last day in the Florida sun.

Looking back on this weekend, it absolutely brought with it everything I had hoped for — relaxing beach time, some much-needed sand and sun (as always), and plenty of meaningful time with family. In the hustle and bustle of New York City (and in the hustle and bustle of planning for these trips!), life can sometimes fly by very quickly, and yet … this weekend was simply the ideal way to kick off summer. I hope you experienced much of the same on your end this weekend. Know that there’s plenty more travel and plenty more menswear to come on The Style Guide, including a look tomorrow at what to wear to a music festival.

Thanks, as always, for reading!

-Beau

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Norton Point Charlie 014 Sunglasses

The classically inspired and uniquely stylish sunglasses you need now.

We’ve reached that critical time of the early summer season – you’re heading to the beach or the pool, you reach into your desk drawer or glove compartment looking for your trusty sunglasses … and they’re gone. Forgotten in the scramble to dress for the polar vortex this past winter. What are you going to do? Well, the easy answer is to be prepared in the first place – that is to say, you’re going to want to upgrade your summer style with a pair of stylish men’s sunglasses, ASAP. And given that it’s Memorial Day weekend and all – with ample time to recognize the occasion and enjoy lovely weather – you should hop to it as soon as possible. Which brings us to today’s Style Pick of the Week:  The Norton Point Charlie 014 Sunglasses. Yessir, mark my words – these are the stylish sunglasses to pair with all of your summer essentials. That goes for slim light wash jeans and a classic pocket tee to stylish swim trunks and a rugged short-sleeve henley – and we’re really just getting started.  Why is now the time to drop a bit of cash on sunglasses? For one, that versatility we always talk about is key – a classic pair of sunglasses can be worn with everything from a tailored suit at a summer wedding to your best beach gear; these aren’t your average athletic-minded sunglasses, and they certainly aren’t a cheap grocery store pair. Even if you’ve got a tendency to misplace sunglasses, I’d argue that buying a nicer pair means you’ll keep much, much better track of them.

There’s a reason classic sunglasses like the Clubmaster-inspired Norton Point Charlie 014 Sunglasses have such staying power. Like the very best pieces in menswear – a tough chambray shirt, dark blue denim or an essential henley – they offer a shot of classic style, timeless appeal and the rugged good looks that instantly amp up your style credibility. Even if you’re not built like James Bond, the Norton Point Charlie 014 Sunglasses look extremely sharp, no matter the situation or pairing. And when you team them up with the aforementioned summer style essentials? That’s a winning combo. These Norton Point sunglasses eschew the neon colors of, say, spring break sunglasses, and they avoid the tendencies of some high-fashion sunglasses, which can sometimes look … a bit off. It’s with those keys in mind that your humble Style Guide author can confidently recommend these Norton Point sunglasses  for summer weekends and beyond. They’re exactly the type of sunglasses you should have handy when you plan out what to pack for your next road trip, and they’re a reliably ready everyday pair, too. Who know sunglasses could be so essential? Or so easy to keep track of? Let me know what you think of the Norton Point sunglasses  via Twitter, or leave a note in the comments below.

Good luck out there, enjoy the weekend and stay stylish!

-Beau

Greats

Sutro Shoes Inc.

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: The xx, Stitch Fix and Menswear Essentials to Own

As I write this edition of the Friday Read, I’m kicking off day two of a much-needed and long-awaited trip to Florida to see my family! I was previously here on a little Style Guide spring break of sorts back in March, but given the Memorial Day weekend holiday, it’s even better to be back. That also begs the question — what are you wearing this weekend? Hopefully, you’ve got a stylish pair of spring sneakers in tow for wherever your travels might take you.  Of course, you’d do well not to forget stylish accessories, like essential grooming accessories or a great pair of headphones. In that case, the Bespoke Post Vibes Box would probably be of interest — trust me.  As it were, I’ve got all of those essentials with me here on this trip (but if you follow me on Instagram, you know that already).  In any case, let’s look back on this past week. In addition to keeping up with all things menswear, I also had the stunning, nearly unheard-of chance to see British electro-pop rockers The xx play two incredible shows (back-to-back!) last weekend at the lovely, iconic Forest Hills Stadium in Queens. Touring behind one of the year’s best albums — the beautifully crafted “I See You,” they’ve come into their own more than any time before — the result is a poignant, moving and emotional show. In short, go see them on their expanded North American tour! It’s worth a listen as you kick back on Friday evening, absolutely. And with that, I’ll leave you to this week’s #menswear news.

Sutro Shoes Inc.

Stitch Fix

Via the Stitch Fix styling service, you can get pieces like the Cole Haan Grand Pro Sneaker delivered right to your door — as easy as it gets. Cotton jersey blazer and white chinos by Johnston and Murphy. Striped T-shirt by Bourbon and Blue. Watch by Nautica. Adventure Log by Word Notebooks.

  • Ever feel like your wardrobe could use a seasonal refresh? Same here.  Yet, there are other — even easier  — Stitch Fix ways to get expert style advice. Namely, the good folks at offer personalized styling services that result in a sharp selection of menswear for your enjoyment (like the sharp, easy-to-wear Cole Haan Grand Pro Sneakers seen above — my favorite from my own box!). Seriously, it’s all customized to your tastes after a series of simple questions. And what’s more, you only pay for what you keep. Yes indeed, it’s that great. I’d encourage you to sign up for Stitch Fix now — you won’t regret it!

  • Let’s talk more menswear, shall we? When Sunspel puts its stamp of approval on a collaboration, you can be sure it’s got the goods — the brand made James Bond’s polo shirt in Casino Royale, for goodness’ sakes. So that’s what makes the brand’s approach on its Sunspel x Iffey Road collaboration so neat. The heritage knitwear maker teamed up with the British running gear aficionados on pieces like the functional, breathable and technical Stanton Pique Polo, for instance. It features Iffey Road’s drirelease fabric merged with the same silhouette as the brand’s Riviera Polo. That’s a winning combination. And if you’re a track fan, you might recognize the name Iffey Road — it’s the site where Sir Roger Bannister broke the 4-minute mile mark in 1954. In short: That should be more than enough performance pedigree (and style!) to keep you cool all summer long.

Greats

  • Alright, let’s keep it moving here toward the weekend — shall we? I had a heck of a fun time pulling together an extensive — and I mean, extensive — list of the 25 menswear essentials you need to own for The Manual. You’ll recognize picks from Style Guide favorites like Abercrombie & Fitch, Todd Snyder, Apolis and plenty more. How many of those picks do you have? Let me know over on Twitter, if you please.

We’ll wrap things up early today — for now, I’ve got to hit the beach! I’ll catch you on the blog with our regular Style Pick of the Week tomorrow, followed by a full travel style recap incoming on Monday.

Thanks for reading — surf’s up!

-Beau

Florsheim

by Beau H.

#OOTD: How to Dress for a Casual Summer Day

Editor’s note: You’ve surely seen this hashtag lots of different places, including on Instagram. But how does that carry over to real life? The #OOTD will take one great item and put together a versatile, stylish outfit around it. Look for past features here.

Past #OOTD features here at The Style Guide have tackled everything from dressing up linen pants to dressing down a chambray blazer, but what about those times when you just …. need something in-between to wear? The title of this #OOTD might be a dead giveaway, and it might be a bit “boring,” but maybe you’re grabbing coffee and groceries and then a beer or lunch, maybe you’re strolling through the park  — but it’s a casual scenario, it might be hot (but it could get a bit breezy later), and you want comfort, good looks and an easy-to-wear #menswear ensemble.  That’s the aim of today’s #OOTD — it’s taking somewhat expected pieces (like classic, slim denim and a V-neck tee) and matching them up in a way that’s cool, simple and effortless (and more on why we’re sticking with denim in a second). If you want more daily styling tips or appreciate a great outfit grid (as I do), check out my Instagram feed for more — and chime in on Twitter with suggestions on topics for the next #OOTD. Got it? Good!
Huckberry

Pairing up items you've already got -- like a V-neck tee -- with sharp sunglasses, lightweight sneakers and a trusty denim shirt.

Pairing up items you’ve already got — like a V-neck tee — with sharp sunglasses, lightweight sneakers and a trusty denim shirt.

The Denim: Mott & Bow Slim Mercer Light Denim, $108 — Mixing things up from typical dark or light wash denim is a must, and the light tan color of these jeans matches up pleasingly well with blue and grey — as you’ll see below. Plus, they’re a little more versatile than shorts — although if it gets too hot, those would work fine here.

The T-Shirt: Life/After/Denim Club V-neck Tee, $58 — Here’s the casual part of the outfit –a garment-dyed V-neck tee in a rich blue color that fits slim and looks better than a standard crewneck tee.

The Overshirt: JackThreads The Denim Shirt, $34.99 — A light wash denim shirt is an unexpected summer style move — lest you think it’s too heavy, know that this shirt is lightweight and should offset the deeper blue of the tee nicely; wear it slightly buttoned up for a layered look, or leave it open during a stroll by the lake.

The Watch: Timex x Todd Snyder Mod Watch, $138 — Lest we get too far ahead of ourselves, know that this Timex x Todd Snyder watch is indeed on backorder — but it should ship soon, and you’ve got the perfect #OOTD ready when it does.

The Sneakers: UGG Freamon Sneakers, $110 — Am I the only one who didn’t know that UGG made men’s sneakers? Maybe so? Either way, this pair of chukka sneakers features water-resistant suede, lightweight traction & a nicely versatile color.

The Belt: Arcade Belt Co. Crawford Belt, $36 — Style comes down to the details, and this belt combines the look of a crisp tan leather belt with a high-tensile navy elastic for comfort.

The Socks: American Trench Pima Cotton Houndstooth Socks, $22.98 — American Trench reliably makes excellent socks that breath well even in the heat, and these should be no exception. Again, if it’s too hot, trade the denim for shorts and swap in a pair of stylish no-show socks.

The Sunglasses: Randolph Engineering Aviator Sunglasses in Gunmetal, $209.98 — When you’re pairing up classic pieces like a denim shirt and a V-neck tee, there’s no need to go overboard with your shades; classic aviators are the way to go here.

The above outfit might not gain you major street style snaps, but it’s effective, solid and reliably stylish because the basic pieces are well-made and well-fitting. Plus, accessories like a  crisp NATO strap watch and classic aviator sunglasses can take you anywhere the rest of the season. And that denim shirt can also work in the fall when layered over your favorite long-sleeve henley. The more scenarios you can take on with one outfit, the better off you’ll be — and that’s the case with this #OOTD. Got any feedback? Give us a shout in the comments below! And be on the lookout for a great reader giveaway coming up tomorrow.

Join Frank & Oak Elevate - Enjoy FREE Shipping, Cashback + more at Frank + Oak! Try it now for 90 days, risk free!

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Sock Genius No-Show Socks

Editor’s note: Expect these posts weekly detailing one standout item coveted by yours truly. Sometimes, these fit within budgetary restrictions and other times, they’re expensive splurges worth saving for. For more Wish List items from Beau, head here, and to see other Style Picks, head here.

A whole post on socks? Sure thing, especially when they're comfortable and well-fitting ones from the Sock Genius line at Ties.com.

A whole post on socks? Sure thing, especially when they’re comfortable and well-fitting ones from the Sock Genius line at Ties.com.

Before we dive into this week’s post, know that the title is no mistake — we’re really talking no-show socks here today. And there’s plenty of good reason for that. It’s the end of July — so it’s plenty hot, and that heat isn’t going anywhere any time soon. If you snagged a pair or two (or heck, three) of no-show socks near the start of summer, you’ve probably been wearing them a lot. After all, they’re an essential to pair up with classic leather sneakers  or even suede Derby shoes beneath your favorite pair of rolled chinos. And if they’ve seen a lot of wear, maybe they could use a refresh. And maybe you want to check out a new, inexpensive and high-performing brand — that’s where the Sock Genius line of socks through Ties.com slides into the equation (and onto your feet). The brand’s no-show socks come in a range of patterns and colors, although a personal favorite is the Villa Park Stripe No-show Sock as seen above. In fact, I happen to be rocking this weekend on a trip back to Michigan to complement some classic SeaVees sneakers (more on that on Monday, though). The point is, once you give Sock Genius no-show socks a try, you might want to pick up plenty more pairs. And given that the quality and pricing is quite agreeable, it’s worth it — I was definitely pleased when I wore one of the brand’s ties and a sharp pocket square to a recent Michigan wedding, and I’ve found their no-show socks to be similarly pleasing to wear.

One of the many color and pattern combinations available through Ties.com and its Sock Genius line.

The La Habra no-show sock — one of the many color and pattern combinations available through Ties.com and its Sock Genius line.

Buck Mason - Timeless Design. Made in America.

Just like a comfortable and well-fitting pair of boxer briefs or a high-performing undershirt, the basics that are closest to your skin should stand up to the heat of the summer — that’s particularly true when being on your feet during the hot summer months. And whether you’re heading to Sunday brunch or bringing along a cooler to a backyard barbeque, you need no-show socks that can handle a lot. Plus, it doesn’t hurt that the variety of Sock Genius options (nearly 20)  combine nice patterns and colors that don’t look bad at all when it’s time to slip off your… slip-on sneakers, ehh?. If a pop of color (like the La Habra seen above) is too much though, they’re also offering up a classic four-pack of solid no-show socks for $30 — that’s quite the deal when one considers you’re getting a pair of no-show socks for almost every day of the work week. Again, style upgrades are in the details, and when you can snag no-show socks that perform admirably and look great, I say jump right on it. And hey, you can pick up a classic tie or pocket square while perusing the Ties.com site, too. See how to style no-show socks with other essentials on the daily at my Instagram, or ask away on any and all things #menswear over at The Style Guide.

Do you own any Sock Genius socks? Would you add the brand to your rotation, or is your sock drawer full?

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Mack Weldon Vesper Polo

Editor’s note: Expect these posts weekly detailing one standout item coveted by yours truly. Sometimes, these fit within budgetary restrictions and other times, they’re expensive splurges worth saving for. For more Wish List items from Beau, head here, and to see other Style Picks, head here.

Easygoing, effortless and still sharp -- that's the Mack Weldon Vesper Polo for you. Photo courtesy of Mack Weldon.

Easygoing, effortless and still sharp — that’s the Mack Weldon Vesper Polo for you. Photo courtesy of Mack Weldon.

So, you sidle up to the bar on a Saturday night — maybe on a first date. What are you wearing? A polo inspired by the crisp, clean, effortlessly cool style of 007, that’s what. My friends, we’re talking today about the Mack Weldon Vesper Polo, a heck of a polo that puts together the favorite style principles of 007 in one shirt. It doesn’t hurt that it’s named for the original (and perhaps best-known) drink downed by everyone’s favorite secret agent. The Vesper Polo nails everything you should look for in a stylish polo for summer — it’s got a clean, modern fit, for starters. And the lightweight micro-mesh knit fabric is exactly what you need to keep you cool and dry in the heat of July (we’ll have an #OOTD styling this exact polo next week, in fact). After checking one out myself during a hot and busy #NYFWM, I’ve got to vouch for that. Plus, this polo is everything great style should be — it’s understated, it’s refined, it’s easily wearable, and the price ain’t half-bad either ($68, for the unitiated). It’s part of Mack Weldon’s effort to expand on basics that work for every guy’s wardrobe — if you’ve shopped the brand or participated in our most recent reader giveaway with these guys, you know that all too well. Add this polo to your other favorites of theirs — like an easily wearable Pima Crew Tee — and you’ll be on your way to building a sharp wardrobe any day of the week.

While the Kentucky Blue option looks great, Bond might go for the Total Eclipse Blue polo. Photo courtesy of Mack Weldon.

While the Kentucky Blue option looks great, Bond might go for the Total Eclipse Blue polo. Photo courtesy of Mack Weldon.

Join Frank & Oak Elevate - Enjoy FREE Shipping, Cashback + more at Frank + Oak! Try it now for 90 days, risk free!
Yet, the great thing about the Vesper Polo is that it’s a great place to start no matter your style level. Seriously, every guy can use reminders about things like proper fit, and this polo makes it easy. It’s wearable with slim shorts or tan chinos, and it doesn’t look out of place when worn in an even more laidback fashion — like atop your favorite swim trunks as you head to the beach or pool. And the self-collar doesn’t flop around like other polo collars — it’ll stay upright through the day (even moreso if you use collar stays), so you can rock it beneath a slim-fit khaki blazer to the office. The trickiest part about the whole endeavor might be picking a favorite color — the Kentucky Blue option seen here is reliable and crisp, yet that Total Eclipse Blue (a dark navy, really) is the same color favored by Bond in Casino Royale (although that option is a bit pricier). So you certainly can’t go wrong with a well-priced, well-performing, effortlessly stylish polo ready for the rest of summer (and even able to be rocked into early fall when layered under a shawl cardigan, for example. The toughest part is going to be putting it away when the weather turns cold — yet if you live in a warm climate, you’ll have the gift that keeps on giving year-round. Keep it handy for that next date in the meantime, yeah?

Have you picked up the Mack Weldon Vesper Polo yet? What’s your favorite style combination when it comes to polos?

by Beau H.

Summer style: Attending a Michigan wedding

Editor’s note: Click here for more tips  how to dress for a summer wedding.

Dressed in style for a summer wedding. Blue shirt by Twillory. Cotton tie by Ties.com Thompson Navy suit by J. Crew Factory. Glasses by Warby Parker. Heritage Tassel Loafers by Sebago. Brown leather watch by MVMT Watches.

Dressed in style for a summer wedding. Blue shirt by Twillory. Cotton tie and navy tipped pocket square by Ties.com Thompson Navy suit by J. Crew Factory. Glasses by Warby Parker. Heritage Tassel Loafers by Sebago. Brown leather watch by MVMT Watches.

It’s a topic that’s come up before here on The Style Guide — that would be, dressing for a summer wedding — but this past weekend presented the perfect opportunity for yours truly to put some of those ideas into practice.  Following a whirlwind, busy New York Fashion Week: Men’s (an exhausting but super-fun week), I hit the road back to Michigan to attend the wedding of my great friend Matt Sheehan, a former State News colleague and another proud & sports-obsessed Spartan (watching games was either very fun — or not so fun, depending on how MSU fared). In fact, Matt & I took in a particularly momentous MSU football game last fall, and caught up during my spring trip to Florida. That being said, it was still great to make the trip back. It was a truly lovely wedding, and so great to reconnect with amazing friends back home in the process. With fashion week done, it was also awesome to get away from the bustle of NYC for a  bit, and even better to do so during a beautiful Michigan summer — as always, even with a humble weekender bag in tow, I tried my best to pack the best #menswear gear I could round up.

A full bag ready to hit the road. Voyager Waxed Weekender by Owen & Fred. Beachcomber Chambray Shirt by Bourbon & Blue. Staple Denim made in Italy by Mott & Bow. Brown Scout Chukka Boots by Thursday Boots. Striped socks by American Trench. Waterbury Chrono from the Timex x Red Wing collab. Adventure Log by Word Notebooks. Brown leather belt by J. Crew. Chapter Travel Kit by Herschel Supply Co. Moisturizer by Tread for Men. Maximus Sunglasses by Sunday Somewhere.

A full bag ready to hit the road. Voyager Waxed Weekender by Owen & Fred. Beachcomber Chambray Shirt by Bourbon & Blue. Staple Denim made in Italy by Mott & Bow. Brown Scout Chukka Boots by Thursday Boots. Striped socks by American Trench. Waterbury Chrono from the Timex x Red Wing collab. Adventure Log by Word Notebooks. Brown leather belt by J. Crew. Chapter Travel Kit by Herschel Supply Co. Moisturizer by Tread for Men. Maximus Sunglasses by Sunday Somewhere.

That started with some essential everyday carry accessories that have quickly become personal travel favorites — such as my tough, sturdy Owen & Fred Voyager Waxed Weekender Bag. It’s accompanied me on nearly every trip I’ve taken as of late, and with dependable Wickett & Craig leather handles, quality hardware and a surprising amount of room, it’s taken the toils of the road quite well. I packed some key everyday carry accessories, including my Word Notebooks Adventure Log and Herschel Supply Chapter Travel Kit; just as small details finish off an outfit, so too can they upgrade even the things you don’t quite think about when traveling. For the flight to Michigan, I pulled some double-duty, wearing a Bourbon & Blue short-sleeve chambray shirt and pairing it up with my J. Crew Factory Thompson suit jacket and some tailored Savane twill pants (look for more on those pants in a special Tuesday post).  For outfits throughout the weekend, my Thursday Boots Brown Scout Chukka Boots helped me travel in style — always a must! I finished off the look with one of two watches I brought along for the weekend — my personal favorite, the rugged and durable Timex x Red Wing Waterbury Chronograph.  If you can only fit in one or two watches as part of your packing list, it’s tough to go wrong with a really well-built watch that works for more casual or slightly more dressed-up ensembles. With any travel, stylish sunglasses are a must — for both tailored wear and my casual ensembles, I’ve found myself consistently reaching for the pricey but sharp Maximus sunglasses from Sunday Somewhere.

While I was excited to hit the road, I ran into some unfortunate travel delays leaving New York that left me stuck at the airport all day — so unfortunately, I missed out on a classic Michigan backyard barbeque. Luckily, I still made it back in time for a nice Saturday and the wedding itself! It goes without saying that I had an incredible time, and was very glad to have made the trip back (CONGRATS, MATT AND SAM!). Of course, I was glad I brought along a trusty suit, as well. Packing the appropriate gear to get you through a warm-weather wedding is a bit tricky. While it might seem at first too hot to rock anything but a lightweight linen suit, if you have to grab one suit for all four seasons, worsted wool in a neutral color like navy is a very solid option. It’s a more breathable and classic fabric, and in a slim, tailored (and affordable) cut like the J. Crew Factory Thompson Suit, it’ll work well with a crisp dress shirt, and with or without a tie even if you don’t have a wedding to attend. In fact, my shirt was a favorite of the outfit in terms of fit and construction — it’s on-sale now, so I’d definitely recommend you pick up the nicely tailored Twillory Non-Iron Blue Twill Shirt which paired up well with the navy suit. The accompanying J. Crew Factory suit pants went along just fine with the jacket, as they feature a nicely tailored fit that isn’t quite as slim as the J. Crew Ludlow, so that works nicely for most body types — having the belt loops removed, as I did, makes for a super-clean and crisp look, too.

This past weekend's wedding outfit laid out and ready to go. Navy Thompson suit by J. Crew Factory. Blue shirt by Twillory. Cotton tie and tipped pocket square by Ties.com. Brown leather watch by MVMT Watches. Heritage Tassel Loafers by Sebago. Wallet from the latest SprezzaBox.

This past weekend’s wedding outfit laid out and ready to go. Navy Thompson suit by J. Crew Factory. Blue shirt by Twillory. Cotton tie and tipped pocket square by Ties.com. Brown leather watch by MVMT Watches. Heritage Tassel Loafers by Sebago. Wallet from the latest SprezzaBox.

And stylish accessories are a must to finish off any suit. In this instance, a cotton tie in a unique, summer-friendly color and a navy tipped pocket square courtesy of the team at Ties.com paired well with one of my favorite suits (Editor’s note: I own approximately one all-season, every-occasion suit — and it’s this one). Seriously, as a competitor and an alternative to The Tie Bar, the selection and pricing at Ties.com is quite on-point (and y’all know that if it wasn’t, they wouldn’t have made the cut — right?). For the warm weather, I slid into a refined pair of Sebago Heritage Tassel Loafers, featuring an oily waxed leather (as the site implies) that’s shown age and wear marks beautifully after only a few weeks of wear (check out another way to style them here). Of course, if you don’t have room in your bag for another pair of shoes (and I barely did), I’d recommend reaching for perhaps the above brown chukka boots to pull double-duty. And although my Timex x Red Wing Waterbury Chrono worked suitably well for casual situations, I was too tempted not to reach for one of my favorite everyday watches, the MVMT 40 in Blue/Brown Leather — it’s a watch that’s really a great value for the quality and wearability (although one of my New Year’s style resolutions was to wear less blue, I can’t seem to stop wearing it). Pieces that can work with everything from a tee and shorts to a suit are the best sort of travel style essentials to pack when space is limited.

Sunday's outfit grid for a day of travel back from Michigan. The Jack in Indigo Star Shirt by Taylor Stitch. Slim grey selvedge denim by Billy Reid. White Legend Sneakers by SeaVees. Waterbury Chrono from the Timex x Red Wing Heritage collab. Adventure Log by Word Notebooks. Vintage ballcap by Goorin Brothers.

Sunday’s outfit grid for a day of travel back from Michigan. The Jack in Indigo Star Shirt by Taylor Stitch. Slim grey selvedge denim by Billy Reid. White Legend Sneakers by SeaVees. Waterbury Chrono from the Timex x Red Wing Heritage collab. Adventure Log by Word Notebooks. Vintage ballcap by Goorin Brothers.

With an incredible wedding and an incredible evening in metro Detroit in the books, it was time to catch a flight back to Michigan that felt a bit earlier than I’d have preferred after a full week of fashion shows and travel. Reaching for grab-and-go pieces that work in a pinch is still a must even if you’re jet-lagged, so my Taylor Stitch Jack in Indigo Star Shirt (very low in stock at the moment, unfortunately) worked out very well — I’d recommend you bring along a solid blue chambray shirt for similarly versatile style.  Although it was hot, a pair of Billy Reid grey selvedge denim did just fine when paired with one of my favorite pairs of sneakers, the SeaVees Legend Sneaker — when in doubt, classic white sneakers are just the way to go. As was the case the rest of the weekend, my stylish Timex x Red Wing Waterbury Chrono worked sufficiently as I hauled my gear to the airport (and it helped me catch my flight on time!).

While it’s always nice to be able to bring along my favorite style essentials when I travel, it’s even better to know that at the end of the road on trips home, there are great friends and great times waiting — truly, it’s something for which I’m very thankful, and it’s got me eagerly awaiting my next trip to Michigan. No matter what’s in my bag, I know I’ll always look forward to going back.

If you have questions on what to pack for your own travels, tweet at me or catch up via The Style Guide’s Facebook page.

‘Til the next trip,

-Beau

Join Frank & Oak Elevate - Enjoy FREE Shipping, Cashback + more at Frank + Oak! Try it now for 90 days, risk free!

by Beau H.

Style Suggestion: How to Dress for A Summer Wedding

Editor’s note: For a range of style suggestions covering everything up to and including Sunday brunch, click here.

Perhaps you walked out to your mailbox one day and found it waiting for you. Or, it popped up on your fridge in the winter, and you forgot about it. Or it was buried under a pile of paperwork until now. What might that be? The summer wedding invitation, of course. Always fun, always an adventure — and always a concern as to what to wear. Lest you scramble to find an outfit (or dash out to rent a suit that might be poor-fitting), rest assured that we’ve got you covered here today. Preparing to both travel in style while also bringing along a proper suit to deal with a (likely) hot climate is a tricky endeavor — and it might be here sooner than you think. While we’ll cover travel style upgrades in the coming weeks, perhaps the most pressing part of things is covering what you’ll wear on the day itself. If you’re in the wedding party, hopefully the groom took some wedding style tips seriously. If you’re just focused on the bachelor party… I wish you luck. The below scenario covers what to wear if you find yourself merely along for the ride in a hot environment. If you’re not ready yet, hopefully you’ll be in tip-top shape by the end of this post.

The Suit: Canvas by Lands’ End Chambray Suit Jacket — $289 AND Chambray Suit Pant — $99

The ideal summer suit from an unexpected brand.

The ideal summer suit from an unexpected brand.

If you haven’t heard the name Lands’ End in a while, or given the site that much thought, think again. The newly revamped Canvas by Lands’ End line plays off the more contemporary, style-forward look and feel of the old Lands’ End Canvas line, and in this case, that’s a very good thing. For just about $400, you’re getting a slim, modern chambray suit that should be lightweight, breathable and ready for warm weather. The color is a nice alternative to a standard navy (although that would also work), and you can choose either hemmed or unhemmed pants in a range of sizes. When layered right, the jacket could even work into early fall with paired with a slim crewneck sweater.

The Shirt: Lawrence Hunt Standard Dress Shirt in White — $65

This is no ordinary dress shirt -- performance fabric is built-in under the arms.

This is no ordinary dress shirt — performance fabric is built-in under the arms.

Lawrence Hunt is another brand that sometimes inspires some questions when the name comes up. Whereas other brands stick to traditional dress shirts crafted from heavier fabrics, Lawrence Hunt takes everything you thought you knew about dress shirts and upends it.  That’s right — the brand’s Standard Dress Shirt in White blends 100 percent cotton with moisture-wicking, anti-bacterial, 4-way stretch fabric; in fact, it’s even designed based on athletic performance wear. So this is one dress shirt that can truly keep you cool no matter how hot it gets. It also comes with button or cufflink options depending on how dressy you want to go.

The Tie:  The Tie Bar Navy Knit Tie — $25

 

The always-reliable, never-unstylish navy knit tie -- worth the price now and down the line.

The always-reliable, never-unstylish navy knit tie — worth the price now and down the line.

The classic navy knit tie comes into play time and again in outfits across the style spectrum (and particularly this site) with good reason. It’s nearly the perfect four-season tie, what with subtle texture that stands up to a thicker wool blazer in the winter and adds some visual contrast and weight to a textured chambray suit. That’s the goal here, as it’ll stand out subtly against the crisp white dress shirt while also offering a change of pace in terms of color. At $25, it’s pricier than past Tie Bar pick-ups, but all the more worth it if you can get use of it across four seasons.

The Pocket Square: J. Crew Factory Linen Dot Pocket Square — $14.50

Just as reliable as the navy knit tie, and perfect for summer in terms of pattern and texture.

Just as reliable as the navy knit tie, and perfect for summer in terms of pattern and texture.

Just as with the classic navy knit tie, a pindot pocket square like this one  is fail-safe in regards to summer style. The linen fabric falls in line with warmer temperatures, the pindot pattern stands out nicely against the texture of the tie and the suit, and it helps break up your chest visually without being too overpowering. At just under $15, it’s a solid deal for a brand that’s gotten a heck of a lot like J. Crew, its stylish older brethren. This pocket square can even be switched into a khaki blazer when you’re back at work following that wedding.

The Shoes: M.Gemi The Strada Derby in Sand Suede — $248

A terrific visual complement to a chambray suit this summer.

A terrific visual complement to a chambray suit this summer.

Have you heard of M.Gemi? They’ve gained some notable traction in the past few months with the introduction of its men’s line (a feature on Esquire.com will help with that), and they’re continuing to pick up steam. The Strada Derby is just among a set of offerings — including dress shoes and sneakers — being done by the brand, but the Strada perhaps fits best for a summer wedding in a hotter climate. The Derby-style open lacing and the sand suede are both casual yet crisp (for something dressier, you could grab the Tappo Brogue). Sizes can be limited and the price is an investment, yet you’re getting a really versatile shoe that can pull double duty even when traveling to said wedding.

The Socks: Mack Weldon Total Eclipse Stripe Socks — $12.50

A win-win -- stylish socks that are breathable and comfortable.

A win-win — stylish socks that are breathable and comfortable.

While some are partial to rocking no-show socks with a suit (particularly for an outdoor wedding), rocking longer socks might be in the cards for some of us. And if you’re going to be pulling on extra fabric around your ankles, best make it fabric that’s breathable, moisture-wicking and comfortable — that’s where the Total Eclipse Stripe Sock comes into play. The navy stripes play nicely off the tie and the blue chambray, too.

The Belt and Watch: J. Crew Leather Dress Belt — $68 AND Timex Weekender Fairfield Watch — $75

Simple, stylish essentials that mesh with the other colors in this ensemble.

Simple, stylish essentials that mesh with the other colors in this ensemble.

So, we’re going with a belt that’s nearly as expensive as the watch itself? In this case, yes. If, like your author, you find yourself wearing brown shoes frequently, investing in a slim, classic leather belt like this J. Crew option is in the cards. Because those shoes are suede, matching up directly with the belt leather isn’t needed. And because the Timex Weekender Fairfield Watch is in the same color family (generally) as the belt and shoes, it works out. Plus, at a casual outdoor wedding, things are more, well… casual.

The Sunglasses: Warby Parker Batten Sunglasses in Jet Silver — $145

A reliably stylish frame shape and a cool color to pair up with the other shades of blue in the outfit.

A reliably stylish frame shape and a cool color to pair up with the other shades of blue in the outfit.

It wouldn’t truly be a late spring or early summer wedding if we didn’t suggest a pair of sunglasses to combat the intensity of the sun. Warby Parker was among the first innovators in going direct to consumers digitally, and their designs are (for the most part), clean, classic and stylish. The Batten Sunglasses are no different, and the cool  blue shades strike more than a passing resemblance to a certain secret agent’s sunglass of choice.

While the above outfit might at first glance look to have a lot of moving parts (everything from sunglasses to a pocket square to a watch to a tie are up for consideration), it’s all about making refined pieces work for your environment. A crisp white shirt and navy knit tie works across all four seasons, but the upgraded shirting fabric should definitely keep you cool. Reaching for a chambray suit from a brand on the rise also helps maximize budget and style concerns in equal measure. And those suede shoes? Well, if looks are any consideration, they could very well become a go-to pair the rest of the summer. Shop on, and let me know of any pieces you’d consider swapping out!

How are you dressing for any summer weddings you’ve got coming up? Would you switch out any pieces above?

Shop the latest in Men's styles Under $50 + get FREE Shipping on orders over $100 at Frank & Oak!