The Friday Read: A New Holiday Jacket, Florsheim’s Latest Launch & Gifts for the Whiskey Lover

The perfect winter jacket for the holidays and beyond.

OK, who’s ready for another winter Friday? The last winter Friday before Christmas, at that! Still wondering what gifts to buy for the stylish guy on your list? I’ve got you covered. And today’s Friday Read is going to take care of business quite nicely, too — you’ll find out about a new Taylor Stitch jacket, gifts for the whiskey lover, and plenty more. Of course, we’d be remiss not to mention one of the best winter jackets as shown above, a durable and weather-ready Faherty Brand puffer jacket (the Polar Fjord Puffer, to be exact), that’s worth investing in as you dress for the polar vortex (or wherever your holiday takes you). I won’t exactly be needing a rugged winter parka, however — this weekend, I’m hitting the road to sunny Florida yet again for a relaxing week of Christmas vacation! I was just in Florida for a lovely and relaxing Thanksgiving (as seen on my Instagram), and I’m very excited to get back! It’s always a wonderful time in Fort Myers, from trying out new and old breweries (Point Ybel Brewing is a perennial favorite) to taking in fun holiday activities like checking out the illustrious grounds of the Edison Ford Winter Estates, done up with excellent holiday decor. For now though, I’ve got my holiday party to enjoy at my day job, and a bit of a search for last-minute holiday gifts to undertake this weekend. Get your own weekend started the right way with another edition of the Friday Read — cheers to the season!

  • As we said above, ’tis the season to layer up in style with one of the best new men’s jackets for your closet — in this case, we’re talking about a handsome bomber jacket from Taylor Stitch, as covered by yours truly at GearMoose. It’s both elegant and rugged at the same time — it’s the perfect holiday layer, in short. Heck, it could even be a reliable suggestion if you’re still searching for what to wear to your holiday party.
  • So, we mentioned Faherty Brand up above — and there’s reason to turn back toward this highly stylish brand again, seeing as Faherty is offering expedited shipping and guaranteed delivery by the 24th on orders placed by Saturday. Hop to it, folks!
  • Just when you thought the good folks at Florsheim couldn’t churn out men’s shoes that were any more essential or stylish, they drop the Florsheim Fuel Reflect Capsule, a new, ultra-shiny and sleek set of dress shoes with some futuristic iridescent design touches. Perfect for, again, that last-minute holiday party. I covered it for The Manual, so check it out if you’re in need of some stylish dress shoes.
  • Now, we’ll turn back to GearMoose for another crucial holiday gift suggestion. I didn’t pen this particular piece, but that doesn’t mean I’m any less enthralled by this roundup of the best gifts for whiskey lovers — perfect to gift to the guy who loves a great Old Fashioned.
  • Lastly, it’s been a momentous year for music – favorite albums of mine included two ethereal releases from Brooklyn indie rockers Big Thief (that’d be both “Two Hands” and “U.F.O.F.”), as well as the excellent “Remind Me Tomorrow” by the lovely Sharon Van Etten. Of course, it goes without saying that “I Am Easy To Find” by The National is an all-time favorite, too. That being said, it’s always fun to read about the best albums of 2019 from a different perspective — in this case, Stereogum has put together a list of the top 50 albums of 2019, and it’s certainly worth your time.

So, maybe you’re still searching for the perfect last-minute gift, as we talked about above — with all that being said, maybe you know someone who’d love to have, say, the best pair of men’s jeans waiting for them under the tree? That’s where the Mott and Bow Slim Stone Denim comes into play, some of the most stylish jeans you can buy (and some of the more affordable premium jeans on the market, at that). Alright, enjoy and let’s get onto the weekend!

The List: Bundle Up for Fall and Winter with My Favorite New Men’s Gear Picks

This tough shirt jacket is the lead-off pick in today’s rundown of the best men’s gear for Novmeber.

If there’s one essential you need on your shopping list right now, it might just be a rugged shirt jacket. OK,well, to be clear … there’s likely more than one item you’re going to want to add to your rundown of the best fall style essentials, and that’s where today’s edition of The List enters the picture. With Thanksgiving looming and chilly weather continuing to roll in, these are the right gear picks to bundle up with, hit the road with, or wear to get to work. Have any recommendations of your own to make? Let me know on Twitter!

Flint and Tinder Quilted Waxed Shirt Jacket — $248

A tough shirt jacket with the right chops for fall layering.

Lined in cotton flannel, this rugged shirt jacket from the American-made style purveyors at Flint and Tinder is not to be trifled with. It’s the kind of classic shirt jacket you can throw on and forget about, given that it’s made from weather-resistant waxed canvas to take you through tough fall adventures and nasty weather. Easily one of the best men’s shirt jackets, this is true.

Helm Boots Hollis Boots — $350

The best boots for the office and the weekend in equal measure.

It’s the perfect time of year to break out some rugged leather boots, and for the ideal mix of refinement and style, you can’t go wrong with Austin-based Helm Boots and the exclusive-to-Huckberry Helm Boots Hollis Boots. The captoe and rich leather give these a dressier feel — wear them with tan herringbone trousers and a classic Oxford shirt to the office. Speaking of …

Taylor Stitch Jack Shirt in White Everyday Oxford — $98

One of the best Oxford shirts you’re going to find, and that’s a fact.

There’s truly never a bad time to recommend or wear a classic Oxford shirt from Taylor Stitch, especially as we roll into winter. This timeless white Oxford shirt is one you should wear with everything from a classic navy blazer and tan chinos to perfectly faded denim and durable leather chukka boots.

Flint and Tinder 365 Corduroy Pants — $98

Classic corduroy pants that won’t miss a beat when it comes to essential fall style.

An ongoing favorite here on the blog, the Flint and Tinder 365 Corduroy Pants are corduroys as you’ve never seen them, done up in a trim fit with rich fabric and top-notch quality. These are simply some of the best corduroy pants to wear to the office or out on a date, preferably paired with your classic Oxford shirt from Taylor Stitch.

Hill City Merino Cashmere Beanie — $48

The right way to keep warm and add some serious style points to your fall and winter ensembles.

This won’t be the last time we’ll talk about Hill City today on the blog, mark my words. The brand (an offshoot of GAP) focuses on stylish, performance-inspired menswear in sleek silhouettes, tested in San Francisco and worn the world over. This merino cashmere beanie is soft, comfortable & utterly critical for fall and winter — the pop of color doesn’t hurt, either.

Tuft & Needle California King Mattress — $750

A truly excellent mattress for a great night’s sleep.

Granted, it’s not every single day that you expect to see a Tuft & Needle mattress on a list of the best new men’s gear, but this just might be one of the best mattresses you can invest in now (and then reap the rewards later, of course).

Tincup American Whiskey — Starting at $25

A bold, rich whiskey that’ll warm you on chilly fall and winter nights.

In addition to stylish accessories, the right spirits can go a long way toward amping up your enjoyment of fall and winter evenings — and Tincup American Whiskey, with its bold flavor and modern approach to heritage whiskey, is the right way to go. Affordably priced for some of the best and most unique whiskey on the planet, Tincup takes its name from an old-school mining town (and the way in which miners would enjoy their whiskey). Using distilled Colorado water also gives this a remarkable flavor — it’s a new fall and winter favorite.

Hanwag Stulben II Boots — $306

Richly crafted leather hiking boots that won’t quit, no matter what.

Among underappreciated brands quietly making some of the best men’s hiking boots on the market, Hanwag might take the cake. These rugged leather hiking boots are dependable enough for the trail with your favorite chore pants, and stylish enough to grab a pint afterward.

Taylor Stitch Long Haul Jacket (Huckberry Exclusive) — $188

An eyecatching update to a classic Taylor Stitch silhouette.

Yes, we’re back with another recommendation from Taylor Stitch,and more specifically, a new take on the coveted Taylor Stitch Long Haul Jacket. It won’t be the last time you see it this season, that’s for sure. Done up in a rich color and custom fabric exclusive to Huckberry, this is the perfect fall and winter trucker jacket — wear it with a white henley and inky blue indigo denim, plus some new leather hiking boots.

Patagonia Black Hole Duffel — $139

A technical bag that’s streamlined enough to go off-road and beyond.

When you need a performance-minded duffel bag and don’t want to think about it too much, the Patagonia Black Hole Duffel is the everyday carry essential you need.

Armor-Lux Heritage Henley — $109

A truly excellent henley for fall and winter layering.

When you’re getting ready to go off-road with, say, the Patagonia Black Hole Duffel, make it worth your while — and stay warm in the process, with one of the toughest henleys your money can buy. That, my friends, would be the Armor-Lux Heritage Henley.

Hill City Thermal Light Shirt Jacket — $158

Another shirt jacket for easygoing layering potential.

Founded by former MLS player Noah Palmer and featuring a focus on mobile, comfortable, versatile gear for the modern man on the go, Hill City is an excellent new menswear brand worth your time if you want performance-ready menswear (like the Thermal Light Shirt Jacket) that’s not too fussy and doesn’t break the bank.

Marathon MSAR Watch — $795

A watch that’ll stay on time and keep you looking stylish all the while.

Speaking of a shirt jacket for the guy on the go, what about a rugged dive watch for the guy who never stops? Enter the dependable, tough Marathon MSAR Watch, uniquely suited to stand up to fall tailgates and winter snow in equal measure.

Truman Boots Service Boots — $420 

Tough leather boots that work as hard as you do.

We’ve sure covered a lot of ground today on the blog when it comes to the best men’s leather boots, but these Truman Boot Co. Service Boots are more than worthy of inclusion. Incredibly rugged and richly crafted, you can wear these all winter, day after day.

Billykirk x Cooper & Thief Bartender Bag — $250

The right way to haul your favorite red wine and cocktail essentials.

Here just in time for holiday travel and holiday spirits, meet a remarkable and essential addition to your home bar (and your traveling bar, too). The Billykirk x Cooper & Thief Bartender Bag blends the expertise and craftsmanship for which Billykirk is known with the high-quality approach to winemaking (aged in former bourbon barrels!) that separates Cooper & Thief from the pack. Taken together, this beautiful bartender bag is the right way to haul your favorite spirits and cocktail accessories to your next holiday party. Better still? It’s handcrafted and hand-numbered, and filled with some of the best cocktail tools around, and still leaves you with space for a bottle of Cooper & Thief wine. Cheers!

Barbour Flannel Shirt — $159

Wear this stylish flannel with your Barbour jacket — go for it!

So, last but not least … you know what goes well with your Billykirk x Cooper & Thief Bartender Bag? A rugged flannel shirt from a heritage brand — and specifically, this impeccable Barbour Flannel Shirt. Wear it with your favorite jeans.

 

OK now … did you find anything to add to your shopping cart or your wish list? Perhaps it’s the nicely updated Flint and Tinder 365 Corduroy Pants that are next up for you to purchase? Or maybe the Barbour Flannel Shirt is the way to go? Oh, and let’s not forget about the Helm Boots Hollis Boots and other dependable gear picks like the Taylor Stitch Long Haul Jacket — how about it? Who can’t wait to get out there this fall? That makes two of us. Cheers!

Style Pick of the Week: Taylor Stitch Moto Boots in Weatherproof Suede

Impressively rugged, functional and stylish Taylor Stitch moto boots.

If you thought your closet was positively too full of gear from Taylor Stitch … well, think again. And if at the same time you’ve been looking for the perfect pair of fall boots, you’re in luck. The Taylor Stitch Moto Boots are here to save your day — and your fall and winter wardrobe — from certain peril in snowy and slushy weather. Now, you’ve read about these stylish moto boots in my guide to wearing black jeans, and they’re back again for good reason today. The Taylor Stitch Moto Boots carry on an impressive lineage of top-notch performance and effortless style from everyone’s favorite San Fran-based brand, and that’s all the more reason to snag your pair now. That is to say, everything that you love about Taylor Stitch‘s chambray shirts, handsome sweaters & rugged outerwear gets distilled into one of the best pairs of men’s boots for fall and winter. What makes the Taylor Stitch Moto Boots so essential, even in spite of a slightly higher price tag ($348, for those curious)? The difference, as ever, remains in the details — from the rich 4oz. snuff suede to the impressive Goodyear welt construction., made to be resoled when you need it the  most. And of course, these are highly unique in that they just so happen to be a truly weatherproof pair of suede boots, something not many other brands can say. Does that make ’em some of the best men’s boots? Yes, indeed it does — but there’s a whole lot more where that came from.

SHOP: The Taylor Stitch Moto Boots

A tough sole and stellar design details put these Taylor Stitch boots a cut above the rest.

Notably, these rugged suede boots can stand up to plenty of wear in nasty weather thanks to that durable weatherproof suede and Goodyear construction — they’re complemented by a tough Vibram outsole, to boot (pun very much intended). Make no mistake, these aren’t a pair of boots to be messed with, and that goes for whether you wear them with your favorite black jeans and a henley, or team them with slim navy trousers and a classic Oxford shirt after a snowy work day commute. Throw in waxed cotton laces for a bit of tailored appeal, then add in the fact that antique brass hardware finishes off the Taylor Stitch Moto Boots, and you’ve got a truly unbeatable pair of the best fall and winter boots — that’s not just talk. Perhaps the best part about these? They’ll work with the rest of your well-stocked Taylor Stitch wardrobe … so, what more can you ask for? Not a whole lot.

SHOP: The Taylor Stitch Moto Boots

See Now, Buy Now: This New Taylor Stitch Shirt is Your Favorite Fall Shirt — Guaranteed

A newly iconic shirt in a perfect fall texture.

If you pass through the digital pages of The Style Guide with any regularity, you’ll know we love the work being done by the San Francisco-based team at Taylor Stitch. It nearly goes without saying, but they produce some of the best men’s gear (and the best men’s shirts!) your money can buy. And on that note, well, that’s where the Taylor Stitch Jack Shirt comes into play. Specifically, the Jack Shirt in Heather Ash Waffle — it’s richly crafted, it’s endlessly versatile, and as the headline says above, it’s your new favorite shirt, guaranteed. As per usual, that would, at first glance, seem to be overly high praise … but again, Taylor Stitch can back it up.
The Best Basics. Summer Ready.

Where does it all start when it comes to one of the best men’s shirts for fall? It starts, naturally, with the rich and rugged fabric. For those days when you want to add some variety to your everyday #OOTD, the Taylor Stitch Jack Shirt in Heather Ash Waffle is just what the doctor ordered. Made from 100 percent organic cotton in a  pleasing-but-not-too-heavy 6.5oz. weight, it’s got the perfect texture to wear on its own or layer up over a rugged henley — that’s fall style at its best, if you ask me.

SHOP: The Taylor Stitch Jack Shirt in Heather Ash Waffle

The stylish shirt to wear all fall.

The fit of the Taylor Stitch Jack Shirt is also perfectly on-point, trim and tailored but not too tight in the slightest (I go with a size 40 for reference — see how I style it on Instagram). And when it comes to seasonal versatility, this new take on the Taylor Stitch Jack Shirt has that in spades. Case in point: You  can wear this classic fall shirt with slim dark denim or olive chinos on its own through the weekend, or layer it up with a classic navy blazer and tan five-pocket pants to head to the office. It adds just enough variety and visual interest compared to more straightforward shirts, and in my book, that makes it a winner — big-time. Shake up your fall style ASAP with what could just be your new favorite shirt.

SHOP: The Taylor Stitch Jack Shirt in Heather Ash Waffle

The Friday Read: A Florida Vacation, the Best Lightweight Jackets and A New Pumpkin Ale

The perfect bag for a weekend getaway — like the one I’m about to enjoy, in fact.

We’ll kick off today’s Friday Read by talking about one of the best duffel bags for fall travel; that’d be the WP Standard Canvas Travel Tote. Why is that so important on this fine fall Friday? Well, I’m packing up one of my favorite weekender bags as we speak — to hit the road to sunny Florida! I was originally supposed to take this trip across Labor Day weekend (as seen in this post here), but the potential for Hurricane Dorian thwarted those plans. So now, it’s time for a do-over, as it were! On tap this weekend? Quite literally, visits to a Fort Myers favorite (Point Ybel Brewing), plus the recently opened Coastal Dayz Brewery, to go along with some beach time, some BBQ (my dad’s famous homemade ribs!) and plenty of relaxation. As per usual, you can follow along on my Instagram! It’s my first time in Florida this year, wildly enough, and I always relish the chance to visit family and take in the beautiful weather. I’ll also be looking forward to getting some final wear out of my favorite gear for summer, seeing as we’re on the verge of *gasp* October. If you happen to be hitting the road for fall, again, get a load of the WP Standard Canvas Travel Tote, one of the best weekender bags you can buy right now. And in the meantime? The below Friday Read should help you start the weekend off quite nicely.

  • Let’s stick with GearMoose for a second, shall we? And again, although my mind isn’t exactly on the best pumpkin beer for the season as I head to Florida, it’s tough to pass up the Montauk Pumpkin Ale, is it not? It’s the ideal beer to enjoy on a crisp fall afternoon (preferably at a tailgate).
  • Is there anything better than realizing the time is finally right to wear your favorite fall jacket? As in, one of the best waxed jackets on the market? From Filson to Taylor Stitch, I rounded up some of my favorites for The Manual. Enjoy the season, my friends!

We’ll keep it fairly brief for today’s Friday Read — but not before I direct you back toward my guide on how to wear black jeans this season. Class ’em up casually with a chambray shirt (in addition to the picks in this #OOTD) or keep it rugged and versatile with your favorite leather boots. Again, stylish black jeans are your secret fall style weapon. OK, that’s all as we close out this last September weekend. Cheers!

The List: These Are All the Crucial Men’s Gear Picks You Need for Fall — ASAP

A rugged Western shirt you simply won’t be able to stop wearing this fall.

So, feeling ready for fall yet? Did it sneak up on you? We’re here to help you get prepped today with the best new men’s fall gear, starting first and foremost with the rugged Western shirt from Outerknown x Levi’s as featured above. It’s become one of my favorite shirts to wear and test as of late, and it’s part of Outerknown’s ongoing efforts to deliver sustainable, stylish gear — gear made the right way, at that. You’ll find plenty of like-minded brands and options in today’s edition of The List. No more time to waste: Fall is upon us. Cheers!

Outerknown x Levi’s Wellthread Western Shirt — $128

The classic Western shirt gets a sustainable upgrade.

The Outerknown x Levi’s Collection continues to pay serious dividends for lovers of sustainable, rugged, classic style. Take this handsome Western shirt, the perfect shirt to take you into fall — casual enough to be worn on its own, versatile enough to layer up over your new favorite henley, and even a unique shirting option to be worn with a worsted wool suit, sans tie (seriously, try it on for size).

Martenero Ace Watch — $370.98

A top-notch accessory to throw on your wrist this fall.

Make no bones about it, we’ve featured this rugged leather watch from Martenero on the blog in the past, but it’s making a triumphant return today. With the rich brown leather strap and striking dial design, it could be the best watch to wear for fall.

Rhodes Felix Chukka Boots in Oak Suede — $198

Sleek-yet-casual suede chukka boots in a perfect shade for fall.

You’re going to be reading a heck of a lot about the best men’s chukka boots as shown above — the Rhodes Felix Chukka Boots, as sold by Huckberry, are richly crafted, endlessly versatile, and done up in a rich shade of suede for the fall season.

Taylor Stitch Jack Shirt in Heather Ash Waffle — $125

The perfect fall shirt? Very nearly. Find out for yourself.

Let’s keep talking about stylish fall shirting, shall we? The Taylor Stitch Jack Shirt is the stuff of legend when it comes to the perfect fit and in this case, fabric. The texture in the Heather Ash Waffle Jack Shirt is simply ideal for the season. Wear it with slim dark denim and the Rhodes Felix Chukka Boots.

Flint and Tinder Mill Jacket — $147.98

The tough fall jacket to wear on chilly weekend nights.

You very well might recognize the Flint and Tinder Mill Jacket from this very site (in this Style Pick of the Week entry), or from my Instagram. Either way, it’s a rugged fall jacket that’s making a lauded return just in time for chilly weather. Don’t sleep on this one.

Outerknown S.E.A. Jeans in Drifter Tapered Fit — $148

A new pair of fall-centric denim to shake up your wardrobe.

Outerknown’s S.E.A. Jeans are yet another way to inject your fall wardrobe with some stylish sensibility and sustainability, made to reduce the amount of waste & water used in crafting a typical pair of fall denim. Oh, and the Fatigue color seen above would pair nicely with a rugged chambray shirt, no?

Faherty Brand Canyon Overshirt — $168

An overshirt with a unique pattern to really shake things up.

Can’t get enough of Faherty Brand? Neither can I — this classically cool brand makes retro-inspired men’s gear that’s just different enough to stand out. Take this rugged fall overshirt, which you should certainly wear over a natural henley on a fall weekend.

Whiskey Peaks American Mountains Glasses — $65 (Set of 4

Nothing better than a nice pour of your favorite whiskey after a long fall day, ehh?

What pairs better with a rugged fall overshirt than a rich glass of your favorite whiskey? Sipped out of some of the best whiskey glasses for your home bar, at that. A tremendous pairing.

Flint and Tinder Stonewashed Jeans — $128

The classic denim you’re going to want to match up with everything this fall.

Some of the best jeans for fall are often some of the more unassuming — take these slim stonewashed jeans, long a personal favorite from Flint and Tinder. Ideal to wear with your favorite crewneck sweater on a very cozy fall weekend.

Grifter Company Crockett Denim Gloves — $72.98

These durable leather gloves are made to take care of business this fall.

You might not need them right this second, but these functional leather gloves are rugged and road-ready.

Alex Mill NY Cord Baseball Cap — $40

The surprisingly fall-ready ballcap to throw on with any of these gear picks.

Looking for the right ballcap for fall? One that combines rugged texture with laidback style? Meet the Alex Mill NY Cord Baseball Cap.

Huckberry x Adler Custom Hatchet — $109

Bury the … hatchet? Handy to have around!

We told you we’d be all about the best fall gear picks today on the blog, didn’t we? And while you might not have match daily use for a rugged hatchet, it’s a handy accessory to keep around the campsite, the pole barn or your cabin.

Madewell Men’s Denim Chore Jacket — $145

Yet another enviable jacket to amp up your fall in style.

Fall is well and truly in the air right now — and on that note, this classic denim chore jacket from the excellent Madewell Men’s fall line is the perfect jacket to wear in place of  a blazer or as you head out to a leisurely seasonal brunch.

Mori Mori LED Lantern Speaker — $110 

For camping trips and tailgates, bring along this stylish LED speaker.

The next time you set up camp, host a bonfire or head to a tailgate, bring along this rugged, stylish LED speaker from Mori Mori — you’ve never seen anything like this.

Alex Mill NY Buffalo Plaid Chore Shirt — $115

We’re all about the layers today — and so is Alex Mill.

Are you sensing a theme here when it comes to rugged fall layers? The new fall collection from Alex Mill NY takes rugged style staples and shakes them up with some city-inspired sensibility —  you can wear this tough plaid chore shirt from the city out to an upstate day trip, no questions asked.

Vulcanizer Work Oxford Low — $92.98

The perfect pair of fall sneakers to finish off a cozy, casual ensemble.

It wouldn’t be a roundup of men’s fall style essentials if we didn’t include a pair of rugged leather sneakers from Vulcanizer, correct? These are the perfect leather sneakers to wear with any number of these gear picks, including the best jeans for fall.

 

Alright, so did anyone else have a tough time sorting through these stylish gear picks? What was your favorite? I personally can’t get enough of the Rhodes Felix Chukka Boots, as sold by Huckberry — maybe you feel the same way? Happy shopping out there!

The Friday Read: Danner’s New Boots, the Best Oktoberfest Beers and Taylor Stitch Outerwear

The perfect fall weekend boots from Danner? Very nearly!

My friends, we’ve reached the end of another work week (at least, I hope that’s the case for you). If you’re anything like me, you’ve got your shopping cart full of fall style essentials as we patiently await the finest hour in menswear. And speaking of stepping into a new season, the rugged, versatile Danner Vertigo 917 Boots as showcased above could just be the perfect new addition to your closet. Danner makes all of its footwear in the U.S.A. with prime attention to detail, making the above pair some of the best leather boots (period!) that you can snag for fall. Now that we’ve covered off on the best boots for the weekend, what say we dive into something like … Brooklyn’s best new coffee shop? I’ve had the pleasure recently of checking out Sweetwaters Coffee & Tea in Brooklyn’s idyllic Park Slope neighborhood (as you might have seen on my Instagram), and I’m certainly a new fan! If ever you get to the borough, I can’t recommend you visit this spot enough. It’s a welcome addition to the Brooklyn coffee scene, seeing as the company was founded in my home state of Michigan, and it’ll be a crucial weekend stop for me tomorrow, too. As for the rest of my weekend, I’ll be taking in some college football action by my Michigan State Spartans, and enjoying a cold fall beer at Threes Brewing. How about you? Feel free to check in with me in the comments below!

  • Fall is well and truly here — at least, it’ll officially be here next week on the calendar (and hopefully soon thereafter in terms of the weather). With that in mind, I put the best flannel shirts to the test for GearMoose, and believe you me, there are some stellar options when it comes to fall’s perfect shirt. Layer it up with your favorite henley and tough camp pants, then get out there & get to work.
  • Speaking of essential fall gear, I sure do hope you moved quickly to pre-fund the excellent Taylor Stitch Mechanic Jacket. Crafted from the brand’s famed Boss Duck fabric, it’s a hard-wearing jacket that should arrive just in time for fall — read my full scoop on the best new fall jacket over at GearMoose, naturally.
  • Let’s turn once again toward this here blog, and our ongoing #OOTD series. There’s still time for you to get plenty of wear out of your favorite denim jacket — you just need to layer it up accordingly, and that’s why I recently covered how to wear a denim jacket for fall. There’s no time to waste, my friends.
  • And because it wouldn’t be a fall weekend without a little craft beer action, I rounded up the best Oktoberfest beers to enjoy as we move into this prime, prime season for hops-inclined refreshment. Again, I point you toward GearMoose for that briefing — cheers to Friday!

So, for old’s time sake, let’s close out today’s Friday Read with one last helpful #menswear reminder before the weekend — I’ll point you back to The Style Guide, and my take on the best hooded sweatshirt for fall. It’s just that good … believe me. OK, that’s all I’ve got today, folks. Enjoy the weekend!

The Friday Read: The Taylor Stitch Yosemite Shirt, New Whiskey and the Best New Leather Watch

You’ll be the talk of the town if you pick up this shirt in advance of the weekend.

There’s no question about it, the best flannel shirt for fall — and particularly for an early fall weekend — has got to be the rugged, purely essential Taylor Stitch Yosemite Shirt. It’s your new favorite shirt, it doubles as a rugged overshirt, and you can style it plenty of different ways. In short, just know that this is the best men’s shirt for a fall weekend … like this one that’s on the horizon right now! I always love my fall weekends in Brooklyn, from the idllyic confines of Prospect Park to enjoying a rich IPA or crisp Oktoberfest at choice Brooklyn haunts like Gold Star Beer Counter. I’m still waiting on the weather to shift to slightly colder temperatures, but when it does, Taylor Stitch is what I’ll be wearing as I enjoy my favorite beers.

And on tap for me this weekend elsewhere? Some Michigan State football, to be sure, plus preparing plenty of fall style content for the blog and of course, my Instagram. It’s always nice to be able to take some time to relax after travel, too. Again, if you follow me on Instagram, you perhaps saw that I was in Denver last weekend to see my favorite band, indie rock heroes The National! The city is an exceptional one, blending a love of the outdoors with stunning beauty and a host of quirky, cool spots, like My Brother’s Bar (the oldest bar in Denver!) and pioneering Denver brewery Great Divide Brewing. Elsewhere, I also enjoyed a highly affordable and seriously tasty breakfast at Sam’s No. 3 on Sunday to close out my trip, and I also visited the minimal and modern menswear shop Steadbrook — and of course, CREMA provided crucial refreshment & energy throughout. Speaking of great gear, it was also a treat to check out the menswear & gear market expo American Field on Sunday! It’s a yearly traveling showcase highlighting American-made brands (like Topo Designs, a personal favorite!), complete with plenty of craft beer and coffee to test out from local markets (Denver, in this case!). AF heads to Brooklyn this November, too. Not bad at all. Have you been to Denver? What’s next on your radar in terms of trips? Oh, and I almost forgot — let’s get to the Friday Read below!

  • As we shift our attention toward fall and style that’s ever-so-slightly rugged, it would behoove you to reach for a rugged leather watch that can stand up to the rich textures and fabrics of your fall style essentials. To wit: I covered the Dango TK-01 Trek Watch, a heck of a tough leather watch to bring you into the best season for menswear. Check it out at GearMoose.
  • Speaking of fall essentials, one could argue that the best new whiskey is a fine fall essential to have on hand — and in that regard, it was a pleasure to dive right in and cover the 1792 Aged Twelve Years Bourbon for GearMoose. It’s a pleasing fall sipper that’ll warm you up on many a chilly fall or winter night.
  • And let’s close things out today with more essential, seasonal gear from Taylor Stitch — namely, the rugged Taylor Stitch Camp Pants are exactly what the doctor ordered if you’ve got to go off-trail, get upstate or simply suit up in rugged fashion for a chilly tailgate. Don’t sleep on these, folks!

OK, my friends — we’ve called out this handy, seasonal #OOTD in the past, but it’s worth calling attention to again. Wondering how to dress for early fall? Of course you are — that #OOTD as mentioned above can help, guaranteed. Alright, that’s a wrap on the start of this early fall weekend — cheers!

#OOTD: How to Wear a Denim Jacket This Fall

If the throes of summer strike you as a more fitting time to wear a stylish denim jacket — namely, the rugged denim jacket from Taylor Stitch that we’ll be discussing today — then, it’s time to rethink your approach to early fall style. The best denim jacket can serve as a stylish blazer replacement or a different piece of outerwear in lieu of a leather jacket — it’s both versatile and casual, able to provide warmth in the early fall chill and still ready to be taken off at a moment’s notice if temperatures pick up unexpectedly. And with all that being said, the right accessories make all the difference. When seeking casual fall style essentials to wear to your favorite beer bar or to a tailgate or a weekend brunch, it’s best to keep it simple, stylish and rugged. Hence, you’ll notice a classic henley, plus a pair of equally classic chinos from Flint and Tinder that work any time of year — not just during early fall. Naturally, your everyday carry should stay on-point, too; that’s where the best leather watch comes into play. It’s the type of timepiece that’ll stand out at the bar and look great no matter where you take it. And again, the thing is, the best denim jacket can take you a lot of different places all season long (especially when layered up accordingly). The choice is all yours — let’s get to work.

A stylish, transitional, rugged way to wear a denim jacket — guaranteed.

  • The Denim Jacket: Taylor Stitch Long Haul Jacket in 24-Month Wash, $188 — Yes, you can indeed wear a denim jacket in a lighter wash as it gets colder — just layer this rugged denim jacket from Taylor Stitch accordingly.
  • The Henley: Flint and Tinder Heavy Slub Henley, $58 — Seeing as it’s fall and all, well, we’re here to tell you that you need a seriously classic henley. It’s the perfect pairing with your rugged denim jacket, namely.
  • The Chinos: Flint and Tinder Cool Chinos, $98 — Those classic chinos you wore all summer long can still work as we move through September — Flint and Tinder gets it right.
  • The Boots: Yogi Lucas Leather Moccasin Boots, $199 — You could easiy accessorize this outfit with any one of your favorite pairs of leather boots, but these rugged leather moc boots are the way to go.
  • The Watch: Zodiac Grandville Watch, $495 — The best leather watch to complement this outfit? It might just be the rugged Zodiac Grandville Watch, mixing in a bit of dressy style and rugged functionality.
  • The Grooming Essential: HaloSmile Whitening Kit, $59.99 — For as much attention as you put into things like classic chinos, well, your smile also deserves some upkeep. This handy teeth whitening kit is but one step to keeping your smile sharp, folks.
  • The Leather Wallet: Filson Bi-Fold Wallet, $100.98 — This rugged leather wallet from Filson is assuredly one you’ll use everyday — keep an eye on it, and you’ll have it for years to come.
  • The Everyday Bag: WP Standard Canvas Travel Bag, $298 — No matter what the day throws at you, it behooves you to haul around the best everyday bag you can get your hands on; we’ve featured this handsome WP Standard Canvas Travel Bag before, and it’s every bit as essential now.

As we often say here on the blog, it’s all about picking the right pieces around which to build an outfit, especially as temperatures grow chilly (slowly but surely) this fall. And crucially, a rugged denim jacket from Taylor Stitch is going to be the great equalizer when it comes to a versatile, casually rugged piece of outerwear this season. When you match it up with rugged leather moc boots and classic chinos, the major building blocks of your outfit are in place. This is an outfit that exudes casual cool without overdoing it — hence the inclusion of a laidback-yet-timeless Flint and Tinder henley. Taken all at once, this is the type of outfit that’s going to more than serve you well when it comes time to head out on a casual weekend coffee date or to grab your favorite craft beer (both pursuits I plan on indulging quite a bit this fall!). Of course, the small details also help set your #OOTD apart, so don’t leave behind your rugged leather wallet or that critically important, best everyday bag. Finish it all off with a winning smile via the HaloSmile kit, and you’ll both look AND feel your best. It’s as simple as that. Well, not quite. But you get the picture. Enjoy the imminent start of fall, my friends!

See Now, Buy Now: The Taylor Stitch Heavy Bag Long-Sleeve Tee is One of Fall’s Best

The best long-sleeve tee for fall? Try it out for yourself.

There comes a time when stylish guys like yourself (or your partner, or your husband, or your boyfriend) need to step up and take on fall in style — and the right way to do that starts with one of the best long-sleeve shirts of this new season. It comes to you courtesy of Taylor Stitch, not surprisingly. This brand has you covered from season to season without missing a beat — that goes for summer staples like the Taylor Stitch Trail Shorts as well as this fresh new tee. Assuredly, the Taylor Stitch Heavy Bag Long-Sleeve Tee is one of fall’s best T-shirts, made with durable style and sustainable construction in mind. Where to begin with what exactly sets this shirt apart? Well, there’s plenty. First, you’re getting the kind of quality that only Taylor Stitch can bring to the table — the 8oz. cotton-poly blend is done up in handsome raglan sleeve construction and a flattering fit. That’s certainly not all.

SHOP: The Taylor Stitch Heavy Bag Long-Sleeve TeeThe Best Basics. Summer Ready.The Taylor Stitch Heavy Bag Long-Sleeve Tee is also made using a ridiculously sustainable process — to wit, it uses no water and a miniscule amount of CO2 in its production.That leads to a tee that’s going to be comfortable and cozy to wear thanks to the pre-shrunk fit. In fact, this stylish long-sleeve tee should pair up with everything from dark indigo denim and brown leather boots to a rugged chore coat and slim tan chinos, all the while providing essential fall style. It should also wear quite well with other Taylor Stitch favorites — feel free to layer it under the famed Taylor Stitch Yosemite Shirt if you feel so inclined. The bottom line is that the Taylor Stitch Heavy Bag Long-Sleeve Tee is the go-anywhere fall tee you simply can’t live without — guaranteed.

SHOP: The Taylor Stitch Heavy Bag Long-Sleeve Tee