#OOTD: How to Style Your New Favorite Vest for Fall

My friends, don’t sleep on the humble vest. A style move that was at once very on-trend (looking at you, Back to the Future), and then too preppy … is now back in a way that’s just right for the modern man (that’s you!). Maybe you never stopped wearing a stylish vest like the Bridge & Burn Ritter Vest as pictured below. If so, today’s new #OOTD is going to be right up your alley. And if you hadn’t yet considered making a vest part of your fall men’s style essentials? I’d wager that the below suggestion is (hopefully) going to get your gears turning. We’re really easing into it, after all. The building blocks of this outfit are stellar, stylish pieces that any guy should be wearing for fall, from a slim chambray shirt to a rugged henley to classic men’s chinos. And the topper? A classic vest, of course. Go for a piece that’s less technical and less, well, puffy — something that fits slim and sharp is the way to go. Luckily, the Bridge & Burn Ritter Vest fits the bill quite well.  With casual weekend style in mind, you’re going to like these picks … I hope. So, let’s get to the #OOTD — any questions or comments? Head over to The Style Guide Facebook page.

Taking a slimmed-down vest and pairing it with classic men’s style staples.

The Vest: Bridge & Burn Ritter Vest, $198 — Upgrading your vest starts with the material and fit. The warm, slim-fitting Bridge & Burn Ritter Vest features wool-blend fabric and a neutral, wearable color.
The Chambray Shirt: CIVIC The Jack Shirt in Sky Blue Chambray, $128 — A classic chambray shirt is no more fitting than in fall, and CIVIC (an offshoot of Taylor Stitch) makes the Jack Shirt with premium merino fabric and a tailored fit.

The Henley: Flint and Tinder Heavyweight Henley, $62 — What’s more classic for fall than layering a tough henley with a chambray shirt and  your new favorite vest? Not much, folks. Perfectly casual style, comin’ right up.

The Chinos: CIVIC The Frank Chino, $145 — The key to making the vest stylish and modern? Slim chinos from CIVIC — made with sustainability and mobility in mind, of course.

The Boots: Wolverine Evans Boot, $400 —  Fall and winter are the perfect seasons for a tough pair of Wolverine boots — the Evans Boot adds some rugged edge to this classic, straightforward ensemble. Oh, and don’t forget stylish patterned socks from Anonymousism.

The Belt: Levi’s Stinson Belt, $29 — Yet again, Levi’s delivers on a stylish belt to complement the slim chinos in this ensemble. Of course, the Stinson Belt also works with whatever classic Levi’s denim you already own, too.

The Watch: Huckberry x Lum-Tec GMT, $498 — Worried about mixing a black NATO strap watch with a brown belt & boots? Fear not, my friend. The durable Huckberry x Lum-Tec GMT fits right in with the rest of this rugged, casual outfit.

The Beanie: Levi’s Ribbed Beanie, $18 — Hey, it’s chilly out there. A classic beanie in an eye-catching color from a classic brand — good lookin’ out, Levi’s — will keep you warm and stylish.

Have you had the chance to re-think what you thought you knew about the classic men’s vest? Certainly, the Bridge & Burn Ritter Vest features the type of upgraded fabric & fit that you need when you start shopping around for this necessary style upgrade. It also loses its preppy connotations when you streamline it with men’s fall style essentials, from a  classic chambray shirt to a rugged men’s henley from a beloved brand like Flint and Tinder. And the stylish vest gets even easier to wear in casual style situations when you rock it with slim tan chinos and your favorite pair of fall boots (the Wolverine Evans Boot, of course). Accessories from Levi’s — like a durable leather belt and a stylish beanie cap — are destined to become cold-weather favorites, too. Let’s not forget about a tough casual watch; in this instance, the Huckberry x Lum-Tec GMT mixes striking design with a rugged aesthetic. If that sounds like style you can appreciate, I’d make sure you pick up the Bridge & Burn Ritter Vest before it’s too late. From there, you can wear this ensemble on upstate trips, day hikes, a bar crawl, to the farmer’s market, to grab a weekend coffee … you get the gist, right?

How would you style the Bridge & Burn Ritter Vest? Let me know if you plan to snag it for the season!

Thanks for reading,

-Beau

Style Suggestion: What to Wear to Your Next Bar Crawl

It’s time to rethink what you thought you knew about how to wear a leather jacket. More specifically, it’s time to get acquainted — or re-acquainted — with the stunning, stylish Taylor Stitch Moto Jacket. We’ve talked about the Moto Jacket as recently as this past spring, and it’s back again. Plus, it’s the perfect rugged-yet-edgy jacket to wear to your next bar crawl. Available for pre-funding via Taylor Stitch for a limited time only, it might just be the best leather jacket on the market today, what with an excellent fit, quality construction and old-school styling details. And all of those come together in one stylish package, resulting in a leather jacket that you can — and should — wear on a winter bar crawl (or really, whenever you feel like it). The keys here are much the same as with other men’s style essentials. We’re taking pieces that can quickly turn sloppy, and turning everything into an edgy, crisp and cool #menswear ensemble that’s going to outshine your drinking buddies (but only a bit!). It’s all about keeping it casual and versatile, and the Taylor Stitch Moto Jacket is the best place to start in that regard. Sound like a plan? Good stuff.

The Leather Jacket: Taylor Stitch Moto Jacket in Black Steerhide — $875

It doesn’t get better than this stylish, essential leather jacket from Taylor Stitch.

Ahh yes, the holy grail — the classic leather jacket we’ve been talking about. Truly, the Taylor Stitch Moto Jacket, especially in an edgy black steerhide leather, is a thing of beauty. Certainly, it’s gotta be one of the best leather jackets for men, yes? Featuring durable hardware and understated-yet-stylish details like zig-zag collar stitching, this is the perfect jacket to throw on to head to your local watering hole. It looks great, it’s understated (but striking), and it’s easy to layer at the same. The Moto Jacket is, again, a home run.

The Shirt: Taylor Stitch Oxnard Shirt in Sun-Bleached Chambray — $98 (On-Sale)

A classic, rugged chambray shirt that’ll carry you through Saturday night.

Rather than resorting to an old college tee, layer up with a uniquely stylish chambray shirt — yet another menswear essential that Taylor Stitch does very well. The Oxnard Shirt in particular has a lot going for it, from the use of Japanese selvage chambray to the pleasantly lived-in wash. Think of it as a significant style upgrade that’ll provide warmth from the chill, while adding a bit of casual contrast to the edgy Moto Jacket.

The Henley: Flint and Tinder Heavyweight Henley in Natural — $62

A durable, tough henley for a tough ensemble.

What’s better, or cooler, to wear to a bar crawl than a classic, rugged men’s henley? There’s really not much that’s going to look better when layered up with a stylish chambray shirt than a classic henley — especially the Flint and Tinder number seen here. And because we’re going for durability, warmth and serious style, the Flint and Tinder Heavyweight Henley in Natural is going to be the way to go. It’s a nice value for the price, too. Edgy, classic and cool.

The Denim: Taylor Stitch Slim Jean in Cone Mills Standard — $98

A classic pair of blue denim for a classic night out — right?

Slim, well-made and classic blue denim is a men’s style staple that guys have been wearing to the bar — and heck, everywhere — for years upon years. So, when it comes time to dress for your next bar crawl, there’s no need to reinvent the well. The Taylor Stitch Slim Jeans are perhaps some of the best men’s denim out there, made with quality Cone Mills denim and featuring the type of design that only gets better with time.

The Boots: Hudson Shoes Aldford Suede Boots in Olive — $220

Sleek, edgy boots to complete this look.

A fall or winter bar crawl calls for footwear that’s more rugged and durable than your favorite pair of summer sneakers. That’s where the Hudson Shoes Aldford Suede Boots come into play. They’re a seriously stylish, well-made pair of durable men’s boots, and they feature a bit of sleek style. The Aldford Suede Boots are absolutely more hard-wearing than canvas sneakers, making ’em perfect for a cold-weather bar crawl. And you’re not dropping a grand on the Aldford Boots — they’ll probably look even better with a few battle scars.

The Watch: Techne Merlin Watch — $168

A simple, understated and stylish watch.

 When you’re wearing style staples like a badass leather jacket and a stylish chambray shirt, your watch doesn’t need to be an insanely ostentatious, eye-catching timepiece. In fact, the perfect casual men’s watch to buy (and wear) for your next bar crawl might be a crisp, classic and tough watch like the Techne Merlin Watch. The grey NATO strap on the Merlin Watch is durable and neutral, and the price allows you to beat this watch up without fear of it dying on you. Ya dig?

The Belt: Sturdy Brothers Everyday Belt in Black — $80 

Don’t forget your everyday belt from Sturdy Brothers.

We always talk about the importance of stylish everyday accessories, right? And the Everyday Belt is, well, one of those stylish everyday accessories. Well-crafted, durable and built to age the more you wear it, the Sturdy Brothers Everyday Belt is a surprisingly rugged piece that’s just better than the belt you might be wearing now.  And you needn’t worry about it breaking or giving way during your hours-long bar crawl — that’s all you can ask for.

The Socks: Anonymousism Boucle Mix Socks in Olive — $18

Comfortable socks that also happen to be stylish? For sure.

Hours spent on your feet at fall and winter bar crawls call for stylish men’s socks that can take a beating while keeping your feet comfortable. That’s absolutely where Anonymousim helps you out — the brand’s Boucle Mix Socks combine an understated, seasonally appropriate color with quality fabric and a great fit. For $18, they’re an investment that’ll pay off time and again, bar after bar.

The Everyday Carry Essential: Taylor Stitch Keyhook in Raw Brass — $32

The best way to ensure you hang on to your keys — no driving, though!

Seeing as you’ll be out and about for quite a few hours, you best prepare accordingly when it comes to everyday carry essentials, right? And for keeping your keys handy, something that’s TRULY critical when knocking back your favorite beer, the durable Taylor Stitch Keyhook is the piece you’ll be glad you bought. One thing though — don’t drink and drive. Heck, don’t drink and bike. Either way, the Taylor Stitch Keyhook is going to help you hang onto your house keys (and avoid that late-night locksmith call).

The Slim Wallet: Red Wing Heritage Card Holder Wallet — $74.99

A well-crafted card holder to keep your, well, cards handy during a bar crawl.

For hours out on the town, you need a durable, slim and understated wallet that slides easily in and out of your jacket or jeans pocket with no hassle — right? The Red Wing Heritage Card Holder features authentic Red Wing shoe leather, a slim profile and the space to carry your essential cards (20 on each side, to be exact). That’s a ton of bang for your buck. And considering that a slim leather wallet is just as much of an everyday carry essential as a durable keyhook, I’d recommend you pick this one up before you start knocking ’em back.

The Beanie: Upstate Stock Melange Rag Wool Beanie — $32

Last but not least, don’t step out without properly protecting yourself from the chill. And no, a “beer jacket” won’t cut it this time. No sir, the understated — yet ultra-warm — Upstate Stock Melange Rag Wool Beanie is the one accessory you certainly need this fall and winter. Made in New York with a wool-nylon blend for functionality and comfort, the Melange Rag Wool Beanie is a warm way to top off this rugged style ensemble. Cheers!

OK, well that’s all we’ve got today in terms of this style suggestion. The Taylor Stitch Moto Jacket is a remarkably durable and well-crafted jacket that’s going to stand out in the best way possible in a sea of fellas at the bar.  When teamed up with a stylish chambray shirt and other cold-weather style essentials — the Flint and Tinder Heavyweight Henley in Natural among them — your top half is set when it comes to edgy (and warm!) style. And accessories like the Hudson Shoes Aldford Suede Boots and the Techne Merlin Watch are going to add durability and understated, classic style that’s fit for a night out. When you accessorize with pieces like the Upstate Stock Melange Rag Wool Beanie and heck, even socks like the Boucle Mix Socks, you’re going to stay warm and toasty no matter how many bars you hit. Oh, and before you hit the bars, stow your cards in the durable Red Wing Heritage Card Holder and keep your keys safe with the Taylor Stitch Keyhook. The only thing that’s left to do now? Plot your bar crawl, save up some extra coins, and prepare to head out. Put one on my tab, right? Right.

Thanks for reading!

-Beau

See Now, Buy Now: Invest in the Best with the Taylor Stitch Moto Jacket

A stunning, extraordinary jacket from a brand that always delivers.

If you’re on the hunt for a stylish leather jacket, you might as well just really go for it — right? Such is the case with the Taylor Stitch Moto Jacket, an extraordinary piece of outerwear from the Style Guide favorites at Taylor Stitch. It’s gotta be among the best men’s leather jackets, that much I’m sure of. The Moto Jacket has been done by the brand before — as far back as 2015 — but the new Taylor Stitch Moto Jacket, specifically in Tobacco Weatherproof Suede, is a thing of beauty. And in my estimation, that’s exactly why we’re coming at you with a special Monday edition of our See Now, Buy Now series. Here’s the catch — the Taylor Stitch Moto Jacket is only available for pre-order at the moment, so there’s some waiting involved. But when it finally hits your doorstep? My oh my, I think you’ll be mighty pleased with the latest rendition of the Moto Jacket. Part of the brand’s Moto Collection, the Moto Jacket is pre-funding for a limited time only, and it’s not hard to see why it’s such a fan favorite.

The brand worked with the master outerwear purveyors at Golden Bear to turn a decades-old silhouette into a seriously stylish modern iteration. Put it simply: The Moto Jacket is absolutely drool-worthy (and actually quite the steal at the pre-funding price of $875). Made from Italian suede finished with a DWR treatment, it’s the rare suede jacket that’s waterproof. That’s a positive, because the Moto Jacket should become a go-to for all of your favorite menswear essentials, from a slim Taylor Stitch henley to a chambray shirt to a classic Oxford and a wool tie. In short, the Taylor Stitch Moto Jacket is going to make each and every ensemble you throw on even better (short of dressing for a black tie gala, that is). And the details, from the zig-zag stitched reinforced collar to the cotton flannel-lined pockets to the antique brass zipper, are as good as you’re going to find. So, let’s salute Taylor Stitch for the Moto Jacket … and then let’s get that pre-order taken care of, right?

Happ Monday, my friends — happy shopping!

-Beau

See Now, Buy Now: The Jack Shirt from CIVIC Is Your New Daily Chambray Shirt

A highly wearable, highly durable and truly classic chambray shirt from CIVIC.

What do you get when Taylor Stitch launches a partner brand geared toward sleek, modern and sustainable style? You get CIVIC, a new brand for the modern man that’s offering up stylish, effective products like the Jack Shirtquite possibly your new go-to chambray shirt. Here’s the real kicker: CIVIC is more than just your average menswear company. More to the point, the team at CIVIC focuses on classic pieces made with an eye toward the environment; think fabrics that are durable and mobile, yet eco-conscious. Did we mention CIVIC does this all with an emphasis on using high-quality merino, beloved for everything from odor resistance to a natural breathability? All of that means a shirt as classic and essential as the Jack Shirt in Sky Blue Chambray is made to be worn time and again for rugged fall style, comfortable winter style, and every situation in between.

The brand’s Merino 4S fabric meets the tailored fit and rugged-yet-versatile styling potential for which CIVIC‘s partner brand — Taylor Stitch, of course — is known. That means it’s got the potential to last through your commute in the heat of summer or the chill of winter. The textured fabric and classic design details, including a collar that’s neither too small nor too big, add to the long list of pros when it comes to picking up the Jack Shirt in Sky Blue Chambray. It’s certainly an investment when it comes to a stylish chambray shirt; it’ll set you back nearly $130. Yet, you’re getting an utterly timeless and reliable shirt when it comes to the Jack Shirt, made with styling potential that works all day, every day. From classic Levi’s denim and tan leather boots to rich leather sneakers and a sport-inspired cardigan, the wearability of the  Jack Shirt in Sky Blue Chambray nearly can’t be topped — that goes for work or play. When it comes to fall layering for outdoor adventures, the Jack Shirt is going to team up quite nicely with, say a rugged Taylor Stitch utility shirt.  But I’ve said enough — will you be buying the Jack Shirt in Sky Blue Chambray for the season ahead (and far, far beyond)? Let me know on The Style Guide Facebook page!

Thanks for reading,

-Beau

Online Shopping Picks: Shop The Best Men’s Fall Shirts Right Now

In terms of fall style essentials, there are some categories you need to take care of before it gets too late. And that’s why we’re diving into the best men’s fall shirts today on The Style Guide — and these picks aren’t the same ones that are going to get you through spring and summer, that much is true. We’re talking rugged, tough shirts with some heft — pieces like the Taylor Stitch Utility Shirt — and essential, everyday shirts like a classic Filson flannel shirt. But we’ll get to all of that in a second. Just as with the best men’s boots for fall, picking out a stylish and rugged fall shirt comes down to the details — the fit, the fabric and the mix of quality for the price. Look for comfortable, warm fabrics that are easy to layer over other seasonal pieces, like a striped henley or an American-made Oxford. And look for richer colors in darker, earthy tones, which should pair up nicely with everything from classic suede chukkas to broken-in leather boots. That’s just the start of today’s essential rundown, though. Check out my picks below, chime in on Twitter with your thoughts and leave any questions in the comments section below! Cheers.

#1. Portuguese Flannel Briteiro Shirt — $125

A well-made, tailored flannel shirt for the office and for the weekend.

Does anything scream fall quite like a classic flannel shirt? Portuguese Flannel has painstakingly crafted the Briteiro Shirt with premium quality and premium fabrication — no scratchy flannel here. And the Briteiro Shirt also has a pleasingly tailored look — that means you can wear it with slim tan chinos and stylish men’s dress shoes to the office just as easily as you can pair it with tan leather boots and black denim for a unique bar-going outfit.  Add a rugged dive watch, and you’re set for anywhere your weekend takes you.

#2. Relwen Tweed Snap CPO — $248

Is it a shirt that’s also a jacket, or a jacket that’s a shirt? Either way, Relwen has done a great job with this new fall essential.

Part of the beauty of fall revolves around throwing on rugged, versatile layers — like the Relwen Tweed Snap CPO. Part shirt, part jacket, the Tweed Snap CPO from Relwen is crafted with a strong silhouette and warm fabric. The Tweed Snap CPO can certainly pull double duty; throw it on over your favorite chambray shirt to take a weekend stroll through the park, or team the Tweed Snap CPO with a striped henley to head to a bonfire or a beer tasting. It’s a ready-made accessory to pieces like classic blue denim and tough leather boots, too.

#3. Filson Vintage Flannel Work Shirt in Black and Cream — $145

A classic, work-ready offering from a company that’s made rugged gear for generations.

If ever there was a company that defined the classic flannel shirt, it might just be Filson. The brand’s Vintage Flannel Work Shirt gets all the details right, from the unique black-and-cream check combo to the sturdy, durable fabric. The Vintage Flannel Work Shirt is certainly an investment-worthy piece, the type of shirt your dad might have worn (or still wears) to do yard work on chilly fall days. The good news is, the Filson Vintage Flannel Work Shirt will serve you just as well for work or play (I like it best to wear to a tailgate atop a stylish team T-shirt).

#4. Mollusk Surf Shop One-Pocket Shirt in Tobacco Plaid — $110

A rich, well-crafted fall shirt from Mollusk Surf Shop.

Fall is all about welcoming richer colors into your wardrobe, from dusty, earthy hues to the classically fall vibes of the Mollusk Surf Shop One-Pocket Shirt. I know I’m a fan. The Tobacco Plaid color of this stylish fall shirt hits the nail on the head. The One-Pocket Shirt should team up nicely with casual, faded American-made denim and a garment-dyed crewneck tee, and you should also feel free to layer this Mollusk Surf Shop shirt with a classic crewneck sweater for a weekend brunch outing.

#5. Taylor Stitch Utility Shirt — $148

Here’s your next fall shirt — made for rugged fall adventures, yard work, tailgates … you name it.

As first seen in this site’s See Now Buy Now series, the Taylor Stitch Utility Shirt is exactly the type of shirt we’re talking about when we explore rugged fall shirting. Made in a cool Moss Merino Herringbone fabric, this rugged fall shirt is practically made for layering with a Taylor Stitch henley and inky blue selvedge denim. You can — and should — wear it for getting out and doing yard work, going on a day hike or heading to a fall bonfire. The Taylor Stitch Utility Shirt is that versatile.

#6. Iron and Resin Ridge Shirt in Tan — $148

Iron and Resin

A distinctly cool, stylish shirt from a brand that normally makes gear for the open road.

Iron and Resin is perhaps best known for its moto-inspired gear, but the brand also makes stylish off-duty and off-road gear with the best of ‘em, like the Ridge Shirt. The Iron and Resin Ridge Shirt features a rich seasonal color scheme that works with charcoal trousers and a navy herringbone blazer for your 9-to-5. Make no mistake though, the Iron and Resin Ridge Shirt might team best with slim black denim and stylish leather Chelsea boots for grabbing a weekend brew  … or four.

#7. Abercrombie & Fitch Cotton Herringbone Shirt — $58

Abercrombie & Fitch

A vintage-inspired shirt with cool texture and cool design details.

Want an affordable option in terms of stylish fall shirting? Abercrombie & Fitch, a brand that’s constantly on the up-and-up in terms of modern takes on classic styles, can help with that. Just as with the Abercrombie & Fitch Chamois Shirt, the Cotton Herringbone Shirt is a rugged fall layering essential, finished in a neat fall fabric and set apart thanks to design details like a button chest pocket. Wear this shirt with olive chinos and tan suede chukkas to head to a fall beer festival.

#8. Life/After/Denim Academy Shirt in Heather Grey — $138

A crisp shirt that works for both casual and more tailored situations.

The Academy Shirt from Life/After/Denim, like other options on this list of the best men’s fall shirts, certainly isn’t all that cheap. But as you might have seen in our #OOTD on how to wear a denim jacket this fall, the Life/After/Denim Academy Shirt can team with outfits both casual and more tailored. Feel free to team it with a navy herringbone blazer and dark denim for classic business casual style, and keep this shirt handy to head to a weekend house party alongside grey selvedge denim.

That’ll wrap up our list of the best men’s fall shirts. It’s certainly not comprehensive of every single brand you could pick up, but for my money’s worth, there are some excellent picks on this list when it comes to rugged fall shirts. My personal favorite might be the durable, versatile Taylor Stitch Utility Shirt, fit for weekend strolls and rock concerts alike. Of course, the Life/After/Denim Academy Shirt packs a crisp punch in terms of business casual style, as does the Abercrombie & Fitch Cotton Herringbone Shirt. And if it’s laidback-yet-classic fall style you want? Reach for the Filson Vintage Flannel Work Shirt or the equally durable Iron and Resin Ridge Shirt. For wearing with your favorite pair of denim on the weekends, the Mollusk Surf Shop One-Pocket Shirt should get the job done nicely, too. Perhaps you prefer your fall shirting with a bit of tailored style? That’s where the Portuguese Flannel Briteiro Shirt comes into play — you could even rock that shirt with a tailored worsted wool suit and stylish dress shoes. But I’ll leave the styling up to you. Let me know in the comments if you’re adding to your wardrobe rotation this season!

Which of the above stylish men’s shirts are you picking up? To see how I’m styling my favorite fall shirts, head to Instagram.

Thanks for reading!

-Beau

#OOTD: Upgrade Your Casual Weekend Style for Fall

Alright, you know the drill. We’re back at it with another #OOTD for the weekend and beyond this fall. You know the situation — perhaps you had a late Friday or Saturday night, yet weekend brunch or coffee is calling your name. What are you going to wear? The answer, my friend: Casual weekend style that incorporates essential fall layers, a rugged overshirt, a stylish slim henley and …. wait for it … tailored sweatpants that actually look great. Truly! It’s all about taking pieces you already have in your closet, upgrading their fabrics, dialing in the fit and focusing on the details — those moves are going to set you apart from folks who’ve just rolled out of bed. And if you’ve been soft on wearing tailored sweatpants out of your apartment or house, know that the pair as seen in today’s #OOTD is a lot better than any you might have had in high school or college. So, it’s easier than you think to look great on the weekend … even when you might not feel that great. Have an iced coffee and a Bloody Mary for me,  while you’re at it. We’ll see you out there — chime in on Twitter or in the comments with your thoughts on this #menswear ensemble. Cheers!

Start with a rugged overshirt and add other casual, laidback pieces to get weekend style right.

The Overshirt: Finisterre Petrichor Overshirt, $76.98 — Start things out the right way — leave the old hoodie at home and throw on a versatile, rugged overshirt from Finisterre — all the better for weekend coffee or brunch.

The Henley: Taylor Stitch Mercerized Merino Henley, $98 (When Signing Up for Bespoke Post— If you don’t yet have a rugged fall henley in your rotation, pick up this Taylor Stitch henley — far better than an old T-shirt.

The Sweatpants: Muttonhead Sweat Pants in Heather Navy , $112 —  Yes, that’s right. Here are the stylish sweatpants we talked about. A tailored silhouette and the pleasing heather navy color of these Muttonhead sweatpants makes ’em a great, easygoing weekend style move.

The Sneakers: SeaVees Legend Cordies Varsity Sneakers in Navy, $67.98 — Leave the logo sneakers at home – the Legend Cordies Varsity Sneakers are a seriously cool pair of stylish fall sneakers from SeaVees.

The Socks: Anonymousism 5-Color Mix Crew Sock in Black, $22 — As we always say here at The Style Guide, don’t overlook small details like stylish socks. These understated Anonymousism socks are a sharp weekend upgrade.

The Watch: Timex Waterbury Watch in Red Wing Leather, $139 — Stay on time for weekend brunch with a classic Timex watch — the definition of an affordable leather watch to add to your weekend wardrobe.

The Grooming Essential: The Rich + Clean New Standard Face Wash, $18 (When Signing Up for Bespoke Post— Keeping your grooming game on point is all the more important if your bar crawl went a little long. The New Standard Face Wash will give you a bit of pep in your step.

The Ballcap: Ebbets Field Flannels x Bespoke Post “B” Baseball Cap, $38 — Available exclusively at Bespoke Post, this stylish ballcap is an understated, simple way to stick with casual weekend style — oh, and it saves you the trouble of styling your ‘do.

OK — ready for weekend brunch yet? Getting around in style even on a casual fall weekend starts with picking the right laidback pieces, like the rugged-yet-easily-wearable Finisterre Petrichor Overshirt  and a slim Taylor Stitch henley. And when you reach for surprisingly stylish sweatpants, your weekend is going to get started on the right foot — it’s as easy as dialing in the fit and fabric, folks. Plus, the Legend Cordies Varsity Sneakers from SeaVees are a heck of a cool pair of casual sneakers to step out wearing on the weekend — and the neat texture and design works well with a rugged Timex watch for a bit of fall-friendly visual interest.  When you cap off the whole ensemble — literally — with a stylish Ebbets Field Flannels ballcap and small details like stylish Anonymous-ism socks — you’re going to be set for a much-needed brunch. That’s all we’ve got today, my friends. Let me know via The Style Guide Facebook page if you’re a fan of this look!

Thanks for reading,

-Beau

The Friday Read: A Taylor Stitch Giveaway, Portland Travel Tips and Stylish Sweatshirts

Is it just me, or has it been a long week? For your Style Guide author at least, it took a bit to recover from a fun trip out West to the lovely city of Portland! That’s  a long flight back to Brooklyn, but while in the City of Roses, I visited som excellent craft breweries, dined at a few great restaurants and took in a live show by the excellent synth pop band Future Islands! Again, you can read my trip recap and get some travel style tips of your own at that link. All very cool, exciting things to do on the road — and a nice way to cap off a month of travel, which also included a weekend trip to Nashville! Given all the hustle and bustle over these past few weeks, I’m definitely looking forward to a relaxing weekend exploring Brooklyn and of course, working on more #menswear content while listening to some excellent tunes and perhaps enjoying a refreshing cold brew. On that note, The Killers released a  new album, “Wonderful Wonderful,” last week — despite some mixed reviews, it’s on track to be the band’s first No.1 album in the U.S. How about that? Maybe give that a listen as you dive into the below men’s style news? And most importantly, enjoy the weekend and check out tomorrow’s Style Pick of the Week. Cheers!

  • Let’s kick things off with news of an important giveaway — perhaps the most important giveaway you’ll enter all week! No, definitely the most important giveaway you’ll enter all week. GearMoose is giving you the chance to win a Taylor Stitch giveaway featuring pieces from the stellar Good Acre Collection. That includes a durable Chore Shirt or two, hard-wearing Chore Pants and plenty, plenty more — enter the Taylor Stitch giveaway at GearMoose and you’ll (hopefully) be rewarded! A heads-up — it runs for two weeks, so you’ve got plenty of time to again, enter this stellar Taylor Stitch giveaway.
  • What’s more quintessentially American than the crewneck sweatshirt? With athletic roots and a heritage that’s decidedly not high-fashion, this staple has stuck around for decades — and the stylish crewneck sweatshirt is being brought back in all kinds of forms by designers and brands new and old. You probably even know some (including the Todd Snyder x Champion Classic Pocket Sweatshirt, yes?). That’s why it was such a treat to write about the best men’s crewneck sweaters for The Manual — shop away and enjoy!
  • With roots in sporty and collegiate style — at least where I’m from in the Midwest — a stylish hooded sweatshirt can be tough to come by. But a hooded bomber jacket is an easy, grab-and-go piece that can actually look pretty smooth in more casual style situations — don’t take my word for it, though. Style Girlfriend tells you all about how to wear a hooded bomber the right way this season. It can indeed be done, friends!
  • Let’s end on another music-related note. Here in Brooklyn earlier this week, I had the pleasure of seeing the fantastic, fun and bright British pop duo Oh Wonder. They dropped their second album, “Ultralife,” earlier this summer, as it were — it’s filled with vibrant hooks, beautiful singing by Josephine Vander Gucht and some great live tracks. It’s an unexpected second album from a duo that never intended to make an album in the first place, and this Toronto Star profile captures the innovative, fun spirit that went into this album (and a heck of a show at Brooklyn Steel!).

We’re going to get the weekend started a little early today, my friends — we’ve got the Michigan State-Iowa football game coming up tomorrow, and I’d wager that we’ve got some men’s style and craft beer adventures around Brooklyn on the way, too. Follow along on Instagram for more, check back tomorrow for a new Style Pick of the Week and make sure you see us on Sunday for another See Now, Buy Now entry — #SundayFunday style.

Thanks for reading!

-Beau

Online Shopping Picks: These Are the Best Men’s Jackets for Fall

These are heady times we live in — busy times, too. If you’ve followed along with our Online Shopping Picks series on The Style Guide, you know that we’re all about getting you prepped for rugged fall style. And that continues today, in a big way. Putting together a rugged fall #menswear look is about the details — the big categories and the small ones, too. And in the way of essential men’s style for fall,  outerwear is a pretty big category. So, we’ll get you shopping and thinking today. The best men’s jackets for fall feature durable construction, essential warmth and pleasingly rugged-yet-versatile style — that combination is going to take you a lot of places.

Some of the below picks, like the tough Taylor Stitch Bomber Jacket seen below, can work in both casual and tailored situations (try it with an American-made Oxford and a knit tie). And others — like the Bridge and Burn Thielsen Jacket — fit right in with the rugged climes of fall. Regardless, this list of rugged fall jackets should have you set for the season. For more #menswear than you can shake a stick at, follow me on Twitter or Instagram. Enjoy fall — soon enough, anyways!

#1. Taylor Stitch Albion Jacket — $265 

A rugged and versatile piece that’s ideal for layering.

Yes indeed, ladies and gentlemen … the Taylor Stitch Albion Jacket tops our list, and with good reason. It’s the perfect transitional jacket to wear during early fall and on through November. Made from a custom-developed two-way stretch windshell nylon fabric, the Albion Jacket is a positively versatile layering piece. It’s even lined in fleece and is water-resistant — it’s a stylish fall jacket for layering over a rugged striped henley and teaming with classic dark denim.

#2. Abercrombie and Fitch Shera-Lined Corduroy Jacket — $160

A cozy jacket that evokes classic, timeless fall style.

Abercrombie and Fitch — a Style Guide favorite — continues to come roaring back season after season, and the Sherpa-Lined Curdory Jacket is a prime example of that. It evokes the kind of classic fall jacket that your dad or grandpa might have worn to do yard work, except this number features a slimmed-down fit and just as much warmth — plus added style points. Again, a slim striped henley and suede chukka boots are ideal companions.

#2. Flint and Tinder Stretch Denim Trucker Jacket — $158

Flint and Tinder

This piece could very well be your new favorite denim jacket — agreed? Agreed.

Originally part of our See Now, Buy Now series, the Flint and Tinder Stretch Denim Trucker Jacket should be welcomed to this list with open arms. At least, I think so. Everyone needs a stylish denim jacket in their layering arsenal — the Flint and Tinder Stretch Denim Trucker features a crisp indigo color and the type of easygoing wearability that looks great with slim tan chinos and a white chambray shirt or a slim striped henley.

#3. Bridge and Burn Thielsen Jacket — $238

A fall-ready color and durable cotton construction set this jacket apart.

If you’ve read our Style Guide Q+A with Portland lifestyle brand Bridge and Burn, you know they’re dedicated to making classic, straightforward pieces with a touch of Northwest style influence. And in this case, the Bridge and Burn Thielsen Jacket channels the kind of rugged durability you need this fall, and tosses in a healthy dose of style, too. The hard-wearing cotton outer and quilted liner of the Thielsen Jacket provide protection from the elements, while the rich Acorn color is a fall-ready shade. Who’s ready to hit the pumpkin patch, people?

#4.  BANKS Tombstone Jacket — $130

BANKS Tombstone Jacket

Another warm, classic and durablly made piece of outerwear for the season.

The rugged fall style just keeps coming in spades with the BANKS Tombstone Jacket. A unique brand available via the great folks at Bespoke Post, the Tombstone Jacket channels classic style with a modern edge. Which is to say, the faded blue cotton exterior plays nicely off the golden sherpa collar, while the lined warmer pockets ensure you stay warm even at long, chilly tailgates. So, throw on the Tombstone Jacket and pass me a beer, will ya?

#6. Taylor Stitch Long Haul Jacket in Cone Mills Selvage — $188

Taylor Stitch

A handsome denim jacket that’ll only get better with age.

Another jacket from Taylor Stitch on our list of the best men’s fall jackets? Yes indeed, you bet. The Long Haul Jacket is a much-loved silhouette from the brand, harnessing a slick, slim design with the power of Cone Mills denim. That’s right — Taylor Stitch teamed up with the country’s foremost denim mill on a rugged denim jacket that you can wear now over a chambray shirt and wear later over a stylish crewneck sweater. And that’s just the beginning, I’d wager.

#7. Taylor Stitch Maritime Shirt Jacket — $148

A faded shirt jacket that layers with darn near anything in your closet — a job well-done by Taylor Stitch.

Hey, might as well round out this list with more rugged menswear from Taylor Stitch, yeah? The Maritime Shirt Jacket made an appearance in our #OOTD series earlier this year — specifically when it comes to how to wear a rugged overshirt — and it’s guaranteed to impress. The Maritime Shirt Jacket features a cool sun-bleached finish, sturdy construction and the type of fit that works with slim chinos and wingtip boots or black denim in equal measure.

#8.  Finisterre Petrichor Overshirt — $76.98

A durable, rugged silhouette with the strong fabrication to match.

Why exactly are we included an overshirt on this list of fall’s best jackets? Well, my friends — anything goes when it comes to stylish fall layering, and the construction and style of the Petrichor Overshirt is such that it can serve as both if needed. It’s an affordable stylish chore jacket that doubles as overshirt, and the densely woven cotton and cool khaki color make for a heck of a durable piece — so, sold on the Petrichor Overshirt yet?

Alright, friends — what’s your favorite pick of the above? Will it be the rugged versatility of the sturdy cotton Petrichor Overshirt or the sun-bleached cool of the Maritime Shirt Jacket? Is it perhaps the classically styled BANKS Tombstone Jacket or the rough-and-rugged  Long Haul Jacket? Yes indeed, from sherpa-collar corduroy jackets from Abercrombie and Fitch to a durable cotton number like the Bridge and Burn Thielsen Jacket, I hope you found this list helpful. It’s about finding the right fabrication and the silhouette that works for — because believe it or not, I’m sure once you try one of these rugged fall jackets, you’ll want to wear it as much as you can.

How’d we do with today’s post? What do you think of the above picks? Feel free to drop a note in the comments below, or hit me up on Twitter! 

Keep Portland Weird! A West Coast Weekend Adventure

Hanging out at TwentySix Cafe in versatile, rugged gear for exploring Portland. My Bridge & Burn Northfork Woodland Jacket, the Taylor Stitch Sashiko Shirt, All-American Washed Jeans from Flint and Tinder and my Grizzly Wheat President Boots from Thursday Boots worked out tremendously!

Before we kick things off in today’s latest travel style feature on The Style Guide, know that we’re not about to dive into a “Portlandia” parody (as outstanding as that show happens to be). No sir, this past weekend gave me the chance to head West — although I’d spent a weekend exploring Los Angeles and even made a trip out to Las Vegas for work last year, I’d never been to the City of Roses. I’ve been hearing great things about its balance of excellent #menswear, standout craft beer, a great culinary scene and of course, stellar live music — in my book, that’s more than enough reason to get out and adventure.


And the my long weekend brought with it the added value of an amazing concert — always a bonus! Yes indeed, seeing excellent synth pop band Future Islands play the renowned Crystal Ballroom was a heck of a treat on Friday night. Although it was quite the long trek to get out there following a long work week in New York, I did my best to pack in style (as you might have seen via my Instagram page). Come along for the journey!

Slim, faded denim, a durable Saddleback duffel bag, trusty James Dean Eyewear sunglasses … all that you need for a weekend out West.

Traveling in style and comfort can be a bit of a challenge — particularly on a long flight. That’s why I reached for my durable, pleasingly faded All-American Washed Jeans from Flint and Tinder. Made from premium cotton denim and finished with just a hint of stretch, my All-American Washed Jeans were a fine pair of denim to go from the airport to go to the hip, quiet and cozy TwentySix Cafe near my Irvington accommodations. And my uniquely detailed Taylor Stitch Sashiko Shirt worked just as well on the plane as it did trekking around Portland, particularly when teamed with the richly crafted Grizzly Wheat President Boot from Thursday Boots. To stay on time through it all, I reached for a brand-new, slim and refined Timex watch — the versatile leather strap proved easily wearable all day long. To shield my eyes from the sun in style, a new pair of James Dean Eyewear JDS100 Sunglasses looked great and proved up to the task. The next time your trip calls for exploring a new city on foot, reach for mobile denim, comfortable-yet-tough boots, a sharp watch and stylish, go-anywhere shirting. 

All the right details for exploring Portland, including a new Timex watch and my rugged Thursday Boots Grizzly Wheat President Boots.

And exploration was certainly the name of the game on Friday leading up to that night’s Future Islands show. Thankfully, my durable, rugged and extremely well-crafted Saddleback Rounded Leather Duffel Bag held up to the challenge of lugging around my favorite travel style essentials as I hopped from grabbing a crucial cold brew to the excellent Bunk Bar Wonder, one of a series of PDX locations offering gourmet sandwiches, excellent craft cocktails and a very solid beer selection. A hint — get the Molě Tator Tots, packed with delicious flavor. It was a great afternoon lead-in to a stop at the richly appointed Tanner Goods Flagship Store and the accompanying craft cocktail/beer bar & patio, The Wayback. This American-made brand has long been a favorite of mine for handsome leather goods, durable outerwear, stylish home decor and terrific attention to detail — it was a treat to finally stop by! So with coffee, menswear and craft beer on lock, that led to the night’s highlight: Future Islands bringing down a packed Crystal Ballroom with a stellar show! It helped that I dressed in comfort and style; I can simply never resist the chance to wear rugged leather boots to a concert, either.

The Baltimore-based synth pop band’s rise to fame has been a long one — they’ve played more than 1,000 shows across the country since 2006, often booking them on their own. And if you’re not familiar, I’d say you’ll recognize them from their 2014 appearance on Letterman playing hit single “Seasons (Waiting on You).” Believe me, frontman Sam Herring is every bit as energetic, passionate and enjoyable in person — I knew that from seeing the band play Panorama 2017 here in NYC! And their return to Portland was an anticipated one, coming as it did off the release of one of this year’s better albums, the emotionally packed “The Far Field.

With an extensive discography spanning five albums and plenty of crowd favorites, a Future Islands show is full of highs and lows, joy and passion — it’s a sight to behold, from hits like 2017’s “Ran” and 2014’s “A Dream of You and Me” to fan favorites like “Seasons,” of course! And Crystal Ballroom, what with a historic interior and a tremendous craft beer selection — including choice selections brewed in Portland — is simply a quirky, cool, standout venue for a live show. Did it top my trip to Nashville to see Young the Giant and Cold War Kids? It’s tough to say – but Future Islands blew me away yet again. Even dealing with a bit of jet lag, it was still a heck of a way to cap off a big Portland day.

Durable Allen Edmonds boots, a finely crafted Abercrombie cotton shirt and a durable Timex x Red Wing watch — perfect Portland essentials.

So, with Friday night in the books, my Saturday kicked off in style — from the ground up, as it were. For getting around Portland with durability, rugged looks and sharp versatility in mind, my brand-new Allen Edmonds Caen Cap Toe Boots worked extremely well. Of course, I started my day right on time with my Timex x Red Wing Waterbury Watch, but stellar boots were just as critical. Coming from a brand mainly known for stylish men’s dress shoes, these rugged cap toe boots are a welcome addition to the Allen Edmonds line — and what’s more, they worked nicely in tandem with the crisp, easily wearable Flint and Tinder 365 Pants. Cut like a five-pocket pant and made from a blend of cotton and lyrca, my 365 Pants helped me grab a quick coffee at essential Portland stop Blue Star Donuts before kicking off afternoon shopping at Style Guide favorites Bridge & Burn. On the shirting front, I reached for a nice fall go-between — a new Abercrombie & Fitch Herringbone Shirt, courtesy of the brand. I can’t recommend the rugged versatility of Abercrombie & Fitch enough, and this soft-washed cotton shirt was able to withstand a full day out and about in Portland.

I packed a lot into an already busy day, including a stop at the excellent Kiriko Made shop — renowned for indigo textiles, excellent shirting and stunning attention to detail on items as small as pocket squares, Kiriko should certainly be on your shopping list if you get out to Portland.  And just as with my trip to Nashville, I had to hit up a renowned craft beer spot or two. The afternoon started with the Deschutes Brewery Portland location — a craft beer lover’s dream.  Lauded for rich, innovative and hard-to-find beers (at least back in NYC), I can’t recommend the nearly legendary Black Butte Porter or the Inversion IPA enough. It was a nice lead-in to another busy evening — centered, of course, around a trip to bustling sports bar The Independent to catch my beloved Michigan State Spartans take on the Notre Dame Fighting Irish! And for a postgame brew, I headed to 10Barrel Brewing, another Oregon favorite that’s always a treat to sip.

Men's travel style

Heading back home in comfortable Standard Deviation denim, a classic Bridge and Burn tee and my trusty Huckberry Explorer’s Cap.

To kick off my last and final day in style — and with a jolt – I stopped by the Ace Hotel Portland, a hip boutique hotel that’s also a favorite spot in NYC for post-work drinks and small bites. Oh, and the coffee from Stumptown Coffee Roasters? It’s excellent, too. I also made my final day count in terms of #menswear, from my Astorflex Greenflex in Dark Khaki chukka boots to my slim, stylish and well-fitting Standard Deviation denim. Standard Deviation does it right when it comes to stylish denim — the brand’s Two-Part Solution allows you to try out two pairs for 15 days to nail down your perfect fit; when the time comes, you pay the discounted price of $78 per pair. Not bad, ehh? And certainly stylish for exploring Portland and heading to Ecliptic Brewing for a nice brew or two before a long flight back home.

I also dressed in laidback style with a new Bridge & Burn Basic Tee, a slim-fitting number made with a breezy cotton blend. The Heather Wine color  of the Basic Tee also played nicely off my Astorflex Greenflex in Dark Khaki chukka boots. Luckily, my essential Timex x Todd Snyder Military Watch ensured I stayed on time throughout the day.  For navigating a new city, reach for classic suede chukka boots and perhaps some favorite tunes, as I did when I plugged into stylish headphones from the Bespoke Post Vibes Box. With a busy, enjoyable and exciting weekend behind me, it was time all too soon to head hone. I appreciated Portland for its quiet atmosphere, its mix of amazing coffee, great menswear and live music, and the attention to detail in everything from food to craft beer. Is Portland “weird,” per se? It’s different than New York and Brooklyn, and that’s a great thing!

If you’ve got questions on the best things to do in Portland, drop me a note on Twitter. Follow along on Instagram for more men’s travel style tips, and check back tomorrow for a new #OOTD post.

Thanks for reading!

-Beau

See Now, Buy Now: Layer Up For Fall with the Rugged Taylor Stitch Utility Shirt

Taylor Stitch Utility Shirt

Just what rugged fall style calls for — great fabric, serious functionality and strong Taylor Stitch construction.

Let’s get one thing straight off the bat — the Taylor Stitch Utility Shirt could be the new fall menswear essential you need now. Are we still slowly but surely transitioning into the chilly depths of fall? We sure are. But the beauty of #menswear lies in being able to plan ahead — and the Taylor Stitch Utility Shirt is a great place to start. San Francisco-based Taylor Stitch consistently brings great gear to the table, season after season and month after month. Whether we’re talking winter style picks like the ridiculously rugged  Rover Jacket or pieces that are fit for year-round wear, like the Taylor Stitch Everyday Chambray Shirt, you know that you’re getting durability, quality and classic style.

Certainly, the Taylor Stitch Utility Shirt checks each of those boxes — and that’s why it’s worth considering for early fall layering and beyond. It’s the kind of shirt you could team up with a rugged henley and American-made denim on a chilly fall night, and you could also layer it reliably under a slim topcoat as the depths of winter descend upon us. Heck, you could even pack it in your bag for one last trip to the beach — should it get chilly during an evening bonfire, you’re all set. The Utility Shirt‘s versatility and rugged good looks start, as always, with excellent Taylor Stitch fabrication.

Rugged details, tough fabric and a classic Taylor Stitch fit make the Utility Shirt essential fall shopping.

The brand’s use of Merino wool featuring a newly developed Serona fiber offers everything from durability to a hint of stretch to stain resistance — that makes the Utility Shirt sound too good to be true, right? Well, just know that it’s available for a decent price (under $150!) — that’s yet another classic Taylor Stitch move to be applauded. And in the way of other design details, Taylor Stitch also gets it right, from the button chest pocket to the powder-coated aluminum buttons. Take the fall-friendly Moss Herringbone, too. It gives the Utility Shirt  an earthy tone that teams well with everything from slim black denim and classic suede chukkas to tan chinos and brown leather boots for a play on the same color family. And with the brand’s essential, tailored cut — able to be worn tucked or untucked — plus double-stitch buttons and buttonholes, you’re getting a shirt with every detail considered. Would you expect anything less from Taylor Stitch? Surely not.  Snag the Taylor Stitch Utility Shirt now while it’s around, and you’re one step closer to essential fall style.

Thanks for reading — stay stylish!

-Beau