Tag / taylor stitch

by Beau H.

Online Shopping Picks: The Best Men’s Chambray Shirts

Editor’s note: Connect with The Style Guide on Facebook for even more menswear.

It might come as a shock to you that this here blog hasn’t rounded up the best chambray shirts for men — ever, really. Now, we’ve talked about how to wear a chambray shirt for fall, and we’ve even reviewed an American-made chambray shirt from Todd Shelton — but a complete rundown of essential chambray shirts to buy now? Not so much.  With its textured cotton fabric and roots in American workwear, it’s a piece that — much like a rugged henley — has been turned into a four-season piece with the versatility to rival a classic blue Oxford.  You can thank brands like J. Crew for that, and you can thank Style Guide favorite Todd Snyder, too — his time at J. Crew helped cement, among other things, the popularity of the shirting style. Which brings us to the present day — hopefully in your neck of the woods, it’s truly and properly fall. If that’s the case, there might not be a better time to layer up a new chambray shirt. Hopefully, you’ve knocked a few pieces off your fall style wish list, but if you’re still searching for a few more staple items to fill your closet — *cough, cough* a new chambray shirt — today’s post has you covered. Chime in on the below picks, if you please, in the comments, and follow along on Instagram for more fall styling tips.

#1. Taylor Stitch Everyday Chambray Shirt — $98

Taylor Stitch

It just doesn’t get any better than the Everyday Chambray Shirt from Taylor Stitch.

As much as J. Crew has turned the chambray shirt into an essential casual (or dressy) piece for all guys, Taylor Stitch has done just as much in a short period of time. The Everyday Chambray Shirt is a stone-cold Style Guide favorite for a multitude of reasons. With a slim fit, premium Japanese chambray fabric and double needle construction, it’s a wonder that the fine folks at Huckberry can even keep this thing in stock. Wear it with slim chinos and high-top sneakers on the weekend, then pair it with brown wingtips and a navy blazer during the work week. As with most Taylor Stitch pieces, you won’t be able to stop wearing the Everyday Chambray Shirt — at least, I think so.

#2. J. Crew Slim Indigo Japanese Chambray Shirt — $88

The shirt that (arguably) started it all. Buy it now, wear it a bunch.

The shirt that (arguably) started it all. Buy it now, wear it a bunch.

Ahh yes, here we are. The shirt that spawned copycats and helped men the world over dress a bit better (if not more so). Just as with Taylor Stitch, J. Crew has perfected casual, easygoing basics  that are versatile, well-fitting and reliably able to be dressed up or down in a pinch. Made with premium Japanese chambray, this indigo chambray shirt might just be your new favorite chambray — other than the Everyday Chambray Shirt, that is. If you hang around, you can likely snag it for a steal using a J. Crew sale code. But in the meantime, it’s a nice deal for the price.

Beckett Simonon

#3. Todd Snyder Chambray Patch Pocket Shirt in Light Indigo — $168

A rich indigo color and the sort of details one would expect from a designer that specializes in rugged staples.

A rich indigo color and the sort of details one would expect from a designer that specializes in rugged staples.

It should come as no surprise that the designer who helped put J. Crew back on the map now makes a heck of a chambray shirt in his own right. The Chambray Patch Pocket Shirt is the sort of piece at which Todd Snyder excels — it mixes a dash of heritage style with rugged vibes and easy wearability. It’s the type of chambray shirt that you could reliably pair with everything from dark denim and the designer’s famed Timex x Todd Snyder Mod Watch to a classic fall blazer as you head to the office. For the price, you’ll certainly want to get a lot of wear out of it.

Frank & Oak

#4. Ben Sherman Chambray Shirt in Navy Blazer — $85 (Available via East Dane)

Simple, stylish and nicely done via Ben Sherman.

Simple, stylish and nicely done via Ben Sherman.

From the brand’s classic Harrington jackets to slim chinos, Ben Sherman specializes in classic pieces with a dash of mod, British edge.  This slim chambray shirt uses a nice medium blue color that would look right at home with slim, American-made chinos and brown chukka boots at the office, while also blending in nicely with, say, a first date ensemble.  It’s fairly priced considering the quality and history of the brand, and it’ll work just as well this coming winter under a slim cardigan as it will come spring time with your favorite pair of shorts.

#5. Gitman Vintage Chambray Oxford Shirt — $124.80 (Available via East Dane)

Gitman Vintage

Inspired by a chambray shirt and featuring classic Oxford detailing.

Are you familiar with Gitman Vintage? Maybe? Maybe not? Either way, this brand does the classics the right way — its premium shirts are infused with a dash of classic prep style and a slightly irreverent modern edge. And as it were, this chambray Oxford shirt gets a lot of things right, from the trim fit to the blue chambray color and the Oxford styling details. It’s a hybrid shirt that you can wear as you would a normal Oxford — say, with a wool tie and a herringbone blazer — or a regular ol’ chambray shirt (perhaps atop your favorite henley this season).

And, well … that’s it for the first-ever Style Guide rundown of the best men’s chambray shirts. It was admittedly pretty tough to narrow it down to just five — heck, in addition to the crisp blue Everyday Chambray Shirt, even Taylor Stitch makes a terrific grey chambray shirt. But the above picks represent quality, versatile style potential and the type of easygoing wearability that’ll work just as well this coming winter as it will when the weather warms up. There aren’t that many shirts you can layer under a slim cardigan in one season, and wear with your favorite swimsuit in the spring, but the chambray shirt is certainly one of’ ’em. Get to shopping for your new favorite chambray shirt and let me know how it goes, will ya?

Stay stylish — and thanks for reading!

-Beau

by Beau H.

#OOTD: How to Dress for Fall Travel

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

Can you believe we’re talking about fall travel — November travel, even — today on the blog? The year, and this fall season in particular, has really flown by. So, maybe you’re looking ahead toward *cue audible gasp* what to wear for Thanksgiving,  or perhaps you’re just looking ahead to what to wear when you travel next. For most of us, fall travel is a bit of a different animal than dressing for summer travel — while comfort and style are still top of mind, the temperatures are a bit colder (to say the least), and you need layers that move with you as you go. Let’s say you start in a chilly Northern city, but move through to a more temperate climate — the below bomber jacket in this #OOTD can go in your durable weekender bag as you travel. And the rest of the pieces are versatile, classic and easy to wear on the road. If that’s got you wondering what’s next, simply scroll down. If you’d like more menswear inspiration, check out The Style Guide on Facebook or check out yours truly on Twitter.

Mixing the classics - like a chambray shirt & denim -- with a comfortable bomber & travel accessories.

Mixing the classics – like a chambray shirt & denim — with a comfortable bomber & travel accessories.

The Jacket: Public Rec Crosstown Bomber Jacket, $128 — The makers of your favorite pair of everyday pants are back in a big way, namely with a heck of a wearable, comfortable and versatile bomber jacket. It’s the perfect travel layer to get you through a chilly morning and a warmer afternoon — at a very fair price, to boot.

The Shirt: Taylor Stitch Everyday Chambray Shirt in Charcoal Chambray, $118 — If you’re surprised that Taylor Stitch is the pick here, don’t be.  The Everyday Chambray is a slim, well-made four-season essential — so, perfect for fall travel.

The Denim: Flint & Tinder All-American Slim Tapered Jeans, $98 — Why go with dark blue denim here? Well, it’s another four-season essential, and this pair from Flint & Tinder is made in America with a hint of stretch.

The Sneakers: Brooks Academia Chariot Sneakers, $79.99 — From summer weekends to fall travel, the Brooks Chariot Heritage series gets it done — and the Academia is a fall-centric update with a pattern inspired by professorial fabrics.

Huckberry

The Socks: Anonymous-ism Fair Isle Crew Socks, $25 (Available via East Dane) — The Anonymous-ism brand is a sleeper hit for fans of subtly designed, well-made socks, and the neat pattern here is another fall-centric bonus.

The Watch: Timex for J. Crew Watch, $128 — J. Crew’s third-party efforts are a consistent hit, and this simple, effective and subtly stylish watch is one of ’em — it’s low-key enough to wear on the plane, then to drinks after you land.

The Weekender Bag: Sword and Plough Blue Weekender Bag, $359 — Behind every company is a great story, and behind every guy is a great weekender bag — right? The Sword and Plough team repurposes military material for its products, and does a fine job with this stylish weekender bag.

The Finishing Touch: Herschel Supply Co. Chapter Travel Kit, $40 (Available via East Dane) — Instead of hauling your toiletries around in a plastic bag, reach for a durable dopp kit — this one has served me well on trips from upstate New York to Washington, D.C.

Buck Mason - Timeless Design. Made in America.

So that closes the curtain on another #OOTD — what did ya think? In this author’s opinion, a breathable, slim-fitting bomber jacket that merges athletic inspiration and a versatile color is a can’t-miss win. And when mixed with some of your favorite pieces — we’re talking American-made denim and a slim chambray shirt — it’s a surefire travel success. The grey sneakers add both texture and comfort to the outfit, while those red patterned socks offset the outfit’s darker shades with a slight touch of color. And, you can’t really go wrong with a straightforward, stylish casual watch — that goes for your travel day, and that goes for a nice dinner afterwards. Wherever you’re headed this season and beyond, safe travels — and stay stylish!

-Beau

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by Beau H.

#OOTD: How to Style a Chambray Shirt This Season

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

Ahh, yes. The hallowed, essential chambray shirt. With its textured cotton fabric, workwear roots and both short-sleeve and long-sleeve iterations, it’s a Style Guide favorite through and through. Now, you might be thinking “Another chambray shirt, Beau? Really?” … really. While we’ve talked about how to style a chambray shirt for spring and we’ve reviewed a great Todd Shelton chambray shirt, it’s high time to circle back around to a style essential that works in all four seasons — especially fall. Those much-welcomed fall breezes certainly have taken their time showing up in NYC, but if the season is finally changing where you are, there’s no better time to style a chambray shirt. And the one we’re talking about today just might be the best out there. Folks, it’s the Taylor Stitch Everyday Chambray Shirt — a piece you might recognize from our Style Pick of the Week series — and it’s made with top-notch Japanese chambray fabric and sturdy double-needle construction. There’s no getting around it, the Everyday Chambray Shirt is the one to buy this season (well, not the only one … but perhaps the best). How exactly to style this thing? With rugged-refined #menswear essentials, of course. Read on for more.

The perfect chambray shirt, worn just the right way for a perfect season in menswear.

The perfect chambray shirt, worn just the right way for a perfect season in menswear.

The Shirt:Taylor Stitch Everyday Chambray Shirt, $118 — Well, you’ve already got a bit of the rundown, but Taylor Stitch made this site’s Approved Brands page for a reason, and this shirt is a huge part of that. With a pleasing blue color, visually interesting front-button chest pockets and the ability to be worn casually or a bit more dressed up, you don’t want to mess with the Everyday Chambray Shirt.

The Henley: Flint & Tinder Marled Long-Sleeve Henley, $62 — If you caught this site’s piece on how to style a henley for fall, you know exactly why it’s here. The mid-weight marled jersey fabric is of excellent quality, the fit is modern and the color is versatile.

The Denim: Dickies X-Series Slim-Fit 5-Pocket Denim Jean, $29.99 — Since when did Dickies start making slim denim? You’d best pay attention, and snag a pair or two for a great deal and nice comfort.
The Boots: Thursday Boots President Boot in Cognac Suede, $199 — The team at Thursday Boots hits another home run with the Cognac suede being used on a few varieties of boots this season, and the sleek President is the perfect boot pick for a rugged ensemble.
The Socks: CHUP Missouri Socks, $38 — Colder weather calls for heartier textures and a shot of seasonal pattern – the Missouri Sock is your answer.

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The Watch: Timex x Red Wing Waterbury Chronograph, $158 — There’s no question that something as tough as a Taylor Stitch chambray shirt needs a watch that stands out in rugged fashion — the Timex x Red Wing line is your best best.

The Hat: Carhartt WIP Key Ribbed Beanie, $35 (Available via East Dane) — If it’s getting chillier out, you need a hat to fight the chill. Carhartt — and even its fashion-oriented WIP line — knows a thing or two about that.
The Weekend Essential: United by Blue Trail Weekender in Olive, $97.98 — Sometimes, you need a functional, durable bag that just gets the job done; that’s where the Trail Weekender comes in.
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And in a nutshell folks, there you have it. A rugged piece like the Taylor Stitch Everyday Chambray Shirt is just the kind of ideal finishing touch for fall — it’s got hearty texture, workwear-inspired roots and sturdy construction. All those keys lend it to pairing with like-minded pieces, like a durable henley. The look is grounded with slim grey denim and sleek suede boots, and tough accessories are always a great way to go — particularly when you need to stand up to the chilly weather. The excellent thing about the Taylor Stitch Everyday Chambray Shirt is that it can be kept in your rotation year-round, as we always preach at The Style Guide. For a bit over $100, that’ll make it an essential part of many a fall #OOTD — and plenty beyond.
Snag the Everyday Chambray Shirt while it’s still around at Huckberry.

Buck Mason - Timeless Design. Made in America.

by Beau H.

Sunlit Youth: A fall weekend in Providence

Editor’s note: Click on through to check out more fall menswear posts.

Looking through the rain to Friday night's Local Natives show in Providence. 1936 Skyliner Jacket from the Eddie Bauer x Pendleton collab. Light Wash Denim Shirt by JACHS NY. 505C Denim by Levi's. Waterbury Chrono from the Timex x Red Wing Heritage collab. Glasses by Frameri.

Looking through the rain to Friday night’s Local Natives show in Providence. 1936 Skyliner Jacket from the Eddie Bauer x Pendleton collab. Light Wash Denim Shirt by JACHS NY. 505C Denim by Levi’s. Waterbury Chrono from the Timex x Red Wing Heritage collab. Glasses by Frameri.

There are certain trips — and certain moments within those trips — where time seems to slow down just a little bit. Living and working in New York City, it doesn’t happen all that often within the confines of Manhattan or Brooklyn (home of the revered Style Guide HQ, of course). But, when on those rare occasions when things do seem to slow down  a bit, it happens for me at a live show — there’s nothing like seeing songs you love unfold before your eyes. If you’re here for the menswear — but skim through the music portions of some posts — you definitely know the live music scene pops up pretty frequently on the blog. Luckily for me, a weekend trip to Providence brought with it some menswear and some great moments at a stunning show by one of my favorite bands, Silver Lake-based Local Natives. Sometimes, getting out of the city for a while — and seeing a heck of a live show — is all you need to feel rejuvenated. This weekend brought that for me, and then some. Oh, and what #menswear did I pack? Oh, just you wait — ehh? Ehh?

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The weekend jaunt north was made all the more enjoyable by a day off Friday, which gave me plenty of time to explore Providence in style. Providence has been widely touted as of late as one of the best “small cities” in America, and it was with that spirit of adventure in mind that I packed up. It all started (and will likely start on future trips) with my Sword & Plough Weekender Bag, a tough-yet-elegant piece made with heavy navy cotton canvas and American leather for a durable bag that was still easy to carry around town — all the while living up to the brand’s mission of repurposing military materials and supporting veterans in the production process. So, the Weekender Bag was definitely up to the task of my weekend adventures. Meanwhile, the pleasant-yet-breezy temps in Providence meant my JACHS NY Light Wash Denim Shirt was a comfortable Friday travel piece and still layered up nicely under the tough, heritage-inspired Eddie Bauer x Pendleton 1936 Skyliner, a two-in-one jacket that features a Pendleton wool pattern inspired by the national parks — in this case, the Badlands National Park. I did leave the jacket behind for the show at Lupo’s Heartbreak Hotel (great name, yeah?), but throughout the day, my retro-inspired Levi’s 505C Denim proved stylish and more than fitting in terms of rock concert style. I got around with the Johnston & Murphy Greer Wingtip Boot, which mixed in a durable rubber lug sole and an elegant shade of burnished brown leather. Once again, a great blend of comfort and style fit for exploring a seriously neat town — especially with my always-reliable Timex x Red Wing Waterbury Chrono.

Outside Bolt Coffee at the excellent Dean Hotel -- a neat Providence stop!

Outside Bolt Coffee at the excellent Dean Hotel — a neat Providence stop!

Where exactly did my Providence explorations take me? Well, first things first — a morning train ride definitely had me in need of a caffeine jolt (always a must when in a new city). That meant a stop at the tasty and eclectic White Electric Coffee , a neat spot dedicated to delicious organic coffee and filled with the shop’s  themed white-and-red lighting bolts throughout the space, plus vintage signage, exposed brick and delicious treats. From there, a stroll through the rain — more of a brisk walk — led me to a fantastic lunch at The Grange, purveyors of everything from delicious craft beer to standout poutine (my lunch of choice, made with seasoned fries and rich gravy). The great thing about staying near downtown Providence — as I did, AirBNB and all — means that you get the best of the best in a walkable city. Of course, a busy afternoon shooting photos and walking along the riverfront called for a coffee stop at Bolt Coffee Co., the in-house coffee shop at the well-designed, modern and sharp Dean Hotel — it was a tranquil, relaxing environment for getting a bit of work done. Oh, and it was an unexpectedly awesome spot for running into and meeting bassist Nik Ewing! That certainly doesn’t happen every day, but being able to tell someone in your favorite band how much you love their new album is pretty neat — to say the least. It was definitely a highlight of the city, if only to enjoy a quick coffee!

Buck Mason - Timeless Design. Made in America.

A day that brought with it some great exploration of an awesome Northeast city led into an incredible evening — it always seems nights fly by so fast in the run-up to a concert. From seeing Lucius in Central Park  to rocking out to ,The National at Panorama, there’s not much that can top the shows I’ve had the great fortune to see even in this  past year — except one. It was a warm  September 2013 night in Royal Oak, Mich., the first time I saw Local Natives, and the band’s powerful live performance has still stuck with me. It was engaging, energetic and beyond fun.  It was that in mind that I lined up outside Lupo’s Heartbreak Hotel for a buzzing Friday night show — again, what a name.  As I’ve written about before on The Style Guide, the band’s third album, “Sunlit Youth,”  is a stellar step forward for a quintet that’s always drawn on a variety of influences — this time around, they mix R&B touches on “Coins,” channel pop energy on “Past Lives” and call back to the darker tomes of their sophomore album, “Hummingbird,” with songs like “Mother Emanuel.” Of course, it all comes together in one fluid package that made for an amazing live show, as always.

From the blissful opener “Past Lives” through to stellar new takes on tracks like “Psycho Lovers” and the lilting “Dark Days,” they were a band in motion and on the rise. They brought incredible energy to a crowd that loved everything from their jaunty take on “Coins” to a true (personal) favorite, “Who Knows Who Cares.” Plus, more eclectic tracks like “Jellyfish” were part of a great live effort. Slightly deeper cuts like “Ceilings” also drew loud cheers from a near sellout at Lupo’s — and it’s not at every show you see a marriage proposal! Talk about a wild night. And, it nearly goes without saying that “Breakers,” the lead single off their sophomore album, also went over flawlessly. They really did bring incredible confidence and energy to the stage — this is a band that’s on the up-and-up, and sure to tour near you soon! Truly. It’s almost tough to sum up such an incredible show in only a few sentences, but t was absolutely worth the wait, worth the buzz and worth the build-up. It’s also worth another show — this coming Wednesday in NYC, in fact! Undeniably excited.

saturday-providence-photo

Just reminiscing on the amazing Local Natives show. Long Haul Jacket and Indigo Star Shirt by Taylor Stitch. Waterbury Chrono by Timex x Red Wing Heritage. Glasses by Frameri.

The breathtaking performance was next-level, a sign of a band that’s come into their own. Oh, and as energetic as it was, it had me exhausted — yet still looking forward to some stylish jaunts around Providence. It was the ideal weather to trek around the city and hang out at The Shop, an amazing coffee shop with rustic-yet-modern vibes, excellent music and delicious coffee. With a bit of rain in the forecast, Saturday was prime weather to break out my durable, tough and hard-wearing Taylor Stitch Long Haul Jacket — which you’ve previously seen in the Style Pick of the Week series. It’s a beautiful piece that mixes a pleasantly lightweight and flexible 7oz. Martexin waxed canvas with classic countryside outerwear detailing in the corduroy collar and interior cuffs. It fit perfectly over another Taylor Stitch favorite, the Jack in Indigo Star. It’s the ideal shirt for a casual Saturday — slim-fitting, able to be worn untucked and featuring subtle style touches (like the star pattern, for starters). That duo up top fit right in alongside my Dickies X-Series Slim-Fit Tapered Leg Jean; if you’re thinking that Dickies couldn’t possibly make a slim-fit jean, think again. The workwear brand is stepping up its game in a big way, and these slim-fitting jeans feature a pleasing dark wash and comfortable fabric. They were ideal for exploring more of the city with my Johnston & Murphy Karnes Captoe Boot, another durable dress boot with a rubber lug sole and, in this case, a padded wool collar — all complemented again by my classic Timex x Red Wing Waterbury Chrono.

providence-saturday-photo

Yet more coffee shop vibes at The Shop in Providence. Long Haul Jacket & Indigo Star Shirt by Taylor Stitch. Denim by Dickies. Karnes Captoe Boots by Johnston & Murphy. Waterbury Chrono by Timex x Red Wing Heritage. Glasses by Frameri.

Those pieces helped me get around the city in style, and it was the perfect day to explore Providence (even if it was Parents Weekend at Brown University). The trip drew to a close too quickly, and led into a train ride back to NYC and some birthday celebrations with my great friend (and Daily News Automotive Reporter) Kyle. As luck would have it, the same gear I wore through the day Saturday transitioned in a few choice brews at Lower East Side craft beer and cocktail institution Jimmy’s No. 43. To close out the weekend, yesterday brought with it more menswear — and more writing, to boot. As part of my work at The Manual, I swung through what should practically be a bucket-list stop for watch aficionados — the Worn & Wound Watch Fair, a global gathering of more than 30 independent watchmakers put on by the team behind the watch resource guide and online shop Worn & Wound. It featured a plethora of inspiring and dedicated watch makers, including Style Guide favorite Lum-Tec. I learned a thing or two about watches, and it was a fine display of what should become a destination for lovers of durable, stylish and well-made timepieces.

The right gear for getting around in comfort and style. Navy Peacoat by JACHS NY. Marled Long-Sleeve Henley by Flint and Tinder. Slim olive cargos courtesy of Forever21 Men. Academia Chariot Sneakers by Brooks Heritage. Brown leather watch & sunglasses by MVMT Watches.

The right gear for getting around in comfort and style. Navy Peacoat by JACHS NY. Marled Long-Sleeve Henley by Flint and Tinder. Slim olive cargos courtesy of Forever21 Men. Academia Chariot Sneakers by Brooks Heritage. Brown leather watch & sunglasses by MVMT Watches.

Oh, and my gear for the occasion? Easily wearable pieces that should be looking to pick up for yourself this fall — including the Flint and Tinder Marled Long-Sleeve Henley, made from a mid-weight marled jersey fabric. It was perfectly complemented by the JACHS NY Navy Double-Breasted Peacoat (an ideal transitional piece) topped off with a pair of Slim-Fit Cargo Pants courtesy of Forever21 Men. Don’t think you can make cargos work for you? They might be tricky at the office, but a slim pair teamed up with neutral staples — like a navy peacoat — were suited to exploring Manhattan’s High Line Park just fine. Of course, my sneakers were key in that regard and the brand-new Brooks Academia Chariot  was the perfect finishing touch. It features a sporty canvas silhouette designed to resemble the tweedy textures reminiscent of professorial garb. The combo is perfect for fall, and certainly different than your average retro runner sneaker. They were lightweight, comfortable and fit in well with some of my favorite accessories, including The 40 in Rose Gold/Brown Leather from MVMT Watches, and a sharp pair of Runaway Aviators (also from MVMT Watches — surprise!).
Frank & Oak
While my #menswear picks helped me get around in comfort and style, it certainly was a full and exhausting weekend. There’s something to be said for the opportunity to travel, see a live show, explore a new city and make some great connections with menswear aficionados — all in one weekend. Heck, the standout Local Natives show alone might have made it, but the chance to bring along some great style gear and explore a cool city was icing on the cake. I know some spots worth visiting in Providence again, I got to bring along some of my favorite picks and I got to take in a live show — can’t every weekend be that great? Until the next time I hit the road, you can follow along for menswear tips and inspiration — as always — via Instagram and the ever-expanding Twitter universe.

We’ll see you in the front row — and thanks for reading!

-Beau

Buck Mason - Timeless Design. Made in America.

by Beau H.

Style Suggestion: What to Wear to the Pumpkin Patch

 Editor’s note: Head over here to see more men’s style suggestions for all sorts of situations.

Now, as I sit here in Brooklyn and write this #menswear style suggestion for fall, there’s nary a pumpkin patch — or a rolling field — in sight. If that’s also the case for you, perhaps we can consider this simply another crisp fall weekend style suggestion. But if you do indeed consider trips to the pumpkin patch (Halloween’s coming!) or corn maze a fall ritual — as I did growing up in the Midwest — we’ve got just the set of picks for you. Granted, we’re looking at pieces that mix the premium with the rugged — these are true style upgrades, and they might be a bit much for the pumpkin patch. In that case, know that they’re still plenty wearable for a plethora of other fall activities. Oh, and if the weather is still balmy in your neck of the woods? Scroll through this warm-weather style suggestion.  Now, back to the matter at hand. Your fall explorations might seem more casual — and thus, just in need of the most comfortable clothing you can wear — but there are several opportunities to (all together now) upgrade your style. From your outerwear to your to your rugged boots, we’ve got a full rundown covered below — and then some. Follow along on Instagram daily to see how I’m attempting to transition to fall, and chime in with your own picks on Facebook.

The Outerwear: JACHS NY Navy Double-Breasted Peacoat — $185

A classic in the perfect weight and cut for fall.

A classic in the perfect weight and cut for fall.

Rather than throwing on a zip-up hoodie or a logo athletic sweatshirt, start with a navy double-breasted cotton peacoat. While it’s not quite as warm as a wool peacoat, it’s better suited to the transitional temperatures of fall — if it’s crisp, you’ve layered up with a sweater underneath that (more on that in a second…), and if it gets hot, you can carry it with you. This particular JACHS NY peacoat is stylish, trim-fitting and well-made, complete with shoulder epaulets for a bit of visual interest. You can’t ask for much more than that, truly.

The Shirt: Taylor Stitch Everyday Chambray Shirt — $118

Stylish, slim-fitting and essential for fall.

Stylish, slim-fitting and essential for fall.

Other than the sweatshirt you’re about to read about below (patience!), there might not be a better pick for a reliable, classic and stylish shirt than this stellar Taylor Stitch Everyday Chambray Shirt. It’s a four-season essential, to be sure, but it wears particularly great in the fall thanks to the slightly heightened blue color, textured fabric and modern fit (ideal for layering). Heck, you might want to wear this shirt … every day?

The Sweatshirt: Todd Snyder x Champion Pocket Sweatshirt — $98 

A classic sweatshirt, redefined for the modern man.

A classic sweatshirt, redefined for the modern man.

The sweatshirt that needs no introduction, ladies and gentlemen. The Todd Snyder x Champion Pocket Sweatshirt basically redefined the traditional crewneck sweatshirt, slimming down the fit, adding raglan sleeves and upgrading it ever so slightly with a chest pocket — oh, and making it using the quality and durability of these particular materials. Yes, that’s why it retails for nearly $100, and that’s why it’s a neat style upgrade.

Buck Mason - Timeless Design. Made in America.
The Denim: Flint & Tinder All-American Slim Tapered Jeans — $98

Your new favorite pair of fall denim, complete with a great price tag to match.

Your new favorite pair of fall denim, complete with a great price tag to match.

The All-American Slim Tapered Jean from Flint & Tinder keeps popping up on this site — check this fall weather style suggestion — and for a very good reason. It’s nay impossible to find a well-made pair of tough selvedge denim for under $100, and these jeans just might be the best of the bunch. They’re slim, they’re stylish and they’re a significant upgrade from casual sweatpants.

The Boots: Johnston & Murphy Karnes Alpine Boot — $198

Sleek, rugged and refined -- very Bond-esque, indeed.

Sleek, rugged and refined — very Bond-esque, indeed.

The heritage footwear makers at Johnston & Murphy don’t skimp on the quality or durability of their boots — particularly not a pair like the rugged, refined and stellar-looking Karnes Alpine Boot. The blend of beautiful mahogany calfskin and dark brown nubuck at the padded ankle collar is an eye-catching, yet durable combination. Make no mistake, this is a very sleek pair of hikers that actually wouldn’t look out of place at the office. Granted, they’re the sort of luxury-type boot Bond might have worn in Scotland — so if you don’t want to get them too muddy, best to go with a dependable pair of broken-in boots.

The Socks: Mr. Gray Slub Nep Colorblock Socks — $25

A bit of colorblocking and a lot of comfort, quality and style.

A bit of colorblocking and a lot of comfort, quality and style.

Every now and then, you just feel like upgrading certain essential pieces in your wardrobe — particularly your sock drawer. The Nep Colorblock Sock from Mr. Gray takes care of that upgrade in comfort and style — and you can wear ’em plenty of different places besides your next outdoor fall adventure. Don’t sleep on thick, durable American Trench Fair Isle socks, either.

The Watch: Lum-Tec Huckberry Combat B33 GMT — $498.98

Durable, rugged, refined and ready for action.

Durable, rugged, refined and ready for action.

Now, if your monthly budget or ability to pay your rent or mortgage might be compromised by buying this watch *raises hand*, keep your credit card in your wallet. If it’s a goal that’s within reach, or you simply enjoy admiring (and buying) beautiful watches, the Huckberry Combat B33 GMT might just be yours to keep. Make no mistake, this timepiece really is something else. It’s a custom-designed timepiece featuring a durable 43mm stainless steel case and a Swiss GMT quartz movement — in short, all the functionality and durability you need for a fall weekend and lugging around some pumpkins.

The Belt: Maximum Henry Slim Standard Belt — $100 (Available via East Dane)

Made by just one man, Maximum Henry's belts use excellent materials and craftsmanship.

Made by just one man, Maximum Henry’s belts use excellent materials and craftsmanship.

The hardworking team (of one!) behind Maximum Henry focuses on making simple, quality belts and leather goods the right way — in very small batches in America. That’s the way to go, and it’s why another Maximum Henry belt popped up in this recent #OOTD. It’s a style upgrade that you might not think about making until you realize this belt will simply last and last — right?

Again, if you’d rather not break out a full kit of menswear to head out this fall, there’s nothing wrong with that – and it’ll probably save you a few bucks in the long run. But if you do decide to go for it when it comes to rugged-refined fall style, the above suggestion contains plenty of pieces that’ll look just as great strolling around town thereafter — or strolling through the park, or grabbing Sunday brunch. Not bad, right? A beautiful, durable watch and an upgraded crewneck sweatshirt are the type of pieces that are enjoyable to wear — in addition to being much better-looking than average pieces. And rugged-yet-refined hikers are slightly unexpected — they’re a weekend staple, but could work in a pinch at the office, too. You can’t beat versatility like that for under $200. And the rest of the way, it certainly pays to support made-in-America artisans. If you have questions, suggestions or additions, let me know on Twitter — will ya??

Happy pumpkin-picking!

-Beau

by Beau H.

#OOTD: How to Wear a Flannel Shirt for Fall

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

It’s been a few weeks since we had a proper #OOTD here on The Style Guide, so we’re getting back to business today. As fall weather rolls into your neck of the woods, perhaps you’ve been breaking out some of your favorite style essentials for the season. It’s a time much-loved around Style Guide HQ for that very reason — and your list of seasonal essentials should definitely include a flannel shirt. Now, cotton flannel fabric in a plaid pattern carries with it a bit of a negative stigma — it was such a trendy staple for years that it might seem played out. But there are a few key ways you can break out a flannel shirt without looking as if you’re heading off to chop wood. The key starts, as always, with the fit of your shirt. Take that classic flannel fabric, slim it down (or size down) and pair it with a decidedly modern bomber jacket. Oh, that’s right — that’s what the below #OOTD is doing. Take a look below, follow your author on Instagram and follow The Style Guide on Facebook for your daily prescribed dose of #menswear.

Not too trendy, not too boring -- just right. A modern flannel shirt paired with other modern staples.

Not too trendy, not too boring — just right. A modern flannel shirt paired with other modern staples.

The Flannel Shirt: Eddie Bauer Favorite Flannel Shirt, $49.99 — There are some brands you don’t mess with when it comes to flannel. Eddie Bauer’s been making these for years, and they’re comfortable, easily wearable and — here’s the key — slightly visually different in an engaging Baltic plaid pattern. Size down for a slightly trimmer fit, and wear it a ton.

The Bomber Jacket: Beckett Simonon Cole Bomber Jacket, $295 — The biggest key to making this look more modern than lumberjack? A beautiful calfskin suede bomber jacket in a trim fit. Treat this piece with care (I.e. Avoid the rain) and it should last through many seasons to come.

The Denim: Cheap Monday Sonic Denim (Available via East Dane), $90 — Learn more about a denim brand that could be a new favorite — we’re talking classic washes, nice fits and agreeable price points for the quality.

The Boots: Chippewa Original 6-Inch Service Boot in Cordovan, $269.98 — Does it get any better than ridiculously durable Chippewa boots, especially in Cordovan? Hardly. These boots are the rugged complement to the slick bomber jacket — you’re wearing a flannel shirt, after all.

The Socks: American Trench Pima Cotton Houndstooth Socks, $18.98 — Textured socks in this particular color should play nicely off the deeper blue of the plaid flannel shirt — the American-made quality doesn’t hurt, either.

The Watch: Timex for J. Crew Andros Watch, $118 — J. Crew does many things quite well, and a few things very well — its collaborations with third-party partners rank high on that list.

The Belt: Rag & Bone Rugged Brass Belt. $150 (Available via East Dane) — Is $150 a lot for a belt? It certainly is. But Rag & Bone does essential basics without fuss — this durable belt falls within that category neatly.

The Everyday Carry: Taylor Stitch Raw Brass Keyhook, $32 — Goods from Taylor Stitch — from the brand’s Everyday Chambray Shirt to this keyhook — are as well-made as can be. Carry this thing everywhere, and never lose your keys again, yeah?

Again, the key with breaking out a flannel shirt revolves around picking a more unique color than the tried-and-true red-and-black combination, along with a slimmer fit. Of course, a sharp suede bomber jacket helps matters out, as do simple, clean accessories like a NATO strap watch and premium socks (yes, the socks do make a difference). Some of the picks are definitely pricey, but as we always say, they can serve as a nice reward, and a reminder of the quality you get when you pay a bit (or a lot) extra for everyday goods. Got any questions on this #OOTD? Or would you swap in a few different brands? Hit me up on Twitter.
Check back tomorrow for another fall-centric style suggestion — and until then…
Stay stylish,
-Beau

 

by Beau H.

#OOTD: How to Dress for a Weekend Coffee Date

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

The more you get into menswear and the art of dressing well, the more you realize how many situations it can help you through — that’s something I’m still learning everyday. That is to say, everything from your morning coffee run to what to wear to the gym are chances to extend and improve your personal sense of style (says the guy who wears old college tees to work out sometimes). The smallest situations and style details really do help set you apart, and that’s the approach we’re taking in today’s #OOTD. It’s a pretty specific situation — perhaps date isn’t the right word, but know that even when dashing out to grab coffee, it’s still a chance to look put-together. That goes for whether you’re meeting a friend, a date, your dog, your cat … you get the picture. And, it gives you an excuse to work more excellent #menswear into your rotation — that’s what we do at The Style Guide, folks. Plus, assuming it’s well and truly fall weather, it’s a nice chance to break out a few extra casual layers (or, you could just stick with that Taylor Stitch chambray shirt in the heat) and a great watch. There’s plenty more in store — read on below, and get more daily style inspiration via Instagram.

ootd-weekend-coffeeThe Overshirt: Bridge and Burn Flint Overshirt, $182 — It’s a shirt! It’s a jacket! It’s a shirt-jacket, and with a neat cotton flannel lining and a rich indigo dye, it’s just the right weight to throw during a crisp Saturday or Sunday morning.

The Sweatshirt: Todd Snyder x Champion Pocket Sweatshirt (Available via East Dane), $98 — This sweatshirt is a stone-cold classic — add it into the essential menswear lexicon for the well-dressed guy. It’s clean, classic and again, a perfect layering weight for fall. Snag it here.

The Shirt: Taylor Stitch Everyday Chambray Shirt, $118 — Whether you go with white or classic blue, the Taylor Stitch Everyday Chambray Shirt is another absolute essential.

The Chinos: Levi’s Made & Crafted Slim Fit Chinos (Available via East Dane), $178 — These Levi’s Made & Crafted chinos are indeed pricey, but well-made, easily wearable for casual situations and a nice weekend upgrade from denim (although that works here, too).

The Sneakers: SeaVees Huckberry Chukka, $98 — Since you’re wearing a classic chambray shirt and chinos, it’s OK to go a bit more casual with these durable sneakers — the perfect weight, color and cut for fall.

The Socks: Anonymous-ism 5-Color Crew Mix Socks (Available via East Dane), $25 — Anonymous-ism socks are some of the best money can buy — your feet will thank you for this style splurge.

The Watch: KOMONO Walther Cognac, $179.95  — The Walther is the latest release from a new line being done by KOMONO — the brand’s Crafted Collection features a higher price point and premium materials, plus excellent design. Read a full KOMONO product review here.

The Belt: Anderson’s Stretch Woven Grey Belt, $116.98 — As with other Anderson’s belts, this one is going to cost you — but you get a belt that’s durable, comfortable and on-point stylistically (the texture fits right in with the colder climes of fall).

There are certain style moves that just work when it comes down to it — grabbing a stylish chambray shirt will serve you well, as will layering up with a Todd Snyder x Champion crewneck sweater. The slim-fit chinos and SeaVees sneakers blend sporty and tailored style, and premium finishing touches like those Anonymous-ism socks truly make a world of difference — and a heck of an impression, while we’re at it. The situation is surely different than dressing for a first date, but it’s no less important to look your best — even if you’re just relaxing over coffee with your dog, or your cat, or a book. Got questions, suggestions, additions or deletions? Drop me a line on Twitter.

Stay stylish,

-Beau

Buck Mason - Timeless Design. Made in America.

by Beau H.

Style Suggestion: How to Dress for Fall Weather

Editor’s note: For a full set of style suggestions for fall, click here.

We’re slowly (but surely) creeping toward fall — it seems like that’s been the case for a couple of weeks here at The Style Guide, but it’s certainly no more true than right now. Dressing for football season has started, there’s a bunch of great new music out — that signals tons of fall tours and rock concert style — and it’s high time to, well, get with the times. So, grab your fall style wish list and get hip to the scene. Even if it takes a while to get chilly, you’ll still want to have the proper gear on hand when it does. I know temperatures have been high here in NYC, but I’m definitely anxiously awaiting fall. For all of you loyal Style Guide readers (I know you’re out there), it signifies a really fun time of year in terms of menswear. If you’re one who tends to get sick of the oppressive heat — and even tires of heading to the beach — it can be a welcome change of pace to throw on heavier layers and incorporate durable texture into your #menswear ensemble again. And being able to play around with deep fall colors and textures — as some of the picks do below — is another reliable signifier that the season is changing. Everywhere you look, it’s about that time. Wthout further ado, here’s a look at how to dress for fall. Catch more style tips daily on the ‘Gram or Twitter, and leave any thoughts on this look in the comments.

The Jacket: Old Navy Canvas Coat — $69.94

Not as heavy as a winter parka, not as lightweight as a spring jacket -- hence, a great fall coat.

Not as heavy as a winter parka, not as lightweight as a spring jacket — hence, a great fall coat.

You feel a crisp breeze in the air, but a lightweight spring jacket won’t cut — and it’s not heavy winter topcoat time, either. What’s your reliable go-between? A cotton canvas coat in a rich shade that’s perfectly primed for fall. Although the interior of this jacket is lined with a neat striped cotton, it should prove reliable and not too heavy for layering. Details like the front patch pockets call to mind workwear of days past, and the rich Bandolier Brown color is going to handsomely offset the blues in the rest of this ensemble (although we don’t want to give too much away yet).

The Shirt: Taylor Stitch Everyday Chambray Shirt — $104.98

Beautifully made, able to withstand anything and certainly able to make that transition to fall.

Beautifully made, able to withstand anything and certainly able to make that transition to fall.

Were you expecting something other than a stellar Taylor Stitch chambray shirt here? I hope not, because I’d bet you’re disappointed right about now. The brand takes the same attention to detail that’s made its Standard Issue Chinos beloved by The Style Guide, and applies that process to a heck of a chambray shirt. Featuring sturdy double-needle construction, a midweight 7oz. chambray fabric and a fit that’s modern yet mobile, it’s the ideal contrast to that handsome brown jacket. Plus, it’s got the type of classic looks and styling potential that’ll work the rest of the year, too.

The Denim: Flint & Tinder All-American Slim Tapered Jeans — $98

New denim from a menswear line that gets essential fall basics right.

New denim from a menswear line that gets essential fall basics right.

The brand that produces your favorite set of American-made boxer briefs and other stellar fall menswear delivers again with new denim that’s part of its deepest product offering to date. For fans of versatile, timeless style, that’s very much a positive. These jeans are every bit an essential pair of fall denim, made from 12oz. Cone Mills fabric and featuring one percent of stretch  — that touch will make it easier to wear ’em on fall hikes or walks in the park. The slim fit is a must-have these days, although the brand’s waist sizing does go up to 40. Grab one pair of these, wear the heck out of them and watch them tell the story of a great fall season.

The Boots: JackThreads Kimbo Chelsea Boot in Brown Calf Leather — $110

Part of a new set of footwear offered from the excellent E-commerce retailer.

Part of a new set of footwear offered from the excellent E-commerce retailer.

Since when does JackThreads make footwear? Since this season, that’s when. It’s part of the brand’s mission to expand on its stellar menswear line and take up some serious real estate in your closet. When they’re able to churn out crisp pieces like these refined Chelsea boots for just a shade over $100, that’s very agreeable. A stylish Chelsea boot works nearly any time of year, yet they seem particularly fitting for fall. They’re not nearly as clunky as some thick winter boots, and they feel especially sleek alongside slim denim and a chambray shirt (some stylish leather chukka boots could also work here, though).

The Socks: Mack Weldon Everyday Striped Socks — $14.50

Easygoing socks for daily wear -- in a color that plays along nicely with the rest of this outfit.

Easygoing socks for daily wear — in a color that plays along nicely with the rest of this outfit.

The folks at Mack Weldon are consistently churning out everyday basics that’ll have you covered from the ground up, from its Vesper Polo to pieces like its Merino Long-Sleeve Tee, and if you read this blog as much as I think you should, you’re well-acquainted with those pieces (wink, wink). So, it only makes sense that you should round out your wardrobe with some striped Mack Weldon socks that add a nice bit of color contrast to the deep blues and browns of this outfit. Ya feel me?

The Watch: MVMT Watches The 40 in Rose Gold/Brown Leather — $120

A stunner of a watch for a stunningly low price.

A stunner of a watch for a stunningly low price.

Are you familiar with MVMT Watches? If not, you definitely should be. That is, if you’re a fan of stylish, affordable eye-catching watches — and who isn’t? There are some watches that are so refined in their design, you can wear them more casually — that’s certainly the case with this MVMT Watches timepiece, crafted from a rich brown leather-brown dial-rose gold case combo that’s a heck of a looker. It’s a way to offset some of the more rugged pieces in this outfit, like the canvas coat and chambray shirt. More importantly, it’s dressy enough to wear later on this season with, dare I say, the Taylor Stitch Telegraph Suit?

The Belt: J. Crew Suede Belt — $55

Texture in the form of a refined belt for the season.

Texture in the form of a refined belt for the season.

This suede belt first made an appearance in this site’s suggestion on how to dress for a football game, and it’s back here and adding a change of pace to this outfit in the process. The look is already quite heavy on rugged style, to be sure, so it’s fitting that a suede belt comes into play. Fall is the perfect time to try out texture where you might not do so normally, and for more than $50, you better get a lot of wear out of this belt to justify the initial price (although this particular pick is suede, a handsome leather belt like the Tanner Goods Classic Belt would work, too).

The Sunglasses: MVMT Watches Runaway Sunglasses — $75

Equal parts retro cool and affordable style from a watch maker who knows how that stuff works.

Equal parts retro cool and affordable style from a watch maker who knows how that stuff works.

Wait a second — MVMT Watches does sunglasses? Yes, they sure do. And why do we have sunglasses in this post? Well, as this is transitional style and all, it’s still going to be a bit sunny out there most days, whether you’re taking a hike through a park, heading to a bar crawl or taking in that football game. These sunglasses aren’t too precious to take a beating, and more importantly, they’ve got a distinct air of retro cool about them. Just like the watch, they’re perfect to pair with everything from that Taylor Stitch chambray shirt to … wait for it… the decidedly modern Taylor Stitch Telegraph Suit.

And there you have it, folks — pick up one, all (or heck, none?) of the above items and prep for fall in style. As we always aim for at this #menswear blog, reaching for pieces that are going to have your back the rest of the year is a solid bet no matter the season. And if given the chance to wear a durable chambray shirt with a crisp canvas coat, take it. The combo is just the right amount of rugged with venturing too far off the beaten path, and pieces like slim, dark denim and brown leather Chelsea boots keep things modern. A refined watch and cool-as-heck sunglasses are items every guy needs, yet not every guy has — except you. And you can never go wrong with accessories from staple players like Mack Weldon and J. Crew. Head-to-toe, there might not be a better time to be a style fan — and that’s what makes fall menswear so great.

What’s your take on this ensemble? Have you picked up any of these pieces?

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Taylor Stitch Crater Shirt

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

A rugged, Portuguese-made shirt from a brand that consistently delivers on style essentials.

A rugged, Portuguese-made shirt from a brand that consistently delivers on style essentials.

There are brands that almost make it ridiculously easy to get all your shopping done in one place — if you read The Style Guide, you know that Taylor Stitch is definitely one such brand.  It seems that just about anything you need on the #menswear front can be fulfilled by the brand — that goes for things like essential chambray shirting, classic men’s chinos made from durable fabric, and a drool-worthy leather jacket or two, and it’s particularly evident during times best suited to rugged gear (like fall). If you thought you couldn’t possibly need another reason to shop at Taylor Stitch, think again. In this instance, gentlemen (and ladies), the Crater Shirt is that very reason — and it’s a heck of a good one. It’s available for pre-order right now on the brand’s Web site for the very reasonable price of $98 — that means you should hop on  ordering one just as soon as you can. Clearly, fans of the brand got the memo — the Navy & Charcoal Plaid version seen here has been funded to the tune 146 percent. Now, what are you getting for that price? Starting with the brushed Portuguese flannel and rolling through to small details like the flap chest pocket and Japanese Urea cat’s eye buttons,  a heck of a shirt is what you’re getting. It plays right into the brand’s focus on producing timeless pieces that quickly turn into hard-wearing wardrobe staples. If you’ve checked out something as seemingly straightforward as the brand’s Brushed White Oxford, then you know that sentiment to be true. No matter the style, you’re getting the best they’ve got to offer. With the Crater Shirt, that means you’re also getting to pick between two color choices practically made for late fall, early winter and beyond.

The inverse of the option seen at the top of the page -- yet still just as stylish and versatile.

The reverse of the option seen at the top of the page — a Charcoal & Navy Plaid pattern that’s still just as stylish and versatile.


Seriously, you can’t go wrong with either the Navy & Charcoal Plaid  seen at the very top of the page, or the Charcoal & Navy Plaid pattern seen above. Still with me? Hopefully. Either way, you’re getting a durable, modern-fitting flannel shirt that’s heavy enough to wear as a shirt-jacket over a long-sleeve merino tee, comfortable enough to wear on its own, and stylish enough to fit in at the office with slim chinos — or atop slim raw denim at your favorite weekend watering hole. By pre-ordering now, you’re setting yourself up for a heck of a stylish November (that’s when the shirt ships out). It’s a hallmark of the brand that the style is still one you could easily wear with a variety of looks — that goes for the snowy depths of January just as much as it does for crisp November days. If it sounds strange to think that far ahead, think of this as a long-term investment that’s well worth your while. Heck, if the Crater Shirt is anything like the brand’s lauded Yosemite Shirt, it’s absolutely a keeper. For all of us fans of Taylor Stitch, that’s excellent news indeed. What are you waiting for? Head to the Taylor Stitch site to pre-order the Crater Shirt now (that’s not a request!).

If you do pre-order it, let me know on Twitter — and stay stylish in the meantime,

-Beau
Buck Mason - Timeless Design. Made in America.

 

by Beau H.

Rolling the dice: Heading West for Liberty Fairs Las Vegas

Editor’s note: To recap the last time I hit the road, click here.

A hot and sunny business trip to Las Vegas. Ivy Blazer by Grayers. Pocket square by J. Crew. Denim Shirt by JackThreads. Slim Stone Chinos by Taylor Stitch. Chukkas by Timberland. Mod Watch by Timex x Todd Snyder.

A hot and sunny business trip to Las Vegas. Ivy Blazer by Grayers. Pocket square by J. Crew. Denim Shirt by JackThreads. Slim Stone Chinos by Taylor Stitch. Chukkas by Timberland. Mod Watch by Timex x Todd Snyder.

Out of all the things that excite me about New York City and the chance to work in the menswear industry, there are certain parts of the job that just can’t be beat. Although I certainly hope to do a lot more, I’m pretty thankful and lucky right now that I get the chance to travel for my day job, and blog about that travel, at the same time. Such was the case these past four days , as I headed west to Liberty Fairs in Las Vegas; it’s a twice-yearly men’s fashion trade show that makes stops in NYC and Las Vegas, showcasing what’s new and next in the industry. That means everyone from fashion magazine editors to publishers, bloggers and sales representatives are gathered under one massive roof to scope out seasonal trends, post relentlessly on Instagram and of course, do business — everything from socks to shoes to outerwear is on display by brand. It’s a busy, hectic time, which didn’t leave much opportunity to sight-see. Although I experienced a bit of the bustle during New York Fashion Week: Men’s, hitting the road to travel and check out Liberty Fairs in a city like Las Vegas was another animal entirely. As always, that’s why I hauled my favorite #menswear essentials with me.

Travel essentials fit for Vegas. Voyager Waxed Weekender by Owen & Fred. T-shirt by Public Rec Apparel. Capital Shorts by OLIVERS Apparel. Adventure Log by Word Notebooks. Mod Watch by Timex x Todd Snyder. Sunglasses by Steven Alan Optical. Belt by J. Crew. Lanyard by Tanner Goods.

Travel essentials fit for Vegas. Voyager Waxed Weekender by Owen & Fred. T-shirt by Public Rec Apparel. Capital Shorts by OLIVERS Apparel. Adventure Log by Word Notebooks. Mod Watch by Timex x Todd Snyder. Sunglasses by Steven Alan Optical. Belt by J. Crew. Lanyard by Tanner Goods.

As I’ve been on the road a lot lately, my durable, rugged Owen & Fred Voyager Waxed Weekender has gotten a lot of work — and for good reason. If you don’t have a stylish weekender bag, and you’ve instead been relying on an old suitcase or a gym bag, making the switch is a mighty good investment. Unlike a recent trip to Michigan for a bachelor party, Las Vegas presented quite the different set of challenges — that would be the extreme heat, of course.  Standard, sweat-wicking materials just wouldn’t do, though. With style in mind, I was happy to test out a new T-shirt from Public Rec Apparel. Known for its All Day Every Day Pant, the brand recently launched a super-soft, super-comfortable and super-durable T-shirt. The tee is made with a remarkable sweat-wicking fabric blend in a  silhouette that still looks smart on its own or under a blazer — you can’t say that about your standard gym wear.  And that tee was complemented nicely another staple that merges athletic performance materials with a tailored silhouette. Yes, the OLIVERS Apparel Capital Short was just the right pair to wear from New York and right into the Vegas heat — the shorts feature a nylon-spandex blend & four-way stretch, yet fit and looks like a pair of slim chino shorts. Those two pieces kept me comfortable, which was crucial for a long travel day.

A Monday of meetings and menswear. Pocket Tee by Steven Alan. 505C Jeans by Levi's. Ivy Blazer by Grayers. Mod Watch by Timex x Todd Snyder. Chukkas by Timberland. Striped socks via the latest SprezzaBox. Notebook by Word Notebooks.

A Monday of meetings and menswear. Pocket Tee by Steven Alan. 505C Jeans by Levi’s. Ivy Blazer by Grayers. Mod Watch by Timex x Todd Snyder. Chukkas by Timberland. Striped socks via the latest SprezzaBox. Notebook by Word Notebooks.

With my accommodations all set and a busy slate of trade show appointments locked in, it was time to hit the ground running on Monday. Throughout the course of a busy two days, it was excellent to be able to catch up with some great blogger friends like Leo of Levitate Style and Danielle of She’s A Gent. The duo was among a group participating in The Studios at Liberty Fairs, a partnership giving creatives the chance to create content — everything from photos to videos, portraits and social media posts — with brands and fellow influencers across three very busy days at the trade show. So given the need to look camera-ready, I tried to rise to the occasion while fighting the heat. A soft Steven Alan pocket tee was just the ticket in that regard — especially when paired with my Grayers Ivy Blazer, a casual linen-cotton jacket with unique patch-button pockets and a casual feel. If you’re looking for a way to dress down your summer blazer, you can’t go wrong with a garment-dyed tee. The combo helped me move in style around the trade show, as did a pair of sharp-yet-edgy Levi’s 505C Jeans, made with a hint of stretch and featuring a faded grey-black wash. They’re a slightly cooler take (figuratively and literally) on heavy dark denim and a blazer, particularly when moving around a lot. I finished off the combination with a pair of rugged Timberland leather chukka boots and my ever-dependable Timex x Todd Snyder Mod Watch, a frequent travel companion and just one of a few stunning watches from the Timex x Todd Snyder partnership.

With Day 1 in the books, it was a quick turnaround for another busy day at Sands Expo at The Venetian scoping out the bustling (and hustling) crowd of #menswear aficionados. Throughout the day, I checked out the wares on display from perennial Style Guide favorites like Red Wing Heritage and (potential) soon-to-be favorites like Hudson Shoes.  It was a great mix of brands, including everyone from accessories companies like Herschel Supply Co. to sock brands like Happy Socks. All the while, I again took on the day — and the heat — in style. I stuck with some of my favorite style essentials, like my JackThreads Denim Shirt (a very wearable shirt no matter the season). I complemented that with my Taylor Stitch Slim Stone Chinos — they’re unbeatable for the price and quality.  And when you’ve got versatile staples like those two pieces, stylish Steven Alan sunglasses and sturdy leather chukka boots are a nice finishing touch (the pair seen here is from Timberland — you can snag a similar style from Thursday Boots for a nice value).  On the accessories front, my ever-reliable Timex x Todd Snyder Mod Watch was the perfect timepiece for the occasion — it goes with just about everything thanks to the crisp retro dial and grey NATO strap. For being on time to various meetings and catching up with friends (all on the job), it helped keep me in line. That outfit combination worked well for the evening, too — it’s not every day you get the chance to attend a party thrown by the Hearst and Esquire teams (yes, that Esquire). Luckily, my smart-casual combination was able to take me from a day on the trade show floor to enjoying some delicious cocktails without missing a beat (that’s what we’re all about here at The Style Guide).

A comfortable, casual and crisp travel outfit. Polo by Life/After/Denim. Warren Denim by Mott & Bow. Chariot Runner Sneakers by Mott & Bow. Steno Book by Field Notes Brand. Waterbury Chrono by Timex x Red Wing Heritage. Slim Mailbag by Satchel & Page.

A comfortable, casual and crisp travel outfit. Polo by Life/After/Denim. Warren Denim by Mott & Bow. Chariot Runner Sneakers by Brooks Heritage. Waterbury Chrono by Timex x Red Wing Heritage. Steno Book by Field Notes Brand. Mailbag by Satchel & Page.

Sadly, my time at Liberty Fairs came to an end all too quickly — today called for a flight back to NYC. For one last push through the heat of Vegas, I grabbed the aptly named Marco Polo from Life/After/Denim. It blends a modern fit with a garment-washed look and feel, plus an open collar (one featuring no buttons). The overall effect is breezy and casual, but it’s one that still looks put-together for a cross-country flight when teamed with the ever-stylish Slim Warren Denim from Mott & Bow. For only about $20 more than what the brand normally charges, you’re getting a well-fitting pair of Italian-made denim — they were the perfect complement to my lightweight Brooks Heritage Chariot Runners in color and silhouette. Throughout the day, kept track of my flight time with my Timex x Red Wing Waterbury Chrono and chronicled my adventures with my handy Word Notebooks Adventure Log — both of which you should bring along for a weekend getaway.

As great of a time as it was in Las Vegas, it was even better to reconnect with great friends and fellow bloggers — plus, some terrific brands you’ll (hopefully) see a lot more of here and on my Instagram in the coming months. Forging partnerships and featuring great brands and products is terrific, but meeting great people in a like-minded environment is even better.  Even though it’s been a heck of a busy week so far — and it’s only Wednesday (!) — my travels aren’t quite done yet. We’re looking at one day back in NYC before I hit the road on Friday to head back to my hometown of Mason, Michigan for my great friend Andy’s wedding. Seeing my friends for his bachelor weekend in Grand Rapids was an absolute blast just a few weeks ago, so this upcoming trip is bound to be just as incredible (even if it’ll be powered by lots and lots of coffee). If you’ve got menswear musings or questions on what to wear for your next Las Vegas trip, shoot me a tweet on Twitter or follow along on the daily via Instagram.

Look for the Friday Read and Style Pick later this week, and swing back through the blog on Monday for yet another Michigan trip recap — stay stylish!

-Beau
Buck Mason - Timeless Design. Made in America.