Tag / thanksgiving

by Beau H.

#OOTD: Here’s What to Wear For Thanksgiving This Year — At Home or On the Road

My friends, as you’ve all probably guessed, this year’s Thanksgiving is going to look quite a bit different. What once might have been a large, cross-family holiday gathering is going to be quite slimmed down, all because of, well … we all know why. That’s a major bummer, to say the very least — and perhaps it’s slimmed down your travel plans even more. So, how to dress for Thanksgiving this year? Things could either be plenty casual at home, or else safely gathered with a small group across town, or perhaps celebrated remotely — and I’ll tell you what, it’s still an occasion to (safely) celebrate.

Now that we’ve set the tone, here’s what you’re wearing. Because it’s likely cold out (or at least breezy at night), a rugged, winterized denim jacket is standing in for a blazer this year. From there, casual picks like a classic flannel shirt and the timeless, comfortable Flint and Tinder 365 Pants step right up. Leave the fancy dress shoes at home, grab some tough FRYE leather boots and the the best duffel bag for a weekend getaway (if you’re taking a quick drive out of town), then pour up a dram of The Macallan whiskey. There’s still time to prepare and time to celebrate (again, safely!), and this ensemble will get you heading in the right direction in no time.

The right accessories for a casual Thanksgiving — at home or on the road.

  • The Jacket: Line of Trade Montana Winterized Denim Jacket, $140 — Keep it casual and rugged at home and on the road with a winterized denim jacket from Bespoke Post. Take it from me: This is one of the best denim jackets you can snap up now (and wear even as it gets colder).
  • The Shirt: Gitman Vintage Cotton Tweed Check Shirt, $220 — This shirt might be tricky to pull off in a warmer climate (crank up the A/C!), but to me, this classic flannel shirt screams instantly iconic Thanksgiving style. Even if you’re spending the day at home, it pays off to look good, right?
  • The Pants: Flint and Tinder 365 Pants, $98 — An ever-reliable pick-up from Huckberry, the famed Flint and Tinder 365 Pants are some of the best pants for the holidays, what with plenty of comfort and stretch built right in (note that they’re available in Slim and Straight fits).
  • The Boots: FRYE Bowery Moc Lace-Up Boots, $358 — Invest in some of the best leather boots right now, then be rewarded as you wear ’em all through the holidays (snowy weather included). When you need to slip them off, stylish socks come into play (more on that below, of course).
  • The Watch: Timex + Todd Snyder Art Deco Milano Watch, $128 — Yes indeed, we’re going with one of the best leather watches on the market here from Timex + Todd Snyder, one that’s both dressy and yet laidback enough to wear with a denim jacket. It’s sure to draw compliments from anyone you encounter this Thanksgiving.
  • The Belt: Red Wing Heritage Pioneer Belt, $89 — To wear with your FRYE leather boots, get a rugged leather belt that’s just sharp enough for the occasion.
  • The Socks: American Trench Color Pop Socks, $19.50 — You can always slide into slippers if you’re at home, but if not, you’re going to want some stylish socks that are in good shape (no holes!). These new American Trench socks are cool, comfortable and effective.
  • The Grooming Must-Have:Huron Face Lotion, $15 — The holidays can be rough on your face, what with dry, blustery air and an abundance of desserts (and beverages). Combat that with some of the best face lotion from Huron.
  • The Getaway Bag: Boarding Pass NYC “Work Hard, Play Hard” Duffel, $79 — Before you hit the road, stock up on the best duffel bag for a weekend getaway. Be sure to use the code BEAUKNOWS to get $10 off any purchase over $70 (note the price of this bag!).
  • The Holiday Sipper: The Macallan Double Cask 12 Years Old, $29.99 via Drizly — Get a surprisingly affordable deal on a refined whiskey for the holidays, a fine sipping Scotch that could be a perfect host gift (or a sipper for yourself at home).

As I said, Thanksgiving will be plenty different this year, but again, that’s no excuse to get sloppy. To wit: That Line of Trade denim jacket is as cool and functional a blazer replacement as you’re apt to find, and it wears surprisingly well atop a classic flannel shirt when the weather takes a turn for the worse. It’s all held together by some of the best pants for the holidays, a casual pair from Huckberry with just enough polish and stretch to meet the varied demands of the day.

Naturally, a pair of the best leather boots is a fall must-have — no matter what, and especially if you’ve got to dash through some inclement weather to fill up at your local brewery. The combination all plays well with one of the best leather watches from a reliable standby brand in Timex + Todd Snyder. Your accessories are easily on-point, thanks to American Trench socks and a rugged leather belt, but lest we forget, you’ve got to keep your face in shape with some of the best face lotion (it’s the little things, folks). Even if just a quick getaway is in the works, be sure to A) Wear a mask and B) pack the best duffel bag for a weekend getaway from Boarding Pass NYC (remember that discount code, BEAUKNOWS, on orders over $70!). Last but assuredly not least? Well, with all of that in mind, pour yourself (or at least gift your host with) The Macallan whiskey to celebrate the day responsibly. Cheers, my friends.

by Beau H.

The List: Shop These Thanskgiving Menswear Deals to Get Ready for Winter

We’re getting you ready for Thanksgiving (and beyond!) with a cozy, weekend-ready sweater.

Looking for stylish gear to upgrade your Thanksgiving? Or your fall and winter wardrobe in general? It’s all taken care of in today’s edition of The List. Whether you find yourself prepping for a weekend of hosting or a weekend of holiday travel, you need to look good (and likely stay warm) while you’re at it. That’s where men’s style essentials like the Howlin Birth of the Cool Sweater come into play. Timeless, essential, perfect for Thanksgiving and perfect for Black Friday — and every other winter style scenario upcoming. Prepare accordingly, enjoy the week — oh, and happy shopping!
Howlin Birth of the Cool Sweater — $170

Classic, understated & ready for winter layering.

You know those cozy, stylish sweaters your grandpa always wore around the holiday season? Like at Thanksgiving? Well, this rugged winter sweater from Howlin is your own version of that.
Deus Ex Machina Smart Shirt — $114

Nothing wrong with an understated, subtly stylish shirt for the season.

Able to be worn with a tan herringbone blazer & classic corduroy pants for a more formal Thanksgiving, this stylish fall shirt also does well when worn with perfectly faded denim for an afternoon of football viewing & turkey sandwiches (yep!).
Quoddy Wabanaki Chukka — $270

These chukka boots have “Thanksgiving weekend”‘ written all over ’em.

Y’know the trusty, classic chukka boots you’ve likely got in your closet for long holiday weekends? These are that pair.
Taylor Stitch Long Haul Jacket in Wool Beach Cloth — $178

The Long Haul Jacket you know and love, done up in a beautiful cold-weather fabric.

The Taylor Stitch Long Haul Jacket is a personal favorite for the way it blends rugged style and innovative design — like the Wool Beach Cloth fabric here. Layer it with a classic sweater for winter (after it pre-funds, that is).
Timex Archive Waterbury United Watch — $120

A watch that nods to the past and yet looks decidedly stylish in the present.

In short, this Timex Archive watch is dependable, rugged and able to pair visually with more textured fall and winter layers for Thanksgiving & beyond (like your favorite flannel shirt and dark indigo jeans).
Cavalier Portable Speaker — $254.98

One of the best ways to take in the sounds of your favorite band — offered in a stylish package, too.

I’m all for upgrading your home or apartment in accordance with your aesthetic — and the Cavalier Portable Speaker is assuredly a stylish home audio upgrade for the holidays.
Naked Grouse Blended Scotch Whiskey — About $33

A truly excellent whiskey that I can guarantee is different than anything in your beverage cart right now.

This time of year calls for something a little more rich, distinctive and cold weather-friendly — and when you don’t fancy sipping on a porter, there’s Naked Grouse. The perfect companion to a great book, a roaring fire and some casual Thanksgiving weekend essentials.
Bespoke Post Ember Box — $45 (When Signing Up for Bespoke Post)

The essentials to fuel an outdoor weekend adventure.

Does your Thanksgiving entail a rugged outdoor adventure or tradition of some sort? Grab the Bespoke Post Ember Box in advance.
Faherty Brand Slub Cotton Pullover — $114

Give the pullover another try with this laidback layering move.

The casual, cool and laidback fall and winter weekend piece that’s going to layer with ease over a classic chambray shirt or Oxford shirt.
Duck Camp Midweight Shirt — $79.98

The durable, adventure-ready shirt to wear this holiday weekend.

You surely need an array of rugged, tough shirts in your winter wardrobe — for layering over a cozy henley or a thermal shirt on a chilly holiday weekend, the Duck Camp Midweight Shirt is the one to buy.
 
Red Wing Heritage Pioneer Belt — $89

The right belt to pair with your Red Wing boots.

The makers of your favorite boots are now making a standout belt — the Pioneer Belt is likely the one leather belt you need rigt now.
BucknBear Knives Damascus Drop Point Utility Knife — $99

You won’t need a high-quality knife … until you need a high-quality knife.

Hey, the Damascus Drop Point Knife is the type of piece you won’t need until … you need it. As mentioned above. Perfect for fall and winter yard work, or Thanksgiving weekend chores.
OK, we’re all wrapped up and ready to keep this holiday week going. Any new additions to your shopping list? I love the Quoddy Wabanaki Chukka Boots and think they’re perfect for whatever this long weekend throws your way. Thanks for reading!
by Beau H.

Turkey Time: Heading to Florida for Thanksgiving

Seeing nothing but great vibes over a sunny Florida weekend spent cheering on MSU and hanging with family!


My friends, as you very well know … this past weekend was Thanksgiving! And that brought with it another chance to venture down to my adopted home of Fort Myers for an excellent long weekend with family (and another classic Style Guide road trip, of course). I was last in Florida for a Memorial Day weekend visit — and my folks also made their way north this October — but Thanksgiving in Florida is always a special treat, combining the traditions of family and home with beautiful weather (as I’ve found out these past few years). With my parents moved into a new house and the promise of a lovely weekend, I hit the road on Tuesday in prime fall travel style — of course, if you follow me on Instagram, you probably saw how I dressed for Thanksgiving in style. And if not, today’s the prime chance to dive in! Save me a second helping of turkey, will ya?
Holiday 2017

Versatile gear for a road trip to Florida.

My trip began in earnest on Tuesday afternoon, as I jetted out of work early hauling my favorite men’s style essentials, starting with the handsome, durable WP Standard Large Messenger Bag. From trip after trip — down to Nashville and out to Portland — it’s proven a durable, effective way to haul my everyday carry, and that was certainly the case here (including the latest issue of Gear Patrol for some in-flight reading). For a day at work and a quick cab ride to the airport, my Flint and Tinder All-American Jeans were reliable and comfortable, yet work-appropriate — as was my Flint and Tinder Texas-Made Oxford, a well-fitting shirt that perfectly nailed business casual style. The next time you’ve got to get to a flight from the office, I’d also suggest you throw on a pair of classic Astorflex suede chukkas — as I’ve written about before on the blog, they combine comfort, sustainability and effective style in spades. The combination was versatile and casual, perfect for an evening arrival in Florida and a few brews with a delicious home-cooked meal. With that, it was onto the rest of a long and very enjoyable weekend!

Holiday 2017

Laidback gear for a laidback start to a Florida trip.


After a surprisingly quick and relaxing flight, this Thanksgiving weekend was off and running. Any trip to Florida is always an excellent excuse to break out standout casual style – for a relaxing Wednesday around Fort Myers, that meant reaching for a Grayers striped polo and versatile cotton-blend shorts from Reef, plus my trusty-as-ever Jack Erwin Cooper Boat Shoes (always a warm-weather favorite). Reef’s shorts do a more-than-serviceable job when it comes to offering mobility and comfort, perfect for getting around Fort Myers. I complemented the look with classic aviator sunglasses from James Dean Eyewear – is there a better icon to emulate when it comes to ultra-stylish sunglasses? I’d say not, especially when it comes to battling the Florida sun.

I also threw on my reliable Huckberry Explorer’s Cap and the sharp Electric California Carroway Leather Watch, a consistent favorite for travel and everyday style. The next time you find yourself needing to dress in casual style for warm weather, step into versatile shorts, a striped polo and leather boat shoes that are more city-ready than dock-friendly. It’ll pay off! With that combination, I was more than ready to keep my vacation going.

Holiday 2017

Dressed in tailored-yet-casual style from Todd Snyder and Banana Republic.


Although the weather sure is different in Fort Myers than my home state of Michigan when it comes to Thanksgiving, it’s just as enjoyable and fun-filled to celebrate Thanksgiving there – so I had to dress for the occasion accordingly. And the traditions stay the same, from watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade to enjoying plate after plate … after plate of family recipes. I opted for style that was crisp and polished, yet breezy. Enter a tailored Todd Snyder dress shirt – a Christmas gift from my parents last year! – plus a comfortable, mobile pair of Banana Republic’s Rapid Movement Chinos. Believe me, that extra stretch came in handy after a few helpings of Hayhoe family Thanksgiving.

In the footwear department, I stepped into a pair of classic Sebago Legacy Penny Loafers, a Florida-ready option that offered dressy style and a bit of comfort in the heat. To cap off this tailored-yet-laidback ensemble, a stylish leather watch from MVMT Watches proved dressy, sharp and yet appropriate for the occasion. On the eyewear front, the new Esquire Oliver Sunglasses from Liingo Eyewear have been a favorite these past few days – courtesy of the brand, I’ve been testing out a new pair with excellent results! These glasses are simply designed, well-made and just a bit refined – ideal to wear on Thanksgiving, don’t you think? My #menswear look gave me just enough versatility and comfort to enjoy a relaxing day filled with delicious food and great times with family – that’s what it’s all about, I’d say.

A classic Abercrombie & Fitch tee, plus Mack Weldon boardshorts and more essential gear.


I still had quite a bit of time to savor a relaxing vacation in Florida, too. So, on Black Friday, I took not to the mall or the Internet – alright, I definitely did do some shopping – but to the water! Enjoying the Florida sun is something that, well … you simply can’t do in New York City too often, so I relish the chance to hang out by the pool as much as possible. For the occasion, I packed a pair of Mack Weldon Board Shorts, my reliable Huckberry Explorer’s Cap and some pool-ready Reef Rover Low sneakers (not to mention my trusty James Dean Eyewear aviators). Does anything top relaxing by the water with a refreshing brew? Over Thanksgiving weekend, no less? There’s not much better, man.

Saturday brought with it the start of a beautiful Florida weekend – definitely warmer than NYC, to say the least. A highlight of the day? Watching a winning effort from my beloved alma mater, Michigan State University, as they beat Rutgers to close out their college football season. With a family full of Spartans, from my grandfather all the way down to me, it’s a welcome treat to take in a great game – and I did so in style with my Tailgate Clothing team shirt (which I’d also recommend you wear to your next football tailgate).

Holiday 2017

My breezy Bridge & Burn Stringer Dune Shorts helped keep me cool, while my Johnston & Murphy Allister Sneakers were a team-friendly pair of footwear (Go White!). And to suitably cap off my ensemble, I positively had to put on my Jack Mason team watch – they’ve got a plethora of options, likely including your favorite team. What better way to cheer on your alma mater? Yet again, it was another banner Saturday in Florida – yet, the weekend still wasn’t done!

Dressed to travel back to NYC, once again featuring Abercrombie & Fitch and slim DSTLD denim.

Luckily, I had a final day of relaxation in the Florida sun! My take on casual Florida style started with a pair of DSTLD Slim Jeans in Light Wash, which have served me quite well week after week this fall season. I also threw on a casual, easygoing Abercrombie & Fitch Garment-Dye Oxford Shirt, as reliable a stylish travel shirt as it gets.  I complemented the look with a stylish leather watch from MVMT Watches, plus my comfortable and travel-friendly Astorflex Greenflex Chukkas, once again. And for dependable travel style hauling my everyday carry essentials, I had to reach for a stylish weekender bag in addition to my WP Standard Large Messenger Bag .Of note: My pick of choice this time around was my dependable Voyager Waxed Weekender from the revamped Boarding Pass NYC — formerly Owen & Fred! As expected, the entire combination helped me get around with style and durability in mind (but not before some excellent Florida brews and bites).

It was — once again  — a trip that was over too soon, but no matter how many or how few days I spend with my family, it’s always refreshing and energizing to get away from NYC and enjoy a lovely holiday. I already feel like Christmas in Florida will be here sooner than expected. And as it were, I’m actually headed back to Florida this coming weekend for the 97X Next Big Thing music festival! I positively can’t wait to take in some great tunes and see my sister once again. In the meantime, we’ll have you covered when it comes to all things #menswear this week, including a new #OOTD and plenty more.

Thanks for reading, and I hope you enjoyed your Thanksgiving!

-Beau

by Beau H.

Turkey time: Celebrating a Florida Thanksgiving

A sporty, stylish combination. Polo by QOR. Capital Shorts by OLIVERS Apparel. Gratton Sneakers by Fronteer. Calypso Watch by MVMT Watches. Sunglasses by Nautica.

A sporty, stylish combination for a sunny long weekend in Florida. Heather Merino Knit Polo by QOR. Capital Shorts by OLIVERS Apparel. Gratton Sneakers by Fronteer. Calypso Watch by MVMT Watches. Sunglasses by Nautica.

Whenever I hit the road, I always look forward to packing in style. And when I get the chance to head south to Florida, visit with family and chow down on amazing Thanksgiving food? That’s all the better. Spending the holidays in a warm-weather locale like Florida is a change of  pace from your Style Guide author’s past holidays growing up in Michigan, so the garb I packed with me has changed accordingly over the years. It’s a bit disconcerting sometimes to go from rugged fall style in NYC to spending time on the beach in Florida, but I always look forward to doing so. And just as with my August trip to Florida, I loaded up plenty of warm-weather gear fit for versatile style situations — including Thanksgiving dinner, brewery-hopping and lots of time spent in the sun.

Gear for the office, a flight and Florida style. Crosstown Bomber by Public Rec. Slim-Fit Tapered Leg 5-Pocket Pants by Dickies. Strayhorn Mid Sneakers by JackThreads. Waterbury Chrono by Timex x Red Wing Heritage. Sunglasses by Nautica. Chapter Travel Kit by Herschel Supply Co.

Gear for the office, a flight and Florida style. Crosstown Bomber by Public Rec. Slim-Fit Tapered Leg 5-Pocket Pants by Dickies. Strayhorn Mid Sneakers by JackThreads. Waterbury Chrono by Timex x Red Wing Heritage. Sunglasses by Nautica. Chapter Travel Kit by Herschel Supply Co.

As always with traveling from NYC to a warm climate like Florida, I sought to pack gear that would move seamlessly from a chilly NYC work day to breezy Florida in style. That meant selecting the ever-versatile, comfortable Public Rec Crosstown Bomber— it’s the sort of jacket that layered easily over my classic Old Navy chambray shirt. And my Dickies Slim-Fit Tapered Leg 5-Pocket Pants were more than ready for a day at the office and a flight back home, as were my new CLAE x JackThreads Strayhorn Mid Sneakers. The chukka-style hybrid silhouette and grey wool upper proved stylish for the work day and helped me breeze through security. And, I had to bring along my Timex x Red Wing Heritage Waterbury Chrono for a dash of rugged-refined style for the office and fall travel. On the footwear front, I had to break out my Jack Erwin Cooper Boat Shoes from storage — the next time you’ve got to tackle warm weekend weather in style, you should look to pack a similar pair. Of course, I took along toiletries from the likes of Nivea for Men — the brand’s Creme works as a hand, body and face moisturizer, so it’s a do-it-all travel essential. And throughout my trip, my retro-inspired Nautica sunglasses and the slick, new MVMT Watches Runaway Aviators proved stylish accessory options for the Florida sun. Seriously, never underestimate the power of a stylish pair of men’s sunglasses.  So, with stylish travel gear in tow and a quick flight home in the books, it was onto a fun Thanksgiving holiday weekend.
Huckberry
The day on Wednesday — as one would expect — dawned sunny and pretty hot. With that in mind, I reached for the stretchy, stylish and tailored OLIVERS Apparel Capital Short, as seen at the very top of the page. The versatile color paired up well with another sport-inspired, hybrid piece — a new Heather Merino Knit Polo from performance apparel purveyors QOR. Its tailored look is offset by the merino blend fabric, which wicks sweat and dries quickly. And the comfortable combo paired up well with a new set of kicks — the FRONTEER Super Gratton high-top sneakers, provided courteously by the FRONTEEER team. With their unique design and a silhouette inspired by functional outdoor boots, they’re a nice lifestyle hybrid sneaker. They worked for grabbing a delicious Maple Bacon Donut at the renowned Bennett’s Fresh Roast and hitting the beach. For hitting up Fort Myers Brewing Company later, the brand-new Calypso Watch from the recently launched MVMT Watches Modern Sport collection was a prime, affordable pick. It was also a nice chance to break out a stylish pair of retro-inspired sunglasses from Nautica, and the combination of sport-inspired and functional pieces held up well for Florida exploration — and a few outdoor brews!

florida-thursday-photo-edited

Hanging out in classic Florida fashion. Thomas Pacific Latitude Shirt by Bridge & Burn. Slim Chinos in Light Stone by Taylor Stitch. Cooper Boat Shoes by Jack Erwin. Runaway Aviators by MVMT Watches. Waterbury Chrono by Timex x Red Wing Heritage.

And with an enjoyable Wednesday in the books, it was onto an even more enjoyable Thanksgiving. Now, unlike dressing for a casual fall day, our Florida Thanksgiving celebrations required significantly fewer layers than an NYC November day. With that in mind, it made it easy to reach for the Thomas Pacific Latitude Print Shirt, also from Bridge & Burn. Although that shirt is sold out, you can’t go wrong reaching for any of a selection of similar stylish short-sleeved shirts the next time you find yourself in a warm locale for a holiday. The same goes for the ever-classic Taylor Stitch Slim Chinos in Light Stone — any chance you get to pick up durable, high-quality and classic Taylor Stitch menswear (especially the brand’s lauded chinos), I’d recommend you take it. I found the combo worked quite nicely once again with my Jack Erwin Cooper Boat Shoes and the always-stylish  Timex x Red Wing Heritage Waterbury Chrono for eating second (and third) helpings of Thanksgiving dinner.  And the whole ensemble was polished-yet-casual enough for family Thanksgiving — no expandable waistband in sight on those Taylor Stitch chinos, although it would’ve helped.

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Brewery hopping in the Florida sun. Vesper Polo by Mack Weldon. Stringer Dune Shorts by Bridge & Burn. Cooper Boat Shoes by Jack Erwin. Mod Watch by Timex x Todd Snyder. Vintage ballcap by Goorin Brothers. Glasses by Frameri.

Of course, Friday presented another absolutely beautiful Florida day, and a prime chance to break out some of my best warm-weather menswear again for a little in-person Black Friday shopping and strolling. (And, let’s be honest — a trip to the excellent Big Blue Brewing was in order). The lightweight, breathable and slim Vesper Polo from the fine folks at Mack Weldon was just what the doctor ordered — and it teamed nicely with my ever-essential Stringer Dune Shorts from Bridge & Burn. It was a bit strange to wear warm-weather gear after a chilly NYC fall, but I adjusted easily thanks to stylish pieces like the always-reliable Jack Erwin Cooper Boat Shoes — they’re the rare type of boat shoe that’s refined, and exceedingly easy to wear for both beachside and city exploration. What’s more, my always-reliable Timex x Todd Snyder Mod Watch had to make the trip, too — I think if you pre-order one for yourself, you’ll be mighty surprised at just how much you’ll be reaching for this casual-yet-versatile timepiece. I’d also recommend you reach for an upgraded, subtly designed ballcap if you need to protect your face from the sun — my Goorin Brothers vintage ballcap (unfortunately sold out now) is a perennial favorite. To snag a similar style for yourself, check out the Huckberry Explorer’s Cap. With that gear in tow, it made for a fun, easygoing day strolling around the neat artists’ village of Matlacha — and if ever you find yourself in the Fort Myers area, Point Ybel Brewing is worth a stop to cap off your day.

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In awe of the amazing creations at the American Sandsculpting Championship. Anything Shirt by Strongbody Apparel. Chambray shorts by Canvas by Lands’ End. Cooper Boat Shoes by Jack Erwin. Mod Watch by Timex x Todd Snyder. Vintage ballcap by Goorin Brothers. Sunglasses by Nautica.

And no Florida trip would be complete without a little beach relaxation and a trip to the American Sandsculpting Championship on Fort Myers Beach — right? I made sure to bring along stylish beach gear for some fun in the sun. That gear included the comfortable, sweat-wicking Anything Shirt by Strongbody Apparel, plus a pair of tailored chambray shorts from Canvas by Lands’ End. Of course, my Cooper Boat Shoes helped me out quite nicely for navigating the sand and the city, as did my Nautica sunglasses. If you’ve got to pack relatively light, versatile accessories and footwear that work for multiple situations can undoubtedly help ease the burden of lugging around a heavy weekender bag.

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The durable Calypso Watch from MVMT Watches teamed nicely with my SeaVees Legend Sneakers.

I also switched up my outfit for an evening out and about in Fort Myers (including a requisite viewing of the new “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them,” an excellent Harry Potter film). That meant reaching for a tailored short-sleeve gingham shirt from Banana Republic, along with a pair of tailored Canvas by Lands’ End shorts. I also looked forward to breaking out my crisp white SeaVees Legend Sneakers, a go-anywhere set of kicks that works for both casual and business casual situations. My durable, stylish Calypso Watch from MVMT Watches was once again up to the task — I’ll be getting a ton of use out of that timepiece in the weeks and months to come.  And as to the movie? If you’re a Harry Potter fan, you should absolutely check out the incredibly awesome expansion of the HP universe… but back to menswear, ehh?

Just the right gear to hit the road back to NYC. Crosstown Bomber by Public Rec. Voyager Waxed Weekender by Owen & Fred. Waterbury Chrono by Timex x Red Wing Heritage. Strayhorn Mid Sneakers by CLAE x JackThreads. Utility Bifold by Tanner Goods. Vintage ballcap by Goorin Brothers.

Just the right gear to hit the road back to NYC. Crosstown Bomber by Public Rec. Voyager Waxed Weekender by Owen & Fred. Waterbury Chrono by Timex x Red Wing Heritage. Strayhorn Mid Sneakers by CLAE x JackThreads. Utility Bifold by Tanner Goods. Vintage ballcap by Goorin Brothers.

It seems that every time I head to Florida, it gets tougher to leave — especially after a great holiday with family and some beautiful warm weather. But with that being said, it was time to pack up to head back to NYC — to deal with the impending cold weather, I again grabbed my Public Rec Crosstown Bomber and the versatile, travel-friendly CLAE x JackThreads Strayhorn Mid Sneakers. I packed up my gear in my dependable Owen & Fred Voyager Waxed Weekender, which has more than capably stood up to the demands of both summer and fall travel across the past few months. Of course, my travel watch pick was an easy one — my Timex x Red Wing Heritage Waterbury Chrono  hasn’t yet let me down! And when it comes time to add to your everyday carry, the Tanner Goods Utility Bifold is a wallet I’d certainly recommend.

Buck Mason - Timeless Design. Made in America.

So, with that gear in my bag, I hopped a crowded flight back to NYC — and already, we’re back in action and looking ahead to the holiday season. I had an amazing, fun, relaxing and reflective time in Florida — being able to dress in style was just icing on the cake. But you really can’t put a price on time spent with family — can you? What’s more, I’m already looking forward to being back to Florida for Christmas next month. I hope you enjoyed your Thanksgiving in style, and I hope you’re ready for a busy holiday season at The Style Guide — tomorrow, you can look for a seasonally appropriate #OOTD entry, and Wednesday, we’ll tell you exactly how to dress for your next holiday party. Beyond that, you can expect the best menswear on tap with our Style Pick of the Week series, and more holiday men’s style ideas galore.

Thanks so much for reading — stay stylish!

-Beau

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: Black Friday 2016 Shopping Edition

Ahh, so it’s here again — Black Friday. If you still haven’t recovered from a healthy dose of turkey and football, we’re here to help you at The Style Guide. It’s a bountiful time for shopping — namely, right here from your laptop. And as great as the weekend is, it’s also important to take some time to kick back, enjoy the holiday with loved ones. But make no mistake, there are deals to be had wherever you look. With plenty of retailers opening their doors and starting online sales well in advance of Black Friday, some of the below deals have been going on for a while. But fear not, you’ve got plenty of time to catch up on all of your #menswear shopping needs. Yes, make no mistake, there are some excellent sales out there — with a slew of promotions from Huckberry, Shinola, JackThreads and plenty more favorites, it’s the ideal time to knock a few items off your style wish list. Without further ado — bring on the Black Friday deals!

Huckberry: The lauded online retailer is offering tons of deals through Sunday, namely featuring the following brands:

Sword & Plough: The men’s and women’s accessories company — as featured in this stylish fall travel ensemble — is running a Thanksgiving week sale giving you 20 percent off all the way through Tuesday! They support veterans every step of the production process, so the brand is certainly worth a look.

Mott & Bow: Everyone’s favorite denim brand has a nice Black Friday deal going on today. Use the code ‘BLACKFRIDAY’ to get 10 percent off orders of $150 or more, 20 percent off $250 or more, or 30 percent off $350 or more of Mott & Bow gear.

Johnston & Murphy: The heritage footwear maker is offering select shoes and boots for up to 30 percent off.

JackThreads: Another Style Guide favorite has been running a Price Drop & Lock Guarantee  for the past few weeks, meaning low prices. well, drop and stay there; oh, and they’re giving everyone 25-30 percent off site-wide for Black Friday! And on Cyber Monday, they’re offering 30 percent off site-wide, all day.

FOURLAPS: The neat athletic brand upstart is providing some nice deals on stylish workout gear — you can snag the Dash Tank, Bolt Short and Smash Tee $30 through Monday, November 28th. And once Cyber Monday hits,  you can shop the Silver Charge Tee for $20

CHASE54: The performance and style-focused golf brand is serving up a nice deal through Cyber Monday —take 30 percent off any two-piece bundle and 40 percent off any three-piece bundle.

Batch Men’s: Batch is serving up a rare sale deal — makers of rugged-refined staples like the Tactician Utility Shirt, they’re offering 40 percent off a wide selection of shirts; get the deal using the code ‘THANKS’!

johnnie-O: The preppy, sport-inspired clothiers are offering a nice Black Friday deal — use the code ‘Tweener’ to buy one button-down, get another button-down free.

 

GREATS: In addition to launching two new sneakers (the third iteration of its Beast Mode collab with retired NFL star Marshawn Lynch, plus a special “Black Friday” edition of its low-cut Royale sneaker), the Style Guide favorite and is giving y’all 20 percent off and free shipping sitewide for Black Friday. That goes along with a series of tiered deals on Cyber Monday: namely, you’re looking at 20 percent off and free shipping sitewide from 12 a.m. to 12 p.m., then 25 percent off and free shipping from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m., capped off by 25 percent off and free shipping on all shoes under $100 from 6 p.m. to midnight on Saturday. Hop to it!

Old Navy: The noted casual retailer — who seems to churn out better and better men’s apparel by the season — is offering 50 percent off through Black Friday. That’s a heck of a deal, y’all.

Shinola: The brand is launching its Special Edition All Black Collection, an assortment of signature all-black Shinola products, debuting today.  It includes the brand-new Shinola Runwell Wall Clock and Shinola Power Supply Cords made in partnership with General Electric, plus an all-black Shinola Runwell Turntable, a 47mm Runwell watch with a PVD black sandblasted case and black dial, a one-of-a-kind black tandem bicycle and the Shinola + Benchmade Titanium 765 Pocket Knife. That’s a heck of a lot of gear! Read more about Shinola on Effortless Gent.

Sunday Somewhere: The eclectic sunglasses brand with an international following is giving you stylish guys up to 50% off storewide through Monday, excluding regular eyeglasses & accessories. No discount code needed!

Links of London: Need a special gift for that special someone? Refined British jewelry makers Links of London are offering 25 percent off for Black Friday, both in stores and online, until the 27th, with that same deal running online only through Cyber Monday. And if you spend $495, you’ll receive the brand’s Limited Edition Timeless Diamond Bracelet, a promo that runs in-store from the 28th, and online from the 29th, until December 11th.

Baxter of California:  These fine purveyors of high-quality men’s grooming products are offering 25 percent off the entire site now through November 28th.

Dr. Scholl’s Shoes: Until the 27th, you can get  20 percent off sitewide, plus free shipping, with the promo code DRS20FS. Then, on Cyber Monday, you can take 25 percent off sitewide, with free shipping also included, using the code DRSCYBER.

Reef: The surfwear and basics brand is serving up free 2-Day Shipping on all orders until the 28th using the code REE2DAY.

Richer Poorer: The standout basics brand is offering 40 percent off sitewide for Black Friday.

Steven Alan Optical: Until November 29th (that’s next Tuesday), you can receive 25 percent off all Steven Alan Optical eyeglasses and sunglasses with code BFWKNDSALE16.

Well, folks — that’s just a selection of some of the best #menswear deals out there on the market. From places where you can knock out all your shopping at once — like Huckberry — to e-tailers like JackThreads and Shinola who serve up stylish outerwear and accessories, this weekend is one of the best of the year (if not the best). And if you’re a fan of shopping and scoring deals? You’d do well to hop to some shopping. Wishing everyone a happy Thanksgiving weekend — and we’ll be back tomorrow as scheduled with our Style Pick of the Week.

Stay stylish, my friends!

-Beau
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by Beau H.

Style Suggestion: Thanksgiving Day

All ready to pack up next week? Slim Mailbag by Satchel and Page. Stowaway Weekender Bag by Navali.

All ready to pack up next week? Slim Mailbag by Satchel and Page. Stowaway Weekender Bag by Navali.

Editor’s note: For past Style Suggestions covering Turkey Day, head here.

It’s hard to believe that as I type this post, we’re looking at the third — yes, third — Style Suggestion covering Thanksgiving Day on The Style Guide. Only three, you say? Well, it feels like more than that — it’s been a great journey, with a big move to NYC and some job changes interspersed among all that, and it’s one that I’m thankful for every day. That, of course, includes the cool brands I get to work with and much more importantly, the awesome, engaging people who read this site!

And none of it would be possible without the support and love of my family & friends (some of whom might be reading this post — Hi, guys!). So in the run-up to the holiday next week, that’s what’ll be on my mind. But as to what’s on your mind — hopefully that centers around being quite thankful, too. But, say perhaps your thoughts on are what to wear, or the travel gear you should pack to get to your holiday destination? That’s what we’re covering below — and we’re keeping things casual-crisp in this Style Suggestion. Take a read and let me know your thoughts in the comments!

The Sweater: Frank & Oak Horizontal Cable Sweater in Navy — $66

A horizontal knit and herringbone texture keep this sweater quite visually appealing.

Frank & Oak is a brand that continually gets a lot of things right, something that’s quite tricky to do when you balance putting out monthly collections  with adding to a growing brick-and-mortar presence. But they do it quite well, particularly when it comes to churning out staple fall & winter layering pieces. This reasonably priced cotton sweater nails that equation — it’s cut trim in a sharp, neutral color, yet the formality is toned down by cable knitting; that touch also gives it a good bit of visual interest. It’s less formal than a crisp merino V-neck, so if that’s the way your holiday situation is shaking out, you might want to reach for one of those instead. Conversely, adding in a nice knit tie could dress things up in a pinch if need be.

The Shirt: UNIQLO Slim-Fit Long-Sleeve Oxford — $19.90 (On-Sale)

Keep it simple and crisp with the classic white OCBD for Thanksgiving.

Keep it simple and crisp with the classic white OCBD for Thanksgiving.

UNIQLO continues to rightfully earn its status as a maker of basics that hold up pretty well for the price, and that extends to its shirts in this case. When these are on-sale — and even when they aren’t — they’re an excellent value. The slim fit white Oxford shown here does indeed fit nice and trim, and like most UNIQLO products, these should have some decent stretch built in (more on why that stretch important when we get to the pants). The white Oxford is a style basic that stands up to the challenge of Thanksgiving — it’s likely a day spent in someone else’s home around a special occasion, so it helps to look polished. Yet, it’s not overly dressy, and it seems Thanksgiving is a good holiday to try out going tieless. Yes, it’s a navy sweater-plus-white shirt combo up top, but the texture of the sweater ups the ante.

The Pants: JackThreads Slim Corduroy Pant — $59.50

A basic corduroy that nails the affordability-quality equation and provides nice, er, function for the holiday.

A basic corduroy that nails the affordability-quality equation and provides nice, er, function for the holiday.

This particular pair of pants might seem quite familiar if you’ve perused this blog as of late; they were the top pick in a feature on the best men’s corduroys for fall and winter, and they’re back this go-round. They combine a slim, modern fit, a versatile color and perhaps most importantly for this holiday, a hint of stretch built in (y’know, for all that physical activity you’ll be undertaking on Thanksgiving). However, any pair of corduroys from this list could feasibly work. At any rate, cords will add another dose of texture to the outfit while still appearing a bit more formal than dark denim would, yet they’re not as dressy as some grey trousers — that’ll work well with the fact that we (or just you?) are going tieless here.

The Shoes: Thursday Boots Chocolate Suede Scout Boot — $149

A Goodyear welt, a sharp brown suede color and a slim silhouette make these chukkas look pricier than they are -- a nice addition to the outfit.

A Goodyear welt, a sharp brown suede color and a slim silhouette make these chukkas look pricier than they are — a nice addition to the outfit.

When you take one look at this shoe, you might think it retails for almost twice what it does. The Scout line of chukka boots is a recent introduction from Thursday Boots, and the Chocolate Suede Scout Boot really does look like something else (note that they also come in a crisp Brown Leather option). Thursday Boots, while the target of some criticisms, has provided this author with good quality over time as far as my Roughout Captain Boots are concerned, so we’ll stick with the brand here. On a style points note, these definitely look like something James Bond might’ve worn back in Quantum of Solace. And they’re a worthy pick to finish off this outfit, too — the silhouette makes them less obtrusive than a work boot, and the suede tones down the formality appropriately. Yet, they’re still dressier than crisp sneakers (as great as those can be to wear). That’s what we’re going for here, ultimately.

The Belt: Land’s End Distressed Vintage Jean Belt — $39.00

Go for a bit of visual interest with your belt, as with the rest of your outfit, and you'll be pleased with the results.

Go for a bit of visual interest with your belt, as with the rest of your outfit, and you’ll be pleased with the results.

If at first you experience some sticker shock over the price of this belt, rest assured — it’ll be alright. Paying a bit more for an item you can get lots of wear out of — potentially even every day of the week — is a very solid investment. And if you find yourself dressing in a manner similar to this outfit a lot, a belt with some rugged distressing is one you can reach for over and over. The roughed-up, full-grain leather continues to add a dose of texture to this ensemble in a situation where one could easily reach for a sleeker, and more expensive, dress belt. Not to worry that it doesn’t match up with the dark brown suede — it’s perfectly acceptable to break that rule when you’ve got suede shoes.

The Watch: Timex Waterbury Chronograph — $100

Design details like the aged-looking leather strap and the rugged-refined dial pair nicely with the rest of this outfit.

Design details like the aged-looking leather strap and the rugged-refined dial pair nicely with the rest of this outfit.

Timex hits the nail right on the head with a watch that’s rugged and refined, decently dressy but still acceptably casual and more importantly, ideal for the holiday — all for $100. The Waterbury line was introduced earlier this year to play off the brand’s heritage (and perhaps challenge brands like Shinola?), and it stands to reason that they’ve grabbed some customers with a lower price point and pretty good looks, to boot. The brown dial and aged brown leather strap match up nicely with the overall smart-casual vibe of the outfit. Plus, the strap itself adds some nice texture to an outfit that’s already quite full of it, from the corduroy pants to the cable-knit sweater and the suede boots. Plus, it’ll keep the time well and stand up to a reasonable game of backyard football.

The Socks: American Trench Fall Triple Stripes Sock — $14.50

Complementary colors and a breathable blend of recycled cotton make these socks comfortable AND stylish.

Complementary colors and a breathable blend of recycled cotton make these socks comfortable AND stylish.

If you aren’t yet sold on American Trench, it’s a brand that you absolutely should consider checking out. They’ve popped up here in a Style Q&A , and that gives some great insight into who they are as a brand. In short for the uninitiated: they source premium fabrics and construct their socks (and other gear, like merino watch caps) in U.S. factories, so the price that you pay is more than worth it. And in this particular instance, the Triple Stripe Sock adds a nice complimentary color scheme to the overall outfit without detracting too much from each individual piece. Plus, these socks are comfortable and crafted from a breathable blend of cotton — all too crucial if you slip off the shoes and pad to the kitchen for that second (or third) serving at halftime.

So that’s what’s in the books as far as this Style Suggestion goes — remember above all else that no matter what you wear next week, it’s about celebrating the day with the people you love, and being thankful for what’s on your plate. That’s something that definitely transcends style.

With that said though — thanks, as always, for reading.

Stay stylish,

-Beau
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Florsheim

by Beau H.

Style Suggestion: Thanksgiving Dinner

At most times of year, and particularly Thanksgiving, it’s important to take time to celebrate with family and loved ones while enjoying some much-needed relaxation. Putting some thought into what you wear is just one way to make the occasion even more special. And you want to look good in those photos, right? Enjoy the week and Happy Thanksgiving! 

Thanksgiving oftentimes toes the line between between dressed-up and dressed-down, falling usually on one side of the spectrum. With some modifications, the outfit suggestion below should be able to fit in either way. The most important thing, though, is spending the day with those you love — if you’re able to dress well to do that, all the better! And for other Thanksgiving style ideas, see last year’s post.

Here’s the spread (See descriptions below for links):

Keeping things casual, yet crisp, for Turkey Day.

Keeping things casual, yet crisp, for Turkey Day. Cardigan: J. Crew Factory. Tie: JCF. Shirt & Pants: Bonobos. Watch: Invicta. Boots: JC Penney. Belt: H&M. Socks: Oak Street Bootmakers.

The Sweater: J. Crew Factory Shawl-Collar Cardigan 

This shawl collar cardigan provides more bulk and texture than a thinner cardigan (although a trim cotton cardigan could work if you go dressier). The marled grey color also fits in well with the shades of the season while not being too outrageously bright, unlike some sweaters on the market.  If the situation calls for getting more dressed up, navy corduroy blazer would work just fine.

The Shirt: Bonobos Hudson Brushed Blue Twill Shirt

The Bonobos option is a pretty substantial chunk of change for a regular, more casual buttondown shirt, but the twill fabric and diamond print add some nice texture and visual detail to the piece. Twill also adds some heft to stand up to that thicker cardigan. On the cheaper side, a dark denim shirt from J. Crew Factory provides that same visual bulk for a much lower price. And, a classic chambray shirt would also be a serviceable option.

The Tie (If Needed): J. Crew Factory Wool Herringbone Tie 

Some Thanksgiving dinners lean much more casual, and in that case, you could definitely ditch the tie. But should you want to reach for some neckwear, stick with a seasonal fabric with some depth to it — this brown herringbone piece changes up the typical charcoal wool tie you might see (Frank & Oak offered a standout option last year). It also blends nicely in terms of texture with that thicker cardigan and heavier shirt. Need a tie bar to keep it in place? Your go-to place is, of course, The Tie Bar.

The Pants: Bonobos Burnt Orange Washed Chinos (Or heavier pants in a fall-appropriate color)

Again, this is quite the expensive option for a simple pair of pants — but, on a personal note, these pants have gotten tons of mileage this fall, and that’s sure to hold true this upcoming winter as well. They don’t have the heft of a pair of corduroys, which one might typically go for at Thanksgiving, but like the rest of this outfit, these options are geared to go either dressier or more casual — washed chinos hit the middle perfectly. Many love Bonobos for their fit and great customer service, too. On the less expensive side, you could reach for a twill pant in a similar deep fall shade.

The Boots: JC Penney Stafford Gunner Men’s Leather Boots

Assuming that most of us will be in a colder clime for the holiday with the polar vortex that’s sweeping the nation, captoe boots serve two functions: they combat the snow and also add a dash of style for sweeping through cold weather (see what I did there?). They aren’t the much-beloved brown Stafford wingtip, but black boots help to ground what’s already a pretty color-rich outfit. They also look a little slicker, helping bring a more dressed-up appeal to the ensemble.  If you go really rugged-casual, some new boots from Frank & Oak could also meet the two criteria above.

The Rest: Invicta Men’s Pro Diver Watch, Oak Street Bootmakers Hickory Trail Sock, H&M Leather Belt

Since we want maximum versatility in an outfit, this Invicta watch, which calls to mind the Rolex Submariner, is as classic  and stylish an option as any. And although it’s not necessary, the black dial conveniently matches up with those boots. If you go more casual, a Timex Weekender with a simple canvas strap is always a safe bet, too. Since it’s going to be chilly out there, thicker socks that stay stylish thanks to their marled texture work very well with those black captoe boots above. Make sure your belt matches up with those boots, too.

What are your thoughts on the above picks? Anything you would change or add? What will you be wearing on the holiday?