Tag / the friday read

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: Your New Favorite Spring Shirt, The Best Filson Gear & The Best Men’s Sunglasses

Faherty Brand men's shirts

A new go-to spring shirt to start off your Friday the right way.

My friends, welcome to Friday and welcome to the Friday Read, your essential weekend rundown, packed with shopping and reading picks aplenty. In this case, allow me to turn your attention towards one of the best new spring shirts, this time from Faherty Brand. The Faherty Brand Knit Dobby Workshirt is one of the more durable, yet comfortable and stretch-filled, spring shirts I’ve worn yet this season, and it comes at you courtesy of the new Faherty Brand spring collection. The NYC brand makes the kind of gear I can get behind, using ultra-soft fabrics and quality knits to craft casual style staples that are perfect for breezy weekends, cool summer nights at the beach and days spent working from home. That’s my Friday endorsement, but we’re far from done here.

In addition to checking out gear from the likes of the Faherty Brand spring collection, I’ve been staying plenty busy on the writing front. Recently, I’ve written about a new Longines dress watch for Maxim, and I’m also plenty excited to be contributing to men’s lifestyle site Jacob Graye — the other week, I covered the best Converse sneakers to buy right now (you can look for posts there from me twice a week). I’ve got menswear writing to tackle yet this weekend, but I’m planning to get up to Bar Great Harry, a famed and much-loved beer bar, for some outdoor spring sidewalk beers. Of course, tomorrow also brings with it another edition of my twice-weekly music-menswear-craft beer newsletter, The Style Guide In Brief — be sure to check it out and subscribe ASAP! Elsewhere, you can follow along with all the action via my Instagram, and as for now, here’s the rest of today’s Friday Read.

Be sure to enter to win one of five pairs of Brisk sneakers made by footwear artist Mache.

  • There’s your everyday refreshment (drink water, folks!), and then there’s refreshment that goes just a bit further, like the new Brisk Zero Sugar Iced Tea, which I’ve been checking out this week. It’s a new innovation from the brand (its first major national innovation in five years), but it gets even better than that — head to Brisk Zero Drop to enter a giveaway with prizes dropping every hour. The grand prize is something to behold, especially if you’re a sneakerhead: Brisk worked with footwear artist Mache on an extremely limited-edition run of Brisk-inspired sneakers, and only five winners are getting a pair. Start sipping your Brisk Zero Sugar and start entering ASAP, I’d say

Alex Mill review

A cool new spring polo for breezy days ahead.

Filson men's shirts

A must-buy shirt for spring and summer adventures from Filson.

  • I talked earlier this week about the best new men’s gear to buy at Filson, and I’m recommending once more that you check out those picks accordingly. What’s more, I’m also doing the hard work for you and picking out one of the best men’s shirts at Filson for spring and beyond (Hint: It’s the shirt shown above). I didn’t quite have room for it in my guide to the best new shopping picks from the lauded heritage retailer, but the Filson Field Short-Sleeve Shirt is the durable shirt your spring adventures require.
  • You’ve probably noticed the climbing thermostat and the return of sunny weather, yes? I’ve got just the thing to help you (partially) take on spring and summer in style, and that’s because I updated my guide to the best men’s sunglasses for GearMoose. Prepare accordingly for this weekend and beyond, my friends.

That’s going to wrap it up for today’s Friday Read. Did you find what you were looking for, perhaps new spring sunglasses, one of the best men’s shirts at Filson or perhaps a indigo slub cotton polo from Alex Mill? Allow me to leave you with one final recommended reading pick, and that’d be a rundown of the best cashmere sweater to buy on sale right now (from Todd Snyder, of course). After all, you still need a crucial outer layer for breezy spring days, so who better to shop? Be sure to return tomorrow for our Style Pick of the Week, and let’s make it a great weekend, folks.

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: The Best New Filson Shirt, Best Weekend Beers & the Best Men’s Pomade

Who’s ready for a fine spring weekend, outfitted accordingly with a new Filson shirt? I know I am, and I can say with confidence I think it’s going to be an especially great one (particularly coming off of St. Patrick’s Day, looking towards a warmer spring and celebrating college basketball’s March Madness). I’ll still be clearing out the last of my St. Patrick’s Day beers and wearing one of the best men’s shirts for spring all the while, with new tunes spinning and blog planning in the process — how about you? And yes, I think you can still enjoy one of the best St. Patrick’s Day beers a few days after the fact. Style-wise, I’ve got my eyes focused forward on the best new spring gear from Filson and more, including that stylish lightweight Filson shirt as shown above (you should also layer up accordingly for the season with this Filson rain pullover). Yes indeed, the Filson Kitsap Work Shirt is going to be the ideal way to get the job done this weekend (and beyond). On that note: What’s on your spring to-do list right now?

Before we get into the rest of today’s business, there’s one more thing. Here’s your weekly reminder, of course, to hit Subscribe on my newsletter, which goes out twice a week (Tuesday and Saturday!). In The Style Guide In Brief, I talk about what to listen to for your day, what to shop this week and what to sip on (usually craft beer, or coffee, or whiskey). Again, that’s twice a week and it’s totally free! The ball is in your court now, folks. For the rest of your weekend reading and shopping enjoyment, I give you the rundown in the remaining portion of The Friday Read. Cheers!

Best pomades for men

A cool styling clay to upgrade your look in a hurry.

  • Alright, so we’ve talked a bit about the best new shirt to wear this weekend. But how are you going to style up your hair to go hand-in-hand with that new shirt? After all, a new season calls for a  grooming refresh, too. One of my favorite men’s grooming picks as of late has got to be the Triumph & Disaster Coltrane Clay, an expert pick if you want one of the best men’s pomades on the market. The packaging is super cool, and the product inside offers a strong hold and a matte finish. It doesn’t get any better than that for a spring hair care routine refresh. Get it now at UNCRATE.
  • OK, folks. Here’s another spring move you’re going to love. The Orvis Heritage Field Coat is a stone-cold menswear classic, the perfect type of rugged waxed jacket to wear through blustery spring rain and wind. It’s got all the proper bells and whistles, including a classic corduroy collar and cuffs, and it wears quite well with everything from light wash denim to durable work pants. Layer up accordingly, my friends.
Converse men's sneakers

Classic sneakers at a truly classic price from Converse.

  • Let’s go with one more spring style pick today, shall we? Because the weather’s been so nice in Brooklyn lately, I’ve been gravitating towards classic men’s sneakers — and adding to my wish list all the while, too. That’s what brings me to the Converse Earthy Buck Chuck Taylor All-Stars, a pair of timeless low-top sneakers to wear with rolled light wash denim on days when it’s too nice and too warm for your Orvis Heritage Field Coat. How about that, folks?
  • Watch fans, rejoice, for Hamilton is back with another excellent timepiece to add to your rotation (if you’re willing to invest a bit of coin, that is). For Maxim, I wrote about the incredibly cool, highly precise and super-sharp Hamilton Chronograph H, featuring a new, intricate movement from the legendary brand. Your accessories game just got a shot in the arm.

That’s just going to nearly wrap up today’s Friday Read. What’s caught your eye from my weekend shopping and reading picks? Is it the rugged, classic Orvis Heritage Field Coat or the lightweight, sporty and stylish Converse Earthy Buck Chuck Taylor All-Stars, perhaps? Let me know in the comments below what you happen to be digging right now. I’ll also leave you with one more pick: I wrote all about my favorite spring boots from TAFT here on the blog, and they’re more than ready to help you step out with style and functionality in mind. Cheers and thanks for reading!

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: Clarks Combi Desert Boots, New Olivers Apparel Pants & New Todd Snyder Denim

Clarks Desert Boots

Clarks Desert Boots in a spring-friendly color, available at UNCRATE right now.

Friday means one thing: Well, OK, a few things. It’s the start of an early spring weekend and the right time to close out the week, look towards some relaxation and of course, knock out some seasonal shopping and reading. In the spirit of quite literally stepping into the weekend, my first pick for you today can be seen above: The Clarks Combi Desert Boots are springtime distilled down into a pair of footwear, with comfort and a spring-friendly construction top of mind. This makes them the perfect pair of spring boots with which to lead off today’s post. Courtesy of UNCRATE’s New Arrivals — always worth keeping an eye on — this pair of Clarks desert boots features a helpful pop of color, a very agreeable price and all the classic Clarks comfort you could ever need. See, aren’t you feeling a bit more into the spirit of spring already?

Suffice to say, I sure do. And I’m feeling ever-so-slightly more optimistic heading into this weekend in particular, as the vaccine rollout kicks into higher gear and some of my favorite NYC beer bars announce their reopening plans with warmer weather on the way. Blustery spring weather is still on the horizon, of course and I’m still catching up from my recent trip to Florida (as seen on my Instagram). That being said, I’m hoping to breeze through my to-do list and get out for a Brooklyn weekend stroll. Speaking of: For your own weekend, consider subscribing to my menswear-music-craft beer newsletter, The Style Guide In Brief. It’s free, it comes out twice a week (including tomorrow!) and it’s a heck of a lot of fun (I think!). In the meantime, here are some other choice shopping picks and reading selections for your weekend. Cheers, friends!

Olivers Apparel Traverse Pants

Technical pants that look simply great for early spring and beyond.

Alex Mill menswear

A classic-yet-modern take on the Oxford shirt for spring.

ToddSnyder_SelvedgeJean_IndigoRinse

New denim from Todd Snyder? No problem at all.

That’s going to do it for the lion’s share of today’s Friday Read, but I’ll leave you with one more pick heading into the weekend. If you find yourself in need of a new #OOTD for spring weather, my guide on how to wear a field jacket is going to be just the ticket for standout, durable and functional style. If you do check out any of those selections, be sure to let me know on Twitter. Once again: Cheers!

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: The Best Early Spring Menswear, A New T-Shirt and Grand Seiko Watches

PAIGE men's denim

PAIGE makes stylish casual gear and denim for the modern man, no questions asked.

Is it ever too early to start talking about spring style? It might feel like it at present, as the country thaws out from some seriously nasty winter weather, but it always pays off to be prepared as far as matters of style are concerned. That’s why the new PAIGE Denim Spring 2021 Collection caught my eye earlier this week. The L.A.-based denim brand (previously featured on the blog) specializes in toeing the line between cool and casual with ease. They’ve perfected the art of the best denim for men in expert washes and colors, plus breezy shirt jackets, easygoing button-downs, buttery soft T-shirts and some of the best outerwear for spring. You really could get dressed head-to-toe in PAIGE men’s denim, so consider this an endorsement as we head into the weekend.

My own weekend will include even more time in the Florida sun, as has been the case the past few weeks, with beer from Point Ybel Brewing stocked plentifully in the fridge here in Fort Myers. A tip: I love the Little Sanibel Table Beer, made with French Saison yeast and Mosaic hops for bright, citrus-y flavor and aroma, plus  a crisp and refreshing finish. Can you tell I’m looking forward to a happy hour brew later?? In the meantime, I’m going to stay busy working on my Saturday newsletter for The Style Guide In Brief. If you don’t yet subscribe, now’s the perfect time to get acquainted with my twice-weekly newsletter on menswear, music (usually of the indie rock variety) and craft beer, or coffee, or whiskey. On Tuesday in fact, I wrote about Scottish synth pop stars CHVRCHES. Best of all, it’s free! Head here to subscribe and kick off your weekend the right way. In the meantime, feast your eyes on a few more shopping and reading picks below. Thanks for being here!

Tomorrow's Laundry

A monthly subscription designed to bring you basics that aren’t so basic.

  • We talked above about the best men’s denim and other pieces to wear for spring, but what if you just want to upgrade your basics rotation for casual spring days at home (or on the road)? Better yet, what if you want to upgrade to luxury basics for men that’ll change the way you think about the humble T-shirt? Enter Tomorrow’s Laundry, one of my favorite recommended picks for today. For $68 a month, you get basics like two super-premium T-shirts or a stylish French Terry hoodie in modern or classic fits, with access to a team of stylists to curate your Tomorrow’s Laundry Essentials Club. Laidback lounging or on-the-go adventures just got a whole lot more comfortable and stylish.
Mad Rabbit Tattoo - Mad Rabbit Tattoo Butter

No matter how many tattoos you’ve got, Mad Rabbit’s essentials are going to come in handy.

  • Let’s go beyond just luxury men’s basics, shall we? Or perhaps, let’s talk about something that’s ever-so-slightly related. If you’re a tattoo aficionado or have been thinking about getting (safely) inked up, maybe you want to show off those tattoos while wearing, say, a T-shirt from Tomorrow’s Laundry. How to best ensure your tattoos look their best, no matter how large they are or where they are on your body? That’s easy. Mad Rabbit Tattoo has a trio of tattoo essentials designed to enhance your tattoos and repair your skin in the process. From a tattoo balm to tattoo gel, consider giving Mad Rabbit Tattoo a look — they definitely helped my last tattoo heal up nicely! Cheers.
Grand Seiko SLGH005

A heritage watch that’s perfectly suited to be worn every single day.

  • Alright, I’ve got a reading pick for your enjoyment this fine Friday. For Maxim.com, I wrote about a seriously cool new Grand Seiko watch, a timepiece inspired by lovely Japanese Birch trees. How does that translate into an heirloom-worthy watch? You’re going to have to read on to find out. Of course, if you’re feeling splurge-worthy, you can also shop Grand Seiko watches in the meantime.
  • Let’s close things out with one more reading and shopping pick, shall we? You know Taylor Stitch from over the years on the blog here. Perhaps you even know the Northeast retro athletic gear purveyors at Tracksmith. So, you should assuredly head to GearMoose to read all about the Taylor Stitch x Tracksmith Park Bomber Jacket, one of the best men’s jackets for spring — I’ve got the full scoop for you.

Perhaps you’re feeling a little more hopeful now about all things spring now that you’ve checked out some PAIGE men’s denim or considered a (truly) splurge-worthy Grand Seiko watch, ehh? I know that’s how I’m feeling. That being said, I’ve got one last recommended style read for you: My piece on how to wear a chore coat can be easily customized for late season chills and breezy early spring days in the weeks ahead, so go on and make it your own today. Cheers to the weekend, stay safe and thanks for reading!

 

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: The Best Beckett Simonon Boots, A New Bulova Watch & A New Winter Blazer

Beckett Simonon boots review

The coolest new suede boots (and water-repellent, at that!) for your seasonal wardrobe.

Folks, it’s time that we step right into another Friday Read, is it not ,and I’ve got some of the best boots for men up for grabs. It’s another cold winter weekend across much of the country (I happen to be on a Florida getaway at the moment, sorry!), but I’m still plotting out my winter wardrobe when I return to the Big Apple. I don’t know about you, but for me, that’s got to mean some of the best men’s boots from a luxurious-yet-accessible brand like Beckett Simonon. And it just so happens that the incredible Beckett Simonon Gallagher Boots are made from water-repellent suede, a nice way to step out in winter rain or even light snow while still keeping a bit of refined style on lock.

Heck, these are even boots you can wear with jeans and your favorite field jacket, if you really want to keep it rugged & casual-yet-cool. Go with Beckett Simonon boots, and they won’t let you down. That’s the best way I can recommend you kick off Friday, but a few choice reads and shopping picks below ought to help, ehh?

HELM Boots

As for me, I’ll be enjoying another Florida weekend in the sun (this you know, if you follow me on Instagram), filled with some relaxing pool and beach hangs, plus local craft beer from Point Ybel Brewing — my favorite brewery in town — and some choice reads. I’m working my way through “Greenlights” by Matthew McConaughey, as it were, and I can’t recommend it enough. Entertaining and enlightening the whole way through so far.  But back to the rest of today’s Friday Read below — check out the coolest new watch on the market, read about the best loungewear and roll into the weekend with ease.

Devil Diver main view

I covered this seriously cool new watch from Bulova for Maxim this week.

  • Speaking of the best new watch for men, well, here it is. Want to really upgrade your watch game in a way that’s functional yet stylish, and with utterly classic roots? Then the revamped Bulova Devil Diver (featuring a water resistance up to 666 feet) is for you. Good news is, I covered it for Maxim — see for yourself here. Yes indeed, call it one of the best men’s watches of the moment or call it just a darn fine retro throwback, but get it on your wrist either way.
Mack Weldon Tech Cashmere Crew Neck Sweater

A well-fitting cashmere sweater made with an infusion of tech fabric for comfort and versatility.

HELM Boots

Alex Mill menswear

The perfect casual jacket for your next day of remote work.

  • Let’s keep things rolling with one last recommended shopping pick, this time from New York City’s own Alex Mill. The up-and-coming brand is making perfectly casual men’s style staples, including this stylish winter blazer that’s incredibly easy to throw on over a T-shirt for your next Zoom meeting or happy hour. When things do start to turn around, you can wear the Alex Mill Double Face Knit Blazer atop a crisp white Oxford shirt at the office. How’s that for a winter shopping pick, ehh?

So to refresh before we let you roll into the weekend, we covered everything from a stylish winter blazer to the best sweater to wear at home, as far as shopping picks are concerned. We also dove into the best new watch for men, and you should assuredly head to Maxim to read my take on it. Lastly, do yourself a favor and check out a rugged fleece trucker jacket for expert casual winter style. As always, you can swing back through the blog tomorrow for our Style Pick of the Week. Make it a great weekend, folks!

-Beau

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: L.L. Bean’s Winter Snow Boots, New Olivers Apparel Gear & The Perfect Flannel Shirt

L.L. Bean Tumbled Leather Snow Boots

Classic winter boots with style and functionality top of mind.

If your weather forecast has been anything like the weather we’ve been dealing with in Brooklyn lately, I’d wager you could use a pair of the best men’s winter boots from L.L. Bean, as shown above, ehh? It’s always helpful, in my mind, to remember that a classic brand is continuing to churn out functional, useful gear for harsh seasons, especially when winter storms sneak up unexpectedly (NYC got 15 inches of snow last week!). In this case, consider this your Friday endorsement: Head to L.L. Bean to jumpstart your weekend, upgrade your rotation of the best men’s boots for winter and step out in style in the process. Oh, and you’ll avoid getting caught off-guard when massive snowstorms roll into town (because you just know there’s another one on the way, right??). So, there you have it: Classic L.L. Bean boots for the win. Now, let’s keep it rolling with more of the best gear and weekend reads, ehh?

On that note, I should mention that I’m thankful I got out of town just in time — I headed (safely!) to Florida earlier this week, where I’ll be spending the next few weeks lounging by the pool, hanging out with my dogs and enjoying local craft beer from Florida’s Point Ybel Brewing, of course. Do you have any plans for a safe, warm-weather winter getaway? I’ll also be staying busy on the writing front, starting with my Saturday newsletter. If you haven’t yet subscribed to The Style Guide In Brief, feel free to check it out! I write twice a week about menswear, craft beer and indie rock, and best of all, it’s free. Last Saturday, I actually wrote about indie icon Phoebe Bridgers’ appearance on SNL — what a night that was, ehh? In the meantime, the rest of today’s Friday Read is below. Make it a great one!

Faherty men's shirts

A laidback, expertly crafted shirt to wear on winter weekends aplenty.

  • Let’s kick off the weekend with a shopping pick, the sort of shirt you can wear at home or on the road. Consider the Faherty Brand Knit Seasons Shirt the type of shirt you can throw on and then forget about: It’s laidback and easygoing, yet still more than suitable to wear on a Zoom call. And when you want one of the best men’s shirts for winter layering (say, atop your favorite henley from Faherty Brand), it can more than readily step up in the clutch. All that’s missing now is a favorite vinyl record spinning and a fresh pot of coffee brewing this weekend. How about it?
Olivers Apparel review

Your new go-to workout shorts for winter and well beyond that.

  • Alright, now let’s go for something a bit less winter-centric and a bit more focused on your “home gym” (or laidback weekend hangs at home). That’s where Olivers Apparel comes into play. If you’re not familiar with the brand — check out this blog post, to start — you’d do well to shop the Olivers Apparel All Over Shorts, a style I’ve been wearing frequently in Florida. Moisture-wicking fabric, an elastic waistband and a range of versatile color options make these the best workout shorts for men to buy this instant.

  • Speaking of at-home style, let’s keep things rolling in seriously relaxed comfort this weekend. For GearMoose, I wrote all about the GREATS Driggs Slippers, featuring a natural wool felt upper and a faux-fur lining — consider them a nice change of pace for your feet when you kick off your boots at the end of a long day. On that note, you’d also do well to check out my guide to the best hiking boots from GREATS, too.
  • One last style item for your weekend: Head over to Maxim to read about the stunning and newly launched Piaget Skeleton Polo Watch, an updated take on the brand’s iconic Polo Watch that offers a close look at the inner workings of this handsome and refined timepiece. A guy can dream, right?

Here’s one more style guide for your weekend — quite literally, that is. I talked earlier this week about how to wear a shawl collar cardigan casually, and if I have anything to say about it, well, this weekend is the perfect time to kick back in cool, classic style (slippers and whiskey very much included in this #OOTD). Click through, kick back and shop away. Thanks for reading and have a great weekend!

 

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: A New Nixon Watch, At-Home Weekend Style & The Best Hot Sauce

Disclosure: This post includes free product provided for review from TRUFF Hot Sauce and also uses affiliate links, from which a small commission might be earned on qualifying purchases. All thoughts are my own. 

Best Nixon Watches For Men - AskMen

My friends, as I always tend to say when we dive into the Friday Read, well, it’s quite literally *time* to step into the weekend, and you should assuredly do so with the aid of a stylish and rugged timepiece from the likes of Nixon. You’re hopefully familar with the brand’s rugged dive watches and a nice mix of casual leather watches & more, and that’s where it gets even better. In the spirit of Valentine’s Day, Nixon is offering a men’s and women’s custom watch program. It’s a neat process that allows you to customize everything from the case color to the color of the dial and the seconds hand, and of course, you can add an engraved message on the back, too. I’ve had a chance to check out the Nixon watch customization program on my own and am seriously pleased with the results (I got the Nixon Time Teller Custom Watch) — you can and should follow me on Instagram to see the finished product, and if your partner could use a new and stylish custom watch for Valentine’s Day, this is the perfect opportunity to make it happen. Now, onward to the rest of today’s Friday Read.

Now, if you follow me on Instagram or Twitter, or if you read my twice-weekly newsletter, The Style Guide In Brief, I bet you’re caught up on the latest in my neck of the woods. If not, well, allow me to get you up to speed. I’ve been so honored and excited to share my first-ever  feature for Esquire.com (yes, Esquire.com!) — and for the occasion, I went big. I’ve admired the style of Brandon Flowers, frontman of The Killers, for years and years, and with the band’s excellent new album Imploding The Mirage continuing to delight fans and critics, I knew I had to speak with him about the album and his standout style. If you’d like, you can read my interview with Brandon Flowers here. — what a band, what a frontman, and what an opportunity! Of course, that’s not the only thing I’ve been working on, because I also covered the best at-home menswear for GearMoose and a new Scotch whisky for Maxim — both of those pieces are below! Thank you for reading, thank you for your support and let’s dive into the rest of The Friday Read below.

  • We tend to cover a lot of ground here on the blog these days, from the best on-sale Chelsea boots to the best new henley to buy now, but I think you’ll like this change of pace. I’m no gourmand, but I’ve truly loved the opportunity to test out what I think is one of the best hot sauces on the market, TRUFF Hot Sauce. They offer white truffle hot sauce, classic hot sauce, truffle pasta sauce and more. The white truffle hot sauce is my favorite, to be sure. I’ve tried it on sandwiches, rice, eggs, pizza and more — it really delivers quality flavor and a not-overpowering, slightly sweet heat. It’s infused with truffles and presented in some seriously eye-catching packaging (and they also offer hot sauce bundles). Consider it a great gift for yourself or a great gift for the gourmand in your life for Valentine’s Day, or consider it one of the best hot sauces to buy now, regardless of the time of year.

Bonobos Wool Bomber Jacket

  • I mentioned above that we’d get into the best gear to wear at home, or rather, the best gear for a weekend at home (from whiskey to stylish loungewear and more), so in the spirit of sticking to my word and helping you look great in the process, you best check out my guide for GearMoose on at-home weekend style, grooming and more.
  • Speaking of what to wear and sip as you stay at home, you’d do well to check out my latest for Maxim on a new, seriously delicious and nuanced Dewar’s Scotch whisky aged in Portuguese port ruby casks. Cheers to a weekend winter warmer, my friends.

The winter months present all kinds of style challenges, including staying warm as you take on the elements at a sidewalk bar or an outdoor heated patio — and that’s why I can’t recommend enough that you check out my pick for one of the best men’s thermal shirts, the rugged Freemans Sporting Club Homespun Thermal. I’ve got the full scoop in this blog post. Happy layering & happy shopping! And once again, thank you for your support, thank you for reading, thank you for your kind comments and E-mails — it means the world! Onward and upward, my friends. We’ll see you back here tomorrow.

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: The Best Bluetooth Radio, New Mack Weldon Gear & The Best Leather Jackets

Tivoli Audio Model One

Ever since making the jump to full-time freelance writing back in July of last year, my days have started off a bit differently than when I “clocked in” (logged into Slack, that is) during my old full-time job. Namely, and especially on a Friday like today — and the day after my birthday, no less! — I take it easy to start the day, reading a book, snapping some Instagram photos and of course, playing my Spotify playlist on the seriously cool Bluetooth radio shown above. That radio would be the Tivoli Audio Model One, and it’s perhaps the best Bluetooth radio I’ve seen — I can’t vouch for Tivoli Audio enough, what with classic, cool designs plus crystal-clear sound quality that’s at once booming and yet nuanced. In fact, I reviewed the Tivoli Revive for Maxim, but I love the fact that you can get the Tivoli Audio Model One at UNCRATE, and it’s with some laidback tunes that I’m rolling into the weekend. How about you? We’ve got a jam-packed Friday Read to send you on your way if you keep scrolling, too.

 But back to this week — it’s been a busy one as I file stories for The Manual and Maxim (one of which you’ll read below!), among others, and of course, it was all in the midst of my “birthday week,” too! Heck, when I started this blog back in the summer of 2013, I had no idea it’d become part of my “career” as a freelance writer, and I certainly didn’t know if it would make it to 2021! How about that?

Things looked mighty different this year than last year, or any other year, for that matter, but I spent my day reading a new favorite book about The Replacements, strolling through Prospect Park and enjoying a beer or three at the heated outdoor bar that is The Rusty Nail in Brooklyn. Thanks to all who wished me a happy birthday! I certainly made the best of it it, and I’m grateful to be able to celebrate in small ways this year — with better days ahead, no doubt. But today, and this weekend, it’s back to work on content for this blog and elsewhere, powered by coffee and the soulful stylings of The National. With all that being said, I recommend you get your hands on the Tivoli Audio Model One to provide the right soundtrack for this weekend (and beyond). Cheers and thanks for reading!

Mack Weldon review
Wolverine BLVD Collection
  • I’ve got another recommended winter style tip for you, one meant to shake up the doldrums of these days with classic looks and top-notch functionality in mind. I’m talking, naturally, about Wolverine men’s boots for rugged seasonal appeal. To get more specific, I’m recommending you pick up the Wolverine BLVD Cap Toe Boots, a highly versatile, rugged-yet-dressy leather boots you can wear with slim blue jeans or perhaps even some Mack Weldon performance pants and a stretch casual shirt for dressier days at home or on the road. How about it, ehh? And yes, you can also get free shipping on Wolverine boots right now.
  • The headline, of course, mentions the best leather jackets, so without further ado, here’s my latest Maxim guide on the coolest leather jackets to buy now. Of course, I had to feature a Buck Mason leather jacket, plus a refined and versatile leather jacket from The Jacket Maker. Talk about standout winter layering and timeless style.

I talked above about the leather jacket you should be wearing right now, but what about your refined winter topcoat from Todd Snyder and how to wear that particular piece? That’s what this #OOTD covers: How to wear a topcoat this winter. Stay right here on the blog to check it out, then layer up in style accordingly. That’s all for today, folks — enjoy the weekend and thanks for reading!

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: The United By Blue End-of-Season Sale, Filson x Popeye & Men’s Grooming Essentials

United By Blue apparel

Looking towards a better future and telling you all about the United By Blue End-Of-Season Sale.

Folks, it’s been a HECK of a few weeks to start the year, has it not? It’s odd, at times, to be sitting down to write about men’s style as the Twitter doomscroll occupies the other part of my computer screen and my brain (I talk about this more in my newsletter, The Style Guide In Brief), but in the spirit of dressing better in the new year and hopefully having some fun along the way, I’m going to keep rolling right along with today’s Friday Read. Let’s start things off with a quick shoutout to one of the best ongoing men’s style sales right now: The United By Blue End-Of-Season Sale, as the headline so sagely mentions. It’s a great place to get discounts on rugged men’s gear, and I love the brand’s Responsible Flannel Shirts and really, the entire line of United By Blue men’s apparel. It also helps that the company removes a pound of trash from oceans and waterways with every product purchased. How’s that for ethical and sustainable style, ehh? Not a bad way to roll into the weekend.

Oars + Alps review

The latest Oars + Alps launch is made to refresh your grooming routine this winter, ASAP. Use the code BEAU15 to get 15 percent off.

I want to also quickly shout out another item of note, this time focused on some of the best men’s grooming essentials out there. The men’s grooming picks in question come from Chicago-based Oars + Alps, which works with NFL star DeAndre Hopkins and recently launched its Anti-Everything Pads. In short, the next time your face needs a pick-me-up as you power through another day working from home, use these exfoliating pads to freshen your skin, fight razor bumps, battler dark spots and more. Sounds like a crucial addition to your lineup of men’s grooming picks. Of course, you can use the code BEAU15 to get 15 percent off your order right now. So, with those two picks leading off your weekend, here’s the rest of the Friday Read below. Cheers, folks.

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PAIGE Denim

Just two of the best new men’s style picks of the moment, all via the PAIGE Winter 2021 Menswear Collection.

HOMMEFACE men's skincare

An easy way to upgrade your skincare routine in one fell swoop.

  • I talked earlier about Oars + Alps men’s grooming (again, use the code BEAU15 to get 15 percent off your order!), but let me also mention another men’s grooming pick I’ve been loving as of late. After all, taking care of skin during the winter months is critical, and it’s all the better if you can find a do-it-all product that works in a hurry. I’m talking, of course, about the HOMMEFACE Intense Hydration Soothing Cream, which moisturizes and repairs, all at once. It’s a new favorite, and I can’t recommend it enough.
Filson x Popeye

Get your hands on this collaboration while you still can, folks.

  • Here’s another fun menswear release this week. If you follow the blog, you know that I love classic menswear at Filson, and what better way for the lauded heritage brand to bring its focus on rugged gear to the forefront than through the Filson x Popeye collaboration? Yes, that’s right: Filson x Popeye (as in, Popeye the Sailor Man!). Popeye’s the perfect sort of character to wear Filson, what with his toughness, his swashbuckling love of adventure and his time on the high seas. The brand even debuted the collaboration (featuring everything from a wool cap to a durable hoodie) with a livestream concert from Lake Washington on the Filson Instagram. It gets better, though. In fact, you should head here to read more about the history of Popeye. That’s what makes the Filson x Popeye partnership so cool, and I personally can’t get enough of it. Happy shopping, folks.

So, that’s going to bring today’s action-packed Friday Read to a close. What will you be shopping this weekend? Perhaps the Filson x Popeye has caught your eye, or else the fantastic United By Blue End-Of-Season Sale? Let me know what’s caught your eye over on Twitter or via my Instagram. In the meantime, here’s to health, safety and a weekend craft beer or two. Cheers!

 

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: The Best Weekend Getaway Bag, A Mott and Bow Discount & A New Timex Watch

Herschel Supply Co. Novel Duffle

Get ready to get away by packing up this durable and dependable weekender bag from Herschel Supply Co.

To say that it’s been a wild start to the new year would probably be an understatement, right? No doubt, no doubt. And yet, the beat goes on here at The Style Guide, from telling you how to dress for winter to outfitting you in the best men’s style essentials from Everlane. Of course, there’s been a lot going on in the wider world, and that’s got me thinking of an upstate getaway later this winter (and I’ll also be heading to Florida next month!). That being said, I know the best weekend getaway bag for both myself and for any trips you might be planning. I’m talking, of course, about the stylish weekender bag seen at the top of the page, the Herschel Supply Co. Novel Duffle. A recent introduction to the Herschel Supply lineup of the best everyday carry essentials, it’s a winning bag on multiple fronts, from the waterproof zipper construction to the cool-as-can-be striped fabric liner.

It’s simply one of the best weekender bags for men, and it’s available at a standout price, too (try $90 at Herschel). Plus, you can pick from a whopping 29 color combinations when it comes to the Herschel Supply Novel Duffle. That’s about as great as it gets, folks. Until I can plan a getaway, however, I’ll be writing away here in Brooklyn at sites like Maxim and GearMoose, of course. And if you can’t get enough of the blog, you should do yourself a favor and subscribe to my newsletter, The Style Guide In Brief. Twice a week, I talk menswear, music and craft beer or whiskey. It’s a heck of a lot of fun, and it’s a change of pace from your regular men’s style coverage here (IMHO!). Again, subscribe HERE and keep scrolling: The rest of today’s Friday Read awaits.

Mott and Bow men's denim

The Mercer Jeans are just one of the best pairs of men’s jeans you can find at Mott and Bow.

  • In an earlier Friday Read this month, I talked about how Mott and Bow was now making some of the best men’s chinos. And yet, the dedication to well-fitting, slim blue denim (like the Mott and Bow Mercer Jeans) is right there, too. So here’s the scoop: You can use the code beau10 to get 10 percent off your first order at Mott and Bow. It’ll come in mighty handy when you want to pick up some of the best men’s blue jeans, like the timeless pair seen above. And if you’ve been a frequent customer of the brand in the past, you’re in luck, because they haven’t yet taken their foot off the gas as far as quality menswear. Cheers to that, my friends.
Timex Marlin Automatic Watch

A classic and crisp leather dress watch to wear all winter long.

  • I mentioned that I’ve been mighty busy kicking off the year on the writing front, and that’s particularly true over at GearMoose, a site for which I’ve now been writing five years (five!) as of this month! With that being said, it’s still a serious thrill to cover some of the coolest men’s gear out there, like the remarkable 2021 Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional, as I did earlier this month. Talk about an investment-level watch, folks.

That’ll do it for today’s Friday Read, my friends. In the spirit of a much-needed getaway and the proper gear for the occasion, I’ll direct you one more time toward one of the best weekender bags for men, the Standard Issue Leather Duffel as crafted and sold by Huckberry. Check out that blog post, consider it carefully and make that duffel, or the Herschel Supply Novel Duffle, your next go-to weekender bag. Folks, thanks for reading — stay safe and stay strong!