Tag / the friday read

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: The Best Oxford Shirts, Taylor Stitch x Stetson & UpWest Clothing

Durable, dependable, made to last — that’s what Faherty Brand offers here. The perfect way to start your weekend.

Perhaps you, like me, are looking for one of the best men’s winter jackets as we head into another winter weekend (and as we dress for the polar vortex, no less). That being said, perhaps the Faherty Brand Atmosphere Hooded Jacket at the top of the page can get your weekend started right — that’s why we’re here with another edition of the Friday Read, after all. And to help you work on your New Year’s resolutions and bolster your winter style offerings, I think you’ll find plenty of handy, helpful tips and tricks below (A hint: That includes new boots from Taylor Stitch x Stetson). Elsewhere, when you start out with one of the most important layers — a rugged winter parka — you’re guaranteed to make it a great weekend (or at least, a bearable one in the snow and slush). I don’t have any doubt that I could get a lot of use this coming weekend out of the Faherty Brand Atmosphere Hooded Jacket, seeing as I plan on getting out and about in the borough with my new Pub Pass, a standout “coupon book” of sorts (but with a much cooler design) that offers free beer at some of the best spots in Brooklyn — I’ve already visited soccer-themed pub Banter, and I think I’ll make it a point to visit another favorite haunt (Covenhonven) soon, too. In the meantime, I’ll be keeping up with the latest music festival drops as we look ahead to summer — Coachella announced its lineup last week, Bonnaroo dropped its lineup earlier this week, and more are on the way. Who else is pumped?

You can keep up with all the fun on my Instagram — and for now, let’s dive into the rest of what you need to know this weekend.

  • I mentioned above we’d dig into the new Taylor Stitch x Stetson Moto Boots as part of that standout collaboration, and well, here they are — I covered these outstanding, rugged leather boots for GearMoose, and they’re only available for pre-funding for a limited time. Best get right to it, folks.
  • The headline of this post says it all — to kick off your weekend and keep your winter rolling, I wrote about the best Oxford shirts for my friends at The Manual. When you want classic men’s style essentials, an Oxford shirt is one of the best places to start.
  • Maybe you want to ease into this year in casual, laidback style — the sort of style that can refresh your approach to wellness and provide you with new perspective and comfort. On that note, the folks at UpWest think they’ve got what you need, from cozy sweats to warm thermal shirts and more. Naturally then, I wrote about a clothing brand that can change your life — head to The Manual for more.
  • Lastly, on the music front, I mentioned the 2020 Coachella lineup above — have you ever been to the country’s biggest music festival? I haven’t, and unless the indie rock quotient is upped significantly in future years, I can’t say when I will! But, to each their own. Back to menswear for now, OK?

Last but not least, I’m going to direct you back toward a pretty straightforward piece — my take on the best new menswear essentials to start the year. We cover solid cologne, new winter flannel shirting, dependable boots and plenty more — all of which are going to serve you well come 2020. OK, that’s all from me — time to kick back with some coffee (first) and a rich beer later. Cheers!

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: Kicking off 2020, A New Buck Mason Jacket & the Best Corduroy Pants

Nothing but the very best leather jacket to wear to start 2020.

Ahh, yes — another Friday, another new edition of The Friday Read, and crucially, another opportunity to keep 2020 rolling in style. First things first: We’ve talked previously about Buck Mason on the blog, and how this venerable brand produces some of the best men’s jackets and other must-haves, and that’s no different when it comes to the investment-worthy leather jacket you see at the top of the page. It’s one of the best leather jackets you can buy, and it’s an ideal way to kick off the first weekend of 2020. How was your (hopefully) shortened week? I spent mine with two days of work at my day job working on social media and influencer programming, and then, I closed out 2019 in the very best way possible — seeing legendary NYC rock band The Strokes play at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn!

Talk about an action-packed, hit-filled night with nothing but all-time classics on loop. It was an incredible way to close out the year and the decade — I’m seriously looking forward to 2020, as I’ve got some big plans for the blog, including ongoing freelance writing pursuits and of course, my ever-growing Instagram (I kid, I kid!). Hopefully, you’ll find some of the best men’s style tips to jumpstart your 2020 — as always, the focus will be on affordability, quality construction, classic design, and yes, a bit of fun and maybe a splurge or two along the way (start with my series The List to kick things off with the best new men’s gear, will ya?). And for the rest of you: If you’ve resolved to kick off your new year in style — and really, who among us hasn’t? — then you’re going to like today’s take on The Friday Read. For now though, I’ve got some coffee to enjoy and some beer to imbibe later this weekend (chiefly, at at the new Brooklyn location of Hudson Valley-based Svendale Brewing). OK, that’s all from me for now. Let’s get to it!

  • Finding the right gear to amp up your style during winter can be a bit of a challenge — but if you start with the classics, like some of the best corduroy pants for men as covered by yours truly at The Manual — I think you’re going to like the end result.  You can also read more right here on the blog when it comes to the best men’s corduroy pants, too.
  • Starting off a new year is about more than just upgrading what you’re wearing — it’s also about amplifying your men’s grooming essentials, and as you’ve read on the blog, you know that Duke Cannon can help you do that. Specifically, I’m talking about the Duke Cannon Proper Cologne, one of the best men’s colognes you’re apt to find.
  • Let’s keep talking new men’s gear, shall we? With improving your everyday carry top of mind to start 2020 (both in matters of style and functionality), I wrote about a trio of EDC essentials to get you where you’re going without missing a beat — head to GearMoose to check out the full post.

Alright, that’s going to bring an end to the first edition of The Friday Read to start this year. Before you go, though  — I think you’d do well to check out my simple, easy, effective guide to wearing your new favorite winter sweater. Hint: It’s a classic cashmere sweater from Mott and Bow, and it’s teamed with sharp wingtip boots and plenty more men’s style essentials. I’ll leave you to it, then — happy shopping, and happy 2020!

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: The Best New Leather Jacket, Taylor Stitch Ranch Boots & The Pinstripe Bowl

This classic leather jacket is going to add a ton to your menswear rotation.

Let’s jump into things right off the bat, shall we? The headline mentions above that we’ll talk about the best leather jacket for the season, and in fact, it’s the incredible Buck Mason Bruiser Leather Bomber Jacket as shown above. Especially with New Year’s Eve on the horizon — and particularly if you enjoy going to a rock concert or two — you need one of the best leather jackets you can buy. It’s an apt layer with your favorite henley this winter (trust me). So, we’ve closed out Christmas and are looking toward the end of 2020 — how wild is that?? I hope you’re gearing up for a relaxing weekend with family and friends, or a more adventurous time on the road — either way, today’s Friday Read is going to get you sorted out in short order. I also hope you got something on your Christmas wish list — I know I certainly did, and I loved spending a relaxing week in Florida with family, celebrating in the fun and the sun (as seen on my Instagram).

Shop Western Rise Now
This weekend though, I’m back in New York and excited despite the cold — in addition to a laidback weekend in Brooklyn, I’m venturing into Manhattan today for a very unique reason. Notably, my alma mater, my beloved Michigan State Spartans, are playing in the Pinstripe Bowl at Yankee Stadium to close out this season! It’s going to be a bitterly cold affar (as any college football game at Yankee Stadium should be), but I’m still beyond excited to see my Spartans right here in NYC. Before the game, I’d say a pint or two will be in order at this weekend’s MSU hub, Stan’s Sports Bar. The rest of the weekend, I’ll be getting out and about in Prospect Park (likely wearing some of my favorite boots and a tough waxed trucker jacket) — how about you? Let me know on Twitter, and let’s keep things rolling along in fine form with the rest of today’s Friday Read — cheers!

  • The good folks at Taylor Stitch always impress me in terms of their commitment to uncompromising quality and style — that’s the case with the brand’s latest take on the remarkable Taylor Stitch Ranch Boots, an extraordinary pair of rugged Chelsea boots that are worth the money. Read more for yourself via my latest at GearMoose.
  • If you’re on the hunt for the unexpected when it comes to the best winter style essentials, have I got a brand for you. Notably, the California-based, surf-inspired and darn-near-legendary team at Birdwell Beach Britches recently debuted a standout winter collection, featuring offerings that range from an expertly washed crewneck sweatshirt to a classic corduroy overshirt. I took a deep dive into the brand for The Manual — prepare to layer up in style!
  • Let’s go back one more time to GearMoose and one of the best winter jackets, as covered by yours truly (naturally). The Barbour Icons Beaufort Jacket is tough, rugged and utterly dependable, even in the worst weather — get the full scoop here.

Alright, my friends — that’ll wrap up today’s take on the best men’s style news and recommendations. However, I do indeed have one more recommendation before you go — this American-made winter jacket from Flint and Tinder is remarkably rugged, well-designed and ready to layer with anything you can dream up (including, preferably, a Birdwell Beach Britches crewneck sweater). Read all about it, try it out, then let me know in the comments how it works out. Thanks for reading!

by Beau H.

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

The perfect winter jacket for the holidays and beyond.

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

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

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

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: The Best Gifts for Men, New Mott and Bow Denim & The Perfect T-Shirt

The right way to gear up for a cozy winter weekend — don’t you agree? Faherty Brand gets it.

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again — ’tis the season to bundle up in style, get your shopping taken care of, and then … kick back with one of the best Christmas beers, right? To help you get started with that first step, might I suggest picking up a Faherty Brand sweater for rugged style and cozy comfort? Something like the essential Faherty Brand Legend Sweater ought to do the trick, don’t you agree? After all, you can never go wrong with a stylish sweater that doubles as a rugged shirt — at least, that’s what I think. You’ll find today’s post is focused on plenty of the best gifts for men, from a well-crafted T-shirt to a new men’s grooming upgrade — there’s no time to waste if you still need to take care of some shopping. Holiday shopping will definitely be on my mind this weekend in NYC, but I’m excited to have some time off to properly take in the sights and sounds of the city.

On that note, I’m venturing into Manhattan on Saturday to fuel up with Birch Coffee, explore Central Park — potentially snapping some photos for my Instagram along the way — and then cap the day off in a big way. I’m heading to a rare evening on Broadway (well, in this case, Off-Broadway) to see a much-hyped production of “Cyrano,” starring Peter Dinklage and featuring music written by none other than members of my favorite band, The National! Lead singer Matt Berninger and his wife, Carin Besser, wrote lyrics for this updated production of “Cyrano,” while brothers Aaron and Bryce Dessner (the multi-instrument virtuosos of the band) wrote music. Talk about an incredible combination — and surely, an incredible production! I really can’t wait. What’s on your weekend to-do list? First things first, check out today’s Friday Read.

  • Let’s get down to holiday gifting, shall we? I mentioned above that we’d dive into a great deal on men’s jeans, and that’s in fact the case here with Mott and Bow. The NYC brand is still going strong when it comes to making some of the best men’s jeans, and this season, they’ve got quite the deal on tap:  Get a free tee with any order of denim — using the code HOLIDAY19! —
  • now through the end of the month. Want more deals on the best men’s jeans and accessories from this excellent brand? It gets better. Use the code (again, HOLIDAY19!) to get a free scarf or hat with orders over $200. The search for the best pair of men’s denim just got a whole lot easier.
  • Alright, so I’m going to point you toward a major grooming upgrade (and a major grooming gift) for the guy in your life this season. Helpfully, Cardon for Men is launching a limited-edition gift set with a special early preview of two products set to launch in January (those two new products would be the Clay Purifying Cleaners and 3-in-1 Hydro Boost Gel Moisturizer). So, that’s a special gift set that also offers an early look at two new potential grooming favorites — what’s not to love about that??
  •  Perhaps you want to pick up a gift for the traveler in your life? Look no further than the richly crafted, well-appointed Tecovas Large Duffle, from the same brand that’s built quite the heritage of making ultra-functional (and stylish) cowboy boots.
  • Speaking of essential gifts, what about the perfect T-shirt? It’s possible now, thanks to General Issue (the work of award-winning designer Susan Woo). This new brand works with factories and like-minded partners in Brooklyn to craft luxurious-yet-accesible basics, resulting in a well-curated line with three items to start. A super-soft short-sleeve tee, a sharp polo, and a casual long-sleeve shawl tee are up for grabs — whoever gets one of these is going to love it, guarnateed.

Alright, that’s going to end my latest rundown of crucial men’s gifts to buy now — there’s plenty more where that came from in the weeks ahead. In the meantime, perhaps you’re interested in reading about even more of the best new menswear releases? From a rugged waxed trucker jacket to the best new leather boots, I guarantee you my latest gear roundup will have something for you (or the stylish fella on your shopping list). Cheers to the season!

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: The Best Men’s Leather Jackets, Stylish Men’s Gifts & Your New Favorite Shirt

A rugged winter shirt fit for all your winter weekend adventures.

Looking toward the weekend? Looking toward shopping some new winter style essentials? I know that’s a YES from me on both accounts. In fact, perhaps the rugged Topo Designs Wool Shirt is on your holiday wish list as seen above? It’s one of the best shirts for winter, apt for layering atop a rugged thermal shirt or heck, a cool concert tee. In fact, speaking of concert tees, I’m looking forward to perhaps picking up a new addition to my collection tonight — I’m heading out to Brooklyn Steel to see indie rockers San Fermin play my favorite venue in the city, with an opening-band assist from equally excellent Brooklyn indie rockers Wild Pink (the makers of one of my favorite albums last year!). When you add in the fact that newly opened brewery 18th Ward Brewing sits mere steps across the street from my favorite venue, well, I’d say that’s a recipe for a great start to the weekend, yes? Yes indeed! The rest of the weekend, I’ll be enjoying Prospect Park and a tasty Old Fashioned or two around the borough. I’ll also be sipping on some rich, delicious Driftaway Coffee — you might recall the brand from my Black Friday sales post, and if you want sustainable and ethical coffee delivered right to your door, there’s hardly a better brand to shop. Of course, it’s also prime holiday gifting season — with that in mind, I give you the best way to start your weekend: Another edition of The Friday Read. Enjoy, and cheers to December!

  • Speaking of gift-giving right off the bat, I coverd 15 stylish gift ideas for men over at GearMoose, ensuring that you’ve got plenty of options — from outerwear to accessories — for the style-minded fella in your life (or yourself!).
  • Let’s stick with GearMoose for a second, shall we? On that note, I wrote all about the best leather jackets for men, from brands like Filson and Taylor Stitch — if you haven’t experienced that first snowfall yet, then there’s hardly a more reliable layer than a tough leather jacket for pairing with your favorite henley and slim blue denim.
  • Lastly, have we talked about a unique way to switch up your men’s shirting rotation? Well, I’m sure we have lately … but we haven’t talked about how an elbow patch shirt can upgrade your winter style — these shirts are fit to be worn on their own or atop a classic white T-shirt or a rugged henley in equal measure.

That’s going to wrap up today’s winter-centric, gift-centric start to the weekend — but wait, there’s more! If you’re still on the hunt for the best gifts for men to take care of the style-minded gentlemen on your list, you might want to check out my roundup of the best winter gear. Parkas, leather boots, tough shirting — it’s all taken care of when it comes to the top new winter style essentials, trust me. OK, that’s all for this weekend!

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: What to Wear for Thanksgiving, Filson’s New Jacket & the Best Corduroy Blazers

This jacket is seriously tough and rugged — perfect for a winter weekend.

Given that it’s a late November weekend, it’s understandable if you’ve got rugged winter style — and holiday gift shopping, for that matter — on the brain. Case in point: Perhaps the excellent Peregrine Bexley Jacket shown above is on your shopping list (or your holiday wish list). And if you weren’t ready for winter before, I’d wager that a rugged waxed jacket is going to help get you ready in a hurry. Again, Peregrine means business — so too, should your winter style. OK, let’s get to the rest of today’s Friday Read. First and foremost, I’m excited to close out a busy week in Brooklyn, which featured a show at the excellent Elsewhere venue in Bushwick by indie rockers Wild Nothing. Yes indeed, it’ll be high time for some much-needed rest and relaxation back home, including a late fall stroll through Prospect Park and an Old Fashioned or two at my favorite bar in Brooklyn. This week was exciting in other ways, too — the lineup was announced for The National Homecoming Festival, an incredible Cincy fest put on by (and celebrating!) my very favorite band … yes, of course, The National. I went to the first edition of the festival in April 2018, and for this go-round, I already have my tickets! Needless to say … I couldn’t be more thrilled to return to Ohio next year! Will I see you there? Let me know on Twitter. In the meantime, be sure to get your weekend started on the right foot with today’s Friday Read.

  • In matters of style, first and foremost, one of the best men’s blazers can take your look from good to great, whether you pair it with your favorite henley or with a crisp Oxford shirt. And there’s something to be said for doing things a bit differently in that regard — like switching up the texture and fabric of your blazer. And on that note … I wrote about my favorite corduory blazers for The Manual, so you can dress for the season with ease.
  • I mentioned above that we’d be telling you about the best men’s winter jackets for the season here, including one from the rugged gear purveyors at Filson. Well, ladies and gentlemen … that time has come. Specifically, I covered the excellent Filson Double Mackinaw Wool Jacket over at GearMoose, and you can rest assured that it’s ready to go anywhere this season (yes, even to Thanksgiving dinner!).
  • Speaking of seasonal dressing — as in, dressing for Thanksgiving dinner — you might find this recent #OOTD covering what to wear on a chily fall day comes in mighty handy as you prep for the rest of November and December.
  • As I mentioned above, it’s been a very, very exciting week in my neck of the woods, as The National Homecoming, the second iteration of the excellent festival put on by my favorite band, returns next May. Read about this terrific festival here.

OK, before you go away for the weekend … stick around with my guide to the best new menswear for fall and winter, why don’t you? I think you’ll find precisely what you’re looking for when it comes to winter style essentials, including a tough shirt jacket, some standout whiskey for fall and winter, and rugged leather boots aplenty. That’s where your weekend should start — where will it take you? Adventure in style & thanks for reading!

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: Michigan Craft Beer, Shinola’s New Watch & The Best Boots for November

If you didn’t feel in the holiday spirit yet, well, step right this way with these rugged Rancourt boots.

Although I’ll be in Brooklyn this weekend (likely wearing a pair of rugged leather boots very similar to the excellent Rancourt & Co. leather boots shown above!), my mind is back on my home state of Michigan, and in particular, my alma mater, Michigan State University. I was just in East Lansing last weekend for a terrific time with old college friends, filled with beers at HopCat (a staple of my senior year) and Crunchy’s, along with some Michigan State football. It’s of course with football in mind that I’ll be enjoying craft beer back in my new home borough this weekend — it’s Michigan vs. Michigan State on Saturday, after all! It’s a rivalry that meant a lot to me as a student, and means even more now that I’m farther away from campus. I’ll be finding a sports bar in Brooklyn to hunker down for the game, likely followed by a round of (hopefully!) celebratory beers at the always-excellent Threes Brewing. If your plans involve college football as well, I wish you nothing but luck! And if they involve more frenzied pursuits — such as starting your holiday shopping early — then I’d suggest you A) Check out the below Friday Read and B) Check out the never-not-outstanding Huckberry 2019 Gift Guide, packed with gear like the above Rancourt & Co. leather boots, plus plenty of stylish stocking stuffers. In the meantime, the below reading and gear picks ought to get you started — agreed?

  • Let’s get this weekend started accordingly the right way, yes? I’m talking, of course, about one of the best new beers to try now, covered by yours truly at GearMoose. That beer would be the rich, utterly satisfying Perrin Brewing S’more Stout, a fittingly inspired beer for cold Michigan (and New York) winters. I can’t wait to get my hands on some when I’m back in the Mitten State.
  • Speaking of my home state of Michigan — as has been on my mind this week — it only makes sense that Shinola would come up in conversation here. In fact, over at GearMoose once more, I covered the Shinola Bronze Monster, a durable, tough-as-heck timepiece with plenty of style points built right in. Did I mention it draws design inspiration from Detroit’s Prohibition smugglers? Yes, it’s got plenty going for it, too. Wear it with your favorite henley and tough chore pants on a chilly winter weekend.
  • OK, let’s keep it rolling when it comes to rugged weekend gear and perhaps more importantly, rugged winter boots. I covered the Danner Pub Garden Boots here on the blog just last week, and if you missed that feature, now’s your chance to catch up. They’re fit for the trail, the town, and indeed, the pub, easily. They’ll also wear particularly well with, say, a classic Barbour jacket and rugged work pants.

OK, those are all the style quick hits and men’s style news updates I’ve got for you this week. If you’re still searching for the best gifts for everyone on your list (and it never hurts to start as early as possible!), well, then head to my roundup of some of the best gear for November. From flannel shirts to chukka boots to the best whiskey glasses for the spirits lover, that post has something for everyone (if I do say so myself). OK, it’s time to get ready for some football. Cheers!

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: A New Leather Flask for Fall, Filson’s Newest Jacket & Everlane’s Uniform Collection

Essential, rugged moc toe leather boots for plenty of occasions.

Let’s step into Friday the right way — with the lowdown on some of the best men’s leather boots for fall. More specifically, the exceptionally rugged and tough Quoddy Bowhunter Boots, some of the toughest and most stylish boots to wear with olive chinos (as shown above), light wash denim (yes, for fall!) or your favorite corduroy pants as we roll into another fall weekend. They’re the kind of stylish leather boots I’ll be wearing this weekend, in fact. On that note: It’s tough to believe it’s November, and even more difficult to believe … it’s been about three years since I visited my alma mater, Michigan State University in East Lansing! The time’s flown since I’ve been back, and together with some former student newspaper friends from The State News, I’ve decided it’s high time I ventured back to the Midwest for a Spartan football game, some tasty beers at HopCat, and a crucial brunch at Beggar’s Banquet — all favorite pursuits during my college days! I have a special place in my heart for the lovely MSU campus & the friendships and memories I made along the way — it’ll be wonderful to return home! There will of course be tailgating and cold beer aplenty throughout the weekend once I arrive on an early-morning flight into Detroit, and I’m also seriously looking forward to taking in some classic Michigan fall weather as my beloved Michigan State Spartans play Illinois. Naturally, I’ll be wearing some of my favorite fall style essentials along the way — what about your weekend plans? Let me know on Twitter, be sure to check out tomorrow’s Style Pick of the Week, and kick off your weekend nice and early with today’s Friday Read. Go Green!

So, that’s the end of today’s brief-yet-hopefully enlightening Friday Read. Because weekend fun is never done, though, I’m going to leave you with my recommendation for perhaps the best fall jacket, one you can wear with ease atop your favorite Oxford shirt alongside slim faded denim. It’s a surefire combo for all your top casual fall pursuits, from apple orchard visits to brewery tours & beyond. Cheers to the weekend, my friends!

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: The Best Men’s Parkas, New Rye Whiskey & the Huckberry Fall Catalog

The perfect boots (from Huckberry’s fall catalog!) to break in all season — courtesy of Helm Boots, of course.

This assuredly won’t be the last you see of the Helm Boots Hollis Boots as shown above —  in fact, they’re just the latest and greatest pair of must-buy boots for fall and winter, and they’re being served up here via the Huckberry Fall Catalog (more on all of that in just a second). The long and short of it is that you should expect nothing less than the best when it comes to your cold-weather gear — the sort of gear that works for fall and winter weekends aplenty. November is a big month on the style front, a time to stretch your legs in some new denim, break in some of the best new leather boots, and generally enjoy the approaching holiday season (we’re past Halloween, after all!). Coming off of a long weekend trip to Boston (as seen on my Instagram), I’m looking forward to once again enjoying a classic Brooklyn fall weekend — for me, that means strolls through Prospect Park and Marine Park in the borough, plus a visit to the recently opened Evil Twin Brewery in Queens! Evil Twin has been a revered and nearly mysterious gypsy brewer (without a permanent brewing space) for some time in the city now, and it’s only fitting that this newly opened location appears to have been worth the wait. To put it lightly: I’m wildly excitedd to visit! And if it reflects as well on the brewery’s innovative and richly crafted beer as it should (Molotov Cocktail, anyone??), I’d say it’ll be a hallowed new addition to the Brooklyn craft beer scene. The options for great beer abound in the city, as does the opportunity to enjoy prime fall weather. What are your weekend plans? Hopefully, your weekend involves great food, delicious craft beer, strong coffee and perhaps some winning football. Connect with me on Twitter, and check out the below Friday reads in the meantime. Let’s do this!

  • As I mentioned above, Huckberry just launched the new Huckberry Fall Catalog, and it’s packed to the gills with stylish shirting, tough outerwear, rugged leather boots and an all-around sense of adventure that only Huckberry can truly bring to the table. The guys and gals at Huckberry always know how to stock and sell gear that goes and goes when it comes to fall and winter pursuits — if you’re not at least taking a quick spin through the catalog, you’re missing out on a bevy of men’s style essentials (take it from me).
  • If it hasn’t started to hit you yet, it will soon enough — that is, the chilly weather of late fall (and eventually, winter!). Before it gets too late, grab one of the best men’s parkas via my latest feature for The Manual, will ya? There are picks at nearly every price point and style, from an above-the-waist hooded parka from Howler Brothers to a beastly, military-inspired Nobis parka. OK, time to get  shopping.
  • So, you know what you’re going to wear to bundle up on a fall or winter weekend — what are you sipping on? How about some new Elijah Craig rye whiskey, yes? It’ll make for a simple and lovely pour on the rocks or in an Old Fashioned — and you can get the full rundown via my latest for GearMoose.
  • Let’s keep things rolling when it comes to the best men’s jackets for fall and winter, alright? I had the chance to cover the excellent, perfectly rugged Relwen Channel Stretch Boarder, a tough, dependable jacket fit for travel and plenty of exploration through the great outdoors (yes, even in nasty weather). Head over to GearMoose to check it out.

Before the weekend hits, make sure you’re geared up accordingly — that is to say, make sure you’ve got access to plenty of the best style essentials for fall and winter (especially now that it’s *gasp* November!). I think you’ll find the list I’ve linked there, from high-top sneaker boots to an iconic leather jacket, you’ve got everything you need for a fall and winter weekend. OK, that’s all I’ve got for you today. Cheers to a fall weekend!