Tag / the friday read

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: Mo Pop Festival, The Best Camping Gear And the Best Shaving Cream for Men

Come along with me, plug in and enjoy yet another Friday Read as we kick off the last weekend in July, Style Guide readers — how crazy is that?? I’ve loved spending time everywhere from Grand Rapids to Detroit (and the tasty Batch Brewing!), and I know there are so many more adventures ahead. Starting, of course, with this weekend! The always-excellent Mo Pop Festival takes place at the city’s West Riverfront Park, and we’re thrilled to be able to see a diverse slate of acts, from Bon Iver to Alvvays (a favorite of both of ours!). Wondering what I’m packing? For starters, I’ll be wearing my Filson Feather Cloth Short-Sleeve Shirt! You can stay tuned on my Instagram for more, as always.

Elsewhere on the blog, it’s really been quite the month. We’ve covered a ton of stellar menswear as of late, if I do say so myself. From the best denim jacket to buy now to a stylish polo for summer adventures — and plenty of summer style shopping suggestions — I hope you’ve found this month’s content enlightening, engaging and yes, helpful. With all of that being said, I’ve got a flight to catch — and some tunes to enjoy! Have a great weekend.

  • Alright, folks — there’s still time to shop the Mid-Year Clearance Sale from a preferred brand around these parts, Todd Shelton. This New Jersey-based, classically designed and carefully constructed brand makes everything from easy-to-wear T-shirts to standout denim to classic chambray shirts, and I’d recommend you shop their sale now.
  • Planning one final camping trip or out-of-town getaway? Might I point you in the direction of this recent #OOTD featuring the best camping gear to wear now? From a tough waxed overshirt to essential Danner hiking boots, you really can’t go wrong.
  • If you’re on the hunt for your perfect shave, I’d implore you to read my latest GearMoose feature, covering the best shaving creams for men. Get to it ASAP!

We’ll closing the books on another week here — what’s in store for you this weekend? Whatever your plans might be, I recommend you check out tomorrow’s Style Pick of the Week — you certainly won’t regret it.

Thanks for reading!

 

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: The Best Denim Jacket to Buy Now, Grimm Artisanal Ales and Sunday Brunch Style

It’s been a busy couple of weeks here on the blog, even outside of regular menswear writing pursuits and #NYFWM. Last weekend, I was excited and thrilled to be back in my home state of Michigan to celebrate the wedding reception of two great friends (congrats to the Vissers!). Of course, you probably saw that if you follow me on Instagram (wink, wink). It was a lovely evening complete with some fun dancing and plenty of Bell’s Oberon in the Michigan heat.

I wore my Thursday Boots Statesman Dress Shoes (shop them in this post!) and a charcoal Awearness Kenneth Cole suite, along with a crisp Todd Snyder dress shirt. We capped off the weekend by visiting Belle Isle Park, home to the Belle Isle Conservatory and Aquarium (again, as seen on my Instagram!). It was a beautiful day to explore and get outside, even in the heat — it’s a good thing that we capped off the day with a trip to Batch Brewing Company in Detroit, located near the West Side Industrial area and featuring easily drinkable beers like the Berggasse 19, a Vienna lager with some rich flavor. In the meantime, I’m hoping your week is closing out nicely — I’ve got some brews to enjoy, and some menswear to write about. The rest of your Friday Read is below!

  • Haven’t been keeping up with our ongoing See Now, Buy Now series here on the blog? Then let me get ya updated on one of my favorite recent entries — last week, I told you all about how the Flint and Tinder Denim Trucker Jacket can work as the perfect summer layer, able to pair with a rugged henley and chinos or an Oxford shirt and slim chino shorts in equal measure. Read the post here.
  • It’s hard to find but delicious to drink — I’m talking, of course, about the coveted Lambo Door Double IPA from Brooklyn’s own Grimm Artisanal Ales. I’m looking forward to checking out their brand-new, permanent East Williamsburg location very soon, but for now, I’d say I’ll have to make do with re-reading my latest feature for GearMoose covering this excellent & uniquely crushable brew.

  • I’m all about upgrading your style in unexpected ways for everyday situations — take Sunday brunch, for instance. Your focus should be on dressing in a way that’s casual and comfortable, yet also distinct and versatile — hence, my latest feature on what to wear for Sunday brunch over at The Manual! Who else wants a Bloody Mary now?
  • Not in the mood to pack away your boots even as the thermostat climbs? Then, the OluKai Nalukai Boots, as covered in last week’s Style Pick of the Week, are the lightweight option you need to buy now, and wear now.

Loyal Style Guide readers, thanks for sticking it out until the end today! Join us again tomorrow for a brand-new Style Pick of the Week, and let’s all try to stay cool out there. Until then!

-Beau

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: New York Fashion Week: Men’s, Timex x Todd Snyder and Grand Rapids

Phew — it’s Friday. It’s not just any Friday, though — it’s a fine and fun summer Friday. Yes, that’s right!As if that wasn’t exciting enough, it was followed by one of busier times of the year for yours truly — that’d be New York Fashion Week: Men’s! Now, if you follow me on Instagram, perhaps you kept up with that action. If not, come along for the ride! Coming off the Fourth of July holiday, it was quite a way to jump back into the fray of NYC with New York Men’s Day, a series of showcases celebrating up-and-coming designers on Monday morning. A mix of edgy and classic brands — led by the seriously cool Krammer Stoudt and tailoring impresario David Hart  — headed up the pack at the morning showing I attended. With athleisure and futuristic, surprising silhouettes aplenty, it’s different than what I normally wear or see — and that’s not a bad thing at all!


Oh, and there were traditional shows, too — like that of lauded American menswear designer Todd Snyder on Wednesday night, a personal favorite who sent a collection of breezy tailoring and sportswear down the runway. Talk about a serious highlight! I also loved checking out the beautiful luxury leather goods from Mark Cross, billed as “America’s first luxury leather goods brand,” one with serious cache at that. The wares are very expensive, to be sure, but very beautiful (take the Baker Overnight Bag, for instance).  All of that being said, it was quite hectic to balance at all — particularly when my Tuesday night also included the chance to check out a special concert by French indie pop-rock luminaries Phoenix! Across a decades-long career, Phoenix captured my attention way back in 2009 with seminal album “Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix,” and 2017’s “Ti Amo” is just as beautifully crafted and enjoyable to listen to — especially with a cold beer in hand! But again, phew. It’s Friday. I’m engaged! And I’m heading back to Michigan for the weekend, too! So. Let’s get to the Friday Read!

  • There’s a darn good chance that by the time you read this, this watch will be sold out. To which watch am I referring? That’d be the elegant, affordably priced Timex x Todd Snyder Blackout Marlin Watch, a beautiful and highly attainable timepiece to wear with your best suit to a summer wedding.
  • By now, I’d wager most of us have listened to and enjoyed some tracks off rapper Drake’s new album, “Scorpion.” If you’re a Spotify user, you’ve also seen his image on many, many playlists on the platform. Why is that? As what you might call a devout music nerd, I found this piece from Pitchfork quite enlightening, even if I’m not the biggest hip-hop fan.
  • Last but not least, I’m going to point you toward a recent menswear shopping entry on this site, seeing as we could all use some guidance (or new ideas?) when it comes to summer style essentials for this season. There’s still plenty of time to stock up, so get to it accordingly.

Folks, that’s going to do it for this (somewhat short) Friday Read. Wishing you all a great weekend! For me, that means it’s time to hit the road. Cheers!

-Beau

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: Duke Cannon, Summer Style Essentials and New Denim from Taylor Stitch

Folks, how was your Fourth of July?? I hope it was filled with plenty of fun, relaxation, some summer style essentials for the holiday … and, yes a cold brew and a tasty hot dog or burger (or two or three!) on the grill. I’ve actually  been  on vacation myself in the rolling countryside of Zeeland (Michigan!) these past few days celebrating the holiday with my whole family — my brother, his wife and four children, and my mom and dad. I truly can’t wait! It’s been a much-needed break from the hustle and bustle of NYC, but I’ve still found the time to unplug, kick back and dress in style (check out my Instagram for more there). I hope you have, too. On another note, we’re also going to ensure your weekend starts off the right way, including recommendations for grooming essentials and stylish new denim aplenty. What could be better? We’ll see you for tomorrow’s Style Pick of the Week, and I’m wishing you a great weekend!

  • Perhaps you, like me, are constantly in search of a grooming refresh. If that’s the case, I can’t recommend the work being done by Duke Cannon enough. I’ve had the chance over this past week to continue exploring the brand’s line, from the refreshing Solid Cologne to the sharp News Anchor Forming Cream, which helps me style my ‘do in new ways (I’ve recently been trying out what you might call a “hard side part”). I also love the lightweight finish and refreshing feel of the Standard Issue Face Lotion, along with the essential Best Damn Beard Oil. It’s really a comprehensive approach that’s super high-quality.  If you follow me on Instagram, you can expect to see new content featuring their durable products very soon. Again, I’d wholeheartedly recommend the dependable quality and agreeable pricing that you’re getting with Duke Cannon.

 

  • Allow me to offer up another recommendation here when it comes to men’s style essentials — you can’t beat hard-working basics. Pieces that work every day and in every season. And you really can’t beat hard-working basics from a brand like Taylor Stitch. I’m going to be testing out pieces like the  Taylor Stitch Heavy Bag Tee and the incredible-looking Taylor Stitch Slim Jeans in Cone Mills Standard — you can expect lots more on those stellar, essential basics in the coming weeks here on The Style Guide and via my Instagram.
  • Now, we’ve talked before about how necessary and essential a pair of stylish light wash jeans can be, even in summer. With that in mind, here’s a refresher on my favorite light wash jeans for The Manual.

That’s going to close out today’s Friday Read, folks. I hope you all have a safe, fun and enjoyable holiday weekend! Cheers!

-Beau

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: TRIWA Watches, Adidas Sneakers and New Summer Style Essentials from Huckberry

It’s a rainy Thursday evening in New York as I sit down to type this post, but luckily, I’ve got plenty of memories of a sunny, amazing Florida trip to look back on this past weekend (if you follow me on Instagram, you’re well aware of the trip!). At any rate, it’s nice to be closing out a long work week on the fashion PR grind. That brings me quite nicely to my next point — with the Fourth of July falling in the middle of next week, it’s high time you loaded up on summer style essentials for the holiday. To help with that quest, I compiled the best deals from Huckberry this week, from camping gear to new menswear. They won’t last long — count on it. Alternatively, you’d also do quite well to shop this week’s edition of The List, a shopping series that’s packed with men’s style essentials for rugged getaways and easygoing vacations alike.  Lastly, if you’re struggling with what to wear for the Fourth of July, I’d point you toward our #OOTD series here on the ole blog.

  • It’s time to throw on the summer shirt you didn’t know you need — the easy, versatile, breezy popover shirt. I’m in need of a stylish popover shirt myself, and this list of the best popover shirts for men from GQ.com should prove quite helpful.

  • Sneakerheads, here you go — for an agreeable price, you can get sporty, lightweight summer style courtesy of the Adidas F/22 Primeknit. Learn more via my latest footwear feature for GearMoose (wink, nudge).
  • Perhaps my favorite summer knit might be the trusty, rugged short-sleeve henley. There are plenty of great brands making nice iterations out there, and it’s with that spirit in mind that I wrote about the best short-sleeve henleys for The Manual this week.

  • TRIWA is a new watch company — to me at least — that stands out from the pack. Quite stylishly, too. Here’s the gist: They make durable timepieces with, among other products, recycled plastic. And they’re at it again with a new launch — the TRIWA x HUMANIUM METAL Watch is a new favorite of mine (you know that if you’ve checked out my Instagram Stories this week!). Soon enough, you can get your hands on one for yourself — at least, if you pre-fund the partnership now. This tough, hard-wearing, rugged watch will be made from destructed illegal firearms and will serve as a solution to gun-related violence in conflict-torn societies — that’s pretty neat, right? Right.

That’s going to do it for me today, folks. Up next this week: Potentially, a show by revered British shoegaze pioneers Slowdive at the Brooklyn House of Vans this weekend … maybe. In the meantime, I’ll be tracking down some iced coffee, shopping for a bit of menswear, and generally enjoying life! Beer in hand, ideally.

Thanks for reading!

-Beau

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: Fort Myers, The Best Sunscreen for Men and Summer Denim

I don’t know about you, but your Style Guide author sure is ready for the weekend. It’s not just any old weekend, either. No sir, I’m headed to Florida — lovely Fort Myers, in fact — to spend time with my parents and my incredible girlfriend, Laura! If you don’t follow her blog, you absolutely should; it’s got something for everyone, from the best new music to style on a budget. I certainly enjoy reading it! Aside from our blogging pursuits, I know that we’re both looking forward to a little time off from our day jobs (Laura in marketing, mine in PR), along with soaking up some Florida sun. You can, of course, follow along with all of our adventures on Instagram in the meantime. It’ll be the first time I’ve been in Florida since a birthday weekend at Disney World, and I really can’t wait. If you’re hitting the road, might I recommend that you bring along a stylish carry-on bag for the occasion?  And if you need something to read, well, the below pieces ought to get your weekend started the right way. Cheers!

  • Taking care of your skin is as important as making sure your summer style essentials are on-point this season — seriously! That’s why I wrote about the best sunscreens for men over at GearMoose! Ch-ch-check it out.

  • I’m always a fan of the relatable, useful style content put together by the team at Valet — that’s why I think you’d do well to read up about how to wear a long-sleeve shirt this summer (and on a side note, you should absolutely check out my post here on how to wear a chambray shirt in the heat!).
  • Fancy starting your weekend with a little shopping? Esquire.com rounded up the best accessories under $100 — there really is something for everyone on this list.
  • Let’s wrap things up by talking about essential summer denim. If you, like me, simply can’t get enough of your favorite denim, you might want to check out my recent write-up on the Warren Denim from Mott and Bow — they’re lightweight and easy-to-wear, no matter the temperature.

That’ll round out today’s Friday Read, folks! Be sure to check out tomorrow’s Style Pick of the Week, guaranteed to get you into the spirit of summer style accordingly.

Thanks for reading,

-Beau

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: Zodiac Watches, What to Wear on a Boat This Summer and the Best Beers to Drink Now

My dear friends, we’ve reached the conclusion of another exciting week here at The Style Guide! I’m really looking forward to some shopping, some tasty beer and cider, plus a few delicious meals here. So, with the start of the weekend ahead, I’ll leave you to check out this week’s fun reads, as selected by yours truly. Cheers!

  • Hitting the water this weekend? Dress in style with my essential picks for what to wear on a boat this season. You absolutely can’t go wrong with my selections — at least, I think so. Shop now, hurry!
  • Laura is a great writer with an eye for style (check out her Instagram!) and an ear for excellent music — if you read her guest post on the blog a few weeks ago, you surely know that. With new tunes for the weekend in mind, I’d urge you to check out her recent Playlist Friday post, covering some of the best new music out there! Plug in and let’s look forward to the weekend, ehh?

  • As we always talk about here on The Style Guide, investing in the right kind of pieces can go a long way. Take the Zodiac Super Sea Wolf, last week’s Style Pick of the Week on the blog. It’s unstoppable, it’s durably crafted and it’s tough as heck. Oh, and it’ll set you back a cool grand-plus. But hey, we can dream, right?
  • I’m always a fan of a tasty, flavorful and well-crafted beer. Particularly in the summer months, when the right beer can help you decompress and remind you of home. In the spirit of great drinking, I wrote about the best summer beers for GearMoose. I hope y’all enjoy! Cheers!

That’ll do it for me today in this edition of the Friday Read. Check out this essential casual shirt from Bridge & Burn for all your weekend adventures if you still need something to read. And with that, I bid you farewell! Until tomorrow’s Style Pick of the Week, that is. Thanks for reading!

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: Stitch Fix, North & Mark and the Best Men’s Pocket Tees

We’ve had quite a lot going on around The Style Guide as of late, from a recent trip to Detroit (Editor’s note: Check out my amazing girlfriend Laura’s guide to things to do in Detroit!) to quite a few neat #menswear events here in NYC — one of which you’ll learn about below! Along the way, I’ve carved out some to listen to some new tunes — the new CHVRCHES album “Love is Dead” has been on heavy rotation — and I’ve tried some tasty new beer to kick off summer. On that note, Corona Premier is a pleasingly light, easy-to-drink beer that still harnesses some nice flavor (thanks to the brand for sending over some test brews!). While I love a hefty New England or West Coast IPA — of which you can find a good deal of in Brooklyn — I’ve still got a soft spot for a Corona and a day spent catching some sun.

But, back to business. Let’s talk about the watch you need for summer adventures. Or conversely, the classic white tee to wear with everything this season. Or perhaps, a stylish short-sleeve shirt is more your speed this weekend. Whatever tickles your fancy, hopefully, we can help you find it. On that note, we’re looking into a few handy, helpful seasonal style matters today, a new outerwear brand and classic pocket tees among them. So for now, I’ll say farewell. Happy reading, happy shopping … oh, and cheers!

  • Have you heard of or used Stitch Fix? I was able to give this personal styling service a try last fall via my Instagram and blog, but at any rate, GQ.com took a closer look at the inner workings of this fast-moving platform recently. You decide whether the service is for you, I’d say.
  • I had the chance last week to check out the launch of North & Mark, a highly functional, highly stylish outerwear brand that makes its gear in NYC and draws inspiration from the Windy City.  From four-way stretch blazers — tailored but easy to wear over a classic white tee to the office — to clean and classic overcoats and a heck of a stylish belted trench coat, this is one brand that’s certainly going to help you up your outerwear game when the weather calls for it.
  • Esquire.com has been tracking the best songs of 2018 (so far), and I’m having a tough time picking my favorite from this list. For this self-proclaimed Indie Rock Dad (Editor’s note: Actually not a father!), it just might be “What a Time to be Alive” by revered North Carolina rockers Superchunk. What’s your pick from that list?
  • Perhaps most helpfully for y’all, I wrote up some of the best men’s pocket tees for GearMoose.com. My favorite from this list? The Taylor Stitch Heavy Bag Tee, naturally.

That’s going to do it for today’s Friday Read. Still need something to read or something to shop? Start with my list of the best summer style essentials. Then, read why you need this timeless navy polo in your closet for summer. All set? All set.

Cheers!

-Beau

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: Taylor Stitch Denim, Memorial Day Weekend and Pure Michigan

Folks, who else is amped for the official (or is it technically unofficial?) start of summer? And by a show of hands, who here is taking some styling inspiration from this week’s post on what to wear for Memorial Day weekend? I hope you found those tips and tricks handy — and I hope you checked out this week’s edition of The List, featuring a whole bunch of summer style essentials to shop for Memorial Day weekend. If all of that shopping hasn’t kept you busy enough, know that we’ve got a few choice #menswear reads below to help you kick off your weekend. I personally can’t wait for some much-needed time off. I capped off a PR event at my day job on Tuesday night, and I’m positively PUMPED to head back to my home state to see my  wonderful girlfriend, Laura! If you haven’t yet checked out Laura’s blog, I’d suggest you give it a read — her Playlist Friday posts are a particular favorite of mine! She also does a standout job covering women’s fashion on a budget — we all know I approve of style on a budget! As it were, I was in the Mitten last weekend for a trip with Laura’s family to Mackinaw City, and this coming weekend promises plenty of fun. On the agenda: A helping of Michigan craft beer, some easygoing backyard grilling and some exploration of Detroit — always a highlight! To keep up with all the fun, check out my Instagram, if you feel so inclined. For now, let’s get your weekend going with the below fun links. Cheers!

  • We’ll kick things off with a post that’s really of the essence here — Taylor Stitch is offering up a rare pair of slim light wash denim for your shopping pleasure. Namely, the brand’s Slim Jeans in 24-Month Wash come from Cone Mills — the legendary denim mill shut down last year, and the material the brand used in these jeans is one-of-a-kind. I’d get on it ASAP!
  • In the spirit of summer style, I rounded up the best summer T-shirts for men over at The Manual. Seriously, don’t doubt the style potential of a classic T-shirt — these picks are fit for layering under a rugged denim jacket or a slim blazer, or wearing all on their own. Trust me.
  • I mentioned this earlier, but if you glazed over that part of the post (shame on you!), then you’d do well to shop the latest edition of The List, covering essential summer gear galore — you’ve got no excuse now.

We’re going to close up shop just a bit early today, all in the spirit of enjoying some time off this weekend. Check back for tomorrow’s Style Pick of the Week, and we’ll catch ya later!

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: A Rugged Men’s Henley, Favorites from Shinola and A Michigan Weekend

 

Snapped by my amazing girlfriend Laura — a heck of a talented photographer — exploring Detroit recently. I layered up with my Grayers Edgeware Cotton Moto Jacket!

We made it to Friday, and another Friday Read— cheers! For me as of late, the week’s end has been especially fun and meaningful — Friday has often meant a trip back to the Midwest (to The National Homecoming festival, for instance), or back to my home state of Michigan (like Detroit, shown above!) to see my lovely girlfriend, Laura! And that’s the case this Friday as well — we’re heading north to Mackinaw City to experience a bit of early summer fun “up North,” as we Michigan natives like to say. What does the weekend have in store for you? Whatever the case might be, I hope it’s packed with some #menswear shopping, some craft brews (or your beverage of choice), and great times with family and friends. As for me? Well, I’ve got a flight to catch. But you should feel more than free to stick around and make yourself at home. You’ll enjoy this week’s style reads, and you’ll certainly get a kick out of tomorrow’s Style Pick of the Week. Thanks for reading!

  • In need of a new, rugged henley for spring and summer? This classic henley from Faherty Brand ought to do the trick — it’s our most recent Style Pick here on the site.
  • The fine folks at Shinola excel — and I mean, simply EXCEL — at producing all manner of beautiful lifestyle goods that anyone can appreciate. With that in mind, I picked out my five favorites from Shinola for The Manual! Shop now, will ya?
  • The fine art of crafting stylish men’s shoes is something I’ve always found fascinating — the folks at Gear Patrol tend to agree on that front. I found their recent interview with John Lofgren (maker of everything from high-top sneakers to durable boots) to be seriously cool.
  • Now that we’re ticking toward Memorial Day, you’re probably wondering … what should I wear? Rest assured that we’ll have a full ensemble coming next week, but in the meantime, you should certainly check out this #OOTD (from the blog!) on how to wear stylish shorts this summer. Cheers!

Ready for the weekend? I know I sure as heck am. Can’t wait! Thanks for sticking around, and be sure to check out my Instagram for the scoop on all of this weekend’s Michigan adventures.

-Beau