Tag / the style guide

by Beau H.

#OOTD: How to Dress for a Music Festival This Summer

Can you feel it in the air? Yes? No? Maybe you can … hear it? That’s right, summer festival season is upon us, truly now.  And of course, with that comes a crucial question: How to dress for a music festival this summer?  If you already made the pilgrimage to the two-weekend extravaganza that is Coachella, you surely got a taste of what’s to come: Hot weather and crowds filled with far-too-trendy teens. I kid, I kid — we all know there’s excellent music and cold beer to be had, too. Whether you’re gearing up to attend NYC’s Governors Ball this weekend — as I will be — or a festival a bit later in the summer (like Panorama or Bonnaroo), we’ll set you up with simple-yet-stylish gear to take you festival-hopping from stage to stage, all day long. It’s about style that’s ready for anything, namely. Whether there’s rain and a slight breeze or a brutal sun high in the sky, I think the below #OOTD is versatile and comfortable — not to mention ready for a rock concert during the rest of the year. What will you be wearing to your next music festival? I hope it includes some of the below pieces. And if you still have questions, get style inspiration via my Instagram. Oh, and join me on Twitter for daily #menswear tips.

Mixing a classic chambray shirt with slim jeans and comfortable slip-ons — ready for plenty of festivals in the months ahead.

The Shirt: Old Navy Slim-Fit Chambray Shirt in Dark Chambray, $26.94 — While others might be reaching for neon tank-tops or … dare I say … male rompers (yikes), outdo ’em all with a classic — a slim short-sleeve chambray shirt. It’s not a stretch to say every guy looks good in one, and I think you’ll like the results if you buy this one.
Sutro Footwear
The Extra Layer: Outerknown Evolution Shirt Jacket, $195 — There’s a good chance you might not need this shirt-jacket at all, but should it start to rain or get chilly, you’ve got a handy, stylish and easily packable layer in the Outerknown Evolution Shirt Jacket. It’s not the most colorful jacket, but it’ll get the job done.

The Denim: Abercrombie & Fitch Super Skinny Jeans in Light Wash, $39  — Slim jeans in a pleasing light wash are as much of a concert essential as they are a summer essential — these feature stretch for comfort and an excellent price (comfort for your wallet, if you will).

The Shoes: SWIMS Breeze Leap Laser Loafer, $150 Look, I love a pair of rugged leather boots for a concert as much as the next guy — but if conditions get overly hot, you want shoes that are easy to wear, easy to clean and still stylish. The Breeze Leap Laser Loafer is your answer there (I wore a pair of SWIMS to the 2016 Governors Ball festival—  with great results, too!).
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The Socks: Arvin Goods No-Show Socks (Three-pack), $22.98 — Although you might be wearing laidback slip-on sneakers, don’t forgo no-show socks — they help any pair of stylish spring footwear last longer, for one. And with Arvin Goods, you get a handy three-pack for the whole weekend.

The Watch: Timex Waterbury Diver Chronograph, $130  — An affordable, tough and stylish men’s dive watch for under $150? Can’t be true, can it? That’s what you get with the Timex Waterbury Diver Chronograph, a recent addition to the brand’s line — perhaps the best-looking watch at any festival you attend.

The Sunglasses: Electric Bengal Sunglasses, $100 — When packing for a festival, it’s all too easy to throw a cheap pair of fluorescent sunglasses in your bag. Don’t — especially not when you can snag the stylish, retro-inspired and affordable (yet well-made!) Bengal Sunglasses seen here.

The Pre-Festival Must-Have: JBL E55BT Wireless On-Ear Headphones, $149.95 — What better way to prep for a festival than listening to your favorite artists? After testing out the JBL E55BT Headphones this spring, I can confidently recommend their stellar sound and sleek looks.

Oxfords under $50 CAD_728x90The Everyday Carry: Nisolo Lori Tote, $144.98 — Whether you bring a portable charger, a bottle of sunscreen (I like Tread for Men grooming) or a jacket, you need a bag to carry all that gear — the handsome Nisolo Lori Tote is that bag.

Make no mistake, folks — dressing for a music festival isn’t necessarily easy business …. unless you grab tried-and-true style essentials, ranging from a slim short-sleeve chambray shirt to essential light wash denim.  Couple that with easy-to-wear, weather-ready slip-ons, the versatile Outerknown Evolution Shirt Jacket and tough accessories — like a rugged dive watch — and you’re set for a long day of stellar music. And to carry around your gear, I can’t think of a more stylish bag than the Nisolo Lori Tote. The little details matter, too — that’s why I’d also urge you to pick up a pair of no-show socks from Arvin Goods. Oh, and don’t forget that handy sheet of set times — I’d wager you’ll be so focused on the music that this essential, versatile outfit will become an afterthought as you rock out. That’s what we want, right? At any rate, I hope you enjoy your summer festival season in style.

Thanks for reading!

-Beau

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Norton Point Charlie 014 Sunglasses

The classically inspired and uniquely stylish sunglasses you need now.

We’ve reached that critical time of the early summer season – you’re heading to the beach or the pool, you reach into your desk drawer or glove compartment looking for your trusty sunglasses … and they’re gone. Forgotten in the scramble to dress for the polar vortex this past winter. What are you going to do? Well, the easy answer is to be prepared in the first place – that is to say, you’re going to want to upgrade your summer style with a pair of stylish men’s sunglasses, ASAP. And given that it’s Memorial Day weekend and all – with ample time to recognize the occasion and enjoy lovely weather – you should hop to it as soon as possible. Which brings us to today’s Style Pick of the Week:  The Norton Point Charlie 014 Sunglasses. Yessir, mark my words – these are the stylish sunglasses to pair with all of your summer essentials. That goes for slim light wash jeans and a classic pocket tee to stylish swim trunks and a rugged short-sleeve henley – and we’re really just getting started.  Why is now the time to drop a bit of cash on sunglasses? For one, that versatility we always talk about is key – a classic pair of sunglasses can be worn with everything from a tailored suit at a summer wedding to your best beach gear; these aren’t your average athletic-minded sunglasses, and they certainly aren’t a cheap grocery store pair. Even if you’ve got a tendency to misplace sunglasses, I’d argue that buying a nicer pair means you’ll keep much, much better track of them.

There’s a reason classic sunglasses like the Clubmaster-inspired Norton Point Charlie 014 Sunglasses have such staying power. Like the very best pieces in menswear – a tough chambray shirt, dark blue denim or an essential henley – they offer a shot of classic style, timeless appeal and the rugged good looks that instantly amp up your style credibility. Even if you’re not built like James Bond, the Norton Point Charlie 014 Sunglasses look extremely sharp, no matter the situation or pairing. And when you team them up with the aforementioned summer style essentials? That’s a winning combo. These Norton Point sunglasses eschew the neon colors of, say, spring break sunglasses, and they avoid the tendencies of some high-fashion sunglasses, which can sometimes look … a bit off. It’s with those keys in mind that your humble Style Guide author can confidently recommend these Norton Point sunglasses  for summer weekends and beyond. They’re exactly the type of sunglasses you should have handy when you plan out what to pack for your next road trip, and they’re a reliably ready everyday pair, too. Who know sunglasses could be so essential? Or so easy to keep track of? Let me know what you think of the Norton Point sunglasses  via Twitter, or leave a note in the comments below.

Good luck out there, enjoy the weekend and stay stylish!

-Beau

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Sutro Shoes Inc.

by Beau H.

#OOTD: What to Wear to a Weekend Barbecue

You just got word that there’s a barbecue this weekend. Craft beer? Check. Burgers? You got it. But what #menswear to wear to man the grill or just hang out while sipping brews? We’ve got you covered today on The Style Guide — from A-to-Z, this is the place to be. It’s a little bit different than, say, dressing for a spring bar crawl — it’s more casual and requires gear that’s as stylish as it is suited to wear to play a little pick-up football. And you’ll want an extra layer in case the party runs late or it gets chilly out there. So, we’re keeping it cool and laidback with today’s #OOTD. You’ll recognize upgraded basics — from a classic bomber jacket to a sturdy striped tee — and you’ll recognize tried-and-true favorites like stylish brown leather sneakers and slim light wash jeans.  See? Comfortable, casual and classic style at its finest. But, I won’t spoil all the fun now. Check out the full set of #menswear picks below, chime in on Twitter and see how I style my daily ensembles over on Instagram (lotsa clothes on the ‘Gram, trust me). Enjoy, cheers and be sure to man the grill!

Outerknown

Start with a supremely high-quality tee and go from there with casual spring layers.

The T-Shirt: Outerknown Shonan Stripe Pocket T-Shirt, $62.98 —  Let’s start things off the right way — with a sustainably made and uniquely stylish striped pocket T-shirt. Yes indeed, the Outerknown Shonan Stripe Pocket T-Shirt is pricey, yes …. but ultimately worth it. Just don’t spill any mustard on it.

The Jacket: Outlier Supermarine Soft Core Bomber Jacket, $595 — First off, this jacket surely is pricey. But why go for a paper-thin bomber jacket from a fast-fashion retailer when you can get a comfortable, stylish and very performance-ready piece fit for spring breezes and beyond?

Florsheim
The Jacket: Flint and Tinder All-American Washed Jeans in Slim Tapered, $98  — I’m all for investing in quality — and that’s exactly what Flint and Tinder brings to the table. These slim-fit light wash jeans have a pleasing light wash that’s perfect for spring.
The Sneakers: Pikolinos Vic Trainers, $200 — While you might be tempted to break out the flip-flops, leave those in the closet this time. These beautifully crafted leather sneakers feature everything from a rich brown colorway to cool and eye-catching stitching.

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The Watch: Nautica SYD Leather Watch, $125 — Nothing screams barbecue-ready style than a tough, rugged and stylish watch. This Nautica timepiece looks unique and crisp — it can definitely stand up to a game of backyard football, too.

The Bottle Opener: Billykirk Bottle Opener, $17.98 — Here’s the piece de resistance, perhaps the most crucial item in your everyday carry for this barbecue — the Billykirk Bottle Opener should be the hit of the party, ehh?

The Beer: Founders Brewing All Day IPA, Price Varies — It might be the Michigan native in me coming through, but there might not be a better summer BBQ beer than Founder’s All Day IPA. I absolutely love visiting the brewery when I trek back to Grand Rapids, and that won’t change soon!

The Bag: Nisolo Lori Tote, $134.98 — OK, so you’ve got your six-pack of craft beer, you’ve got your slim bomber jacket, you’re wearing your stylish striped tee — how are you going to carry everything you need to carry? In the durable and handsome Nisolo Lori Tote, I should say.

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And, there it is. All set for your first summer barbecue? With classic, easy-to-wear pieces like a slim bomber jacket and the Outerknown Shonan Stripe Pocket T-Shirt, I’d say you should be all set for anything that comes your way. And a pair of denim like the Flint and Tinder All-American Washed Jeans in Slim Tapered are about as versatile and stylish as it gets when it comes to a casual pair of jeans for the weekend. Add in essential everyday carry pieces like a tough Nautica watch, well-made leather sneakers and the strong Nisolo Lori Tote and you can get from the barbecue and back in style. Oh, and don’t forget an absolute must-have — that’d be the Billykirk Bottle Opener, folks. Alright, I’ll see you at the grill!

Thanks for reading and stay stylish,

-Beau

Sutro Shoes Inc.

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Criquet Slim-Fit Player’s Shirt

What’s better to wear on a breezy spring day than a slim, stylish polo? Truly, there’s not much. And that’s even moreso the case with the Criquet Slim-Fit Player’s Shirt, a piece that could quickly become your new favorite spring and summer polo.  It’s this week’s Style Pick of the Week for great reason — plenty of #menswear-centric design details set it apart from your average polo, and that means it’s to be applauded, praised …. and purchased. In fact, you might recognize the Criquet Slim-Fit Player’s Shirt from a recent #OOTD entry, and it’s back today thanks to its versatility and sharp style.  It’s available in a wide plethora of colors, including the crisp Heavy Metal colorway seen in these photos.  Other options include the Midnight Cowboy Slim-Fit Player’s Shirt and the Mr. White Slim-Fit Player’s Shirt, so you certainly can’t go wrong in that regard.

It’s a newer take on the brand’s classic Player’s Shirt, and it’s a welcome addition to the brand’s line. Now, just why is it so tough to misstep when picking up a slim polo (or other stylish gear) from Criquet Shirts? Let me tell you, my good man.  Criquet Shirts started with the simple idea that today’s polo shirts featured sloppy collars and poor construction — using the idea of their favorite prep-school shirts as well as classic polos worn by the guys in their family, Criquet Shirts set out to upgrade the polo. And after checking out the Criquet Slim-Fit Player’s Shirt (in multiple colorways) these past few weeks, I can definitely concur that it’s a style upgrade worth picking up for your closet this season. It’s comfortable enough to wear on a spring road trip, it’s stylish enough to layer under a lightweight navy blazer, and it’s well-made enough to work as hard as you do all day long — trust me.

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A classic polo paired with crisp chinos and white sneakers — definitely the way to go. Renshaw Sneakers by Brooks Heritage. Standard Issue Utility Chinos by Brooks Heritage. Mod Watch by Timex x Todd Snyder. Notebook by Field Notes Brand. 810 Wallet by Brothers Leather Supply.

It features the sort of welcome design touches that other polo shirts lack — for starters, the sturdy collar sits nicely throughout the day, and doesn’t curl over (collar stays similar to your favorite dress shirt help out with that). And the 100 percent organic cotton jersey fabric is soft, comfortable and breathable — you’ll be comfortable in the heat with any color option of the  Criquet Slim-Fit Player’s Shirt. I’ve found mine to be handy and versatile enough to wear with everything from slim Apolis chinos and classic SeaVees sneakers to stylish light wash denim and a classic bomber jacket. And although some are firmly in the anti-logo camp, the small Criquet logo stitched on the left chest pocket is understated enough that the Criquet Slim-Fit Player’s Shirt works well on its own sans jacket. That’s great news if you’re in need of a polo — or several — to wear to work and then out to happy hour (without any of the bad connotations that bright polo shirts seem to conjure up). Feel free to wear it with tailored swim shorts and slip-on sneakers to the beach or boardwalk, too. And another thing — if you’ve found yourself wearing fewer and fewer polos over the years, it’s definitely time to start again. Make no mistake — the comfortable fabric, refined colors and tailored fit of the Criquet Slim-Fit Player’s Shirt are all features that could be enough to make you a believer in the power of the polo once again.

So, are you back on-board with a polo for spring and summer? What about the Criquet Slim-Fit Player’s Shirt?

Let me know in the comments — and we’ll see you out there!

-Beau

by Beau H.

Style Q+A: Designing Your Space with Oxford Pennant

It’s an oft-repeated adage here at The Style Guide — small style upgrades really can make a big difference.  Whether that means stepping up your grooming game or upgrading your casual shirt, there are lots of little areas where the end results are self-evident if you focus on the little steps along the way. Be it looking for a better-fitting shirt or refined suede Chelsea boots, it’s all in the details. That’s particularly true when it comes to areas outside the realm of #menswear — namely, upgrading your home goods or upgrading your office. It really is underrated. Working and living in a pleasing environment surrounded by things you enjoy is one of the small pleasures of life — look at the home of ex-J. Crew menswear head Frank Muytjens. And so, it makes sense that we’re talking upgraded home goods (and an upgraded life!) with the subjects of today’s Style Q+A, the fine folks at Oxford Pennant.

It was after a fine, stylish Sunday brunch (and requisite menswear blogging) that I strolled into one of my favorite Brooklyn menswear shops, the crisply designed and handsomely outfitted Modern Anthology. And what did I happen upon but a cabinet and wall adorned with unique pennants? Hard-to-place, at once masculine and modern, yet vintage. Those pennants, folks, were from Oxford Pennant. That leads us nicely into our latest Q+A, as it were. I’ve been mighty pleased with the pennant I picked up that day, which you might recognize from my Instagram. Hanging on my wall, it serves as a daily reminder to work harder, think forward and push myself — and it looks cool, too. Know that in addition to vintage-inspired pennants, the brand also makes handsome championship banners that add color and instant style to any blank wall. It’s certainly very likely that you’ll want more than one piece from the assortment — and that’s a great thing. With the spirit of home upgrades in mind, I caught up with  Oxford Pennant co-founder Dave Horesh to talk why you need a pennant (or championship flag) in your home or office, why it looks great, and what you can do to instantly upgrade your space. Again, folks — the small style upgrades matter, and Oxford Pennant can help you make more than a few.

The Style Guide: What spurred your moment of inspiration to start the brand?
Oxford Pennant: We never set out to start a brand. We’re from Buffalo, which is a city that looks back in time as much as it looks forward. There’s a fixation on the past that’s inescapable here. Brett (my business partner) and I would go to estate sales and pick through huge collections of old pennants from the early 20th century. To us, it always seemed like a piece of Americana that had lost its popularity. One day, we decided to make a batch of “Let’s Go Buffalo” pennants for friends and family. We posted them on Instagram, the photo caught on and people began reaching out to us to have their own pennants made. We filled those orders and folks began posting photos of their custom pennants on Instagram. Then their friends started asking where they could have pennants made, and a company was born.

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A close-up of one of the brand’s championship banners.

TSG: A pennant or a flag might not be the first thing a guy thinks of when decorating — what do you think those pieces can add to a space in terms of design?

OP: You know, a flag is something that’s always used as a symbol of pride and identity. Pennants are essentially a small, house-sized flag. I think they’re a pretty clear opportunity for self-expression. We started using the tagline “Celebrate Everything” when it became clear to us that we were making pennants to commemorate the things that bring people joy in their lives. Their hometown, a wedding, a concert or even a feeling. I think pennants are the ultimate souvenir to chronicle and commemorate one’s life.
Oxford Pennant

A daily reminder from Oxford Pennant to “hustle” — get it?

TSG: For the guy who’s just starting out decorating his space — be it a desk or a dorm room or an apartment — what are some tips you’d share?

    • Start with the classics. Estate sales are a great place to find quality items.
    • A space is always a work in progress. You’ll never be done.
    • Get as many plants as you can. Learn how to take care of them.
    • If you care about something, frame it.
    • Put back the Christmas lights, bro.

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TSG: You’ve got some great-looking pieces in your assortment — what’s your favorite product from the line?

OP: I’ll always love our “Let’s Go Buffalo” pennant. I’m proud of my city and that item will always be the first chapter of our story. As we reach company milestones (like attending our first trade show or buying our first piece of equipment), I snap a photo with my “Let’s Go Buffalo” pennant. 
TSG: Just for fun (aside from an Oxford Pennant piece), what’s one style essential every guy should own?
OP: A Vespa.
And, well … there you have it, folks. Oxford Pennant does work that’s consistently great, consistently stylish and definitely worth it in terms of your time and dollars. I’d urge you to shop the brand’s line and follow Oxford Pennant on Instagram for plenty of style and décor inspiration.
In the meantime … stay stylish.
-Beau


by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Bespoke Post Vibes Box

Editor’s note: Thank you to Bespoke Post for partnering with me on this post and providing the Bespoke Post Vibes Box for the purposes of this review. Enjoy, and thanks for supporting the brands that support The Style Guide! 

The LSTN Sound Co. Fillmore Headphones — seen here — are but one reason to pick up the Bespoke Post Vibes Box. Hayward Sneakers by CLAE. Leatherback Writer by This Is Ground. Matches by Modern Anthology.

There are small lifestyle upgrades that, once you make them, mean you’ll never turn back. Dramatics aside, that’s certainly the case with the Bespoke Post Vibes Box – it’s a unique upgrade in more ways than one, and if you’re a fan of great audio quality, stellar looks and cool vibes, it’s just the ticket. I had the chance to partner with the brand on a review of the Vibes Box (thanks for sending, guys!), and it’s absolutely a winner. It’s one of several stellar “Boxes” sold by the fine folks at  Bespoke Post  – those Boxes are packages that constitute everything from everyday carry accessories to menswear to culinary goodies. And for the audiophile in your life (or yourself), the  Bespoke Post  Vibes Box simply can’t be beat. I had the chance to check out the Vibes Box recently, and although it contains only two products, both are extremely solid, well-made and stylish lifestyle additions. Namely, the LSTN Sound Co. Fillmore Headphones, featuring handsome, richly grained zebra wood casing and a uniquely rugged-yet-refined aesthetic, are a fine upgrade from typical white earbuds. What’s more, the Tinker, Dinker & Doc Eucalyptus Mint Candle is a pleasing addition to your home office. Whether you’re looking for a way to plug in during a day at the office or an afternoon working from home – or a chill evening unwinding — reach for the Vibes Box. As something of a music nut and a fan of live shows featuring everyone from Local Natives to Young the Giant to Lucius, I’d say I can absolutely appreciate great sound quality — and  Bespoke Post simply kills it. Whether I’m kicking back with the LSTN Sound Co.  Fillmore Headphones via the Vibes Box, or relaxing with my JBL E55BT Headphones, there’s something that helps me recharge after a long day than sitting back with my favorite tunes.  If that’s thpice case for you as well, you’ll love the  Bespoke Post Vibes Box – and I’m not just saying that.

But why go all in on the Bespoke Post Vibes Box if you already own multiple pairs of white earbuds? That’s just the very reason.  It’s worth it to make upgrades to your favorite everyday pieces, be that reaching for a better pair of suede Chelsea boots, grabbing high-quality light wash denim or upgrading your casual shirt. And when you pair those #menswear upgrades with a neat pair of headphones for your daily commute or your day at the office, you’re really putting together the whole package. Of course, that same approach extends to things like upgrading your grooming game and decorating your home in style – and it’s all the better that the Vibes Box looks as nice as it performs. It’s all about taking pleasure in the little things, and a quality listening experience is certainly one of those things. Thanks again to Bespoke Post  for partnering with me on this feature – I know I’ll continue to get great mileage out of both the LSTN Sound Co. Fillmore Headphones and the pleasing aromatherapy candle, day after day. Plug in, listen and enjoy!

Thanks, as always, for reading,

-Beau

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: Abercrombie & Fitch x Tretorn, Oars + Alps and LCD Soundsystem

Is it tough to believe we’re kicking off another edition of The Friday Read here at The Style Guide? If your answer is “Yes,” then we’re in the same boat. We’ve had a lot going on here in Brooklyn, from exploring the borough in style to getting you prepped to dress for your next Sunday brunch (we really do love our brunch here, tell ya what), plus busy times at my day job in fashion PR. It’s all fun and games though, and the fun is set to continue this weekend — I’ll be dressed in spring road trip style to head to Indiana to visit my best friend from college, Mr. Stephen Brook. Check out his work covering Notre Dame football and area sports, if you’re a fan of the Fighting Irish. And if you want to keep up with all the action, follow yours truly on Instagram or check in with The Style Guide on Facebook. Know that in other #menswear matters, I just finished a rather extensive — and I mean, extensive — feature for GearMoose covering the best men’s backpacks; keep your eyes peeled for that one.  For now though, let’s start the weekend nice and early with a few choice men’s style (and music!) reads. Enjoy!

  • Upgrade your grooming game in a big way with Oars + Alps and the brand’s handy, easy-to-use and nearly essential Athlete’s Grooming Kit. I’ve had the chance to test it out over these past few weeks, and I’ve been quite pleased with the results — check out my recent feature on the Oars + Alps Athlete’s Grooming Kit for yourself!
  • We love talking all about spring style essentials here at The Style Guide — and when it comes to your new favorite sneakers for spring and summer, Abercrombie and Fitch x Tretorn might just take the cake. It was excellent to learn about the new collaboration’s updated take on the classic Tretorn Nylite Sneakers for The Manual, and I’d urge you to pick up a pair while they’re around.
  • If you haven’t gotten around to listening to two (two!) new LCD Soundsystem songs, please take this chance to do so. The eclectic NYC indie rockers helped define a new era in the resurgent NYC rock scene thoughout the 2000s, and they’ve returned to the fold with festival appearances in recent years, plus an April residency at new venue Brooklyn Steel to boot! So, it’s nice that new music is here — with more to come, if our luck holds up!

One last thing before you go:

  • In need of a new favorite everyday carry piece? Namely, an essential and slim wallet? The TGT Army All Over Deluxe Wallet could be just the wallet to buy for you — and it’s with that durability and versatility in mind that I wrote about it for GearMoose. Enjoy, and let me know in the comments if you end up picking it up!

We’re all finished up for this week, folks. Time for the weekend! Stay tuned for tomorrow’s Style Pick of the Week, and check back on Monday for more #menswear.

by Beau H.

Reader Giveaway Opportunity: Johnston and Murphy Allister Lace-ups

Editor’s note: Congrats to Jeff, our giveaway winner! Thanks to everyone for reading and participating!

Alright, loyal Style Guide readers — how are we doing today? I’ll tell you this — your day (and week) could be on the verge of getting a lot better? Why’s that? Today’s reader giveaway opportunity is all about the best spring sneakers you need now — one pair, to be more specific. And if you’re a fan of crisp white sneakers for warm weather, consider today your lucky day. As it were, you might recognize the Johnston and Murphy Allister Lace-up from an earlier Style Guide post on how to dress for a spring road trip. They’re a crisp, clean, simple and subtly stylish pair of sneakers from a brand that excels at making all sorts of excellent gear — from rugged leather boots to a waxed field jacket that proved crucial for my upstate New York road trip last fall.  And if you’ve been in need of a spring footwear upgrade, consider that problem solved (if you’re fortunate enough to win, that is). Why exactly are these sneakers such a crucial pair to have in your rotation this season? From the slim profile to the textured upper and clean silhouette, it’s tough to top these guys — I’ve found them to be similarly versatile with other spring gear (including the neat Ministry of Supply Daystarter Band-Collar Shirt and the Going Places Short), and I think you’ll be just as pleased.

Sutro Footwear

Crucially, I’d suggest you style these with a slim polo and classic tan chinos every chance you get — and know that they’ll work with slim chino shorts and a patterned short-sleeve shirt on weekends just as well as the weekday. And if you feel like keeping it simple — say, a slim heather grey pocket tee and olive chinos — the Johnston and Murphy Allister Lace-up works for that situation, too. So, those tips are all well and good — but how to win, ehh? To win these sneakers, leave a comment below telling me how you’d style them — that’s it! One winner will be chosen at random on midnight on May 13th. Yes indeed, that’s longer than our normal Style Guide giveaways — I’m excited about it, and I hope you are, too. Good luck out there, stay stylish and thanks for reading!

by Beau H.

Online Shopping Picks: The Best Gifts to Buy For Mother’s Day This Year

OK, guys — remain calm. If Mother’s Day crept up on you this year — or you just didn’t know what to buy for the occasion, The Style Guide is here to help today. And luckily for all of you shoppers out there, we’ve got not only a little bit of time before Mother’s Day (it’s this weekend!), but also plenty of options in this year’s Mother’s Day gift guide. Read this post, and I guarantee you your gift-giving conundrum will be solved. Just as with buying a Christmas or birthday gift, it pays to dig a little deeper, past the ordinary — simple and beautifully made gifts with character are the way to go, no matter the mom you’re buying for. And we’re making it even easier this year, with categories ranging from fashion to jewelry. So with all of that being said, I won’t waste another minute of your time. Unless, that is, you feel like shopping for yourself and perhaps crossing an item off your spring style wish list … in that case, procrastinate away! In the meantime, good luck finding that perfect Mother’s Day gift — tell me how it goes over on Twitter or via The Style Guide Facebook page.

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Jewelry: Julia Szendrei Horizon Diamond Slice Necklace — $99

Julia Szendrei

A simply stylish, understated addition to Mom’s jewelry collection.

You know what’s the great thing about shopping frequently via Huckberry? You get well-acquainted with the fact that they’ve got a neat, unique and well-curated selection of women’s gifts — including the Julia Szendrei Horizon Diamond Slice Necklace.  It provides just the right amount of visual interest, and certainly looks more unique than other necklaces Mom might have in her jewelry rotation. Simple, understated and classic.

Accessories, Part 1: Sofia Ramsey Silver Coco Bracelets — $16

Made with hand-painted coconut wood and bright metal beads, these would be a unique, thoughtful gift.

Less a statement piece of jewelry and more a thoughtful accessory, these Sofia Ramsey bracelets blend a spring and summer-friendly color with carefully constructed quality and the type of chic looks that the mom — or moms — on your gifting list might appreciate. Perhaps even better than the eclectic style of these bracelets? Supporting two local businesses in the process (one of ’em being my favorite Brooklyn shop, Upstate Stock!). Plus, you can combine this gift with a little more personal touch — thoughtful flowers, a nice candle or a great book. Speaking of books …

The Combination Gift: Elizabeth W. Aromatherapy Candle — $23.98 AND a Great Book [“Days Without End” by Sebastian Barry, $26 on IndieBound.com]

The unbeatable combo of a great book and a nice candle.

What better way to welcome spring and summer than with an intriguing beach read? If you’ve got a book lover on your list, they very well might appreciate “Days Without End,” a richly crafted, fascinating tale of immigration, the old American West and in short, a momentous time in American history. It’s got a lot of buzz behind it, and it’s certainly among the best books for Mother’s Day (I think). It should be a gripping read — and that’s where the relaxing Lavender Aromatherapy Candle comes into play. See, two great gifts and an easy one-two punch.

Clothing: Taylor Stitch Catherine Buttondown — $118

Taylor Stitch Women's Apparel

A simple, well-made buttondown — match with your gift receipient if you wish!

Lest you thought Taylor Stitch only made your favorite clothing, think again. They make a nice selection of finely textured, well-made and understated pieces for the woman who values effortless style. Whoever that might be on your list, a premium shirt like the Taylor Stitch Catherine Buttondown could be a nice complement to something like a day of pampering or her favorite flowers — see, it’s the little things that count. And seeing as Taylor Stitch has thought of all the details possible with its Catherine Shirt, that’s great news as you shop for Mother’s Day.

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Footwear: Nisolo Sofia Slip-on — $188

Nisolo

A clean, well-made slip-on perfect for the mom who loves — I mean, LOVES — shoes.

Just as with Taylor Stitch, Nisolo does far more than make stylish gear for guys (like the Emilio Chukka Boot). Indeed, the Sofia Slip-on is yet another unique, refined and understated pair of footwear to consider buying for the mom who considers herself a fashionista. And regardless of her footwear tastes, a chic pair of leather slip-ons should work reliably well through the warmer months — so while you buy the Nisolo Leon Weekender for yourself, buy the Sofia Slip-on for her, will ya?

Sutro Shoes Inc.

Accessories, Part 2: Bellroy Carry Out Clutch — $168.98

 

Bellroy

For the mom who appreciates refined, essential accessories — here’s the gift to give.

Who doesn’t appreciate a great addition to their everyday carry  — right? While Mom’s daily carry might look a bit different than yours — I’d wager she doesn’t carry around a small pocket knife, for example — there are still additions to be made. And one of those additions should likely be the Bellroy Carry Out Clutch, a subtly stylish clutch that should be easy to slip into a tote bag or carry on its own. Hey, maybe check out some other Bellroy leather goods for yourself? You know, as a reward for your shopping prowess.

And with that … we’ve reached the end of this year’s Mother’s Day gift guide. Was it helpful? Useful? Or was it a complete waste of time and you’re still scrambling to find a gift? In that case … I do apologize. But if you found a simple, timeless and classic gift to give — like the Bellroy Carry Out Clutch or the Sofia Slip-on — that’s what we’re going for! Indeed, it all comes down to playing toward Mom’s tastes and interests; in that case, something more unexpected, yet well-made — like the Taylor Stitch Catherine Buttondown — could be a prime gift to give. Don’t forget small touches, like an engaging book or a nice candle. So, what do you say? Let me know what you’re buying for Mother’s Day this year in the comments below.

Good luck, stay stylish and thank you for reading — as always!

-Beau

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Oars + Alps Athlete’s Grooming Kit

Oars + Alps

Grooming essentials from Oars + Alps paired with weekend essentials — the Owen and Fred Brass Bottle Opener and Graft Lantz 1951 Traveller Bag among them.

We’ve  talked quite often in our Style Pick of the Week series about men’s style essentials you need to have on-hand in your closet — be it a  lightweight nylon jacket or versatile spring sneakers. But what about your … medicine cabinet?  Effective men’s grooming products tend to be an area most of us guys overlook — it can be an overwhelming field to dive into, what with a plethora of options and brands big and small out there. Yes indeed, keeping it simple can sometimes pay off. In that vein, the Oars + Alps Athlete’s Grooming Kit is simplicity defined for the guy who wants to upgrade his grooming game quickly and easily. Available via the brand’s Web site and the fine folks at Huckberry, it’s a quick and easy-to-use set of just three basics that you need now. While we’ve talked about the best men’s grooming products for winter, it’s just as important to keep your skin in shape during the spring and summer. And the Oars + Alps Athlete’s Grooming Kit is certainly made for the guy on the go, whether you fancy yourself an athlete or not. The kit features the crisply scented, effective Active Armor Deodorant, a 2-in-1 face moisturizer and eye cream — use a lighter amount under the eyes, a thicker amount on the face — and the unique Power Cleansing Face Stick. With that versatility in mind, there’s a great chance the Athlete’s Grooming Kit could be the most essential grooming move you make this season. Having had the chance to test out the line recently courtesy of the brand, I can certainly vouch for that — in fact, it might be among the best men’s grooming products for spring and summer.

Beckett Simonon

The full line-up from Oars + Alps — possibly your new favorite set of grooming essentials.

At first glance, the Power Cleansing Face Stick seems a bit different — you rub the stick on your face (avoiding your eyes), and then rub the solution into your skin with wet hands. Sound odd? Maybe a little — but once you realize that the Cleansing Face Stick leaves your skin feeling refreshed and smooth, it’s easy to use. And the combination of face moisturizer and eye cream eliminates an extra step in the grooming process while hydrating your skin. Again, refreshing and smooth skin isn’t something you should let go in the spring and summer. And the Active Armor Deodorant proves that the Athlete’s Grooming Kit really is an excellent all-around grooming routine, what with its effective performance and crisp scent. While you might have the rest of your spring style essentials covered, the Athlete’s Grooming Kit can absolutely take care of your grooming needs all spring and summer long. The fact that the you can pick up the Athlete’s Grooming Kit for a low price is just an added bonus. And it’s a crucial reminder that even if you think you have everything covered, it’s best to go the extra mile with grooming essentials. If you’ve got more questions on the Athlete’s Grooming Kit, just drop me a line via Twitter.

Stay stylish!

-Beau

Greats