Heading north: A weekend in Upstate New York

Editor’s note: To check out more northeast travel style, click here.

friday-feature-2-edited

The right gear for a rugged fall day. Faux Shearling Aviator Jacket by Johnston & Murphy. Wool Shirt by Abercrombie and Fitch. Slim-Fit Tapered Leg X-Series Denim by Dickies. Sutter Boots by CAT Footwear. North Fork Leather Fedora by Goorin Brothers. Glasses by Frameri.

If you’ve been following along with us at The Style Guide in this grand fall #menswear adventure, you know that I love to travel. It seems that theme has come up quite a bit, but there’s something about certain times of year — especially fall — that I associate with great vistas and great travel. Be it heading northeast to Providence to see an all-time favorite band (that would be Local Natives) to stopping through my home state of Michigan last month, this season has been a terrific time to hit the road with my favorite menswear gear in tow.  And in the case of this past weekend, that took me to the lovely upstate town of Hudson — it came highly recommended to me via my good friend & fellow blogger Alex Luckey, and seeing as I’m never one to pass up a chance to get out of the city and relax, I had to do it. How does one travel in style from NYC to a quiet town of about 7,000? I set out to do just that.

friday-feature-4-edited-2

More fall exploration around the rustic outskirts of Hudson. Faux Shearling Aviator Jacket by Johnston & Murphy. Wool Shirt by Abercrombie and Fitch. Slim-Fit Tapered Leg X-Series Denim by Dickies. Sutter Boots by CAT Footwear. Tweed Ripley Cap by Kangol. Glasses by Frameri.

Now, I had traveled upstate on a Memorial Day trip earlier this summer, but Hudson presented its own set of challenges. It was a chilly Friday morning in New York City, and chillier upstate.  I knew my Johnston & Murphy Faux Shearling Aviator would more than stand up to a crisp fall breeze — and it did so while providing great value. The fit is relatively slim, but I had more than enough room to comfortably layer my rugged Abercrombie & Fitch Wool Shirt and a trusty long-sleeve henley underneath. The multi-layered combo was perfect for the lovely autumn weather and the quaint, cultured small town of Hudson. For a denim option fit for both NYC and upstate, I grabbed my Dickies X-Series Slim-Fit Tapered Leg 5-Pocket Pant — it’s a comfortable, well-fitting and affordable pair of ringpsun cotton pants with a hint of stretch. I topped the look off with the seasonally appropriate Kangol Tweed Ripley Cap and a pair of seriously tough CAT Footwear Sutter Boots — talk about mixing function and fashion. Of course, I also couldn’t resist the urge to break out a sharp, vintage-inspired North Fork Leather Fedora from Goorin Brothers — it’s a beautiful hat that I picked it up at the brand’s terrific West Village shop at a neat event hosted with Courvoisier Cognac. Now, a wide-brimmed leather fedora might not be for everyone, but it might very well move into my rotation soon. In short, the combination was perfect for a day exploring Hudson. The next time you find yourself moving quickly from one spot to the other, an easy-to-wear leather jacket, layers to combat the cold and tough leather boots are key.

Now, what exactly is there to do in a small upstate town? Actually, a heck of a lot. Hudson has quickly developed a reputation as a burgeoning enclave for outstanding arts and culture — the small town plays host to well over a dozen art galleries that display a mix of modern, contemporary pieces and local works. On top of that, there’s a vibrant music and film scene, starting with the reclaimed industrial Basilica Hudson complex, as seen above — the space hosts both experimental music performances and weekly film screenings. Plus, there’s a treasure trove of vintage, vintage-inspired and reclaimed clothing — particularly at Artists and Revolutionaries, seen at the top of this post.  And as the city’s cultural scene has grown, a really excellent gourmet food scene has sprung up — that was evident on my first stop of the trip. A quick caffeine jolt was crucial at Rev Coffee, known for its well-curated approach to roasting and pastries. The town’s proximity to the gorgeous Hudson River waterfront is also prime — the scenery and fresh air was much needed coming from the hustle and bustle of New York City.

Make no mistake, once you amble away from the water, there are still plenty of places to explore. Part lodge, part bar, part shop and full of rustic, rugged vibes. W.M. Farmer & Sons was nearly worth the trip in and of itself. This stunning outpost serves up home goods, lifestyle wares and a heck of a meal — along with an accompanying hotel. Even in Brooklyn, there’s really nothing like it — and that’s mighty refreshing. With a coffee bar that’s open daily and a strong selection of craft beer and cocktails — including a tasty bourbon-and-cider concoction known as the Bear Trap — you could certainly kill a few hours hanging out in this beautiful space. Yes, with my aviator jacket, tweed cap and rugged Timex x Red Wing Waterbury Chrono, I felt like I fit right in with the location’s old-time charm. Oh, and I’d highly recommend the the Cast Iron Bar Burger if you’re feeling hungry. A delicious gourmet meal definitely called for a nightcap at the neat, eclectic and pleasingly minimal OR Gallery and Tavern, an Iceland-inspired, converted auto garage that serves as a bar, gallery and accessories shop. Their refreshing selection of craft beer was topped only by the night’s festivities — a neat, intimate performance from Nico Turner of long-running, eclectic rock outfit Cat Power. Again, the ambiance was entirely unique for an upstate trip — and my daytime gear took me right on through to a chilly night in style.

ties-com-scarf-photo-edited

Enjoying a coffee in the crisp fall air outside the OR Gallery and Tavern. Waxed Cotton Field Jacket by Johnston & Murphy. Striker Sweater by Johnnie-O. White Oxford by Todd Snyder. Kinzie Denim by Mugsy Jeans. Plaid scarf by Ties.com Waterbury Chrono by Timex x Red Wing Heritage. Glasses by Frameri. Cognac Suede Wingtips by Thursday Boots.

Even with an active Friday in the books, Saturday called for more exploration yet. Even for a smaller town, Hudson is filled with neat sights around every corner — and when you start the day off with a stop at MOTO Coffee/Machine, you’re sure to fuel up the right way (trust me …. I love my coffee).  And luckily, my gear was more than up to the fall weather. I took on a chilly morning with my Johnston & Murphy Waxed Cotton Field Jacket, a heritage-inspired piece with plenty of durability. It layered easily over a slim, soft and comfortable Striker Sweater from the fine prep clothiers at Johnnie-O — don’t sleep on the quality of the brand’s knitwear, as it’s undoubtedly worth the investment. My Ties.com Syracuse Fringed Scarf helped me fight the afternoon breeze, too. And the mix of sporty and heritage gear was offset nicely by a versatile Todd Shelton White Oxford. I finished off the look with a pair of Kinzie Jeans from Mugsy Jeans — they’re cut with room to move,  perfect for exploring a hip town in style. They offered a casual contrast alongside my tough, durable Cognac Suede Wingtips from the fine folks at Thursday Boots — they’re a brand-new offering for the company, and they’re worth the purchase. The combination was nicely offset again by my reliable, handsome Timex x Red Wing Waterbury Chrono.

Beckett Simonon

As the day presented with it plenty of exploration, I was more than happy to have trusty gear with me for the ride. From a rich coffee to gallery strolling and menswear shopping at the immensely well-curated Mutiny NY, I was more than happy to have the chance to visit such a neat, diverse and thoughtful town on a beautiful fall Saturday. Mutiny NY in particular represented some of the best menswear shopping on the Hudson — we’re talking brands from The Hill-Side to Universal Works. Topping the day off with an excellent mackerel dish at the rustic-yet-refined Fish & Game proved a neat capper to an overnight trip that felt longer, yet moved too quick — isn’t that always the way it goes?

Of course, there’s also nothing quite like heading right back into the city and zipping downtown to a buzzed-about concert, right? Mysterious, ethereal Brooklyn-based trio Wet  — past openers for personal favorite CHVRCHES — put on what one can only describe as a vibey, groovy show to rival Beach House. That they filled up the sometimes-cavernous Grand Ballroom at Webster Hall is to be applauded — and it was certainly worth the quick turnaround from train station to concert! Crucially, my tough waxed field jacket and durable suede wingtip boots more than fit in with the eclectic style found at a rock conert. Talk about a heck of an end to a great day, and a great trip!

sunday-grid-1a-edited

A casual-yet-premium Johnnie-O wool overshirt, sport-inspired CLAE x JackThreads sneakers and tapered FOURLAPS sweatpants — the perfect set of Sunday pieces, finished off with a Club Monaco cashmere hat and the Timex x Red Wing Waterbury Chrono.

As with any whirlwind trip, Sunday brought with it the need for some much-needed relaxation time. Luckily, I found my Sunday gear to be on-point all the way through. The team at FOURLAPS makes athletic basics that merge comfort with simple style, and its Rush Joggers are a prime example — perfect for a casual day around Brooklyn, in fact. I paired those up with more easygoing style, starting with the Johnnie-O Pines Shacket, a well-made, soft wool shirt-jacket made from an incredibly soft fabric blend. It matched easily with my Flint and Tinder Marled Long-Sleeve Henley, the perfect seasonal layering piece. To complement a look that was equal parts sporty and stylish, I stuck with my CLAE x JackThreads Strayhorn Mid Sneakers — the grey wool provided a touch of fall-ready textured, and the neat chukka silhouette offered some nice contrast to my tapered sweats. Now, am I saying you should step out for Sunday brunch in sweatpants? Not necessarily. But when the occasion calls for some relaxation and delicious coffee at the likes of Willamsburg shop Homecoming, it’s probably OK.

As with plenty of recent weekend travels, this past weekend brought with it some of my favorite things — a bit of fall travel to an amazing upstate town, a ton of stylish menswear, some delicious gourmet food and a requisite helping of live music. To top it all off with a relaxing Sunday and some Williamsburg exploration was really great — with so many opportunities nearby and just down the road, I’m very thankful to live in New York City. Let’s not forget everyone who reads this blog — thank you! I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I enjoy writing it. I think that’s as fitting a way as possible heading into Thanksgiving. Curious as to what you should wear? Stick around later this week for a Thanksgiving style suggestion.

Oh, and in the meantime? Stay stylish!

-Beau

Huckberry

Bring on October: An early fall weekend in New York

Editor’s note: Click here for another seasonal men’s style post. Thanks to Forever21 Men for providing specific products featured in this post. Thanks for supporting the brands that support The Style Guide!

Getting around town in style with the Karnes Alpine Hiker thanks to Johnston & Murphy. Head to the brand's new NYC menswear store at 200 5th Avenue if you get the chance! Ivy Blazer by Grayers. Blue Oxford by JackThreads. Silver knit tie by Banana Republic. Trusty 508 Jeans by Levi's. Glasses by Frameri.

Getting around town in style for a family weekend with the Karnes Alpine Hiker thanks to Johnston & Murphy. Head to the brand’s new NYC menswear store at 200 5th Avenue if you get the chance! Ivy Blazer by Grayers. Blue Oxford by JackThreads. Silver knit tie by Banana Republic. Trusty 508 Jeans by Levi’s. Glasses by Frameri.

There are several things I’ve been eagerly awaiting these past few weeks, from an amazing Lucius concert in New York City to a proper transition to fall style and notably, my family’s visit to the Big Apple this past weekend. My mom and sister joined me in exploring in NYC this past May (dressed in style, of course), and although I saw my family in Florida at the end of August, it was a much-needed and ultra-fun weekend in my adopted home this time around. And the highlights were certainly aplenty for a relatively quick four-day trip — starting with the neat event pictured at the top of the page (more in a minute). My parents and sister joined me in Brooklyn at my humble abode (the backdrop to my Instagram photos, as it were), and we really did pack a lot into their trip — we’re talking everything from Broadway shows to NYC exploration and of course, a crucial Sunday brunch. It was a lot to take in, so I brought my A-plus #menswear game — and then some.

My family arrived into town on Thursday, right as I was taking part in a very cool event — perhaps the neatest thing I’ve had the chance to do in my part-time gig as a style writer (oh, and pictured at the top of the page). Heritage menswear brand Johnston & Murphy just opened up a dedicated men’s shop in the Big Apple, offering up the brand’s excellent and affordable footwear, accessories and apparel in a refined, unique environment — it’s at 200 5th Avenue in NYC, when you happen to make it out here (if you’re already out East, get there — STAT!). With that in mind, they brought together a group of men’s style bloggers & writers — like yours truly — to participate in a neat menswear stunt — we’re talking jaunting around town accompanied by a bike-riding shoe-shiner, all the while decked out in stellar J&M boots. I tested out the Karnes Alpine Boot for the occasion — the beautiful quality and construction sets these apart, and they’re a steal for under $200. They’re super comfortable, to boot (pun intended!). With the event came the chance to pair up some favorite style essentials for moving to and from the office — including the lightweight, breathable Grayers Ivy Blazer, a well-worn and appropriately classic pair of Levi’s 508 Jeans and the simple, equally classic JackThreads Oxford Shirt, plus a Banana Republic knit tie (an oldie, but a goodie).  It was a great afternoon, and a very fun event in which to participate! Definitely stay tuned for more Johnston & Murphy-related content throughout the rest of the fall — the brand’s gear is just that well-made!

Of course, stopping at Johnston & Murphy and then heading back to the office made for a busy afternoon, as I caught up with my family to recap the day at Fraunces’ Tavern, a revered American tavern in operation since 1762 — yes, 1762! It’s a living, breathing part of American history — and it’s immortalized in the smash hit musical “Hamilton,” to boot.  A pro tip — they also feature the American outpost of the standout Porterhouse Brewing Company, and the restaurant’s New York strip is incredible. The historic ambience is incredible in and of itself, and the location will certainly make you feel patriotic!

The latest Style Pick? A pair of stunning American-made sneakers: The Danner x New Balance miUSA 585. Button Denim Jacket by Forever21. Heather Grey Henley and Bowie Fit Stretch Cotton Chinos by JACHS NY. Waterbury Chrono from the Timex x Red Wing Heritage collab. Glasses by Frameri.

The latest Style Pick? A pair of stunning American-made sneakers: The Danner x New Balance miUSA 585. Button Denim Jacket by Forever21. Heather Grey Henley and Bowie Fit Stretch Cotton Chinos by JACHS NY. Waterbury Chrono from the Timex x Red Wing Heritage collab. Glasses by Frameri.

Although it was a busy — and rather exhausting — Thursday, the weekend was in sight on Friday, which called for a mix of sporty and classic style to take on a day at the office and a night out in NYC. Knitwear from JACHS NY is a great bet for the changing seasons — the brand uses a nice blend of premium fabrics and neat, heritage-inspired touches. The slanted chest pocket on the Heather Grey Long-Sleeve Henley is but one example, and the fabric quality in that particular piece is definitely on-point. It was a comfortable mid-layer beneath my brand-new Forever21 Button Denim Jacket (thanks to the brand for supplying!). When teamed with my JACHS NY Forest Green Bowie Fit Stretch Cotton Chinos, the ensemble worked well for what the day had in store. In fact, I’d recommend you reach for similar transitional, long-lasting pieces for casual Friday, and in that regard, my sneaker choice more than fit the bill.
Buck Mason - Timeless Design. Made in America.
In fact, they’re a pair I’d say you should look into — the Danner x New Balance miUSA 585 is a hot-off-the-press collaboration effort between two brands that share a love of American craftsmanship, heritage and style. The sneakers are nothing short of a brilliant master class in long-lasting construction, durability and of course, stellar looks. New Balance’s ROLLBAR technology offers cushioning and support, while the Horween leather and ballistic nylon on the upper are seriously tough. Plus, it’s a really versatile sneaker, with the comfort of a Danner hiking boot and the style of a set of New Balance kicks. I could go on, but know that they more than lived up to the task of getting to and from the office and around NYC in the evening after.

saturday-grid-photo

The ideal outfit for getting around NYC and checking out two Broadway shows. Slim-Fit Striped Burgundy Shirt c/o Forever21 Men. Garment-dyed chinos by Dockers. Brown leather watch by MVMT Watches. Brown leather Chelsea boots by JackThreads. Pen by Owen & Fred.

A busy Friday night led quickly into a great Saturday around New York City — just as with my family’s May trip, we took full advantage of the opportunity to take in not one, but TWO fantastic Broadway shows through the weekend. First up on the agenda — a once-in-a-lifetime trip to see the revered much-loved and all-around legendary “Hamilton” at the Richard Rodgers Theatre again; just as seeing it in May was an entirely unexpected and incredible treat (thank you, Dad!), getting the chance to see it once more was just as unexpected, just as breathtaking and just as incredible. It’s intense, it’s powerful, it’s dramatic and it makes you want to learn more about the history of our country! How cool. It’s truly a gem — every bit as good as advertised. And our second Broadway show was nearly just as momentous — the extraordinary “Cats,” a revered musical making its return to the stage in NYC after about 15 years away. Fun fact: In my first family trip to New York City back in 2000, my family and I also saw “Cats” — things really do come full circle! All that Broadway show-hopping — and a stop for a delicious dinner at the Glass House Tavern — called for sharp, easygoing style. The Slim-Fit Striped Cotton Shirt (courtesy of Forever21), helped me meet the occasion in style on my top half — particularly when matched up once again with my trusty Grayers Ivy Blazer. Slim Dockers garment-dyed chinos also teamed up nicely with the versatile, refined JackThreads Kimbo Chelsea Boot, which features quality leather, a sturdy rubber sole and the kind of styling potential you can’t get with just any pair of $110 boots.

sunday-brunch-update

An outfit ready to take on Sunday brunch. Button Denim Jacket by Forever21 Men. Cable Sweater by Dockers. White Oxford by Todd Shelton. Grey chinos by JACHS NY. Grounder High-Tops by Todd Snyder x P.F. Flyers. Mod Watch by Timex x Todd Snyder. Glasses by Frameri.

Both shows were an absolute joy to watch — I consider myself first and foremost a big-time menswear fan, but to be around a packed theater of fans who appreciate Broadway was pretty cool (to say the least). And again, seeing “Hamilton” for a second time — just extraordinary. The fantastic trip — and a delicious brunch to cap it off — came to an end all too quickly, but for my family’s last half-day in the city, I still did the best I could in all things #menswear. That meant grabbing a clean-cut essential, the Todd Shelton Classic White Oxford, and pairing it up with a premium Dockers sweater (the one pictured is sold-out, but the rest of the brand’s offeirngs are on-point). It was unfortuately rainy and chilly, so that weather made it ideal to break out yet another neat layering piece courtesy of Forever21, the Forever21 Buttoned Denim Jacket. I threw on a sharp-as-heck timepiece (that would be the Timex x Todd Snyder Mod Watch), and along with my  Grey Bowie Fit Stretch Cotton Chinos from JACHS NY, I was well and truly set for exploring Brooklyn. That meant, among other blogging pursuits, grabbing a critical brunch Bloody Mary at Building on Bond and generally enjoying the comfort and style of my Todd Snyder + P.F. Flyers Grounder Hi-Top sneakers. Seriously, grab a pair of those sneakers and resist the urge to pair them with just about everything you own.

The weekend definitely came to an end too quickly, but with the chance to catch up with my family, take in two amazing, thrilling Broadway shows and explore some NYC landmarks both new and old, it was one of the highlights of this year. There are always new adventures to have in the city, and to be able to experience those with my family — and with some great gear — is very cool. For more personal style tips, head to Instagram, and follow along with #menswear on the daily via Twitter.

Until the next weekend of adventures — stay stylish,

-Beau

P.S. Check back here tomorrow for a weekend-centric #OOTD, and a terrific men’s style shopping suggestion on Wednesday.

#OOTD: How to Dress for a Summer Music Festival

Editor’s note: You’ve surely seen this hashtag lots of different places, including on Instagram. But how does that carry over to real life? The #OOTD series will take one great item and put together a versatile, stylish outfit around it. Look for past features here.

If you think you’re covered when it comes to the basics of #menswear, there’s a good chance that there are always scenarios out there that test your knowledge. We’re talking dressing for certain occasions, be it a summer wedding,  a rainy weekend day or a very casual bar crawl. You can add to that the list the ever-tricky summer music festival. It’s a topic that’s been on my mind a lot lately, as I’m heading to the 2016 Governor’s Ball music festival this weekend in NYC. If you find yourself traveling to one of a multitude of festivals, be it Panorama or Lollapalooza or Outside Lands (as I did about two years ago), there’s a very good chance you’re still going to want to dress well — or at least, you should. Today’s #OOTD focuses on bringing all the right pieces together so you look casual, stylish and still ready to rock out (or at least, dreamily nod your head to the soulful sounds of Lana Del Rey). At any rate, take a look at the below ensemble and follow along via my Instagram and Twitter for personal style coverage of this weekend’s Governor’s Ball. And let me know your own festival style preferences via Facebook! Cheers.

Not a tank top or fluorescent sunglasses in site. Add in crisp white sneakers and a great leather watch to upgrade the whole thing.

Not a tank top or fluorescent sunglasses in site. Add in crisp white sneakers and a great leather watch to upgrade the whole thing.

The Shirt: Old Navy Slim-Fit Patterned Shirt, $18— Printed shirts like this one aren’t for everyone, but the collared shirt and fun pattern elevate your game from, say, a tie-dye tank top (of which you might see a few). The short sleeves keep you cool, too. If that’s not your look, grab a slim polo instead. If it gets chilly, bring along a stylish spring jacket.

The Shorts: Bridge & Burn Stringer Dune Shorts, $88 — When looking good and keeping comfortable go hand-in-hand, reach for cotton-linen shorts that fit slimmer than a standard pair while ditching the belt & looking sharp.

The Sneakers: SeaVees Legend Sneakers, $78 — Sneakers are definitely the right play here, especially classic white sneakers that can get a bit beat up without costing a fortune (the GREATS Wilson could also be an option here).

The Socks: Pair of Thieves No-Show Catch-22 Socks, $10 — This brand is quickly becoming a Style Guide favorite for their mix of affordability, comfort and style — these socks are made in part with breathable mesh, keeping your feet cool and dry when it gets hot.

The Sunglasses: Sunday Somewhere Maximus Sunglasses, $270 — This pair is certainly an investment, but they look a heck of a lot better than the fluorescent shades lots of other folks might be rocking, and you’ll be able to take the case with you (more on that below).

The Watch: Timex x Red Wing Waterbury Chrono, $158 — Sticking in the vein of rugged style upgrades, this smart chronograph watch is tough, durable and ready for anything. The Red Wing leather strap is sturdy, and the thick case diameter stands up perfectly to this casual outfit. If rain threatens, simply grab a casual rubber or NATO strap watch instead.

The Money Clip: Owen & Fred Brass Money Clip, $19 — Because you want to travel relatively light, grab this slim, durable money clip — you can slip some cash and a few credit cards in there, too, and slip it right in your pocket.

The Tote Bag: JackThreads The Daily Tote, $19 — At festivals, we tend to accumulate a lot of stuff — maybe it’s a tee from your favorite band, a souvenir mug, that brass money clip, you name it. This tote is a stylish, understated way to lug everything around, and you can always stash it in a locker if needed. Ya dig?

Now with all of that gear on and in tow, it’s time to plug in and rock out. Stay safe, remember your sunscreen and double-check that festival schedule, ehh? The biggest key here is, as always, looking for small ways to upgrade your style game — it can even be fun to rock something a bit more eye-catching than your everyday look (like that printed shirt above). And casual, cool style staples — like khaki shorts and white sneakers — always get the job done. Sing along to a few of your favorites for me, will ya? See you in the front row.

-Beau

Join Frank & Oak Elevate - Enjoy FREE Shipping, Cashback + more at Frank + Oak! Try it now for 90 days, risk free!

Florsheim

City lights: A weekend in the Big Apple

Editor’s note: For more posts covering style adventures big and small, click here.

Ready for some Sunday brunch and brownstone envy. Denim jacket by American Apparel. Printed graphic tee and Flat Wool Cap by Bridge and Burn. Slim Light Mercer Denim by Mott & Bow. Cooper Boat Shoes in Caramel Nubuck by Jack Erwin. Waterbury Chrono by Timex x Red Wing. Sunglasses by Spine Optics. Striped webbed belt by J. Crew.

Ready for some Sunday brunch and brownstone envy. Denim jacket by American Apparel. Printed graphic tee and Flat Wool Cap by Bridge and Burn. Slim Light Mercer Denim by Mott & Bow. Cooper Boat Shoes in Caramel Nubuck by Jack Erwin. Waterbury Chrono by Timex x Red Wing. Sunglasses by Spine Optics. Striped webbed belt by J. Crew.

Just in the past few weeks alone, it’s really hit me that I’ve been fortunate enough to live in NYC for two years (well, two years and one weekend officially). It’s been an ongoing, ever-expanding adventure, from some classic NYC real estate struggles (email me for more on that) to some exciting job transitions and the opportunity to write, blog and work with some fantastic brands and fantastic people. In the midst of all this activity, I always relish the chance to see (and occasionally host) my family and friends when they visit — it’s turned out to be quite the destination! And while it’s not the same as traveling for work or play, that still means I plan ahead and try to dress well to meet the demands of the weekend. These past few days were another such chance, as I hosted my mom and sister in my Brooklyn apartment (my wood floor is the backdrop of my Instagram photos, wink, wink). We had an action-packed weekend, and although I do call this place my home now, I’m always excited to see new places in the city, and try new things — one can’t possibly do it all even living here!

An outfit fit for the cubicle and a Broadway viewing. Slim-Fit Travel Jacket by Combatant Gentleman. Slim grey chinos by Bonobos. Slim chambray shirt by Old Navy. Archie Penny Loafers by Jack Erwin. Maximus Sunglasses by Sunday Somewhere. Customized Weekender Fairfield by Timex.

An outfit fit for the cubicle and a Broadway viewing. Slim-Fit Travel Jacket by Combatant Gentleman. Pin dot pocket square by The Grunion Run via SprezzaBox. Slim grey chinos by Bonobos. Slim chambray shirt by Old Navy. Archie Penny Loafers by Jack Erwin. Maximus Sunglasses by Sunday Somewhere. Customized Weekender Fairfield by Timex.

After their Thursday arrival, we had time for a lovely lunch in Bryant Park on one of the best spring days we’ve had yet. As it was a work day for me at Coyne PR (followed by a Broadway viewing of the musical “She Loves Me,”) I stuck with versatile, classic style fit for the office and a more refined night — that is, an Old Navy dark chambray shirt paired with slim grey Bonobos chinos and one of my favorite jackets, the crisp Slim-Fit Travel Jacket from Combatant Gentleman. I finished off that pairing with some accessories fit for 9-to-5 and beyond — that would be a pin dot pocket square from the folks at Grunion Run via SprezzaBox and sharp Jack Erwin leather loafers (the Archie, to be specific). Both fit right in for my work day, and also looked presentable at a Broadway show — if you’ve got dinner plans after work or something similar, essential tailored accessories like that are very helpful. And a new pair of the Maximus Sunglasses courtesy of the Australian eyewear brand Sunday Somewhere looked stylish and … eye-catching (had to do it).
Join Frank & Oak Elevate - Enjoy FREE Shipping, Cashback + more at Frank + Oak! Try it now for 90 days, risk free!
The show (starring an extremely talented ensemble cast, including Zachary Levi, formerly of NBC’s “Chuck”) was a fun way to cap off a busy work day, even for a non-Broadway buff like myself. Friday meant another casually-dressed work day for yours truly, and a day of exploration around Manhattan for my mom and sister — but Friday  night was a real treat. After a stop at the Brazen Fox for a few brews and a tasty burger (never a bad call), we headed deep into Brooklyn to one of my favorite stops, Threes Brewing. The craft beer hotspot was hosting the release of the acclaimed Day of the Dead Grateful Dead tribute album, curated by Aaron & Bryce Dessner, Brooklyn rock heroes currently of The National. So it was a night featuring tracks from my mom’s favorite band, and an appearance from a few members of one of my favorite bands. Not a bad way to cap off the work week! (Oh, and Scott Devendorf of The National said “we’re working on new stuff for you,” so… make of that what you will).

A crisp, classic outfit for two Broadway shows. Baker Mountain Field Jacket by Timberland. Blue Oxford by JackThreads. Slim Bowie Chinos by JACHS NY. Customized Weekender Fairfield by Timex. Printed socks by Pair of Thieves. Maximus Sunglasses by Sunday Somewhere. Suede Strada Derby Shoes by M.Gemi.

A crisp, classic outfit for two Broadway shows. Baker Mountain Field Jacket by Timberland. Blue Oxford by JackThreads. Slim Bowie Chinos by JACHS NY. Customized Weekender Fairfield by Timex. Printed socks by Pair of Thieves. Maximus Sunglasses by Sunday Somewhere. Suede Strada Derby Shoes by M.Gemi.

That led us right into an exciting start to the day on Saturday, as we stopped by a true Brooklyn classic, the always-excellent Milk & Honey Café. I’d definitely recommend the shop’s new Maple Bacon Cronut — it’s delicious, and it’s a stellar way to start your day, even if it is a little far into Brooklyn. We had to zip into Manhattan to then prep for the first of not one, but two incredible Broadway shows — including the much-acclaimed and much-lauded “Hamilton,” an astonishing work of musical theater, and the most interesting account of the life of Alexander Hamilton that you’ll ever see. It was just … jaw-dropping (thanks, Dad!). We nearly topped that with an evening viewing of “Les Miserables,” another all-time musical classic that’s just as much of a sight to behold — and going off Broadway later this year, to boot. Needless to say, it was an emotional, enthralling and exciting day.

While I was focused on getting to (and making it through) those emotional shows, I still tried to meet the demands of travel across Brooklyn & Manhattan in style. I paired a classic blue JackThreads Oxford with the smart, well-tailored Bowie Chinos from JACHS NY, complemented by the crisp, versatile M.Gemi Strada Derby, plus some navy-and-orange Pair of Thieves printed socks and the always-classic Timex Weekender Fairfield. I topped off my outfit to fight the rain with the Baker Mountain Field Jacket via Timberland (I’d absolutely recommend you grab a stylish spring rain jacket if some breezes or showers are in the mix). And to finish things off, I once again grabbed the Maximus Sunglasses from Sunday Somewhere — part of my latest Spring Style Essentials at GearMoose, as it were.

The "outfit grid" version of the ensemble seen at the top of the page. Printed graphic tee and Flat Wool Cap by Bridge and Burn. Light Ludlow Denim by Mott & Bow. Cooper Boat Shoes in Caramel Nubuck by Jack Erwin. Waterbury Chrono by Timex x Red Wing. Sunglasses by Spine Optics. Striped webbed belt by J. Crew.

The “outfit grid” version of the ensemble seen at the top of the page. Printed graphic tee and Flat Wool Cap by Bridge and Burn. Slim Mercer Light Denim by Mott & Bow. Cooper Boat Shoes in Caramel Nubuck by Jack Erwin. Waterbury Chrono by Timex x Red Wing. Sunglasses by Spine Optics. Striped webbed belt by J. Crew.

After a busy, bustling day in the city, we were pretty exhausted — and that made a hearty Sunday brunch to close out the weekend all the more enjoyable. While our first choice (Rucola in Brooklyn Heights) was filled up with a pretty feisty Brunch Village crowd, we swung back just a few blocks to a new favorite spot (as of yesterday), Building on Bond, a slightly rustic, vintage-feeling spot with a quaint vibe and some tremendous iced coffee and corned beef hash. If ever you get to Brooklyn (it’s just one stop in!), stop through.
Florsheim
For a casual final day of my mom and sister’s trip, I grabbed some comfortable yet still put-together weekend pieces, including two great new items from my friends at Bridge & Burn — the brand’s comfortable, slim-fitting and witty “Win Always” graphic tee, plus a neat Flat Wool Cap (complete with a handy stitched “B” on the front). I accented those pieces with the versatile Slim Mercer Light Denim from Mott & Bow. And they looked just right alongside the exceedingly comfortable Jack Erwin Cooper Boat Shoes, shoes that are crafted for the city rather than the dock thanks to that elongated loafer last (pick up a pair for just $125 — seriously, do it). Two critical accessories complemented my look — the stunning Waterbury Chrono from the Timex x Red Wing collab. plus the durable Spine Optics Aviator Sunglasses. Whether the occasion calls for casual Sunday brunch pieces or finishing touches fit for the workday, I think either would suit you well.

Just as was the case with my weekend in Washington, D.C., the trip definitely went far too quickly, but it was action-packed and tons of fun. I’m certainly hopeful I can get down to Florida to see the rest of my family again soon — but in the meantime, if their visits to NYC include more viewings of “Hamilton,” my family’s welcome all the time! Let me know if you’ve had any stylish weekend adventures over on The Style Guide Facebook page, and look for an #OOTD post coming tomorrow, plus travel style coverage of a trip upstate coming along next Monday.

Until next time — thanks for reading, and stay stylish!

-Beau
Florsheim