September 16, 2015September 12, 2024 by Beau H.

Online Shopping Picks: Best Men’s Henleys For Fall

Editor’s note: For more Online Shopping Picks covering essential categories in the menswear world, head here.

It seems as if it was just yesterday I sat down to write about rugged men’s henleys … for the summer. The summer. And yet here we are looking toward October, and that means weather that might not start too bad, but often ends rather frigid. For all those times, a henley really is one of the best layering bets a guy can place for the fall and winter.

Although some brands are making lighter-weight henleys now, it always seems best to me to wear a long-sleeve number in colder temperatures. And there are options at every price point that can add a dash of rugged appeal to just about any situation — including under a blazer or with other sportswear staples, like a baseball-inspired cardigan. The following picks encapsulate a wide price and quality range, but whether you’re a henley-every-day kinda guy or just on some days of the week (say, Wednesday?), I hope you find what you’re looking for.

#1. Pistol Lake Henley — $40

A style that closely mimics the one seen on Mr. Craig — without the high price tag.

Just as seemed to be the case with the best men’s short-sleeve henleys, so many of the best long-sleeve options are being made by brands who emphasize both sportswear staples and made-in-America manufacturing — like Pistol Lake. This particular henley was seen on this blog back in March, and it’s just as relevant a pick now that it’s nearly the depths of fall. The brand uses a premium 6 oz. jersey cotton for this henley, and it’s got a trim, athletic cut that should flatter many body types. In a crisp white color that still retains a vintage feel, it’s the sort of piece that’ll look great with high-low combos like slim grey trousers and high-top sneakers later on this season.

#2. Todd Snyder Classic Henley in Indigo — $125

An of-the-moment color with unique finishing touches like a chambray placket.

We jump right from a pretty affordable option to a … not-so-affordable option in slot number two with this piece. But it really is the kind of henley where you can expect to get your money’s worth and more. It looks to be cut and made so well that you could even rock it with tailored wear (the types of looks that were seen at Todd Snyder’s SS16 presentation this past summer). The chambray trim and roll cuffs are two neat design touches that should help it wear more like a sweater than a true henley, and if you’re paying that much for it, you should absolutely toss it on over a white Oxford cloth buttondown in lieu of a sweater on casual Fridays.

#3. Target Olde School Long-Sleeve Striped Henley — $20.98 to $25.48

Nothing eye-popping about this henley except the low price — a good thing!

So for those of us who are indeed on the hunt for an affordable option (#menswear bloggers be damned), Target delivers the goods — although I’m not sure who Olde School is. Regardless, there’s nothing too fancy about this henley, which features a three-button placket and is made from 100% cotton. The chest stripes make any guy look better by accentuating the shoulders & chest, adding some bulk to your frame — that’s a wise move when considering the heavier textures of fall blazers and sweaters. And at that price, you could pick up two for the price of one Pistol Lake henley (good if you just throw them on from time to time). Note that you could also pick up a henley from the Merona line for about $10 cheaper.

#4. Old Navy Henley — $19

Another option that keeps things simple. But not stupid.

Our fourth entry in this post keeps things on the affordable and simple front, with the emphasis on both of those categories. Old Navy sticks to reliable basics that don’t break the bank (more on that here) and from personal experience with these heathered henleys, they’re a reliable option, particularly for layering. If you like an exceptionally sturdy collar on your henleys, these don’t quite have that — but the fabric is surprisingly soft on the plus side. You’d also be surprised at how much mileage you’ll get out of a color like a rich burgundy, particularly with neutral trouser options like grey and navy. Of course, you can purchase another Starbucks drink if you spring for the Light Grey Heather option instead.

#5. Life/After/Denim Hachiko Henley — $88

As simple as it gets — even more minimal thanks to the two-button placket.

Life/After/Denim is one of those curious brands that people seem to love if they’ve heard of — and are instantly drawn to if they haven’t. I first came across the brand when researching them for a piece on printed shirts for spring, but they do casual basics well, too. The shorter-two button placket on the Hachiko Henley is a bit more eyecatching than most shirts of this style, so it’s a piece that would probably do better on its own or with a simple cardigan. The tri-blend jersey cotton should be soft yet not as stifling as a thermal henley, and the color should do great with both black jeans and regular old dark denim.

With any list of online shopping picks, there are only so many brands that make the final cut. As always, the excellent and ethically made selection of basics at Apolis continues to impress, and the brand’s Stripe Long Sleeve Henley just missed the cut. The equally impressive basics purveyors at Buck Mason are also onto something with the Navy Henley they’re stocking this fall — better luck next time? Either way, there’s definitely a henley out there for you this fall and winter, even if you’re not built like Daniel Craig *yet.*

Which henley or henleys are you planning on grabbing this fall? How would you layer this staple piece?

September 7, 2015September 7, 2015 by Beau H.

2015 Fall Style Wish List

Yes, it’s almost here. Does it feel like fall yet? Military jacket pictured by Frank & Oak (October ’13 edition).

It’s always surprising to see how early fall styles start to hit shelves (and E-commerce sites) every year — and it’s a trend that’s shown no sign of letting up. Consequently, I’ve found myself putting together mini-wish lists of sorts related to fall since … about July? That makes it tough on the bank account (and my psyche) to hold out that long, of course. It’s exciting looking ahead though — to many, fall is an optimal season for #menswear, what with a plethora of options for incorporating earthier colors as well as richer textures in everything from corduroy pants to chunkier shawl-collar sweaters and blazers. Spring and summer have their style positives too, of course — airy fabrics and all that potential to play with pops of pattern — but fall just feels right when it comes to men’s style. So without further ado, here’s what I’ve got my eye on for fall — the majority of these are new (or new-ish?) releases and certainly worth a look.

#1. Uniqlo Wool Blended Comfort Jacket — $99

Just three of several outstanding color options, including the Grey Plaid on the left, a nice Wine shade in the middle and a not-so-dark navy.

This Uniqlo blazer has already been a hot seller in some colors, particularly the Wine option pictured above. It’s a wool-blend jacket that perfectly toes the line between casual and crisp — the shorter tail and lack of structure see to that (although that means it might not fit everyone well). It’s available in a wide array of colors, including a grey herringbone, a grey plaid and a classic brown tweed that would look right at home with some dark denim (a la this post). The patch pockets also mean it’s the kind of blazer you could dress down with a rugged henley. Now if only temperatures would drop a bit…

#2. Grayers Avalon Cardigan — $125

A hybrid cardigan that manages to meld casual details and versatile styling potential.

While Grayers has nailed the easygoing prep-casual vibe for spring and summer (as detailed here), it does an equally smart job dishing out fall essentials. This navy marl cardigan features some more unique details that bring it into the casual realm, like kangaroo pockets similar to those on a hooded sweatshirt. The shawl collar and black buttons class it up more, though — it’s definitely a piece that could pair remarkably well with a chambray shirt and dark navy chinos. And, as always, shawl-collar cardigans remain the ultimate cold-weather layering piece for just about anything else – take a tip from this photo, for starters.

#3. Thursday Boots Roughout President Boot — $249

A sleeker profile than most boots gives this pair an edge for fall.

Thursday Boots burst into the digital menswear community late last year with a Kickstarter campaign that really blew the doors off ($276,610 pledged of just a $30,000 goal), and the brand’s really built something since. The brand’s President Boot (a permanent fixture on the site but still worth a look) boasts a lower profile and slimmer silhouette than something like a Red Wing Iron Ranger , minus the captoe. And as far as fall footwear goes, that’s a very good thing. These boots look like they can take a substantial beating, and yet they’d still sit right at home under some textured grey trousers or black denim.

#4. GREATS Brand Royale High Sneakers — $179

The medium grey color should make this pair fit for all kinds of outfit duty, from work to play.

There’s something about high-top sneakers and fall that just goes well together, in my humble opinion. A return to colder temperatures bring about a return to sturdier footwear — and that extends to sneakers, as well. It’s time, then, to put away some of my favorite GREATS sneakers and look forward — or rather, wish for — a new pair in the closet. The Brooklyn-based sneaker gurus appear to have brought their trademark reputation for quality to this high-top set as well, merging a Margom sole with full-grain calfskin leather for a supple sneaker that’s the ideal finishing touch to a sporty-casual outfit (say, some rust chinos and maybe that Grayers cardigan above). That grey color also would help ground earthier tones in an outfit — crucial when you’d like to wear sneakers to the office. (Editor’s note: Look for a travel-centric feature focused on GREATS sneakers coming next month on The Style Guide).

#5. Todd Snyder Mercer Sweatpant in Moss — $175

Just sweatpants, right? Think again, because they combine premium materials and a slim cut — just like your best chinos.

There’s no doubt that I’m a fan of crisp, polished looks — be it a sturdy pair of dark denim or some slim chinos with a blazer. But as the temperatures start to fall, I always find myself drawn to sportier, throwback-oriented looks — like nearly every item from Todd Snyder’s always-stunning collections (and these sweatpants specifically). The offerings always seem to meld American sportswear sensibilities with the designer’s eye for lux finishing touches, yet fall is really where this shines through. Keep in mind, we’re still talking about sweatpants here. And at the end of the day, that’s an awful lot of cash to throw at a pair, when some definitely prefer to keep things crisp throughout an ensemble. But there’s something to be said for upgrading even your most basic items, like sweats. And with a pair this well-made and slim-cut, they’d make for a heck of a casual weekend outfit when paired with a certain set of sneakers on this list (*cough* item number four) and a great cardigan (*cough item number two).

With so much excellent fall gear in stores now, it was definitely tough to sort through this year’s autumn crop (see what I did there?). J. Crew introduced a Ludlow sportcoat in Italian garment-dyed cotton that barely missed the cut, and among highly wearable shirt-jackets, Saturdays NYC looks to again have a winner with its Jeremiah CPO Jacket. Long-term, a classic Shinola leather watch also remains on my wish list (a guy can dream, right?). But with any luck, some of these items will indeed end up in my closet before winter — right?

What’s on your fall style wish list this year? What brands have you been keeping an eye on?

July 15, 2015 by Beau H.

Todd Snyder Spring/Summer 2016 Collection Preview

The designer’s collection preview took place at Skylight Clarkson Square, an industrial setting that’s the hub of this year’s shows.

As New York Fashion Week: Men’s progresses, it’s easy to get caught in the whirlwind of colors and styles flying down the runways. What does it mean to the average shopper on the streets or your average PR guy behind his laptop? If you’re worried about being overwhelmed by a fashion runway, Todd Snyder is here to sooth those doubts with a stunning – and highly wearable – spring offering. If you’re not familiar with Todd and are curious about dipping your toes in the ‘fashion’ waters, be sure to give his offerings a look — best-known for producing classic Americana sportswear pieces, he also does admirable tailored pieces and envy-inducing suede bomber jackets (more on those below).

Strong outerwear (as seen on the right) and lightweight, sportier pieces like the white knit, seen on the left, characterized the collection.

I had the chance to attend Todd’s collection preview on Tuesday night with my friends over at Brothers & Craft. Menswear luminaries like Nick Wooster and A-listers like Dwayne Wade were also on-hand at Skylight Clarkson Square, the massive hub of this year’s shows (catch up with my tweets from the show here). Luckily for us consumers, the collection is on-point – and likely features a few items you’ll have to start saving for … right about now.

One of several lightweight knit pieces paired with drawstring pants.

Color and texture was a huge part of the show, inspired by the Italian beaches of Bagni di Tiberio — a historical vacation hub for famous artists and creatives. The biggest takeaway from that tidbit is that the collection certainly feels ready for days spent by the sea. Linen cardigans and band-collar shirts were layered with easygoing shorts and drawstring pants – nothing too imposing, a la the typical Thom Browne show.

One of the nicest pieces of outerwear in the show — a sporty yet durable-looking take on the varsity jacket from the designer’s Champion collaboration.

Plenty of rugged heritage and workwear-leaning pieces, like faded tanktops and short-sleeve military shirts from the designer’s collaboration with Champion, were also trotted out – good news that it’s back again. Todd Snyder’s outerwear has historically been a strong point of his collections, and it’s an area that doesn’t disappoint here – he sent out classic belted trench coats, trim bombers in neutral colors like grey & navy and military field jackets, all items that definitely work for layering during the rainy days of spring and potentially back into the fall. Sweaters galore in rumped, lightweight linen and linen-cotton blends were also on display – those are pieces that can be layered over shorts and with spring & summer tees and polos particularly.

The designer’s relatively affordable White Label line is set to feature classics like a medium-blue piped tuxedo.

And Todd’s tailored collection (the White Label line sold through Nordstrom) is back again for SS16, featuring classic piped tuxedo jackets in navy and black, and at least one white linen suit. While that’s a bold move unless you’re heading to an all-white party, the key here is that while still pricey, Todd’s suiting line sticks to classic basics done in a refined way – maybe save a bit (or a lot) here and there to pick one up as a splurge? Oh, and one last thing – if you find yourself looking for a pair of sandals to wear, the designer’s collaboration with Cole Haan is back again, featuring artisanal Italian leather sandals (maybe keep those to the beach unless you’ve got some serious style cred, yeah?).

While some designers seem to get lost up in the art form of a show, others stick to sending out clothes that guys can – and will – actually wear. Todd Snyder’s SS16 collection definitely hit that mark admirably, and it does so in a way that’s extremely accessible to the general public, from lightweight layering pieces to easygoing pants, strong outerwear and crisp tailored wear. Whether or not you find yourself drawn toward some sandals next spring is entirely in your court.

Any favorite looks from this collection? What pieces are you looking forward to breaking out or buying (if any) when spring rolls around, and what do you like from the designer right now?

July 14, 2015July 13, 2015 by Beau H.

The GQ x New York Fashion Week: Men’s Lounge

A showcase for American menswear designers that’s been years in the making.

Unless you live under a rock (or maybe even if you do), you might have heard that the beginning of this week marks the start of the first-ever New York Fashion Week: Men’s. In short, the event is something of a watershed moment for the fashion industry, as this week marks the first time that American menswear designers in particular have been given a dedicated outlet to showcase upcoming seasonal collections, as designers in London and elsewhere receive. How big is that? Some were saying the American #menswear industry was dying out in relation to fashion week as of just a few years ago. So what does all this mean for the average consumer? Well, American designers like Todd Snyder and Billy Reid (of Bond Peacoat fame) are offering their heightened take on staples that’ll actually appear in stores next season. So while outlandish runway pieces likely won’t be up for sale, think of runway shows like auto shows — a look into the creative process of each designer, with lots of fanfare and hype.

Recharging slightly during Fashion Week: Men’s with a cold one from the esteemed Brooklyn Brewery.

And what does all this mean for those within the #menswear editorial and retail community? Well — a whole lot of hopping around the city to various collection previews and shows (check out the full schedule here). While I’m not as busy as some folks out there, I appreciate the chance to get in on the action and meet up with like-minded folks as part of my postwork editorial pursuits and my day job working on behalf of Timberland. Lucky for me, GQ’s The Gent Lounge is here to help this week with its #GQFW Lounge. The lounge has previously hosted some stellar events on behalf of the likes of Tiffany & Co., and this week, they’ve teamed up with stellar menswear retailer Mr. Porter and LG Mobile, among others, to curate a recharge lounge.

Some of the style essentials curated by Mr. Porter and GQ at the lounge.

Along with some distinctly shoppable and drool-worthy wares from Mr. Porter as part of the brand’s partnership with GQ on monthly collections, there was also a nice selection of tasty craft brews from Brooklyn Brewery. Attendees also got a closer look at the new LG G4 Smartphone , which comes complete with a sharp leather case available in a variety of colors. In fact, my friend Leo Chan of popular blog Levitate Style is testing out the phone all across the city as part of this week’s events, and photographers were snapping portraits with the phone itself. And the lounge has done a nice job of curating products for a life lived stylishly, from dishware to vintage issues of GQ and home accessories. It was the ideal way to start what’s sure to be a busy week. Tuesday’s ventures will hopefully include a viewing of Todd Snyder’s Spring 2016 wares with my friends at Brothers & Craft — stay tuned!

June 8, 2015June 8, 2015 by Beau H.

Style Q+A: Brothers and Craft

The four founding brothers (as it were) of Brothers & Craft. Photo courtesy of the brand.

Throughout the course of my day job and attending events through the GQ Insider program, I’m fortunate to meet some pretty cool people who also happen to share a similar outlook on life and style & fashion in general. At April’s GQ x Tiffany’s CT60 Watch Collection Preview, I met Clay Chambers of outstanding creative lifestyle brand and blog Brothers & Craft. If you know the site or follow them on Instagram, you’ll know that they (meaning brothers Kirk, Zac and Clay, who founded the site with their oldest brother Ryan in 2012) really have a tremendous eye for style and outstanding visuals in general, which leads to some pretty cool partnerships. In fact, the trio recently roamed the state of Kentucky as part of a project with the state’s tourism department (the brothers were born nearby in east Tennessee). I got the chance to chat with Clay recently about B & C, who’s on the rise in the world of #menswear, and of course, the best places to grab a bite or a drink in two very cool cities — the brand’s two bases, Charleston and NYC.

The Style Guide: Take me through the story of starting Brothers & Craft; when did your vision for it begin to develop and when you did know you were onto something that resonated with people?

Brothers & Craft: Our building blocks look different than most guys you might talk to in the menswear world. We were raised to appreciate craftsmanship and resourcefulness. Our mom would teach us how to sew and tailor our own clothing, teach us how to cook, and even drag us around on weekends to yard sales where we’d pick up old furniture and refurbish it ourselves. So Brothers & Craft began as a creative outlet to share the things we were wearing and creating. Zac would make pocket squares and bow ties and put them on the blog. Kirk would hand make a wooden wine rack and take you through the process of how he built it. Or Ryan (our oldest brother who started with us) would teach you how to make your tie skinnier. So there’s always been an element of “how-to-for-men” tied into what we do, but we’ve always wanted the blog to serve as a place where we share our creativity. We’ve been fortunate enough that influential Instagrammers would show love and shout us out, so that’s helped us build our own audience.

TSG: In recent years, we’ve seen a lot of guys become way more interested in style; what’s one piece of advice you would give to guys just finding their personal style?

B&C: In the past, dressing well in America –as an idea– has sometimes been inextricably linked to being effeminate. I’m not sure where that comes from, but it’s nice to see that the average guy can now feel more comfortable building his own style without facing judgement from others. That said, crafting your own swag or style, to me, always starts with simplicity. Find timeless clothing items you like, and look for colors that blend well with them. I happen to love neutrals and earth tones because they don’t ask for attention. So for much of fall and winter I wear pieces army green, browns, navy, beige, and so on. So maybe in the summer you like wearing blazers with a pair of nice fitting denim and tassel loafers. Test the waters with the fits on both, and perfect what you like. From there, it’s about tweaking details and little pieces so you don’t get bored with your staples.

Kirk Chambers rocking a spring style get-up in Charleston. Photo courtesy of Brothers & Craft.

TSG: Your team splits time between Charleston & NYC; what’s that like in terms of the differences in locale and fashion when you travel back and forth?

B&C: Right now Zac and I live in Brooklyn, and Kirk’s based in Charleston with his wife and kids. Things move slower in Charleston. People are laidback and friendly, the weather is amazing, and the architecture carries such a rich history. It has so much eighteenth century swag, which is uncommon for most other southern cities. Back in New York, though, I get so energized by cultural diversity and the nightlife; they help make it what it is. And anywhere you walk there seems to be new restaurants, coffee shops, bars, art galleries, and clothing stores popping up each month. But behind the touristy facade of midtown Manhattan, there’s a deeper, more cohesive side to New York in each neighborhood. The local spots define the streets and they bring people together in many ways.

Clay Chambers during a recent trip to Charleston for the city’s Fashion Week this past spring. Photo courtesy of Brothers & Craft.

TSG: And for those heading to Charleston or NYC anytime soon, what’s one spot to check out?

B&C: The food scene in Charleston is second to none! Waking up there, head to Saint Alban for coffee and pastries; it’s a European style cafe. Strolling along downtown or the battery is beautiful, where palmettos and pastel colored mansions fill each street. For lunch, head back up to Leon’s Oyster Shop for chicken and oysters. You need to have dinner at Edmund’s Oast, too — the charcuterie there is mind blowingly good. In New York City–and I don’t care how much people talk about it — you need to spend time at the Highline Park in Chelsea. Summers there are magical, especially at night. My favorite cafe in the city is near Columbia University on the Upper West Side, called the Hungarian Pastry Shop. They have the best cakes and desserts!

Zac Chambers rocking a double-zip Todd Snyder bomber. Photo courtesy of Brothers & Craft.

TSG: Who are your personal style icons, someone who’s shaped the way you try to dress (if any)?

B&C: I think that things, more than people, inspire what I wear. Maybe it’s acoustic beach music, or an old, tattered rug, or a sleek, modern museum, or even a weathered, faded brick on a building. Photographs are inspiring too; even more, I love coffee table books.

TSG: Is there a go-to outfit you have? If so, what?

B&C: Right now I love wearing loafers, a fitted pair of chinos, an oxford shirt, and soft shell bomber jacket. Such a great, simple combo.

TSG: Lastly — what’s your favorite clothing brand of the moment (menswear-focused or otherwise)? And one brand to watch across the next year or so?

B&C: I really respect Todd Snyder’s pieces. He does such a wonderful job modernizing the fits to classic American sportswear. I also love Sid Mashburn, his suiting pieces have such a smooth, Italian fit. In streetwear, watch out for Zanerobe. It’s already built a successful name for itself, but it continues to really grow exponentially each season.

Be sure to check out Brothers & Craft both at the brand’s site and Instagram.

May 2, 2015May 2, 2015 by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Cole Haan x Todd Snyder Hammond Wing Oxford

Editor’s note: Expect these posts weekly detailing one standout item coveted by yours truly. Sometimes, these fit within budgetary restrictions and other times, they’re expensive splurges worth saving for — sort of like the wingtips below. For more Wish List items from Beau, head here, and to see other Style Picks, head here.

A spring and summer-appropriate suede wingtip.

The start of spring and summer brings lots of opportunity for mixing in newer, brighter colors and prints into outfits — but touches of texture shouldn’t be left out either. Suede is a material that works in the fall as well, to be sure, but it’s perhaps no more at home than on a standout pair of dress-casual shoes in the spring and summer. That’s what makese these Hammond Wing Oxfords from the Cole Haan x Todd Snyder collaboration such a stunner. The medium tan suede and darker brick-red sole would sit perfectly well under a pair of crisp chambray trousers and a lightweight blazer for working hours, and this is also the kind of shoe that can pair with lightwash or dark denim and a casual pocket T-shirt, too (if you’re willing to blur the lines between high-low style a bit). The suede wingtip would also work with a lighter grey chino and a crisp polo.

Two other color options are available in the same style — both equally ready for warm weather.

Now, there are certainly cheaper summer dress shoe alternatives out there (like these Kenton Suede Wingtips from J. Crew or an even simpler pair of oxfords from J. Crew Factory). However, Todd Snyder is running a private sale through this Sunday, and it looks like this style (as well as alternative color options like the above Navy or a medium grey Ironstone) get the 30% markdown — with a good range of sizes available, too (just use the code ‘PRIVATE30’ at checkout). In regards to that price, you’re really paying for quality and an innovative collaboration. The noted American designer has carved out a good chunk of his business from pairings with classic, sportswear-minded brands like P.F. Flyers and Champion, so this dressier-leaning footwear collaboration is a nice step forward. The fact that the above shoes could pair with multiple different outfits (from summer weddings to summer barbecques and the office in between) should hopefully make that higher price point worth it.

Have you picked up any shoes from the Cole Haan x Todd Snyder collaboration? How would you style these?

February 10, 2015February 10, 2015 by Beau H.

The long way home: Recapping a winter weekend in Michigan

Men's Style
#menswear, bonobos, everlane, men's fashion, men's style, Navali, todd snyder, travel style, weekend style
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Me (Beau) posing in front, yes, Beaumont Tower on MSU’s iconic campus. Overcoat by Kenneth Cole. Scarf by J. Crew Factory. Glasses by Warby Parker.

This past weekend, I had the awesome opportunity to go back home — to my home state of Michigan, to my college “home base” (Michigan State University) and to a great town where I made so many great memories and great friends — East Lansing! Although getting into town was arduous thanks to the weather (a 50-minute flight from Detroit to Lansing was delayed by 4 hours), I eventually made it with my Navali Stowaway Weekender in tow and had more than enough time to hit the town both nights.

Most of the spread for this past weekend in Michigan. Sweaters and shirts top left, bags top right. Jeans, shoes and socks bottom left. Dopp kit and other accessories on the bottom right.

I packed pretty heavy on the winter clothes for this particular trip, and with good reason — it was pretty chilly throughout the weekend, just as I suspected it would be. My outfit of choice on Friday ended up being both comfortable and versatile for both the flight and going out in East Lansing later that same night — I paired my Reigning Champ crewneck sweater with my Bonobos blue OCBD (similar option here) and brown Travel Jeans (as seen in the photo below), along with my wingtip boots (a prized pickup from JC Penney now out of stock, unfortunately). My red J. Crew socks proved a nice complement to the entire outfit, too — and it’s a positive that the ensemble was so comfortable, as I had to hop on a ride with my good friend Matt to get halfway to Lansing from Detroit on Friday after a lengthy delay!

Allegheny Oak Travel Jeans from Bonobos, along with a Reigning Champ crewneck sweater and brown JCP wingtip boots for Friday’s flight.

On Saturday, I paired my extremely warm Todd Snyder cardigan with a rugged dark chambray shirt from GAP (as you can see below). This combination fortunately proved warm and pretty stylish for cheering on Michigan State basketball and hitting up some great bars in East Lansing (any fans of the Peanut Barrel out there?). Checking out MSU’s beautiful campus was also a huge highlight — my Kenneth Cole overcoat (now sold out), J. Crew Factory scarf and Target Merona gloves (similar option here)were worthy and much-needed accessories throughout the trek across East Lansing. My trusty pair of Bonobos dark denim worked great in tandem with the rest of my outfit, and I took a chance by wearing my Billy Reid x K-Swiss brown leather sneakers — probably one of my favorite pairs of shoes. They held up fine in the snow, although wingtip boots might have been a better option. To keep my feet warm, I threw on a pair of J. Crew ribbed stripe socks — the darker blue hues tied the rest of the outfit together nicely.

Saturday’s outfit — Dark chambray shirt by GAP, shawl-collar cardigan by Todd Snyder. Not pictured: Bonobos dark slim jeans, Billy Reid x K-Swiss brown leather sneakers.

For what proved to be a particularly lengthy travel day (more on that below), I kept things simple and wore my white henley from Everlane along with my Bonobos Travel Jeans and wingtip boots for both comfort and polish. Later in the day, I also changed into my charcoal American Apparel crewneck pocket tee. Unfortunately, what should have been a quick flight from Lansing to Detroit was delayed by roughly 4 hours — this, combined with another delay in Detroit, put me home at about 1 a.m. Sunday night! That made work a bit rough the next day. However, the trip was truly great overall — it was so fun to see great, great friends and even that made the lengthy delays much more bearable. As far as packing goes, I was well-prepared for the weather and also able to get around in style. I stayed warm in comfortable thanks to the sweaters and casual shirts in my bag, while my Bonobos jeans are quickly proving to be the most comfortable pants in my rotation — well worth checking out a pair. This trip combined so many great things and really made me appreciate my college experience even more — that’s worth far more than a lengthy plane delay.

Any harrowing travel stories to share? What are you bringing in your bag when you hit the road?

February 6, 2015February 13, 2015 by Beau H.

Bundled up: Packing for a chilly Michigan weekend

Although I’m based in Brooklyn now (along with my amazing girlfriend Liz), my roots are in mid-Michigan. I grew up twenty minutes from Michigan State University, wrote and edited news and sports for three years at The State News and absolutely consider myself a Spartan at heart — sorry to disappoint any Wolverine fans reading the blog (see you in October, yes?). So all of that makes this weekend pretty special — I’m flying back into Lansing, Mich., on Friday and taking the short drive down the road to reconnect with great friends from both high school and college.

A picture from my stint as sports editor at The State News, circa spring 2014 (I’m on the far left).

It’s an exciting trip, one that I’ve been looking forward to for a while. With that being said, I’m still aiming to get around in style. It should be a pretty chilly weekend back in the Mitten (unlike a trip this past summer to San Francisco), so I’m aiming to to be warm and still look good. Of course, I’ll be bringing all my gear in my trusty Navali Stowaway Weekender and a well-worn Kenneth Cole Reaction messenger bag. Check out the photos and line-up below to see what’s trip-worthy.

Most of what’s going in the bag this weekend. Sweaters and shirts top left, bags top right. Jeans, shoes and socks bottom left. Dopp kit and other accessories on the bottom right. Not pictured: Overcoat, scarf and gloves.

Kenneth Cole Wool-Blend Overcoat (Sold out; for more on great topcoats, click here)

J. Crew Factory Scarf and Target Merona Black Leather Gloves (Sold-out; similar option here)

Todd Snyder shawl-collar cardigan (Sold-out; similar option here)

Reigning Champ Raglan Crewneck Sweatshirt (Budget-friendly option here)

Bonobos Rhodes Collar Blue OCBD (Similar option here)

GAP Chambray Shirt

Everlane White Henley

American Apparel Charcoal Jersey Pocket T-shirt

Bonobos Slim Tailored Travel Jeans in Allegheny Oak (Review here)

Bonobos Slim Tailored Blue Jeans in Resin Dark Rinse

Target Merona Braided Leather Belt

Perry Ellis Black Webbed Belt

JCP Stafford Camlin Wingtip Boots (Sold-out; similar option here)

Billy Reid x K-Swiss Leather Sneakers

J. Crew Factory Printed Socks

J. Crew Ribbed Stripe Socks and Red Foulard Socks (Sold out; similar option here)

Stuhrling Aquadiver Manta Ray Watch

Invicta Pro Diver 8926 Watch

For toiletries: J. Crew Factory Dopp Kit and Brickell Men’s Products Face Wash & Moisturizer

At first glance, that might seem like a lot of clothes for one weekend. However, each piece has its purpose in combatting the cold Michigan weather. I plan to wear the crewneck sweatshirt, blue OCBD, Bonobos Travel Jeans and wingtip boots on the plane, layered under my charcoal overcoat. That same combination should feasibly work on Friday out and about in East Lansing, although based on conditions on the ground there, I might switch over to my leather sneakers for more casual wear.

A close-up look at some personal favorites. Pictured: Billy Reid x K-Swiss sneakers, GAP chambray and Bonobos Travel Jeans in Allegheny Oak.

For the rest of the weekend, I plan to layer either the Reigning Champ crewneck or Todd Snyder cardigan (a recent purchase —check out another photo here) with my Everlane henley, the GAP chambray shirt or the charcoal pocket T-shirt. Any combination should work well given the weather and the relatively interchangeable colors of each piece. And since the trip should involve some visits to East Lansing’s finer establishments, either sweater should also look stylish but not too dressy. If the weather proves warmer than expected, any of the above shirts could be worn on their own, too.

I’m definitely looking forward to wearing more casual outfits this weekend, as I tend to stay pretty dressed up during the week. On the accessories front, either casual belt should fit right in — since my sneakers are a rugged, worn-in brown leather and part of casual pairings, I’m not too concerned about matching with the casual black belt from Perry Ellis or my black rubber-strap watch.

The key accessories for this trip. Pictured: J. Crew Factory Dopp Kit, Perry Ellis Black Webbed Belt, Target Merona Braided Leather Belt, Invicta & Stuhrling Watches, along with some Brickell Men's Products.

The key accessories for this trip. Pictured: J. Crew Factory Dopp Kit, Perry Ellis Black Webbed Belt, Target Merona Braided Leather Belt and Invicta & Stuhrling watches, along with some recent pick-ups from Brickell Men’s Products.

That brown leather belt from Target’s Merona line has proven to be durable and versatile as well, bringing the right amount of fall and winter texture to casual outfits. It can be worn with either set of shoes, too (on that note — if it proves extremely snowy, the sneakers might have to stay in the bag). With a lot of varying shades of blue in various outfits, darker navy or red socks should offer a nice contrast, while the grey patterned socks can be worn casually with any combination (because matching your socks to your pants is old-fashioned, right?).

As to my accessories, I’m admittedly a watch guy — my collection recently grew to include a Form-Function-Form No. 8 Chromexcel Horween leather strap. However, for maximum versatility, I’ll be bringing my silver Invicta dive watch to pair with either belt or shoe combination (for more on the watch, see the above review). I’m also packing a black rubber-strap watch as a second, more casual option. Of course, no trip would be complete without a handy (and stylish) dopp kit, like the terrific olive waxed cotton option from J. Crew Factory pictured above. Mine will definitely include some skincare essentials I just picked up from Brickell Men’s Products. With all the above in mind, hopefully this bag is packed for maximum versatility and style.

Next week, check back for a recap on the trip and this packing plan!

What’s in your bag when you hit the road? Any travel must-haves?

December 18, 2014 by Beau H.

2014 Men’s Style Christmas Wish List

If you’re a newly burgeoning or seasoned style enthusiast, there are lots of enviable, investment-worthy items out there that you’d presumably like to have in your wardrobe (I know I’ve got my share!). Unfortunately, cost is simply prohibitive for some of these items — but the holidays (and the end of the year) are a great time to set new aspirational style goals and yes, dream of what Santa might be putting under the tree this year. If you’ve got your gift giving all taken care of, great! Onto your style wish list. If not, get on it! (This guide from earlier this week could help). It seems like there are new pieces that pop up on the personal wish list every day, but these are the highlights this season.

#1. Allen Edmonds Bleecker Street Captoe Boot, $345 (On Sale)

As sharp a pair of dress/casual boots on the market.

A pair of Allen Edmonds shoes made last year’s Christmas Wish List, and these boots are certainly worthy of that same distinction. Available in several eye-catching shades from the venerable American retailer, (including the classic Bourbon Calf shown above) this pair of boots would look as great with a suit as they would with dark denim and a striped henley. They’re certainly sleek, but the captoe breaks them up visually, making them a little more casual. And the ankle boot style is perfect for fall and winter, although at this price, they’d be a tremendous pair of year-round shoes.

#2. Shinola Runwell 41mm Leather Watch, $550

A classic in the making.

Shinola has exploded across the past roughly two years in terms of hype and media attention, with increased production and an even greater brick-and-mortar presence planned for 2015. The company’s ethos speaks for itself: sturdy, American-made products that combine great style with an authentic vibe (although there’s more to that ‘authentic vibe’ than meets the eye). While plenty of different colorways and strap combos are available (including a lovely burgundy-dial timepiece), the cream face and dark brown leather strap of the watch above caught my eye particularly. The dial isn’t absurdly dressy of course, but the watch has a certain refined air that could allow one to pull it off with a winter-weight suit and dress boots.

#3. Scotch and Soda Ralston Slim-Fit Jeans, $149

A slim, dark pair of jeans as worn by James Bond (off the screen, that is).

When most people think of high-quality denim, Scotch and Soda might not be that high on the list — after all, there are other brands making excellent denim on the cheap. However, this pair of Scotch & Soda jeans has something special going for them – they’re the same style and wash frequently worn by Daniel Craig; on top of that, they’re a solid, clean dark wash with a slim cut. Criticize Craig as James Bond, sure, but you can’t deny his excellent style on and off the screen. Additionally, yours truly once had the great fortune of owning a pair of the Ralstons — an untimely rip after years of hard wear ended that great run though, and these ended up back on the wish list as a result. Maybe one day…

#4. The Hill-side Cotton Herringbone Tweed Tailored Jacket, $396

A rugged jacket that’s ready for winter.

Brooklyn-based The Hill-side has a great thing going right now — a partnership with J. Crew is an excellent reflection of their current momentum. And the aesthetic — clean, well-made basics in unique fabrics and styles — is working very well for them. The above blazer captures that vibe perfectly. It looks to have a tailored cut and the ability to wear it casually with dark denim or some seasonally-appropriate burgundy cords. The patch pockets dress it down slightly, as does the marled herringbone tweed texture. On a budget-friendly note, Uniqlo makes a cheaper, similar-looking alternative here, although sizes are very slim at the moment.

#5. Todd Snyder x Champion Baseball Jacket Sweater, $295

A vintage-looking, sport-inspired shawl cardigan for when it gets cold.

Todd Snyder’s brand continues to rise quickly through the menswear world. He’s already taken home a slew of accolades in recent years, and he’s hit the sweet spot as far as designers who perfect a tailored, casual-rugged vibe. His collaborations with Champion always seem to be a major hit, and one would hope the high prices are a reflection of the inherent quality — thankfully, other pieces in the collaboration aren’t as expensive (when on-sale, at least). This baseball “jacket-sweater” looks thick and warm, and it also gives off a rugged, stylish vibe thanks to the sport-inspired trim and cuffs. The shawl collar is another masculine touch, too. Thus, it makes this wish list.

What’s on your style Christmas wish list? Any thoughts on this list? Leave them below!

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