Tag / travel style tips for men

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: A Mid-Winter Break in Florida

Best travel shirt for men.

My friends, the headline says it all in today’s Friday Read: I’m off to Florida for a quick but much-needed mid-winter break after #NYFW, a quick but relaxing jaunt to Fort Myers. As the photo above suggests, you might say it’s “time” to get away, and when I hit the road this Friday, I’ll be dressed in style in some of the best travel clothing from Huckberry. Specifically, I’ll be wearing my Proof Passport Shirt, a durable and stretch-filled shirt made from sturdy fabric and packed with plenty of pockets for your everyday carry (and mine!). Is it the perfect travel shirt? Follow along on my Instagram to find out.

Learn more at Huckberry

In the meantime, you should head on over to Huckberry to shop plenty more of the best travel gear on the planet, and of course, you should — again! — give me a follow on Instagram to keep up with my fun in the Florida sun and my freelance writing pursuits. Believe it or not, my boss (me!) gave me the day off today and tomorrow, and I’ll be using that time to kick back by the pool, catch up with family and watch Michigan State basketball. Cheers to that indeed, right? And cheers to you — thanks for reading, as always!

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by Beau H.

The Friday Read: A Journey Across the Pond to… Morocco

In the course of my freelance writing pursuits (as you well know if you follow me on Instagram!), I’m presented with the opportunity to do some pretty remarkable things, be it writing about luxury watches, sampling opulent bourbon or traveling to London to try the world’s best Scotch. Of course, this blog and my other writing pursuits keep me plenty busy and present opportunities all their own, but none quite like the journey I’ve undertaken this week.

Over these past few days, I’ve had the lifetime chance to hop on a plane and hop across the pond — not to Europe, but to the famed city of Tangier, Morocco, where I’ve hunkered down for the week at the new Fairmont Tazi Palace Tangier. A review will follow on Maxim.com, but again, my Instagram has an inside look at the stunning accommodations!

Talk about an opportunity for a “work trip” not to be passed up, particularly as a chance to start the new year and escape the cold grey of New York City. Myself and my fellow journalists have explored the city on foot, sipped on cocktails throughout the resort, and generally enjoyed (an understatement!) this iconic destination. I won’t spoil it all, but it’s been stunning.

While I don’t write travel reviews on the daily, I’m becoming more acquainted with jetting from one destination to the next, honing my writing skills and eye for detail along the way (a never-ending quest!). And to get the chance to do that in such a historic city, and in such a luxurious locale, is nothing short of remarkable, frankly. Again, you can look for a full review in the days ahead at Maxim.com, but for now, I think I’ll take in the sights and sounds of the city one last time before heading home. As always: Thanks for reading and for your support!

by Beau H.

Across the Pond, Part 2: A Family Trip to Ireland, Scotland and England

Paying homage to bands like The Killers at Royal Albert Hall in London — leg two of a Hayhoe family adventure! My picks for the trip included versatile Allen Edmonds Chelsea boots and a great Grayers jacket.

Although we had a break of a few days for more regularly scheduled content here on The Style Guide — such as our Style Pick of the Week — we’re back with a full recap from last week’s lengthy, busy and incredible Hayhoe family trip to Ireland, Scotland and England! Following an overnight flight to Dublin, we spent time at the Guinness Storehouse, the Cliffs of Moher and Galway before making our way to Edinburgh and then London. In fact, you can (and should!) check out part one before getting into part two. Do you have any experience with traveling to any of these countries? If so, hopefully you agree with the day trips we took and the sights we saw — not to mention the menswear I packed! Traveling with versatility and weather-ready durability in mind was the name of the game. And with Dublin and Edinburgh in the books, I packed up my  WP Standard Leather Messenger Bag and grabbed a coffee (or two … or three) to start the day.

Upon our Following our arrival in London on Wednesday, I knew that layering up for the chilly weather would continue to be critical. I threw on a ruggedly stylish piece from Taylor Stitch — the tough Heavy Bag Henley from the Taylor Stitch Heavy Bag Collection. Made from upcycled cotton and featuring that tailored fit we all know and love from Taylor Stitch, this rugged men’s henley was perfect for London. The combo paired up quite well with my Grayers Edgeware Coated Cotton Moto Jacket — the tough waxed cotton and handy front snap button pockets handled the demands of hauling around everyday carry essentials as we explored the city and shopped at famed department store Harrods. I stayed on time throughout with my Timex x Todd Snyder MS1 Maritime Watch,  this time swapped out for a brown leather watch strap from Form-Function-Form (two watches in one!).

Wearing a Todd Snyder flannel — teamed with black Abercrombie & Fitch denim and Allen Edmonds Chelsea boots — for a bit of rock n’roll-inspired style at Rough Trade Records.

Major highlights included some excellent time spent Thursday evening at the  legendary Rough Trade Records— the venerable label’s Brooklyn outpost is one of my favorite spots back in NYC, and visiting the London location was just as much of a treat.  To stay comfortable and light on my feet, my sleek Allen Edmonds Liverpool Suede Chelsea Boots held up throughout our stay in London (which also included a Friday night viewing of revered American musical “Hamilton” in London’s West End!). The next time your travels take you across different countries in the chilly early spring weather, reach for durable outerwear, easy-to-wear boots and warm, essential layers from brands like Taylor Stitch. 

Wearing Donegal trousers and Chelsea boots in a nod to cold weather in the U.K. — the perfect outfit for exploring the world of Harry Potter!

Earlier on Thursday in London, I once again focused on warm layering via my Grayers Edgeware Coated Cotton Moto Jacket, paired up with JackThreads Donegal Trousers and the durable Allen Edmonds Liverpool Suede Chelsea Boots for a bit of sharp, mobile style. I completed the combo with a rugged, classic shawl-collar cardigan from Life/After/Denim. Great menswear and a day in London? How could it get any better? Oh, that’s an easy answer. We spent an incredible and very, very worthwhile day on our feet via the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London, celebrating the making of Harry Potter! It’s a must-visit for any Harry Potter fan (and the place was positively packed with them throughout the day!). This extraordinary book and film series has left an indelible mark on my life — it’s been a family staple since I was in first grade, from Halloween costumes to summertime reading to midnight movie theater showings, all the way to a recent trip to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter earlier this year! Needless to say, I was so thrilled to be on the tour, as were my mom, dad and sister.

With Thursday in the books, it was nearly time to cap off our trip — not before a last day of exploration in one of my new favorite cities, however! I stepped into the durable Todd Snyder x P.F. Flyers Grounder Hi-Tops, featuring classic looks and plenty of comfort for a long day on my feet. My outerwear pick was an easy one — the Grayers Edgeware Coated Cotton Moto Jacket continued to function admirably in the chill of London, and my Timex for J. Crew Field Watch helped me stay on time in rugged, casual style (always a must!). For an evening viewing of “Hamilton,” I changed into my Thursday Boots Wingtip Boots in Cognac Suede. yet I found my sneakers worked quite nicely for a day about town. If you haven’t yet seen “Hamilton,” I’d say it’s worthy viewing even for non-Broadway buffs. Minus a few key geography and name changes to appeal to a mainly British crowd, the production gets everything right — it’s simply stunning.

We wrapped up our London visit with a quick morning stop at the iconic Royal Albert Hall, site of many a famed live show — including a 2009 live concert DVD by one of my favorite bands, The Killers (click here to read more about my concertgoing experiences following this excellent band!). As you can see at the top of the page, I did my best to layer up against an unexpectedly chilly London day, complete with snow flurries. My ever-versatile Allen Edmonds Liverpool Suede Chelsea Boots did the trick when it came to footwear, while a new pair of Scotch and Soda denim (in the excellent Ralston fit) worked just fine for my final day in this great city. Much like the rest of the trip, I just had to throw on my Grayers Edgeware Coated Cotton Moto Jacket to get around (luggage and all) in style.

The long flight back brought our trip to a close — it was a whirlwind, between an overnight flight to kick off leg one, then exciting day trips, plenty of pints of Guinness and great times in three different countries! And there’s nothing like seeing a famed, emotional and impactful musical like “Hamilton” — particularly in London. I’m really grateful to see plenty of new sights all along the way — the Irish countryside is beautiful, so much of Scotland is packed with amazing history, and London probably has as much cosmopolitan charm and modern flair as any city on the planet. To see all of that in just one trip, complete with some quality family time (and the requisite menswear I packed) was a lifetime chance, to say the least! I’ll definitely back — sooner rather than later!

Until the next trip, check back here tomorrow for a new #OOTD post. Thanks for reading! And if you’ve got questions on how to pack for your own overseas trip, feel free to hit me up on Twitter.

-Beau

by Beau H.

The Road Back Home: A Winter Trip to Grand Rapids

Hitting the road to catch up with old family and friends is assuredly of my favorite things to do — although I do appreciate the hustle and bustle of NYC, it’s always nice to get back home. That’s the case whether it’s my adopted home state of Florida, the site of my last #menswear trip, or my native state of Michigan, which still plays host to plenty of beloved family and friends. Yes indeed, just as with a February 2017 trip back to Grand Rapids, I packed up my favorite winter style essentials this past weekend and got ready to see my brother and his family (hi, guys!), plus my lifelong friend (and groom-to-be), Mr. Chris Spyke. There was great craft beer to be had in Beer City U.S.A., to go along with rugged layering of pieces like my Grayers Edgeware Coated Cotton Moto Jacket and classic suede chukkas from Astorflex. It was certainly an early Friday morning getting out of NYC, but it was well worth it — and I did my best to travel in style, of course.

Getting there was quite easy, all thanks to my dependable Voyager Waxed Weekender — packed with plenty of travel style essentials — from Boarding Pass NYC (always a road trip favorite).  The classic, comfortable Langdon Slim Denim from Abercrombie & Fitch helped me stay comfortable and yet stylish through my flight, while Astorflex came through once again with comfortable suede chukka boots that managed to go from airport to airport and the Grand Rapids beer scene quite easily. To fight the cold (and stay on point in terms of style) the Grayers Edgeware Coated Cotton Moto Jacket proved a handy travel jacket — gotta love those handy front snap pockets — and teamed nicely with an easygoing-yet-sharp, classic men’s shirt from my pals at Todd Snyder. Seriously, you can’t top a tailored weekend shirt in a soft fabric — it works for travel, the office and yes, happy hour brews.  And on the watch front, my Timex x Todd Snyder MS1 Maritime Sport Watch was durable, versatile and travel-ready. When traveling on quick weekend trips, find pieces you love wearing — like classic slim denim and dependable chukka boots — and wear them time and again. Oh, and don’t forget the accessories — my reliable-as-always Huckberry Explorer’s Cap rounded out my ensemble for a laidback day hanging with my nieces and nephews (four in total!), plus catching up with Mr. Spyke and company  later in the day for the first weekend of the incredible (and well-timed) Grand Rapids Beer Month! An absolutely tremendous occasion, and a perfect way to kick off the weekend, complete with stops at spots like Mitten Brewing Co. to get Friday going.

As one might expect, Saturday proved an ideal occasion to break out some of my favorite winter style essentials, pieces that layer up nicely and work for on-the-go brewery-hopping (and some shopping). I layered up with my durable-as-ever Taylor Stitch Yosemite Shirt, a highly coveted piece that I’d recommend you snap up before it’s gone. I also simply had to break out the Taylor Stitch Slim Chinos for style that was polished and able to work all day long.  Again, Taylor Stitch consistently proves its value as a brand, whether grabbing brews in Beer City, U.S.A or hopping from the bar to a show in NYC. And on the watch front, it was easy to reach for the Timex x Red Wing Waterbury Chrono, a consistent favorite that I find myself wearing more days than not — it can be tough to find a stylish leather watch at an affordable price, and Timex consistently delivers.

When you want to make it easy to pack your favorite accessories on the road, reach for a stylish timepiece (and other essentials) that you already love wearing.  Oh, and when it comes to getting around Grand Rapids, even in the snow? My CAT Footwear Abe Canvas Boots (as seen above) got the job done, blending durability with crucial style points. And we certainly had a busy day — there are absolutely some stellar spots you simply have to hit in Grand Rapids on a Saturday, from new brewery City Built Brewing to the Nordic-inspired Sovengard, an excellent spot for cocktails.

Sunday once again called for more citywide exploration, and a terrific brunch at soccer-themed bar SpeakEZ. I also loved the quiet tranquility of the city’s Grand Rapids Art Museum, always a pleasant weekend stop (and a nice way to relax on Sunday after a busy night out and about in GRA). We also grabbed coffee at the excellent Madcap Coffee, followed by beers at the always-tremendous (and continually growing!) Founders Brewing, a Michigan favorite. For a final day braving the G.R. chill, I again turned to CAT Footwear and the brand’s Chronicle Boots, featuring tough plain-toe construction and stylish brown leather that gets better with age. They worked more than admirably on a cold Grand Rapids day — I’d recommend similarly stylish winter boots enough for the remaining weeks (or months) of winter.

I had to complement my outfit yet again with a travel-friendly timepiece, the absolutely fantastic Timex x Todd Snyder MS1 Maritime Sport Watch, featuring welcome new design touches like a domed crystal case, INDIGLO lighting and a sporty NATO strap, calling to mind throwback diving timepieces. In short, it provided some nice visual interest when it came time to layer up for the day — I again threw on my Mission Workshop Bridgeman Peacoat atop a rugged crewneck sweater from my friends at Pistol Lake, complemented by my classic Flint and Tinder denim. The combo helped me kick back, relax and enjoy a few more hours in one of my favorite cities (and it’s not just because of the beer!). When you want to get around a favorite city in the cold weather, layer up with a tough jacket, a sporty NATO strap watch and expertly faded denim for comfort on the road. 

It was unfortunately time once again to head back to NYC — all too soon, if you ask me. I’m grateful to be able to hop a quick flight back to Grand Rapids to see my family and friends, all the while exploring and finding out new things about one of my favorite cities. It’s also a plus to be able to pack and dress in winter style essentials, from made-in-America denim to tough leather boots, a stylish casual watch and a warm thermal shirt.  It’s not all about the packing list, though — I also find that Grand Rapids has something for everybody, from excellent coffee to great beer to a cool shopping and museum scene. Add in great company and times with lifelong friends, and you’ve got a recipe for success.

Are you heading to Grand Rapids soon? Let me know via the comments below, and feel free to say “Hi” via E-mail or The Style Guide Facebook page!

Thanks for reading,

-Beau

by Beau H.

Wonderful, Wonderful: Trekking to Philadelphia to see The Killers

Layered up to catch The Killers in Philly. My Taylor Stitch Albion Jacket and Flint and Tinder All-American Jeans were perfectly casual, rugged pieces for the occasion, along with a Philadelphia-centric United By Blue Bison Cap!


As I sit here to write this post, I’m reflecting on an amazing, music-filled weekend … and I’m listening, of course, to one of my favorite bands of all-time … that’d be The Killers, my friends. Led by frontman Brandon Flowers and his ever-changing bevy of stylish tailoring and outerwear, they’ve been a band I’ve looked up to for years, all the way since my days as a middle school and high school student back in Michigan. I’ve taken the chance to see them as often as I possibly can, from Governors Ball 2016 to last year’s Lollapalooza in Chicago, and I even took two trains and a ferry to see them play in New Jersey last summer. All those evenings have been, simply, the best shows I’ve ever seen! So when this tremendous band announced a new album — the aptly titled “Wonderful Wonderful” — and a tour that brought them up and down the East Coast, I knew I had to hop on board and catch them as many times as possible. That meant an absolutely stellar Tuesday show in Brooklyn, a standout Friday night affair at Madison Square Garden, and of course … a trip down to Philadelphia for one heck of a Saturday night show! There’s nothing I love more than traveling for a bit of live music, so I brought my favorite #menswear with me. I even hit up some new spots in Philly — join me, and turn up your favorite song by The Killers … starting now. It was a busy weekend in the city given the NFL playoffs, which only added to the electric atmosphere. 

The right gear for rocking out and rocking through a day at the office.

The weekend’s fun really started in earnest on Friday, as I dressed for both a day at the office and a Friday night at Madison Square Garden. It’s a lifetime venue for me, and I’ve already been fortunate enough to see some lifetime shows there — including the immortal AC/DC back in September 2016. Following my Tuesday night show at the Barclays Center, with general admission standing tickets in hand no less, I was absolutely just as excited for this extraordinary band to hit the stage on Friday night. To stay warm on a chilly New York day, I bundled up from the ground up, starting with my rugged, durable Allen Edmonds Caen Cap Toe Boots.  With stellar construction and a silhouette that’s surprisingly refined, these boots will work for you at the office or a concert in equal measure. And they teamed up quite well with a pair of slim Mott and Bow jeans, a classic men’s denim option that’s also office-friendly.  On my top half, I stayed warm with my Taylor Stitch Jack Shirt in Indigo Star — always a favorite men’s style essential. I supplemented that with the toasty, sports-inspired Life/After/Denim Collegiate Cardigan, as classic of a rugged winter cardigan as you’re apt to find. It all made for versatile, laidback gear that — when teamed with my Taylor Stitch Maritime Submariner Jacket — got me to and from the show in fine style. On my wrist, my Timex x Todd Snyder Military Watch kept me on time more than effectively. Of course, it was crucial that I show up early and get ready to rock. When you find yourself heading to the office, followed by a rock concert, reach for casual, rugged layers and tough-yet-tailored boots.

And as to the offering on tap? Simply one of the most hit-packed sets you’re apt to find, filled with soaring, beautiful songs, from “Read My Mind” to “A Dustland Fairytale” and the driving power of “For Reasons Unknown,” plus fan favorites like the dance-ready “Human” and the electric “Spaceman.” New hits like “The Man” set the tone for this band early on, too; Brandon Flowers hardly even misses a note! It makes for an emotional, simply incredible evening … and that’s even before the band closes with “When You Were Young” and the iconic “Mr. Brightside,” a song that launched my interest in modern rock music to this day. To stand in a crowd and experience that with thousands of other fans is simply … awe-inspiring. There’s nothing like it, and that’s absolutely why I had to hit the road for round two on Saturday morning!

The right gear for braving the cold, from sturdy CAT Footwear boots to a tough Grayers waxed canvas jacket and a classic elbow-patch shirt from Todd Snyder.

For an early morning train ride down to Philly, I dressed in suitably layered cold-weather style, from a classic Flint and Tinder marled henley to my reliable, warm Todd Snyder Hemingway Elbow Patch Shirt, a personal winter style essential. I capped off that combo with the tough, sharp Grayers Edgeware Coated Cotton Moto Jacket, a slim-fitting, cold weather-ready jacket that I also took with me on a December trip to Toronto to see The National (yep, those guys again). I found the combo worked well for mobile travel style, especially when matched up with a trusty black pair of the Abercrombie & Fitch Langdon Denim, perhaps my favorite pair of jeans at the moment (and equally fitting given Mr. Flowers’ penchant for sporting black jeans or trousers himself). I had to make sure my accessories were both durable and stylish, too — enter a pair of rough-and-tumble CAT Footwear boots (the Abe Canvas is shown above), plus the WP Standard Officer’s Belt in Natural, a handsome belt that’s only gotten better with age. I finished off the combo with my equally durable Timex x Form-Function-Form Horween Leather Weekender,  a crisp-yet-casual watch that kept me on time from the second I arrived in chilly Philadelphia.

Holiday 2017

I’d been to the city only very briefly for my June trip to see The Killers, so I knew there was more that I wanted to explore on foot — powered by coffee from Rival Bros. Coffee, of course. I can never turn down an Americano or a cappuccino, and I was more than ready to power through more of the city. I knew I had to stop at the flagship outpost of one of my favorite brands at the moment — that would be United By Blue (makers of the Holt Work Shirt, as you might have seen in this site’s Style Pick of the Week series). The brand focuses on sustainable style done right, removing trash from our oceans and waterways with each purchase — that sustainable, stylish and craftsmanship-friendly approach is reflected in the brand’s neatly appointed store and coffee shop, perfect for kicking back and relaxing a bit on a chilly winter Saturday. 

My Timex x Red Wing Heritage Waterbury Chrono, always a favorite of mine, was a nice accessory for the day alongside the General Washington Tavern Porter from Yards.


If you know me,  I’m never one to turn down a great brew … right? The chance to check out Philadelphia’s own, much-acclaimed Yards Brewing was one I simply couldn’t pass up. The brewery’s Tavern Porter is not to be missed, nor is the Cape of Good Hope IPA — cheers! And before the show, I knew from my last trip that I had to stop by Cinder, which poured a terrific mix of standout craft beer and cocktails alongside rich, warming dishes like hangar steak and fish & chips. All of which is to say … I was more than prepared and well-fed to see The Killers play yet a third stellar show in one week!

Holiday 2017

There are arguments to be made for seeing a band just once, and there are arguments to be made for seeing a stellar, nearly life-changing band as many times as possible — at least, that’s my philosophy. It’s one that I think makes sense when you consider a generation-defining band like The Killers, who’ve certainly changed my life for the better … it made the show all the more meaningful, even if I did guess (correctly!) that they’d open with new hit single “Wonderful Wonderful” once again. I enjoyed my time at the Wells Fargo Center immensely, and I left grinning ear-to-ear. Covers of both “Romeo and Juliet” and “Shadowplay,” both live fan favorites, went over very well, to say the least. And an encore featuring “Andy, You’re a Star” was a welcome treat, too! Even after three shows in a short span of time, it’ll never get old hearing some of my all-time favorite songs sung by one of my all-time favorite performers. In short, if you get the chance to go see The Killers on this particular tour, or heck … ANY tour … please, take it! It was certainly worth the trip to Philly, and I tried to make the most of my time in the city on Sunday before heading back to NYC.

Holiday 2017

To kick off my day the right way before heading back to NYC, I’d heard great things about Old City Coffee, a charming space in near historic landmarks like the Betsy Ross House. It was a treat to visit, and made for a nice start to the day.  It’s a good thing that I was bundled up to check out more of Philly, as Sunday proved a chilly one in the City of Brotherly Love. My classic Flint and Tinder All-American Jeans were both comfortable and casual, a nice pairing with my remarkably warm and toasty Taylor Stitch Albion Jacket, which I threw on over a rugged winter henley from J. Crew. In keeping with the casual theme of the day, my Todd Snyder x P.F. Flyers Rambler Hi Sneakers were sporty, easy to wear and suitably low-key enough for the rest of my outfit, as was my Timex x Todd Snyder Military Watch; as I always say, never skimp on accessories, your wrist game included.  With my train incoming, I grabbed my Saddleback Leather Rounded Leather Duffel and looked forward to a ride north to NYC — The Killers played in my headphones all the while, of course.

As I’ve said before, there’s nothing to compare to an amazing, extraordinary night — or two nights, or three nights — seeing your favorite band. I felt that remarkable feeling three different times this week, and each show was special in its own way. As long as bands like The Killers keep stepping up to the plate and delivery incredible experiences, I’ll keep hopping on trains — and maybe even planes! — to go see them. Have questions on what to wear to your next rock concert? Feel free to hit me up on Twitter.  Thanks for reading, and thanks for being here as we start 2018 off the right way!

-Beau

Holiday 2017

by Beau H.

A Southern Christmas: Fun in the Fort Myers Sun

Revisiting a Christmas classic & dressed in casual gear from Mack Weldon, Banana Republic & SeaVees.


There’s a certain stretch of year that’s probably my favorite, and no …. it’s not the Governors Ball music festival here in NYC. That favorite time of year would happen to be the holiday season, especially now that I’m further away from my family. I recently traveled to Fort Myers for Thanksgiving, and this past weekend brought me back to down South for a Florida Christmas–that’s on top of a recent early December weekend trip to Orlando and Tampa for the 97X Next Big Thing music festival! Yes indeed, I’ve spent plenty of time down south these last few weeks. In between my recent Florida trips, I went the complete opposite direction, traveling north to Toronto. Rest assured, the Florida sun is certainly much more welcoming. And from trip to trip, I’ve tried my best to bring along my favorite #menswear. Did you dress in holiday travel style this year? As always, I’d love to hear about your own travels over on Twitter. But for now, let’s soak up the sun and head south!

Holiday 2017

Enjoying fun in the Florida sun with my Timex x Todd Snyder Mod Watch & aviators from James Dean Eyewear!

Unlike past trips to Florida, where I’ve had to head right from the office to the plane, this trip gave me the luxury of heading from my apartment onto the plane. So, I packed up my Voyager Waxed Weekender from Boarding Pass NYC (formerly Owen & Fred), and I hit the road! I dressed for comfort and style, throwing on an all-new, super-comfortable Mott and Bow T-shirt, topped off with an easy-to-layer Mott and Bow denim shirt, two stylish pieces that provided comfort and just a bit of casual polish. For even more laidback comfort and mobility, my Proof Nomad Pants, with the construction of a chino and the mobility of a pair of sporty sweatpants, were just the ticket. They teamed more than readily with a pair of classic chukka boots from Astorflex, as perfect a pair of travel footwear as it gets. And to add a bit of visual interest and sharp style, my Timex x Todd Snyder Mod Watch proved effective and reliable. The great part about layering a bit? When I got to Florida, I simply ditched my Mott and Bow denim shirt and wore my Mott and Bow tee! How about that? Point being: The next time you want to head from a chillier locale to a warm one, dress with casual, cool layers in mind — add some mobile chinos, classic chukka boots and a stylish, casual watch.

Holiday 2017

Enjoying the day with my United By Blue Wenlock Chambray Short, Timex x Todd Snyder Blackjack Watch and my trusty Huckberry Explorer’s Cap … plus a great brew!

It’s always nice to get home, get settled and enjoy the beautiful Florida weather — Friday had plenty of that, and it was the perfect segway into a long weekend that proved filled with holiday cheer and relaxation. On Saturday, that meant we enjoyed a relaxing Florida day and an afternoon beach trip, no early wake-up needed! For venturing into Fort Myers, I stepped out in exploration-ready but casual style, starting with my United By Blue Wenlock Chambray Shirt and my Mack Weldon Board Shorts, essential for soaking up some Florida rays. A pair of Reef men’s sneakers proved durable and more than able to take me around town, while my sporty Timex x Todd Snyder Blackjack Watch felt speedy and retro. On the accessories front, keeping my eyes safe from the sun — but doing so in style — was top of mind. My James Dean Eyewear Aviators were my pick, equally classic and modern … plus, well-suited for grabbing a post-beach brew. Days on the water are hard to come by in NYC, as one might imagine, so I relished the chance to get some Florida sun.

Sunday brought with it … well, Christmas Eve, for starters! It’s a Hayhoe family tradition to head to the movies as a family, and after a relaxing morning, that’s just what we did — “The Greatest Showman” was a fun, enjoyable ride . I don’t know if the excitement of Christmas with family will ever quite get old, so I appreciate the chance to keep old traditions going — and of course, I never pass up the chance to dress in style! As seen at the top of the page,  I threw on a casual Banana Republic graphic tee (Cheers!) and paired it up with the Mack Weldon Active Shorts, a frequent favorite when I travel to Florida given the blend of comfort and stretch. A crisp, well-made Timex x Form-Function-Form watch helped me get around in style, featuring rugged good looks and easy wearability — seriously, Timex x Form-Function-Form watches are not to be missed. For striking style and protection from the sun, my James Dean JDS105 sunglasses were the way to go, and classic SeaVees sneakers (in this case, a bright blue take on the SeaVees Hermosa Regatta) proved effective and comfortable on the accessories front. Again, it never gets old when I get the chance to savor family traditions, and that goes for our post-Christmas Eve dinner of shrimp and salad, followed by Christmas Eve presents (pajamas for everyone!) and a traditional reading of “The Night Before Christmas.” After that, off to bed!

Unwrapping some incredible gifts, including a new Todd Snyder shirt, a classic Orvis leather belt and a Newgate clock (via Bespoke Post). Hope you enjoyed your day with loved ones in your life!


Christmas in the Hayhoe household is another tradition I always enjoy — how can you not?? It’s very special to spend the day with family, curled up with great coffee and most likely, a choice Christmas read. We also always enjoy homemade cinnamon rolls and egg casserole. And it’s an important reminder to slow down and take it all in, especially as we close out a busy year. 

I was truly fortunate to receive some amazing gifts, from a Ticketmaster gift card (more live tunes!) to a lovely Todd Snyder dress shirt (seen above!), the terrific book “Manhattan Beach” (by Jennifer Egan) and a classic Orvis belt from my grandparents. Those gifts will absolutely come in handy all year long, and I was so thankful to spend the day relaxing with family in the Florida sun! The trip wasn’t done yet, though. 
Luckily, I had a full day in Florida to take in a last few rays of sunshine in style. I dressed in easygoing, travel-ready gear for the occasion, from my Abercrombie & Fitch Langdon Denim to a Mott and Bow denim shirt. I also layered up for the flight home with a classic Bridge & Burn T-shirt — these new tees are soft, well-tailored and well-made. In short, you can wear these easygoing men’s T-shirts all day without worrying about whether they’ll stretch out. One place you do want a little stretch for both comfort and style? Your jeans. That’s why I reached for my Abercombie & Fitch denim. The A&F denim features a light weight, a pleasingly faded wash and a slim fit — ideal to pair with my classic suede chukka boots from Astorflex. I teamed the combination with my Timex Form-Function-Form Horween Leather Chronograph, a visually interesting watch with a rugged leather strap. I also threw on my reliable-as-ever Huckberry Explorer’s Cap, and finished the look off with stylish sunglasses from James Dean Eyewear.

The next time you’ve got a few hours before your flight, be sure to wear casual style essentials — like a classic denim shirt and stylish suede chukkas that are ready for both travel and adventure in equal measure. As I always say, my trip came to an end much too soon — I always cherish being able to get away from NYC and enjoy time with family, especially during the holiday season. I feel recharged and energized to take on the rest of 2017 and the start of 2018, and I hope you  do, too! More importantly, we’ll have plenty of style content coming at you to get you ready for New Year’s Eve, including a helpful #OOTD that covers, well … what to wear on New Year’s Eve! Look for it tomorrow.

In the meantime, Merry (belated) Christmas and thanks for reading!

-Beau

Holiday 2017

by Beau H.

Turkey Time: Heading to Florida for Thanksgiving

Seeing nothing but great vibes over a sunny Florida weekend spent cheering on MSU and hanging with family!


My friends, as you very well know … this past weekend was Thanksgiving! And that brought with it another chance to venture down to my adopted home of Fort Myers for an excellent long weekend with family (and another classic Style Guide road trip, of course). I was last in Florida for a Memorial Day weekend visit — and my folks also made their way north this October — but Thanksgiving in Florida is always a special treat, combining the traditions of family and home with beautiful weather (as I’ve found out these past few years). With my parents moved into a new house and the promise of a lovely weekend, I hit the road on Tuesday in prime fall travel style — of course, if you follow me on Instagram, you probably saw how I dressed for Thanksgiving in style. And if not, today’s the prime chance to dive in! Save me a second helping of turkey, will ya?
Holiday 2017

Versatile gear for a road trip to Florida.

My trip began in earnest on Tuesday afternoon, as I jetted out of work early hauling my favorite men’s style essentials, starting with the handsome, durable WP Standard Large Messenger Bag. From trip after trip — down to Nashville and out to Portland — it’s proven a durable, effective way to haul my everyday carry, and that was certainly the case here (including the latest issue of Gear Patrol for some in-flight reading). For a day at work and a quick cab ride to the airport, my Flint and Tinder All-American Jeans were reliable and comfortable, yet work-appropriate — as was my Flint and Tinder Texas-Made Oxford, a well-fitting shirt that perfectly nailed business casual style. The next time you’ve got to get to a flight from the office, I’d also suggest you throw on a pair of classic Astorflex suede chukkas — as I’ve written about before on the blog, they combine comfort, sustainability and effective style in spades. The combination was versatile and casual, perfect for an evening arrival in Florida and a few brews with a delicious home-cooked meal. With that, it was onto the rest of a long and very enjoyable weekend!

Holiday 2017

Laidback gear for a laidback start to a Florida trip.


After a surprisingly quick and relaxing flight, this Thanksgiving weekend was off and running. Any trip to Florida is always an excellent excuse to break out standout casual style – for a relaxing Wednesday around Fort Myers, that meant reaching for a Grayers striped polo and versatile cotton-blend shorts from Reef, plus my trusty-as-ever Jack Erwin Cooper Boat Shoes (always a warm-weather favorite). Reef’s shorts do a more-than-serviceable job when it comes to offering mobility and comfort, perfect for getting around Fort Myers. I complemented the look with classic aviator sunglasses from James Dean Eyewear – is there a better icon to emulate when it comes to ultra-stylish sunglasses? I’d say not, especially when it comes to battling the Florida sun.

I also threw on my reliable Huckberry Explorer’s Cap and the sharp Electric California Carroway Leather Watch, a consistent favorite for travel and everyday style. The next time you find yourself needing to dress in casual style for warm weather, step into versatile shorts, a striped polo and leather boat shoes that are more city-ready than dock-friendly. It’ll pay off! With that combination, I was more than ready to keep my vacation going.

Holiday 2017

Dressed in tailored-yet-casual style from Todd Snyder and Banana Republic.


Although the weather sure is different in Fort Myers than my home state of Michigan when it comes to Thanksgiving, it’s just as enjoyable and fun-filled to celebrate Thanksgiving there – so I had to dress for the occasion accordingly. And the traditions stay the same, from watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade to enjoying plate after plate … after plate of family recipes. I opted for style that was crisp and polished, yet breezy. Enter a tailored Todd Snyder dress shirt – a Christmas gift from my parents last year! – plus a comfortable, mobile pair of Banana Republic’s Rapid Movement Chinos. Believe me, that extra stretch came in handy after a few helpings of Hayhoe family Thanksgiving.

In the footwear department, I stepped into a pair of classic Sebago Legacy Penny Loafers, a Florida-ready option that offered dressy style and a bit of comfort in the heat. To cap off this tailored-yet-laidback ensemble, a stylish leather watch from MVMT Watches proved dressy, sharp and yet appropriate for the occasion. On the eyewear front, the new Esquire Oliver Sunglasses from Liingo Eyewear have been a favorite these past few days – courtesy of the brand, I’ve been testing out a new pair with excellent results! These glasses are simply designed, well-made and just a bit refined – ideal to wear on Thanksgiving, don’t you think? My #menswear look gave me just enough versatility and comfort to enjoy a relaxing day filled with delicious food and great times with family – that’s what it’s all about, I’d say.

A classic Abercrombie & Fitch tee, plus Mack Weldon boardshorts and more essential gear.


I still had quite a bit of time to savor a relaxing vacation in Florida, too. So, on Black Friday, I took not to the mall or the Internet – alright, I definitely did do some shopping – but to the water! Enjoying the Florida sun is something that, well … you simply can’t do in New York City too often, so I relish the chance to hang out by the pool as much as possible. For the occasion, I packed a pair of Mack Weldon Board Shorts, my reliable Huckberry Explorer’s Cap and some pool-ready Reef Rover Low sneakers (not to mention my trusty James Dean Eyewear aviators). Does anything top relaxing by the water with a refreshing brew? Over Thanksgiving weekend, no less? There’s not much better, man.

Saturday brought with it the start of a beautiful Florida weekend – definitely warmer than NYC, to say the least. A highlight of the day? Watching a winning effort from my beloved alma mater, Michigan State University, as they beat Rutgers to close out their college football season. With a family full of Spartans, from my grandfather all the way down to me, it’s a welcome treat to take in a great game – and I did so in style with my Tailgate Clothing team shirt (which I’d also recommend you wear to your next football tailgate).

Holiday 2017

My breezy Bridge & Burn Stringer Dune Shorts helped keep me cool, while my Johnston & Murphy Allister Sneakers were a team-friendly pair of footwear (Go White!). And to suitably cap off my ensemble, I positively had to put on my Jack Mason team watch – they’ve got a plethora of options, likely including your favorite team. What better way to cheer on your alma mater? Yet again, it was another banner Saturday in Florida – yet, the weekend still wasn’t done!

Dressed to travel back to NYC, once again featuring Abercrombie & Fitch and slim DSTLD denim.

Luckily, I had a final day of relaxation in the Florida sun! My take on casual Florida style started with a pair of DSTLD Slim Jeans in Light Wash, which have served me quite well week after week this fall season. I also threw on a casual, easygoing Abercrombie & Fitch Garment-Dye Oxford Shirt, as reliable a stylish travel shirt as it gets.  I complemented the look with a stylish leather watch from MVMT Watches, plus my comfortable and travel-friendly Astorflex Greenflex Chukkas, once again. And for dependable travel style hauling my everyday carry essentials, I had to reach for a stylish weekender bag in addition to my WP Standard Large Messenger Bag .Of note: My pick of choice this time around was my dependable Voyager Waxed Weekender from the revamped Boarding Pass NYC — formerly Owen & Fred! As expected, the entire combination helped me get around with style and durability in mind (but not before some excellent Florida brews and bites).

It was — once again  — a trip that was over too soon, but no matter how many or how few days I spend with my family, it’s always refreshing and energizing to get away from NYC and enjoy a lovely holiday. I already feel like Christmas in Florida will be here sooner than expected. And as it were, I’m actually headed back to Florida this coming weekend for the 97X Next Big Thing music festival! I positively can’t wait to take in some great tunes and see my sister once again. In the meantime, we’ll have you covered when it comes to all things #menswear this week, including a new #OOTD and plenty more.

Thanks for reading, and I hope you enjoyed your Thanksgiving!

-Beau

by Beau H.

Sleep Well Beast: A Northeast Weekend Seeing The National

Enjoying a relaxing brew at Brooklyn’s Sycamore and preparing to see The National in New York last Friday. Dressed in a classic Mott and Bow Oxford, a sharp Timex watch and my Levi’s 505C denim for rock-ready style!

Folks, I’d say the headline says it all when it comes to my latest Style Guide trip. This past weekend — a long weekend that’s still going, in fact — I hit the road to do one of my favorite things: Take in not one, but TWO stellar shows by my absolute favorite  banded, lauded American indie rockers The National. A favorite of mine from my days back attending Michigan State University, this sharply dressed band just released “Sleep Well Beast,” one of the year’s best albums, back in September. And the six albums prior to that release? All packed with extraordinary gems. They’re in the midst of a tour that started overseas and is swinging through the States as we speak, so it was essential that I catch two Northeast shows. It was even more essential that I dress in my favorite #menswear! If you want a dash of travel style tips, a few Boston travel tips and of course, some great music, come along. Plug in, turn up the band’s latest album, and let’s dress for a rock concert in style … refined style, that is.

Style that’s refined enough for the office, ready for travel and still able to work at a concert by a band known for tailored style!

If there’s one thing I’ve learned in my years of following The National, it’s that this is a band that — in addition to writing my favorite tracks — can wear the heck out of a suit (especially lead singer Matt Berninger). His years spent working at an ad agency likely carried over to his classic on-stage style, so to go from my office to a Boston-bound train to a show at the handsomely appointed Wang Theatre, I had to dress the part. That started on my top half with the comfortable-yet-sharp Old Navy Garment-Dyed Built-in Flex Canvas Blazer in a fitting charcoal color. With casual patch pockets, it helped me haul around my everyday carry essentials, as did my Whipping Post Large Leather Messenger Bag.


I completed the day-to-night combo with sharp navy Oxford from Mott and Bow, a brand that’s as wearable at a concert as at the office. For style that was at once crisp and yet rock concert-friendly on my bottom half, my dark blue Flint and Tinder All-American Jeans in the brand’s Slim Tapered fit offered up versatility and mobility.  And as has become custom when heading to a rock concert, I had to throw on durable, stylish leather boots — specifically, my Viberg Service Boots, which proved as hard-wearing and rugged as ever.

Contemplating an emotional, meaningful and hard-rocking show from The National in Boston. Dressed in refined rock style with an Old Navy blazer and a Mott and Bow Oxford!

With stylish gear in tow and my trek up to Boston complete, pre-show refreshments were crucial. If ever you find yourself near Boston’s South End and want a gourmet meal paired with an excellent local craft brew, be sure to hit up the Tip Tap Room. With more than 40 taps, this upscale pub delivers when it comes to rich IPAs and flavorful farmhouse ales in equal measure. It was, in short, a great place to kick off an excellent evening with  my favorite band. The Wang Theatre is a unique venue, with the beauty of a space that’s a national historic landmark and the capacity (3,500) to host a major rock show.

It was certainly a show I’d been looking forward to for a long time. I’d heard the band debut some new tracks during a spirited performance at Panorama 2016, and I’d also had the pleasure of hearing them debut their new album in full (twice!) during an upstate trip earlier this summer, but this tour presents a new, well, beast. With a discography spanning seven albums and plenty of fan favorites, The National are a truly masterful band that keeps you guessing — in the best way possible. From the spare, beautiful opening track “Nobody Else Will Be There” to the hard-charging “Day I Die,” material off “Sleep Well Beast” was met with as much joy as deep cuts like “Son” (one of the first tracks they ever wrote), plus hard-charging numbers like “Don’t Swallow the Cap” and fan favorites like “Mr. November.”

The stellar set list was filled out by 10 — yes, 10 — incredible tracks off “Sleep Well Beast,” plus amazing renditions of “Terrible Love,”Fake Empire” and classic mid-aughts numbers “Secret Meeting” and “Apartment Story.” It’s tough to put into words how much of an impact this band has had on me, from Michigan all the way to Brooklyn, but their emotional, meaningful and nuanced rock music is a consistent force in my daily life. Their consistency and work ethic are also admirable — you don’t go from playing shows across the Midwest to five people to writing an exceptional album like “Sleep Well Beast” overnight. And with that being said, it was very fitting that the next stop on a country-spanning tour took them to their original home of New York and the elegant Forest Hills Stadium in Queens! And so, I hopped on a southbound train to head back to the Big Apple — dressed in style, of course.

Dressed in style for day two of a Northeast tour by The National. Utility Blazer by Abercrombie & Fitch. Oxford by Mott and Bow.

Make no mistake, The National still brought plenty of unexpected surprises to the stage on Friday night — that’s the beauty of a band with a bevy of standout tracks (including a surprise cover of Queens rock heroes The Ramones!). And for travel, a rock concert and a day of exploration in Brooklyn — including a stop at neighborhood watering hole Sycamore — I knew had to dress with function and comfort and top of mind.  With casual patch pockets, a comfortable unstructured build and  a sharp navy color, my Abercrombie & Fitch Utility Blazer was a versatile top layer over another classic Oxford shirt from Mott and Bow. To finish off my ensemble with rugged and rock-ready style, my  Viberg Service Boots again came in handy — and my Levi’s 505C denim, with roots in rock heritage, were also a perfect concert style move.  The next time you need to dress for travel and a rock concert, pick some rock n’roll denim,  stylish leather boots, and a classic utility blazer to take you from point A to point B.  Oh, and if you get the chance to see The National on this upcoming tour, I’d strongly urge you to take it. On the best nights, you might be fortunate enough to hear lovely deep cut “About Today,” or a rousing acoustic rendition of the soaring “Vanderlyle Crybaby Geeks,” which they closed the show with in Queens. A show beyond words!

The next time you head to a tailgate of your own, grab durable sneakers, a stylish team sweater and slim denim in a casual wash.

With two excellent, life-affirming and joyous rock shows in the rearview mirror, the weekend wasn’t over yet. In fact, it was just getting started, as my beloved Michigan State Spartans took on the hated Michigan Wolverines  in a college football duel for the ages (sorry, U-M fans). It’s a rivalry with roots going back long before my time at Michigan State — from 2001’s “Clockgate” scandal in East Lansing to 2015’s incredible, last-second Spartan victory in Ann Arbor, it’s given me my fair share of fond (and at times agonizing) memories over the years. It was with similar excitement and hope that I dressed to cheer on the Spartans to a 14-10 win! Even when heading to a tailgate of your own, there are definitely ways you can still look great. I layered up with a retro-inspired, casual Michigan State Hillflint Sweater, crafted in breathable cotton and featuring a neat design. It teamed nicely with a pair of DSTLD Slim Light Wash Jeans and my fall-ready Danner x New Balance miUSA 585 Sneakers, made with rich leather accents and featuring a comfortable, hiking boot-inspired fit. And to stay on time while heading to watch the game with fellow Spartan fans, my Electric California Carroway Leather Watch provided function and casual, crisp style. It’s not every weekend that you get to see your favorite team play a competitive rivalry game after seeing your favorite band play twice, but I was glad to have that opportunity this weekend.

Casual, essential menswear for exploring Brooklyn with my Wildsam Field Guide — led by my Original Penguin Brushed Cotton 5-Pocket Pants and a classic Huckberry Explorer’s Cap, plus my durable Timex Waterbury Watch featuring Red Wing leather.

If you know me, you know I like to pack as much as possible into my weekends — it was with the spirit of adventure in mind that I took on Sunday with help from some goods in the Bespoke Post Scout Box (like the cool Wildsam Field Guide as seen above).  For a bit of transitional fall style, I threw on a reliably durable and well-fitting Abercombie & Fitch Garment-Dye Oxford Shirt and my tailored Original Penguin Brushed Cotton 5-Pocket Pants. If ever you’re looking for a change from your favorite pair of dark denim, crisply cut brushed cotton pants provide visual interest and fabric that’s ready for fall weather. With other casual fall style essentials in tow in my Whipping Post Large Leather Messenger Bag, I finished off my look with a vintage-inspired Huckberry Explorer’s Cap and stylish leather sneakers from Frank and Oak. On the accessories front, my durable and rugged Timex Waterbury Watch in Red Wing Leather was more than up to the task of a casual Sunday. One of my destinations? The cool Bushwick outpost Montana’s Trail House. With a rugged & aesthetically pleasing design and plenty of gourmet burgers to go around, it was a neat place to relax on a long weekend.  Another destination? The seriously cool DIY venue Silent Barn for a Sunday evening of refreshments and live music.

As with other weekends spent exploring Brooklyn and traveling to see live music — from Portland to Nashville and Boston — I’m reflecting today on how grateful I am to be able to pursue my passion for great tunes, great menswear and yes, the occasional craft brew or two. And to be able to see my favorite band twice in two days? That’s a banner weekend. Being able to travel in style is something that takes work from situation to situation and city to city, as I’ve learned, so I hope you find these travel style tips helpful. If ever you’re headed out on the road and want to travel in style, let’s connect on Twitter or Instagram. For now, I’ve got to revisit a terrific set by The National. Check back tomorrow for a new #OOTD post — we’ll see you then!

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Bespoke Post Wander Box

From a helpful guide book to a nifty iPhone camera lens, this is the gear you need to travel with this fall. Image courtesy of Bespoke Post.

We’re taking a slight departure from our usual #menswear focus on today’s Style Pick of the Week — just a slight (if literal) departure. Because, let’s be real — who among us doesn’t love the thrill of adventure and the excitement of exploring somewhere new? For travel lovers and explorers alike the Bespoke Post Wander Box is a prime choice as this week’s Style Pick– like other favorites on the blog, it’s an all-in-one offering in terms of versatility and dependability. And if you’re looking for a bit of fall travel style, I’d urge you to pick up the Wander Box. Without a doubt, the Wander Box from Bespoke Post has everything you need to explore a new locale — with a few handy extras thrown in. The utility of the Wander Box — available for just $45 when you sign up for Bespoke Post –– starts with the essential Wildsam Field Guide.


These mini-encyclopedias fit easily in a bag or a coat packet and are jam-packed with all kinds of helpful info on a wide range of cities. The guides cover everywhere from San Francisco to Brooklyn to Nashville and Austin –it’s your call. And when I say jam-packed, I mean jam-packed. From insights on gourmet eats and craft beverages to a full set of personal essays and reflections on specific cities, each Field Guide is entirely customized by city — and again, they’re packed full of essential info. Heck, I used my Wildsam Field Guide on a fall trip to Nashville and absolutely loved the cool spots it turned up, from coffee to menswear. So, that’s one major benefit of the Bespoke Post Wander Box  — and the rest of the goods? They’re just as stellar.

Bespoke Post Wander Box

Using my Wildsam Field Guide to get around Nashville in style — this could be you! Or not. But it could be!

It’s the little details in every Bespoke Post box that make the difference, and the Wander Box gets those right, too. Namely, you get your pick of ebony or bamboo headphones from LSTN Sound Co. — crystal-clear sound quality and understated style, to boot. What’s more,  these headphones feature no-rub functionality (no twisted cords here), and they also come with an in-line microphone to take calls. Not bad, ehh? And the Wander Box doesn’t stop there — no sir. It’s complete with a Universal Smartphone Fisheye Lens, a  wide-angle smartphone camera attachment that should up your photo quality significantly. That’s a heck of a deal for just $45 — can’t believe it? Neither could I when saw the price tag. So, to recap the Wander Box — you get a brand-new camera attachment to capture the perfect Instagram shot, plus an amazing field guide to help you explore cool cities like Nashville … plus an excellent set of stylish headphones. That’s all too good to be true, yes? Well, Bespoke Post makes it a reality. Just pick your city, pick up the Wander Box  and get planning.

Will you be picking up the Wander Box  from Bespoke Post before you hit the road this season?  Let me know on Twitter! 

Thanks for reading!

-Beau

by Beau H.

Keep Portland Weird! A West Coast Weekend Adventure

Hanging out at TwentySix Cafe in versatile, rugged gear for exploring Portland. My Bridge & Burn Northfork Woodland Jacket, the Taylor Stitch Sashiko Shirt, All-American Washed Jeans from Flint and Tinder and my Grizzly Wheat President Boots from Thursday Boots worked out tremendously!

Before we kick things off in today’s latest travel style feature on The Style Guide, know that we’re not about to dive into a “Portlandia” parody (as outstanding as that show happens to be). No sir, this past weekend gave me the chance to head West — although I’d spent a weekend exploring Los Angeles and even made a trip out to Las Vegas for work last year, I’d never been to the City of Roses. I’ve been hearing great things about its balance of excellent #menswear, standout craft beer, a great culinary scene and of course, stellar live music — in my book, that’s more than enough reason to get out and adventure.


And the my long weekend brought with it the added value of an amazing concert — always a bonus! Yes indeed, seeing excellent synth pop band Future Islands play the renowned Crystal Ballroom was a heck of a treat on Friday night. Although it was quite the long trek to get out there following a long work week in New York, I did my best to pack in style (as you might have seen via my Instagram page). Come along for the journey!

Slim, faded denim, a durable Saddleback duffel bag, trusty James Dean Eyewear sunglasses … all that you need for a weekend out West.

Traveling in style and comfort can be a bit of a challenge — particularly on a long flight. That’s why I reached for my durable, pleasingly faded All-American Washed Jeans from Flint and Tinder. Made from premium cotton denim and finished with just a hint of stretch, my All-American Washed Jeans were a fine pair of denim to go from the airport to go to the hip, quiet and cozy TwentySix Cafe near my Irvington accommodations. And my uniquely detailed Taylor Stitch Sashiko Shirt worked just as well on the plane as it did trekking around Portland, particularly when teamed with the richly crafted Grizzly Wheat President Boot from Thursday Boots. To stay on time through it all, I reached for a brand-new, slim and refined Timex watch — the versatile leather strap proved easily wearable all day long. To shield my eyes from the sun in style, a new pair of James Dean Eyewear JDS100 Sunglasses looked great and proved up to the task. The next time your trip calls for exploring a new city on foot, reach for mobile denim, comfortable-yet-tough boots, a sharp watch and stylish, go-anywhere shirting. 

All the right details for exploring Portland, including a new Timex watch and my rugged Thursday Boots Grizzly Wheat President Boots.

And exploration was certainly the name of the game on Friday leading up to that night’s Future Islands show. Thankfully, my durable, rugged and extremely well-crafted Saddleback Rounded Leather Duffel Bag held up to the challenge of lugging around my favorite travel style essentials as I hopped from grabbing a crucial cold brew to the excellent Bunk Bar Wonder, one of a series of PDX locations offering gourmet sandwiches, excellent craft cocktails and a very solid beer selection. A hint — get the Molě Tator Tots, packed with delicious flavor. It was a great afternoon lead-in to a stop at the richly appointed Tanner Goods Flagship Store and the accompanying craft cocktail/beer bar & patio, The Wayback. This American-made brand has long been a favorite of mine for handsome leather goods, durable outerwear, stylish home decor and terrific attention to detail — it was a treat to finally stop by! So with coffee, menswear and craft beer on lock, that led to the night’s highlight: Future Islands bringing down a packed Crystal Ballroom with a stellar show! It helped that I dressed in comfort and style; I can simply never resist the chance to wear rugged leather boots to a concert, either.

The Baltimore-based synth pop band’s rise to fame has been a long one — they’ve played more than 1,000 shows across the country since 2006, often booking them on their own. And if you’re not familiar, I’d say you’ll recognize them from their 2014 appearance on Letterman playing hit single “Seasons (Waiting on You).” Believe me, frontman Sam Herring is every bit as energetic, passionate and enjoyable in person — I knew that from seeing the band play Panorama 2017 here in NYC! And their return to Portland was an anticipated one, coming as it did off the release of one of this year’s better albums, the emotionally packed “The Far Field.”

With an extensive discography spanning five albums and plenty of crowd favorites, a Future Islands show is full of highs and lows, joy and passion — it’s a sight to behold, from hits like 2017’s “Ran” and 2014’s “A Dream of You and Me” to fan favorites like “Seasons,” of course! And Crystal Ballroom, what with a historic interior and a tremendous craft beer selection — including choice selections brewed in Portland — is simply a quirky, cool, standout venue for a live show. Did it top my trip to Nashville to see Young the Giant and Cold War Kids? It’s tough to say – but Future Islands blew me away yet again. Even dealing with a bit of jet lag, it was still a heck of a way to cap off a big Portland day.

Durable Allen Edmonds boots, a finely crafted Abercrombie cotton shirt and a durable Timex x Red Wing watch — perfect Portland essentials.

So, with Friday night in the books, my Saturday kicked off in style — from the ground up, as it were. For getting around Portland with durability, rugged looks and sharp versatility in mind, my brand-new Allen Edmonds Caen Cap Toe Boots worked extremely well. Of course, I started my day right on time with my Timex x Red Wing Waterbury Watch, but stellar boots were just as critical. Coming from a brand mainly known for stylish men’s dress shoes, these rugged cap toe boots are a welcome addition to the Allen Edmonds line — and what’s more, they worked nicely in tandem with the crisp, easily wearable Flint and Tinder 365 Pants. Cut like a five-pocket pant and made from a blend of cotton and lyrca, my 365 Pants helped me grab a quick coffee at essential Portland stop Blue Star Donuts before kicking off afternoon shopping at Style Guide favorites Bridge & Burn. On the shirting front, I reached for a nice fall go-between — a new Abercrombie & Fitch Herringbone Shirt, courtesy of the brand. I can’t recommend the rugged versatility of Abercrombie & Fitch enough, and this soft-washed cotton shirt was able to withstand a full day out and about in Portland.

I packed a lot into an already busy day, including a stop at the excellent Kiriko Made shop — renowned for indigo textiles, excellent shirting and stunning attention to detail on items as small as pocket squares, Kiriko should certainly be on your shopping list if you get out to Portland.  And just as with my trip to Nashville, I had to hit up a renowned craft beer spot or two. The afternoon started with the Deschutes Brewery Portland location — a craft beer lover’s dream.  Lauded for rich, innovative and hard-to-find beers (at least back in NYC), I can’t recommend the nearly legendary Black Butte Porter or the Inversion IPA enough. It was a nice lead-in to another busy evening — centered, of course, around a trip to bustling sports bar The Independent to catch my beloved Michigan State Spartans take on the Notre Dame Fighting Irish! And for a postgame brew, I headed to 10Barrel Brewing, another Oregon favorite that’s always a treat to sip.

Men's travel style

Heading back home in comfortable Standard Deviation denim, a classic Bridge and Burn tee and my trusty Huckberry Explorer’s Cap.

To kick off my last and final day in style — and with a jolt – I stopped by the Ace Hotel Portland, a hip boutique hotel that’s also a favorite spot in NYC for post-work drinks and small bites. Oh, and the coffee from Stumptown Coffee Roasters? It’s excellent, too. I also made my final day count in terms of #menswear, from my Astorflex Greenflex in Dark Khaki chukka boots to my slim, stylish and well-fitting Standard Deviation denim. Standard Deviation does it right when it comes to stylish denim — the brand’s Two-Part Solution allows you to try out two pairs for 15 days to nail down your perfect fit; when the time comes, you pay the discounted price of $78 per pair. Not bad, ehh? And certainly stylish for exploring Portland and heading to Ecliptic Brewing for a nice brew or two before a long flight back home.

I also dressed in laidback style with a new Bridge & Burn Basic Tee, a slim-fitting number made with a breezy cotton blend. The Heather Wine color  of the Basic Tee also played nicely off my Astorflex Greenflex in Dark Khaki chukka boots. Luckily, my essential Timex x Todd Snyder Military Watch ensured I stayed on time throughout the day.  For navigating a new city, reach for classic suede chukka boots and perhaps some favorite tunes, as I did when I plugged into stylish headphones from the Bespoke Post Vibes Box. With a busy, enjoyable and exciting weekend behind me, it was time all too soon to head hone. I appreciated Portland for its quiet atmosphere, its mix of amazing coffee, great menswear and live music, and the attention to detail in everything from food to craft beer. Is Portland “weird,” per se? It’s different than New York and Brooklyn, and that’s a great thing!

If you’ve got questions on the best things to do in Portland, drop me a note on Twitter. Follow along on Instagram for more men’s travel style tips, and check back tomorrow for a new #OOTD post.

Thanks for reading!

-Beau