Tag / weekly style pick

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Jack + Mulligan Ali Duffel

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. For more Wish List items from Beau, head here, and to see other Style Picks, head here.

Ali Duffel 2

If you’ve been paying any attention to your television or the Internet across the past week, you’ll know the Rio Olympics are well underway. They’ve given us a bunch of gold medals for the U.S., and a seriously large amount of Michael Phelps face memes (that’s the last you’ll read of it, sorry). Even yours truly at The Style Guide published a post on what to wear to watch the Olympics. Well, there’s still plenty more where that came from — and the best part about this week’s Style Pick? You can use it all year-round. Yes indeed, the Jack + Mulligan Ali Duffel is your answer to quite a few different questions. Namely, where can I find a gym bag that actually looks good? Maybe one that’s not too bulky, either? Truly, the stylish gym bag is an underrated style upgrade you should definitely consider making, and the fact that this option’s got patriotic roots only helps during this time of year (the $115 price tag isn’t too bad, either). The bag is named for the great boxer and Olympic gold medalist himself (that would be Muhammad Ali, folks), and it’s part of Jack + Mulligan’s “Pursuit of Greatness” capsule collection. The Ali Duffel is available in four colorways, but allow me to put forth a little Saturday menswear argument — the Ivory/Sport Blue combination is the only one you need if you find yourself Stateside. Why’s that? Keep on reading.

Available in three additional colorways, the Ivy/Sport Blue might be your best bet. Photo courtesy of Jack + Mulligan.

Available in three additional colorways, the Ivy/Sport Blue might be your best bet. Photo courtesy of Jack + Mulligan.

The water-repellent canvas body is stylishly offset by what’s truly a sporty blue colorblock on the bottom panel, plus fittingly American red-striped handles made from sturdy cotton.  Right down to the blue water-resistant nylon lining, the whole combination is old-school yet crisp. It’s the kind of bag that might stylishly complement something like a rugged-refined Todd Snyder graphic T-shirt as part of a casual off-duty look. And when you do take it to hit the gym, it’s going to stand out subtly and stylishly — no garish athletic logos or overly padded shoulder strap here. The entire combination is surprisingly sharp, and the patriotic look and feel of the moment means there’s no better time to buy it. If you’re heading to an Olympics viewing party, it’s a neat way to lug a few everyday carry essentials (plus a few brews) around — and it can serve the same function the rest o’ the year, as well. If you’re feeling particularly patriotic, you could even grab a Jack + Mulligan U.S.A. Baseball Cap to really complete the look. Finish it off with the comfortable, athletic-inspired Ace Short from Mack Weldon and you’ve got an entire ensemble that’s patriotic, fresh and ready for some relaxation (and rabid cheering, of course).

Will you be buying the Jack + Mulligan Ali Duffel?

Buck Mason - Timeless Design. Made in America.

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Sock Genius No-Show Socks

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. For more Wish List items from Beau, head here, and to see other Style Picks, head here.

A whole post on socks? Sure thing, especially when they're comfortable and well-fitting ones from the Sock Genius line at Ties.com.

A whole post on socks? Sure thing, especially when they’re comfortable and well-fitting ones from the Sock Genius line at Ties.com.

Before we dive into this week’s post, know that the title is no mistake — we’re really talking no-show socks here today. And there’s plenty of good reason for that. It’s the end of July — so it’s plenty hot, and that heat isn’t going anywhere any time soon. If you snagged a pair or two (or heck, three) of no-show socks near the start of summer, you’ve probably been wearing them a lot. After all, they’re an essential to pair up with classic leather sneakers  or even suede Derby shoes beneath your favorite pair of rolled chinos. And if they’ve seen a lot of wear, maybe they could use a refresh. And maybe you want to check out a new, inexpensive and high-performing brand — that’s where the Sock Genius line of socks through Ties.com slides into the equation (and onto your feet). The brand’s no-show socks come in a range of patterns and colors, although a personal favorite is the Villa Park Stripe No-show Sock as seen above. In fact, I happen to be rocking this weekend on a trip back to Michigan to complement some classic SeaVees sneakers (more on that on Monday, though). The point is, once you give Sock Genius no-show socks a try, you might want to pick up plenty more pairs. And given that the quality and pricing is quite agreeable, it’s worth it — I was definitely pleased when I wore one of the brand’s ties and a sharp pocket square to a recent Michigan wedding, and I’ve found their no-show socks to be similarly pleasing to wear.

One of the many color and pattern combinations available through Ties.com and its Sock Genius line.

The La Habra no-show sock — one of the many color and pattern combinations available through Ties.com and its Sock Genius line.

Buck Mason - Timeless Design. Made in America.

Just like a comfortable and well-fitting pair of boxer briefs or a high-performing undershirt, the basics that are closest to your skin should stand up to the heat of the summer — that’s particularly true when being on your feet during the hot summer months. And whether you’re heading to Sunday brunch or bringing along a cooler to a backyard barbeque, you need no-show socks that can handle a lot. Plus, it doesn’t hurt that the variety of Sock Genius options (nearly 20)  combine nice patterns and colors that don’t look bad at all when it’s time to slip off your… slip-on sneakers, ehh?. If a pop of color (like the La Habra seen above) is too much though, they’re also offering up a classic four-pack of solid no-show socks for $30 — that’s quite the deal when one considers you’re getting a pair of no-show socks for almost every day of the work week. Again, style upgrades are in the details, and when you can snag no-show socks that perform admirably and look great, I say jump right on it. And hey, you can pick up a classic tie or pocket square while perusing the Ties.com site, too. See how to style no-show socks with other essentials on the daily at my Instagram, or ask away on any and all things #menswear over at The Style Guide.

Do you own any Sock Genius socks? Would you add the brand to your rotation, or is your sock drawer full?

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Mack Weldon Vesper Polo

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. For more Wish List items from Beau, head here, and to see other Style Picks, head here.

Easygoing, effortless and still sharp -- that's the Mack Weldon Vesper Polo for you. Photo courtesy of Mack Weldon.

Easygoing, effortless and still sharp — that’s the Mack Weldon Vesper Polo for you. Photo courtesy of Mack Weldon.

So, you sidle up to the bar on a Saturday night — maybe on a first date. What are you wearing? A polo inspired by the crisp, clean, effortlessly cool style of 007, that’s what. My friends, we’re talking today about the Mack Weldon Vesper Polo, a heck of a polo that puts together the favorite style principles of 007 in one shirt. It doesn’t hurt that it’s named for the original (and perhaps best-known) drink downed by everyone’s favorite secret agent. The Vesper Polo nails everything you should look for in a stylish polo for summer — it’s got a clean, modern fit, for starters. And the lightweight micro-mesh knit fabric is exactly what you need to keep you cool and dry in the heat of July (we’ll have an #OOTD styling this exact polo next week, in fact). After checking one out myself during a hot and busy #NYFWM, I’ve got to vouch for that. Plus, this polo is everything great style should be — it’s understated, it’s refined, it’s easily wearable, and the price ain’t half-bad either ($68, for the unitiated). It’s part of Mack Weldon’s effort to expand on basics that work for every guy’s wardrobe — if you’ve shopped the brand or participated in our most recent reader giveaway with these guys, you know that all too well. Add this polo to your other favorites of theirs — like an easily wearable Pima Crew Tee — and you’ll be on your way to building a sharp wardrobe any day of the week.

While the Kentucky Blue option looks great, Bond might go for the Total Eclipse Blue polo. Photo courtesy of Mack Weldon.

While the Kentucky Blue option looks great, Bond might go for the Total Eclipse Blue polo. Photo courtesy of Mack Weldon.

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Yet, the great thing about the Vesper Polo is that it’s a great place to start no matter your style level. Seriously, every guy can use reminders about things like proper fit, and this polo makes it easy. It’s wearable with slim shorts or tan chinos, and it doesn’t look out of place when worn in an even more laidback fashion — like atop your favorite swim trunks as you head to the beach or pool. And the self-collar doesn’t flop around like other polo collars — it’ll stay upright through the day (even moreso if you use collar stays), so you can rock it beneath a slim-fit khaki blazer to the office. The trickiest part about the whole endeavor might be picking a favorite color — the Kentucky Blue option seen here is reliable and crisp, yet that Total Eclipse Blue (a dark navy, really) is the same color favored by Bond in Casino Royale (although that option is a bit pricier). So you certainly can’t go wrong with a well-priced, well-performing, effortlessly stylish polo ready for the rest of summer (and even able to be rocked into early fall when layered under a shawl cardigan, for example. The toughest part is going to be putting it away when the weather turns cold — yet if you live in a warm climate, you’ll have the gift that keeps on giving year-round. Keep it handy for that next date in the meantime, yeah?

Have you picked up the Mack Weldon Vesper Polo yet? What’s your favorite style combination when it comes to polos?

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Timex x Todd Snyder Mod Watch

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. For more Wish List items from Beau, head here, and to see other Style Picks, head here.

A military NATO strap and a vintage-inspired design help this timepiece stand out in the best possible way. Photo courtesy of Timex.

A military NATO strap and a vintage-inspired design help this timepiece stand out in the best possible way. Photo courtesy of Timex.

Here at The Style Guide, your humble author is a big fan of rugged, tried-and-true classics — that goes for everything from chambray shirts to rugged leather chukka boots. But every now and then, slightly unexpected-yet-modern pieces are welcomed into the fold. That’s certainly the case with the Timex x Todd Snyder Mod Watch, a one-of-a-kind timepiece available exclusively through the lauded American designer’s Web site. In fact, it’s proven such a hit that it’s only available for backorder as of the time of this post. Yet, you should still seriously consider putting your name on that list (and then waiting anxiously until September, of course). Why is it so essential to get in the game now for us #menswear fans? Well for one, the timepiece itself is a perfect stylish casual watch that updates a vintage Timex design for the modern age. For another, it signals the start of an ongoing partnership between a classic watch brand and one of America’s best menswear designers — the fact that it was shown on the runways at Snyder’s recent New York Fashion Week: Men’s show is icing on the cake. And perhaps most importantly — it means you have a great excuse to pick up a new watch that’s eye-catching, crisp, versatile and available for under $140. Todd Snyder already stocks the elusive and much-loved Timex x Red Wing watch collaboration, featuring rugged watches that utilize tough Red Wing leather in the straps themselves. The Timex x Todd Snyder Mod Watch is a little more toned-down and refined, yet still very wearable — it’s an example of hitting it right down the middle when it comes to design balance.

A closer look at the red-and-black mod bullseye design, inspired by the Timex archives. Photo courtesy of the brand.

A closer look at the red-and-black mod bullseye design, inspired by the Timex archives. Photo courtesy of the brand.

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Snyder’s savvy eye, combined with the knowledge of the Timex design team, leaves us with a striking watch that’s like none on the market right now. The red-and-black dial combo is unique enough in and of itself, but when paired with the military NATO strap, you’ve got a combination that’s made for rocking with a classic blue Oxford and slim sand chinos at the office, and a slim pocket T-shirt and navy chino shorts on the weekend. The 40mm case diameter hits the sweet spot in terms of size — it’s not too small, and it’s not overly large. That’s the benefit of a watch that manages to be clean and classic yet striking at the same time — it goes with anything. Truly, a sufficiently stylish NATO strap timepiece can even work with a  suit — just steal a style tip from James Bond in Spectre. Of course, the dial designs of each of those watches are different, but the idea remains the same. There are very few casual watches that can transition from being worn with something as casual as slim blue denim and a short-sleeve henley to being worn with a blazer, and that pool is narrowed even further when you look for something under $140.  So, the design is one-of-a-kind, the styling potential is one-of-a-kind and the price is …. well, one-of-a-kind. In fact, you’re really getting multiple watches for the price of one — the easy-to-change NATO strap can be easily switched out with everything from a Horween leather watch strap  to a floral NATO watch strap (truly). If that’s not enough to convince you, just know that this watch won’t stick around for long once it’s re-stocked — so pre-ordering it could be the smartest move you make this weekend.

What’s your take on the design of the Timex x Todd Snyder Mod Watch? How would you rock this timepiece?

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Todd Snyder Pocket T-Shirt

 

Not just any old T-shirt, thanks to the vintage wash and subtle styling details.

Not just any old T-shirt, thanks to the vintage wash and subtle styling details.

If you follow The Style Guide or peruse occasional photos from this author on Instagram, you’ll know I love me a great T-shirt. When you talk about a T-shirt that incorporates texture and subtle styling details, I’m sold (take this Stock Mfg. Co. Pocket Tee, for example). Sure, a tee’s not as fancy or nearly as crisp as a classic blue Oxford or a slim chambray shirt, but it’s a particularly useful summer style essential — and in the right cut and fabric, it’s a surefire style upgrade compared to athletic or logo-ridden tees you might be used to rocking. And on that note, I’m pleased to give you Exhibit A — this ridiculously stylish Todd Snyder Pocket T-shirt. It’s vintage-washed and weather-dyed for a broken-in, authentic look, and it features the sort of premium styling details we’ve come to expect from Mr. Snyder. The lauded American menswear designer is a favorite of this site (and a heck of a lot of other publications) for his approach to both continental, classic tailoring and rugged sportswear inspired by both vintage & Americana themes. It’s quite the combination, and it’s done in a way that’s wearable and relatable for the everyday guy. The Todd Snyder Pocket T-shirt is nearly as premium and well-made as a tee can get, and that means it can be rocked plenty of ways this summer.

Todd Snyder pocket T-shirt

Just one styling option for this Todd Snyder pocket T-shirt — it’ll go just as well with sweatshorts as a slim suit.

It’s done up with just the right amount of style details, including subtle double-stitching on the sleeves, pocket and collar. The button at that front chest pocket is a nice visual change of pace, too. Those small touches make it the type of tee you can wear very confidently atop your favorite pair of dark blue denim, and they also make it very suitable to rock with slim olive chinos and some classic white SeaVees sneakers, for example. The slim fit and premium construction make it Exhibit A for another reason, too. Thinking about trying the oft-tricky styling move of pairing a T-shirt with a suit? A tee with some variation in texture plus a slim cut is going to be the way to. Heck, it might not look all that bad with one of the Todd Snyder White Label suits that seem to be gaining in popularity, either. In more casual situations, it’s going to look just as right. Rock it with slim chino shorts and stylish leather loafers for a solid high-low style combo on the weekends, then pair this slim pocket T-shirt up with an unconstructed chambray blazer during the work week. Beneath a sportier crewneck sweater, it’ll also fare well in the fall and winter. The price is assuredly a lot for “just a T-shirt,” but you’re getting so much more styling potential and quality than that. Just tell them to put one on hold for me, ehh?

Are you a fan of this Todd Snyder tee? In what ways would you style it? Chime in on Twitter or via Facebook!
New customer offer! Get your first shirt or shorts for only $20 at Frank + Oak! (Valid until June 21 on select styles and while supplies last)

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by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Buck Mason Sand Chinos

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. For more Wish List items from Beau, head here, and to see other Style Picks, head here.

The perfect pair of four-season chinos -- just maybe?

The perfect pair of four-season chinos — just maybe?

 

Even though summer is well and truly here (being past Memorial Day and all), it seems like there’s still an adjustment period in terms of what works and what doesn’t in terms of all-season wear. On a personal level, that means it still feels weird to ditch even light wash denim in favor of shorts, for example. That’s why it’s a positive (and useful) thing to be able to incorporate simple seasonal style essentials into your #OOTD no matter the weather. And in this instance, a great pair of cotton chinos definitely qualifies as a four-season #menswear staple. So if you recognize the chinos at the top of this page, you’re in good company. Buck Mason has popped up from time to time on The Style Guide before (including the brand’s classic blue Oxford),  and they’re back again today for very good reason. Finding investment pieces that work in multiple outfits is a tough thing if you don’t know where to look (or even if you do), and the brand’s Sand Chinos are just the ticket to solving those issues — and although they come in shades ranging from Olive to Iron, the Sand color is the way to go this week. Crafted from a 10oz. cotton twill in a color that’s a versatile take on khaki, they feature a tailored fit, a mid rise and the sort of look that works with everything from a slub pocket tee to a slim polo and classic navy sneakers. Really, that’s just the start.

Easily wearable with classic sneakers and a white shirt.

Easily wearable with classic sneakers and a white shirt.

They’re American-made, so that’s another thing going for ’em. And although the price is higher than, say, the Taylor Stitch Standard Issue Chino, it’s just as worth it.  Particularly in the summer, they’ll work just as well as your favorite pair of classic dark denim. Pair these with a slim white henley and brown leather sneakers for crisp weekend style, or toss these on with a cheeky graphic tee and chukka boots for a night out. And during the work week, they’re an especially solid style move — with a slim chambray shirt and brown suede wingtips, they’ll set you apart from other folks at the office — in a good way.  And even for an outdoor wedding, they’ll do the trick. Sharp leather loafers and a white chambray shirt are the ideal complements for such a style scenario, and they’ll do you well in cold weather with a  shawl cardigan and thermal henley. So that’s 12-month style for one price up front — not a bad deal, right? Let me know what you think over on Twitter, and thanks for reading!

Have you tried out Buck Mason chinos? How would you style this pair?

 

 

 

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: SeaVees Legend White Sneaker

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. For more Wish List items from Beau, head here, and to see other Style Picks, head here.

A style that's stood the test of time -- and can certainly stand up to your summer wardrobe needs.

A style that’s stood the test of time — and can certainly stand up to your summer wardrobe needs.

The Style Pick of the Week series is back in full force, and we’re at it just in time for Memorial Day weekend. It’s the official start of summer, and it’s time (for the most part) to transition away from spring jackets and sweaters to classic warm-weather gear. And if you don’t have your footwear sorted in that regard, it’s high time for you to get on it. Chief among your (hopefully not-too frantic) purchases should be a true style essential — the classic white sneaker. Don’t know where to turn, or how to style it? Well, we’ll start by answering the first of those questions — make things simple by picking up an easygoing, crisp, stylish classic. The Seavees Legend Sneaker ticks all of those boxes, living up to its billing and then some. It’s been on the style scene for more than five decades, and it continues to get better and better every year. The silhouette’s stayed the same, yet it’s more current than ever. Not possible, right? Wrong. For just under $80, you’re getting a sharp poplin sneaker that’s lightweight yet durable, and fairly cost-effective, too. It’s also in high demand — you very well might have to wait until after June 6th to get your hands on a pair (maybe snag something off this list in the meantime). Having checked out a pair myself via the brand, they’re fit to claim the title of your new favorite summer sneakers (maybe?).
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If you’re lucky enough to grab a pair now, know that they’re just as ready for a casual weekend date or a coffee run as they are for the office or the boardwalk. As near as I can tell, that’s about all your summer style scenarios sorted out (but bear with me(. Pair them with a navy blazer, a classic blue Oxford and slim khaki chinos for versatile workday style, and use that same combo to great effect when you have drinks later that night — or if you travel after work. Then, rock them with slim chino shorts and a casual pocket tee on the weekend. Oh, and if you’re feeling daring, clean them up and match them with a slim chambray suit and a casual white Oxford. Not enough options for you? Stylish white sneakers can act as an upgraded footwear option in place of flip-flops when you head to the beach (just kick the sneakers off before you hit the sand). And when you match up durable poplin sneakers with an essential pair of no-show socks, you’ve got a combo that can last and last through many summer outings to come thanks to the extra layer of protection between your foot and the sneaker. So, you’re getting style that can work at least five days a week and beyond, and you’re getting a classic white color that’ll hold up just fine with care.  What are you waiting for? Let me know how you like ’em over on Twitter, and see how I’ve styled mine over on Instagram.

Before you take off on your Memorial Day hijinks, know that we’ll have a look at my own weekend upstate coming on Monday. For more travel style, click here.

Get your pair of the SeaVees Legend Sneakers now.

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Grayers Exmouth Nylon Blazer

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. For more Wish List items from Beau, head here, and to see other Style Picks, head here.

A blazer that's built with the quality and construction of a rain jacket.

A blazer that’s built with the quality and construction of a rain jacket.

So, are you just about set with your spring style wish list? Yes? No? Maybe? The great thing about keeping a diligent eye on the #menswear community is that it’s always neat to see how brands are taking more traditional silhouettes and pieces — like that of the classic navy blazer — and turning them on their head from time to time. Take the Grayers Exmouth Nylon Blazer, part of a solid line of spring outerwear from the brand. It’s the ideal example of the ways in which brands are introducing products that meet the active lifestyles of lots of customers — and this piece looks a heck of a lot better than some other active, athleisure-inspired looks. That’s because it retains the traditional features of the blazer, right down to the flap patch pockets, three-button front and space for your pocket square, and yet, it’s crafted from lightweight nylon. It’s part rain jacket, part blazer and would stylishly complement just any outfit you can think of — including some of the picks on this Spring Style Essentials list. In fact, it’s got something else on other, more classic blazers. It’s practically built for a commute, especially if you need to hop on your bike (and seeing as May 20 was National Bike to Work Day, that just makes sense).

It's got all the touches of the traditional blazer, including the casual flap patch pockets and room for a trusty pocket square.

It’s got all the touches of the traditional blazer, including the casual flap patch pockets and room for a trusty pocket square.

And should it happen to rain or get breezy this spring, you’re more than covered there. Have I mentioned that it can be packed into its own drawstring pouch? Because it can do that, too. It’s especially suited for travel, be it by train, plane or automobile (sorry, had to). The lightweight nylon should prove comfortable for moving inside and outside, and it would smartly finish off even something as simple as a natural pocket tee and slim khaki chinos. Plus, throw in some sharp suede derbys and you’ve got a look that’s both office and commute-ready. And it would look particularly sharp with a classic white Oxford, yet again, it’s got the functionality of a rain jacket. The price is pretty agreeable considering you get two jackets for the price of one, and it’s just the right piece of outerwear to rock through spring, into summer and even into early fall when layered right. That’s not bad for just one jacket, right?

What do you think of the Exmouth Blazer? How would you style it?

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by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: M.Gemi Strada Derby Shoes

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. For more Wish List items from Beau, head here, and to see other Style Picks, head here.

A very continental, very stylish pair of footwear from a new men's line.

A very continental, very stylish pair of footwear from a new men’s line.

So, by a show of hands — how many of you here recognize the name M.Gemi? Possibly a few? That definitely makes sense — and it means we’re off to a good start. If it’s because your wife, mom, girlfriend or sister is a fan of their luxurious women’s shoes, it’s time for us fellas to start paying attention. Namely, the brand launched men’s shoes earlier this spring — and has done a darn good job of nailing the crisp, classic aesthetic beloved by #menswear fans everywhere. And, whether you have or haven’t come across the brand’s men’s shoes before, they just might have your summer footwear conundrum solved. Certainly, there’s a time and place for stylish leather loafers or classic white sneakers (heck, even denim sneakers work), but there’s a sort of versatility and continental style that’s unmatched when it comes to a classic pair of suede Derby shoes — like the M.Gemi Strada. So named for their casual, open lacing and constructed from Italian Santa Croce suede and a durable leather-and-rubber sole, they very well might be unlike any pair of shoes in your closet — and that’s ideal if you need a footwear refresh this spring. While you’ll have to get on the wait list for some pairs (and figure out your European shoe size), it’s worth the time. And take specific notice of the Sand Strada in the meantime — it’ll match seamlessly with everything from chambray trousers to light grey chinos.

A premium leather-and-rubber sole should stand up to everything from cobblestones to city sidewalks this spring and summer.

A premium leather-and-rubber sole should stand up to everything from cobblestones to city sidewalks this spring and summer.

They’re available in two other highly versatile colors — Navy and Gray — each of which would complement everything from rolled lightwash denim to white jeans. A suede derby shoe in and of itself is also a great shoe to toss on if you fancy trying a bit of a monochromatic look, too. As a footwear piece, they work well as a sneaker substitute with chinos and a blazer, or with a chambray shirt and slim black jeans. Even the Navy Strada packs enough visual contrast in the rich Italian suede to offset slim navy chinos or classic dark denim quite nicely. The same goes for the Sand Strada, seen here. Don’t be afraid to pair those with an indigo pocket tee and light khaki denim for a pretty pleasing visual effect. While it takes some getting used to at first, the art of nonchalantly wearing a great pair of footwear with style staples both casual and tailored has been perfected for years by the guys at Pitti Uomo (whether it fits your sense of style or not). So, given that these are a premium price but not out-of-this-world expensive, it might be time to look into rounding out your closet with your own pair of M.Gemi men’s shoes. These should be the first pair you reach for on Mondays, and they’d be a wise pick for travel, summer weddings and lots of stops in between. With the right suede shoe cleaning kit, you’ll have them for several seasons ahead.

Would you pick up this pair from M.Gemi? What are your thoughts on the brand? Let me know at The Style Guide Facebook page!
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by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: AVI-8 Hawker Harrier II Watch

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. For more Wish List items from Beau, head here, and to see other Style Picks, head here.

Packed with a ton of military style inspiration and featuring a unique strap-and-dial combo, to boot.

Packed with a ton of military style inspiration and featuring a unique strap-and-dial combo, to boot.

Let’s say you’ve got your spring outerwear covered, and maybe even some nice, made-in-America sneakers to go with that. What other accessories might you need in that instance? Well, for starters, a durable, tough casual watch never hurt an outfit in terms of finishing it off right. If you don’t yet have a stylish watch in your arsenal — or if you just want to mix things up a bit — it wouldn’t hurt to reach for a timepiece that draws on heavy military inspiration and packs a lot into one beastly package. In this case, we’re talking about the AVI-8 Hawker Harrier II, a rough-and-tumble watch inspired by Harrier Jump Jets (those planes designed to be used in advanced theatres of war conflict). If there’s a more rugged piece of style inspiration out there, I’ve yet to find it. Heck, there’s even a small missile marker next to the date window. And it’s the perfect option when it comes to changing up your casual watch rotation — for a really solid price, considering what you’re getting. Let’s say you’ve got a classic stainless steel dive watch, a brown leather dress watch, maybe even a black leather dress watch — but are looking for something more suited to, well, not wearing a suit. The Hawker Harrier II has a textured black dial, white numerals that pop nicely against said dial and a beige leather strap complete with contrast stitching — all the makings of a watch that can complement shorts and a simple graphic tee quite nicely. Again, the price is commendable, too.

The full offering -- including a neat detail next to the date window, and a beefy 45mm case diameter.

The full offering — including a neat detail next to the date window, and a beefy 45mm case diameter.

The Japanese quartz movement is reliable and without frills (although some watch enthusiasts prefer a more complicated timepiece), and the 45mm case diameter is just what the doctor ordered as far as a casual watch goes. That larger case diameter means it can take a beating and still look good doing it, namely. It’s not nearly as laidback as a sporty rubber-strap watch, but that means it should look more natural next to a slim spring polo and lightwash jeans. This particular watch is only water resistant to 50mm, so it’s probably best not to go swimming with it — but for the rest of your spring and summertime activities, it’s the way to go. The brand also has a host of other military-inspired watches, including the Flyboy (complete with a NATO strap). There’s just something about the combo of a black dial and a beige strap that’s pretty pleasing when compared to other potential dial-and-strap combinations. And given that the brand has already drawn so heavily off timeless military style inspiration, it’s worth betting that other stylish, unique combinations like the Hawker Harrier II are on their way in the future.

Would you pick up this AVI-8 watch? How would you style it?