Tag / winter style essentials

by Beau H.

Online Shopping Picks: The Best Men’s Winter Accessories To Buy Now

Editor’s note: Click through this link to see more men’s style shopping picks.

Just a couple of weeks ago on The Style Guide, we talked about the best men’s gloves to buy for winter  — a pretty specific category that can nonetheless make a big difference in how you tackle cold weather on the daily.  You might not think much of getting the right winter gloves, but again, the devil is in the details. Such is also the case with other stylish winter accessories — we covered the topic last year on the blog, but we’re updating it for 2017 today. There are certainly multiple ways to go as you gear up for winter — that is to say, you can snap up pieces that are either rugged and built for work & adventure, or more refined and made to dress up (a la some of James Bond’s accessories in “Skyfall”). With that versatile approach in mind, we — and by we, I mean me — compiled choice picks for the chilly weather ahead. So, prepare to dress for the polar vortex and get shopping while there’s still time. Happy shopping!

The Jacket: Taylor Stitch Maritime Submariner Jacket — $198 OR Outerknown Nomadic Parka — $195

Either a parka with technical flair, or a rugged-yet-casual wool jacket. Your call.

Either a parka with technical flair, or a rugged-yet-casual wool jacket. Your call.

In an ideal world, we’d all be able to stock our closets chock full of coats for every type of situation — sadly, there’s not enough time or money to go around for that. With a versatile approach and comfort — plus warmth — in mind, either the Maritime Submariner Jacket  or the reliable, hard-wearing and easy-to-layer Outerknown Nomadic Parka  are really solid winter outerwear picks. The Submariner Jacket  is made from beastly boiled wool, and the Nomadic Parka is a great piece to layer up with when wearing everything from a casual crewneck sweater to a tailored winter outfit.

The Gloves: J. Crew Cashmere-Lined Leather Gloves — $98 OR Hestra Granvik Gloves — $180

Again, the choice between casual style and dressy appeal is up to you.

Again, the choice between casual style and dressy appeal is up to you.

So, here we are again with an underrated style accessory — critical, yet underrated. There’s that tricky balance between dressy and casual here — if you find yourself suiting up on the regular, a pair of refined, cashmered-lined leather gloves is the perfect pick (the smartphone-capable fingers are a nice touch, too). And for all kinds of rugged winter style adventures, there might not be a better pick than the Hestra Granvik Gloves — truly, these guys know what they’re doing when it comes to crafting great winter gloves.

The Hat: Columbiaknit Watch Cap — $17

columbiaknit-watch-cap

As sold by Style Guide favorites Huckberry , there’s something refreshingly no-frills about a well-made, simple and affordable winter hat like the Columbiaknit Watch Cap. Again, winter accessories are an underrated way to complement your overall look — just look at how well our man David Beckham dresses for winter with a simple puffer jacket and yes, a neutral beanie cap. Your ears will definitely thank you when the polar vortex hits.

The Scarf: S.N.S Herning Torso Scarf — $96.60

A scarf that's easily wearable, comfortable and worth the price.

A scarf that’s easily wearable, comfortable and worth the price.

Am I encouraging you to spend nearly $100 on a scarf? Well, yes. If you can only pick up one scarf, you might as well make it a well-made, neutral and versatile piece you can match with anything in your closet. Whether you team it with a slim topcoat or a more rugged piece like the Nomadic Parka, you truly can’t go wrong with this ribbed black scarf. In fact, you could even steal some winter style from Daniel Craig and team it with a thick-knit shawl-collar cardigan.

Frank & Oak

The Socks: Wigwam Merino Lite Hiker Socks — $12.98 OR American Trench Fair Isle Sock in Merino & Cashmere — $28.98

Your call -- simple, well-made socks or a pair with winter-friendly pattern.

Your call — simple, well-made socks or a pair with winter-friendly pattern.

We’ve once again reached that tricky balance between a casual winter accessory and a piece that’s slightly more dressed up. For simple functionality and comfort, there might not be a better value on the market than the Merino Lite Hiker Socks. And if you want a pair with a bit more visual interest — yet the same quality and versatility, the Fair Isle Sock in Merino & Cashmere is about as good as it gets.  Heck, you could snag two pairs of the Merino Lite Hikers, and throw in a pair from American Trench for good measure. Not a bad deal, ehh?

Huckberry

OK, is your closet fully stocked yet? If you still need to upgrade your winter accessories, I hope the above picks give you a place to start. It always pays to reach for quality and versatility — particularly in terms of outerwear like the Submariner Jacket or the essential Nomadic Parka. And with the rest of your accessories, you should hunt for similar quality — so, a thick-knit ribbed scarf and tough winter gloves from the likes of Hestra are wise additions to your ensemble.  And although you might not think too much of it, a comfortable winter hat like the Columbiaknit Watch Cap is going to provide you with long-lasting comfort and warmth (as are functional socks from Wigwam or American Trench). Did you take notes? Open up a few browser tabs? Either way, happy shopping and stay warm out there!

-Beau

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Danner Mountain Light Boots

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.

danner-mountain-light-boots

Sturdy, reliable and durable boots with a bit of sleek styling potential thanks to the all-black silhouette.

There’s something about the depths of winter that causes you to take a look at #menswear pieces you might once have rejected. Not normally a fan of winter parkas? Maybe you’re considering getting one to battle the polar vortex. No need for durable winter gloves built for work? Think again. The same could possibly be said for alpine-inspired hikers. Unlike other stylish men’s winter boots, a hiker is quite distinctive in its silhouette — it’s not your average leather chukka boot, that’s for sure. Such is the case with the Danner Mountain Light, a classic pair of footwear that certainly means business when it comes to looking stylish in the snow.  It’s this week’s Style Pick of the Week for good reason — and not just because it’s the younger brother to the so-called “Bond Boot” — that would be the Danner Mountain Light II, as worn by none other than James Bond in 2015’s “SPECTRE.” Heck, our man Daniel Craig wore his Danner boots even when not on-camera. Now, the silhouette looks almost identical, but the Internet tells me the weights on these bad boys are different. There you go. So, why go for the Danner Mountain Light if you’re not a fan of hikers? Truly, you’ve got plenty of reason to give them a shot (functionality, toughness, alpine-inspired style) — and not just ‘cuz they’re sold via Huckberry.

Our main man Daniel Craig wearing the Danner Mountain Light II.... slightly different, but nonetheless worth channeling (maybe minus the handgun).

Our main man Daniel Craig wearing the Danner Mountain Light II…. slightly different, but nonetheless worth channeling (maybe minus the handgun).

In particular, the Danner Mountain Light is built with functionality in mind, through and through. Made in Danner’s Portland factory — that’d be Oregon — you’re getting all the hallmarks of quality and toughness you’d expect from a USA-made brand (plus a very Bond-ian silhouette). The stitchdown construction means you can resole ’em when the time comes — although you might not get to that point for a while. The Vibram outsole on the Danner Mountain Light — plus the brand’s custom last — also offer stability and support. That all means the Danner Mountain Light is the real deal — built for more than just strolling around the city. And if you’re not sold on the styling potential, take a cue from Bond — without the high-speed mountain chase. Slim black denim and rugged pieces like a shawl-collar cardigan and a marled henley are simple, effective complements to this rugged pair of boots — it’s practically an outfit tailor-made for getting around during a winter bar crawl. They’re the perfect pair of weekend boots, especially when teamed with simple, easygoing pieces like a classic crewneck sweater and beat-up blue denim. Even a simple piece like a sleek black bomber and black trousers are finished off reliably with the Danner Mountain Light — stealing  page from Bond’s playbook there. And of course, more technically inclined looks work just fine with a pair of boots that are tough, functional and yet uniquely stylish — your dad’s retro hiking boots, these are not. So, lace up and get climbing. Any thoughts on the Danner Mountain Light? Are you pro-hiker or anti-hiker? Let’s hear it in the comments below!

Thanks, as always, for reading — enjoy the weekend!

-Beau

Get the Danner Mountain Light now via Huckberry.

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Beckett Simonon

by Beau H.

Style Q+A: Rivay Menswear

Editor’s note: To read up on a host of great menswear brands & personalities, check out the rest of the Style Q+A series.

If tough menswear that blends vintage inspiration with timeless functionality is what you need ... you just found your new favorite brand.

If tough menswear that blends vintage inspiration with timeless functionality is what you need … you just found your new favorite brand.

I must say, the first Style Q+A of 2017 is a pretty exciting one here on the blog. Investment-worthy and incredible to shop, yes — but also very exciting. The opportunities the menswear world provides to so many people — both as a career and a creative outlet — are pretty cool and often unexpected. That’s the case with Rivay, a relatively young new menswear brand based out of NYC that I’ve had the chance to learn more about this winter season. It sprang from unexpected beginnings (stick around for the Q+A), and I’d wager it’s here to stay. Certainly, if it’s sturdy, handsome winter style essentials that you seek, you’re in luck — lots of luck. I won’t give everything away here, but Rivay gets plenty of things right on multiple #menswear fronts. From a ridiculously beautiful hand-knit cable sweater to everyday pieces that blend functionality and style — like the Keats Hooded Parka — the collection feels of a different, more rustic and rugged age … yet it would be easy to wear in the streets of NYC and well beyond this winter. I caught up with founder Jon Ruti, who provided some excellent insight into the brand’s unlikely beginnings and how the streets of the Big Apple shape the design, technicality and yes, truly great style of his menswear line. So as you take stock of your 2017 menswear resolutions — be they upgrading your closet itself or upgrading your home goods — you’d be wise to look into Rivay to help you with a few choice menswear pieces. You really won’t regret it. For now, I’ll let founder Jon Ruti fill you in on a brand that’s making big waves in the NYC menswear scene.

TSG: Tell me about the start of the Rivay brand, in your own words?

 JR: The idea for Rivay began when I was still working as an Assistant District Attorney here in New York City. Prosecution is a tough job. The long hours and subject matter can wear a person down. To maintain balance, I made a point to dedicate weekends to pursuing my hobbies. Vintage cars, travel – anything that took my mind off the job.

When it came time to leave the office, I couldn’t find a brand for the transition from profession to off-duty. Existing brands were either too technical or too fashion. I wanted a clean, modern, well edited collection that looked natural going to and from my weekend passions. That’s when Rivay took shape.

TSG: NYC-centric design is a big focus for Rivay – how does the city shape the clothing you produce?

JR: NYC informs our designs in several ways. Living and working here gives us insight into how our styles should function. Crowded subway cars, freak downpours, cracked sidewalks – daily life here can be tough on a man’s wardrobe. To combat this, we source the best fabrics, those that can handle the daily commute as well as a weekend of adventure. Our silhouettes are clean, modern and made to stand up to daily life. So no matter if you’re using our parka for a rainy commute or a weekend drive, you can be sure it’s going to perform, look good and last.

In the more general sense, NYC is a place where classic and modern exist in harmony. It’s a characteristic that informs our designs. Using modern, clean silhouettes and constructing them with classic, time-tested fabrics is a cornerstone of our design philosophy.

The Kipling Wool Overshirt and Hopper Selvedge Oxford Workshirt are excellent examples of perfect pieces from the brand.

The Kipling Wool Overshirt and Japanese Cotton Chambray Popover are excellent examples of perfect pieces from the brand.

TSG: What’s your favorite item in the current line? Any plans to expand into different product categories in future seasons?

 JR: I love our Keats Parka. It’s unlined, paired down to the absolute essentials and looks just as good over a suit on the way to the office or over a t-shirt on the way to a Saturday cars & coffee. Pair it with one of our lightweight and ultra-soft Japanese wool shirt jackets and you’ve got yourself a warm & seriously stylish alternative to the typical Barbour or Patagonia setup.

For Spring-Summer 2017, we have some exciting developments in pants, shorts and printed shirting. Some of the hardest things for a man to find are flattering pants and masculine, restrained prints. We’ve spent a lot of time perfecting the fit of our pants and sourcing fabrics and prints that will have you looking stylish for the warmer months.

TSG: On a style-related note, what’s one essential (either from your brand, or a style classic) that every guy should own?

 From Rivay, our Hopper Selvedge Oxford Work Shirt is an excellent alternative to the typical oxford. Just as soft and durable as the classic, but in an updated silhouette that is both rugged and refined.

For items outside of Rivay, a vintage timepiece or a car with some character. On the pricier spectrum, a Rolex Submariner 5513 and a Defender 90 look good with anything, anytime, anywhere. For something a little more approachable, a vintage Smiths W10 Military watch and late 1960s all-original Ford pickup are timeless. So long as you invest in good design, it will never go out of style.

Shop the beautiful Rivay collection just as soon as you can, and follow Rivay on Instagram for quite the dash of visual inspiration.

Beckett Simonon

by Beau H.

#OOTD: The Best Way to Wear a Turtleneck This Winter

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

As we’ve moved through the #OOTD series, we’ve covered a whole host of content — everything from how to suit up this winter to wearing a classic Oxford. We’re continuing down that path with something a bit more adventurous — in one regard — than past #menswear features on this site. Whether you’re a Steve McQueen devotee or have only started noticing the ubiquity of this classic-turned-trend-turned … nearly classic, you’ve surely seen a stylish fella or two rocking a turtleneck.  It’s a style move that can feel a little bit advanced, particularly if you’re just refreshing your style for the new year. So, today’s #OOTD  will ease into wearing a turtleneck in a way that’s accessible and sharp for just about anybody Now, if you fancy yourself a bit more advanced in the style department, check out some next-level tips on how to wear a turtleneck from Articles of Style. And on a more basic front, since style is an evolving process, I’d say stick to buying classics like a slim crewneck sweater or a sharp V-neck sweater before buying a turtleneck. But if you do want to dip your toes into this bolder move, the option featured today shouldn’t hurt your wallet too much. Curiosity piqued? OK, great. Read on below, and let’s catch up on Twitter and Instagram while we’re here.
Huckberry

Sharp, simple and easier to pull off than you think -- truly.

Sharp, simple and easier to pull off than you think — truly.

The Turtleneck: JackThreads Franklin Turtleneck, $39 — Kicking things off with a rich winter shade that’s not too ostentatious — yes, this burgundy turtleneck is affordably priced and made from an easy-to-layer cotton.

The Peacoat: J. Crew Dock Peacoat with Thinsulate, $298 — What’s the key to making it all work? A classic winter outer layer like this J. Crew peacoat — it works even better if you’ve got an original U.S. Navy Peacoat on-hand.

The Pants: Bonobos Jetsetter Wool Pants in Light Grey, $198 — The idea of taking grey trousers and mashing them up with black boots and a dark peacoat feels a little something like James Bond would wear, ehh? That’s why it’s the way to go here. Yes, they’re pricey — but Bonobos makes trousers as good as they get.

The Boots: Nisolo Emilio Chukka Boot, $149.98 — Because it’s chilly and slushy out there, slick black boots with a rather unique construction and a slim profile are a smart move — get the Emilio Chukka Boot ASAP.

The Socks: American Trench Pima Cotton Houndstooth Socks, $16.98 — Dress socks that break away from a solid light grey or charcoal are a welcome touch in winter, and American Trench knows how to craft them.

The Belt: Bonobos Black Leather Dress Belt, $98 — If you’re grabbing some slim Bonobos trousers, might as well grab a slick, investment-level black dress belt to accent them, right?

The Watch: Daniel Wellington Classic Sheffield Watch in Black Leather, $229 — A slim, refined black leather dress watch is underrated in the men’s style world (brown leather seems to dominate). So, this is a smart pick-up.

The Wallet: Tanner Goods Limited Edition Quad Wallet, $54.98 — Because this is the type of outfit that’s ideal to wear to a refined dinner or (dare I say) a nice night at the theater, you need a slim, refined and well-made wallet. Lucky that Tanner Goods has you set with the Quad Wallet, yes?
NOV CAMPAIGN: Horizontal banner with shoes and logo (border)

Hopefully, we’re all on-board with the turtleneck trend by now — or at least, on the road to considering how to wear it in a refined, accessible manner. When you start with a rich, winter-friendly color like burgundy and ground it with a  classic peacoat and slim grey trousers, you’re stepping out in something that’s crisp and classic — nothing too crazy here. Crisp black leather chukka boots are perfect in terms of functionality and sharp style, as is a refined black leather dress watch. And a slim leather wallet  leaves nothing to chance in terms of a well-composed everyday carry. Have more questions on other ways to wear a turtleneck or stylish winter accessories to buy to go with this look? Drop me a line via email — or leave a question in the comments!

Thanks very much for reading,

-Beau

by Beau H.

Style Suggestion: How To Dress for Winter Travel

We’re back into action with another handy, super-useful Style Suggestion today on The Style Guide (redundant, but important to note). And unlike recent style suggestions, like what to wear on New Year’s Eve or how to dress for your holiday party,  the below outfit is one you can make use of all winter long — particularly when it’s cold and snowy, yet you’ve got a road trip on the horizon. Whether you’re packing up the car for a weekend trip, stepping onto a train for a getaway up or down the coast, or flying cross-country, the focus today is on comfort, style and classic looks. It’s all about ease of layering and pieces that can go just about anywhere — and of course, a handsome, durable weekender bag with which to carry everything. Are you ready to pack up and hit the road? If you need more travel style tips, check out what I packed and wore on a winter trip to Baltimore or a fall trip to Providence — most importantly, visit yours truly on Instagram for a daily behind-the-scenes look at my (overstuffed) closet. Shop away!

The Weekender Bag: Nisolo Leon Weekender in Chestnut — $339.98

A supremely stylish and tough leather weekender bag.

A supremely stylish and tough leather weekender bag.

When packing for a road trip, it should all start with your bag — right? And there might not be a better place to get a stylish weekender bag than our friends at Huckberry. In particular, the Nisolo Leon Weekender is just the beautiful, handmade leather bag your closet’s been missing. Named for the Mexican city where’s it produced, the  Leon Weekender features vegetable-tanned leather and small details like leather zipper pulls and a tan cotton canvas lining for durability. The  Leon Weekender is a bit smaller in size than the Owen & Fred Voyager Waxed Weekender,  but no less worthy of a purchase.

The Dopp Kit: Nisolo Durango Dopp Kit — $88

The ideal way to complement your new favorite weekender bag -- right?

The ideal way to complement your new favorite weekender bag — right?

You didn’t think we’d get packing for your next trip without considering a stylish men’s dopp kit, did you? And when it comes to complementing the exceedingly handsome Nisolo Leon Weekender, there’s perhaps no better dopp kit to buy than the Durango Dopp Kit. Made with vegetable-tanned leather and featuring what the brand says is a deep design for carrying all of your winter grooming essentials , it’ll look — and age — as great as it performs.

The Jacket: Taylor Stitch Maritime Submariner Jacket — $248

Welted handwarmer pockets and patch flap pockets translate to functionality, top-notch construction and great style.

Potentially your new favorite travel jacket for cold weather — trust me.

As seen recently on this site’s Style Pick of the Week series, the handsome, vintage-inspired and functional Maritime Submariner Jacket is just what you need to tackle winter travel. Even if you’re only dashing from your car to the airport, you want to be bundled up — that goes for departing and returning in equal measure.  And if you’re heading to a cold locale and need to pack light, the Maritime Submariner Jacket — with its custom anchor buttons, beastly boiled wool exterior and slim, casual-yet-rugged fit, is the perfect travel jacket.

The Shirt: Mack Weldon Pima Long-Sleeve Crew — $38

A surprisingly crisp long-sleeve tee comfortable for travel and layering.

A surprisingly crisp long-sleeve tee comfortable for travel and layering.

Available in a diverse and essential array of colors, the Mack Weldon team definitely knows what it’s doing in terms of essential, well-made basics. From its Merino Long-Sleeve Tees to its comfortable, slim-fitting and crisp Pima Long-Sleeve Crew Tees, the brand gets it right — particularly when you consider the fact that this is the sort of long-sleeve tee you can wear under a blazer with ease. And if you feel it’s not sharp enough, you can always pack it away and reach for a classic chambray shirt for travel instead. You with me still? Good.

The Denim: Mugsy Jeans Hamms Jeans — $98

Dark, slim-fitting jeans with a ton of comfort and stretch -- as good as it gets.

Dark, slim-fitting jeans with a ton of comfort and stretch — as good as it gets.

Mugsy Jeans is building its brand on providing slim-fitting, comfortable jeans for men that, well, have a little more crotch space (don’t worry, that’s an Esquire.com link). Aside from that dubious distinction, they’re exceedingly easy to wear and move around in, as I found out on an upstate trip to Hudson last fall. And so, they’re a wise pick if you’re going to be sitting down and then moving through a crowded airport all day — but in a classic dark wash, you can wear them right out to drinks once you arrive at your destination.

The Boots: Thursday Boots Brown Duke Boot —  $199

Crisp, sharp and versatile for travel and beyond.

Crisp, sharp and versatile for travel and beyond.

Thursday Boots is a favorite of this blog — sometimes weekly — for the way they combine price, quality and versatility (although if you visit here frequently, maybe you’ve picked up a pair for yourself). Slick Chelsea boots are quickly moving from a trend into a versatile, everyday style essential for the modern man — check out how our man David Beckham wears them, for one. And the Brown Duke Boot is crisp, easy to slip on and off going through security, and works with everything from denim and the Maritime Submariner Jacket to a sharp suit on a business trip.

Beckett Simonon

The Socks: American Trench Random Plait Sock in Fire — $10.98

Subtle texture, major style points and a great price.

Subtle texture, major style points and a great price.

Simple, nice and hole-free socks are a must when traveling — don’t take that for granted. And a crisp pair of American Trench socks really is the pair you need to pick up — heck, if you’re only traveling for a three or four-day weekend, you could feasibly pack only socks from American Trench. The red color and subtle texture here breaks up the blue denim, blue shirt and grey jacket nicely, too. Plus, the sub-$11 price tag can’t be topped.

The Belt: Arcade Belt Co. Crawford Belt in Olive Green — $27.98

A belt that combines casual style with stretch & comfort.

A belt that combines casual style with stretch & comfort.

Be it sitting in a cramped car, plane or train, comfort is key — witness those stretch jeans near the top of the page. It only makes sense, then, to reach for a belt with just as much stretch, comfort and crisp style The Arcade Belt Co. Crawford Belt is the piece you need for winter travel — it’s easy to slip on and off, it stretches & moves with you, and it nicely complements the crisp blue jeans. Granted, it’s a bit different in terms of color than the brown Chelsea boots shown here, but I’d wager you’ll be more put-together than folks wearing sweatpants — ehh?

The Watch: Luminox Atacama Day/Date Field Watch — $319.98

A rugged-yet-refined timepiece for travel and activities once you get to your destination.

A rugged-yet-refined timepiece for travel and activities once you get to your destination.

Take it from a guy who loves an essential casual watch — you need to travel with at least one (or two … or three?). If you need to pack light but still want to travel in style with a timepiece that can do just about anything, something sharp and rugged-yet-refined is the way to go. Enter the Luminox Atacama Day/Date Field Watch. We’re talking PVD-plated stainless steel hardware, a handsome black-and-tan combination, and a tough 45mm case diameter. It might be a bit big on some wrists, but with the rest of this casual ensemble, it should do just fine.
Frank & Oak

That wraps up the latest style suggestion — did you find it helpful? As with many different style scenarios — from dressing for a weekend coffee date  to dressing for a business casual office, many of the same principles apply. That is, fit and comfort — especially comfort — are paramount when hitting the road. And classic pieces, like a well-made Mack Weldon crewneck and dark stretch denim, are excellent places to start. When you consider the versatility and durability of your outerwear and accessories, the Maritime Submariner Jacket  and the sturdy, tough Luminox Atacama Day/Date Field Watch are prime pieces to grab. Of course, a remarkably stylish and well-made weekender bag — that’d be the Nisolo Leon Weekender is going to get you from point A to point B (and maybe point C) in style. Ready to travel? Get to it!

Good luck and stay stylish,

-Beau

 

 

by Beau H.

#OOTD: Classic Winter Style

Welcome to another edition of the #OOTD series here on The Style Guide.  At this point in the winter season, hopefully, you’ve got a closet stocked chock-full of style essentials — you know, things you can wear (and enjoy wearing) every day, like a slim topcoat , a great pair of dark denim, a sharp casual watch … you get the picture. If you don’t yet have those pieces, that’s what today’s #OOTD will solve. We’re talking a classic-yet-modern ensemble that fits in at the office on a casual day, out at the bar or stepping out on a weekend coffee date.  It’s focused on taking easy-to-wear pieces — some of which you might recognize from past posts — and putting it all together in one sharp combination. After all, that’s what great style is all about — and if you’re hard at work on your 2017 menswear resolutions, versatility should be top of mind.  So, it’s all on the table; let’s get to it, shall we? Leave any feedback on Twitter or in the comments below — let’s get shopping!

Some classic pieces, some new pieces and a combination that's ready for nearly anything.

Some classic pieces, some new pieces and a combination that’s ready for nearly anything.

The Shirt: Flint and Tinder Texas Moleskin Shirt, $89 — So, let’s start off this ensemble with a unique take on the traditional Oxford — this American-made moleskin shirt should be warm, slim-fitting and versatile (add a grey wool tie if you need to sharpen it up a bit).

The Cardigan: JackThreads Cable Knit Cardigan, $59 — Here’s yet another layering piece that switches things up from the typical shawl-collar cardigan — note the cable knit and unique silhouette.

The Topcoat: JackThreads Tieman Topcoat, $149 — Is there ever really a bad time to throw on a camel topcoat? Not really — and this sharp, double-breasted number adds a bit of tailored flair to this casual #OOTD.

The Denim: Flint and Tinder All-American Jeans in Straight Tapered, $98 — While you could also reach for a pair of classic slim chinos, American-made denim in a slim-straight cut is the slightly more rugged, casual option if you’re putting together a weekend brunch ensemble, for instance.

The Boots: G.H. Bass Camp Moc Toe Ranger Boots, $160 — For a combination of prep style and rugged good looks, it’s tough to beat these handsome moc toe boots.

The Socks: American Trench Fair Isle Sock in Merino and Cashmere, $28.98 — When a brand like American Trench consistently delivers superbly high-quality socks, you make it a point to buy ’em in bunches — right?

The Belt: Anderson’s Stretch Woven Leather Belt, $114.98 — How do you offset a mix of casual and dressy pieces? With a textured leather belt that’s incredibly well-made, that’s how.

The Watch: Timex + Todd Snyder Red Wing Leather Chronograph, $158 — Last but not least — if you want a watch that’s rugged, functional and handsome, this is the one to buy. It’s the perfect complement to this versatile ensemble — in my humble opinion, that is.
Frank & Oak

And with that, we’ve reached the end of this week’s #OOTD — what did you think? It’s tough to be a slim-fitting, classic American-made moleskin shirt, particularly when you offset that with unique layers like a navy cable-knit cardigan and a classic camel topcoat. Throw on a classic, durable pair of essential dark blue denim and pair the look up with rough-and-tumble (yet versatile) moc toe boots for style that’ll work throughout the work week and on into a weekend happy hour. And if you needed an excuse to buy a stylish leather watch, that Red Wing Leather Chronograph is just what the doctor ordered. OK, do you have all those notes down? Somewhat? Good, good. Let me know what you think in the comments — and thanks, as always, for reading!

-Beau

Huckberry

by Beau H.

Online Shopping Picks: The Best Men’s Gloves to Buy For Winter

It’s been a bit of time since our last Online Shopping Picks post on The Style Guide, and with that being said, we’ve moved through the rugged, crisp fall season into a chilly, blustery winter. So, how to stay warm and do it stylishly? Better yet, what gear to buy to get you through the winter season? Similar to dressing for the first snowfall , you need the best of the best out there — that goes for something as simple as your next pair of winter gloves, too. They’re a somewhat overlooked part of an entire ensemble — and there are more choices than one might expect. Dressy situations? Dress gloves — a la James Bond’s gloves in “Skyfall.” More casual scenarios? We’ve got the gloves for those instances, too. And in matters of style — particularly when it comes to keeping warm — no detail is too small. Check out the below picks and weigh in with any additions to this list on Twitter or, as always, in the friendly comments section.

#1.J. Crew Cashmere-Lined Leather Smartphone Gloves — $98

Get them in Black or Saddle Blue -- just get them as quick as you can.

Get them in Black or Saddle Blue — just get them as quick as you can.

We’re kicking off this list with a fairly classic pick from everyone’s favorite accessible, stylish retailer. Combining the comfort and quality of cashmere lining with the usability us smartphone users need nowadays, these gloves are sharp, slick and ready to finish off a tailored winter ensemble in fine fashion. Of course, they’re versatile enough to work as a complementary piece to casual weekend outfits. And although they nearly top $100, the functionality, warmth and looks of these gloves make them worth the investment — in either Black or Saddle Blue.

#2. United By Blue Ragg Wool Gloves — $26

Casual, comfortable and unique -- the ideal pair of off-duty gloves.

Casual, comfortable and unique — the ideal pair of off-duty gloves.

Whereas those cashmere-lined J. Crew gloves are the perfect option for quick commutes or casual weekend outings, the United By Blue Ragg Wool Gloves are a decidedly more casual alternative. With fitted cuffs and a unique ragg wool knit that the brand says isn’t scratchy, these are the kind of gloves to throw on when layering up a piece like the Todd Snyder x Champion Pocket Sweatshirt and a flannel-lined waxed trucker jacket. Whether you’re hauling brush or just dashing down the street to snag a quick coffee, these are the gloves you need.

#3. Hestra Tor Gloves — $180

Durable, high-quality gloves from a classic accessories maker.

Durable, high-quality gloves from a classic accessories maker.

As sold by the Style Guide-approved folks at Huckberry, it’s tough to beat a pair of heritage-quality, stunningly well-made set of Hestra gloves. And certainly, the Hestra Tor Gloves won’t let you down when it comes time to brave the polar vortex.  Just like the Ragg Wool Gloves from United By Blue, the Hestra Tor Gloves are a working man’s pair of gloves, without a doubt. Made from elk leather and lined with wool terry, they’re unique, built to last and definitely quite warm.

A dependable, functional set of gloves for under $50.

A dependable, functional set of gloves for under $50.

It should come as no surprise that the second J. Crew on this list is selling pretty quickly — buy these while they’re still around. This pair is yet another more casual alternative to the cashmere-lined iteration seen in the first slot, but they’re still just as worth adding to your arsenal. The textured wool and ribbed cuffs help with both fit and comfort, and the leather on the palms and fingers makes ’em smartphone-capable. Not bad — not bad at all.

Frank & Oak

#5. Hestra Granvik Gloves — $180

Remarkably well-made, tough gloves as sold by Huckberry and of course, Hestra.

Remarkably well-made, tough gloves as sold by Huckberry and of course, Hestra.

We’re closing out this list with another pair of tough-as-nails Hestra gloves, and for good reason.  Again made with elk leather, the Granvik Gloves also feature the same wool terry lining as the Tor Gloves for a high dose of warmth and comfort. The elastic cuffs keep these gloves secure while keeping snow and wind out — crucial in the cold weather. And the eye-catching, rich color combination means these are the type of gloves to reach for when you throw on everything from a denim jacket and slim topcoat to an indigo parka in a blizzard. Trust me.

And with that, we’ve wrapped up yet another (hopefully) helpful Online Shopping Picks entry — which gloves from the above list are you buying this year? If you only have the budget to buy one pair of gloves, something like J. Crew’s leather smartphone gloves just might be the way to. And if you find yourself in rugged style and work situations more often than not, perhaps a set of Hestra gloves will suffice. It’s all about reading the situation properly — and if it’s cold as heck out there, it’s more about bundling up than anything. Any brands you’d add to this list? Let me know via The Style Guide Facebook page.

Stay stylish out there!

-Beau

by Beau H.

The Friday Read: The Golden Globes, Bridge and Burn and Daniel Craig’s Winter Style

Editor’s note: Expect these posts once a week on Fridays — consider this a jumpstart on reading for your weekend downtime. Expect a mix of style and non-style content. For more entries, click here.

We’ve nearly reached the end of quite the week in NYC (and elsewhere)… particularly if you follow politics. I have a feeling we’ll be saying that a lot in the weeks and months to come, but for now, let’s keep things strictly focused on all the good that came out of the #menswear world this week — shall we?  Crucially, if you don’t have any 2017 style resolutions set up yet, fear not — there’s still time! And with a new and refreshed approach comes a whole host of other valuable insights to step up your style, from how to suit up this winter to the best winter boots to buy now — seriously, these are all men’s style upgrades you can make like, right now. If you’re keeping your eye on other lifestyle endeavors, like upgrading your home goods, know that we’ve got some helpful content coming your way in the next few weeks. And in the meantime, did you enter this week’s reader giveaway with the great folks at Friday and River?? No, you say? Well, you’ve got until tonight — so, get to it while you can. And if you need something to read while you work on this chilly Friday, the below pieces ought to have you covered — for at least part of the day.

  • Did you happen to catch the Golden Globes? Perhaps you’ve read about ’em a little bit here and there (or a lot), but one man with show-stealing style? Donald Glover, y’all. Esquire.com breaks down Donald Glover’s Golden Globes style — and it was memorable and sharp.
  • Remember the good folks at Bridge and Burn? Purveyors of plenty of great style gear, including one of this site’s best denim shirts to buy now? Yes, those guys. They’re back with a great deal to get your wardrobe sorted in 2017. Now through January 15th, use the code ‘SAVE30’ to get 30 percent off all Bridge and Burn gear! That’s a heck of a deal from a brand that makes investment-worthy goods — might I suggest something winter-ready, like the Bedford Navy Multi-Stripe Shirt? Or perhaps a personal favorite, the Flint Denim Overshirt? You’d do well to buy and layer either one, be it over a rugged henley or atop your favorite crewneck sweatshirt and tough selvedge denim.
  • Here at ye olde Style Guide, we love rugged winter layering. So who better to show us how it’s done than everyone’s favorite Bond himself, Daniel Craig? GQ.com takes us through a seriously cozy and still-stylish fit from a guy who knows a thing or two about rugged style. The man is definitely to be emulated, that much is true.

We’re not done with our weekly dose of menswear yet …

  • Although I love writing about classic men’s accessories like stylish weekender bags, it can be nice to switch it up every now and then — take my latest piece for GearMoose, for instance. I don’t know if I’d rock a rolltop backpack every day, but if a new bag upgrade is what you need, I’d point you toward my roundup of the best men’s rolltop backpacks. Happy reading!

OK, we’re all wrapped up with this edition of the Friday Read — join us for our Style Pick of the Week tomorrow, and enter the Friday and River giveaway while there’s still time.

Cheers everyone,

-Beau

by Beau H.

#OOTD: The Best Way to Suit Up This Winter

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

Maybe as we enter 2017, one of your New Year’s resolutions has been to suit up more  — but if you don’t quite have the right gear to do so in winter weather, that can be a difficult endeavor. So, if you need a sharp tailored suit and durable winter accessories for the season, today’s Style Guide post you all set. It’s a bit different than wearing a summer blazer  — the need for added layers, for one — but you’re also going to want to start out with a more textured shirt and tie, plus tougher shoes. Lest we forget, you’ll still need to stay warm with a  crisp topcoat, too. So there are certainly more variables at play than when dressing up in the spring, summer or fall. If some of the below pieces look familiar, well, that’s the point of a versatile wardrobe — right?? Bear with me as we step into winter with serious tailored style, and I’d love to get your thoughts via Twitter on this look. Happy shopping!

Winter textures and accessories make a fine cold-weather suiting combo.

Winter textures and accessories make a fine cold-weather suiting combo.

The Suit: Taylor Stitch Telegraph Jacket and Trousers in Grey Wool, $456 — The ever-reliable, durable and winter-appropriate Telegraph Suit is just the right mix of crisp and casual when it comes to suiting — the grey wool fabric is classic, the patch pockets are casual and the fit is on-point throughout. Oh, and don’t forget a crisp dress belt.

The Topcoat: JackThreads Tieman Topcoat in Charcoal Houndstooth, $104.30 — Told you a sharp topcoat would be of particular importance, right? This charcoal houndstooth number is all old-school cool.

NOV CAMPAIGN: Horizontal banner with shoes and logo (border)

The Tie: The Tie Bar Scramble Knit Stripe Tie, $25 — Want to shake up your normal tie rotation? Try a textured knit with seasonally appropriate burgundy stripes.
 
The Pocket Square: Ties.com Galveston Pocket Square, $10 — Are we breaking out a cotton pocket square in the dead of winter? We sure are, because this pocket square breathes a bit of life into the blue, red and charcoal combo on your top half.
The Boots: Nisolo Emilio LE Chukka Boot, $149.98 — This limited-edition, five-eye chukka boot lends some hearty visual interest to the wool suit, and is fit for stepping through the occasional snowdrift (occasional being the operative word).

The Socks: American Trench Superfine Merino Herringbone Socks, $28.98 — Want a pair of sharp socks that’ll still keep you warm? American Trench is the way to go — this pair is dressy, sharp and comfortable.

The Watch: Orient Bambino 2nd Generation Watch, $198.98 — Is it possible to get a quality dress watch for under $200? It certainly is, particularly when you reach for something as sharp, simple and classic as the Orient Bambino.

 OK, are you all ready to suit up for winter? When you start with a spread-collar chambray shirt and build up with key accessories like a classic knit tie and textured pocket square, a suit as handsome as the Taylor Stitch Telegraph Suit  is really going to shine. Meanwhile, sturdy Nisolo leather chukka boots should be tough and durable, while American Trench socks won’t let you down in the comfort or looks department. And every man should own a simple, crisp black leather dress watch like the Orient Bambino 2nd Generation.  How will you be suiting up this winter? Let’s hear it in the comments below — thanks, as always, for reading!
-Beau

by Beau H.

Style Pick of the Week: Taylor Stitch Maritime Submariner Jacket

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.

Right down to the smallest details -- Taylor Stitch gets it right, again.

Right down to the smallest details — Taylor Stitch gets it right, again.

Happy Saturday, folks — and if it’s Saturday, it’s that time. Yes, it’s everyone’s favorite recurring menswear series, the Style Pick of the Week. We’ve introduced you over the past few weeks to all kinds of winter style essentials, from a durable and unique American-made moleskin shirt  to a slim leather wallet to a great pair of rugged leather boots for winter. Now, what’s the one thing that’s going to tie together all those everyday pieces? A beautiful, durable and beastly coat like *cue fireworks* the Taylor Stitch Maritime Submariner Jacket. Bingo. Available in a quickly dwindling size run via the Taylor Stitch Web site, the great news is that you can get the uniquely tailored and rugged Maritime Submariner Jacket right now, this very instant, via Huckberry. It’s worth doing — trust me. Made from a positively tough and hefty 19oz. Italian boiled lambswool, this jacket is impeccably tailored and comes with the bells and whistles you need this winter. That starts with the maritime-inspired anchor buttons — no loose threads in sight — and carries through to the welted handwarmer pockets and hip patch flap pockets for handling your daily haul (maybe the Taylor Stitch Minimalist Collection, come to think of it?).  Oh, and the fit and style points? Nearly off the charts.

Welted handwarmer pockets and patch flap pockets translate to functionality, top-notch construction and great style.

Welted handwarmer pockets and patch flap pockets translate to functionality, top-notch construction and great style.

With a trim silhouette and sharp Ash Donegal Lamsbwool fabric, it’s the perfect classy-but-casual weekend — and weekday — jacket. It’s made for slipping over a classic Oxford shirt alongside garment-dyed chinos for your 9-to-5 grind, and it’s built to withstand a weekend’s worth of outdoor adventures atop inky blue selvedge denim and a trusty pair of (can you guess?) … your favorite brown leather boots.  And if you happen to be able to style it with something as essential as the Taylor Stitch Everyday Chambray Shirt, you’ll be set for nearly any situation — Sunday brunch, a weekend coffee date … you name it, this jacket works in cozy, durable and handsome winter style. It’s almost as coveted by this menswear blogger as the Taylor Stitch Rover Jacket — at this rate, you might end up with a whole closet full of Taylor Stitch gear. Not that that would be a bad thing at all, of course.

Get the Taylor Stitch Maritime Submariner Jacket via Huckberry while it lasts.
Beckett Simonon