We’re taking a look back at the best (at least what WE consider the best) of what Dappered had to offer last year, today with a focus on how-tos, tips, and lists. Consider these best of 2025 posts an exercise in recognizing what was popular with the Dappered readers, so we continue to create informative and useful posts in the New Year. And by the way, to you the Dappered readers: thanks.

10 Tips for Building an Affordable, Versatile Wardrobe

Shown: Seiko 5 40mm SRPE55 – $295

A listed out advice post on what to prioritize when building a both versatile and affordable wardrobe. Colors, styles, and what to prioritize. Making sure all your things can do more than just one thing.

Skimp, Spend, Splurge: 10 Types of Fall & Winter Coats & Jackets

Shown: J. Crew’s Dock Peacoat – $348.50 ($498)

Whether to skimp, spend a little more, or really splurge on a coat is a matter of opinion. We looked at 10 different styles of coats, then gave you three picks from each at three spending levels. Thirty one coats in all, (one extra coat snuck in there due to one “mega-splurge” suggestion). Might be worth a look, as we start to approach Winter Coat Clearance season.

15 Little Secrets of Men’s Style

Small strategies, tricks, and choices which are aren’t always obvious, but still make a significant difference.

The “Sometimes” Weekly 10 Best Style Deals for Men

Part recap, part reminder just in case you see something you hadn’t caught earlier. Instead of focusing on currently running sales and brands from a wider viewpoint, we drill down into individual pieces for a weekend-worthy, top-10 style countdown. No cheesy radio DJ voice required. At least, not yet.

The Best Affordable Watches for Grads or Dads of 2025

Shown: Dan Henry 1937 Dress Chronograph – $290

An annual benchmark. Suggestions for the graduation or father’s day gift that’ll help grads and dads disconnect, add a little style into the rotation, and just appreciate a cool piece of human engineering.

10 Best Bets for $75 or Less

Shown: Tie Bar Tonal Square Dot Navy Tie – $28

There’s still plenty out there in the world of men’s style to be had for less than seventy-five bucks. This monthly post is proof that style doesn’t have to cost a fortune.

The Style-Centric Grown-up “Back to School” (Work) Style Shopping List for Men

When it comes to back to school, why should kids have all the fun? We can take advantage of this time of year as well, as a lot of us turn our attention to autumn. Bags, books, clothes, notebooks… it’s all there in this style-centric list. Fun and kinda dumb, yet back-to-school is a good reminder to look “smart.”

25 Irrefutable Men’s Style Rules

From suits to ties, navigating laundromats, and learning to shine (shoes.) Unarguable, indisputable, unassailable RULES RULES RULES. Carve them in stone! (… maybe.)

Thanks again to everyone who gives this little corner of the internet a chance. Here’s to a stylish 2026!

1. Make your first suit purchase a charcoal two button with notch lapels.

2. A four-in-hand is the right tie knot 98.6% of the time.

3. Wool socks > cotton socks. And they’re worth the price.

4. Laundromats are a fact of life. The machines will also lie about the temperature settings and cook your clothes.

5. Dark wash denim will never go out of style…

6. …unless they’ve been cut into jean shorts.

7. Being overdressed may get you snide comments. It’ll also get you the job (or the date).

8. That said, no one likes a show off. Know the difference between effort and peacocking.

9. Learn to iron.

10. And sew on a button.

11. And while you’re at it, how to shine (read: polish) some dress shoes.

12. Find a good tailor you trust. They can make affordable clothing look amazing on you.

13. But you tailor also can’t do a thing about shoes that don’t fit right. Be particular about shoes and prioritize your feet.

14. Wearing cologne is a team sport. It’s up to the wearer to anticipate who does and who does not want to be on their team on any given day, in any given situation.

15. Blues, grays, browns, black. That’s the foundation.

16. A crisp white dress shirt with a nice looking semi spread collar is rarely the wrong call.

17. Dry-clean your suits and sportcoats only when absolutely necessary (sweat, smoke, or other stink = necessary).

18. 80% of the time you can steam it instead of fully dry cleaning it. It’ll look and feel refreshed. So invest in a steamer.

19. Build a habit of trying a little more than you have to. Like when you’re getting on a flight, when grocery shopping, or when home alone. Practice builds confidence, and it’ll be there the day you really need it.

20. Body hair (pits, chest, groin) is part of being a mammal. You’re allowed to trim it. But shaving it is asking for trouble.

21. There are international standards for distance (meters,) time (seconds,) and mass (kilos). But a 32″ waist or medium shirt size will never, ever fit the same from brand to brand.

22. If your barber says “want me to hit those eyebrows?” it’s probably not a question, and the answer is almost certainly “yes, thanks.”

23. “Accessories = Last things on, first things noticed.” So keep it under control. More than two eye-catching accessories and you’ll start to look like a one man band.

24. Floss. Listen. Say thank you. Don’t be pedantic. Get the door. Smile. Tip well. Drink plenty of water. Sleep on it. Treat others with respect and dignity. Having style is about more than just what you wear.

25. There are no rules. Only guidelines.

Proof that style doesn’t have to cost a fortune. It’s our monthly list of ten picks, each individually costing less than seventy five bucks. Got a tip on something for under $75? Send those in to joe@dappered.com.

Goodfellow & Co. Moroccan Mint & Cedar Beard Balm – $7.99

It’s beard season. This is a solid stocking stuffer, and something to make his beard smell less like… a dirty stocking. While the hair on your face is different than the hair on top of your head, gently conditioning it every once in a while is a good idea. Softens without greasing down. Smells good without being overpowering. Cheap.

Nordstrom Mercer Leather Belts – $33.17 ($49.50)

A basic dress belt that can also pull some smart-casual duty. Buckle is subdued and not some clunky thing. Three colors, on sale, and they ship and return for free since they’re from Nordstrom proper.

BR Factory Moleskin Tapered Fit Cargos – $50ish

Cargos… really? Sure. But these aren’t oversized 90’s cargos. These come in a tapered fit and are made of super-soft, winter appropriate brushed cotton moleskin. So yeah, just this once. Cargos. Maybe. I mean, shoveling is hard work. Gotta keep your snacks somewhere, right?

Worn & Wound strap changing multi-tool – $34 ($38)

A neat little gift or acquisition for oneself for the watch fans out there. Perfect for travel and miles ahead of the cheap-as-hades tools that are thrown into inexpensive watch repair kits. Has everything you need in one nifty tool: .8mm poker, 1.6mm fork, 1.4mm flat head, 1.8mm flat head. And sometimes you need two screwdrivers, so their “multi-tool splits in half transforming into two tools, one for bracing, the other for turning.” Wow that’s smart.

Todd Snyder Made in the USA Long Sleeve Slub Tees – $47.20 w/ 20EXTRA ($78)

Price is certainly a lot more than a $8 Target tee (or $5 as was the case over the weekend…) but these are for those who prefer to buy Made in the USA stuff when they can. Slub-Spun Jersey, garment-dyed, and comes with a button-through chest pocket.

Ritual Zero Proof Rum Alternative – $29.99

An early heads up for those who are thinking about doing the Dry January thing this year, as this stuff can sometimes sell out in early January. Ritual’s Rum is one of the better Zero-Poof “spirits” on the market. There’s actually a bit of spice/heat to this. Look, it’s not the real deal, and it’s certainly not navy-strength like Smith & Cross (57% ABV). But there’s a little bit of “there” in there. Not much, but more than other booze-free spirits. Shown here mixed with Brew Dr.’s “Clear Mind” Kombucha, and a squeeze of lemon. Makes a great, easy, and not overly sweet Mocktail. Ritual Rum also makes a fantastic 0% hot toddy.

Huckberry USA Made Acrylic Watch Caps – $25 (or 2 for $40)

Acrylic and not wool, but for those who have a wool allergy (or just want to save some money and still buy Made in the USA) then these could do the trick.

Charles Tyrwhitt Ocean Blue Long Sleeve Smart Jersey Polo – $44.75 ($109)

Part of their just launched End of Season sale. Versatile blue shade, super smooth mercerized cotton, and hidden under collar buttons. These polos are perfect for wearing under sportcoats, blazers, and suit jackets. But shipping is steep at CT. Try $14.95 to ship that one polo, as their goods still ship from the U.K. So, probably best for those who already have experience with these polos. Also be aware that they can shrink up in the wash depending on your facilities/whether you use the dryer, etc.

Nike Killshot 2 in Vintage Green – $67.50 ($90)

How very festive. 25% off. No code needed. Discount should happen in your cart.

James Brown’s Funky Christmas

Because by now I think we’ve all had our annual fill of Mariah and Bing.

For other Best Bets under $75 from previous months, click here.

What pieces in a guy’s wardrobe can you go cheap on without getting burned? Which items are you better off saving up for? Here’s a breakdown of what to (maybe) skimp on, and what you’re better off spending big for. As always season to taste, environment, experience, etc. These are more guidelines than actual rules. What works for someone who wears a suit and tie 5 days a week won’t work for someone who wears a suit and tie twice (or less) per year. Each can have a great sense of style, and the tools (clothes) used for each will be different.

Suits: Neither Skimp nor Spend big (stick to the middle ground)

• Spier & Mackay’s Half Canvas Slim or Contemporary Fit Core Line Suits – $448   just your 1st suit ships/returns for free, stock on basics like charcoal and navy can sometimes sell out
• Suitsupply Half Canvas “Perennial” line Suits – $599  ships/returns for free, consistent stock
• Banana Republic Italian Wool Signature Suits – $476 *when 30% off… but gotta wait for a sale

Wait, NEITHER skimp nor spend? Nothing like breaking the rules right from the start. Should you buy a $150 suit? No. Construction and fabric at that level is garbage, therefor it’ll look and feel like crap. Should you spend a ton and get a fancy $1000+ suit? For most of us, no way. Why? Because a well fitting $500 suit will look better than an ill fitting suit which cost thousands of dollars.

Know which brands provide the best bang for the buck, know which colors to buy first, and know what to ask your tailor to do to your suit(s) upon arrival. Put it all together and the end result is the mid-range being the right call for most.

Shoes: Spend on Dress Shoes and Boots. Skimp on the rest.

• Allen Edmonds Fifth Ave. Cap-toe Oxfords – $369 ($425) 
• Nike Killshot Sneakers – $95 (sometimes on sale)
• J. Crew Ludlow Goodyear Welted Cap Toe Oxfords – $248 
• Allen Edmonds Park Avenue Leather Sole Oxfords – $450 (review here)
• Grant Stone Diesel Boot in Crimson Chromexcel – $435
• Nike Air Force 1 – $115

Unless you’re a sneaker head, keep your cash for dress shoes and boots, with the exception being athletic sneakers you’re doing hard workouts in (your feet will thank you). If you’re putting together a footwear arsenal from scratch, spend on well made, recraftable shoes such as those from Allen Edmonds, and learn how to take care of them. Buy during big sales (Anniversary, Rediscover America, etc) and you’ll get a lot for your money. When you want (or need) to look your best, nice shoes can matter. In regards to boots, Follow Lt. Dan’s advice from Forest Gump: Take care of your feet. That means good boots for work and hiking. If they’re just for looking good, but they’re inspired by heritage work or hiking boots, you still might want to spend. Because cheap boots can often look and feel really cheap.

Outerwear: SPEND on Wool, Warmth, & Waterproof. Skimp on the rest.

• Suitsupply Wool Overcoats – $499
• Amazon Essentials Puffer Jacket – $40ish
• Spier 85% Merino Wool & 15% Cashmere Overcoats – $398
• J. Crew Factory Walker Quilted Vests – $98ish

Look to invest when it comes to a wool topcoat or peacoat. Cheap options can look and more importantly feel cheap. And if you live somewhere with chilly autumns and cold winters, then it’s something you may be wearing literally every single day. So investing will pay off. If you have an Army/Navy surplus store nearby you may be able to get a real surplus navy wool peacoat for a song. That’s worth looking for. Bottom line: Don’t go cheap if you live somewhere super cold and need to stay warm, and/or if you live somewhere super wet, and need to stay dry. And we’re talking about style here. If you’re some ice-climber whose life depends on their technical outerwear, then by all means, bet the farm on your gear. Better than buying the farm from hypothermia.

Blazers/Sportcoats: Spend. But try to get them on sale.

• Bonobos Unconstructed Italian Wool Blazer – $400
• J. Crew Factory Wool Blend Blazer – $270ish
• Suitsupply Tailored Fit Blazer – $399
• J. Crew Ludlow Slim-fit Blazer in English Cotton-Wool Blend – $348
• Banana Republic Factory Olive Windowpane Wool Blend Blazer – $125ish

Gone are the days of dirt cheap sportcoats often made from cotton or wool blends. Now if it’s under $100? It’s probably fully synthetic and cut in a wonky shape (read: chopped tail/long arms). So while the benefits of wearing sportcoats and blazers often are many… be prepared to spend a few bucks. Don’t worry, we’ll keep you updated on the sales front. Also, this doesn’t mean you need a closet full of sport jackets of every color and pattern. A solid navy blazer and a versatile gray sportcoat will get you exceptionally far.

Chinos: Skimp

• GAP Khakis (chinos) – $40ish
• Old Navy Rotation Chinos – $30ish
• Target Goodfellow Stretch Chinos – $30
• Bonobos Original Chinos – $99
• lululemon Performance Warpstreme Fabric ABC Trousers and 5 Pockets – $128*

For most of us there’s just not a ton of difference between a $35 pair of cotton/spandex chinos, and a $99 pair of cotton/spandex chinos. Likely exceptions would be if you’re hard to fit and have a favorite spendy brand, or *if you’re hooked on lululemon’s performance fabric and gusset equipped ABC trousers and 5-pockets.

Jeans: Spend on stretch. Skimp on regular.

• Banana Republic Slim Traveler Jeans – $130
• Amazon Essentials Slim Fit Jeans – $40ish
• Target Goodfellow Slim Fit Jeans – $36

Unless you’re seriously into the selvedge and/or raw denim thing, there are just way too many good, affordable options when it comes to decently made, timeless jeans in all cotton or cotton with a hint of stretch. If you’re after a pair of jeans that are made to be super comfortable, stretch like crazy, and move with you as lift your left leg up against a brick wall for a silly style blog photo… then consider spending on, say, BR’s slim traveler jeans. They’re spendy at full ticket, but can occasionally go on sale. And they truly are exceptional when it comes to comfort.

Polos: Skimp

• Target All in Motion Jersey Tech Polo – $20
• Old Navy Cloud 94 Soft Polo – $18ish
• GapFit Recycled Active Polo – $25ish ($49.95)
• Rhone Commuter Anti-Odor Hidden Button Down Collar Polo -$98

Polos are another item in menswear with a rich bounty of affordable, decently-constructed, well-fitting options. Yes, there are a lot of “bad” polos out there. But there are also plenty of good ones for around $20 – $45. Look for trim cuts, good feeling fabrics, breathability, and collars that don’t curl. If you do want to spend, look for polos with significant points of differentiation like merino or high quality performance fabric, button down collars for wearing with blazers, etc.

Casual Shirts: Skimp

• J. Crew Factory Flex Casual Shirts in Slim, Classic, Tall, Untucked – $35-$40ish
• UNIQLO Oxford Cloth Button Down – $39.90
• Target Goodfellow Slim Fit Long Sleeve Oxford Button-Downs – $28

Yes, there are some super nice casual shirts out there. But unless you’re Mr. Shirt who just has to have all the shirts, stick to inexpensive OCBDs (oxford cloth button downs) and patterned poplins. Because if you REALLY need to be wearing a nice shirt? Wear a dress shirt. Speaking of dress shirts…

Dress Shirts: Middle-ground. But spend on a nice white shirt if you’d like.

• The Tie Bar Pinpoint Dress Shirt – $65
• Spier & Mackay White Dress Shirt – $65
• Nordstrom Trim Fit Dress Shirt – $79.50 
• Banana Republic Slim Wrinkle Resistant Dress Shirts – $80
• Ledbury MTO White Fine Twill Mid Spread Collar Dress Shirt – $135 (shown above)

There are a lot of good dress shirts in the $40 – $80 price range. If you want to splurge on a reallllly nice dress shirt, consider spending that cash on a classic, crisp white dress shirt. Because you’ll use it by far the most.

Whatever you do, don’t go super cheap, and don’t accumulate patterns and colors you’ll rarely wear. Hitting the bargain bin for weird colors & patterns will have you looking like a 1970s news anchor. And chances are they’ll be made from awful feeling, scratchy material. A dress shirt is a foundational piece that supports the rest of your outfit (suit, sportcoat, sweater/trousers/etc.) Stick with white or light blue and make sure it fits and feels great.

Sweaters: Make ’em Merino, which is the middle ground.

• J. Crew Merino Wool V-neck Sweaters – $70ish
• UNIQLO Merino Crew Neck Sweaters – $39.90
• Banana Republic Merino Sweaters – $80

Don’t go with cheap, stuffy cotton. Very few of us feel the desire to shell out for cashmere. There is a perfect middle ground material that makes amazing, breathable, temperature regulating sweaters: merino wool. Go with those. Usually a merino v-neck or crewneck will land somewhere in the $40 – $70 range, depending on the brand, time of year, and sales. If you do want to spend some serious money, consider a big “house sweater” shawl collar cardigan. They’re comfortable, versatile, and while often expensive, something you’ll wear a ton and also enjoy.

Watches: Skimp first. Spend later IF you want. Just don’t expect anyone to care.

• Timex Weekender 38mm Watch – $40ish
• Invicta Pro Diver 1953 Automatic – $128
• Orient Ray II Automatic – $180ish
• Orient Bambino 38mm – $260
• Seiko 5 Sports Dive Style Automatic – $325
• Dan Henry 1937 Dress Chronograph – $290
• Baltic Aquascaphe Automatic – $660ish
• Hamilton Murph 38mm – $945 
• Christopher Ward C60 Trident Pro 300 – $1145

We all rent before we buy (if we get to buy at all anymore). And weirdly that applies for watches. We all spend time and money figuring out what works for us. What diameter do you prefer… 38mm? 40mm? 42mm? What about style? Dive watch? Vintage? Chronograph? Something dead simple? It might be worth skimping a bit while you figure that out. But if you know, like REALLY know what you want, then finding one watch that wears well with everything in your wardrobe could be worth a serious splurge. It might turn out to be an heirloom or even increase in value over time. But don’t count on it. Also be warned that wearing an expensive, conspicuous watch can make you a target for robbery. So yeah. There’s that too.

Ties: Skimp

• The Tie Bar Grenalux Navy Tie – $28
• The Tie Bar Pointed Tip Knit Ties – $28
• Kent Wang Navy Grenadine Ties – $75 (in case you want a REALLY nice tie)

The Tie Bar essentially eliminated the world of high-priced ties. Yes they deliver for the (super affordable!) price tag. But do know that you can actually feel the difference (in your hands, as well how easy it ties/drapes) between a cheap tie and a really nice tie. Still though. Skimp here, unless your job requires super sharp suit and tie combos. Maybe spend on one wheelhouse, really nice tie, like a navy grenadine, and then cheap out on the rest. Thrift stores can also be a great place to source extremely well made, vintage ties.

Sunglasses: Skimp

• Carfia Polarized Men’s Sunglasses – $35
• WMP Sunglasses – $45
• Walden Woods Sunglasses – $125

We’re not talking about gas-station junk shades here. We ARE talking about saving a ton of money on well made sunglasses by shopping smart. The eyewear industry is absurd. Yet retailers like Nordstrom Rack offer designer shades at deep discount if you’re patient, and there are some decent bargain brands out there that look and feel surprisingly good.

Belts: Skimp smartly. Spend if you’d like.

• Made in the USA Flint & Tinder  365 belt – $85
• GAP Leather Belts – $35ish
• Nordstrom Marco Burnished Leather Belts – $79.50

Belts are like shoes. The quality of the leather can really matter. And while there are some cheap belts out there that do deliver at a very reasonable price (the GAP belt comes to mind)… you don’t want something that looks like plastic or flakes and falls to pieces with use.

Socks and Underwear: SPEND

• Saxx Quest Quick Dry Mesh Boxer Briefs – $34
• Huckberry’s PROOF 72-Hour Boxer Briefs – $45
• Ex Officio Give-n-Go Performance Briefs – $24
• Darn Tough Merino Blend The Standard Socks – $27

Yes really. Spend. Spend on the boring stuff. The stuff you used to HATE getting as gifts around the holidays or for your birthday. But once you realize how amazing wicking, breathing merino wool or performance fabric underwear and socks are, you’ll never go back to cheap cotton stuff. A house is only as good as its foundation. So what’s the point of being well dressed if your underwear and socks are anything less than absurdly comfortable?

Grooming stuff: Skimp

• Layrite Hair Products – $24.50
• Cetaphil Gentle Facial Cleanser – $14
• Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream – $16ish
• Jack Black Pure Clean Daily Facial Cleanser – $13

For under $40 (or much less) there are plenty creams, serums, and other assorted goops that can last a good while. Also, if you want your skin (and hair) to look healthier without the goo? Get more sleep. Drink more water. Eat smart. Moisturize. Use sunscreen. That’s really about all you need to do. The grooming industry is far to often filled with promises of quick and easy fixes which prey upon our insecurities.

Haircuts: Spend, on schedule

Your barber is like your tailor. Find one you communicate well with, develop a relationship, and appreciate their work. Tip well and get on a consistent schedule. See them every 3-4 weeks for a trim. Why? Because getting a a haircut every 6 weeks (or more) will leave you with a haircut that looks too short for two weeks, then just right for two weeks, then too long for the last two weeks. Get a trim every few weeks and your hair’s length will always look just right. If you shave your head (by necessity or choice), invest in good equipment and spend 10 minutes twice a week to keep it tight.

Fitness & Wellness: Whatever it takes.

“Protect the asset.” The asset is you. You’re more than a clothes rack. It doesn’t matter if all you need is a notebook for journaling and a cheap yoga mat, or you’ve discovered that you truly are motivated by a spendy piece of workout equipment and a by-the-hour personal trainer. Find out what works for you (and of course what works within your budget,) and then invest the time. That’s what matters. The time.

Want more resources like this? Head here for our playbook (a collection of what we hope is our best advice), and here for the Dappered Essentials shop.  

What are you going to wear? Sometimes it’s good to look at a few suggestions then add your own tweaks and ideas. That’s what these are for. We’re in the full swing of hot weather and grilling season. Outdoor barbecues are a summertime staple, but being dressed in the wrong clothing can turn a potentially good time into an uncomfortable sweat-fest of epic proportions. Here’s a way to stay cool AND look good, so you can enjoy the moment rather than waiting for it to be over. 

The Shirt: Bonobos Jersey Riviera Shirt in White Daisy Fields – $49 ($79). One of their knit options, instead of the usual woven fabric. So it should feel just like you’re wearing a t-shirt. If you’d prefer a tech fabric, Bonobos does offer the Riviera in that option, but not in the same print and they ask a little more for it. Some of us are fine in cotton on hot days, some of us are not. Make the choice that’s right for you.

The Sunglasses: Carfia Polarized Men’s Sunglasses – $25.99 ($35). We’ve got a best sunglasses under $100 round up in the works, and these are surprisingly great. For around $25, frankly, they’re extraordinary. Nicely weighted acetate frames, polarized lenses, no silly/obnoxious visible branding, and at 53mm they should fit most guys just fine. That and it can be weirdly difficult to find tortoise frames with gray lenses. Usually the lenses are brown on tortoise frames. There’s something a little more “luxe” looking with that gray lens + tortoise combo.

The Watch: Timex Expedition Sierra 40mm – $89. Pretty sure this Expedition Model or some highly similar incarnation of such has been around for years. But they sure nailed the colors this time. Orange seconds hand, EXPEDITION at six o’clock, and 12 o’clock indice. Brass case. Equipped with Indiglo. The matte case and hardware on the strap is pretty darn perfect too.

The Shorts: Nordstrom Coolmax Stretch Shorts – $39.90 ($59.50). Clocking in at 8″, these are on the shorter, but not the shortest side. Chino style shorts in a fabric blend made to wick sweat and dry quick.

The Belt: Goodfellow & Co Beige Striped Web Belt – $19.99. Going with a fabric belt here for a lighter feel. This particular offering from Target is reversible, with a robin’s egg blue being the option on the other side. It’s a cheap belt from Target, so who knows how long you’ll have it. But if it really sees only warm weather use, it could last a while depending on where you live.

The Socks: Bombas No-Show Wool Blend Socks – $15. We’ve been featuring Bombas more in the past year for good reason. They do socks, and they do socks well. And as shown in this no-show sock roundup Ryan did, they are comfortable, and actually stay on your heel.

The Shoes: SeaVees Darby Sneaker – $88. Twill canvas sneakers make sense when the temperature is up there. Leather or heavily cushioned sneaks can get too warm. Plus, these are an homage to their heritage (the SeaVees designed in the 1960’s based on 1950’s footwear), and they just look cool.

The Sunscreen: Taylor Stitch The Ball Cap – $38 (optional) & Oars + Alps Hydrating SPF 50 Sunscreen Spray – $15.19. A quick and easy way to protect your head and face? A ball cap. But hats trap heat, so no worries if that’s not your thing. There are plenty of facial sunscreens out there (here’s one often used at the Dappered offices). Truth be told, we’ve never used the Oars + Alps spray sunscreen before, but it has a lot of high reviews, with many comments about not burning on sunny vacations. Plus, it’s not greasy.

The Sweat Mopper: OHSAY Made in the USA Bandana 3 Pack – $13.72. Assuming “OHSAY” is a play on “Oh say can you see…”, because these bandanas are USA made by a vet owned company. Having a bandana or handkerchief on hand to mop your sweaty brow and neck can keep you cooler, and keep you looking cooler.

The Cool Down: Strainge Beast Watermelon, Sea Salt, Lime, & Mint Hard Kombucha. Full disclosure, haven’t tried it, but it sounds delicious. If you’re looking to give your gut a break from the gluten glut that is so easy to consume, a hard kombucha is a nice alternative to beer. Brewed by Sierra Nevada, this particular booch is 4% ABV, a nice level of alcohol to catch a buzz but not become too sloppy too fast. Only 4 grams of sugar too.

Nordstrom: 15% off most Kiehl’s grooming products

BIG IMPORTANT UPDATE

Kiehl’s is actually running 25% off for a friends and family deal direct through their site, through tomorrow 4/1. Didn’t see that coming. Huge thanks to Billy B. for the tip here. Free shipping at Kiehl’s won’t kick in until $50 though, so, if you’re getting something less expensive, Nordstrom might end up being the better source. Just depends. Shipping under $50 at Kiehl’s will run you $7. Math and all that. Now, back to the original post….

Skincare. Look, there’s a LOT of stuff on the market that’s overpriced, and it’s pretty easy to fall down a rabbit hole of applying hyper expensive goops and oils to your skin in an attempt to find some nonexistent fountain of youth.

Kiehl’s is a rare exception in the grooming game. Exceptionally well reviewed, relatively reasonably priced, and should help you age with some level of grace (the instagram crowd pursuing something like a “permanent filter” to their skin isn’t aging with grace… they look perpetually waxy, stretched, and in some relentless state of drunken soft focus. Not to mention their noses appear to be recessing into their skulls, all while their lips explode outward in an attempt to one day pull them over their heads like Sesame Street’s “yip yips” do when they get frightened)

• Facial Fuel Energizing Moisture Treatment for Men – $23.80 – $35.70 ($28 – $42) 2.5 – 6.8 oz
• Ultimate Man Body Scrub Soap – $12.75 ($15)
• Midnight Recovery Eye Cream – $34 ($40)
• Facial Fuel for Men Set – $46.75 ($55)
• Ultra Facial Cream – $18.70 – $57.80 ($22 – $68) 0.95 – 6oz 
• Body Fuel All-in-One Energizing & Conditioning Wash – $17 – $45.90 ($20 – $54) 8.4oz – 1 L
• Facial Fuel Energizing Face Wash – $8.50 – $50.15 ($10 – $59) 8.4oz – 1 L

The 15% off is pretty good. Sales are few and far between on Kiehl’s. And the discount is especially good because if you just wanna try one or two things (that’s how most of us do it when trying some new grooming stuff), it’ll still ship for free. Thus the magic of Nordstrom. Free shipping and free returns on everything.

Various size options available on a lot of this stuff. But there’s also larger/bulk buy levels too, if you’re already a Kiehl’s fan and want to stock up.

That’s all.

Carry on.

Dressing well in college is a fine line to walk. It’s very, very easy to drift over into that “trying too hard” territory. Especially when most of your peers are wearing pajama pants to class. But that doesn’t mean you have to wear sweats for four years. Here’s a few ways to dress a bit better and increase your style, while pursuing your degree, without straying too far from the campus norm.

Grow up your T-Shirt game.

• Target All in Motion Performance Fabric Pocket Tees – $15
• Target Goodfellow & Co Standard Fit T-Shirt – $8
• Amazon Goodthreads Short-Sleeve Crewneck Cotton T-Shirt – $15
• J. Crew Garment-dyed Slub Cotton T-shirt – $30ish
• Made in the USA StringKing Custom Fit Poly/Tencel 155 Pocket Tee – $39.99

Stick to the basics and keep any graphics/logos subtle. Solids and stripes are classy. Logos and clever slogans are not. Nobody ever saw a “funny” t-shirt and thought “now THAT is a guy I want to hire/buy a beer/get in bed with.” Even if your shirt isn’t trying to be funny, busy graphics and oversized branding can look tacky.

Keep up on your grooming, but don’t go over the top.

• Target Goodfellow & Co. Grooming Goods (cheap)
• Jack Black Grooming Products (mid priced to spendy)
• Kiehl’s Grooming Products (mid priced to spendy) 

Dudes seem to go one of two ways once they move out of their parents house and into a dorm or close-to-campus apartment. They either become enormous slobs, or, they wear enough scent and grease to scare anyone away with functioning olfactory receptors. Land somewhere in between.

Wear slim (but not “bro tight”) solid or basic patterned button downs, sweaters, & polos.

• Target Goodfellow Slim Fit Stretch Poplin Button-Down Shirt – $28 
• GAP Poplin Button Downs – $30ish
• J.Crew Merino Wool V-Neck Sweater – $64.50
• UNIQLO Merino V-Neck Cardigan – $49.90
• UNIQLO Extra Fine Merino Sweaters – $39.90
• Target All In Motion Jersey Polo – $20
• Rhone Delta Pique Hidden Button Down Collar Polo – $88

Clothes should skim your frame. Not cling to it. Not hang off it and billow in the breeze. Shoulder seams should land about where your arm meets your shoulder. Short sleeves should go about halfway down your bicep, and not be tucked up in your arm pit. And skip the flashy colors and patterns made to be noticed in a nightclub. It’s just an obvious cry for attention.

Rely on clean, white leather sneakers.

• Stan Smith White Leather Sneakers – $100
• J. Crew Leather Court Sneakers – $100ish 
• lululemon Cityverse Sneakers – $138 (review here)

You can waste a ton of money on casual shoes that look awful. Or, you can stick with clean, simple, white leather sneakers that’ll go with everything. Shoe trends, especially super-casual/sneaker shoe trends, come and go pretty quick, but clean white sneakers seem to always be acceptable. The Stan Smith is the epitome of this kind of shoe. They won’t let you down. Ever.

Break your baseball cap addiction.

I have personal experience with this struggle. I was one of you. I still am some days. There are millions (not an exaggeration) of young men out there who won’t let anyone see them without a ballcap on because they think they have bad hair or their head looks funny or who knows what insecurity is eating them up inside.

But the hat, somehow to them, covers it up. Yet it’s not a fix. And there will come a time (many times) when you just can’t wear a hat. Maybe it’s a wedding or a job interview or you’ve got a professor who doesn’t allow it in their lecture hall. And you’re gonna feel super uncomfortable without your security blanket on your head, and it’ll show.

Breaking the baseball hat addiction is one of the easiest ways for a guy in his 20s to upgrade his style, yet it’s also surprisingly difficult to do. It takes some time away from hats, but if you stick with it, I promise you will get used to seeing your hair or your head or whatever and you’ll be okay with it. Perhaps more than okay with it. And then one of those times where hats aren’t allowed will come along and… and it’ll be okay. And you won’t feel weird. And you’ll be glad you beat the addiction. I believe in you. You can do this.

Wear a watch. Keep the phone tucked away as much as possible.

• Casio MDV106-1AV Dive Watch – $50ish (shown above on an after market strap. review here)
• Timex Leather Strap Weekender Chrono – $69
• Invicta 1953 – $130 (review here)

Especially keep that phone in your pocket and off the table when on dates. Everyone else has their nose in their phone. It pays to keep your chin up and your eyes looking about. Wearing a watch means you’re less likely to whip that phone out and check the time. Checking the time only leads to checking Facebook. And Twitter. And Instagram. And before you know it, you’re a mindless zombie walking around addicted to the dopamine rush that plastic and glass rectangle in your pocket keeps hitting you with.

Pick your spots with athleisure, and know how to smarten it up.

• adidas Men’s Tiro Pants – $50
• Old Navy Tapered Drawstring-Waist Joggers – $20ish
• Target Goodfellow Tech Joggers – $35
• Lululemon Down for It All Hooded Jacket – $228

No one is saying you have to burn your collection of hoodies and joggers. But wearing them to a job interview, to meet your significant others parents, or to any place/event where you’d kinda like to impress someone? It’s not a great idea. There are ways to smarten up athleisure, but for some occasions, it’s best to leave the sweats in the drawer.

Keep your place relatively clean & organized.

It doesn’t have to look like Martha Stewart lives there, but c’mon guys. Dust. Vacuum every once in a while. And for the wind and the rain, clean your bathroom every now and then.

Own a decent, tailored suit, & almost never wear it.

• Spier and Mackay Red Label Suits in Charcoal, Gray, or Navy – $298
• Suitsupply Perennial Line in Charcoal, Gray, or Navy – $499

Strange advice, right? There aren’t a lot of reasons in college to wear a suit. Wear one on a date and boy, that’s almost certainly overkill. But heading to a wedding, a job interview, or (heaven forbid) a funeral? You’ll absolutely need one. Charcoal or Navy should be your first suit purchase. And it doesn’t have to be pricey at this point if you’re not wearing it all that often. Make it wool with a breathable lining (bemberg or acetate, not scratchy all polyester). And beware overly trendy cuts that come with super cheap suits (like Uniqlo or Target). A slightly shorter tail or slimmer lapels? Fine. But skip the hyper-chopped tails and razor thin lapels. You won’t wear your suit much. But when you need it, you’ll be glad you’ve got one that fits well.

Have the same person cut your hair, each time.

Doesn’t have to be someplace fancy and expensive, but do use the same person each time. You’ll get to know them, they’ll get to know you. And when it comes to avoiding bad haircuts, consistency is key. So is communication. Don’t go to someone that doesn’t listen, hacks up your head, or the results have your pals doing a double take at your hair. Find someone good. Stick with that someone. Make that someone the person you always go to. 

Don’t live your entire life on social media.

This is a hard ask for a lot of people under the age of, well, dead. Less is more when it comes to social media. Style is often sexy. And there’s nothing sexy about someone who posts every thought, outfit, and travel update to social media. Be at least a little mysterious, and get off the social networks every so often. Or, a lot.

Stick to dark wash, slim but not tight, hole free jeans.

• Target Goodfellow Slim Fit Jeans – $36
• Amazon Essentials Comfort Stretch Slim Fit Jean – $40
• Banana Republic Slim Dark Rinse Japanese Traveler Jean – $130

Putting on some dark wash jeans, maybe with some stretch woven in, is hardly a big ask. They look great too.

Wear classic, simple sunglasses in tortoiseshell or black.

• Carfia Polarized Men’s Sunglasses – $25.99
• J. Crew Men’s Dock Sunglasses – $79.50
• Huckberry Weekenders – $45
• Target Goodfellow Sunglasses – $15
• Kirkland Wayfarers – $25 – $30 (Costco in-store only, if they’re carrying them at present)

Skip the trendy stuff and chunky sport shades. These are classy classics (no, that’s not redundant). They’ll go with everything. Ray Bans are awfully nice, but there are plenty of super-cheap alternatives that deliver the same look.

Own a classy mac jacket, wool topcoat, or peacoat

• BR Factory Water-Resistant Mac Jacket – $100ish
• UNIQLO: 90% Wool / 10% Cashmere Topcoats – $149.90 (waiting for 2024 release)
• J. Crew Dock Peacoat – $200ish (waiting for 2024 release)

Mac Jackets are usually lighter weight, but can be layered under as long as it’s not too bitter cold. And they’re great for spring and fall. Topcoats are incredibly good looking, but are limited to the colder months. Bottom line: Get something you’ll wear all the time, with everything. From suits to sweats (as shown above). Puffers are fine, but they’re inherently casual. There will come a time when you’ll need something to go over an outfit that’s a bit more dressed up. Hard to do that with a puffer.

Carry a minimalist backpack, or, a smart casual style briefcase with a shoulder strap.

• (via Amazon) NEWHEY Waxed Canvas Messenger Bag – $56
• Boconi Slim Zipster Laptop Briefcase – $120 ($298)
• TIMBUK2 Authority Backpack -$159
• Solo New York Backpack Briefcase – $44

Backpacks can be unavoidable if you’re spending almost all day running from class, to your job, to your next class, etc. And especially if your main mode of transportation is a bicycle. No shame there. Just try and keep it clean, smart, and minimalist looking, and less like you’re about to head up K2. Meanwhile, if you prefer a briefcase, stick with a canvas or nylon exterior, or keep it pretty casual if it’s leather. Hauling a luxury leather attache into your Western Civ class is gonna look pretty damn pretentious.

Know how to tie a neat, tidy, 4-in-hand necktie knot.

No sloppy, bulky knots that drift half an inch away from your collar to expose the button. The four in hand is easy to tie and terrific looking. Practice till you get it right. One day it’ll come in handy. Want to move onto a half-windsor or something else later on? Fine. That’s up to you. Just get the four in hand down first.

Give it a rest with the binge drinking.

College is a land of opportunity. And it’s just four, short years. But so many spend those four years drinking or smoking their potential away, and get lost in the predictable hazy binge of hedonistic now-ness. If you can hold off, just a little, and SOMETIMES (or more) turn down the beer or weed in favor of focusing, then that focus and attention will pay huge dividends for decades to come. It gets better after college. That is, if you don’t allow your potential to go down the crapper with the jager and pizza you just threw up all over yourself.

Wash your sheets regularly.

The name of my first roommate in college was Andrew. Andrew was a pretty cool guy, but keeping his side of the dorm room clean wasn’t really a priority. And that extended to his bedding. Rarely was his bed made (I couldn’t care less about that) and he never changed his sheets. Like, ever. I found this out on the last day before break when he realized, just before he stripped his bed, that he hadn’t washed his sheets that year. At all. He said as much, and then ripped the covers back. The collection of dead skin cells and leg hair at the foot of his bed was so disgusting that he actually gagged upon seeing that nightmare. Wash your sheets once every other week. At least. More if you’ve been sick (especially the pillow case).

Acquire a casual, knit or chino sportcoat (& use sparingly).

• Faherty Brand Inlet Knit Blazer – $198
• UNIQLO Airsense Blazer (wool like) – $79.90
• Nordstrom Lyocell/Cotton Sportscoat – $149.50 ($299)
• J. Crew Factory Knit 97% cotton/3% poly Blazer – $156.73 ($208.50) grey or blue

A fuddy-duddy, gold buttoned, hard shouldered blue blazer is gonna look way out of place on a college campus. But a more casual option, with subtle buttons and a trim cut? You can absolutely wear one of those depending on the circumstances. Wear it with a collared shirt and dark wash jeans on a date. Wear it over a t-shirt to class when you’re out of clean laundry. There’s plenty of ways to wear one of these anything but stuffy jackets.

Grocery Shop/Watch what you eat in the dining hall.

If you’re living off campus, get to the grocery store with some regularity. You’ll save money in the long run, and you’ll keep the pounds off (assuming you shop with some sort of healthy choices in mind). Learn to cook a few simple dishes. If you’re in a dorm and stuck with the dining hall? Keep a food journal and avoid the junk. That Freshman 15 (or 25) can sneak up on you real quick.

Good luck to all of you pursuing higher education. And above all else, don’t fall into the trap that is thinking you’re currently, at college, living “the best time of your life.” 

This post originally ran in 2018 but has since been updated with current product suggestions.

About the Author: Jason P. spends his days working in the creative marketing department of a big telecom company. He also does a bit of real estate investing on the side. He believes in curating a timeless, classic wardrobe with subtle modern touches for today. He and his wife love hiking with their dog and shopping at local small businesses and antique stores when they travel. Jason is a practitioner of muay thai and traditional boxing, and his favorite drink is a hoppy New England IPA.

Tis the season. And by now you’ve probably been walloped over the head by 82,000 gift guides. So what’s a few more? Head here for the 2020 archive. Today? This one’s for the rugged types. The guys who like to spend time outdoors, but also knows a thing or two when it comes to style. So pull on your (or his) tactleneck, and let’s get to it…

Goodfellow & Co. Moroccan Mint & Cedar Beard Balm – $7.99

A solid stocking stuffer, and something to make his beard smell less like… a stocking. While the hair on your face is different than the hair on top of your head, gently conditioning it every once in a while is a good idea. A little beard balm will help you/him avoid looking like your face has been covered in fur farmed from around a yeti’s private parts. Softens without greasing down. Smells good without being over powering. Cheap.

Kuhl Silencr Rogue pant – $85

Your outdoorsman deserves a good-looking functional pair of hiking pants. and these are a personal favorite. They don’t scream OUTDOORS!, but function as such while still looking nicely tapered and polished enough for running errands after your descent. Not the warmest pair of hiking pants, so save these for Spring/Summer/Fall.

FormFunctionForm Spoor Key Fob – $98

Lots of options in one fob. “Squirt” PS4 Leatherman multi tool. Maratac “split pea” lighter. Horween leather wraps it all up into one easy, attractive, portable little package. Great everyday carry items keep weight to a minimum, but functionality high. This is one of those splurge gifts – nobody needs this, but it makes the receiver’s life much easier. And couldn’t we all use a little more ease nowadays?

Made in the USA Flint & Tinder WOOL Lined Waxed Trucker – $298

They made one lined in wool? Excellent. The original, with its cotton flannel lining is plenty toasty too, but the wool lined option is a step above for those who live in particularly cold climates. Construction and quality are sublime, this will likely become the favorite jacket in your giftee’s (or your own…) closet.

Seiko SKX 007 – $350 or 009 Automatic – $300

Get ’em while you still can, because Seiko seems to be retiring the tried and true, tough, great looking, 007 and 009 SKX watches. Tough as nails. 200m water resistance. Dependable automatic movement. A true tool watch.

Ugg Olsen Slipper – $110

Absolutely love these things. I shall sing their praises until you all buy a pair. Can be hard to find around this time of year (it is slipper-giving-season afterall) but worth searching out if you can find some. After a long day for thy rugged man, give him something cozy to slip his tired feet into and kick up by the fire with a glass of his favorite adult beverage. Speaking of which…

An Upgraded Version of his Favorite Booze (price varies)

Does he like Canadian Whiskey? Get him Crown XO. Does he like Irish? Get Jameson Gold Reserve. Bourbon guy? Get him this year’s Maker’s Mark limited edition wood finishing release. The scientists at Maker’s are experimenting with different combinations of staves in the barrel and the effects on flavor. Now in the 2nd year of this project, this release is very limited, while still clocking in at an appropriate $60. My hunch is that as the hype catches up, so will the price. Act now, and grab a bottle for now and a bottle to stash.

Hamilton Mechanical Khaki Field – $495

Full review here. Nobody quite does an affordable military-inspired automatic like Hamilton. Field style, field functionality. For $500 (and available for less when on sale), you get an in-house movement with 80 hour power reserve and Super-LumiNova. If you’re adorned in rugged style more often than not, this might be the only watch you ever need.

Banana Republic Cable Knit Sweater – $49.25 ($98.50)

Sophisticated but still masculine. That’s fisherman’s sweaters for you. A top built for warmth at sea has now turned into a masculine virtue signal, albeit less salty. Banana Republic knows how to make a quality sweater at a great price, and this cableknit is no different.

Benchmade Griptilian S30V – $125

Made in the USA, the Griptilian is a bit of a legend in EDC knives. This blacked-out version oozes tactical function, with a corrosion-resistant coating on the S30V (read: very good for the $) steel blade and a fiberglass-reinforced nylon handle to keep it light in the pocket. A clever locking mechanism not only keeps the user safe when cutting, but also makes flicking open the blade a breeze – and truly, a delight.

Edwin Jagger Double Edge Safety Razor – $44

The Edwin Jagger safety razor is a beauty, and offers a great shave. For about $50, you get a well-built razor worthy of displaying on your bathroom counter. One of the better entry-level safety razors, it shows that getting a good shave doesn’t require shelling out a ton of cash. This is a great one for the guy who’s taken an interest in improving his grooming routine.

Filson Mackinaw Wool Vest – $150

Vests are hugely underrated. For everything from chopping wood to walking a 55 pound dog with the musculature of a pitbull and the never-stop energy of a border collie, freedom of movement while maintaining warmth is crucial. And vests give you that. That, and if you start working up a bit of a sweat, your pits can breathe, while your core stays warm. Made in the USA, and all kinds of hard-working heritage style.

Yeti Tundra 45 – $300

In these #unprecedentedtimes, a great getaway is a retreat to a cabin in the woods. A proper cooler is a quintessential piece for an outdoor trip, and there is none finer than the Yeti Tundra. It is an absurd purchase – nobody needs a $300+ cooler. That’s exactly why this makes an excellent gift; and once you start to use it, you start to understand the cult-like following. It’s supremely functional, but the draw is much more than that. I can’t eloquently explain it – but the camper on your list will be wildly appreciative.

Opinel No8 Knife – $15 

If the Benchmade is too pricey, but you still want to get your man a daily-use knife, Opinel has you covered. Once displayed along with a Rolex and a Porsche 911 in a museum exhibit titled: “The 100 Most Beautiful Products in the World.” Also incredibly useful. Stainless steel blade measures 3.25″. The locking collar (just spin it to keep the blade in place) is an extremely well designed, classic safety feature, though it’s not suited for heavy use. This is a nice box cutter that looks great, too.

The Standard Memorandum Journal + Leather Cover – $39

There is a beauty to note taking & journaling, and even more so when it happens in a beautiful notebook. A place to share thoughts with yourself, and record memories is vital to your well-being and, frankly, your sanity. The 2020 memorandum was featured in last year’s roundup of rugged guy picks, and for good reason. Beautiful, functional, and just downright special year after year. Little items like this, when upgraded properly, are a phenomenal gift.

Filson Original Briefcase – $230 – $300

A gift-worthy canvas bag. Made in the USA from sturdy cotton canvas and bridle leather accents. This is classic, timeless style.

Nordstrom 100% Cashmere Cap – $69.50

For the guy who spends a lot of time outdoors in the winter hiking, chopping wood, doing household chores, or anything else, he will surely appreciate a cashmere cap. Soft and silky with none of the itch that comes with “standard” lambswool.  And because it’s Nordstrom, it ships and returns for free too.

AmazonBasics Duffle Bag – $50ish

Cotton & poly canvas with leather trim. Made by Amazon’s AmazonBasics label, of all brands. Wild times. Uncle Jeff’s internet emporium seemingly offers everything, and this is a surprising offering. For $50ish, Amazon ships (in two days!) a heritage-styled weekender with enough storage for a men’s weekend when life is back to normal. Full review here.

Duluth Pack Canvas Coffee Sleeve – $10

Better than your average coozie. Unique, with that artisan crafted feel. Because it is. An excellent stocking stuffer for the caffeinated man on your list.

Give’r 4 Season Glove w/ Wax Coating  – $135

Spendy! But you can pick up a flaming log with them. Maybe… don’t make a habit of that. But it’s nice to know that if you ever needed to, you could!

O’Keeffe’s Working Hands Hand Cream – $7.99

For when the gloves come off. Because this stuff is the real deal, while most other hand creams are pretenders. It works. Period. And if he’s the type who has calluses and scraped up knuckles and split thumbs (the worst) in the winter, yet STILL knows how to look sharp, then this’ll help him from bleeding all over the place when buttoning up his favorite crisp white dress shirt.

Proof Merino 72-Hour Henley – $98

Tell him the price after he wears it. Because $98 is a crazy splurge, until you wear one, and compare them to cheap henleys. It’s strong but it breathes. It dries quick. And it has natural anti-stink properties. They call these things “72-hour” because you can wear ’em for 3 days without washing, and not worry that you smell like a dumpster. Slim but not crazy tight fit. Snap henley placket. Four colors to pick from. Just enough nylon in the blend to make them machine washable (just lay flat to dry). Merino wool is THE do-it-all fabric of the outdoors.

Leatherhead Old Fashioned Leather Sporting Goods – $130 – $350

Sporrrrrts. These are the guys who make “The Handsome Dan” football. What’s his favorite sport? Cool. Get that ball. Extra points if you actually go out and use it with him every once in a while, instead of just letting it sit on a shelf. Although they are basically works of art. Shelf is good too. But yeah. Use it. The medicine balls are particularly rad. And pricey.

Saddleback Toiletry Bag – $189

This is simultaneously an absolutely stupid gift, and also the perfect gift. Expensive? Yes. Best. Dopp Kit. Ever? Probably. Like everything else that Saddleback makes, it comes with a 100 year warranty. Love how it’s a “big mouth” style with a hinged top so you’re not digging around in the depths of some dark, zippered dopp for whatever you need. That can get dangerous when packing razor blades. Lets all the light in. Full review here.

Saddleback Slim Leather Briefcase – $529

More Saddleback. For the handsomely rugged office worker, even if it’s a home office nowadays, Saddleback makes an unfathomably beautiful briefcase. Looks good in every situation you may throw at it. For the most special man on your list – husband, dad, brother, whomever tops it. This is a gift he will CHERISH, and likely pass down to the next young man in his life. This is an heirloom briefcase.

WP Standard Military Duffel – $338.30 ($398)

When is a gym bag more than a gym bag? When it’s this downright gorgeous. Lots of fellas standout in the gym for the wrong reason – grunting, roid rage, posing in skin tight joggers and “dad hats.” This is for the gym rat who gets in, does his work, and gets out. More of a 1980’s Rocky Balboa smashing the heavy bag vibe than today’s modern Instagram all-show-no-go look. I digress. The duffel has that slightly unusual, but classic, top loading design. Great for getting your athletic gear to and from your chosen location to sweat buckets – even if that’s just your garage for the time being. Currently 15% off during WP Standard’s sitewide holiday sale.

Allen Edmonds Higgins Mill Boot with Dainite Rubber Sole – $311 ($445)

Super versatile, made in the USA boots with studded Dainite rubber sole for traction. You would be hard pressed to find a better heritage-inspired pair of workwear Americana for your feet. Hard-working feet deserve hard-working boots. I’ve worn my  pair through 3 falls and winters now, and they still look fantastic. This is a pair that gets better with age as the Horween leather and cork footbed shapes to your foot to create a nearly 1:1 fit. Get this for the guy who puts in the extra effort, always.

Allen Edmonds Dalton Boot w/ Dainite Rubber Sole – $332 ($475)

And now, the legendary wingtip dress boot from Allen Edmonds. Same excellent construction, in a fancier form. Available with or without Dainite soles for grip, although with it being the slick season, the Dainite is recommended. The walnut shade is *chef’s kiss*. Currently 30% off as part of their holiday sale.

Nitecore P12 Flashlight – $44

Every man needs a bright, small flashlight. They’re great for tossing in a hiking backpack (look for one with an SOS setting), toolbox, car, first-aid kit, or just keeping on your person throughout the day. I carry a version of this Nitecore light on me, and it has pumped out reliably bright light for years. Comes with the aforementioned SOS setting, as well as a bright strobe setting.

Christopher Ward C60 Trident Pro 600 – $845

The priciest item on the list, for the best man on your nice list. Christopher Ward has been making some REALLY nice (and pricey) timepieces lately, but their wheelhouse Trident diver checks all the right boxes, at a proper price. Swiss-made Sellita SW2000-1 movement, ceramic bezel, 600m water resistance, C1 Super-LumiNova (BRIGHT). These have been creeping up in price lately, too, so strike now before these hit four digits. This version with a steel bracelet will hit you for $965. Thankfully, the hybrid rubber/Cordura strap is more of the rugged style. Designed in the UK and built in Switzerland, down the street from Omega. Smart, sharp British styling with Swiss mechanics. An excellent pairing.

Looking for more gift guides? Here’s more of our gift guides for this year:

• Gifts for the guy who likes watches
• Gifts for the well dressed Dad
• Gifts for the guy who likes to wear suits
• Gifts for the guy who really likes shoes
• Gifts for her

Nordstrom: 15% off Jack Black and Kiehl’s Grooming Products

Don’t know about you guys, but some of us have put our epidermis through the cortisol and environmental cheese grater the last few months. Between environmental factors, some super-fun-stress-times, and the daily bombardment of horror scroll via our dopamine delivery devices (*cough* your phone)… some of us are starting to look like we’ve been smoking unfiltered cigarettes since Brian Dunkleman was co-hosting American Idol.

What the f…ront door is going on here. The early aughts. Wow.

• Jack Black Clean & Cool Body Basics Set – $45.90 ($54)
• Kiehl’s Jumbo (33.8 oz) Amino Acid Conditioner – $50.15 ($59)
• Kiehl’s Jumbo (33.8 oz) Body Fuel All-in-One Energizing Wash – $45.90 ($54)
• Kiehl’s Facial Fuel for Men Set – $46.75 ($55)
• Jack Black Double-Duty Face Moisturizer SPF 20 – $23.80’$40.80 ($28’$48)
• Jack Black Beard Lube Conditioning Shave – $9.78’$29.75 ($11.50’$35)
• Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Concentrate Face Oil – $24.65’$66.30 ($29 – $78)
• Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser $10.20’$18.70 ($12’$22)

Anyway. The point is, a little grooming care can go a long way. And Jack Black and Kielh’s get it done while also looking pretty good on the bathroom counter. This stuff is extraordinarily well reviewed (for good reason), ships free since it’s Nordstrom, and hard to find on sale. Note that the graphic above isn’t to scale. Because I do most of my graphics work in MS Paint. I’m painfully low tech.

There’s lots more on sale than just those quick picks above. So, if you’re already a Jack Black or Kiehl’s fan, what you use might be on sale.

It’s all price matched. So that means there’s no solid end-date to when the deal expires. Could end today. Could end tomorrow.

That’s it. That’s all.

Carry on.