Month: June 2022

If you’ve not yet been accosted by Wham’s ‘Last Christmas’ either in the office or walking past the shops, you’ve definitely not got out enough. For ’tis the season, and with the multiplying tinsel comes growing anxieties over presents.

In a world where shopping can happen at the click of a button, choosing a memorable gift for someone is harder said than done. But that’s enough about other people. You also need to make time to consider what you want to see in your sack this festive season.

Been eyeing up a new watch, or in need of a refill for your drinks cabinet? Take advantage of the Christmas spirit and have someone else shell out for one for you. That’s how it works, right? The Christmas spirit?

With that in mind, we’ve collated the finest festive gifts for men at every price point. Here’s what to ask for Christmas this year:

Head Gear

The trick to bossing the winter months as a style-conscious gentleman is to keep warm while looking good. Not as easy as it sounds – wearing a hat, of course, is an art form in itself – but you’ll manage it with any of this quality headgear.

House Plant

No home is complete with some shrubbery to add that all-important natural touch to the interior décor – especially in those winters when venturing out into actual nature is about as appealing as a snowball to the face.

Coffee Table Book

Nothing says Christmas present like a giant slab of a book to fill out those shelves – the kind of luxury, oversized gift you can’t get enough of at Christmas. Packed with glossy pics and dense information, these are the dictionary definition of a man-book.

Your Favourite Aftershave

Just make sure to spell out exactly what you want, leave the empty bottle lying around, send links if you have to, or risk getting a fragrance that smells more like rubbing alcohol. These are all safe bets.

Wrist Bling

It’s often thought that a watch is one of the few pieces of sparkly jewellery that men are allowed to actively seek out. The problem? The generally hefty price tags that come attached to bling. Can’t afford Swiss-made? That’s alright, you ain’t paying.

High-Quality Socks

Not just a myth; well-made socks make getting up when it’s still dark out that much easier (on your cold feet, at least). Wool-cotton styles wear better and keep your feet warmer. Add a splash of colour under your suit trousers for a little added personality.

Premium Cotton T-shirts

If there’s one thing every man needs more of, it’s basics. Washed a red sock with your white T-shirt? Ruined. Coffee spill in transit? In the bin. Sweat stains? Out. We’d suggest requesting a pack of six or more.

The Thinking Man’s Accessory

Here’s a shocker: men have feelings too. Even if you don’t want to use a journal as a diary, they can help keep track of your thoughts and ideas; from money-making to incriminating. In either case, always burn once full.

Shades

sunglasses in winter might signal to others that you’re a bit of a tool. But getting this holiday expense out of the way early is a good way of keeping more cash in the kitty for when you’re eventually poolside. Until then, they can be used to ease the inevitable New Year’s hangover.

An #InteriorGoals Throw

There’s nothing manly about being cold. Or leaving your company to freeze while you sit there looking glib and oblivious in a Christmas jumper. Plus, it’s probably time you covered those sofa stains.

A Cosy AF Down Jacket

Come on, own up. It’s cold. You can say it. This is a safe space. There’s nothing manly about tempting fate with frostbite on the walk back from the pub. So this year stock your wardrobe with a winter coat that’s much warmer than a beer jacket.

A Good Cookbook

It’s the 21st century and if you haven’t yet cooked a meal that consists of more than toast you’ve got some catching up to do. We’d suggest one-pot options to start (a home-cooked meal is still a home-cooked meal) while you work up to more complex recipes.

A Lamp To Love

Still choosing between two extremes of lighting: pitch black and operating theatre? Switch your family on to sorting you out with a stylish lamp, and learn the art of hygge, candlelight, pillows and throws while you’re at it. You won’t regret it.

Adult Bed Sheets

Crack a joke about being 27 going on 72 if you have to, but trust us, you’ll never look back. Aside from the fact no one is going to want to jump your bones if ‘where the magic happens’ is covered in race cars, there’s really no better excuse for snoozing through your morning meeting.

An Alarm Clock

Dark winter mornings make it even harder to crowbar yourself out from under the duvet. A wake-up light alarm clock mimics a real sunrise to coax your body into getting up and at ‘em while others are simply obnoxiously loud but get the job done.

Whisky

For when you nail that job interview (slash whenever, really) – there is always an excuse for quality whisky. You can’t go wrong with these luxe options, and if you can’t splash out on a drink over Christmas, when can you?

A Razor

razors are created equal but you can find some that are sharp in more ways than one. This year, make sure you ask for one that’s both useful and aesthetically pleasing as it’s likely the grooming gear that’s most in-use – and thus most-seen laying about.

High-Fidelity Headphones

Although you can get away with any old pair of earbuds, why would you? Invest in a high-quality pair and they will elevate your music to a whole new level of audio, proving useful long after you use them to drown out the in-laws over Christmas dinner.

Wall Art

You’ve successfully moved out, you’ve kept a plant alive and you no longer live in halls of residence. Now it’s time to decorate the walls. No, not with boughs of holly. With tasteful wall prints (old lad’s mag pin-ups don’t count either.)

A Beard Trimmer

Christmas is a fraught enough time as it is, don’t add giving your other half stubble rash. Keep your facial forest neat and tidy with a set of beard trimmers. Now all you have to do is worry about cleaning the hair-covered sink.

An Activity Tracker

Looking to get fit in the new year? A fitness watch can be enough to motivate you (or shame you) into swapping the TV tray for the treadmill. Try not to take it as an insult, everyone is wearing them these days.

Big Boy Pants

Underwear is a personal gift, sure, but also one that will never elicit an “ugh, more of those?” reaction. You may even discover a new favourite brand, like CDLP who has a sleek collection of upscale men’s underwear in every style you can think of. And really, do you actually need a reason for owning more pants?

A Neck Massager

Nowadays, life is just so stressful. From hunching over your computer for 8 hours a day (or more) to running around making sure your life doesn’t completely derail, you definitely need to relieve some tension. Ask for some bliss from the comfort of your own couch with a neck massager.

Coffee

The nectar of the gods. The fuel that keeps on giving. Whatever coffee is to you, asking for a few bags of your favorite coffee beans — or even a coffee subscription — will have you waking up energised (literally) on Christmas morning.

A Needed Skincare Set

Not taking care of your skin is so 2000 and late. Stop relying on faucet water to keep your skin looking clear and young, and instead ask for a beginner skincare set equipped with basic cleansers, moisturizers, and more. You will look refreshed and glowing in no time.

A Wallet

Do you have your big-boy wallet yet? No? It’s time to upgrade. Whether you go with regular leather, faux leather, or vegan leather, you need a wallet that will stand the test of time – and actually has pockets for your cards, ID, and more. Trust us, no one wants to see you pull out a frayed and ratty wallet.

Knife Set

Whether your Gordon Ramsey or not, you need a grown-up knife set for chopping veggies, fruits, and more. You can’t rely on your blunt knives anymore; instead, know the satisfaction that comes with clean and crisp cuts.

A Weighted Blanket

Feeling anxious? Tap into the healing energy of a weighted blanket, and enjoy the benefits of having less stress and a better night’s sleep. It might take some getting used to but feeling the weight slowly pushing down on you will be worth it.

A Legendary Air Fryer

Chicken wings? Set. French fries? Set. Literally any food you can ask for? Check. Everyone made fun of air fryers at first, but you can become a culinary genius with this countertop gadget. Gameday will never be the same.

Travel Backpack

Whether you’re hopping on flight after flight or just trying to make the most of your commute to work, a travel backpack for your laptop and other important necessities is, well, a necessity. And we aren’t talking about the backpack you brought to school every year. Time to get something professional, sleek, and stylish.

A Towel Set

On top of making sure you have big-boy sheets and bedding, you should also ensure that you have a big-boy towel set. When your hand towels match your body towel, you know you’ve truly made it in life – or are at least ready to fake it!

Charging Station

With all of our gadgets nowadays, you need a one-stop place to charge everything. When writing out your Christmas wish list, make sure to add a charging station. You will never have to worry you’re phone, Ipad, etc is going to be dead before you can even use it.

Beer Subscription

If you’re a beer lover who enjoys taking their tastebuds on spontaneous trips, this type of subscription is for you. Test out different ales, pilsners, and stouts from local breweries, and impress everyone when you go out.

House Slippers

Don’t walk around on cold floors anymore. Instead, embrace the comfort that a sturdy pair of house mocassins or slippers can give you. Not only will it encourage you not to wear your outdoor shoes inside (and help keep your floors cleaner), but it will keep your toes warm when the colder months enter the chat.

A Portable Bluetooth Speaker

From the shower to the beach, a portable speaker will allow you to narrate your life through song. Also, just think about the holiday cheer you can spread on Christmas morning by playing Christmas carols over the new speaker!

A Belt

Odds are, you’re still using the same belt for every pair of your pants. Do yourself a favor and put new belts on your wish list. You need at least one brown belt and one black belt to avoid looking like a walking fashion faux pas.

Comfy Joggers

You can never have too much athleisure in your wardrobe. Perfect for running errands, working out, going on a casual stroll, resting at home, and even for more laid-back hangouts, a solid pair of joggers will keep you both comfy and stylish. Get pairs in different colours and fabrics, and you’ll be set.

Legit Bartender Kit

Instead of going out every weekend and blowing through all your hard-earned money, have someone else invest in a bartender kit for you. Learn how to create your favorite cocktails from your kitchen, and become the speakeasy you were meant to be.

Cellphone Case

Have you updated your cellphone case yet? Do you even have a cellphone case? Treat yourself and protect your phone at the same time. Whether you want just some simple solid colours or a case with pockets for your cards or pictures, there is a case for you.

A Humidifier

Tired of waking up congested? The air in your home too dry? One way to solve these problems is by asking for a diffuser for Christmas. Breathe easier with your air being the right humidity. And if you’re feeling really fancy, you can ask for a humidifier that doubles as a diffuser to help keep your home smelling right.

Driving Gloves

A pair of leather or faux leather gloves are an adulthood must. Either lined with cashmere or another luxurious fabric, these gloves will keep your hands warm and you looking cool. Perfect for long winter drives or on a first date in the bitter cold.

Fresh Pajamas

It’s nice to spice up your nighttime wear with a bougie pajama set. Whether it’s satin or flannel, looking put together for bed adds maturity to your look. Also, it gets boring just wearing a T-shirt and boxers.

A Necessary Face Mask

Nowadays, you should carry a face mask with you in case you find yourself in a situation where you need it. Now, that face mask doesn’t need to be just a plain old disposable one; up your game with some carefully detailed fabric and cloth masks.

Decadent Deodorant

You shouldn’t rely solely on your months-old Old Spice to keep your BO in check. Instead, ensure you smell great always with a deodorant that will last. Also, updating your smells is never a bad thing.

A Soft Scarf

Trust us, it’s not manly to have a cold neck. This Christmas, ask your loved ones for a super soft and warm scarf to help you get through the winter months. Also, it really pulls together a winter outfit.

New Sneakers

What is Christmas other than opportunity to get a new pair of sneakers all bought and paid for? And we all know that unbeatable feeling of strutting around the house wearing a box fresh pair and brand new duds on Christmas Day. Try these classic designs or opt for a sleek new style from a brand like Axel Arigato or Oliver Cabell.

A Nod To Hygge

It’s hard to breathe fresh air into a market saturated by samey scents, but sometimes you’ve just got to go with the classics: applewood, forest leather and rose. Nothing says festive gifts for men more than a comfy candle and when they’re burned through, re-purpose the vessels as a key holder/coin purse/bud vase.

Knitwear

A chunky fisherman’s jumper or merino wool roll neck is never a bad idea. Ideal for layering or just wearing around the house on a cold winter’s day, good quality knitwear should make up a large portion of your winter wardrobe, so why not add to it this Christmas?

Jewellery

Male jewellery has really taken off over the past few years, with more men turning to necklaces, bracelets and earrings to add a personal touch to their style. If you want to get involved, be specific with what you ask for – perhaps send over a couple of links so people know what styles you like.

Give or take a wash here or a rip there, jeans tend to look suspiciously similar on the first take. Affordable jeans are just jeans, right? They go with everything, whatever the price tag. Can’t go wrong.

Not true.

Unlike a bad piece of knitwear, which instantly looks alien if it doesn’t suit you, a bad pair of jeans has the sinister ability to sartorially cockblock you, rendering all your outfits unsuccessful – but they do it on the down-low. The same pair that looked promising on the shelf can instantly bestow bow legs on their wearer the moment the zip’s drawn up and the button fastened. Sneaky.

But that doesn’t mean you have to spend $500 on Japanese raw selvage jeans to avoid dodgy denim. Affordable jeans retailers have enough fits, washes and styles at their disposal to make sure the trousers you live in on the weekend don’t sabotage your style.

In a hurry? Here are our top picks for affordable jean brands that combine style with unbeatable value.

Our Pick

Uniqlo

Uniqlo has mastered the art of affordable jeans. The Japanese brand keeps it simple with 3 fits to choose from, a range of washes, and even selvedge jeans, all for under $100.

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Runner Up

Gap

Gap is one of those timeless, budget-friendly brands you can always depend on, with a huge selection of affordable jeans to suit any man’s style.

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Best Value

Asket: Black Slim-Fit Jeans

Asket’s business model has allowed them to provide high-end products like selvedge denim at an accessible price-point for the style-conscious gentleman

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What To Look For In A Pair Of Affordable Jeans

It’s hard to pin down specifically what makes the perfect pair of jeans, given that there are a lot of body variables at play. Carl Malmgren, creative director at Swedish denim brand Cheap Monday, has some universal advice that applies in all cases though. He says: “The fit should come before everything else. When you try on jeans, you instantly feel that they fit or they don’t.”

If you’re shopping the old-fashioned bricks-and-mortar way you’ve got no excuse, and if you’re shopping online, order multiple options and send the bad ones back. In overused reality TV cliche catchphrase speak: go with your gut. Are they just right at the waist or are they mercilessly cutting into your hips? Are their hems kissing the tongues of your shoes or are puddles of fabric where your feet once were? You know best.

Once you’ve got the perfect jeans for your body type, look for hallmarks of quality, starting with those metallic rivets, which aren’t just for decoration. They’ll increase the strength of your denim’s wear, so make sure the pointy stubs are on all of your front pockets. Check the care label too. The fabric composition should be as close to 100 per cent cotton as possible, allowing for a small percentage of elastane for stretch varieties. An increase in non-natural fibres usually means a decrease in lifespan.

The weight of your denim (how much each yard of fabric used for the jeans weighs) is key for a long and happy life, too. Lightweight denim is around 12oz whereas heavyweight denim clocks in at 16oz (or more). Heavier denim won’t wear as easily and is less likely to lose its shape – provided you’re not attempting Tough Mudder in your jeans.

For our money, these are the places where you’ll find cheap jeans that require low spending power but offer plenty of staying power. So there’s absolutely no excuse for leg twinning with your dad.

The Best Brands For Affordable Jeans

Asket

Asket forgoes the traditional retail mark-up on their products and provides full transparency when it comes to their pricing. Because of this model, their Japanese raw denim is a fraction of the market price, as are the rest of their affordable jeans. Talk about a sound investment.

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Marks & Spencer

High-street stalwart Marks & Spencer may not be best known for its jeans, but once you get past the sturdy outerwear and soft knits you’ll find classic denim with a few mod-cons under the hood (water repellent, stretch-fit) which are ideal for laid-back, low-fuss style. There’s a good selvage selection, too.

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Gap

Gap made its name on denim, chinos and hoodies, so it stands to reason that those jean-etics are still the lifeblood of this stateside store’s offering. Divided into five shape blocks and multiple washes, the budget-friendly brand has got its sights set on the denim gap in your wardrobe, and produces selvedge for the most discerning legs.

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Uniqlo

Japan and denim go together like cheese and wine, but if your budget doesn’t stretch to artisanal brands, head to Japanese retailer Uniqlo for high-quality jeans under $50. The brand’s precisely cut, hardy denim (raw and selvedge included) will quickly form the backbone of your weekend wardrobe, and leave you with enough spare cash to actually spend on the weekend, too.

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BoohooMAN

BoohooMan has long had the affordable, trend-led menswear niche nailed, but now the e-tailer nipping at the heels of high-street competitors with a premium range that ups the quality but keeps the price low. Case in point is its designer distressed denim: looks spenny, really isn’t.

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Topman

For much of the past decade Topman was the undisputed king of super-skinny denim, which may have been eye-watering to wear but didn’t carry an eye-watering price tag. You’ll still find reasonably priced slimline shapes in its roster, but now there’s a lot more diverse denim trends to dig into, too, including wider legs.

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River Island

Any man who’s a fan of non-boring, accessibly priced menswear will be familiar with River Island. While the retailer’s trend-led pieces may catch the eye, don’t overlook its sturdy denim collection, which punches well above its price tag thanks to its diverse design and reliable quality.

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H&M

Stating the obvious klaxon: you can find just about anything to wear in H&M and none of it will require a diet of beans and toast to afford. The Swedish juggernaut’s cheap jeans offering is no exception, clocking up a dizzying array of designs which offer that fabled mix of quality, affordability and style. Look out for innovative stretch fabrics and real selvedge denim for less than $50.

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ASOS

We’re continually surprised at just how huge (and financially friendly) ASOS’ inventory is, so if you don’t know where to start, we’d suggest having a look at the e-tailer’s ever-evolving jeans edit. In typical ASOS fashion, there’s no style missing; if you can see a blind spot, we’ll eat our raw denim jeans.

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Carhartt

Yes, we appreciate a strategically placed zip and a perfect enzyme wash as much as the next denimhead, but first and foremost we’re always on the lookout for jeans made from tougher stuff. In keeping with its reputation for producing durable, functional clothing, Carhartt’s collection of robust jeans is our first port of call for styles that will stand up to some rough and tumble.

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New Look

Style-conscious but cash-strapped? New Look’s got your legs covered with its denim range, which ticks off pretty much every taste, fit and colour. So whether you’re looking to rock pared-back or pumped-up jeans, you’ll still have enough change to stick in your five pockets.

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Urban Outfitters

Recognizing the fact that denim is the workhorse of any modern wardrobe, the international brand Urban Outfitters set out to create jeans that are designed to be lived in through their in-house denim label BDG. The result is solid all-rounder styles that will quietly upgrade your everyday looks without requiring half a month’s rent upfront.

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As the weather turns colder, men look to their wardrobes to ensure they’re ready to acclimate to the snowy season. And while clothing can be adapted and layered to work for the colder season, footwear requires a dramatic change. It’s time to say goodbye to sandals and canvas low-tops and hello to warm winter boots from the best boot brands built to withstand the elements.

Whether you’re ready for the cold or not, it does bring an excuse to invest in some of the best men’s boot brands out there. Boots are great for the 9-5 worker, the blue collar fellow, and these brands should be your go-to’s.

1. Red Wing

Boots from this American brand have been put through their paces over the years, having been worn by families during the US depression and by soldiers across two World Wars.

Today, Red Wing’s legendary worker boots are as strong as ever, providing protection and comfort in refined heritage-inspired styles.

Available at Mr Porter and END Clothing.

2. Dr. Martens

No boot list would be complete without Dr. Martens. Despite first rolling off the production line more than half a century ago, getting adopted by almost every subculture along the way, the label’s iconic 8-eyelet boot, complete with signature air-cushioned sole, has stood the test of time.

The brand’s new vulcanised natural rubber version of its traditional 1460 silhouette is completely waterproof, allowing the rebellious spirit to stay alive, while keeping feet warm and dry.

Available at Amazon.

3. Timberland

In 1973, the waterproof, well-crafted Timberland boot we all know today was born. They were so ground-breaking and immediately popular, that they renamed the whole company after them.

The hip-hop movement in the 1990s brought these worker’s boots back into prominence, and today they’re known as a street style staple, while still being coveted by blue collar men.

Available at Amazon.

4. R.M.Williams

Established in Australia in 1932, it is the expert craftsmanship and premium materials that keep R.M.Williams boots as relevant as ever in the present day.

The business’ renowned Chelsea boots are coveted by contemporary and classic dressers alike, known for their hard-wearing nature, rugged aesthetic and masculine appeal.

Available at Mr Porter.

5. Clarks

A high street name most will recognize, Clarks has been producing high-quality footwear since 1852.

The British retailer’s most popular output is undoubtedly the desert boot, a design inspired by footwear made for British Army officers in Egypt. Clark’s chukka model follows in close second, crafted from soft suede in a simple and unfussy silhouette.

Available at clarksusa.com.

6. Hunter

Those who have ever been to a festival will have encountered a pair of Hunter boots. The brand’s rubberised Wellington boot is a British icon, having served everyone from the British Army to farm workers and Glastonbury-goers.

Now under the creative direction of Alasdhair Willis, Hunter has entered an exciting new era of contemporary style, but its approach remains true to its heritage, and is still one of the best boot companies in the world.

Available at hunterboots.com.

7. Grenson

Grenson specializes in Goodyear-welted footwear that is now widely available online, making them more accessible for the everyday guy.

Developed by Grenson’s craftsmen in the factory, rather than the design department, their Triple Welt line features a special sole and welt construction that makes the shoe look like it has three welts of different widths. Yes, the company’s G-TWO line is produced overseas – sacrilege to many traditionalists – but Grenson is still a one of the best boots brands for men, and its Triple Welt series proves it.

Available at grenson.co.uk and END Clothing.

8. Belstaff

British label Belstaff’s heritage is deeply embedded in the motorbiking world, so it’s no surprise that its hero style is the slim-yet-rugged biker model.

Accompanied by expert leather goods and strong celebrity endorsements, the brand’s footwear stays true to its authentic and adventurous spirit, bringing a touch of sleek luxury and elegance to a seemingly rugged world.

Whether you’re a motorbike aficionado or not, you’ll find yourself in good company in a pair of its built-to-last biker boots, which make the perfect match for any dressed-down look.

Available at belstaff.co.uk.

9. Tricker’s

Handmade in Northampton, widely regarded as the home of British shoemaking, since 1829, Tricker’s boots have held onto their authenticity with a tight fist.

The business is still owned by the same founding family and the brand continues to use traditional manufacturing techniques and original lasts, bringing over 180 years of history to every pair. Their specialty are their brogue boots, a style that has kept them as one of the most popular boot brands.

Available at END Clothing.

10. Fracap

Italian label Fracap first created footwear for agricultural use in 1987 before its designs were embraced by both the Navy and Air Force. However, it was 2002 that marked a turning point for the brand, when it switched focus towards more streetwear-inspired designs, bringing in a whole new wave of fans.

Since then, their M120 hiking boots have become a menswear favorite, created in the same Italian factory and distributed to style-conscious gents worldwide.

Available at END Clothing.

11. Church’s

Established in 1873, Church’s has maintained its place as one of the best boot brands with a focus on the intersection of high fashion style with durability and functionality.

Another boot maker specializing in brogue detailing, Church’s boots are made from the finest quality leather with rubber soles, and are great for any smart casual event.

Available at Mr. Porter.

12. UGG

You may think UGG boots don’t belong on this list, but you would be wrong. UGG originated in Australia in the 60’s as a boot brand with surfers in mind – UGG boots were designed to keep surfer’s feet warm after a day in the water.

They’ve come a long way since then, and this iconic brand now offers a whole line of high quality boots and shoes made from sheep’s wool and leather. The Neumal style look smart while maintaining the traditional UGG comfort level, making them a favorite among men.

Available at Amazon.

13. Frye

The Frye Company originated in 1863 in Massachusetts, and they adopted the Goodyear Welt method in 1923, allowing their sturdy shoes to be resoled again and again.

Frye boots are a heritage brand in the United States, and their stylish, contemporary Chelsea boots and lace-up boots are the highlights of their collection today.

Available at The Frye Company.

14. Wolverine

Wolverine is a working man’s boot company, and it’s been around on the top of its industry since 1883. They make tough work boots that would be even tougher to destroy. That wasn’t meant to read as a challenge.

Their popular seller, the 1,000 mile boots, are designed to last for 1,000 miles of wear.

Available at wolverine.com.

15. Alden of New England

Another brand that, like Frye, got its start in 19th-century New England, Alden of New England is characterized by being able to withstand the brutal winters of its namesake.

Their boots are made from rugged leather and are constructed with longevity in mind, something you should look for in the best of the best boots for men.

Available at toddsnyder.com.

16. Danner

Since 1932, Danner has crafted boots and footwear for the adventurers. “You don’t put on a pair of Danner boots to sit around the house,” claims their website.

Danner boots are built with integrity for the gritty, hard-working, outdoorsy-types. They’ve adopted many different styles of boots since their origin in Portland, Oregon, but their mountain and hiking boots reign supreme.

Available at Amazon.

17. Blundstone

An Australian brand with roots in Hobart, Tasmania, Blundstone has been around crafting the best quality boots for over 150 years, since 1870. Tried and true designs for the working man.

Today, their bestsellers are their Chelsea boots, which come in styles that are more rugged and more professional, depending on your particular needs.

Available at Amazon.

18. Chippewa Boots

Chippewa’s origins lie in Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin, where they got their start as an unassuming boots brand back in 1901. Over 100 years later, the legacy lives on in more contemporary styles.

With designs for working and for outdoor use (hiking, camping), Chippewa Boots have stood the test of time, and remain one of the best boot companies for shoes that will work as hard as you.

Available at Amazon.

19. Helm Boots

A newcomer to the boots game on this list, Helm Boots have made a name for themselves fast. Founded in 2009 by Joshua Bingaman, an Oklahoma native, they use old-fashioned methods to ensure their boots are of the highest quality.

Every pair of boots goes through a process involving over 153 steps before they reach your doorstep.

Available at helmboots.com.

20. Ariat

Named after Secretariat the horse, Ariat was founded with the premise of becoming “The New Breed of Boot.” They were the first boot company to integrate athletic footwear technology into equestrian boots.

Ariat is best known for their cowboy boots, so any good ol’ boy should have a pair in his closet. They also have a line of hiking boots and Chelsea boots for those less inclined to wear cowboy boots.

Available at ariat.com.

FAQs

What are the best cowboy boot brands?

Ariat is one of the best cowboy boot brands for men. Lucchese, Justin and Larado are also some famous boot brands favored by cowboys and considered some of the best boot makers out there.

What’s the best brand of boots?

Dr. Marten’s, Grenson, Red Wing, Timberland, Ariat, Helm, Danner, R.M. Williams and Clarks are among the best men’s boot brands. Other good boot brands are Belstaff, Hunter, Fracap, Frye and UGG.

What are the best work boots for men?

Timberland, Wolverine, Blundstone and Chippewa are men’s boots brands that all make high quality, long-lasting work boots for men.

There was a time when wearing clothes so baggy they needed a staple gun to stay on was less of style move, more your mum making sure you could make it through puberty in the same school blazer.

But if you graduated any time in the last 15 years, chances are you grew up to enjoy clothes that were designed slim and flattering – clothes that didn’t just hang on your shoulders. For the majority of the 21st century, menswear has been dominated by skinny cuts.

Under the influence of Hedi Slimane at Dior Homme and later Saint Laurent, men’s wardrobes were shrink-wrapped around the mid-2000s. It was all muscle shirts, slimline tailoring and indie bands in skinny-fit everything. But in recent years, the fashion pendulum had swung back.

It was partly a reaction to what came before, but the oversized trend also went hand-in-hand with the rise of hip-hop fashion and athleisure into the mainstream. Kanye West’s longline tees and chunky hoodies were one part, the billowing suits of Kim Jones, Demna Gvasalia, Patrick Grant and Virgil Abloh another.

Compared with spray-on jeans and nip-and-tuck tailoring, this is comfort as fashion. Wide-leg trousers, slouchy blazers, boxy tees and blanket coats. Not that oversized clothes can’t be tailored, but they’re certainly more louche.

It would be a mistake to think it’s something new, though. Wider slacks are bastions of 1950s style, dad jeans are right out of the ’90s, while power suits are ingrained in the 1980s.

Oversized has always been a statement, and just now it’s one that a lot of the fashion world is making.

Supersize Me: How To Make The Oversized Trend Work

Know The Occasion

The oversized trend might be big right now, but it’s not something for all occasions, says stylist Sarah-Ann Murray, who has dressed the likes of Samuel L Jackson, Stanley Tucci and Jonah Hill. “I’m not convinced it works as eveningwear which is usually the most formal of occasions. That’s not to say you can’t wear it for smarter looks though. Take the Armani-like Italian suits, which are often a generously-cut soft style.

“As long as it fits on the shoulders, the arm and trouser length, and proportionally at the waist, and the rest of the proportions are correct so it is not too short in the jacket, then a deconstructed oversized suit, especially double-breasted, can absolutely work.”

Buy Oversized, Not Big

Don’t try and cheat the system, either. Other sharp-elbowed shoppers might have nabbed all but one of this season’s must-have suede jackets, but if it’s two sizes too big, don’t just palm it off as oversized, which always works best when it’s been designed to fit that purpose.

“Purposefully oversized pieces provide the additional structure you need to avoid looking like all your clothes have stretched on the hanger which just looks scruffy,” says Murray. “You want the items to be oversized in the correct places, like the shoulders and the waist. Otherwise, you’ll look like a schoolboy who’s not grown into his new school uniform yet, or worse, Donald Trump in a suit.”

Add Balance

As with any statement trend, it’s important to avoid the temptation to go crashing in with all the grace of a reversing dump truck without any tyres on. This style works best when you dip your toes in gently at first, says Murray.

“For the most part, you need to balance out the look with a slimmer fit elsewhere. With an oversized coat, for example, you might want to wear it over a more fitted jumper, tee or shirt and slimmer jeans and have just one item which offers the movement and oversized lines. The same stands for jeans or trousers, try and keep it a normal fit on top, but avoid super skinny as the contrast will look odd.”

7 Ways To Go Big On Oversized Fashion

Oversized Coat

The oversized coat has been beloved by wallflower sleuths ever since Sherlock Holmes swung a cape over his shoulders and stuck a deerstalker on his bonce. Follow the detective’s lead on this one.

When you’re going big with fit, go easy on colour. Neutral shades like grey, white and navy work best, while brighter tones will have you looking like a sleazy soul singer finishing up a bender in the local strip club.

Oversized technical coats, puffer jackets and parkas work, but wool overcoats best lend themselves to a more flowing silhouette. Underneath, keep the silhouette sleek with roll necks and cropped trousers, and keep a little of below on show so no one is worried about what you are wearing (or lack thereof) under wraps.

Oversized Tee

Skatewear is streetwear and streetwear is high-fashion, so thanks to some basic mathematics, baggy tees – a favourite of those ollie 360 flipping boarders – are now high-fashion.

A minimal, neutral tee will stand you in slicker menswear stead than any Grateful Dead band merch, but don’t be afraid of a pop of colour as long as you’re balancing it down below.

Usual rules about the T-shirts sleeve hitting the middle of the bicep don’t necessarily apply here, with some cuts falling as low as the elbow. Just maybe consider adding a few rolls to the hem to avoid your arms looking weedy.

Oversized Jumper

A jumper is probably the easiest item of oversized clothing to wear – who could blame you for cocooning yourself in knitwear for winter? It’s a look that can be as grungy as it is cosy countryside, though.

As the likely second line of defence under a jacket or coat, it’s easier to work colour and pattern into an oversized jumper than other items of clothing. If you do opt for something attention-grabbing up top, keep it balanced with a simple pair of trousers below, which should hit the sartorial sweet spot on fit: not too wide, not too skinny.

Standard crew necks aren’t the only option here either. An exaggerated roll neck can look (and feel) especially warm and inviting when the weather outside becomes harsher.

Oversized Suit

You don’t need to be a menswear expert to know that wearing a zoot suit is an acquired taste (and a bad one at that). However, power dressing is once again back in the boardroom, so it pays to know how to make the hire.

If you are going to amp-up your tailoring, remember that the basic principles of fit still count. That means the jacket should slope down the shoulders and the sleeves should finish above the top of your wrist bone.

To bring the look out of the 1980s, consider dressing down a boxy double-breasted suit by wearing the jacket open over a plain T-shirt, or by using separates to break the outfit up.

Oversized Trousers

Baggy trousers? That’s madness, you say. But there is a way to do it and not look like a sack of potatoes.

First things first, go cropped. Most of the time, bunches of excess fabric at the hem tend only serves to look less messy. If there is a break, aim for just one full break and make sure the back of the trousers isn’t sweeping the floors. Pleated trousers are a great option in this category – on trend, and as part of the 1950s comeback, they sit above the waist for a flattering fit while the trouser fabric neatly flows down below.

The thicker fabric on jeans means they won’t glide as effortlessly as you strut, but their unfussy demeanour means they work great in workwear ‘fits like a sturdy camel chore coat with a layered shirt and T-shirt underneath (trucker cap optional).

Oversized Hoodie

I said to hip-hop, hippie to the hippie, you’re going to have to buy an oversized hoodie. Everyone in the rap game from Travis Scott to Kanye West is touting them, the blown out of proportion shape suiting the larger than life personas.

Black is a favoured go-to, probably because it hides all the shadows from the rounder parts of your frame (love handles be gone) so the eye can focus on just the shape of the fabric and not of you.

Logos and graphics can work, but unless you’re a regular hypebeast, keep these to a minimum – a simple script logo is enough to show people that you’re clued into the best brands about. Be warned though, it will never work for smart casual occasions so works best next to other casual favourites like jeans and sneakers.

Oversized Shirt

Try and stay away from the high fashion side of things with this one – dress shirts without cufflinks billowing limply just looks like honey shrunk you with her ray gun. However, a patterned or plaid shirt over the top of a simple tee with the sleeves rolled up (droopy cuffs are a no-no) always works as long as there is some hardwearing denim down below.

Longline shirts can work with a slim-fitting jacket over the top to emphasise the length while keeping the upper body in check. The same goes for a jumper. If your shirt fabric is peeking out below a jumper keep the shirt in one colour – it will look odd having a floating paisley pattern around your crotch.

If opting to go for an oversized short-sleeve shirt, Cuban collars work mainly because the slouchy holiday look will never go out of vogue, but best to go wide with the trousers too. You’re on your holidays, so let it all out.

Hats were once considered an everyday item, gracing the heads of the aristocracy and working class alike. But as the years passed and the appeal of headwear faded, hatmakers were pushed in a slightly more niche direction.

However, classic styles such as the fedora and panama have seen something of a revival in recent years, putting their founding labels back on the map.Meanwhile, the industry’s current obsession with everything nineties has thrust casual options such as the baseball cap and bucket hat into the limelight, with authentic streetwear brands capitalising on their current popularity.

Yet whether you prefer sophisticated and refined or contemporary and urban, the ten best hat brands for men below are sure to offer something that suits your needs.

1. Bailey

Established in 1922, American hat brand Bailey has catered to Hollywood’s finest (Humphrey Bogart and Fred Astaire were big fans) over its long lifespan, and continues to produce high quality headwear to this very day.

Renowned for its craftsmanship, the label specialises in timeless gentlemanly styles, from felt trilbies and fedoras to straw panamas and pork pies.

2. Goorin

Starting off life as a horse and cart in Pittsburgh, US-based label Goorin has gone on to evolve into a fully-fledged international brand with a slick line of products to boot.

Still a family-owned business, the hatmaker has an authentic edge that makes it a trusted name among headwear aficionados, along with a line of cheeky trucker hats for the modern man.

They’re also the brand that created Walter White’s iconic pork pie hat in Breaking Bad, which is aptly named the ‘Heisenberg’.

3. Christys’ Of London

Traditional skills and craftsmanship sit at the heart of this British label, which continues to manufacture each of its designs in the UK and is based in its original Oxfordshire location.

Over its 200-year lifespan, Christys’ has produced everything from military headwear to pieces for royalty, so you will be in good company if you purchase one of the brand’s designs.

4. New Era

Known for its part in the modern revival of snapbacks, New Era has been going strong in the sporting world since 1920.

The American label is still the exclusive producer of on-field caps worn by every major league baseball team, and now sells over 35 million hats across the globe every year.

5. Lock & Co. Hatters

This British label is all about history and tradition, with its success spanning back to the late 1600s. Hailed as the world’s oldest hat shop and family-owned business, Lock & Co has produced headwear for everyone from Sir Winston Churchill to Charlie Chaplin over the years.

With a Royal Warrant under its belt, the brand continues to produce some of the finest hats in the world.

6. Stetson

American brand Stetson draws inspiration from times gone by for its collections, producing classic styles with a contemporary twist. Its hats have a historic cowboy feel, but are unstuffy and softer in structure for a more comfortable wear.

From classic caps to outdoor adventure hats, this label has something for every type of gent.

7. Borsalino

Established in 1857, Borsalino has cemented itself as an iconic brand in the industry thanks to its world-renowned fedoras.

Operating in Italy since 1857, the label specialises in expertly made, timeless silhouettes, turning out everything from luxury flat caps to genuine panamas.

8. Barbour

As you would expect, Barbour perfectly captures the essence of the countryside with its range of hats, making them ideal for fans of the British heritage aesthetic.

Flat caps, trappers, beanies and bucket hats all feature in its collections, crafted in everything from the brand’s signature waxed cotton to traditional tweeds for an authentic feel.

9. Brixton

Inspired by music, style and culture, Californian label Brixton is fast becoming one of the coolest hat brands on the market.

`Expect beanies, snapbacks, fedoras and trilbies in a range of easy-to-wear shades, each perfect for a summer festival or autumn gig.

10. Filson

Seattle-based brand Filson captures the simplicity and elegance of outdoor life with its line of headwear, tweaking the finer details on a range of classic silhouettes for the modern rugged gentleman.

With styles ranging from beanies to trucker caps, to the cult favorite tin cloth packer hat, Filson is without a doubt among the best hat brands in the world, especially in the practicality department.