We Asked an Expert Designer How to Layer This Fall

Japanese designer Eiichiro Homma built his career walking the line between style and function. He worked for 18 years at Goldwin, a Japanese sportswear label that included brands like The North Face and Helly Hanson. And in 2003, he founded Nanamica, a clothing brand that fused elements of performance with wardrobe staples.

Well over a decade before brands stateside began pushing traditional garments made with technical fabrics, Homma defined the category with his own label and The North Face Purple Label. “Since we are not Olympic athletes nor Everest climbers, we don’t need gears for competition,” Homma told us in 2018. “We thought if we combined classic-looking clothing and the latest technology of functionality, we could create the best gears for our life.”

To learn how these gears work for fall, we asked Homma how to best approach layering this season.

1Coordinate your colors with the season. “Obviously when it becomes fall, we need outerwear. Hence, we are able to enjoy the coordination of layering. On the other side, the beginning of fall is often still quite warm due to global warming these days. There is a certain difference of colors in between summer and fall even if some fall garments are still lightweight. This means if you change your dressing into fall colors earlier than others, you will showcase you are conscious of change in seasons.”

2Don’t get stuck in the past. “For this fall season, I would like to recommend reviewing all your basic items. Over the last three years, fits have become bigger despite a smaller fit being popular for over a 10-year period. Should seasonal outwear be new for you, that fit, too, should be on-trend.”

3Invest in garments that will work together. “In terms of fashion, this season we intended to focus on typical outdoor sports styles. So fleece items are key this season as are inner down items, which has been very popular over the years. In terms of function, the fundamentals of functional outdoor gear are a ‘three-layer wearing system’ which comprises of outerwear for wind and rain protection, a mid-layer for maintaining your body temperature and underwear for moisture perspiration. In the early fall, we often feel a big difference in temperature from first thing in the morning to later in the daytime. By choosing the right combination of each layer, you will have a comfortable set for fall.”

4Consider a brand’s intention. “In the past, I felt there was no brand that successfully merged fashion with function. Since Nanamica’s launch back in 2003, we have seen many brands that focus on both factors. However, you must distinguish between a brand that understands the logic of functionality and a brand which pick functional details as design elements.”

5Find your own path. “My personal tip is ‘small differences make a clear impact.’ Of course, it is easy to make a difference by wearing a trendy item, big brand logos and decorative items. But I enjoy when people showcase their character by combining everyday common items in their own way.”

Nanamica Layering Pieces

Striped Coolmax T-Shirt by Nanamica $110

Dualwarm Rollneck Sweatshirt by Nanamica $180

Polartec Fleece Half-Zip Sweatshirt by Nanamica $340

Alphadry Suit Jacket by Nanamica $590

Alphadry Drawstring Trousers by Nanamica $240

Gore-Tex Raincoat by Nanamica $780

Note: Purchasing products through our links may earn us a portion of the sale, which supports our editorial team’s mission. Learn more here.

The 7 Best Water-Resistant Commuter Backpacks You Can Buy in 2019

Rainy season is no excuse for soaked belongings. Check the weather reports and pack accordingly. Many brands are making water-resistant commuter bags to keep your goods safe and dry, no matter the weather. With classic, understated designs, they seem less like dry-packs and more like day packs. So prepare for unexpected weather, and peruse our favorite styles below.

Rains Field Bag

This minimalist bag has a padded laptop sleeve and an external zip pocket, and the PU-polyester blend is inspired by the Danish brand’s classic raincoats.

Timbuk2 Blink Backpack

Made from coated ripstop fabric, this bag features three exterior pockets, a padded laptop sleeve, a lined interior and side buckle-tabs.

Patagonia Black Hole 32L Pack

This double-entry bag allows access to your goods from the side or the top. It is cut from water-repellent rip stop fabric and features a padded back and buckled flap top.

Master-Piece Slick Series Ballistic Backpack

This rubber-like fabric is made from German resin and Italian polyester. Made in Japan, the design features an asymmetric zip pocket, leather detailing, padded shoulder straps and Cordura backing.

Cote&Ciel Nile Rucksack

This bag features a coated polyester shell, leather panels and a reinforced rip-stop hood. The bag has a laptop pouch, internal pockets and ccoated metal hardware.

Filson Journeyman Backpack

Made from oil finish Tin Cloth, this rugged bag features a padded laptop sleeve, a storm flap and a solid brass zipper. Made in America, it features shoulder straps lined with tear-resistant, sueded Moleskin.

Arc-Teryx Veilance Nomin Backpack

This waterproof bag is incredibly light and understated. It features a large storage compartment, a rigid laptop holder and WaterTight external zippers.

Note: Purchasing products through our links may earn us a portion of the sale, which supports our editorial team’s mission. Learn more here.

The Best Leather Jackets to Buy on eBay Right Now

The classic leather jacket is a wardrobe staple for a reason: it transcends the cycle of trends, it looks good with nearly everything and it lasts forever. Because new leather jackets can be, at times, prohibitively expensive, it’s smart to look into used options. These are the best jackets to buy on eBay right now.

Vanson Dakota Barn Coat

Many jackets on eBay from the Massachusettes-based Vanson come in sizes like XXL or 52. So this size 38 — fitting a size small — is a great find for the right person. It features a zip front, two welted hand pockets and bi-swing shoulder for greater mobility. The seller says it’s been worn less than 12 times and the starting bid is $300.

Aero x Iron Heart Horsehide Motocycle Jacket

Made in Scotland, this jacket delivers Aero’s leather expertise with Iron Heart’s Japanese-Americana styling. Cut from rich brown horsehide, it has a dual-zip front and two welted hand pockets. It’s a XL and the seller says it’s never been worn outside — a like-new, extremely rare jacket.

Langlitz Columbia Jacket

This Oregon-made jacket is based on the first model that Ross Langlitz made in 1945. The style features an offset zipper, a semi bi-swing back, an adjustable stiffening band around the base of the jacket and two zippered hand pockets. A size medium, this jacket has been worn less than 10 times (according to the seller) and is in “like-new” condition.

RRL Motorcycle Jacket

This size large jacket has vintage style in spades. It is cut from vegetable-tanned cowhide which has been distressed to simulate years of wear, and it has some Italian cow-hair pannels (based on a jacket from the 1930s). The style has notch lapels, a asymmetrical front zip and a two front waist pockets — it’s also brand new.

Fine Creek Leathers Leon Jacket

This Japanese horsehide jacket was originally purchased from Self Edge and is tagged a 40 (though the seller says it fits smaller). It’s brand new and is made with 2mm-thick vegetable-tanned horsehide, vintage-style steel buttons and pigment-dyed cotton (for the liner). The style is classic, but, in an interesting throwback twist, it has the epaulets and belt loops cut off.

Note: Purchasing products through our links may earn us a portion of the sale, which supports our editorial team’s mission. Learn more here.

Levi’s Made a Tech-Infused Jacket You’ll Actually Want to Wear

For the second iteration of its wearable tech jacket, Levi’s produced two styles you’ll actually want to wear this fall. The Levi’s Commuter x Jacquard by Google jacket now comes in both the iconic Trucker and Sherpa Trucker silhouettes; they look just like the Levi’s jackets you love, but they discreetly connect to your phone.

A small, rectangular tag — about the size of a quarter — slides into the left cuff, activating a touch sensor integrated into the cuff’s fabric. Users can then access their phone’s navigation, rideshare apps, weather reports, texts, music and phone calls with simple customizable gestures. Swipes and taps can deliver essential information so you don’t have to pull your phone out of your pocket: answer and end calls, get on-demand directions, know when your Uber or Lyft will show up (and who’s driving it) or take the perfect selfie from a distance.

The jackets are compatible with both iOS and Android phones and require the Jacquard app to access features. The Jacquard tag lasts up to two weeks on a single charge, and the jacket itself is machine-washable (sans tag, of course). Available in sizes S to XXL, these jackets start at just under $200.

These are the classic jackets you know, but they offer to actually make your better — to get your head up and out of your screen, so you can be more present in everyday situations while not sacrificing the essential features of your phone.

Trucker Jacket by Levi’s Commuter X Jacquard By Google $198

Sherpa Trucker Jacket by Levi’s Commuter X Jacquard By Google $248

Note: Purchasing products through our links may earn us a portion of the sale, which supports our editorial team’s mission. Learn more here.

10 Boots We Can’t Wait to Wear This Fall

While many boot styles are essentially codified, brands still create seasonal variations to keep a fresh offering. Leathers and soles are frequently updated, along with hardware and detailing. Some brands also modify traditional silhouettes, shortening the shaft or switching up the toe box. Either way, there are plenty of new boots on the market this fall. Below, check out the 10 styles we can’t wait to wear.

White’s Main Street Boots

These handsome everday boots have a very accessible price point compared to other styles from White’s. Unlike the rugged boots designed for wildland fire fighters or smoke jumpers that are made with handsewn stitch-down construction, these are made in Spokane with Goodyear welt construction. They also feature a full leather midsole and shank, and a 5-inch water-resistant upper. For your money, you’d be hard pressed to find a better value.

Aether Dolomite Boots

California brand Aether collaborated with Italian brand Fracap to produce a modern hiking boot. Based on an army design, the Dolomite boots have vegetable-tanned Italian leather uppers, metal eyelets and Vibram soles. The boot’s stitchdown construction insures they can be rebuilt after years of use.

Ugg Neumel Flex Boots

Uggs have long been favorites of surfers for their superior warmth and comfort after hours in frigid waters. Now, you can get that level comfort in an easy-wearing ankle boot. The Neumel Flex has an elastic gore planel for a secure fit and a Treadlite outsole for great traction in a range of situations.

Tecovas Billy Boots

These Tecovas boots feature a single-piece African python vamp (made from a larger, mature snake) and a calfskin shaft. Available in a brown Saddle colorway that is exclusive to the Python Collection, each boot is made in Leon, Mexico. This boot utilize Goodyear welt construction (so they can be rebuilt), and include soft bovine-leather linings, comfort insoles, leather midsoles and hand-stitched cording.

Wolverine 1000 Mile Mid UFO

These chukka-height boots are inspired by objects floating around our solar system and feature two types of C.F. Stead leather. They have a distressed lugged Vibram outsole and a comfortable leather-topped sock insert. They are a limited edition and are available in sizes 6 to 13 while supplies last.

Lucchese Lincoln Boots

This slouchy Western boot has a 10-inch shaft and a rugged Frontier suede upper. The low-profile roper heel is appropriate for a day of walking and the welted construction guarantees these can be rebuilt. Made in Texas, they have a leather sole and are available in four colors.

Timberland Spongebob Squarepants Boots

Timberland’s classic 6-inch style was given a very unique touch this season with Spongebob accents. The black nubuck upper is waterproof and has references to the cult-favorite T.V. series. The best part: there are kids sizes available as well so if you’re into matching footwear across generations, you’re covered.

Blundstone Style 063

These sleek dress boots come in black, brown and tan, and feature a slim profile and chisel toe. Like Blundstone’s iconic Original 500 boots, the new style has elastic side panels, premium leather uppers, and durable, slip-resistant outsole. They have light midsole cushioning for comfort and padding underneath the heel.

Oliver Sweeney Oxenholme Boots

This vintage-inspired hiker has a top-tier Chromexcel leather upper from Horeween in Chicago and utilizes Norwegian welt constuction for added storm resistance. The design is secured with six d-rings and two speed hooks. For superior grip, it features a rugged St. Moritz hiking sole.

Dr. Martens x Schott NYC 1490 Boot

These two brands created a pair zip boots worth adding to your fall wardrobe. The collab 1490 has a 10-eye black leather upper, slip-resistant sole and hefty side sipper secured by a leather strap. Available October 4, it will run you just $195.

Note: Purchasing products through our links may earn us a portion of the sale, which supports our editorial team’s mission. Learn more here.

The 8 Best New Fragrances of Fall 2019

Collectively, we continue to act blindsided by the arrival of fall. Every year, it’s the same shock: Summer is over! And every year, on September 23, fall drops in and stays for three months. Like clockwork.

Thus, every year around this time, the scents change with the season. Ideally, you prepared for it, by topping off your heartier notes and spritzing the last of your fresh, floral ones. But if you too are blindsided by the autumnal equinox of 2019, then worry not: it’s still early enough to stock up on a fall scent, and many of your best options will suit winter weather as well.

Better yet, why not try a new scent this season? And not just a fragrance that’s new to your nose, but one that’s brand new to shelves; this will ensure that your scent is uniquely yours, and not one of the half-dozen standby scents your friends wear.

Here, then, are this year’s best additions to the fall fragrance catalog. Happy hunting! Oh, and mark your calendar for December 21 — we heard a rumor that that’s when winter is coming (Again, as planned, each year. It’ll be the perfect time to snag another from this list for the gifting season.)

Henry Rose Fog EDP

With the freshness of a mid-Autumn morning, Fog rolls into this list by balancing vetiver and musk so cleanly; despite those full notes, it never feels weighed down. This is the standout scent from one of the year’s big fragrance debuts — Henry Rose is a new venture from the inimitable Michelle Pfeiffer, and its line of five scents suits men and women alike.

Bvlgari Man Wood Neroli EDP

While it’s built for spring and summer, Bvlgari’s annual spin on the classic “Man” scent is every bit as appropriate for fall. It emphasizes neroli, cedar, orange blossom and bergamot, and recalls the endless summer days on the Mediterranean coast. Wear it into autumn so that your crisp, sunny memories don’t cease with the season.

Kenneth Cole Mankind Legacy EDT

Kenneth Cole calls Mankind Legacy a “day-to-night” scent, which it is, but it’s also an excellent fall-to-winter fragrance that will wear well with every occasion. This a warming scent, despite the effervescent impression given by its gray-blue tones; key notes are both green and woody (balsam, cedar, clary sage), resinous (amyris), as well as spicy (nutmeg).

Confessions of a Rebel by Scentbird About Last Night EDP

Scentbird is already the go-to site for curious noses and searchers of a signature scent (allowing customers to test fragrances by mail, at low cost). But they’re finally in the scent making game, too, having launched Confessions of a Rebel with four products. Our pick of the four is also a fit for fall: About Last Night unites bergamot, grapefruit, pink pepper, vetiver, mandarin oil and a blend of spices. Together, they vibe like downtown NYC after dark—that is, the gritty-but-vibrant Lower East Side, not stodgy-but-still-stodgy Wall Street. Thus, wearing About Last Night may rightfully align your sleep schedule with The City That Never Sleeps.

Ormonde Jayne Isfarkand Elixir EDP

A remix of Ormonde Jayne’s Isfarkand, this Elixir launch plays prominently on cedar, bergamot and lime. Its heartbeat is the elusive Iso E Super molecule, which pulses dry, cedar-like notes throughout the day, ensuring that this potion is every bit as magical as the scent upon which it is based. Save some of it for spring, as it wears especially well in both shoulder seasons.

Jack Black Black Reserve Body Spray

Black Reserve is a fit for the entire year, but it’s a limited edition launch from Jack Black. For that reason, you had better get it now and see just how many seasons it lasts. It combines the crispness of bergamot and mandarin, the uplifting essence of lavender, the calming sense of cardamom, and the magnetism of cedarwood, leather and patchouli.

Maison Martin Margiela Whispers in the Library EDT

Cedar, pepper, patchouli, and vanilla envelop the wearer with both sweetness and warmth. MMM describes its latest launch as “The slowing down of time between books and the whispers of turning pages.” But, if it were up to us, we’d be yelling across the room at how fit it is for fall.

Guerlain Les Absolus D’Orient Bois Mysterieux EDP

“Mysterious wood” is perhaps the strongest and longest-lasting of this list. That is thanks to the gravity given to it by notes of leather, myrrh, patchouli, and cedar. Combined with neroli, laurels and jasmine, the result is fresh but spicy, as well as sexy and smoky. It intends to recall the warmth of oriental incense—and does so successfully, making it a statement piece for both fall and winter.

Note: Purchasing products through our links may earn us a portion of the sale, which supports our editorial team’s mission. Learn more here.

If You’ve Ever Wanted Python Boots, Buy These Now

Tecovas, the Austin-based brand delivering quality boots for fair prices, now offers its classic styles in python. Pick up a pair of Western boots that would normally retail for close to $900 for under $400 today. Both styles — a cowboy boot and a roper boot — feature a single-piece African python vamp (made from a larger, mature snake) and a calfskin shaft.

Available in a brown Saddle colorway that is exclusive to the Python Collection, each boot is made in Leon, Mexico. The styles utilize Goodyear welt construction (so they can be rebuilt), and include soft bovine-leather linings, comfort insoles, leather midsoles and hand-stitched cording. Also, the stacked leather heels are reinforced with rubber caps for added grip and durability.

If you like the look of python boots, but don’t have the money to spare, Tecovas is also offering some limited-edition accessories. Pick up a belt, a card case or a wallet — prices start at just $95.

Billy Boot by Tecovas $395

Boone Boot by Tecovas $385

Python Belt by Tecovas $165

Python Billfold by Tecovas $155

Python Card Case by Tecovas $95

Note: Purchasing products through our links may earn us a portion of the sale, which supports our editorial team’s mission. Learn more here.

The 6 Best Beard Trimmers You Can Buy in 2019

An electric beard trimmer is a necessity for maintaining facial hair. The best ones are intuitive and offer a range of settings for general hair trimming and precision touch-ups.

In recent years, advances in rechargeable batteries have allowed for cordless trimmers to run up to an hour or more. Many beard trimmers on the market also utilize blades that require very little upkeep — as a general rule: look for self-sharpening steel blades that don’t require oil before each use.

You’ll also want to consider how, and where, you’ll be using it. Have you maintained the same beard for years and just need a one-trick pony? Do you alternate between short and long styles and need a trimmer that offers a lot of variety? Will you take your trimmer on business trips or are you leaving it in a bathroom cabinet? Finally, what’s your budget?

No matter how you answered any of these questions, our picks have you covered.

Wahl Model 9864

Best All-Around Beard Trimmer: Made in the America, this beard trimmer is housed in a durable stainless steel housing and utilizes rechargable Lithium Ion 2.0 technology that can provide hours of trimming on one charge. The Model 9864 comes with four attachments and 12 T-Blade guide combs to achieve different length trims.

The self-sharpening blades stay sharp over years of use and the warranty is one of the longest you’ll find in the world of beard trimmers. The best feature, though? A one-minute charge will give you three minutes of trimming time — perfect for procrastinators everywhere.

Attachments: 4
Runtime: 6 hours
Warranty: 5 years

Philips Norelco Multigroom MG7770

Best Feature-Packed Beard Trimmer: This aluminum-body beard trimmer has two times as many blades for a more precise trim. Its Lithium-ion battery delivers a 6-hour runtime, and the MG7770 comes with six purpose-designed attachements and a range of trimming guards.

It comes with a rugged zipper case that has a contoured foam body to hold the trimmer and pouches to secure attachments. What’s more, the steeper price is justified by an industry-leading 10-year warranty.

Attachments: 6
Runtime: 6 hours
Warranty: 10 years

Panasonic ER-GB80-S

Best Washable Beard Trimmer: This trimmer has 39 adjustable settings to fine-tune your grooming routine — a rubberized dial controls the settings in .5mm increments from .5mm to 20mm. The stainless steel blades are washable and a convenient water-drain allows quick cleaning after each use.

While the battery will last just shy of an hour, a LED charge indicator on the handle indicates the power level as to not leave you stranded in the middle of a trim. The attachments that come with the ER-GB80-S are designed for closer facial hair trimming, longer beard styles and precision body hair grooming. Panasonic also outfitted the trimmer with a rubberized handle that fits comfortably in bigger hands.

Attachments: 3
Runtime: 50 minutes
Warranty: 2 years

Braun Multi Grooming Kit MGK5080

Best Beard Trimmer for Travel: This compact trimmer can keep up with the best. It comes with four attachments and can trim beards from .5mm to 21 mm (in 2mm increments). The battery delivers one hour of runtime and a LED indicator on the handle displays the battery life. Thankfully, this trimmer is fully washable, making on-the-go cleanup a breeze. It’s also small enough to be packed into a Dopp kit without disturbing your current grooming products.

Attachments: 4
Runtime: 100 minutes
Warranty: 2 years

Andis T-Outliner

Best Corded Beard Trimmer: If you need a precision trimmer to touch-up your neck, beard and moustache, this is a solid option. Inside the heavy-duty housing, a quiet magnetic motor powers carbon-steel blades designed for years of use. Weighing in at 11.5 ounces, this trimmer is easy on the hands for extended use. The T-Outliner is ideal for dry shaving, but make sure to oil the blade before each use to insure a good trim.

Attachments: 0
Runtime: Continuous
Warranty: 1 year

Philips Norelco Beard Trimmer BT7215/49

Best Beard Trimmer with a Vacuum: Sometimes, convenience is a good thing; such is the case of the Philips Norelco BT7215/49. It has an integrated vacuum that catches the majority of your beard hairs, making post-trim cleanup incredibly fast.

Choose from 20 length settings ranging from .5mm to 10mm (in .5mm increments) and use four different attachments to get your ideal trim. It utilizes self-sharpening steel blades that are removable and washable. A lithium-ion battery delivers 80 minutes of runtime on a one-hour charge. The brand’s five-year warranty should do away with any buyer’s remorse — this is a close contender for the best all-around trimmer.

Attachments: 4
Runtime: 80 minutes
Warranty: 5 years

Note: Purchasing products through our links may earn us a portion of the sale, which supports our editorial team’s mission. Learn more here.

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