Skip to Content
Guides

Black Book: The Cool Material Editors’ Favorite Things Right Now

Black Book: The Cool Material Editors’ Favorite Things Right Now

In the ever-evolving landscape of men’s style, finding the perfect gift or item for yourself can be a thrilling yet daunting task. One one hand, there are more options than ever regardless if interests lie in clothing, watches, shoes, high-quality audio, or anything else. On the other, too many options can be paralyzing.

That’s where these picks come in handy. From finely tailored clothing that exudes confidence to exquisite timepieces that master the art of precision, and from vintage-inspired vinyl record players that elevate auditory experiences to handcrafted shoes that redefine comfort and style, these picks transcends mere materialism.

Classic 24 Trouser Pants From AeroTech

Classic 24 Trouser Pants From AeroTech

There are classic pants out there that claim they can be taken day to night from the office to a nice dinner. The AeroTech 24 Trouser actually lives up to the claim. Comfort is top of mind with an elastic waistband that forms to your body. The legs roll for when you want to take the cut up, and pieces of extra fabric hidden in the hem makes extending the length seamless.

These pants are built to last and are sustainable: AeroTech offers one year of complimentary repair and care services, while purchases help remove carbon through a partnership with Earthly. Also listed for the clothing that AeroTech makes? The carbon and water footprint (12 kilograms of CO2 and 285 liters of water to make these particular pants).

Buy Now $179

Rains All Weather Travel Bag

Rains All Weather Travel Bag

Sometimes you only really need a small bag to carry the essentials, and you want to look good doing it. The Hilo Weekend Bag brings an elegant yet hardy style to overnight bags that’s just as much a fit for the quick work trip as it is for a weekend getaway.

Waterproof fabric and a coated full-length zip keep your belongings dry through light rain. Side-mounted compression straps secure everything in the single compartment. The bag goes with you via carrying handles or a detachable shoulder strap. At 20.5 inches wide with a 10.6 inch height and 10.2 inches depth, this Rains overnight bag has room for everything you need and nothing you don’t.

Buy Now $110

Nike Dunk Retro

Nike Dunk Retro

The Dunk was first adopted by the college basketball set before finding a second life among skateboarders a few decades later in the 2000s. The latest iteration of the design brings the look of the ‘80s together with the comfort that modern footwear technology allows. Premium leather upper wears in with use while color blocking harkens back to its original ‘80s inspiration that highlighted school team colors.

This being Nike, the shoes have more than just looks going for them. On the performance side, a comfortable foam midsole is light and responsive, and the grippy rubber outsole provides traction along with classic style.

Buy Now $115

Grid Leather Bracelet From Waldor & Co.

Grid Leather Bracelet From Waldor & Co.

The Swedish watch brand Waldor & Co. started in 2012 with the mission to make watches that are affordable, stylish, and high-quality. Today, that ethos extends to bracelets as well.

The Grid Leather Bracelet is crafted with genuine leather and has a 14 karat gold-plated 316L stainless steel buckle. It exudes elegance and sophistication that starts with the luxurious black presentation box. Available in various sizes to perfectly fit most wrists, the Grid Leather Bracelet comes with a two year international warranty and fast shipping.

Buy Now $55

Classic White Polo From Collars & Co.

Classic White Polo From Collars & Co.

Elevate your style and comfort with the Dress Collar Polo from Collars & Co. that seamlessly blends formality and ease. Its signature product was inspired by guys who despised the uncomfortable dress shirts they wore to work every day under their sweaters and jackets. The founders were tired of having to get their expensive dress shirts dry cleaned after use, but still wanted a standard English spread collar for a formal look.

Pair it with a tie and jacket for work or throw a sweater on top for a cozy date or Zoom call — this is the type of shirt that’s equally suitable in the office as it is out of the office.

Buy Now $69

Fall Boots From Myrqvist

Fall Boots From Myrqvist

Myrqvist makes shoes and boots that are a true testament to the art of handcrafted footwear. The Tjärnö Jumper Boot in dark brown calf uses Goodyear welted craftsmanship–a process where the a welt (strip of leather) is stitched to the upper shoe around its entirety, as well as the bottom sole. The boots are hand-constructed in Portugal, ensuring it stands the test of time.

The full grain calf leather is sourced from the renowned French tannery Du Puy and exudes elegance and durability, while the leather board heel stiffeners and cork filling offer unparalleled comfort and support (so no need to worry about being on your feet all day and night). The Tjärnö boasts intricate punching on the toe cap for a touch of sophistication. Its 360-degree storm welt provides water protection, and the double studded rubber sole ensures a firm grip.ail of the Tjärnö, making it the ideal addition to any discerning gentleman’s wardrobe.

Buy Now $349.00

Tudor Black Bay Chrono Watch

Tudor Black Bay Chrono Watch

There aren’t many names in the world of fine watches that carry the heft of Tudor. Many watches from the brand are capable of turning the heads of watch lovers and watch novices alike, but the Black Bay chronograph takes things to another level with vintage allure and modern functionality.

Featuring a 41mm steel case with a polished and satin finish, this watch is powered by a precise Manufacture Calibre MT5813 (COSC) self-winding mechanical movement with a power reserve of approximately 70 hours. The watch is also waterproof to 200 meters, making it a robust choice for any adventure. With its distinctive black dial, silver counters, and a date window at 6 o’clock, this watch is as stylish as it is functional.

Buy Now $5,550

Audio-Technica Turntable

Audio-Technica Turntable

Every vinyl listening experience is elevated with the Audio-Technica AT-LPW50BT-RW wireless turntable. It effortlessly combines cutting-edge technology with classic analog charm and rich sound. The stunning rosewood-finished veneer not only exudes sophistication in any room, but also reduces low-frequency acoustic feedback, guaranteeing crystal-clear, uninterrupted sound.

Vinyl enthusiasts will appreciate the high-level touches, though even record novices will find it easy to find the perfect setup with a top-quality tonearm and the acclaimed AT-VM95E cartridge. This record player provides both wired and wireless listening options, seamlessly connecting to your favorite wireless headphones, earbuds, or speakers. With manual, belt-drive operation, two speeds, and adjustable settings, the user has complete control over your vinyl collection.

Buy Now $620