Ah, the arrival of Spring 2016... the scent of freshly mown grass, the sight of blooming flowers, and the clamor of the fashion illuminati once again determining what’s hot and what’s not. The trending look of this season -- the urban nomad as it’s known in some circles -- is an overall very minimalist and genderbent, complete with florals, reclaimed vintage pieces, monochromatic neutrals, and even lace. Beards are quickly being shaved in favor of heavy stubble.
However, if you’re a self-proclaimed lumbersexual who’s not ready to sacrifice that well-groomed mane of facial hair, read on. It’s entirely possible to stay in vogue while maintaining that hint of lumbersexual flair.
But first…
What is a lumbersexual?
The lumbersexual, a term derived from lumberjack and metrosexual, is a man who is rugged and masculine, yet ironically manicured and metrosexual. He is both dapper, with a well-groomed beard, and hipster, freely embracing tattoos and unconventional hairstyles. A manly yet trendy man (very dreamy).
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Adopt 2016’s Hottest Menswear Trends Without Sacrificing Your Lumbersexuality:
1. Grow a beard. Then, comb it.
This is a must. If you’re not willing to become a facial hair enthusiast, are you truly a lumbersexual? Once you’ve got a beard worth envying, learn how to groom it. Invest in some beard oil -- it’ll keep your mane shiny and soft. Don’t forget to trim your beard regularly into a shape that suits your face. Comb it on the daily with a special beard brush, which not only rangles stray hairs, but trains your facial hair to grow in the direction of your choice (so it doesn't become a poor scraggly excuse of a beard).2. Embrace minimalism.
Lumbersexuals should look like they’re prepped for a week of camping -- not for a European apparel photoshoot. Even so, there are ways to adopt this hot 2016 trend (minimalism = blank space, monochromatic colors) without sacrificing your love for the rustic.
A wood watch is the perfect accessory piece for the outdoorsmen turned fashion guru. Treehut wood watches, in particular, are very minimalist, but still speak to love of the outdoors. Leather bands, too, add the perfect touch of lumbersexuality. Wooden watches are also still quite unique and will help you maintain your individuality in a crowd of hipsters and urban nomads alike:
From left to right: Boyd, Ebony Theo, Zebrawood 47, Redwood + Ebony 31
Maybe grab a pair of unique wood sunglasses too:
Furthermore, invest in some minimalist clothing pieces -- no logos or vibrant designs. Neutral colored T-shirts can be easily layered under flannels, a lumbersexual staple. However, in 2016, flannels should preferably be gray, black, white, or any other neutral shade.
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Follow the lead of this lumbersexual and pair a monochromatic tee with a hunting jacket and some rustic boots.
3. Learn to love florals.
Genderbent outfit ensembles are incredibly trendy in 2016. Florals aren’t actually contrary to this year’s minimalist fascination because the design looks incredible even in neutral colors!
Florals may seem difficult to pull off, but the lumbersexual can easily incorporate them on his shirt. If you’re brave enough, throw away that used flannel in favor of a more unique collared floral shirt.
...or get florals on your body! Lumbersexuals are also notorious for their tattoos and gorgeous half-sleeves. Why not stay ahead of the times and make 2016 your year to get inked?
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4. Keep your head warm.
Despite everyone’s extreme hatred for the manbun, men love them because they can finally grow their hair long while keeping the long strands out of their face. We love them because they’re so darn cute, especially with a nicely trimmed beard.
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We got bunz, hun.
Hat options include beanies, probably a stable for the hipster breed of lumbersexual, and baseball caps.
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5. Go vintage.
Reclaimed vintage styles, and especially 50’s shirts, are the rage right now, and they just happen to look incredible with a full-on beard.
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6. Keep wearing those hiking boots.
Lastly, it is essential that every lumbersexual owns at least one pair of rustic boots. If you’re nervous about giving up for your flannel for vintage collared shirts or your worn-in jeans for trousers (also trending right now), just remember that hiking boots can turn any outfit into lumberrific. The tough and oiled look of these boots mix classy with ruggedness.
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Plus, leather hiking boots will match the leather band on your Treehut wood watch! :P