L D shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
L, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What is a normal day like for you right now?
Yasss, knowledge is power!! Well, every day looks different for me, which is actually part of what I love. Some days I’m in the closet with a client for a merch sesh or image assessment; some days I begin with personal shopping or pulling looks for a branding shoot; I am constantly dropping off and picking up alterations from my tailor, then delivering to the client; Tuesdays I’m on campus at University of Memphis teaching; other days I’m working from home on Beg & Borrow—designing customs, planning pop ups or upcoming collabs, or curating new production. The only constant day is admin day Monday, which I keep for catching up on emails, invoices, research, and lining up everything for the following week (while doing the most skincare).
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi guys! I’m Lauren, but most people know me as LD. I run two sides of my creative world: Styled by LD, where I work with clients on everything from personal styling to creative event consulting, and Beg & Borrow Apparel, my bespoke brand of timeless yet versatile silhouettes with a femme-meets-menswear edge. What makes both special is how they connect people and community—whether I’m curating looks, producing a runway show with my students, or hosting a Beg & Borrow drop, it’s always about creating experiences that feel relatable and genuine. Fashion has this instant gratification and power to bring people together, and I love leaning into that. Right now, I’m excited about evolving Beg & Borrow through a new DTC model that minimizes overhead and focuses on mutually beneficial relationships for everyone involved.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. Who taught you the most about work?
So, New York City taught me the most about work. When I was working in wholesale—most fav. at Seamless Showroom—I was thrown into this fast-paced, competitive side of the fashion industry where you had to hustle, adapt, and deliver… or someone else would replace me. A tough love lesson early on, but necessary and so thankful my Seamless girls were the chosen teachers!! NY was intense and the city still has my heart, but ultimately I thrived, and it furthered my Memphis ‘grit n’ grind,’ resilience, and I truly learned to understand the power of relationships. Those lessons still shape how I approach everything today, from Styled by LD to growing Beg & Borrow, and all the local businesses I work with in between. My first job was at age 16 at a boutique Indigo, and they deserve a lot of credit! Also, my friend, former business partner and mentor Monte Stewart definitely deserves a shout out – thanks Monte!!
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I’d tell younger Lauren to trust the process and stop rushing. The setbacks, the detours, even the failures—they all add up to something bigger. We can only control ourselves, not others, so logical/practical expectations require you to take a beat, pause. The work you’re doing matters, but the relationships you build along the way may just open those heavy doors. Oh, and show up like you already have it – be intentional and prepared. If you’re making big girl moves, accept the responsibility of being a big girl, too.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. Is the public version of you the real you?
Yes, very much so. I’m cool knowing I’m not for everybody, just like every trend is not meant for every body. The only way I can sustain and scale this life is by fully owning who I am, and being unapologetic about it. It’s a lot easier to maintain, and honestly, it’s a profitable practice.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. When do you feel most at peace?
Fortunately, I love my job, so choosing to work with all my individually, unique clients is a peaceful, creative outlet. Every morning I have the same routine, allowing myself me-time to not rush, and leave for the day fully prepared. I love peaceful, solo mornings.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.styledbyld.com/ https://begandborrowapparel.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/styledbyld/ https://www.instagram.com/begandborrowapparel/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-draffin-19a99a26/
