Men's Style Monday: Try TOMS this Spring/Summer.

Most of you are familar with TOMS shoes by now: An awesome company that donates a pair of shoes to a child in need for every pair purchased. I like TOMS for a cool, comfy and casual look for men, especially for the warm Spring/Summer months. Plus, who isn't for supporting such a great cause? My favorite pair for men this season? The "Burlap Woven" TOMS, priced at $48. I also like the "Navy Canvas Stitchout" style, priced at $58. Although there are some store locations listed on the website, I recommend ordering online for the best variety. One more thing: TOMS are a unique gift for that hard-to-shop-for-man on your list.

Stylishly yours,
Lauren
www.editbylauren.com

Buy to Earn More Shoes!

DSW is hands-down one of my favorite places to shop for shoes. This shoe warehouse never fails to carry a great selection of soles both in-store and on-line. One of the best things about DSW is their free Rewards Program, which allows you to earn points on every purchase. Points quickly turn into gift-certificates towards future purchases. For instance, just last week, I used my earned points to deduct $30 off a pair of already deeply discounted shoes...which meant the store practically gave away the shoes to me, turning me into an even more loyal and satisfied customer! Here's a reason to hurry into DSW and sign up to earn rewards this weekend: Today through Sunday (March 29), DSW is rewarding two points to the dollar for each purchase (in store or on web). Another sweet deal: DSW is offering free shipping for online purchases over $29 with promotion code FSDSW. I love this (pictured) Embellished "Minimal Gladiator" Sandal by Madden Girl I found on DSW.com for only $39.95.

Happy Shoe Shopping!

Lauren

www.editbylauren.com

Clearly a Fashion Fix-It

Are you as tired as I am of your jeans gapping in the back? Or constantly tugging your pants up as they slip down on your hips over and over? I am personally very excited about a new, invisable solution to these common wardrobe woes: The IsABelt. The IsABelt is a thin, strong and flexible belt, that virtually disappears when worn, providing you with the assurance that all is secure without even knowing it's there. This fashion fix-it has been been receiving plenty of press latley, on everything from The Today Show to magazines like People, Glamour and Real Simple. It's available for order online for only $16.95. In my book, a fashion fix-it is always in-style!

Stylishly yours,
Lauren
www.editbylauren.com

Brand New: Men's Style Mondays

Starting today, Monday posts will be dedicated to Men's Style. Please spread the word to the men in your life...

A hot look emphasized this season for men of all ages are Retro Sunglasses. Too many people underestimate the importance of a great-looking pair of shades. (Remember "great-looking" does not have to entail breaking the bank!) It's important to keep in mind that sunglasses are an accessory that you wear everyday, with everything, that nearly everyone sees you in...so why not pick a pair that highlights your own style?

When shopping for a "retro" pair of shades, I recommend narrowing your search into two categories: either a sleek Aviator style or a plastic framed "Wayfarer" look. Both of these styles have remained classic through the past few decades, and will keep their good looks for years to come.

Two pairs I particularly like are pictured, both from Banana Republic. Most of Banana's men's sunglasses are discounted online right now!

Here's to sunny days and new shades!

Lauren

www.editbylauren.com

It's Officially SPRING!

Today, March 20, is the officially first day of Spring! Now you can start wearing all those bright-colors, open-toed shoes and white pants you've been dying to...although, I must admit, I've already broken in all three in before today! Here's to sunshine, blooming flowers, flip-flops and days spent outdoors!

Happy Spring!
Lauren
www.editbylauren.com

Did you notice on American Idol...

...that Ryan Secrest was sporting a tie-bar on both Tuesday and Wednesday nights this week?! I am sure Simon would (naturally) not like it, but I have to give Ryan props...his suit looked great both shows! (See March 13th post.)

Stylishly Yours,

Lauren

www.editbylauren.com

Ruffles!

Ruffles are all the rage this season. Ruffles are popping up on shirts, dresses, skirt, shoes and handbags everywhere. I particularly like ruffled blouses and shirts because they are a super cute way to transition from Spring into Summer since they look awesome under cardigans and jackets. Look for ruffles that fall in the center of a shirt to ensure both figure flattery (think: hiding a large bust or midsection) and so that they peek out when worn underneath another layer. The shirts two pictured are from the BP department in Nordstrom and are each under $35. Speaking of Nordstorm, if you are a Nordstrom card holder, today through this Sunday, Nordstrom is offering triple points on every purchase, which is pretty unbelievable! 

Stylishly yours,

Lauren

www.editbylauren.com

In a Hurry for Hayden-Harnett

The Hayden-Harnett for Target line of purses is on clearance now. And while the Brooklyn-based designer duo's handbags are going fast, you may be able to snag one either online or at a Target store near you, before it's too late. I love the angular design and bold hardware of these bags. My favorite is the rectangular convertible clutch (pictured) that can be used with the strap or without as a hand-held clutch. This clutch is oversized, which is very "in," and more than roomy enough for everything you need for a night on the town. It's available in black and brown.


Happy (Purse) Hunting!
Lauren
www.editbylauren.com

Get Lucky at Sage

In honor of St. Patrick's Day, Sage Clothing is offering an easy way to get lucky. You don't even need a four-leaf clover! Just mention the word "LUCKY" at check-out at any of Sage's three Atlanta locations and receive a whopping 25% off your entire purchase. Offer is valid today, Saturday, March 14th, through Tuesday, March 17th.

Happy Shopping!
Lauren
www.editbylauren.com

Calling All Men: Try a Tie-Bar This Season

The tie-bar (also known as the tie-clip) is making a serious statement in the men's suiting arena this season. It's a classic and useful little accessory that adds a little extra pizazz to any shirt and tie combo. Try a simple silver tie-bar to spruce up either a suit or a more casual ensemble. Two to check out: Kenneth Cole Reaction clips at Macy's are on sale for $22.50 and J.Crew has a sophisticated sterling silver bar available (online only) for $85.

P.S. If you are a regular reader, you might notice this is the first "man-specific" post so far. Stay tuned for weekly men's style updates!

Stylishly yours,
Lauren
www.editbylauren.com

HairDo News

I am excited to report on a GREAT first experience I had today at a local salon (well, local for me!) in Suwanee, GA called Genesis Salon. I was uber impressed with the salon's service, environment and value. The price was unbelievable! Where else in the Atlanta-area can you receive a 2.5 hour partial highlight, including blow-out and style for $45?! In my book, that is pretty much unheard of! Genesis is the "daughter" of Salon 124 (think of it as the New Talents of the famed Van Michael's Salon). Riley, a cute young blond gal, was my stylist and I highly recommend her. In fact, if you book an appointment with Riley and tell her I referred you, you will receive $5 off your appointment. Hair cuts for both men and women range from $27-$37. I like to think that less money spent on my hair means more towards my Spring wardrobe! Cheers to good deals!

Your bargain-loving stylist,

Lauren

www.editbylauren.com

The Return of the Jean Jacket

Good news jean jacket lovers...the denim jacket has returned as a major fashion staple this Spring! You will find a variety of colors and styles of this all-American jacket hitting the racks at stores near you. The trick is to wear your jean jacket a bit snugger and slimmer than you might have worn it in past seasons. Try going down a jacket size or even buying a children/boy size. I personally like to wear denim jackets with some stretch in the fabric, making them more comfortable to wear, especially in the shoulders and arms! Although pretty much any and every color jacket is "in" this season, my favs are dark denim and white jean jackets. This will be a purchase you certainly won't regret and will wear with practically anything. Don't be afraid to try pairing your jacket with unexpected items in your wardrobe. The white jean jacket in photo is from Ann Taylor LOFT and is reasonably priced at $59.50. This cute cropped jean jacket is made by Levi's and is currently on clearance on the Levi's website for a mere $39.98!

Stylishly yours,

Lauren

www.editbylauren.com

Makeup Freebies at Nordstrom this week!!

Here's a strong incentive to discard your dated makeup and to pick up some new Spring colors: Spend $50 in the Nordstrom beauty department between March 5-8 and receive your pick of two premium (think Laura Mercier) samples! I'll be there to purchase some Bobbi bronzer and blush, to begin working on my faux "just been in the sun "glow"!

Stylishly yours,

Lauren

www.editbylauren.com