Men's Style Monday: The Best Dress Shirt

Hands down the best mens shirt for the price is Nordstrom's SmartCare Dress Shirt. Made by Nordstrom's own brand, this high-quality shirt is reasonably priced starting at $49.50 (and often can be found on sale) and is the most maintenance-free mens shirt I have ever encountered. It literally comes out of the dryer looking like it has just been pressed, with the sleeves neatly creased and everything! These shirts come in a variety of colors and patterns that vary seasonally and are also available in two fits:: Traditional/Classic and Tailor-Fit.
Pictured::

• The Nordstrom Smartcare™ Traditional Fit Dress Shirt in Pink (also in Orange and Light Blue) is currently on a 50% sale for only $31.90 online.
• Nordstrom Smartcare™ Classic Fit Pinpoint Dress Shirt in Pinpoint Dress Shirt in Light Blue, $49.50.
  

Stylishly yours,
Lauren
www.editbylauren.com

Color Me Beautiful!

A rainbow of colors has landed in stores this season. Bright colors are no longer just for springtime and summer! As fall approaches and you transition your wardrobe, be sure to keep out some of your bright-colored tees, tanks and accessories from the summer. Pinks, corals, tangerines, yellows, turquoise, purples and neon brights are all in fashion for Fall. These colors will act perfect layering pieces for the fall. For instance, layer a bright tank under a black or gray cardigan for a punch of color as the cooler weather approaches. Don't be afraid to mix up two or three colors in an outfit. Try unexpected color-combos to add a twist to your everyday look. Main point:: This is a great way to maximize what is already in your closet! It's creative, fun and economical to experiment with ways to wear some of your favorite spring/summer wardrobe pieces into autumn.

Pictured::

• Nine West Dolly Flat in Lt. Green (also available in blue and pink), $19.99.
• The Limited Skinny Patent Belt in Orange (also available in other colors), $19.50.
• ToyWatch 'Plasteramic Collection' Fluorescent Watch, in Purple, $195.
  

Stylishly yours,
Lauren
www.editbylauren.com

The Best List: Scarf-Hanger

Since every true fashionable is building up her fabulous scarf collection for this Fall, having an organized storage system is a must! Good news:: I've found the best scarf-hanger! The Container Store's Scarf Hanger provides 28 holes of snag-free storage for a mere $5.99 investment. Getting dressed and accessorized in a jiffy is just so much easier when you can see all your options clearly!

Stylishly yours,
Lauren
www.editbylauren.com

Brilliant Bracelets

Three accessorizing trends of the approaching Fall season are layered pieces, pearls and pave. The Soiree Pave Bracelets, recently featured in U.S. Magazine (pictured), perfectly incorporate all three trends. These bracelets look great worn either as a single or layered together. And at $29, they make a cost-conscious stylish yet timeless investment and also a fab gift for any lady! 4 colors to choose from (or to layer together):: Ivory, Grey, Champagne and Brown. To order:: www.stelladot.com/editbylauren

Stylishly yours,
Lauren
www.editbylauren.com

Men's Style Monday, Fall Trend Alert: Bold Plaids

Outdoorsy guys, it's your season! The 2009 fall trends have you in mind. Native American prints, bold plaids and cozy thermals have inspired men's fall trending and layering of plaid, thermals, cargos and boots has never been cooler (or shall I say, hotter?!). These shirts can't help but inspire you to get out in nature and embark on an adventure!

Pictured:

• What Comes Around Goes Around "Dunbar" Contrast Plaid Shirt (Bloomingdales, $198).
• Sovereign Code 'Decided' Plaid Shirt (Nordstrom, $59.50).
• Salt Valley Plaid Roll-Up Sleeve Work Shirt, available in 3 colors (Urban Outfitters, $48).
  

Stay tuned for upcoming posts on the best cargos, thermals and boots the next few weeks...

Stylishly yours,
Lauren
www.editbylauren.com

Seven Jeans at Costco!

News-flash!! This is just in:: Seven Jeans are currently available at Costco for a remarkable price of just $89! They were spotted at the Costco on Ashford Dunwoody (near Perimeter Mall) in Atlanta, but should be at other Costco's nationwide. Make sure you call your local Costco to double check before driving there. (Thanks @laurenepsy for the tip!)

Stylishly yours,

Lauren

www.editbylauren.com

P.S. Please post a comment if you find Seven's at your local Costco...

It's the Time to Think White!

It's the best time of year to purchase white jeans. Why? It's the end of summer so the price-tags on most things white are being slashed. White jeans are one of the most essential (in fact, they are Edit by Lauren's TOP 10 list!) wardrobe items you can own! And since white jeans are no longer limited to late spring and summer (thanks to the "new rules" of fashion) you can wear them with confidence throughout the Fall season! Try pairing your white jeans this Fall with purples and jewel-tones, chambray and denim for a more masculine, equestrian look (think Ralph Lauren) or with the Boho prints of the season. Mix it up by pairing white jeans with boots (even cowboy boots), peep toe heels or metallic flats. This is the time to make an investment that will carry you through next year! Take note that most in-store white jean selections are picked over by this point in the season, so your best luck at finding a variety of styles and sizes is to shop online. When shopping online, remember that white is a less forgiving color than blue denim, so you may need to go up a size or order a pair with stretch to leave some extra room in the waist, thighs and derriere. Tight and white are not a good combo! :)

Some places to shop white denim sales:

• Not Your Daughter's Jeans® Tummy Tuck® Rhinestone Bootcut Jeans (marked down from $128 to $63.90 )::at Nordstrom
• The Blanc Essential Jean (marked down from $78 to $49.99)::at White House Black Market
• Earnest Sewn Ali Bootcut Jean (marked down from $186 to $74.40)
• paperdenim&cloth 'Audrey' Cigarette Leg Stretch Jeans (marked down from $95 to $62.90):: at Nordstrom

For additional sales, try shopping the White Denim selection at ShopBop.com!

Stylishly yours,

Lauren

www.editbylauren.com

Belt It

A great belt is a must-have for this fall. Skinny, wide and everything in-between is "in vogue" this season. Make sure that you have at least one great belt that wraps well around the small of your waist. Regardless of body type or size, this part of the waist is universally flattering to emphasize. Think outside the box when it comes to what you belt:: try belting tunics and oversized shirts, add a belt over jackets or cardigans, or accessorize a plain shift dress with a belt for a new look. A skinny belt even looks cool wrapped around a the "tails" neck-draped scarf. Stuck with basic black and brown belts in your closet? Experiment with metallic or unique colored belt to add that unexpected dimension to your outfit. Like I always say, accessories are the most inexpensive, simple way to immediately transform your wardrobe. With a few new accessories this season, including a new belt or two, you can quickly update your look using the clothes you already own.

Pictured: The Ceres Snakeskin Belt ($14), The High Sierres Belt in Gray ($17) and The Braided Larlat Tie in Gold and Blue ($11). All available at lulus.com.

Stylishly yours,

Lauren

www.editbylauren.com

Skin Therapy

I love sharing my favorite beauty and cosmetic products from time to time. This one is gender-neutral, so all you gentlemen should keep on reading! I've recently discovered the best Exfoliating Cream I have ever tried (and I have tried dozens over the years!): Micro Exfoliating Cream by Therapy Systems. (Therapy Systems is a way- cool Skincare and Cosmetic Store in Nashville, TN.) I am convinced that regular exfoliation is a key ingredient in smooth, radiant, beautiful skin. This product is amazing!! Ladies, your makeup will apply smoother and your face will instantly look more luminous. Men, your shave will be much closer and smoother after using this exfoliating cream. At $48, it certainly isn't inexpensive, however, the cream is so concentrated that a jar should easily last a year. I love it when I find a product that gives professional results at home!

Stylishly yours,
Lauren
www.editbylauren.com

Men's Style Monday: Suiting Tips

A suit is one of the most essential items in a man's closet. It's also one of the common wardrobe mishaps for men. Here's a few pointers when it comes to wearing a suit with proper style:
1. The first place to look for proper fit is the shoulder. You want to make sure the shoulder of the suit does not extend past your own natural shoulder but that you have a full range of motion throughout the shoulder when the jacket is buttoned.
2. Most men wear their suit sleeves too long. The sleeve of your jacket should cover your wrist, not your hand. About a half-inch of shirt sleeve should show beneath that.
3. Don't be afraid to wear brown shoes with a navy suit. They are a chic alternative to black. In fact, a navy suit is the most essential suit you can own, since it looks great any time of year.
4. Wear ties only with dress shirts, not with sports shirts. Dress shirts are sized to one's neck and arm measurements. Sports shirts are sized S,M,L and XL and are generally meant to be worn unbuttoned without a tie. You want to make sure you can fit two fingers into your buttoned collar for comfort and proper fit.

Stylishly yours,
Lauren
www.editbylauren.com

Terrific Tunics at Kohls

The Tunic is a classic Fall staple. Pair with slim pants, skinny-jeans or leggings, and cinch at the waist with a skinny or wide belt to custom-make a effortlessly stylish and comfortable tunic outfit. (Perfect for those inevitable "bloated-feeling" days! Also a great transitional maternity piece!)
Kohl's in currently carrying a line of cute tunics by Dana Buchman. I love the "gypsy" prints of both the pictured tunics...another fall trend! Most of this line is 40-50% off this week! Pictured: Dana Buchman Leaf Tunic and Dana Buchman Striped Tunic.

Both are currently $39 (originally $52). You'll find more styles in store.

Shop BR TONIGHT, August 13th, After 5PM

Make plans to shop the "After 5" event at Banana Republic tonight, August 13th. BR stores nation-wide are offering 25% off the entire store (plus an additional 5% if you use your BR card) for all purchases made after 5pm. Complementary refreshments will be served at selected stores. Offer is also valid online from 5:01pm to 11:59pm EST. Enter code EVENT25 at checkout.

Happy Shopping!
Lauren
www.editbylauren.com

Men's Style Monday (a day late!): The Chambray Shirt

Sorry I missed the Men's Style Monday update on Monday! I was in transit to Nashville where I am working this week (love it!). The Chambray Shirt is a trusty favorite that has made a comeback as an urban trendsetter this Fall. This classic shirt resembles denim but is soft and wearable. Layer it under a blazer, sweater or military style jacket. Pair it with cords, khakis or a darker pair blue jeans (just make sure you stay away from pairing together same/similar shades of denim!!).
Check out: J.Crew's Vintage Chambray Utility Shirt (available in several shades), the Rag & Bone Chambray Sport Shirt at Saks and the Koto Chambray Western Shirt at Urban Outfitters (currently on clearence!).

Stylishly yours (from Nashvegas!),
Lauren
www.editbylauren.com

The Stella & Dot Fall Preview Sale:: ENDS AUGUST 10!

Just two more days to save 25% on four gorgeous pieces from Stella & Dot's fabulous fall line! Don't miss out of the Preview Sale Savings! Prices will go up on the 11th!
1. Avery Chains and Pearls Necklace:: 5 antiqued silver plated chains dripping with freshwater pearls. By combining the pearls with chain, this necklace updates the classic pearl. It's very "David Yurman" meets "Rocker-Chic." One of my absolute favorites in this season's line. Sale Price: $51.75 (regularly $69)
2. Della Triple-Strand Necklace:: Three strands of glass pearls, faceted and smoky glass beads. An absolutely gorgeous necklace that perfectly aligns with the trends of Fall '09 that looks like it costs way more than it actually does! Sale Price: $73.50 (regularly $98)
3. Black/Silver Bloom Flower Ring:: Hand-painted enamel flowers with Czech crystals. Adjustable silver plated band, fits ring sizes 5-9. Whether dressed up or down, wearing a whimsical "pop" on your finger is just lovely! Sale Price: $33 (regularly $44)
4. Grace Pearl Bauble Bracelet::Over 100 champagne and ivory faux pearls create a shimmering classic. Reminiscent of something you might find in your grandmother's jewelry box, this bracelet couldn't be more stunning and timeless. Sale Price: $66.75 (regularly $89)

Note: To take advantage of these sale prices, you must go to www.stelladot.com/editbylauren and select "Lauren Lefevre" as your hostess. Make sure your order is submitted by midnight August 10!

Stylishly yours,
Lauren
www.editbylauren.com

Super Summer Sale at SAGE!

Make sure you make time to swing by one of Sage's three Atlanta locations tomorrow, Saturday, August 8th, for its Super Summer Sale. Sage will be discounting ALL summer clothes, sandals and accessories by 50%, in order to make room for new fall arrivals. Locations include The Avenue Forsyth, Midtown Brookwood Place and Buckhead Market Place. For directions and store info, visit SageClothing.com.

Happy Sale Shopping!
Lauren
www.editbylauren.com

The Color Purple

Purple, in all shades, textures and tones, is the "it" color for Fall 2009. Virtually everyone can find a shade of purple flattering on their individual skin-tone. I love pairing purple with blacks and grays. Try adding a touch of golden yellow or turquoise in a necklace, scarf or pair of shoes for an unexpected pop of color. Pictured: Urban Outfitter's Silence & Noise Colorblock Back Cowl Dress ($48) and Nu by Mark Anthony Beaded Jersey Halter Top ($125).

Stylishly yours,
Lauren
www.editbylauren.com

The Iconic Little Black Dress

The color black is the "new black" for Fall this year and the iconic little black dress is more current than ever! That's really good news for all of us who have already have a perfect black dress hanging in our closets...time to pull it out and re-wear with some updated accessories! Pairing your black dress with glam jewelry is totally hot this season. Think back to the deco style jewelry of the 30's: pave, rhinestones, pearls and lots of sparkle. (Pictured: Adrianne Chain Earrings ($39),
Claudette Pave Bracelet ($59), Heirloom Deco Bracelet($89). )Don't be afraid to pile on necklaces or bracelets for a layered look. In need of a little black dress? Check out Banana Republic's fabulous new black dress collection (BR Monogram Black Ruffle-Bib Dress, $180, is pictured). I love the versatility of Studio M Flutter-Sleeve Matte Jersey Wrap Dress (pictured, available at Macy's for $69.89)...it's the ideal dress to go from day to night. I just love it when a timeless wardrobe staple, such as the little black dress, becomes the investment-worthy "trend" of the season!

Stylishly yours,
Lauren
www.editbylauren.com

Men's Style Monday: Ralph Lauren Sale

Since it's quite impossible to own too many Polo shirts, this is the the time of year to stock up! Virtually every color of the Classic Polo by Ralph Lauren are on sale at RalphLauren.com for $49.99 instead of the $75 regular price. The newer Slim-Custom Fit Polo (pictured in Soft Aqua) is a great, more tailored fit for guys with slim waistlines. While you are on the Ralph Lauren website, be sure to check out the other sale items. Many items are an additional 25% off the clearence price, such as the Slim Custom-Fit Mended Polo (pictured in Resort Orange) which totals only $37.50 after the double mark-down. Ladies, it's also a great time to buy ahead for birthday or Christmas gifts for the men in your life.

Stylishly yours,
Lauren
www.editbylauren.com