Hidden Gems: Meet Lauren Draffin of Beg & Borrow Apparel

Today we’d like to introduce you to Lauren Draffin

Hi Lauren, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I grew up in Memphis, TN, and moved to New York City after college to pursue fashion—straight into the heart of the industry. As a naive Southerner, I quickly learned that NYC either clicks with you or it doesn’t—I thrived, finding my backbone as a creative. Most of my work was wholesale, as a showroom rep, selling various brands while traveling to various cities opening retail accounts. But quite possibly, my favorite job was my last while living there, working at a tech + fashion start up.

In 2012, I returned to Memphis, took a short-lived women’s buying gig at a local, high-end retailer, and soon pivoted into men’s fashion as a custom clothier. That’s when I met my business partner of over a decade, Monte Stewart. Over the next few years, I explored different roles before fully stepping into entrepreneurship in 2016 with my wardrobe styling business, Styled by LD. In 2020, Monte and I relaunched Beg & Borrow Apparel, selling both direct-to-consumer and wholesale. Fast forward to September of 2024, my partner retired and I bought the business. Beg & Borrow is now in 3 states, selling off the rack in multiple retail stores.

My experience spans wardrobe styling, personal shopping, branding, creative direction, bridal styling, higher ed, and more. I served on the Memphis Fashion Week board for six years and led ‘freeze models’ and local retailers for eight. With over 20 years in fashion—both wholesale and retail—I’ve also managed social media teams for local businesses. I am an adjunct professor at the University of Memphis, and have taught in the Fashion Merchandising program for almost 4 years.

Every failure has shaped my journey, and I believe a creative’s greatest achievement can be the comeback. Growth comes from challenges, and the people who stick with you through those challenges matter most. Be intentional with your choices—you set the standard for how you’re treated.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The path hasn’t been easy. I’ve been told no more times than I can count, felt so much financial pressure, and had moments where I questioned everything. Building something from the ground up—especially in a cut-throat, creative field—means constantly proving yourself, adapting, and pushing forward even when the odds may not be in your favor. But every setback refined my vision, toughened my resilience, and ultimately led me to where I am today. Success isn’t just about talent—it’s about persistence, learning from failure, and surrounding yourself with likeminded creatives or people that know more than you!

We’ve been impressed with Beg & Borrow Apparel, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Beg & Borrow, is where classic style meets unapologetic edge. We design high-quality, versatile pieces that command attention, or don’t if you’re ‘not into fashion’ 😎 —effortless, sharp, and made to be lived in.

What sets BB apart? We don’t chase trends; we personalize them. Our brand is built on authenticity, precision, and personal connection. For me, the ‘boob lock’ feature on each shirt and dress style is a major contender, eliminating the dreaded boob gape! Once you get your hands on one, it’s almost impossible to not order another, AND our entire ‘core collection’ is machine washable, so you don’t have to additionally dry clean! Oh, and each style is named after family and friends, which has been really fun and dramatic! So, whether selling direct-to-consumer or wholesale, styling off-the-rack or customizing individual pieces, Beg & Borrow crafts wardrobes that simplify getting dressed for the day.

I’m so proud of the community around Beg & Borrow—this isn’t just fashion, it’s a movement. Style should be bold, intentional, and sustainably built to last—and I’m willing to bet, every one of our BB customers would agree.

Where do you see things going in the next 5-10 years?
The fashion industry is in the midst of a major evolution, and the next 5–10 years will be all about adaptability, authenticity, and purpose-driven design.
Think, Quality over Quantity. Consumers are moving away from fast fashion and investing in fewer, better pieces. People want style that feels uniquely theirs.
Sustainability should be a standard! Ethical production and responsible sourcing won’t just be a trend, but expected. The traditional retail model is shifting. More brands will bypass middlemen and focus on direct connections with their audience, offering exclusivity and deeper engagement. Studies prove that younger generations are buying into brands with a voice, a community, and a clear identity..

Pricing:

• Core Collection Girlies $165-$265
• Custom opening price point $185
• Host a ‘Style Edit Party’ and invite all your girlfriends over for cocktails and a little creative sesh! Hostess receive a free custom piece and guests have access to exclusive pricing!
• Suiting opening price point $995

Contact Info:

• Website: https://begandborrowapparel.com/ and https://www.styledbyld.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/begandborrowapparel and https://www.instagram.com/styledbyld
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/styledbyld1
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-draffin
• Other: https://smart.bio/styledbyld/