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Jess LC Jewelry

Diversey Enamel Post Earrings
Astor Bead Strand Necklace
Astor Cluster Bib Necklace
Aren't these pieces just gorgeous? They make me proud to be a Jess LC ambassador. The owner, Jess Constable, is a charming Chicago business owner whose blog and collections never fail to inspire. Affordable baubles, bright colors, customizable sizes, and the opportunity to support a fellow blogger? I'm sold ;)

Style Icon {Nicole Richie}

She's grown up a lot since The Simple Life, hasn't she? Wavy tresses, floor-length dresses, and fistfuls of costume jewelry... Nicole Richie has a casually chic style that's all her own.

Amy Claire on Swirl


We all love Daily Candy. But did you know they've launched their own private sale website as well? It's called Swirl and suffice it to say I'm obsessed. I find that their selection is better curated than those of other invite-only sales (Gilt, Hautelook, and Rue La La to name a few) and more tailored to items I would actually wear or, more importantly, brands I can actually afford. Take today's sale on Amy Claire for instance: easy separates, cocktail dresses, and floor-length numbers for up to 75% off? Sign me up!

Karen Appleton

Crush
Melt
Ginkgo
I'm seriously smitten with these oil paintings by Chicago artist Karen Appleton. I happened to stumble upon the last painting on Patterson Maker's lovely tumblr and subsequently fell in love with the rest of Karen's work. The colors are so beautifully nuanced and the subject matter nothing short of girlish whimsy. For more information, check out her website and her blog.

Happy Weekend!

What a week! These are two of my favorite street style photos because, in addition to the super sleek black get-ups,  they seem so natural. We girls are always walking arm in arm, chatting about n'importe quoi. Go have yourself a happy weekend full of laughter and girl talk! Do you have any plans?

My Dream Studio

I can't get over the pictures of this dreamy studio designed by David Hicks for Australian fashion designer Alannah Hill. Exposed beam ceilings, whitewashed wood floors, and ultra-feminine fittings like chandeliers, velvet upholstery, and fresh flowers make this ideal inspiration for my dream studio. Wouldn't it be lovely to work in such a chic environment? Oh, the things I would accomplish!

Leontine Linens


One day I'll rest my head on a gorgeous monogrammed pillow from Leontine Linens. In the mean time, I'm content to swoon over every last item on their beautiful website. While I've long admired the southern charm of their signature monograms, I promise their ladylike offerings for bath, gifts, and table are equally delightful. 

Tied With A Bow

 These pretty little rings ($68) from Coach are my obsession du jour. Equal parts playful and preppy, I think they're just darling. Now to choose... Navy and white or fuchsia and red? I think both have found their way to the top of my wishlist!

The New Traditionalists

I'm excited to introduce you all to a lovely new sponsor. The New Traditionalists is a design firm that fuses classic silhouettes and modern personality. I had the chance to stop by their Soho showroom when I was in New York for the Rue party and The Nate Berkus Show and I was completely blown away. 
Each design is completed in the Soho studio and manufactured in a Connecticut factory to ensure quality control and minimize environmental impact. All wood is sustainably harvested and finished with non-toxic materials. Love that!
Their showroom is full of gorgeous pieces of furniture and art. My favorite artist featured in their studio is Chris Callahan, who (lucky for all of us!) recently opened an Etsy shop where he sells his stunning photography.
Sunbathers - 18 x 18
I'm totally hung up on this 18" x 18" print of Sunbathers, available in his shop for $65. 
Every beautiful piece on their website can be made to your custom specifications: size, color, finish, fabric, upholstery, and hardware.
The New Traditionalists is an offshoot of children's design firm Duc Duc, whose heirloom quality cribs and changing tables are similarly environmentally friendly and completely customizable. 
Don't you love the red frame around this Chris Callahan photo? 
Brooklyn Bridge - 16 x 24
A 16" x 24" print of Brooklyn Bridge can be yours for $75.
While seeing the pieces in person was nothing short of divine, I'm equally in love with the illustrated versions featured on their website. Rendered by the artists who also design the furniture, these sketches are art in their own right! I'm partial to Chair No. 29, Credenza No. 225, Side Table No. 12, and Dresser No. 9
 
The New Traditionalists is an open showroom for interior designers who may use the space for meetings with clients. They also throw fabulous parties and invite stylish bloggers and designers in to style vignettes for bars or desks. I hope you love their work as much as I do!

Interested in sponsoring Design Darling? Sponsorship includes one 150x150 ad on the sidebar and one featured post. For details, please email me at mhoran@optonline.net.

Equestrian Inspiration

Did you see the stunning photos that Sarah posted earlier this week? Shot by Mario Sierra, this editorial encompasses everything I have grown up loving about equestrian influences in fashion. My mother worked for Ralph Lauren for 19 years and I have long admired the navy blazer, jodhpur pant, and brown riding boot look that's so very perfect for fall. I was fortunate to intern there the summer before last and I can safely say that my love for equestrian fashion is here to stay!