>

Because I Love Lists...

...I thought I would share a few more tasks on my 101 in 1,001 list. To do in the next 2.75 years:

13. Go skinny dipping.

18. Buy my parents an Apple computer. Because, really, everyone should have one.

26. Watch the Mad Men series from start to present.

37. See a new Cirque du Soleil performance. (Ah-mazing.)

48. Take a cooking lesson.

Currently Coveting

A darling pair of earrings ($37)...
...And a coral coffee table topper (say that five times fast — $60) to remind me that summer's not so far off.

Not-Too-Girly Gray

I love the understated femininity of this vanity designed by Amy D. Morris. The use of gray is glamorous but neutral; it's the shape of the chair that feels most graceful. It's a look that any boyfriend or husband could appreciate, don't you think?

Preppy Is Pretty

I pledge to remember forever that preppy is pretty, no matter your age. Oxford shirts, riding boots, and tailored blazers — you have always done me right.
{one | two | three}

Rue Blog!

Here's a sneak peek of what I'm blogging about today over at Rue! It's hard to live up to the blogging greats (ahem, Cassie and Erin) but I'm certainly going to do my best. 
I'm beyond flattered to be on this talented team of Rue bloggers; I do hope you'll check us out and bookmark it for future reference! With a lineup this good, it's sure to become your go-to for design inspiration between issues ; )

Ilse Jacobsen & Splendid Willow!

I am elated to announce my dear friend and January sponsor Monika's newest venture! Mon is the sweetheart behind Splendid Willow and recently began selling gorgeous Ilse Jacobsen rainwear in her own online shop. I could not be more proud of her — or more in love with her product! The lace-up boots ($149-$179) are handmade in Denmark and available in a variety of happy colors sure to turn even your darkest day around. Consider the investment a one-way ticket to European effortless chic!

The Tonal Table

These table settings from Style Me Pretty are a reminder that monochromatic minimalism can be devastatingly chic. Whether you employ the dusty pink palette of the first or the earthy khaki hues of the last, just add a dose of sparkle and then let the food and your guests provide the color.

Front & Center

Style.com recently did a slideshow of behind-the-scenes pictures of Fashion Week regulars. How darling is this shot of supermodel Natalia Vodianova at Chanel? From her wavy bob to her ladylike heels, everything about it is perfection.

Redesign Update

Several of you have asked about the progress of my blog redesign. Well, after a bit of commotion around here, I'm changing the game plan and heading in an exciting new direction. Thanks to a recommendation from the darling Lindsay of The Pursuit of Style (whose new site is nothing short of stunning!), I am beyond thrilled to announce my collaboration with Hanna Nation of Gadabout.
In addition to launching her own iPhone app (genius!) and designing gorgeous custom stationery, Hanna is helping me breathe new life into Design Darling with a new header, new layout, new Twitter page, and my first business cards to boot! I am so excited to be working with her and so anxious to show you what we've got up our sleeves. In the meantime, do peruse her site and treat yourself to some new social paper — aren't her designs to die for?

Outfit Inspiration

It can be hard to stay stylish when the temperatures drop, but it would be wrong to welcome a new year in sweatpants and Ugg boots! Here's a little inspiration for a cozy outfit that looks pulled together without trying to hard. Just grab your winter coat on the way out the door and you're good to go!