Design Darling

Apartment Inspiration

I know I haven't landed my first full-time job yet and I certainly haven't started looking at New York apartments but that doesn't mean I can't dream decorate, does it? I stumbled upon the work of Benjamin Noriega-Ortiz this morning and thought it was too good not to share.

I'm all about the hardwood flooring, white furniture, and tan leather accents. Of course all that natural light doesn't hurt either. What does your apartment — real or imaginary – look like these days?

New arrivals at K. Slademade!

In addition to the favorites I raved about here, the darling Kelsea has introduced limited edition ikat clutches to her K. Slademade collection! I could tell you how much I love them but, really, I think they speak for themselves...

Cute, right? They're $78 each and you can find them right here. Shop to it!

Currently Coveting {ASOS}

I cannot thank you enough for your kind words on yesterday's post. If you were rolling your eyes the whole time, worry not. Today it's back to fashion and I have some very important news to deliver: I am officially obsessed with ASOS. They offer lovely ladylike silhouettes and prices that can't be beat. In other words, it's the perfect resource for college students and young professionals who need to look sharp without breaking the bank.

{$43}

Mark my words: the pussybow blouse is going to be everywhere for fall. Get a head start with this cream option, which pairs well with colored denim now and a navy schoolboy blazer later.

{$60}

How chic is this textured fit-and-flare dress? The scoop neck and nipped-in waist are ultra-flattering. And the color is called "dazzling blue!" Sold.

{$13}

Yes, you read that right. These darling turquoise earrings are just $13! I mean, how could you not?

{$60}

Top it with the pussybow blouse above; you'll be office-appropriate and ready for happy hour. This reminds me of Anne Cramer's Flynn skirt...just, you know, $100 cheaper.

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Every girl needs a pair of chunky gold earrings in her jewelry rotation. This pair looks vintage but comes cheap.

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These red pants mimic J.Crew's classic Minnies but save you $27. Hey, every penny counts, right?

I'm coming home, I'm coming home...!

After two months interning at Rue in San Francisco, I am wrapping up and getting ready to return to the east coast on Monday. I have learned so much here and will be eternally grateful to Crystal and the rest of the team for the opportunity to experience a new city and the early days of a start-up company that I know has real potential.

By the same token, I am so ready for what's next. I cannot wait to get home, reconnect with my family and friends, and hit the ground running in search of my first full-time job in New York City. I have a few irons in the fire and I am optimistic that something truly wonderful will fall into place.

Thank you for continuing to show up here each day and to comment when you see something you love. Blogging has been a happy constant in an otherwise very in flux stage for me and it's something I too often take for granted. Design Darling will always be first and foremost about fun fashion and inspiring interiors, but it comforts me to know that lots of you are in the boat as I am, trying to figure out what to do with the rest of your lives and how to have some fun doing it.

I look forward to whatever the future has in store for all of us. Cheers to the next adventure!

{image & quotes}

Adorable Stationery + Exclusive Discount!

How darling are these air mail-inspired custom thank you notes? They start at just $1.10 per card depending on the quantity you order. But get ready for this! Amy, the owner, is graciously extending 25% with the code "darling" from now through August 15. For that, I'll expect a thank you note.

What are you waiting for?

It is never too early — or too late — to create a life you love.

Wait for nothing.

{image & quote}

Look Mom, I'm in Matchbook!

Just popping in to share a bit of fun press! I'm in fantastic company in the "Matchbook Investigates" feature of Matchbook Magazine's stellar seventh issue.

We were each asked about our favorite vacation spot and anyone who's read my about page already knows my answer:

A big thank you to the Matchbook girls for reaching out and including me in an issue that features fashion standouts like Atlantic-Pacific's Blair Eadie and Milly's Michelle Smith. To say I'm flattered would be an epic understatement!

P.S. How badly do I need a new headshot? I'm embarrassed to admit how old this one is ;) Definitely a task for the 101 in 1001 list!

Recent Acquisitions

{Dani Notes monogrammed tray ($34) & Graphic Image business card case ($41)}

I literally squealed when I unwrapped my new melamine tray. They are completely customizable and make great gifts too! My new business card case already came in handy at the San Francisco design blogger meet-up last week (see pictures here).

{Chance Co. shirt ($60) & K. Slademade clutch ($54)}

This striped boatneck shirt has been a gateway drug. Suddenly the only things I want to wear are striped! Hey, I'm not complaining. I recommend ordering one size up. My new K. Slademade clutch comes with me literally everywhere I go and fits the necessities (chapstick, keys, phone, wallet) with room to spare.

{Bibbon eye mask, $35}

This baby gets a picture of its own. You know why? Because it has changed my life. I have a tough time falling asleep most nights (running through my to do list and tomorrow's obligations) and distractions like light and sound don't help. I might not look cool with my ear plugs and eye mask, but hey, whatever helps you sleep at night. I literally could not recommend Bonnie's custom eye masks more highly.

{Vintage earrings}

My mom and I found these fun sparklers at the Alameda Flea Market, enabling me to cross "buy something at a flea market" from my 101 in 1001 list. The best part? They were only $12!

{Kate's Paperie notebooks ($17 each) & Graphic Image address book ($64)}

These eco-friendly recycled leather notebooks come in every color under the sun and my citrusy-hued choices will come in handy for many a to do list. My new address book also checks off a 101 in 1001 task and comes in the most beautiful buttery yellow leather. Swoon.

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So, darlings, do dish: what are some of your recent acquisitions?

Downright dreamy.

That's how I would describe the magic that's happening over at The Coveteur. It's not merely sneak peeks into well-adorned closets. It's brilliant styling, excellent composition, and the fact that I leave not only coveting the clothes and accessories but eagerly awaiting the next feature as well. These snaps of jewelry designer Maryam Keyhani's Toronto home recently had my heart racing...

Very Parisian chic, n'est-ce pas?

Let's get some shoes.

Specifically, shoes of the leopard/nude/tan variety. Truthfully, my cowboy boots and Reva flats could use the day off and any of these would make an ideal substitute.