Neither Here Nor There

Just a few life updates and fleeting thoughts on this lovely long weekend... 

1. My first week of work is behind me and I can't tell you how much I love Bollare. I'm working with really cool people and really cool brands (here, here, and here — lend them a "like," won't you?) and I'm learning something new every day. Isn't that what it's all about?

2. My brother Grayson is getting ready to apply to college and it's bringing back all sorts of memories. I want him to wind up at Bucknell so badly but I think it's best not to push the issue.

3. Knowing that some of my friends are back at school and I'm out in the real world is such a strange feeling. Seeing pictures of rush festivities pop up on Facebook definitely tugged at my heartstrings. But I'm really happy with where I am right now — and there's always Homecoming!

4. Confession: I've spent hours researching apartments in New York even though I know I can't afford to move into the city right away. It's just fun to know what's out there! 

5. On a related note, the worst part of working in New York is my commute from Connecticut. An hour train ride each way plus time on the subway. The bright side, though, is plenty of time to read books and magazines. I finished Outliers by Malcolm Gladwell this week and I highly recommend it.

6. I'm insanely and unattractively jealous of everyone who's going to New York Fashion Week. Seeing a show is on my 101 in 1001 list and I'm determined to make it happen in time for next year.

7. I'm not sure where my new Tumblr is headed but I'm loving it so far! Won't you follow along? Remember, you can ask me anything! I've already gotten a few questions ranging from advice for studying abroad to how to store makeup.

8. I have a couple really fun interviews lined up to bring Design Dialogues back with a bang this fall. It's my way of bringing you original content without having my boyfriend follow me around with a camera documenting my outfit changes ;)

- - -

I'm kind of all over the place today, huh? What's new with all of you?

Just a few life updates and fleeting thoughts on this lovely long weekend... 

1. My first week of work is behind me and I can't tell you how much I love Bollare. I'm working with really cool people and really cool brands (here, here, and here — lend them a "like," won't you?) and I'm learning something new every day. Isn't that what it's all about?

2. My brother Grayson is getting ready to apply to college and it's bringing back all sorts of memories. I want him to wind up at Bucknell so badly but I think it's best not to push the issue.

3. Knowing that some of my friends are back at school and I'm out in the real world is such a strange feeling. Seeing pictures of rush festivities pop up on Facebook definitely tugged at my heartstrings. But I'm really happy with where I am right now — and there's always Homecoming!

4. Confession: I've spent hours researching apartments in New York even though I know I can't afford to move into the city right away. It's just fun to know what's out there! 

5. On a related note, the worst part of working in New York is my commute from Connecticut. An hour train ride each way plus time on the subway. The bright side, though, is plenty of time to read books and magazines. I finished Outliers by Malcolm Gladwell this week and I highly recommend it.

6. I'm insanely and unattractively jealous of everyone who's going to New York Fashion Week. Seeing a show is on my 101 in 1001 list and I'm determined to make it happen in time for next year.

7. I'm not sure where my new Tumblr is headed but I'm loving it so far! Won't you follow along? Remember, you can ask me anything! I've already gotten a few questions ranging from advice for studying abroad to how to store makeup.

8. I have a couple really fun interviews lined up to bring Design Dialogues back with a bang this fall. It's my way of bringing you original content without having my boyfriend follow me around with a camera documenting my outfit changes ;)

- - -

I'm kind of all over the place today, huh? What's new with all of you?

And the winner is...

My apologies for the delay in announcing the winner of the Plum Pretty Sugar giveaway. Here we go...

Congratulations to entry #3, Alex of Things That Sparkle! Please email me so I can put you in touch with the lovely Charlotte to redeem your beautiful new robe. Thanks to everyone who entered and have a wonderful long weekend!

My apologies for the delay in announcing the winner of the Plum Pretty Sugar giveaway. Here we go...

Congratulations to entry #3, Alex of Things That Sparkle! Please email me so I can put you in touch with the lovely Charlotte to redeem your beautiful new robe. Thanks to everyone who entered and have a wonderful long weekend!

Desk du Jour {Back to Black}

In complete contrast to Tuesday's light and bright office tour, I thought I'd share a few of my favorite black and white spaces. As much as I adore white walls, there is something so graphic about colorful book spines tucked into black bookcases. Maybe it's all about striking a balance, like the black and white stripes in the second space or the black moulding and white ceiling in the third. What do you think — would you dare to paint your walls black?

{via here}

In complete contrast to Tuesday's light and bright office tour, I thought I'd share a few of my favorite black and white spaces. As much as I adore white walls, there is something so graphic about colorful book spines tucked into black bookcases. Maybe it's all about striking a balance, like the black and white stripes in the second space or the black moulding and white ceiling in the third. What do you think — would you dare to paint your walls black?

{via here}

Apartment Essentials {Art}

When I announced this series, an overwhelming number of you expressed the need for affordable art options to cover bare walls and introduce color without breaking the bank. Here are a few of the tricks up my sleeve...

{Christian Chaize, $50+}

20x200 is an excellent source for limited edition prints in various sizes. A 14"x11" print like this ubiquitous Christian Chaize number (which, for the record, I still love) will run you $50.

{Janet Hill, $26}

I adore the Etsy offerings of painter Janet Hill, whose vintage-inspired prints would be a playful addition to any interior. Nothing in her shop costs more than $55 and this charming print of a well-clad redhead is just $26! Frame it in gold with a green matte and you're good to go.

{Sarah Tucker, $18}

This Swiss blogger stocks her shop with travel photography that will lend an esteemed air to a simple studio. These peonies, which Sarah photographed in Zurich, are a personal favorite.

{Emma Leonard, $25}

Prefer sketches to paintings and photos? This Australian illustrator's work is breathtakingly precise. I'm drawn to this messy topknot — how perfect for in a closet or powder room!

{Leah Goren, $40}

One of my favorite solutions is to frame a colorful scarf. This hand-painted option (currently sold out but I believe can be custom ordered) would be particularly cheery in a breakfast nook or a foyer.

{Vera Neumann, $46}

Framable options abound at The Lucky Fish. This vintage Vera Neumann scarf is a graphic statement piece that could easily inspire the color palette for your entire space. 

{Amber Interiors}

I have featured Amber's dining room before but the fact that she took pictures of clouds and blew them up for her dining room continues to strike my fancy. In fact she makes me want to run to Kinko's with some of my Instagram snaps. Think travel pictures, family portraits, the sky's the limit!

- - -

If you'd prefer a DIY project, I might suggest painting panels or framing wallpaper. What's your favorite art resource and how are you covering your walls these days?

When I announced this series, an overwhelming number of you expressed the need for affordable art options to cover bare walls and introduce color without breaking the bank. Here are a few of the tricks up my sleeve...

{Christian Chaize, $50+}

20x200 is an excellent source for limited edition prints in various sizes. A 14"x11" print like this ubiquitous Christian Chaize number (which, for the record, I still love) will run you $50.

{Janet Hill, $26}

I adore the Etsy offerings of painter Janet Hill, whose vintage-inspired prints would be a playful addition to any interior. Nothing in her shop costs more than $55 and this charming print of a well-clad redhead is just $26! Frame it in gold with a green matte and you're good to go.

{Sarah Tucker, $18}

This Swiss blogger stocks her shop with travel photography that will lend an esteemed air to a simple studio. These peonies, which Sarah photographed in Zurich, are a personal favorite.

{Emma Leonard, $25}

Prefer sketches to paintings and photos? This Australian illustrator's work is breathtakingly precise. I'm drawn to this messy topknot — how perfect for in a closet or powder room!

{Leah Goren, $40}

One of my favorite solutions is to frame a colorful scarf. This hand-painted option (currently sold out but I believe can be custom ordered) would be particularly cheery in a breakfast nook or a foyer.

{Vera Neumann, $46}

Framable options abound at The Lucky Fish. This vintage Vera Neumann scarf is a graphic statement piece that could easily inspire the color palette for your entire space. 

{Amber Interiors}

I have featured Amber's dining room before but the fact that she took pictures of clouds and blew them up for her dining room continues to strike my fancy. In fact she makes me want to run to Kinko's with some of my Instagram snaps. Think travel pictures, family portraits, the sky's the limit!

- - -

If you'd prefer a DIY project, I might suggest painting panels or framing wallpaper. What's your favorite art resource and how are you covering your walls these days?

Plum Pretty Sugar Giveaway!

I was so delighted when the lovely Charlotte reached out to me about hosting a giveaway for her "loungerie" line Plum Pretty Sugar. I have been following her blog and her Pinterest for quite some time and just adore her unabashedly feminine aesthetic!

Charlotte's line incorporates cotton and silk robes, tunics and dresses, and accessories like headscarves and even bow ties for men. I am excited to be giving away one knee-length cotton voile robe in "Sweet Love and Yonderflies!" I'd wear it around the house and getting dolled up for a night on the town. Girly and glamorous!

To enter the giveaway, please follow Design Darling and like Plum Pretty Sugar on Facebook. Simply leave a comment below letting me know you've done both!

I will draw the winner on Friday morning. Good luck!

I was so delighted when the lovely Charlotte reached out to me about hosting a giveaway for her "loungerie" line Plum Pretty Sugar. I have been following her blog and her Pinterest for quite some time and just adore her unabashedly feminine aesthetic!

Charlotte's line incorporates cotton and silk robes, tunics and dresses, and accessories like headscarves and even bow ties for men. I am excited to be giving away one knee-length cotton voile robe in "Sweet Love and Yonderflies!" I'd wear it around the house and getting dolled up for a night on the town. Girly and glamorous!

To enter the giveaway, please follow Design Darling and like Plum Pretty Sugar on Facebook. Simply leave a comment below letting me know you've done both!

I will draw the winner on Friday morning. Good luck!

The Coveteur + Who What Wear

When two major names like these join forces, you just know it's going to be good. The Coveteur's photo tour of Who What Wear's L.A. headquarters is true to both brands: clear, crisp, and dripping with style.

I think it hits the perfect note between contemporary and vintage pieces, don't you? I love that the most eye-catching decorations are inspiration boards — it means that each room has a new look every time you update that one board! Summer brights, jewel tones for fall...those white walls are a blank canvas!

When two major names like these join forces, you just know it's going to be good. The Coveteur's photo tour of Who What Wear's L.A. headquarters is true to both brands: clear, crisp, and dripping with style.

I think it hits the perfect note between contemporary and vintage pieces, don't you? I love that the most eye-catching decorations are inspiration boards — it means that each room has a new look every time you update that one board! Summer brights, jewel tones for fall...those white walls are a blank canvas!

Soaking Up Summer

I've had an amazing week on Nantucket and I'll be making the most of this effortless beach hair every last minute on the island. What are your plans for this most wonderful weekend?

P.S. All you east coasters, stay safe this weekend! 

{images via my Pinterest boards}

I've had an amazing week on Nantucket and I'll be making the most of this effortless beach hair every last minute on the island. What are your plans for this most wonderful weekend?

P.S. All you east coasters, stay safe this weekend! 

{images via my Pinterest boards}

Idea Board {Apartment Living}

I wouldn't be me if I didn't admit to a little daydream decorating of our currently nonexistent first apartment. For now I'm content to live with my family and save my pennies. But when the time comes? White walls, painted furniture, and metallic accents with a decidedly feminine flourish. Who's with me?

I wouldn't be me if I didn't admit to a little daydream decorating of our currently nonexistent first apartment. For now I'm content to live with my family and save my pennies. But when the time comes? White walls, painted furniture, and metallic accents with a decidedly feminine flourish. Who's with me?

Apartment Essentials {The Rug}

Problem: your apartment/dorm room carpet has seen better days. Solution: camouflage it with a chic and cost-effective option from Rugs USA. They were kind enough to send the Ultra Shag Natural Flokati rug my way and I absolutely love it! It will undoubtedly be a fixture in our first apartment whether it's concealing icky carpet or warming up hardwood floors. 

Rugs are investment pieces and can cost you big bucks if you don't know where to look. Fortunately Rugs USA has an amazing and affordable selection complete with customer reviews so you know you're getting the most for your money. The rug they sent me is super soft and totally versatile. Sure, flokati isn't the easiest thing to keep clean — but when it looks and feels this good, who's complaining? Of course if flokati's not your choice there's plenty else to choose from...

{Leopard print, $119+}

{Overdyed, $545}

{Striped, $70+}

{Trellis, $109+}

Do you see where I'm going with this? No matter what look you're after, I'm certain you'll find something you love at Rugs USA. They were a dream to work with and frankly their selection is the best I've come across to date. 

But don't just take my word for it. My puppy Fenway is equally obsessed!

Problem: your apartment/dorm room carpet has seen better days. Solution: camouflage it with a chic and cost-effective option from Rugs USA. They were kind enough to send the Ultra Shag Natural Flokati rug my way and I absolutely love it! It will undoubtedly be a fixture in our first apartment whether it's concealing icky carpet or warming up hardwood floors. 

Rugs are investment pieces and can cost you big bucks if you don't know where to look. Fortunately Rugs USA has an amazing and affordable selection complete with customer reviews so you know you're getting the most for your money. The rug they sent me is super soft and totally versatile. Sure, flokati isn't the easiest thing to keep clean — but when it looks and feels this good, who's complaining? Of course if flokati's not your choice there's plenty else to choose from...

{Leopard print, $119+}

{Overdyed, $545}

{Striped, $70+}

{Trellis, $109+}

Do you see where I'm going with this? No matter what look you're after, I'm certain you'll find something you love at Rugs USA. They were a dream to work with and frankly their selection is the best I've come across to date. 

But don't just take my word for it. My puppy Fenway is equally obsessed!

Flower Power

One summer during high school, I worked at a flower shop out here on Nantucket. Well, the flower shop. It wound up being my only summer as an employee there (probably because I missed the clothing discounts that came with working in retail) but I'll always look back fondly on the time I spent cutting in flowers and delivering bouquets to hotels on the island. Flowers just make people so happy! They're beautiful, fragrant, and indulgent in a way that's not at all superficial. Pop by your favorite florist this evening and treat yourself to a few fresh blooms — you deserve it!

*Photograph by Sarah Tucker for sale HERE. Thank you Victoria for the source!

One summer during high school, I worked at a flower shop out here on Nantucket. Well, the flower shop. It wound up being my only summer as an employee there (probably because I missed the clothing discounts that came with working in retail) but I'll always look back fondly on the time I spent cutting in flowers and delivering bouquets to hotels on the island. Flowers just make people so happy! They're beautiful, fragrant, and indulgent in a way that's not at all superficial. Pop by your favorite florist this evening and treat yourself to a few fresh blooms — you deserve it!

*Photograph by Sarah Tucker for sale HERE. Thank you Victoria for the source!