Design Darling

Tortoiseshell Glasses

Have you noticed that every celebrity and fashion blogger is most often photographed in sunglasses? I think there's a rhyme to their reason. Here are a few pairs I wouldn't mind adding to my collection (perhaps a post-launch gift to myself?)...

ONE Karen Walker, $180

TWO House of Harlow, $125

THREE Urban Outfitters, $16

FOUR C. Wonder, $68

FIVE Elizabeth & James, $180

Whether you're screening yourself from the sun, keeping yourself from squinting, or mugging for the camera, there's a pair of tortoiseshell glasses for everyone! Which pair is your favorite?

Faux Calligraphy

One of the tasks on my 101 in 1001 list is to take a calligraphy lesson. Since that's not exactly in the cards right now, I was absolutely thrilled to stumble upon this tutorial for "faux calligraphy" from Jones Design Company via Pinterest.

{photos taken with Instagram}

I played around with different scripts and I have to say I love the way they turned out! In fact I'm afraid I've created a monster ;) Of course it's not as good as the real deal but it'll definitely tide me over... and give me a reason to keep practicing!

{The Romper} Love it or leave it?

I expect you'll all have mixed reviews of today's post but I'm dying to know where you stand! I think rompers are an adorable alternative to dresses and skirts — and super comfy to boot!

findersKEEPERS romper, $110

I love this playful halter romper — I want to wear it for the Fourth of July!

Dolce Vita romper, $220

This is a more office-appropriate option with a blouse top and striped bottoms. So cute, right?

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So would you ever wear a romper? Do chime in!

Instagram Updates

Sneak peek alert! These pillows for my new boutique arrived this morning and I love them so much I might have to save a few for myself! Make sure you're following me on Instagram (mackenziehoran) and Twitter (@mackenziehoran) for more sneak peeks.

Sometimes the weekends call for coffee ice cream and a new coffee table book. I bought this one on Joss & Main and loved reading about preppy style icons and Polo ad campaigns from back in the day.

My mom and I picked up a few things from Old Navy and I can't wait to wear everything we found! Boatneck tee in light blue and navy (for just $14 — hello, no brainer!) and hot pink maxi skirt ($25) that is absolutely adorable in person!

I'm keeping up with the February Photo A Day Challenge. Here's what you need to join in and be sure to follow along with #febphotoaday!

Matchbook Magazine February 2012

I was thrilled to contribute to the impressive anniversary issue of Matchbook. The editors' letter made me tear up, the market picks were flawless as usual, and I got to interview design icons Jonathan Adler and Jules Reid! It's such an honor to be part of this inspiring publication and I do hope you'll all sit down with the new issue when you have a moment. If only for that shot of the Greenbrier Resort... I think my new favorite color combination involves mint green, gold, and hot pink! ;)

Yours Truly on Stripes & Sequins!

Won't you please pop over to Stripes & Sequins today? Grace writes an adorable blog, does social media for Bauble Bar (#major), and was sweet enough to ask little ole me a few questions about my new business! Go say hi!

Rebecca Minkoff Wheelie Travel Bag

Natural leather exterior, polka dot lining, retractable handle... It's the most perfect suitcase I ever did see!

It'll cost you a pretty penny but it's the kind of investment piece you'd keep forever! Find it HERE.

Kate Spade Cuties

One of the many tweets I read from Alt Summit suggested that bloggers make a list of their top ten favorite brands with whom they'd like to collaborate. I thought it was an interesting idea and definitely one I want to focus on as my blog expands. And of course Kate Spade made the list...

iPhone case, $40 / Sparkly clutch, $155

Sparkly studs, $98 / Bow clutch, $178

Bow sandals, $225 / Sparkly bow heels, $325

Spade bangle, $88

What brands would make your top ten list?

Handbag Dreamin'

One of the more indulgent items on my 101 in 1001 list is to buy my first "grown-up" handbag. I'm on a bit of a shopping hiatus with the impending launch of my new boutique but I do hope to "invest" in the near future...