101 IN 1001 UPDATE!

I was happy to see on last week's feedback post that one of your favorite features is an occasional update on my 101 in 1001 list. (If you're new here, I'm keeping a list of 101 things I'd like to do in 1001 days!) I am more than happy to oblige — I love having a list of goals (some personal, some professional, some just for fun!) and constantly refer to it when I feel like I'm in a rut. 

If I hang out with a friend who's feeling a little down personally or professionally, writing a 101 in 1001 list is always the first thing I suggest. Whenever I'm not feeling like my usual self, I look at my list and decide which goals I should try to cross off next. The mix of silly tasks and big dreams really helps me take advantage of my free time and focus on the right goals for work. As of my last update in May, I had crossed off 13 goals; since then, I've crossed off seven more for a grand total of 20. Here's what I've been up to:

32. Hire interns.

Taryn started in May and has been a huge help managing inventory on the website, placing new wholesale orders, and tackling other projects as they come up. Mary Claire just joined us this week and will be working on zhushing up the product descriptions on the site among other things! Both of them are a dream to work with and have totally reinvigorated my excitement about taking Design Darling to the next level!

42. See a TED Talk live.

I went to the TEDx Times Square event in May! I got to hear Deepak Chopra speak and met a ton of cool people between talks. You can register for their next event here!

59. Walk the Brooklyn Bridge.

Finally did this with Grayson, Will, and our friends Jane and Scottie after my housewarming brunch in May! Highly recommend whether you're visiting or you've lived here for years.

73. Rent Vespas on Nantucket.

Easily the most fun thing I've crossed off so far! I was terrified at first but eventually got the hang of it and it was SUCH a fun way to see the island. So grateful for my adventurous friends!

91. Play mini golf.

Did this in Austin! I beat Will (mwahaha) and got a hole-in-one. Making my dad proud!

92. Go to an amusement park.

We were stuck in traffic on our way home from a wedding in Pennsylvania and spontaneously veered off toward Six Flags. Hilarious photo evidence here.

93. Learn to open a bottle of champagne.

I'm slowly trying to come around to wine (it's just never been my favorite!) so I'm easing into it with champagne, prosecco, and rosé. Jane taught me how to open a bottle at my brunch!

P.S. If you decide to write your own 101 in 1001 list, tweet me and I'll add the link at the bottom of my list!

I was happy to see on last week's feedback post that one of your favorite features is an occasional update on my 101 in 1001 list. (If you're new here, I'm keeping a list of 101 things I'd like to do in 1001 days!) I am more than happy to oblige — I love having a list of goals (some personal, some professional, some just for fun!) and constantly refer to it when I feel like I'm in a rut. 

If I hang out with a friend who's feeling a little down personally or professionally, writing a 101 in 1001 list is always the first thing I suggest. Whenever I'm not feeling like my usual self, I look at my list and decide which goals I should try to cross off next. The mix of silly tasks and big dreams really helps me take advantage of my free time and focus on the right goals for work. As of my last update in May, I had crossed off 13 goals; since then, I've crossed off seven more for a grand total of 20. Here's what I've been up to:

32. Hire interns.

Taryn started in May and has been a huge help managing inventory on the website, placing new wholesale orders, and tackling other projects as they come up. Mary Claire just joined us this week and will be working on zhushing up the product descriptions on the site among other things! Both of them are a dream to work with and have totally reinvigorated my excitement about taking Design Darling to the next level!

42. See a TED Talk live.

I went to the TEDx Times Square event in May! I got to hear Deepak Chopra speak and met a ton of cool people between talks. You can register for their next event here!

59. Walk the Brooklyn Bridge.

Finally did this with Grayson, Will, and our friends Jane and Scottie after my housewarming brunch in May! Highly recommend whether you're visiting or you've lived here for years.

73. Rent Vespas on Nantucket.

Easily the most fun thing I've crossed off so far! I was terrified at first but eventually got the hang of it and it was SUCH a fun way to see the island. So grateful for my adventurous friends!

91. Play mini golf.

Did this in Austin! I beat Will (mwahaha) and got a hole-in-one. Making my dad proud!

92. Go to an amusement park.

We were stuck in traffic on our way home from a wedding in Pennsylvania and spontaneously veered off toward Six Flags. Hilarious photo evidence here.

93. Learn to open a bottle of champagne.

I'm slowly trying to come around to wine (it's just never been my favorite!) so I'm easing into it with champagne, prosecco, and rosé. Jane taught me how to open a bottle at my brunch!

P.S. If you decide to write your own 101 in 1001 list, tweet me and I'll add the link at the bottom of my list!

WEEKEND READING

1. Come see what's new!

2. Eager to watch Chelsea Handler's new show.

3. Five ways to prepare for your next interview.

4. Good shoe buy: perforated loafers by Yosi Samra, who makes the comfiest ballet flats known to womankind. (Seen in this post!)

5. Have you watched The Conversation? I'm obsessed. It covers so much of the content I'd like to share here on Design Darling in a really compelling way. I've embedded the first episode above!

6. I've been loving the decorating updates on Rachel's colorful home.

7. Is there anything more perfect than a bicycle with a basket? No, there is not.

8. Liz is the cutest.

9. Loved this menswear look.

10. Should I buy this skirt?

11. This t-shirt is $15. You'll want it in every color.

12. What I'd wear in my improbable Sound of Music-esque fantasy life where I'm frolicking around the Swiss countryside. One day... ;)

1. Come see what's new!

2. Eager to watch Chelsea Handler's new show.

3. Five ways to prepare for your next interview.

4. Good shoe buy: perforated loafers by Yosi Samra, who makes the comfiest ballet flats known to womankind. (Seen in this post!)

5. Have you watched The Conversation? I'm obsessed. It covers so much of the content I'd like to share here on Design Darling in a really compelling way. I've embedded the first episode above!

6. I've been loving the decorating updates on Rachel's colorful home.

7. Is there anything more perfect than a bicycle with a basket? No, there is not.

8. Liz is the cutest.

9. Loved this menswear look.

10. Should I buy this skirt?

11. This t-shirt is $15. You'll want it in every color.

12. What I'd wear in my improbable Sound of Music-esque fantasy life where I'm frolicking around the Swiss countryside. One day... ;)

WHERE TO EAT ON NANTUCKET

First of all, a huge THANK YOU for your comments on yesterday's post. Every single comment (and email!) was super helpful to me in shaping the content on Design Darling in the months and years to come. Now back to the posts you requested most!

One of the most frequent questions I'm asked every summer is what to do and where to eat on Nantucket. I've been to the island every summer since I was born and I love bringing new friends there for the first time. Both my parents and my grandmother have homes there so I'm lucky to have lots of reasons to visit throughout the year. I've posted about Nantucket probably a million times (here, here, here, and here for starters!) but here are a few pictures from my most recent weekend trip as well as a list of some of my favorite restaurants on the island.

Millie's

Guacamole, fish tacos, and margaritas in a more quiet part of the island. Bonus points: you might get my brother Grayson as a waiter! ;)

Galley Beach 

Best for cocktails at sunset but often closed for wedding receptions so be sure to call ahead! Also a perfect brunch spot if you bring sunscreen. Eating a lobster roll with your toes in the sand? Heaven on earth.

Other favorite spots:

- The outdoor patio at The Brotherhood (two words: curly fries)

- Brunch at Black Eyed Susan's

- Ice cream cones at The Juice Bar (I dream about their homemade cookie dough...)

- The deck at Queequeg's (perfect spot to share a bottle of rosé pre-Juice Bar #healthyhabits)

- 'Sconset Market (we used to sneak out of church early to pick up their famous blueberry muffins!) 

Have you been to Nantucket? What places would you add to the list? I could use a few new recommendations for our next trip in July!

*photos by Amy Stone and from my Instagram

First of all, a huge THANK YOU for your comments on yesterday's post. Every single comment (and email!) was super helpful to me in shaping the content on Design Darling in the months and years to come. Now back to the posts you requested most!

One of the most frequent questions I'm asked every summer is what to do and where to eat on Nantucket. I've been to the island every summer since I was born and I love bringing new friends there for the first time. Both my parents and my grandmother have homes there so I'm lucky to have lots of reasons to visit throughout the year. I've posted about Nantucket probably a million times (here, here, here, and here for starters!) but here are a few pictures from my most recent weekend trip as well as a list of some of my favorite restaurants on the island.

Millie's

Guacamole, fish tacos, and margaritas in a more quiet part of the island. Bonus points: you might get my brother Grayson as a waiter! ;)

Galley Beach 

Best for cocktails at sunset but often closed for wedding receptions so be sure to call ahead! Also a perfect brunch spot if you bring sunscreen. Eating a lobster roll with your toes in the sand? Heaven on earth.

Other favorite spots:

- The outdoor patio at The Brotherhood (two words: curly fries)

- Brunch at Black Eyed Susan's

- Ice cream cones at The Juice Bar (I dream about their homemade cookie dough...)

- The deck at Queequeg's (perfect spot to share a bottle of rosé pre-Juice Bar #healthyhabits)

- 'Sconset Market (we used to sneak out of church early to pick up their famous blueberry muffins!) 

Have you been to Nantucket? What places would you add to the list? I could use a few new recommendations for our next trip in July!

*photos by Amy Stone and from my Instagram

WOULD LOVE YOUR FEEDBACK!

*photo from an awesome new-to-me blog, Paige Arminta

For almost five years now, Design Darling has been my digital happy place — a reason to share my favorite people, places, and things with a community of (mostly) women who have similar interests and taste. This little sliver of the internet has grown up with me: I've shared everything from my study abroad semester at 20 and moving to San Francisco at 21 to launching my online store at 22, weathering a tough break-up at 23, and sharing my first New York apartment at 24.

Along the way I've gotten more comfortable sharing glimpses of my personal style, professional milestones, and goals I've tackled as part of my 101 in 1001 list. I've also struggled with where to draw the line on sharing pieces of my personal life... Travel pictures, yes; dating advice, no. I've consistently tried to make this blog a home for the kind of content I want to read, particularly with the recent additions of career spotlights on some of my favorite women in business and shopping finds under $100.

In my continual quest for self-improvement, I'd love to hear your feedback on what you like, what you want more of, and what you could do without. This blog would be nothing without the awesome people who read it and I want to make Design Darling better for all of you. (Especially as I get ready to launch my site redesign — more on that soon!) I'm often surprised by which posts perform best (in terms of comments, social engagement, traffic from Pinterest, etc.) and I'd be lying if I said I don't get discouraged when a career spotlight, DIY project, or more personal post don't seem to resonate the way I thought they would. 

So please don't be afraid to speak up and let me know: what's your favorite feature? anything from the past you wish I'd bring back? any features you skip over? something you've seen elsewhere that you'd like to see a Design Darling spin on? what makes you come to this blog day in and day out? what would make you check in more often? what do you wish I'd do differently? Please keep it constructive but don't be afraid to be honest with me. I'm looking forward to hearing what you have to say!

*photo from an awesome new-to-me blog, Paige Arminta

For almost five years now, Design Darling has been my digital happy place — a reason to share my favorite people, places, and things with a community of (mostly) women who have similar interests and taste. This little sliver of the internet has grown up with me: I've shared everything from my study abroad semester at 20 and moving to San Francisco at 21 to launching my online store at 22, weathering a tough break-up at 23, and sharing my first New York apartment at 24.

Along the way I've gotten more comfortable sharing glimpses of my personal style, professional milestones, and goals I've tackled as part of my 101 in 1001 list. I've also struggled with where to draw the line on sharing pieces of my personal life... Travel pictures, yes; dating advice, no. I've consistently tried to make this blog a home for the kind of content I want to read, particularly with the recent additions of career spotlights on some of my favorite women in business and shopping finds under $100.

In my continual quest for self-improvement, I'd love to hear your feedback on what you like, what you want more of, and what you could do without. This blog would be nothing without the awesome people who read it and I want to make Design Darling better for all of you. (Especially as I get ready to launch my site redesign — more on that soon!) I'm often surprised by which posts perform best (in terms of comments, social engagement, traffic from Pinterest, etc.) and I'd be lying if I said I don't get discouraged when a career spotlight, DIY project, or more personal post don't seem to resonate the way I thought they would. 

So please don't be afraid to speak up and let me know: what's your favorite feature? anything from the past you wish I'd bring back? any features you skip over? something you've seen elsewhere that you'd like to see a Design Darling spin on? what makes you come to this blog day in and day out? what would make you check in more often? what do you wish I'd do differently? Please keep it constructive but don't be afraid to be honest with me. I'm looking forward to hearing what you have to say!

OUTFIT {STRIPES IN 'SCONSET}

This Old Navy maxi dress was the perfect choice for a stroll around 'Sconset last weekend. Between the gorgeous homes, manicured lawns, and ocean views, 'Sconset is my absolute favorite spot in Nantucket and always a favorite place to bring first time visitors. My mom grew up spending summers in a house on Baxter Road and it's fun to retrace her old stomping grounds. I've yet to bring a friend who didn't immediately fall in love!

Remember this Kate Spade tote? It's the perfect size for two beach towels and a bottle of sunscreen. Sadly it was too cold to spend all day on the beach but it was nice to dip our toes in the Atlantic after the longest winter ever. Just another reason to get back to the island in July... :)

I've worn this monogrammed necklace every day since it arrived... I love the idea of a personalized piece for everyday wear that also layers well with more statement-making pieces. (See also: this monogrammed cuff.)

A girl can never own too many Jack Rogers. I've long since lost count of how many pairs I've worn into the ground over the years but I can safely say there's no more sound investment for your summer wardrobe. 

Isn't the tulip hem pretty? I picked up a couple other Old Navy goodies for summer and intend to spend the summer in their easy breezy everyday dresses. Paired with chic tortoiseshell sunnies and classic gold Jacks, you really can't go wrong.

Old Navy maxi dress c/o  //  Krewe du Optic sunglasses c/o  //  Kate Spade bag c/o

Monogrammed necklace c/o  //  Double pearl ring (only $20!)  //  Jack Rogers sandals

This post was sponsored by Old Navy. Check out Old Navy's latest fashion lineup in store or online at oldnavy.com.

This Old Navy maxi dress was the perfect choice for a stroll around 'Sconset last weekend. Between the gorgeous homes, manicured lawns, and ocean views, 'Sconset is my absolute favorite spot in Nantucket and always a favorite place to bring first time visitors. My mom grew up spending summers in a house on Baxter Road and it's fun to retrace her old stomping grounds. I've yet to bring a friend who didn't immediately fall in love!

Remember this Kate Spade tote? It's the perfect size for two beach towels and a bottle of sunscreen. Sadly it was too cold to spend all day on the beach but it was nice to dip our toes in the Atlantic after the longest winter ever. Just another reason to get back to the island in July... :)

I've worn this monogrammed necklace every day since it arrived... I love the idea of a personalized piece for everyday wear that also layers well with more statement-making pieces. (See also: this monogrammed cuff.)

A girl can never own too many Jack Rogers. I've long since lost count of how many pairs I've worn into the ground over the years but I can safely say there's no more sound investment for your summer wardrobe. 

Isn't the tulip hem pretty? I picked up a couple other Old Navy goodies for summer and intend to spend the summer in their easy breezy everyday dresses. Paired with chic tortoiseshell sunnies and classic gold Jacks, you really can't go wrong.

Old Navy maxi dress c/o  //  Krewe du Optic sunglasses c/o  //  Kate Spade bag c/o

Monogrammed necklace c/o  //  Double pearl ring (only $20!)  //  Jack Rogers sandals

This post was sponsored by Old Navy. Check out Old Navy's latest fashion lineup in store or online at oldnavy.com.

NEW YORK CITY GUIDE: THE BUTCHER'S DAUGHTER

What: Brunch at The Butcher's Daughter, a café and juice bar

Wearing: Vintage Ray-Bans, t-shirt dress (last worn here), Converse kicks

Where: 19 Kenmare Street, Nolita

Why: Beautiful branding. Friendly service. Healthy beverages and gluten-free groceries in the juice bar next door. Outdoor seating. Yummy avocado toast.

Need more recommendations? Check out my ongoing New York City guide here.

What: Brunch at The Butcher's Daughter, a café and juice bar

Wearing: Vintage Ray-Bans, t-shirt dress (last worn here), Converse kicks

Where: 19 Kenmare Street, Nolita

Why: Beautiful branding. Friendly service. Healthy beverages and gluten-free groceries in the juice bar next door. Outdoor seating. Yummy avocado toast.

Need more recommendations? Check out my ongoing New York City guide here.

SUMMER TREND: TASSELS

One of my favorite summer trends is tassels on accessories, clothing, and decor. I'm obsessed! Tassels aren't so much "trendy" as they is a resurgence of a classic motif... which means you can invest in a few pieces knowing they won't be out of style next season. Here are a few of my favorite tassels at the moment:

one  //  two  //  three  //  four  //  five  //  six  //  seven  //  eight

nine  //  ten  //  eleven  //  twelve  //  thirteen  //  fourteen  //  fifteen

I truly can't get enough: I'm loving tassel earrings, this neutral tassel chandelier (budget-friendly version here), these tassel curtains (I have the shower version), a pair of classic tassel loafers, this Tory Burch tassel handbag... The list goes on. Have you purchased any tassels yet? What other summer trends are you loving?

One of my favorite summer trends is tassels on accessories, clothing, and decor. I'm obsessed! Tassels aren't so much "trendy" as they is a resurgence of a classic motif... which means you can invest in a few pieces knowing they won't be out of style next season. Here are a few of my favorite tassels at the moment:

one  //  two  //  three  //  four  //  five  //  six  //  seven  //  eight

nine  //  ten  //  eleven  //  twelve  //  thirteen  //  fourteen  //  fifteen

I truly can't get enough: I'm loving tassel earrings, this neutral tassel chandelier (budget-friendly version here), these tassel curtains (I have the shower version), a pair of classic tassel loafers, this Tory Burch tassel handbag... The list goes on. Have you purchased any tassels yet? What other summer trends are you loving?

WEEKEND READING

1. A ladylike midi skirt for $79.

2. An incredible work of art.

3. Build your own gin-and-tonic bar. Yes please!

4. Can't even handle this dress.

5. Cleaning hacks for your kitchen.

6. Feeling guilty about planning your next vacation? Here's why travel makes you better at your job.

7. I'll never tire of navy and white. Jess does this look so well!

8. I'll take one in every color. Those buttons!

9. In case you missed it: a new career spotlight.

10. Loving this photography blog.

11. Mindy Kaling speaks at Harvard. Don't miss.

12. Not your average lemonade. Yum.

13. This top is an instant wardrobe classic.

14. Why doesn't my hair look like this?

15. Yes, that is a bow on these placemats. Must have.

1. A ladylike midi skirt for $79.

2. An incredible work of art.

3. Build your own gin-and-tonic bar. Yes please!

4. Can't even handle this dress.

5. Cleaning hacks for your kitchen.

6. Feeling guilty about planning your next vacation? Here's why travel makes you better at your job.

7. I'll never tire of navy and white. Jess does this look so well!

8. I'll take one in every color. Those buttons!

9. In case you missed it: a new career spotlight.

10. Loving this photography blog.

11. Mindy Kaling speaks at Harvard. Don't miss.

12. Not your average lemonade. Yum.

13. This top is an instant wardrobe classic.

14. Why doesn't my hair look like this?

15. Yes, that is a bow on these placemats. Must have.

WEEKEND WARDROBE

top  //  earrings  //  sunglasses  //  skirt  //  bow bracelet  //  bow flats  //  bag

Do you ever feel like the best part of travel is coming home? This will be my first weekend in New York since early May and I'm pretty happy about it. I have a little picnic planned for tonight (I'll try to Instagram!) and brunch with blogger friends on Sunday but other than that the weekend is a blank canvas. Sometimes those are the best kinds, don't you think? I hope you all have a good one! xx 

top  //  earrings  //  sunglasses  //  skirt  //  bow bracelet  //  bow flats  //  bag

Do you ever feel like the best part of travel is coming home? This will be my first weekend in New York since early May and I'm pretty happy about it. I have a little picnic planned for tonight (I'll try to Instagram!) and brunch with blogger friends on Sunday but other than that the weekend is a blank canvas. Sometimes those are the best kinds, don't you think? I hope you all have a good one! xx 

THE ULTIMATE SUMMER WARDROBE

Does anyone create a seasonal wishlist? I'm thinking it's not a bad idea. I've referred back to my ultimate spring wardrobe post a million times as I contemplated various purchases over the past few months. So here's what I'm coveting for the summer months: blue and white (if it ain't broke...), the most insanely flattering lace peplum top, the perfect espadrilles, and more...

one  //  two  //  three  //  four  //  five  //  six  //  seven  //  eight

nine  //  ten  //  eleven  //  twelve  //  thirteen  //  fourteen  //  fifteen

I can't even handle the back of this dress or the cut of this swimsuit. I really concentrated on pieces I'd rewear summer after summer — you can't go wrong with a blue oxford shirt or navy bow espadrilles! What would your ultimate summer wardrobe look like? Will you be scooping up any of these pieces over the next few months?

Does anyone create a seasonal wishlist? I'm thinking it's not a bad idea. I've referred back to my ultimate spring wardrobe post a million times as I contemplated various purchases over the past few months. So here's what I'm coveting for the summer months: blue and white (if it ain't broke...), the most insanely flattering lace peplum top, the perfect espadrilles, and more...

one  //  two  //  three  //  four  //  five  //  six  //  seven  //  eight

nine  //  ten  //  eleven  //  twelve  //  thirteen  //  fourteen  //  fifteen

I can't even handle the back of this dress or the cut of this swimsuit. I really concentrated on pieces I'd rewear summer after summer — you can't go wrong with a blue oxford shirt or navy bow espadrilles! What would your ultimate summer wardrobe look like? Will you be scooping up any of these pieces over the next few months?