CAREER SPOTLIGHT: MIGNONNE GAVIGAN

I can sum up Mignonne Gavigan in one word: chic. Her apartment, her jewelry, her personal style... Everything about her just oozes chic. Mignonne worked for the likes of Rachel Roy and Loeffler Randall for nearly a decade before launching her own jewelry label just three months ago. I spent a morning in her gorgeous TriBeCa apartment soaking up her Southern charm and advice for young women who want to make it in fashion.

Name: Mignonne Gavigan

Age: 33

Title: Founder and owner, Mignonne Gavigan

Location: TriBeCa, New York

What was your first job ever? Have you always wanted to design jewelry?

I love designing, creating, and making things. I grew up in North Carolina teaching sailing but my first internship was at Marc Jacobs, where I got to work with couture dresses. I wasn't paid anything but I did it because I loved the art and the craftsmanship — I know what it takes to make something that crazy beautiful. That's where I got the idea for my collection and what has propelled me every day. Everything I make is on beaded crinkle chiffon; the idea is to bring a piece of couture to every day. 

When did you know it was time to start your business? 

I was ripping up a couture dress and picked up a piece of the dress to tie it around my neck. I walked down the street and had people asking where I got it! Then I started making them for friends and family. I knew I wanted to work my way up and learn as much as I could from each job opportunity. I was head of Rachel Roy's design team and then left for Loeffler Randall, where I really felt like I could bring a feminine element to their designs. Eventually I built up enough want and need for my necklaces and had saved up enough money to make the first round of samples, which is always the most expensive. 

Tell me about the process of designing a new piece. 

I do my research! I always check out what's happening on the runway but I take it with a grain of salt — a lot of fashion to me is how something feels. I pull tears from magazines, go to art shows, stumble upon colors and patterns on the street. Then I see what sticks out to me and pull it all together. Each piece has to be interesting; you have to design a product that you know is going to catch. You have to make wearable things and make a little something for everybody. It's a very organic process.

How did you figure out the production side of things?

Working for other people definitely helped me develop connections in production facilities. And my southern roots! I'm always kind to the people I'm working with. Right now we're making everything in India.

What does a typical day look like for you?

I try to do a couple personal things before the team shows up at noon. I have a business partner who's really bright and has a strong finance background. One of my best friends is our sales director; it makes such a difference to work with people you trust. We have seven people on the staff right now so we'll have a meeting every Monday and then everyone heads off to work on their individual tasks.

What are the best and worst parts of your job?

Being creative is the best and worst part. I get to do what I love but there's also a lot of pressure to make the right choices. You can't just make things that only you want to wear!

I know what you mean! I hate when I buy a ton of one product that I love and it just doesn't sell. What's one pinch me moment you've had so far?

Every week there's something cool and fun happening. We've had sales meetings with our ideal top three vendors. Net-A-Porter is putting us on their special finds. We just landed a PR company who's stoked to get the ball rolling. 

I can't believe you've only been at this for three months. 

The demand for production is the most exciting part. We did a trunk show last week and sold 42 necklaces. And a couple nights ago, I gave one off my neck to Katie Couric at a restaurant!

That's amazing. When will you know you've made it?

I don't think I'll ever know that. I am having so much fun but it takes a long time to build a brand and get your name out there. I hope it keeps growing and evolving — next year you make some more necklaces that do really well and the year after that you roll out shoes that really resonate. Being successful isn't selling 100,000 necklaces; it's continuing to do it year after year. 

That's such a motivating sentiment! I can't wait to see where it all takes you. Do you have any advice for the next generation of women entrepreneurs? 

It was really hard for me to break into fashion; I didn't have any connections so I was just scraping away one day at a time. Continue to follow your heart. Don't burn bridges. You can learn something from everyone. Once you stop learning, change jobs. It's scary, but make that leap. Believe in yourself!

Keep up with Mignonne Gavigan:

Website  //  Facebook  //  Instagram  //  Pinterest  //  Twitter

*Rebecca Dale Photography

I can sum up Mignonne Gavigan in one word: chic. Her apartment, her jewelry, her personal style... Everything about her just oozes chic. Mignonne worked for the likes of Rachel Roy and Loeffler Randall for nearly a decade before launching her own jewelry label just three months ago. I spent a morning in her gorgeous TriBeCa apartment soaking up her Southern charm and advice for young women who want to make it in fashion.

Name: Mignonne Gavigan

Age: 33

Title: Founder and owner, Mignonne Gavigan

Location: TriBeCa, New York

What was your first job ever? Have you always wanted to design jewelry?

I love designing, creating, and making things. I grew up in North Carolina teaching sailing but my first internship was at Marc Jacobs, where I got to work with couture dresses. I wasn't paid anything but I did it because I loved the art and the craftsmanship — I know what it takes to make something that crazy beautiful. That's where I got the idea for my collection and what has propelled me every day. Everything I make is on beaded crinkle chiffon; the idea is to bring a piece of couture to every day. 

When did you know it was time to start your business? 

I was ripping up a couture dress and picked up a piece of the dress to tie it around my neck. I walked down the street and had people asking where I got it! Then I started making them for friends and family. I knew I wanted to work my way up and learn as much as I could from each job opportunity. I was head of Rachel Roy's design team and then left for Loeffler Randall, where I really felt like I could bring a feminine element to their designs. Eventually I built up enough want and need for my necklaces and had saved up enough money to make the first round of samples, which is always the most expensive. 

Tell me about the process of designing a new piece. 

I do my research! I always check out what's happening on the runway but I take it with a grain of salt — a lot of fashion to me is how something feels. I pull tears from magazines, go to art shows, stumble upon colors and patterns on the street. Then I see what sticks out to me and pull it all together. Each piece has to be interesting; you have to design a product that you know is going to catch. You have to make wearable things and make a little something for everybody. It's a very organic process.

How did you figure out the production side of things?

Working for other people definitely helped me develop connections in production facilities. And my southern roots! I'm always kind to the people I'm working with. Right now we're making everything in India.

What does a typical day look like for you?

I try to do a couple personal things before the team shows up at noon. I have a business partner who's really bright and has a strong finance background. One of my best friends is our sales director; it makes such a difference to work with people you trust. We have seven people on the staff right now so we'll have a meeting every Monday and then everyone heads off to work on their individual tasks.

What are the best and worst parts of your job?

Being creative is the best and worst part. I get to do what I love but there's also a lot of pressure to make the right choices. You can't just make things that only you want to wear!

I know what you mean! I hate when I buy a ton of one product that I love and it just doesn't sell. What's one pinch me moment you've had so far?

Every week there's something cool and fun happening. We've had sales meetings with our ideal top three vendors. Net-A-Porter is putting us on their special finds. We just landed a PR company who's stoked to get the ball rolling. 

I can't believe you've only been at this for three months. 

The demand for production is the most exciting part. We did a trunk show last week and sold 42 necklaces. And a couple nights ago, I gave one off my neck to Katie Couric at a restaurant!

That's amazing. When will you know you've made it?

I don't think I'll ever know that. I am having so much fun but it takes a long time to build a brand and get your name out there. I hope it keeps growing and evolving — next year you make some more necklaces that do really well and the year after that you roll out shoes that really resonate. Being successful isn't selling 100,000 necklaces; it's continuing to do it year after year. 

That's such a motivating sentiment! I can't wait to see where it all takes you. Do you have any advice for the next generation of women entrepreneurs? 

It was really hard for me to break into fashion; I didn't have any connections so I was just scraping away one day at a time. Continue to follow your heart. Don't burn bridges. You can learn something from everyone. Once you stop learning, change jobs. It's scary, but make that leap. Believe in yourself!

Keep up with Mignonne Gavigan:

Website  //  Facebook  //  Instagram  //  Pinterest  //  Twitter

*Rebecca Dale Photography

10 BOOKS TO READ THIS SUMMER

Need an easy beach read or a gripping novel to get you through your morning commute? I have a couple of reading goals on my 101 in 1001 list and decided to put together a summer reading list for myself and anyone else who's looking for a recommendation. And because I thought it would be fun to open it up to a few perspectives, I asked Design Darling's lovely summer interns, Mary Claire and Taryn, if they'd share a few of their own summer reads. I'm not always good at setting aside time to read so I'm hoping that having a list of ideas will keep it top of mind for me! From beach reads and business advice to classic works and science fiction, here's what we're reading and planning to read this summer:

1. Franny and Zooey by J.D. Salinger — Mary Claire's recommendation and one of my all-time favorite books. If you loved The Catcher in the Rye (or last summer's movie Salinger, which is now on Netflix!), you'll tear through these novellas. Recommended for: bedtime reading.

2. The Hundred-Year-Old Man Who Climbed Out Of The Window And Disappeared by Jonas Jonasson — I'm excited to read this recommendation from Taryn about a man who escapes his nursing home and gets caught up in a police chase, all the while sharing stories of how he altered the course of history throughout his lifetime. The best-selling novel was turned into an independent film released in Europe but you know what they say: the book is almost always better than the movie. Recommended for: a good laugh on your daily commute.

3. The Vacationers by Emma Straub — Currently no. 23 on the New York Times best seller list, The Vacationers is the story of a slightly dysfunctional New York family on a two-week vacation in Spain. It's equal parts dramatic, relatable, and romantic — also known as the perfect beach read. Recommended for: er, well, your next vacation.

4. Z: A Novel of Zelda Fitzgerald by Therese Anne Fowler — Having read The Great Gatsby, This Side of Paradise, and Tender is the Night within the past year, I cannot wait to read this story about F. Scott Fitzgerald's notorious wife Zelda. Written as though from her perspective, it's supposed to reveal some of Zelda — and her famous husband's — inner demons, set to the backdrop of the roaring 20s. Recommended for: your next book club pick.

5. #GIRLBOSS by Sophia Amoruso — I'm a sucker for stories about start-ups and women entrepreneurs so I picked this up at the Strand before heading to Nantucket for the weekend. The founder of Nasty Gal explains how she went from selling clothes on eBay to doing $100 million in online retail sales. She isn't afraid to tell it like it is but her book is definitely a kick in the butt if you're interested in running your own business. Recommended for: fans of By Invitation Only, I Shouldn't Be Telling You This, or Lessons of a Lipstick Queen.

6. The Fault in Our Stars by John Green — Read it before you see the movie! An incredible novel about a young cancer patient and the boy she falls in love with. The book and the movie will remind you what's really important in life (and probably to call your family and tell them you love them). Recommended if: you need a good cry.

7. Why We Buy by Paco Underhill — Taryn read this for one of her fashion merchandising classes at FIT and loved learning about the "science of shopping." As a blogger and online retailer, I have a feeling I'd love this research-based read on consumer behavior. Recommended for: fans of Malcolm Gladwell and Michael Lewis (that's me!).

8. Valley of the Dolls by Jacqueline Susann — A bestseller in the 1960s and, according to Taryn, "Gossip Girl for adults." ...And just like that, I'm sold. Recommended for: a guilty pleasure.

9. Sh*t My Dad Says by Justin Halpern — A series of short memoirs recommended by Mary Claire about a 28-year-old guy who moves back in with his 73-year-old father. Funny, disarming, and occasionally poignant, it's a quick read you could finish in one sitting. Recommended if: you follow the Twitter account or you need a good gift for Dad.

10. Divergent by Veronica Roth — Taryn read all three books in this series in less than two weeks last summer and insisted that I give them a try before renting the movie, which came out in March. Written on the author's winter break from Northwestern University, the science fiction novel tells the story of Tris Prior and her life in Chicago after the apocalypse. Recommended for: fans of The Hunger Games.

- - - 

What's on your list to read this summer? Have you read and loved (or disliked!) any of these? Let's hear it!

P.S. Pin the image above for easy reference next time you're in a bookstore or library!

Need an easy beach read or a gripping novel to get you through your morning commute? I have a couple of reading goals on my 101 in 1001 list and decided to put together a summer reading list for myself and anyone else who's looking for a recommendation. And because I thought it would be fun to open it up to a few perspectives, I asked Design Darling's lovely summer interns, Mary Claire and Taryn, if they'd share a few of their own summer reads. I'm not always good at setting aside time to read so I'm hoping that having a list of ideas will keep it top of mind for me! From beach reads and business advice to classic works and science fiction, here's what we're reading and planning to read this summer:

1. Franny and Zooey by J.D. Salinger — Mary Claire's recommendation and one of my all-time favorite books. If you loved The Catcher in the Rye (or last summer's movie Salinger, which is now on Netflix!), you'll tear through these novellas. Recommended for: bedtime reading.

2. The Hundred-Year-Old Man Who Climbed Out Of The Window And Disappeared by Jonas Jonasson — I'm excited to read this recommendation from Taryn about a man who escapes his nursing home and gets caught up in a police chase, all the while sharing stories of how he altered the course of history throughout his lifetime. The best-selling novel was turned into an independent film released in Europe but you know what they say: the book is almost always better than the movie. Recommended for: a good laugh on your daily commute.

3. The Vacationers by Emma Straub — Currently no. 23 on the New York Times best seller list, The Vacationers is the story of a slightly dysfunctional New York family on a two-week vacation in Spain. It's equal parts dramatic, relatable, and romantic — also known as the perfect beach read. Recommended for: er, well, your next vacation.

4. Z: A Novel of Zelda Fitzgerald by Therese Anne Fowler — Having read The Great Gatsby, This Side of Paradise, and Tender is the Night within the past year, I cannot wait to read this story about F. Scott Fitzgerald's notorious wife Zelda. Written as though from her perspective, it's supposed to reveal some of Zelda — and her famous husband's — inner demons, set to the backdrop of the roaring 20s. Recommended for: your next book club pick.

5. #GIRLBOSS by Sophia Amoruso — I'm a sucker for stories about start-ups and women entrepreneurs so I picked this up at the Strand before heading to Nantucket for the weekend. The founder of Nasty Gal explains how she went from selling clothes on eBay to doing $100 million in online retail sales. She isn't afraid to tell it like it is but her book is definitely a kick in the butt if you're interested in running your own business. Recommended for: fans of By Invitation Only, I Shouldn't Be Telling You This, or Lessons of a Lipstick Queen.

6. The Fault in Our Stars by John Green — Read it before you see the movie! An incredible novel about a young cancer patient and the boy she falls in love with. The book and the movie will remind you what's really important in life (and probably to call your family and tell them you love them). Recommended if: you need a good cry.

7. Why We Buy by Paco Underhill — Taryn read this for one of her fashion merchandising classes at FIT and loved learning about the "science of shopping." As a blogger and online retailer, I have a feeling I'd love this research-based read on consumer behavior. Recommended for: fans of Malcolm Gladwell and Michael Lewis (that's me!).

8. Valley of the Dolls by Jacqueline Susann — A bestseller in the 1960s and, according to Taryn, "Gossip Girl for adults." ...And just like that, I'm sold. Recommended for: a guilty pleasure.

9. Sh*t My Dad Says by Justin Halpern — A series of short memoirs recommended by Mary Claire about a 28-year-old guy who moves back in with his 73-year-old father. Funny, disarming, and occasionally poignant, it's a quick read you could finish in one sitting. Recommended if: you follow the Twitter account or you need a good gift for Dad.

10. Divergent by Veronica Roth — Taryn read all three books in this series in less than two weeks last summer and insisted that I give them a try before renting the movie, which came out in March. Written on the author's winter break from Northwestern University, the science fiction novel tells the story of Tris Prior and her life in Chicago after the apocalypse. Recommended for: fans of The Hunger Games.

- - - 

What's on your list to read this summer? Have you read and loved (or disliked!) any of these? Let's hear it!

P.S. Pin the image above for easy reference next time you're in a bookstore or library!

OUTFIT {PINK SCALLOPED SHORTS}

Looking for an affordable pair of pink scalloped shorts? I've been searching ever since stumbling upon this pin sometime last year. And I can finally say I've found them: the perfect pair of pink scalloped shorts for just $38. I can't resist preppy brights in the summer (more evidence here, here, and here) so this look is something of a seasonal uniform for me. Easy breezy top, bright shorts, comfy flats for walking. And an ice cold lemonade because, hi, have you stepped outside lately?

 

But back to the shorts. They're the perfect shade of hot pink — not bubblegum, not quite neon — and I can't get enough of the scalloped edge. Yes, linen is prone to wrinkling, but it's also one of the only fabrics I can fathom wearing when the temperature hits 90 in New York. The fact that they match perfectly with my colorblocked espadrilles is just the icing on the cake.

One of the biggest takeaways for me from your feedback a couple weeks ago was that a lot of you want to see more affordable finds mixed in with the more wishlist-worthy items I feature on Design Darling. And I want you to know: I read you loud and clear. Thankfully I'm past my days of scooping up $6 "going out tops" at Forever 21 (why? WHY?), but there are plenty of ways to look preppy, polished, and put together without breaking the bank. Am I still going to splurge on classic pieces I can't live without? 100%. But when I find an awesome $25 t-shirt or $54 dress, you're going to know about it. Deal? Deal.

J.Crew tuxedo top ($88)  //  ASOS pink scalloped shorts ($38)

Henri Bendel bag c/o ($478)  //  C. Wonder sunglasses (old, similar)

BaubleBar rope bracelet c/o ($22)  //  Jeweliq double pearl ring ($20)

Tory Burch espadrilles ($125 $88) — cute gingham version here!

More scalloped finds:

*Rebecca Dale Photography

Looking for an affordable pair of pink scalloped shorts? I've been searching ever since stumbling upon this pin sometime last year. And I can finally say I've found them: the perfect pair of pink scalloped shorts for just $38. I can't resist preppy brights in the summer (more evidence here, here, and here) so this look is something of a seasonal uniform for me. Easy breezy top, bright shorts, comfy flats for walking. And an ice cold lemonade because, hi, have you stepped outside lately?

 

But back to the shorts. They're the perfect shade of hot pink — not bubblegum, not quite neon — and I can't get enough of the scalloped edge. Yes, linen is prone to wrinkling, but it's also one of the only fabrics I can fathom wearing when the temperature hits 90 in New York. The fact that they match perfectly with my colorblocked espadrilles is just the icing on the cake.

One of the biggest takeaways for me from your feedback a couple weeks ago was that a lot of you want to see more affordable finds mixed in with the more wishlist-worthy items I feature on Design Darling. And I want you to know: I read you loud and clear. Thankfully I'm past my days of scooping up $6 "going out tops" at Forever 21 (why? WHY?), but there are plenty of ways to look preppy, polished, and put together without breaking the bank. Am I still going to splurge on classic pieces I can't live without? 100%. But when I find an awesome $25 t-shirt or $54 dress, you're going to know about it. Deal? Deal.

J.Crew tuxedo top ($88)  //  ASOS pink scalloped shorts ($38)

Henri Bendel bag c/o ($478)  //  C. Wonder sunglasses (old, similar)

BaubleBar rope bracelet c/o ($22)  //  Jeweliq double pearl ring ($20)

Tory Burch espadrilles ($125 $88) — cute gingham version here!

More scalloped finds:

*Rebecca Dale Photography

WEEKEND READING

{The rooftop garden at the Met with Amy and Brooke last weekend. I wore this ASOS dress ($54)!}

1. An easy summer recipe.

2. A must for summer entertaining.

3. Chic navy heels for $70.

4. Five iconic American designers you need to know.

5. Lindsay's engagement photos are stunning.

6. My favorite color combination.

7. Olivia Palermo's wedding pictures. Flawless, not that you'd expect anything else.

8. Prints by my all-time favorite photographer.

9. Seven things to do in July.

10. Will be picking up this skirt for fall (use code JULY for 30% off).

{The rooftop garden at the Met with Amy and Brooke last weekend. I wore this ASOS dress ($54)!}

1. An easy summer recipe.

2. A must for summer entertaining.

3. Chic navy heels for $70.

4. Five iconic American designers you need to know.

5. Lindsay's engagement photos are stunning.

6. My favorite color combination.

7. Olivia Palermo's wedding pictures. Flawless, not that you'd expect anything else.

8. Prints by my all-time favorite photographer.

9. Seven things to do in July.

10. Will be picking up this skirt for fall (use code JULY for 30% off).

BROOKLYN BOTANIC GARDEN

I crossed another goal off my 101 in 1001 list last weekend: spending the afternoon at a botanical garden! Will and I took the subway out to the Brooklyn Botanic Garden and couldn't believe how gorgeous it was. It was definitely a little hot so I'd recommend actually looking at the forecast before you put on jeans putting it on your to do list for next spring or early summer. That said, there were still plenty of blooms (the climbing roses were my favorite!) and it was so nice to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

This would be such a pretty color palette to recreate with a bunch of bodega blooms: white daisies, hot pink roses, and a touch of lavender.

Smiling and sweating profusely. #chic

Saving this to my dream home file... Here's hoping I'll inherit my parents' love of gardening as I get older. 

After a couple hours of strolling the different parts of the garden, we camped out under one of the cherry blossom trees in the middle of the park. It was such a peaceful little moment with birds chirping and kids playing tag that you almost wouldn't know we were just minutes outside Manhattan. (So that's why people move to Brooklyn...) This must have been even prettier during cherry blossom season in April. I'm making a mental note to head back next spring!

P.S. Happy Fourth, everyone! 

I crossed another goal off my 101 in 1001 list last weekend: spending the afternoon at a botanical garden! Will and I took the subway out to the Brooklyn Botanic Garden and couldn't believe how gorgeous it was. It was definitely a little hot so I'd recommend actually looking at the forecast before you put on jeans putting it on your to do list for next spring or early summer. That said, there were still plenty of blooms (the climbing roses were my favorite!) and it was so nice to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

This would be such a pretty color palette to recreate with a bunch of bodega blooms: white daisies, hot pink roses, and a touch of lavender.

Smiling and sweating profusely. #chic

Saving this to my dream home file... Here's hoping I'll inherit my parents' love of gardening as I get older. 

After a couple hours of strolling the different parts of the garden, we camped out under one of the cherry blossom trees in the middle of the park. It was such a peaceful little moment with birds chirping and kids playing tag that you almost wouldn't know we were just minutes outside Manhattan. (So that's why people move to Brooklyn...) This must have been even prettier during cherry blossom season in April. I'm making a mental note to head back next spring!

P.S. Happy Fourth, everyone! 

OUTFIT {STRIPES ON STRIPES}

If you peep my closet at a glance, you'll see that the vast majority of it is navy, white, or navy and white stripes. (If it ain't broke, don't fix it.) I'm not usually one to mix prints but I thought it would be fun to try sporting two striped pieces at once. I think it's easiest to pull off when the stripes are the same color but of different widths. I'll let you be the judge...

Since stripes on stripes is a little outside my comfort zone, I paired the outfit with classic leather accessories. I've been living in these shoes (seen previously here and here) and I'm head over heels for this leather tote that the team at Henri Bendel sent to me. I know it's a timeless piece I'll have for years to come (and it just barely fits my laptop — always a plus!). I wore this outfit to shoot the next career feature (coming next week!) so walkable wedges and a big bag were a must.

I'm also wearing a couple pieces from BaubleBar, including a rope bracelet from my friend Grace's collection. If you're looking to add a couple nautical accessories to your summer look, do take a peek! 

ASOS striped shirt ($25)  //  Annie Griffin striped skirt c/o ($178 $142 with code NAVY20)

C. Wonder sunglasses (old, similar)  //  Jeweliq double pearl ring ($20)

BaubleBar initial bangles c/o ($38)  //  BaubleBar rope bracelet c/o ($22)

Henri Bendel bag c/o ($478)  //  J.Crew wedges ($168 $84 with code JULY)

*Rebecca Dale Photography

If you peep my closet at a glance, you'll see that the vast majority of it is navy, white, or navy and white stripes. (If it ain't broke, don't fix it.) I'm not usually one to mix prints but I thought it would be fun to try sporting two striped pieces at once. I think it's easiest to pull off when the stripes are the same color but of different widths. I'll let you be the judge...

Since stripes on stripes is a little outside my comfort zone, I paired the outfit with classic leather accessories. I've been living in these shoes (seen previously here and here) and I'm head over heels for this leather tote that the team at Henri Bendel sent to me. I know it's a timeless piece I'll have for years to come (and it just barely fits my laptop — always a plus!). I wore this outfit to shoot the next career feature (coming next week!) so walkable wedges and a big bag were a must.

I'm also wearing a couple pieces from BaubleBar, including a rope bracelet from my friend Grace's collection. If you're looking to add a couple nautical accessories to your summer look, do take a peek! 

ASOS striped shirt ($25)  //  Annie Griffin striped skirt c/o ($178 $142 with code NAVY20)

C. Wonder sunglasses (old, similar)  //  Jeweliq double pearl ring ($20)

BaubleBar initial bangles c/o ($38)  //  BaubleBar rope bracelet c/o ($22)

Henri Bendel bag c/o ($478)  //  J.Crew wedges ($168 $84 with code JULY)

*Rebecca Dale Photography

NEW YORK CITY GUIDE: GIGINO

What: Late lunch at Gigino

Wearing: An Old Navy dress (on sale for $12... I mean) and a yellow crossbody bag c/o Henri Bendel (I'm in love!)

Where: 20 Battery Place, Wagner Park

Why: Classic Italian fare, but the view is the real draw! Open air seating with views of the Statue of Liberty (and a nearby ferry in case you have time to visit!). We'll be back for sure.

More NYC guide posts here.

What: Late lunch at Gigino

Wearing: An Old Navy dress (on sale for $12... I mean) and a yellow crossbody bag c/o Henri Bendel (I'm in love!)

Where: 20 Battery Place, Wagner Park

Why: Classic Italian fare, but the view is the real draw! Open air seating with views of the Statue of Liberty (and a nearby ferry in case you have time to visit!). We'll be back for sure.

More NYC guide posts here.

OUTFIT INSPIRATION: BRIGHT WHITE

Need a little outfit inspiration to get yourself out of a wardrobe rut? Whenever I'm feeling uninspired by my closet, I do two things: 1) I clean out my closet and 2) I turn to Pinterest. Clearing out the clutter to create more space for the pieces I actually wear (and the items I want to add to my closet) makes it so much easier to mix and match. And I can usually find some pretty obvious trends on my style board. This time around, I'm clearly having a moment with bright whites and summery neutrals. Here are a few of the looks inspiring my closet clean-out...

*images 1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 / 7

There's a way to do preppy summer neutrals without looking like you wore your tennis whites out to happy hour. Here are a few of the essentials I'm moving to the front of my closet or putting on my list to purchase by summer's end (with a few options to cover every price point!).

Lace top

Tory Burch, $250  //  Joie, $178  //  Dolce Vita, $99  //  J.Crew, $49  //  J.Crew Factory, $39  //  Old Navy, $19

Modern pearls

Chloé, $505  //  Tory Burch, $192  //  Lele Sadoughi, $154  //  Kate Spade, $48  //  BaubleBar, $38  //  Jeweliq, $20

Eyelet dress

Tibi, $325  //  Madewell, $168  //  Nordstrom, $84  //  Topshop, $70  //  Gap, $35  //  Old Navy, $18

Fisherman sweater (tip: buy from the boys' section for a more fitted look!)

Ralph Lauren, $250  // LL Bean, $99  //  Topshop, $56  //  Gap, $40  //  ASOS, $16  //  H&M, $7

Breezy (maxi or midi) skirt

Rachel Pally, $198  //  Wildfox, $108  //  Topshop, $90  //  d.ra, $79  //  Chelsea28, $78  //  ASOS, $38

The perfect white button-down

Equipment, $208  //  Ralph Lauren, $90  //  J.Crew, $72  //  Gap, $50  //  Old Navy, $25

Here's hoping head-to-toe white will be just as chic with a few iced coffee spills. Murphy's law ;) In spite of its impracticality, all white is all right by me. Would you give it a go this summer?

Need a little outfit inspiration to get yourself out of a wardrobe rut? Whenever I'm feeling uninspired by my closet, I do two things: 1) I clean out my closet and 2) I turn to Pinterest. Clearing out the clutter to create more space for the pieces I actually wear (and the items I want to add to my closet) makes it so much easier to mix and match. And I can usually find some pretty obvious trends on my style board. This time around, I'm clearly having a moment with bright whites and summery neutrals. Here are a few of the looks inspiring my closet clean-out...

*images 1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 / 7

There's a way to do preppy summer neutrals without looking like you wore your tennis whites out to happy hour. Here are a few of the essentials I'm moving to the front of my closet or putting on my list to purchase by summer's end (with a few options to cover every price point!).

Lace top

Tory Burch, $250  //  Joie, $178  //  Dolce Vita, $99  //  J.Crew, $49  //  J.Crew Factory, $39  //  Old Navy, $19

Modern pearls

Chloé, $505  //  Tory Burch, $192  //  Lele Sadoughi, $154  //  Kate Spade, $48  //  BaubleBar, $38  //  Jeweliq, $20

Eyelet dress

Tibi, $325  //  Madewell, $168  //  Nordstrom, $84  //  Topshop, $70  //  Gap, $35  //  Old Navy, $18

Fisherman sweater (tip: buy from the boys' section for a more fitted look!)

Ralph Lauren, $250  // LL Bean, $99  //  Topshop, $56  //  Gap, $40  //  ASOS, $16  //  H&M, $7

Breezy (maxi or midi) skirt

Rachel Pally, $198  //  Wildfox, $108  //  Topshop, $90  //  d.ra, $79  //  Chelsea28, $78  //  ASOS, $38

The perfect white button-down

Equipment, $208  //  Ralph Lauren, $90  //  J.Crew, $72  //  Gap, $50  //  Old Navy, $25

Here's hoping head-to-toe white will be just as chic with a few iced coffee spills. Murphy's law ;) In spite of its impracticality, all white is all right by me. Would you give it a go this summer?

MY APARTMENT TO DO LIST

My default thought process goes something like this: when in doubt, make a list. (Shocking, right?) Getting my apartment from where it is now to being ready to be shared on the blog feels a little daunting right now so I thought I'd break it down and share what I'm working on. 

*image

1. Buy/plant a cactus and a lemon tree

For whatever reason, I have been obsessed with cacti lately. And having a lemon tree in my apartment is part of my 101 in 1001 list!

*image

2. Plant something for my window

My grandmother suggested a little herb garden. Any recommendations?

3. Chair and headboard from Katie Kime

I am so excited about these that I can hardly contain myself. It has been a dream of mine (no, seriously) to own one of Katie's designs and I became even more obsessed after touring her workspace on our trip to Austin. I'm so excited to invest in such high quality workmanship and I know these pieces will get a lot of love over the coming years. But it wouldn't be my apartment without a mix of high and low, which brings me to the next to do item...

4. Finishing touches from Target 

I'm excited to be working with Target for some of the remaining decorating. You've already seen my green X benches but I'll give you a sneak peek of the striped duvet that's on its way... LOVE.

5. Order frames and mattes for Design Darling art prints

We're really ramping up the art selection in the boutique to make it a one-stop-shop for pretty prints for every room in your home.

*image

5. Hang everything up!

Brace yourselves for a seriously epic gallery wall. I cannot wait!

What's on your to do list for your home? I'd love to compare notes!

My default thought process goes something like this: when in doubt, make a list. (Shocking, right?) Getting my apartment from where it is now to being ready to be shared on the blog feels a little daunting right now so I thought I'd break it down and share what I'm working on. 

*image

1. Buy/plant a cactus and a lemon tree

For whatever reason, I have been obsessed with cacti lately. And having a lemon tree in my apartment is part of my 101 in 1001 list!

*image

2. Plant something for my window

My grandmother suggested a little herb garden. Any recommendations?

3. Chair and headboard from Katie Kime

I am so excited about these that I can hardly contain myself. It has been a dream of mine (no, seriously) to own one of Katie's designs and I became even more obsessed after touring her workspace on our trip to Austin. I'm so excited to invest in such high quality workmanship and I know these pieces will get a lot of love over the coming years. But it wouldn't be my apartment without a mix of high and low, which brings me to the next to do item...

4. Finishing touches from Target 

I'm excited to be working with Target for some of the remaining decorating. You've already seen my green X benches but I'll give you a sneak peek of the striped duvet that's on its way... LOVE.

5. Order frames and mattes for Design Darling art prints

We're really ramping up the art selection in the boutique to make it a one-stop-shop for pretty prints for every room in your home.

*image

5. Hang everything up!

Brace yourselves for a seriously epic gallery wall. I cannot wait!

What's on your to do list for your home? I'd love to compare notes!

WEEKEND READING

*image

1. A flash mob for a great cause. I'll be at our friends' wedding that weekend but if you're in New York, you should sign up here! I'm sure it will be a remarkable experience.

2. From the archives: ten dream bedrooms.

3. I bought this olive tank to wear with white jeans. Can't wait!

4. My friend Grace released her first collection for BaubleBar! I love the rope bracelets.

5. Nautical new arrivals for summer.

6. Real estate envy.

7. Such a pretty party look on Julia.

8. Target does it again! Striped espadrilles for only $20. (They look a lot like this J.Crew pair!)

9. There are just four pieces left in the Kerry Steele pop-up shop! Don't miss out on a chance to own one of her originals.

10. This makes me want to plan a day trip to Montauk.

*image

1. A flash mob for a great cause. I'll be at our friends' wedding that weekend but if you're in New York, you should sign up here! I'm sure it will be a remarkable experience.

2. From the archives: ten dream bedrooms.

3. I bought this olive tank to wear with white jeans. Can't wait!

4. My friend Grace released her first collection for BaubleBar! I love the rope bracelets.

5. Nautical new arrivals for summer.

6. Real estate envy.

7. Such a pretty party look on Julia.

8. Target does it again! Striped espadrilles for only $20. (They look a lot like this J.Crew pair!)

9. There are just four pieces left in the Kerry Steele pop-up shop! Don't miss out on a chance to own one of her originals.

10. This makes me want to plan a day trip to Montauk.