And the winner is...

The winner of the Graphic Image giveaway is entry #61, Kelly Carlin! Congratulations to Kelly — please email me so I can put you in touch with the lovely folks at Graphic Image to redeem your gorgeous new 2012 planner! Thank you to everyone who entered; I have a couple more exciting giveaways lined up over the next month that I can't wait to share with you!

The winner of the Graphic Image giveaway is entry #61, Kelly Carlin! Congratulations to Kelly — please email me so I can put you in touch with the lovely folks at Graphic Image to redeem your gorgeous new 2012 planner! Thank you to everyone who entered; I have a couple more exciting giveaways lined up over the next month that I can't wait to share with you!

Introducing Society Social!

Remember when I predicted big things in store for my friend Roxy of My Cup of Te? Since then she has designed, produced, and launched a stunning furniture collection called Society Social. I could not be more proud of her — or more eager to get my hands on the following!

The Hostess bar cart, $549 / The Madison Mixer bar cart, $439

The Double bar cart, $295 / The Stanton bar cart, $439

The Fifi chair, $189 / The Piper chair, $189

The playful range of colors speaks to Roxy's fun-loving personality and "Live Sparkly" motto. Curious to learn more about the brand? Last week she released her Manifesto Magalog — with a couple features produced by yours truly! Congratulations, Roxy!

P.S. I'm sharing one of my favorite tablescapes at the adorable Simply Southern today!

Remember when I predicted big things in store for my friend Roxy of My Cup of Te? Since then she has designed, produced, and launched a stunning furniture collection called Society Social. I could not be more proud of her — or more eager to get my hands on the following!

The Hostess bar cart, $549 / The Madison Mixer bar cart, $439

The Double bar cart, $295 / The Stanton bar cart, $439

The Fifi chair, $189 / The Piper chair, $189

The playful range of colors speaks to Roxy's fun-loving personality and "Live Sparkly" motto. Curious to learn more about the brand? Last week she released her Manifesto Magalog — with a couple features produced by yours truly! Congratulations, Roxy!

P.S. I'm sharing one of my favorite tablescapes at the adorable Simply Southern today!

Design Darling on Tumblr!

I'm excited to invite you to the virtual inspiration board I've been working on! It's an easy way for me to save images I stumble upon without stopping to craft them into a real blog post. More importantly, however, I'd like it to become an informal space where I can interact with all of you! I've enabled the "ask" feature so you can fire away with questions about fashion, interior design, or whatever else strikes your fancy. Ask away HERE!

{This gorgeousness and more on Design Darling's brand new Tumblr. Check it out HERE!}

I'm excited to invite you to the virtual inspiration board I've been working on! It's an easy way for me to save images I stumble upon without stopping to craft them into a real blog post. More importantly, however, I'd like it to become an informal space where I can interact with all of you! I've enabled the "ask" feature so you can fire away with questions about fashion, interior design, or whatever else strikes your fancy. Ask away HERE!

{This gorgeousness and more on Design Darling's brand new Tumblr. Check it out HERE!}

Apartment Essentials {The Sofa}

Given that lots of you are young professionals furnishing your first place, I thought I'd kick off an informal series called Apartment Essentials to showcase my favorite budget finds for key pieces. (This is of course pertinent to college students as well!) First up: the living room sofa.

{Rita Konig in Decorate}

In many first apartments, the living room sofa serves many purposes: the place you cozy up with popcorn and a movie, the spot you read blogs and skype home, the alternative to the dining room table (which is inevitably covered with magazines and mail), and — let's face it — the guest bedroom for visitors both expected and impromptu. Therefore it's important that the living room sofa be comfortable, durable, and stylish. Here are a few of my favorite affordable options on the market right now. 

Ikea, $579

CB2, $999

Urban Outfitters, $659

Z Gallerie, $999

Feel free to disagree with me here but I'm going to say that anything priced below $1,000 is a very reasonable price for a quality sofa. These are only a few hundred dollars more than your college futon but kill it in the style department. Most of these are available in multiple colors but I chose gray as a goes-with-everything neutral that's way more chic than beige.

- - -

What do you think of this series? Any particular pieces you're looking for?

Given that lots of you are young professionals furnishing your first place, I thought I'd kick off an informal series called Apartment Essentials to showcase my favorite budget finds for key pieces. (This is of course pertinent to college students as well!) First up: the living room sofa.

{Rita Konig in Decorate}

In many first apartments, the living room sofa serves many purposes: the place you cozy up with popcorn and a movie, the spot you read blogs and skype home, the alternative to the dining room table (which is inevitably covered with magazines and mail), and — let's face it — the guest bedroom for visitors both expected and impromptu. Therefore it's important that the living room sofa be comfortable, durable, and stylish. Here are a few of my favorite affordable options on the market right now. 

Ikea, $579

CB2, $999

Urban Outfitters, $659

Z Gallerie, $999

Feel free to disagree with me here but I'm going to say that anything priced below $1,000 is a very reasonable price for a quality sofa. These are only a few hundred dollars more than your college futon but kill it in the style department. Most of these are available in multiple colors but I chose gray as a goes-with-everything neutral that's way more chic than beige.

- - -

What do you think of this series? Any particular pieces you're looking for?

Graphic Image 2012 Planner Giveaway!

My friends at Graphic Image are graciously giving away one 2012 planner in the winner's chosen color and monogram! They kindly sent me a bright orange planner (that I wish I could start using immediately!) and it officially has my stamp of approval.

Look at all the pretty colors! The leather quality is to die for and there's plenty of space to write — a must for this compulsive list-maker!

To enter the giveaway, simply become a follower of Design Darling and leave a comment below. The winner will be announced on Friday morning. Good luck!

My friends at Graphic Image are graciously giving away one 2012 planner in the winner's chosen color and monogram! They kindly sent me a bright orange planner (that I wish I could start using immediately!) and it officially has my stamp of approval.

Look at all the pretty colors! The leather quality is to die for and there's plenty of space to write — a must for this compulsive list-maker!

To enter the giveaway, simply become a follower of Design Darling and leave a comment below. The winner will be announced on Friday morning. Good luck!

On The List

Three more tasks that made it onto the list of 101 things I'd like to accomplish in 1001 days...

5. Work for one of my dream companies.

12. Throw my first dinner party.

61. Try my hand at calligraphy.

What are some of the things you'd like to achieve in the next two or three years?

{image via Patterson Maker}

Three more tasks that made it onto the list of 101 things I'd like to accomplish in 1001 days...

5. Work for one of my dream companies.

12. Throw my first dinner party.

61. Try my hand at calligraphy.

What are some of the things you'd like to achieve in the next two or three years?

{image via Patterson Maker}

Working Girl

Thank you for the birthday wishes yesterday! Today I'm taking the train into New York where I'll hit the ground running with three interviews for fall internships. Of course the end goal is to secure a full-time position but I'm keeping my options open and exhausting my resources before I make any decisions. More experience and more exposure never hurt anyone!

I wish I could share where I'll be interviewing today (and later this week!) but I'm keeping my lips sealed so as not to jinx anything. I imagine the next few weeks will be filled with lots of research and plenty of caffeine. Wish me luck!

{image from Matchbook Magazine}

Thank you for the birthday wishes yesterday! Today I'm taking the train into New York where I'll hit the ground running with three interviews for fall internships. Of course the end goal is to secure a full-time position but I'm keeping my options open and exhausting my resources before I make any decisions. More experience and more exposure never hurt anyone!

I wish I could share where I'll be interviewing today (and later this week!) but I'm keeping my lips sealed so as not to jinx anything. I imagine the next few weeks will be filled with lots of research and plenty of caffeine. Wish me luck!

{image from Matchbook Magazine}

It's My Birthday!

8/9/89 — that's me! My red eye flight from San Francisco to New York arrived bright and early and I'm spending the day celebrating in my own special way: having my hair cut, eating dinner with my family and my boyfriend, and seeing my little brother's summer play. I couldn't think of a better birthday present than coming back home and catching up with those I've missed most!

{images via the illustrious portfolio of Mrs. Lilien}

8/9/89 — that's me! My red eye flight from San Francisco to New York arrived bright and early and I'm spending the day celebrating in my own special way: having my hair cut, eating dinner with my family and my boyfriend, and seeing my little brother's summer play. I couldn't think of a better birthday present than coming back home and catching up with those I've missed most!

{images via the illustrious portfolio of Mrs. Lilien}

Monday Moodboard

Just a handful of pretty things that are making sense to me as I pack my bags today in search of my next adventure.

{interior by David Netto, outfit from 9 to 5 chic, 

inspiration board by Lara Robby, all others via Patterson Maker}

Just a handful of pretty things that are making sense to me as I pack my bags today in search of my next adventure.

{interior by David Netto, outfit from 9 to 5 chic, 

inspiration board by Lara Robby, all others via Patterson Maker}

True Blue

Three pretty pictures in my very favorite color. Have a wonderful weekend!

{Atlantic-Pacific, via Patterson Maker, Elle Decor}

Three pretty pictures in my very favorite color. Have a wonderful weekend!

{Atlantic-Pacific, via Patterson Maker, Elle Decor}

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?

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!

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.

{$14}

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

{$52}

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

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.

{$14}

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

{$52}

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}

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.

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}

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!

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.

- - - 

So, darlings, do dish: what are some of your 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.

- - - 

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? 

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?