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Falling Forward






I'm feeling very ready for fall fashion: boyfriend cardigans, equestrian-inspired boots, cozy scarves, trendy clogs, and the perfectly proportioned cape coat. What are you looking forward to for fall?

Hamilton Design Associates


I'm so inspired by Hamilton Design Associates' imaginative use of pattern and texture. Their rich portfolio — divided into sections for city and beyond the city — is a must-see.

Currently Coveting {Rebecca Minkoff}

Pierre Trench- Khaki

Sophie Dress- Cream

Ilaria Dress- Black
Nadia Assymetrical Sweater- Camel
Starry Perforated Mac Clutch

Belle
Leopard Haircalf Fling Minaudiere
There is not one piece from Rebecca Minkoff's fall collection that I would not love to have magically appear in my closet. From the flawlessly feminine clothing to the traditional-shape-meets-bold-color-and-cool-hardware handbag offerings, I'm positively head over heels.

Happy {Work Hard, Play Hard} Weekend

Happy Friday everyone! This weekend could not come soon enough. What are your plans? 
I'm planning on tackling a few projects on my to do list...
...and spending lots of time outside enjoying this delightful pre-fall weather! I hope your weekend is wonderful and I'll see you all on Monday!

It's Like Riding A Bike

Who's going to find me a fabulous vintage bicycle with a worn leather seat and a pretty wicker basket? A girl can dream!



I'm participating in Averill's fabulous "Shop Like A Design Blogger" series over at Odi et Amo today and hope to see you there!

Bag Lady

Currently coveting more than a few clutches and handbags from Shopbop. What is it about this time of year that sends me into a shopping frenzy? 




What are your fall fashion must-haves?


P.S. Thank you for all the sweet comments about the updated look but I must tell you that this new layout has nothing to do with the redesign I'm working on with Jessica from The Love List! Just me playing around and trying to make the blog a little more sophisticated for you all ;) Worry not — a new header and a few other surprises are on their way!

Black & White

There is no color combination so foolproof as classic black and white. I really don't know whether it can be done wrong — and that's saying something! 




Black doors are the perfect complement to a white palette with gold accents.

I wouldn't mind returning home to this apartment foyer with its painted brick and whitewashed floors. 

Don't you love the edge that black trim lends to this otherwise monochromatic kitchen?

A little gloss never hurts either! I love the overgrown bouquet and stacks of books in this simple but chic space.

{via Decorology}
Renters and commitment-phobes need not worry — just a dash of black paint transforms a clean-lined credenza into a graphic masterpiece.

Even a pair of throw pillows will do the trick! I love these, these, and these from new sponsor Fabricadabra.

How do you use black and white in your home? It might just be my new go-to!

Elegant Touch

I'm so excited to introduce you all to my first sponsors! First up is Elegant Touch, a gorgeous Etsy shop full of designer pillows! 
NEW DECORATIVE DESIGNER PILLOW COVER - 20x20 - SUZANI PINWHEEL PRINT ON A CREME BACKGROUND
{$55}
Olga's flawless fabric choices cover all the latest design trends. I would love this suzani pinwheel print propped up against this sage green armchair, wouldn't you?
Decoratve Designer Lumbar Pillow Cover 12X16 - Suzani Pattern - Brick Red, Taupe and Brown  on a Textured Linen Background
{via Houzz}
I love the design of this red and purple suzani — and you already know i love the color combo! How fun would it be on a red chippendale chair?
NEW Decorative Designer Lumbar  Pillow Cover 14X18 - DURALEE IKAT Print in Red, Brown and Taupe on a Creme Background
Ikat is everywhere right now and I don't see why it shouldn't be incorporated into this lovely little seating area as well. A white armchair trimmed with nailheads and topped with red ikat? To die for!
PAIR OF DECORATIVE DESIGNER 16X16 Pillow Covers - Imperial Trellis Pattern- Black and Off White
Still itching for your imperial trellis fix? This pair would be perfect for an end-of-summer soirée.

Sponsorship on Design Darling includes a 150x150 ad in the sidebar and one sponsored post to introduce your work to my readers. Interested in learning more? Email me at mhoran@optonline.net!

Friday Finds

Cassandra featured the world's most glamorous game of ping pong...
Ally shared a new host of window seat eye candy...
Leah's endearing thank you notes made me giggle...

Jo and Kim introduced me to a new favorite interior photographer...

And Mrs. Lilien made the party barge chic in a particularly fabulous post.

My weekend will consist of Bid Night on Friday and Welcome Night on Saturday — any other Alpha Chi Omegas out there?! I hope your weekend is full of friends and fun and I'll see you all on Monday!

Leopard Love

Looking forward to incorporating a little leopard love into my fall wardrobe. What trends are you loving lately?