On My Radar

A pretty pink blouse, an affordable camel cape, and the most perfect pair of striped espadrilles...

ONE Tucker blouse, $294 / TWO Target cape, $17

THREE Nars "Carthage" lipstick, $25 / FOUR Loren Hope/Society Social cocktail ring, $58

FIVE Dani Notes iPhone case, $55 / SIX Asos bow belt, $14

SEVEN Tory Burch envelope bag, $275 / EIGHT Tory Burch espadrilles, $195

What's on your radar lately?

A pretty pink blouse, an affordable camel cape, and the most perfect pair of striped espadrilles...

ONE Tucker blouse, $294 / TWO Target cape, $17

THREE Nars "Carthage" lipstick, $25 / FOUR Loren Hope/Society Social cocktail ring, $58

FIVE Dani Notes iPhone case, $55 / SIX Asos bow belt, $14

SEVEN Tory Burch envelope bag, $275 / EIGHT Tory Burch espadrilles, $195

What's on your radar lately?

Desk du jour

It doesn't get much preppier than good old pink and green. This cheery space is the work of interior designer Ana Cordeiro...

I decided to whip up a little inspiration board for those of you eager to recreate the look!

Trina Turk pillow ($99) / Luxury Monograms pillow ($75)

Gallery Wall watercolor ($10) / Society Social chair ($425 for two)

Ikea desk ($129) / Container Store document box ($13 each)

Ferm Living vase ($42) / Container Store lacquer boxes in pink and green ($18 each)

Furbish pouf ($285)

What do you think?!

It doesn't get much preppier than good old pink and green. This cheery space is the work of interior designer Ana Cordeiro...

I decided to whip up a little inspiration board for those of you eager to recreate the look!

Trina Turk pillow ($99) / Luxury Monograms pillow ($75)

Gallery Wall watercolor ($10) / Society Social chair ($425 for two)

Ikea desk ($129) / Container Store document box ($13 each)

Ferm Living vase ($42) / Container Store lacquer boxes in pink and green ($18 each)

Furbish pouf ($285)

What do you think?!

Quote of the day...

I needed this one today. 

More quotes on Design Darling's Facebook page.

I needed this one today. 

More quotes on Design Darling's Facebook page.

Tortoiseshell Glasses

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

ONE Karen Walker, $180

TWO House of Harlow, $125

THREE Urban Outfitters, $16

FOUR C. Wonder, $68

FIVE Elizabeth & James, $180

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

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

ONE Karen Walker, $180

TWO House of Harlow, $125

THREE Urban Outfitters, $16

FOUR C. Wonder, $68

FIVE Elizabeth & James, $180

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

Faux Calligraphy

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

{photos taken with Instagram}

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

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

{photos taken with Instagram}

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

{The Romper} Love it or leave it?

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

findersKEEPERS romper, $110

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

Dolce Vita romper, $220

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

- - -

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

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

findersKEEPERS romper, $110

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

Dolce Vita romper, $220

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

- - -

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

Instagram Updates

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Matchbook Magazine February 2012

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

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

Yours Truly on Stripes & Sequins!

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

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

Rebecca Minkoff Wheelie Travel Bag

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

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

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

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

Kate Spade Cuties

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

iPhone case, $40 / Sparkly clutch, $155

Sparkly studs, $98 / Bow clutch, $178

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

Spade bangle, $88

What brands would make your top ten list? 

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

iPhone case, $40 / Sparkly clutch, $155

Sparkly studs, $98 / Bow clutch, $178

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

Spade bangle, $88

What brands would make your top ten list? 

Handbag Dreamin'

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

Michael Kors / Chloé / Reed Krakoff

Iomoi / Milly / J.Crew

Marc by Marc Jacobs / Michael Michael Kors / Cambridge Satchel Co.

Are you the type to shell out for the bag of your dreams? What are you coveting these days?

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

Michael Kors / Chloé / Reed Krakoff

Iomoi / Milly / J.Crew

Marc by Marc Jacobs / Michael Michael Kors / Cambridge Satchel Co.

Are you the type to shell out for the bag of your dreams? What are you coveting these days?

A Pop of Pink

It's not always about stepping out in the best and brightest. Sometimes all it takes is a burst or two of your favorite hue...

Greylin blouse, $97 / House of Harlow sunglasses, $110

Topshop leopard scarf, $32 / NARS nail polish, $17

Lisa Stewart cuff, $57 / Trina Turk ring, $45

J.Crew heels, $228

What are some wardrobe dilemmas you've had lately? I'd love to address them in future posts!

It's not always about stepping out in the best and brightest. Sometimes all it takes is a burst or two of your favorite hue...

Greylin blouse, $97 / House of Harlow sunglasses, $110

Topshop leopard scarf, $32 / NARS nail polish, $17

Lisa Stewart cuff, $57 / Trina Turk ring, $45

J.Crew heels, $228

What are some wardrobe dilemmas you've had lately? I'd love to address them in future posts!

Desk du jour

Have you ever seen a prettier home office? This one belongs to Amanda Teal and it's safe to say I'm experiencing major office envy... 

I love her Chippendale chair, inspiration board, and organized desktop. On a related note, I went to the New York International Gift Fair with my mom yesterday and picked out amazing desk accessories that you'll see when my new boutique launches on March 1. Umm, can you believe that's only 30 days away?!

Have you ever seen a prettier home office? This one belongs to Amanda Teal and it's safe to say I'm experiencing major office envy... 

I love her Chippendale chair, inspiration board, and organized desktop. On a related note, I went to the New York International Gift Fair with my mom yesterday and picked out amazing desk accessories that you'll see when my new boutique launches on March 1. Umm, can you believe that's only 30 days away?!

Friday Find Under $50

...Because I love alliteration and the thrill of a good deal! This week's find is K. Slademade's new monogrammed leather key fob...

Totally adorable and only $18. What boyfriend wouldn't want one for Valentine's Day? ;)

...Because I love alliteration and the thrill of a good deal! This week's find is K. Slademade's new monogrammed leather key fob...

Totally adorable and only $18. What boyfriend wouldn't want one for Valentine's Day? ;)

Giveaway Winner!

The lucky winner of Laura Dro's gorgeous sunburst painting is...

...entry #6, Paislea Elyse of Allister Bee! Congratulations to her and thank you to all who entered. Laura will be giving away many more of her paintings on her blog so be sure to follow here!

The lucky winner of Laura Dro's gorgeous sunburst painting is...

...entry #6, Paislea Elyse of Allister Bee! Congratulations to her and thank you to all who entered. Laura will be giving away many more of her paintings on her blog so be sure to follow here!

Wardrobe Must-Have

The silk blouse has had a major resurgence in the past year or so and with good reason. I've been shopping around for a good deal and so far this looks to be the best of the best:

{Greylin, $97 — also available in black, blue, and white}

I love the collar, the single pocket, and of course that color! It's affordable without sacrificing on quality (I hate Forever 21's version of "silk" fabrics!) What do you think of silk blouses and this one in particular?

The silk blouse has had a major resurgence in the past year or so and with good reason. I've been shopping around for a good deal and so far this looks to be the best of the best:

{Greylin, $97 — also available in black, blue, and white}

I love the collar, the single pocket, and of course that color! It's affordable without sacrificing on quality (I hate Forever 21's version of "silk" fabrics!) What do you think of silk blouses and this one in particular?

Take Your Pick

Four favorite dresses from ASOS in a range of beautiful blues (and one white for good measure!)...

ONE, $45 / TWO, $63 / THREE, $69 / FOUR, $81

I think the first one is my favorite... That stormy blue is such a flattering shade and the price can't be beat! Which one would you add to your closet?

Four favorite dresses from ASOS in a range of beautiful blues (and one white for good measure!)...

ONE, $45 / TWO, $63 / THREE, $69 / FOUR, $81

I think the first one is my favorite... That stormy blue is such a flattering shade and the price can't be beat! Which one would you add to your closet?

Jamie Drake

Remember when I used to blog about color palettes? I think it's time to bring that back every now and then. Isn't the palette of this Jamie Drake living room sheer perfection? A subtle range of pinks, purples, and blues with just a hint of black... Yes please.

Remember when I used to blog about color palettes? I think it's time to bring that back every now and then. Isn't the palette of this Jamie Drake living room sheer perfection? A subtle range of pinks, purples, and blues with just a hint of black... Yes please.

A Lovely Little Vignette

Between the punchy palette and the pretty patterns, I'd say this vignette from Erin Gates and Jill Rosenwald is downright heavenly, wouldn't you?

Between the punchy palette and the pretty patterns, I'd say this vignette from Erin Gates and Jill Rosenwald is downright heavenly, wouldn't you?

Gold Bracelets

I was talking to my new blog friend Susan about the stacking trend and we both admitted that we always remove bracelets because they make so much noise. I'm truthfully more drawn to basic pieces that are easy to slip on and off...

ONE: Madewell, $24 / TWO: Lisa Stewart, $53

THREE: Kate Spade, $78 / FOUR: Kate Spade, $88

FIVE: Michael Kors, $95 / SIX: Privileged, $60

A couple cuffs or a solitary chain bracelet exudes effortless chic in a way no stack of bangles can! What's your preferred wrist wear?

I was talking to my new blog friend Susan about the stacking trend and we both admitted that we always remove bracelets because they make so much noise. I'm truthfully more drawn to basic pieces that are easy to slip on and off...

ONE: Madewell, $24 / TWO: Lisa Stewart, $53

THREE: Kate Spade, $78 / FOUR: Kate Spade, $88

FIVE: Michael Kors, $95 / SIX: Privileged, $60

A couple cuffs or a solitary chain bracelet exudes effortless chic in a way no stack of bangles can! What's your preferred wrist wear?

Introducing Devon Baer Designs!

I'm excited to be welcoming a new blog sponsor this morning! Say hello to Devon Baer Designs... 

{Lindsay Tunic}

{Cane Belt}

{Rachel Pant}

{Leopard Belt}

{Bridget Tunic}

I think I'm in love...! Which piece is your favorite?

I'm excited to be welcoming a new blog sponsor this morning! Say hello to Devon Baer Designs... 

{Lindsay Tunic}

{Cane Belt}

{Rachel Pant}

{Leopard Belt}

{Bridget Tunic}

I think I'm in love...! Which piece is your favorite?

Tory Burch Resin Square Necklace

It's the kind of piece that instantly transforms every outfit. The kind of piece you'd give to your granddaughter one day. The kind of piece you'd practically sell your soul (or at least fall back on rent) to own...

Sigh. See it HERE.

It's the kind of piece that instantly transforms every outfit. The kind of piece you'd give to your granddaughter one day. The kind of piece you'd practically sell your soul (or at least fall back on rent) to own...

Sigh. See it HERE.

Laura Dro Painting Giveaway!

Happy Monday everyone! Let's kick this week off with an amazing giveaway, shall we? I was positively thrilled to receive an email from the talented Laura Dro introducing me to her paintings and prints. Here are two of my favorite pieces...

Don't you love the fun colors and patterns? There's lots more where that came from in her amazing Etsy shop (including prints for just $49!). And in case you're feeling lucky, Laura has generously agreed to give away this original 8"x10" painting:

Isn't she a beauty? To enter, please follow Laura's blog and leave a comment below. I will announce the winner here on Friday. Good luck!

Happy Monday everyone! Let's kick this week off with an amazing giveaway, shall we? I was positively thrilled to receive an email from the talented Laura Dro introducing me to her paintings and prints. Here are two of my favorite pieces...

Don't you love the fun colors and patterns? There's lots more where that came from in her amazing Etsy shop (including prints for just $49!). And in case you're feeling lucky, Laura has generously agreed to give away this original 8"x10" painting:

Isn't she a beauty? To enter, please follow Laura's blog and leave a comment below. I will announce the winner here on Friday. Good luck!

Flat Out

Who's ready for the weekend? I'm looking forward to grabbing coffee with a local blogger, spending time with my family, and unplugging as much as possible. I find that these low-key weekends are best tackled in a pair of comfy and cute ballet flats!

Old Navy cap toe flats, $22

Steve Madden pink suede loafers, $69

Topshop pink bow flats, $32

Steve Madden gold sequin flat, $35

J.Crew t-strap ballet flats, $198

Banana Republic cobalt bow flats, $98

Which is your favorite pair and what are you up to this weekend? Have a good one!


P.S. Awesome deals on Bloch ballet flats at Rue La La today! Sign up HERE and shop HERE.


P.P.S. I'm posting about Emma Stone's style on the adorable blog The Now Stylebook today — please pop over and tell Annie and Elizabeth hello!

Who's ready for the weekend? I'm looking forward to grabbing coffee with a local blogger, spending time with my family, and unplugging as much as possible. I find that these low-key weekends are best tackled in a pair of comfy and cute ballet flats!

Old Navy cap toe flats, $22

Steve Madden pink suede loafers, $69

Topshop pink bow flats, $32

Steve Madden gold sequin flat, $35

J.Crew t-strap ballet flats, $198

Banana Republic cobalt bow flats, $98

Which is your favorite pair and what are you up to this weekend? Have a good one!


P.S. Awesome deals on Bloch ballet flats at Rue La La today! Sign up HERE and shop HERE.


P.P.S. I'm posting about Emma Stone's style on the adorable blog The Now Stylebook today — please pop over and tell Annie and Elizabeth hello!

Interviews!

I'm thrilled to have had a few interview opportunities open up after announcing the launch of Design Darling {The Boutique}! If you're interested in learning more, I hope you'll stop by these blogs and read up on yours truly!

A big thank you to these ladies and all of you for the early support!

I'm thrilled to have had a few interview opportunities open up after announcing the launch of Design Darling {The Boutique}! If you're interested in learning more, I hope you'll stop by these blogs and read up on yours truly!

A big thank you to these ladies and all of you for the early support!

52 + 53

My family has a goal to see all fifty states together. It doesn't count if just one or two of us visits; all six must be there in order to check a state off the list. So far we've seen 33 states, a list of which you can see in the sidebar HERE. Two of the items on my 101 in 1001 list pertain to this family goal and they are...

52. Figure out the best way to keep track of our family's travels...

53. ...And make progress by crossing at least one more state off our list!

I stumbled upon this map ($60) on Etsy and I think it'd be a fantastic way to note our family's travels. Now to plot our next trip... Shall it be Arizona, Arkansas, Hawaii, Idaho, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Minnesota, Missouri, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, or West Virginia? ;)

Have you done lots of traveling within the U.S.? How do you keep track of your travels?

My family has a goal to see all fifty states together. It doesn't count if just one or two of us visits; all six must be there in order to check a state off the list. So far we've seen 33 states, a list of which you can see in the sidebar HERE. Two of the items on my 101 in 1001 list pertain to this family goal and they are...

52. Figure out the best way to keep track of our family's travels...

53. ...And make progress by crossing at least one more state off our list!

I stumbled upon this map ($60) on Etsy and I think it'd be a fantastic way to note our family's travels. Now to plot our next trip... Shall it be Arizona, Arkansas, Hawaii, Idaho, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Minnesota, Missouri, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, or West Virginia? ;)

Have you done lots of traveling within the U.S.? How do you keep track of your travels?

Hot or cold?

I was cleaning out my closet the other day and noticed that I wear a lot of blue. This will come as no shock since I'm pretty sure 90% of the things I blog about come in navy but I was surprised to see so many different blue hues and so very little pink! I realized that as a redhead I tend to stick with what I know works and steer clear of riskier palettes. Do you gravitate toward one or the other as well?

Nightcap Clothing lace dress / Juicy Couture colorblock dress

Sass & Bide color-block tank / Tibi lace tank 

For the record, I wouldn't mind if each and every one of these came to live in my (newly purged) closet. I think it's time for me to embrace the full spectrum!

P.S. You must check out the back of the Tibi tank! #LOVE

I was cleaning out my closet the other day and noticed that I wear a lot of blue. This will come as no shock since I'm pretty sure 90% of the things I blog about come in navy but I was surprised to see so many different blue hues and so very little pink! I realized that as a redhead I tend to stick with what I know works and steer clear of riskier palettes. Do you gravitate toward one or the other as well?

Nightcap Clothing lace dress / Juicy Couture colorblock dress

Sass & Bide color-block tank / Tibi lace tank 

For the record, I wouldn't mind if each and every one of these came to live in my (newly purged) closet. I think it's time for me to embrace the full spectrum!

P.S. You must check out the back of the Tibi tank! #LOVE

Hot Pink & Turquoise

How fabulous does Erika look in her Better Homes & Gardens feature? I'm so smitten with her pairing of hot pink and turquoise that I had to recreate the look and bookmark it for summertime.

J.Crew tank / Loren Hope necklace

Old Navy skirt / Jack Rogers sandals

So easy but so fabulous! I swear I'm going to live in that maxi skirt this spring and summer. Picture it worn like this for daytime dress and spiffed up with a crisp white button-down and espadrilles for the evening! #yesplease ;)

How fabulous does Erika look in her Better Homes & Gardens feature? I'm so smitten with her pairing of hot pink and turquoise that I had to recreate the look and bookmark it for summertime.

J.Crew tank / Loren Hope necklace

Old Navy skirt / Jack Rogers sandals

So easy but so fabulous! I swear I'm going to live in that maxi skirt this spring and summer. Picture it worn like this for daytime dress and spiffed up with a crisp white button-down and espadrilles for the evening! #yesplease ;)

Bright + Tidy

I have a feeling I could be more productive in this crisp kitchen than I have been in my current workspace. I can't believe the launch of Design Darling {The Boutique} is practically six weeks away! That translates to lots of excitement and lots of work. Time to make another to do list!

image source

I have a feeling I could be more productive in this crisp kitchen than I have been in my current workspace. I can't believe the launch of Design Darling {The Boutique} is practically six weeks away! That translates to lots of excitement and lots of work. Time to make another to do list!

image source