FOURTH OF JULY ON NANTUCKET

I think this was my favorite Fourth of July in recent memory. Unlike our trip in June, everything on the island was in bloom and it was warm enough to swim in the ocean. The waves were huge after the hurricane and I actually got sucked under at one point. Our family used to call that "getting boiled"... Not sure that that's a technical term but it's definitely a feeling I wouldn't wish on anyone. Scary! I made a not-so-graceful exit from the water and spent the rest of the day chatting and reading on the beach. Note to self: try not to drown next time and, if you are going to embarrass yourself, at least wear a really cute swimsuit while you do.

I packed my new favorite bikini from Topshop ($64) and my handy Turkish towel ($29). I use these guys for everything: the beach, weekends in the park, and even a makeshift scarf on chilly nights. Also available in navy and pink.

We schlepped my bicycle into the car and across the ferry only for it to pour rain the first day we were there. When I spotted this pretty bike parked at the beach, I had to take a snap! I can't wait to take it out for a spin on our next trip... Morning coffee runs, here I come! P.S. I was thinking about carrying cute bike baskets in the boutique; would anyone besides me be interested?!

Hydrangeas are one of my favorite flowers (tied with peonies and tulips). Can you even stand how gorgeous these are? There were mountains of them on every corner... Just one of many reasons why Nantucket is my favorite place on the planet.

Even a gray day is gorgeous with blooms like these. My iPhone was essentially a portfolio of pictures of hydrangeas all weekend. Not mad about it.

Thankfully the weather was much nicer on our second day so we drove out to 'Sconset in the morning to have brunch with my grandmother and walk out to the lighthouse. How pretty is the view of the Summer House? Fun fact: my mom had a summer job here in the 1970s. 

We went back out to 'Sconset for church on Sunday and of course I was late because I felt the need to photograph this car. Can you even?! Dream cottage, dream car, dream life.

In the afternoon, Amy and I popped into a bunch of shops in town. I love the little walkway to Peter Beaton, where my grandmother has her hats made and Amy picked up an adorable striped shirt.

The summer that I turned 16, I worked in the cutest flower shop on the island in the gift shop upstairs. My favorite job (besides cutting in flowers from the morning delivery because, really, who wouldn't want to be surrounded by fresh flowers all day?) was sorting all the grosgrain ribbon. At the time I would beg my mom to sew ribbon belts out of them; now I'm dreaming of a craft wall for wrapping packages for Design Darling!

You can usually count on me to forget at least one or two necessities when packing for a trip... This time it was an oxford shirt (ridiculous since I live in them every season). I borrowed Will's gingham shirt (J.Crew, $64), threw on my cross body bag (Tory Burch, $295 $206), and called it a day. Oh and the nail polish is Essie's Clambake — the perfect beach color.

Until next time!

P.S. Sailing Nantucket and what's in my summer bag.

I think this was my favorite Fourth of July in recent memory. Unlike our trip in June, everything on the island was in bloom and it was warm enough to swim in the ocean. The waves were huge after the hurricane and I actually got sucked under at one point. Our family used to call that "getting boiled"... Not sure that that's a technical term but it's definitely a feeling I wouldn't wish on anyone. Scary! I made a not-so-graceful exit from the water and spent the rest of the day chatting and reading on the beach. Note to self: try not to drown next time and, if you are going to embarrass yourself, at least wear a really cute swimsuit while you do.

I packed my new favorite bikini from Topshop ($64) and my handy Turkish towel ($29). I use these guys for everything: the beach, weekends in the park, and even a makeshift scarf on chilly nights. Also available in navy and pink.

We schlepped my bicycle into the car and across the ferry only for it to pour rain the first day we were there. When I spotted this pretty bike parked at the beach, I had to take a snap! I can't wait to take it out for a spin on our next trip... Morning coffee runs, here I come! P.S. I was thinking about carrying cute bike baskets in the boutique; would anyone besides me be interested?!

Hydrangeas are one of my favorite flowers (tied with peonies and tulips). Can you even stand how gorgeous these are? There were mountains of them on every corner... Just one of many reasons why Nantucket is my favorite place on the planet.

Even a gray day is gorgeous with blooms like these. My iPhone was essentially a portfolio of pictures of hydrangeas all weekend. Not mad about it.

Thankfully the weather was much nicer on our second day so we drove out to 'Sconset in the morning to have brunch with my grandmother and walk out to the lighthouse. How pretty is the view of the Summer House? Fun fact: my mom had a summer job here in the 1970s. 

We went back out to 'Sconset for church on Sunday and of course I was late because I felt the need to photograph this car. Can you even?! Dream cottage, dream car, dream life.

In the afternoon, Amy and I popped into a bunch of shops in town. I love the little walkway to Peter Beaton, where my grandmother has her hats made and Amy picked up an adorable striped shirt.

The summer that I turned 16, I worked in the cutest flower shop on the island in the gift shop upstairs. My favorite job (besides cutting in flowers from the morning delivery because, really, who wouldn't want to be surrounded by fresh flowers all day?) was sorting all the grosgrain ribbon. At the time I would beg my mom to sew ribbon belts out of them; now I'm dreaming of a craft wall for wrapping packages for Design Darling!

You can usually count on me to forget at least one or two necessities when packing for a trip... This time it was an oxford shirt (ridiculous since I live in them every season). I borrowed Will's gingham shirt (J.Crew, $64), threw on my cross body bag (Tory Burch, $295 $206), and called it a day. Oh and the nail polish is Essie's Clambake — the perfect beach color.

Until next time!

P.S. Sailing Nantucket and what's in my summer bag.

NANTUCKET IN JUNE

It's impossible for me to go to Nantucket without embracing my love of nautical style. This monogrammed bikini is basically my new favorite thing in the entire world. Can you even?! Other summer musts: an anchor infinity scarf, mint cat eye sunglasses, and a cross-body bag that doubles as a clutch.

The Naushop clubhouse... So many memories of Marco Polo and shuffleboard with my siblings.

Amy and I are always on the lookout for colorful doors and cute door-knockers. Don't you love this starfish? I wish I could add an anchor or a lobster to my apartment door but somehow I don't think my landlord would be keen on the idea. :(

Spotted my dream car in the neighborhood. I learned to drive in a Land Rover Discovery so I'll always a soft spot for them! The Defender is the ultimate island car in my book.

No trip to Nantucket is complete without a stop at Sankaty. My parents took their wedding pictures here 28 years ago! 

My mom grew up spending summers in a house on Baxter Road... Safe to say that's the address of my ultimate dream home.

Fell in love with this little ship on the outside of one of the cottages. Would love to find a similar vintage piece for my parents' place!

The Chanticleer, where my parents had their rehearsal dinner. No matter how many times I stroll the streets of 'Sconset, I'll never tire of its quaint charm.

Watching the sun set over Old South Wharf in town. I've been living in this Swiss dot tuxedo top.

Always nice to pop into One Orange Shop and see what's new. Will picked up this belt that matches the one my grandmother needlepointed for me!

Jacks and Krewe... What else is new? ;) Itching to get back for July 4th next week!

It's impossible for me to go to Nantucket without embracing my love of nautical style. This monogrammed bikini is basically my new favorite thing in the entire world. Can you even?! Other summer musts: an anchor infinity scarf, mint cat eye sunglasses, and a cross-body bag that doubles as a clutch.

The Naushop clubhouse... So many memories of Marco Polo and shuffleboard with my siblings.

Amy and I are always on the lookout for colorful doors and cute door-knockers. Don't you love this starfish? I wish I could add an anchor or a lobster to my apartment door but somehow I don't think my landlord would be keen on the idea. :(

Spotted my dream car in the neighborhood. I learned to drive in a Land Rover Discovery so I'll always a soft spot for them! The Defender is the ultimate island car in my book.

No trip to Nantucket is complete without a stop at Sankaty. My parents took their wedding pictures here 28 years ago! 

My mom grew up spending summers in a house on Baxter Road... Safe to say that's the address of my ultimate dream home.

Fell in love with this little ship on the outside of one of the cottages. Would love to find a similar vintage piece for my parents' place!

The Chanticleer, where my parents had their rehearsal dinner. No matter how many times I stroll the streets of 'Sconset, I'll never tire of its quaint charm.

Watching the sun set over Old South Wharf in town. I've been living in this Swiss dot tuxedo top.

Always nice to pop into One Orange Shop and see what's new. Will picked up this belt that matches the one my grandmother needlepointed for me!

Jacks and Krewe... What else is new? ;) Itching to get back for July 4th next week!

WHERE TO EAT ON NANTUCKET

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

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

Millie's

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

Galley Beach 

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

Other favorite spots:

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

- Brunch at Black Eyed Susan's

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

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

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

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

*photos by Amy Stone and from my Instagram

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

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

Millie's

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

Galley Beach 

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

Other favorite spots:

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

- Brunch at Black Eyed Susan's

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

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

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

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

*photos by Amy Stone and from my Instagram

OUTFIT {STRIPES IN 'SCONSET}

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

CYNTHIA SMITH ON NANTUCKET

Are you all familiar with vogue.com's Five Days, Five Looks, One Girl feature? I clicked over from (where else?) Pinterest and lit up over fashion associate Cynthia Smith's feature shot on Nantucket. A chic little trench, Ferragamo flats, and my favorite cobblestone streets... I couldn't get enough. Check out the full feature here and shop the slideshow below to get the look:

Are you all familiar with vogue.com's Five Days, Five Looks, One Girl feature? I clicked over from (where else?) Pinterest and lit up over fashion associate Cynthia Smith's feature shot on Nantucket. A chic little trench, Ferragamo flats, and my favorite cobblestone streets... I couldn't get enough. Check out the full feature here and shop the slideshow below to get the look:

SAILING NANTUCKET

One of the highlights of my last trip to Nantucket was a sailboat ride around the sound with thirteen of my siblings, cousins, and friends (recognize Amy, Carly, Emily, and Grayson?). Not only did I get to check off #39 on my 101 in 1001 list but we spent the most delightful hour and a half dangling our feet off the sides of the boat, sipping Prosecco and snacking on picnic foods, and trying not to let our cameras and phones fall overboard. I couldn't have asked for a better group and I'm so happy to have these photos to remember it by.

P.S. I wore this sweater (now on sale) and these jeans!

P.P.S. All photos by my friend F.E. Castleberry. See more sailing shots on his blog here!

One of the highlights of my last trip to Nantucket was a sailboat ride around the sound with thirteen of my siblings, cousins, and friends (recognize Amy, Carly, Emily, and Grayson?). Not only did I get to check off #39 on my 101 in 1001 list but we spent the most delightful hour and a half dangling our feet off the sides of the boat, sipping Prosecco and snacking on picnic foods, and trying not to let our cameras and phones fall overboard. I couldn't have asked for a better group and I'm so happy to have these photos to remember it by.

P.S. I wore this sweater (now on sale) and these jeans!

P.P.S. All photos by my friend F.E. Castleberry. See more sailing shots on his blog here!