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On Fridays, we’ll take a breath: See below for some commentary on apparel trends I’m loving or things I’m eyeing, a fun activity to consider, and some food for thought as you enter your weekend 🙂
1/3. Fashion / Retail Therapy
Revival of the clog?
The dance between comfort and style pirouettes once again, a familiar melody echoing through the 2025 fashion landscape. Back in 2021, I spent some time working remotely from an AirBnB in Park City, Utah. Surprisingly, Park City was heaven on earth for the thrifter in me. I stumbled upon a unique pair of handmade clogs in flawless condition. I purchased them at a price that almost felt like a steal - they were a treasure waiting for their moment, a moment that, it seems, has finally arrived.
The resurgence of the clog may not be fleeting trend but a sartorial echo of the broader bohemian revival sweeping through both men's and women's wardrobes. Women's collections are awash with flowing flares, delicate lace, and playful frills, often anchored by rugged Western undertone of fringe and supple suede (Notably, Chloé and Isabel Marant). Yet, beyond the garments, the clog stands as a tangible emblem of this movement.
In a retail landscape increasingly craving authenticity and tactile experiences, the handmade quality of a clog resonates deeply. It embodies a slower, more mindful approach to fashion, a departure from the ephemeral churn of fast trends. This isn't just about footwear; it's about embracing a lifestyle, a philosophy. It's about grounding oneself in the natural, the handcrafted, the effortlessly chic.
If you’re thinking about a pair for yourself, here’s how I’d dress up a clog.
Pictured items and links can be found on our Pinterest here
And…just for fun, here’s a photo of how I wore the pair I picked up for myself on a grocery run last weekend:
2/3. Fun!
Book & Bant?
Earlier this year, over dinner with friends, I'd mentioned wanting to read more consistently after a holiday reading binge. They told me about their book club and how it helped them connect with new people in the Bay. They invited me to join and I'm so glad they did. Instead of just wishing I'd read more, the book club's structure helped me action on that, while strengthening old friendships and forging new ones.
Book club offers the perfect blend of a social gathering and a cozy night in (though you can always opt for happy hour cocktails to avoid hosting). It’s a great excuse for everyone to bring their favorite snacks and relax together: think comfy clothes, dim lighting, a mix of homemade and store-bought treats, and the non-negotiable Instagram-worthy charcuterie board.
What I took away from my book club experience was the way book discussions naturally led to more vulnerable and intimate conversations. Those "aha" moments—realizing someone shares your feelings about a character, debating the book's possible endings, and hearing characters' journeys connect to others’ lived experiences—all of these create space for deeper connections. It's about building meaningful friendships and creating lasting memories beyond a simple get-together.
I’m not claiming to have reinvented the wheel here, but it’s a fun way to spice things up and add some variety.
Here's a quick blue print on how you can set one up in no time:
Your Book Club Blueprint:
The Group Chat Text: Start by texting your friends & see who's as excited as you are.
Location, Location, Location: Find a comfy home / apartment to host the first meeting (or pick an HH location!)
The Book Curator: The host gets to pick your book options.
The Vote: Let everyone vote on their favorite - a simple poll in the group chat (now an Imessage feature) works perfect
Set the Date! Host sends several dates that work for them and everyone ‘likes’ the message if they can come - most votes wins.
The Big Event: Dive into the book, share your thoughts, and just enjoy each other's company.
The Cycle Continues: After the first meeting, the next host picks new book options, and the cycle repeats!
3/3. Food for Thought
What does it mean to you to embrace ‘thinking in the grey’?
For the most part, we're wired for black and white. At least, that's my experience; it's often my default. Embracing the nuanced space between extremes is difficult. Great work product? Success. Missed deadline? Failure.
For me, "thinking in the grey" acknowledges the in-between: the "par for the course," the "learning curve," the "baseline." It can free me from the pressure of constant highs and crushing lows, allowing me to find contentment in the present and recognize that "enough" is often a beautiful, liberating place to be.
True richness often lies in the subtle shades of everyday experience. Are you embracing yours?
It's been such a pleasure having you along for THE ROOT 9's first week! I'm so grateful you've taken the time to read and engage with the newsletter. To help me make it better, I'd love to hear any thoughts or feedback you have. Feel free to send any requests, ideas, or suggestions to [email protected]!
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