THE ROOT 9: 16.3

We all have them—expectations, fears, old narratives, unspoken rules. Like puppeteers behind the curtain, they guide our choices in ways we don’t always notice. The question isn’t whether they exist, but whether we’ve paused long enough to see who—or what—is holding the strings.

As you head into your weekend, consider: What would it look like to gently take back the threads and move more freely, more intentionally?

Treasure Hunting, In Real Life

This weekend, I’m hoping to hit up an estate sale after I saw a unique one pop up on TikTok—something I’ve been meaning to do more of. There’s something special about walking through a home and imagining the lives that once filled it. I love thinking about the stories behind the objects I find—what kind of life they lived before me, the energy they carry, and the new stories I get to create with them. It feels like a quiet kind of magic, giving something a second life while honoring the one it had before. It’s like thrifting but less curated.

Some of my favorite items in our apartment are ones I’ve gotten from estate sales: a unique pair of wooden coasters, a handcrafted side table that looks like a funky tree stump, and my favorite set of two clay mugs I make my lattes (or pre-workout lol) in every morning. They’re not just different—they bring me back to the day I found them in a different way than purchasing a new pair of shoes online does.

When it comes to clothes, the jackets and vintage belts I’ve collected over the years from estate sales and secondhand shops are the ones that always get noticed. My favorite purchase was finding a Christian Dior vintage collared button-up in pristine condition.

If you’ve never been to one, estate sales are like garage sales with a little more drama and a lot more character. You can usually find listings online (try estatesales.net or local Facebook groups), and they’re often full of unexpected gems—from furniture and art to books, records, and kitchenware. They can be chaotic, but I like that.

So if you’re looking for a unique weekend activity, consider going on a little treasure hunt. Who knows what stories you’ll bring home?

Psychic-Approved Summer Style

I came across a TikTok this week where a girl shares how a psychic told her that her friend’s brand was about to blow up. As she’s telling the story, she’s unboxing the cutest pieces—and honestly, the psychic was right. The brand is Mirchi by Kim, and it’s giving everything I want for summer: playful, bold, and full of personality.

Founded in August 2024 by 25-year-old model Kimaya Singh, Mirchi is described as a love letter to Indian craftsmanship and slow fashion. Inspired by her life between New York and India, Mirchi blends traditional embroidery with modern silhouettes—think beaded mini skirts, flirty tanks, vibrant dresses, and standout bags. Every piece is a little celebration.

Here’s the TikTok if you want to see the vibe for yourself. And below are a few of my favorite picks—perfect for festivals, gifting, or just adding a little sparkle to your summer wardrobe. To me, something from here would say “I saw this and thought of you” in the best way.