THE ROOT 9: 5.3

The Hunt for Heritage and Building a Layered Look

A couples weeks ago I mentioned my hunt for a bomber. I’m obsessing over another outerwear piece and I’m realizing the reason why I’m so drawn to it. The shoulder seasons have grown my admiration for people who just nail layering effortlessly. A simple base layer, a perfectly rumpled collared shirt, and an effortlessly chic jacket thrown on top.

My outerwear can feel a bit… last-minute. Like it’s more about function than fashion, and doesn’t always tie everything together in that cool, intentional way. So, I’m leaning into searching for something a bit more utilitarian, and I think I’ll find it through a thrift quest - The Carhartt WIP OG Detroit Jacket.

I tie the jacket to the iconic 501s and how they’ve lasted the test of time. In addition to their rich history, what makes them so truly special, I think, is seeing someone’s face light up when they talk about the history of their favorite jean. It’s more than just denim; it’s about the way it ages. Each pair develops it’s own patina, a unique character etched in over time. They get softer, the colors fade in these individual ways – you see the distinct outlines of where someone’s phone or wallet has been carried countless times, telling a silent story of daily life.

And in a way, the Carhartt WIP OG Detroit Jacket feels like a cousin to that. Think about it – both pieces started as functional workwear, built to withstand some serious wear and tear. Levi Strauss and Jacob Davis patented the riveted denim pant in 1873, creating something that could hold up to the demands of laborers. Fast forward a bit, and Carhartt was founded in 1889, also with a focus on durable workwear for railroad workers. The Detroit Jacket, with its stiff, heavyweight duck canvas, is a direct descendant of that heritage. It's built to last, meant to be worked in, and just like those 501s, it develops its own unique character over time, reflecting the life it’s lived.

Now, sustainability in retail is a huge deal, and rightly so. More and more, consumers are making it a priority, and brands are listening. Carhartt’s recent switch from their iconic duck canvas to Dearborn Canvas, an organic cotton alternative, is a great example of this. I totally get it, and I applaud brands making these kinds of changes. But there’s something about the ruggedness, the heft of that original duck canvas that I find so intriguing.

So, I’m on the hunt to sustainably thrift a vintage Carhartt WIP Detroit jacket of duck canvas. I want to find a piece that already has a history, a story etched into its fabric by someone else. I love the idea of building on that narrative, adding my own chapters to its life. Plus, let’s be real, they just look so effortlessly cool. Here are a couple of inspo pics I’m loving right now…

Witnessing the Bloom

The last week of March and 1st week of April comes with the most vibrant promise of spring…the magical appearance of cherry blossoms. I’ve went on an outdoor walk / run every day this week and I’ve started to see the delicate pink and white blooms transform the city. It makes my heart so happy.

And it got me thinking…it’s a unique way to forgo a usual weekend plan and make the most of the prime time to witness this natural spectacle. Whether you're looking for a fun activity to do with friends, a sweet moment with your mom, a different date idea, or even just some peaceful solo time, chasing cherry blossoms is perfect.

I did some quick research and wanted to provide a quick rundown of where you can find these beauties blooming in some key cities:

San Francisco Bay Area:

Los Angeles:

New York City:

Chicago:

Here’s a photo I captured from a walk this week that made me smile 😊 Happy blooming! 🌸💖

I read the above quote over the week and I think it challenges a fundamental human tendency in a beautiful way. In a world where opposing beliefs can so easily create barriers between us, what can we build on if we prioritized our shared existence instead? Is there opportunity in your life from this past week to reflect on that can serve as a lesson to shift to a mindset more geared towards unity?