Guest Post: Ashley Hook of Rogue Roots

Sacramento native Ashley Hooks is a thrifty fashion blogger lives in hi-style on a lo-budget. She writes from Lodi, CA.

I am pleased to introduce you to a fellow Californian fashion blogger, Ashley Hook of Lodi, California. I heard about her from my BFF, a certain Ms. Moore, high school teacher extraordinaire who told me about one of her favorite students who has since graduated, who had the best fashion sense. The BFF then told me that Ashley had a blog, which I promptly followed. I am thrilled to have Ashley as a guest blogger at the Citizen, and I hope you take a moment to check out her blog: Rogue Roots.

As a thrifty fashion blogger, I get a lot of questions and comments about the clothes I wear. Sometimes they are nice like, "That is so cute! Where did you get that?" and sometimes they are more subtly not-so-nice like, "Wow. I would never wear that." But, the most wonderful thing about personal style is...it's all about expressing yourself. What joy! You don't have to dress for anyone but yourself! (and sometimes that is fun too). I think there are a lot of people out there though that are a little hesitant and unsure about personal style, especially when it comes to incorporating thrifted items into their wardrobe. So, I've created some quick tips on how to look fab without spending a fortune and still maintain a unique approach to dressing.

1. PAY ATTENTION TO PROPORTION If you don't read past this, at least read this because it is the most important part of dressing. We all, obviously, have different bodies. And we all have parts of our bodies that we like and dislike (trust me, even the skinny-minnies). So, when it comes to dressing, it's all about highlighting our best assets and cleverly camouflaging, well...the rest. However, proportion is not just about accentuation, it's about creating the illusion of balance and symmetry in the body - like makeup! This is especially crucial when it comes to purchasing items second-hand because a lot of styles that were once popular are, thankfully, no longer. Case it point: tapered "mom" jeans, shoulder pads in floral print t-shirts, etc. etc.  My rule of thumb? When it doubt, throw it out. No sense in buying something that doesn't make you feel and look like a million bucks!

2. BUY YOUR JACKETS SECOND-HAND Jackets are a staple in any wardrobe. And they are often a key piece in bringing structure or an interesting focal point to an outfit. In high school, my greatest thrill was finding really beautiful and unique jackets from thrift stores and pairing them with more bohemian pieces like distressed flared denim or gaucho pants (hello, 2004). The plus side? A lot of consignment and thrift stores have a wide variety of jackets in all shapes, sizes and colors. And feel free to browse the men and children's sections, too! There are plenty of do-able options (like blazers, trenches and fur coats) if you keep an open mind and a sharp eye!

3. EXPLORE YOUR PERSONALITY I think the most important part of creating an individual style is to define your likes and dislikes. If you hate the color red or wouldn't be caught dead in sparkles, you obviously would not be drawn to a maroon sequined dress. But likewise, we all instinctively know what we enjoy outside of our closets. Well, the good news is, you can incorporate your personality into your wardrobe. For instance, if you are a nature buff, you can look for things that mimic the colors already found in nature: deep greens, chocolate browns, sky blues, etc. Or, if you're more of a sci-fi fan, look for items that are more asymmetrical, or perhaps have hints of neon colors. Whatever it is that you like, just remember to K.I.S.S. - keep it simple and sweet. And have fun!

4. MIX IT UP Don't be afraid to try new things. I think the greatest misconception is fashion is that it is "so serious". Who said?! Fashion is meant to be playful, exciting, inventive...a joyful expression of who you are as a person. You can look sophisticated and sleek one day and rocker chic another. There are no rules and no mistakes. One aesthetic is not right for everyone! And if you're worried about taking risks because of what someone else might think, I have news for you: there will always be critics. No amount of change was ever made without someone trying to slam the breaks on. So, go ahead, take a fashion leap. If anything, you can look back ten years later and laugh. (And you probably will either way!) 

 

I hope this was helpful and that you all  take stock in the fact that you are magnificent and unique creatures and deserve to be showcased to the world. Let the beauty of the world speak through you...and happy bargain hunting! 

Ashley is sitting pretty over at Rogue Roots.

Ashley Hook is the writer and designer behind the blog, http://www.rogueroots.blogspot.com/. She is also the author and publisher of a 2010 collection of non-fiction and poetry entitled, "Licorice". When she is not documenting her daily musings and inspirations, you can find her at local thrift stores, farmer's markets, poetry readings, book stores or hanging out with her grandparents playing scrabble. Aside from being a vintage enthusiast and collector, she also sells her unique finds in her online shop, http://www.etsy.com/shop/ipreferthrifty

(Editor's note: you can buy Ashley's book Licorice on Amazon.com here. )