Alicia Lewis, a native Clevelander who now resides in Akron, is the blogger behind The Tree's Roots. The blog serves as an outlet for two of her passions: journalism and fashion. Alicia was kind enough to answer some questions via email about blogging, inspiration and personal style; read on to see what she had to say:
How would you describe your blog?
The Tree’s Roots (TTR) is kind of a grab bag of fashion, beauty and home decor, but from an approachable and affordable standpoint. I think women tend to shy away from fashion and think that there is no way that they can emulate runway looks or things they see on celebrities. But it’s just not true. It’s so easy to find similar looks. Style is not about price tags, it’s about how you work with what you have and make it your own. Same goes for home decor. You can easily amp up a room for less than $150, you just have to know where to look and what to look for.
What made you decide to start blogging?
I started out at Kent State with a magazine journalism major, but by my sophomore year (2010), I decided to double major and added a fashion merchandising major to my course load. It was around then that I really started blogging, I loved being able to use my writing skills and my fashion skills in one outlet. And I also loved helping women with fashion questions and advice. It was just something I initially did for myself that turned into something people could really relate to.
How would you describe your personal style?
My personal style is really all about classic, tailored staples with trendy pieces thrown in. I’m a sucker for a great structured white button-up. it’s so versatile and can go with a bold-printed skirt or skinny jeans. It’s a must for any woman’s closet. My closet is about 40 percent white shirts, I don’t even mean for it to happen, it’s just what I’m drawn to. I also love a great skinny ankle pant with a pointed-toe flat, it just gives you nice long lines and looks super put together.
Where do you find inspiration for your blog?
I find inspiration pretty much everywhere. Instagram is my go-to these days. It’s just so easy to scroll through so many people that inspire you and it just gives me so many ideas. @real_simple, @dannonkcollardmua and @dinasdays (a local blogger) are currently my favorite instagrams to look at for styling inspiration. I also love looking at a @abeautifulmess, I could look at their feed and website ALL DAY.
What is the best piece of style advice you've ever received?
I think it would have to be from Stacy London, I used to watch "What Not to Wear" CONSTANTLY,… maybe that’s where my love of fashion came from… Anyway one time she told someone on the show to buy what fits and what looks good on your body now. Don’t look at sizing because it varies so much from store to store, it’s simply ridiculous. If you feel good in it and look good in it, buy it. Don’t not buy something because you can’t fit in you “ideal” size, your size is your size and you’re beautiful, dress your body in beautiful things, it deserves it.
What advice would you give to someone interested in starting a blog?
I would say you have to do it for you, because you love it. Fashion blogs are so saturated right now and it’s tough to see these big-time bloggers with millions of followers making six figures for blogging, it’s not the norm. You have to love doing it and put forth what you would want to see in a blog. Put your heart, voice and soul into it and make it really relatable. You have to find a way to set yourself apart from all the others out there, because there are MANY MANY others.
To learn more about Alicia and to keep up with her blog, visit The Tree's Roots.
