#SECONDHANDFIRST: Style on the Up + Up

Things are looking up for Tim + Linda Arbogast, a husband and wife design team, who also happen to be the collective, curated eye behind Martin Mattox. Martin Mattox is a Bay Area design/style stockist, with a penchant for mixing unique vintage with perennial modern classics. Somehow, they convey a fresh breath of effortless cool. They've recently relaunched their company, and have set up shop in various retail venues.  Most currently, they've added a sartorial service to their repertoire, introducing their line of curated (mostly unisex) vintage clothing and accessories, alongside a sharply honed selection of clean and keen contemporary brands. (Full disclosure: Tim and Linda are personal friends of mine. In fact, Tim's and my friendship, go back as far as high school; we've known each other for nearly 35 years. I've also worked in the past for their company, having worked with them as a social media and marketing consultant, and occasional copywriter.) 

I've long admired their way of seeing the world and am continually in awe in how Tim + Linda see and use secondhand sourced good as starting points in their design work. Recently, I interviewed them via phone and email, asking them a few questions regarding their newest project.

THE CITIZEN: What triggered the genesis of Martin Mattox? 

MARTIN MATTOX: MM started with our love of collecting, sourcing and finding “that” piece. The fun is in the hunt and being able to bring unique pieces to our customers. We love displaying them in a way that makes them feel fresh and chic!

Guest Post: Odyssey Home

Minimal to the Max: Stephanie Clayton takes us on a style journey at Odyssey Home.

Upon first glance you can probably assess that artist Stephanie Clayton has a strong sense of aesthetics. Upon second glance, you'll probably dig her outfit. Stephanie blogs at Odyssey Home, and it just so happens she's a +40 style blogger. Style in this case, being more a a bigger picture, with a big push in design and decor,  not limited to the mere confines of a wardrobe. I'm pleased as punch that Stephanie consented to write a guest post for The Citizen Rosebud, as there is so much I admire about her and Odyssey Home. Let me introduce to you one amazing woman who happens to be +40, and fabulous. -Bella Q

Wear. Dwell. Live. 
That's the subheading for my blog Odyssey Home- the "home" of personal style and design. I realize the name may give an impression that my blog is all about home decor, which I do feature, but truly the focus is on personal style in all areas. I started the blog in early 2009 as a way to visually document my outfits and, occasionally, home decor; and as a handy way to connect with similar-minded individuals.

I work in the visual arts and this means I am sensitive to aesthetics. I believe good taste is, or should be, consistent, whether in clothing, architecture, furnishings, or other areas in which style plays a role. It's about having a holistic approach, really. I have a tendency to reinvent myself, although now in my 40s I believe I have reached a point of consistency. That's the good thing about having been an adult for a while – you evolve into this person with tastes and tendencies honed by years of living, paying attention, and caring about what you put on your body and what you bring into your personal space. Hopefully things start to fall into place as you become discerning. Obviously there is more to life than personal adornment and home decor; but these things make life a little more beautiful and interesting.