Last spring, I was deep in an exploratory phase, fashion-wise. I was throwing everything at the wall — bright colors, bold accessories, silhouettes I wasn’t sure about — just to see what would stick. My style felt experimental and sometimes all over the place, but leaning into my curiosity was life-giving.
And now, this spring? It’s the complete opposite. I feel so locked in. I know exactly what I want to wear — minimalist, neutral pieces that feel artful in design and familiar in energy. Right now, getting dressed feels serene and aligned. It’s life-giving in a different kind of way.
And here’s the thing:
Last spring wasn’t bad, and this spring isn’t better. They’re just different. And both are valuable.
It’s easy to believe that a cohesive aesthetic means you’ve finally “found your style.”
But style, like most creative things, isn’t a straight line. You’ll find your groove, lose it, and find it again. That’s not failure — it’s how creativity works.
For me, the throughline is delight. Whether I’m wearing energetic colors or soothing neutrals, I’m always trying to follow the thing that feels life-giving in that moment.
Are you in a phase of experimenting or feeling focused? What would it feel like to trust that both are part of the process? How can you meet the moment and find the delight that’s there?
OUTFIT DETAILS
(Consider me your personal shopper — when you make a purchase through the affiliate links in this post, I make a commission at no charge to you.)
Old Boots | Similar: DSW Reny Boots & Frye Kate Harness Boots
Old Polene Paris Umi Bag | Similar: Mansur Gavriel Mini Candy Bag
JEWELRY
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Take good care of yourself today. Thanks for reading Unfancy today — it means so much to me. <3
Your words are so wise, Caroline. I am actually and unexpectedly in a phase of life (53, who knew?) that feels experimental–escalating job issues I hadn’t anticipated; seeing clearly how what has worked for me up to this point no longer is. And not gonna lie, some days that feels daunting. But most days, it’s exciting–I am constantly asking myself what else may be possible. No answers, yet, and that’s ok. Not knowing, as you say, really sparks creativity.
This is a matter of personal taste, but last spring, I loved looking at all your outfits (especially those green printed pants! So fun!) but this spring, when I look at your outfits, I think, “Ohhhhh, I would totally wear that.” I don’t think I would know to make that distinction without your thoughtful writing. Thank you for the quality and beauty you put out into the world!