I’m so happy to see you again! It feels wonderful to be back in this space.
The last time I talked to you here, Aaron and I were embarking on our nomadic dream life and moving to Seattle.
Do you ever make big plans, then look back later and think:
“Well, that didn’t work out like I thought.”
Me too.
At first, it was the stuff dreams are made of.
On the morning of May 1st, we squeezed into the car with our dog, Steve, and started off on our 5-day road trip from Texas to Seattle. Along the way, we got to stay in fun new places I’d never seen, like Marfa, Phoenix, Palm Springs, and Portland.
Total dream.
We made it to Seattle, borrowed furniture, strung up lights, and called it home. We loved it.
Truth be told, our secret plan was to keep moving after that. Six months here, a year there. Just a couple of nomads, living the life.
All that changed about a month later.
My mom called. She’d found a lump in her breast.
It was cancer.
I cried on the phone with my mom that day.
She had lost her best friend to breast cancer not two years before.
We couldn’t wrap our minds around it, and honestly, we didn’t want to.
After we hung up, I vividly remember standing with Aaron in the kitchen of our apartment, numb. I wanted, needed, to be there for her.
How are we going to make it work? I was asking. Should I fly back and forth each week to be with her for chemo?
None of my solutions were making much sense.
And then Aaron squared my shoulders, looked right into my eyes, and said, “The answer is, we move back to Abilene.”
I’d never been more grateful for him.
We scrambled, and within a few weeks, we had moved back to our dusty little hometown in Texas, a place I never thought I’d live again.
A “boring” place to live.
Ever seen those t-shirts that say “Keep Austin Weird”?
Abilene has t-shirts too.
And they say “Keep Abilene Boring.”
But, slowly, we started feeling intensely drawn to this small-town “boring” life.
We ended up surprising ourselves — and shocking everyone around us — by putting down roots. We bought a little 1930’s fixer-upper and lived with my parents for three months while we restored it.
Living with my parents had its challenges, of course. But I wouldn’t have had it any other way because I got to be right there with my mom through surgeries, chemo treatments, and most importantly, the in-between stuff.
During those long days and nights at my parents’ house, the house I grew up in, I did a lot of soul-searching.
I struggled. When you watch someone you love suffer, it’s hard to know what to do, how to feel.
Sad? Somber?
Or,
Upbeat? Hopeful?
I began to realize the answer isn’t either/or.
It’s both.
As much as we try to organize life into this or that, black or white, something always comes along and bumps into our carefully filled containers, spilling them.
They mix.
All at once, I felt this truth touch almost all areas of life.
We are a little bit this and a little bit that.
It made me think of Unfancy. Because that’s what Unfancy is too, isn’t it? It’s a place where two seemingly opposite ideas mix — fashion and contentment.
I love creating my style and finding that beautifully made piece that feels so me.
…And…
I also love the peace that comes with deciding I have enough.
I had a feeling that a lot of you could identify with that mix too.
And it was then that I realized I had something on my heart again. Something to say. A conversation to share.
So that’s why I wanted to keep writing. To explore the mix. To move beyond a carefully-contained life.
…
Aaron and I finally moved into our home right before Christmas. We didn’t have running water in the kitchen yet, and there were a million little things left to do, but we didn’t care — we were home.
And soon after, my mom finished chemotherapy, and we cried again, this time happy tears, because all tests point to a full recovery.
I’m so happy to get to tell you that she’s growing stronger and more vibrant every day. She’s like a new person, living more boldly than I’ve ever seen her. Experiencing this new phase with her is golden.
So … when I look back over the past 8 months, I think, “Well, that didn’t work out like I thought.”
We aren’t nomads. We aren’t living in exciting cities.
But we feel like we’re where we belong — with the people we belong to.
And that was better than our plans.
Not easier.
But better.
A few of you have been reaching out with questions, so I thought I’d go ahead and answer them here:
Q: Are you still living with a capsule?
A: Not in the way you’re used to seeing me do a capsule. I’m not filling out my wardrobe planner every three months. I’m not counting the number of pieces in my closet.
Instead, I’ve let the structure fade and I’ve adopted the heart of it — smaller closet, intentional purchases, less shopping, and more joy.
With everything that happened over the hiatus, I have to say that clothes were the last thing on my mind.
But you know what was great?
It was like all of the effort I put into creating an intentional wardrobe the year before paid off — at times I couldn’t focus any energy on getting cute, but I had this wonderful autopilot wardrobe there for me.
I had everything I needed + loved already. So no matter how stressful things were, I got the small joy of dressing + feeling like “myself.”
So it’s still paying off. I’m still wearing — and loving — almost all of the old pieces you saw on the blog before the hiatus.
But I’d say I’m off the “capsule diet.” Now it’s just part of my lifestyle — like a healthy habit.
Q: What can we expect you to write about now on Unfancy?
A: It’ll be pretty similar, except I won’t be posting my capsule wardrobes each season. I know — it’s a bummer! But I’m excited to share my real journey with you — you know, the continuing story. And right now, for me, that means talking about what life + style looks like outside of the capsule structure you’re used to seeing here.
You can still expect to see unfancy outfit ideas with every post. And we’ll still talk about a lot of the old things we used to talk about: clothes, confidence, creating your personal style, and building an intentional closet.
One thing will be different though, and I’m super excited about it: I’m really excited to start exploring slow fashion, introduce you to some small makers, and let you in on my inner journey with it all.
…
I’m just so glad to see you again. I know this post was super long — thanks for reading it. :)
Now, tell me, how have you been?!
(And hey, what do you think about the new site? If you catch any glitches or typos, email me at unfancyblog@gmail.com)
I can’t believe I’m the first one to comment, but I am so glad you are back! Well wishes for your family and I’d like to thank you for the impact you’ve had on my life, yours is and will be a long-standing favorite blog of mine! Excited for what’s to come :)
I super-missed you! I kept checking back, on and off, to see if you were blogging again. I love the new look on your site, it’s gorgeous and simplistic. What I adore most of all is the post that you wrote about your mother, your outlook on life, the sudden changes in your plans that put you on the path that is soulful. You’re humble and kind, and that’s beautiful. Thank you for being here and coming back to the web!
Just so happy to see you back..and happy after all you’ve been through. Here’s a little (old) something I have learned to live by that you might also relate to "…Let it be, let it be-there will be an anwer..Let it be". Welcome back!
So excited you’re back. I discovered the life of a capsule last summer and preach capsule wardrobes until I’m blue in the face. The Internet is so happy to have you again!
So happy to know all is well with you, sista! Glad you’re back!!!
I’m so pleased to see you back! I started reading just a couple months before you last signed off and then followed along on Instagram, and I’m most excited to see this new iteration of your blog. And above everything else I am so happy to hear that your mum is in recovery! Cheers!
I just squealed with glee when I saw this new post! I found your blog about a month before your hiatus began, and although I was sad to see you go your posts helped inspire me to find my style and edit my wardrobe down in a purposeful and practical way. I am so glad that your mother is well and I look forward to this new focus on your blog. It sounds like exciting things are in the works so thank you, Caroline, for allowing us to be along for the ride!
I think you’re awesome with a beautiful transparent heart and positive view on life. It’s inspiring and I’m so glad your mom is recovered. Praying she stays that way. Can’t wait to see the new clothing posts! The site is rad.
So excited that you are back! I love the mix of fashion and contentment that you bring to this space. It seems as though fashion can be a shallow thing, but you make it fun and purposeful ’96 and I think that’s probably how it’s supposed to be! I kept wondering if you would incorporate more long-lasting, craftsman-ish pieces when you were building capsules before, so I’m glad you will be including that now!
love love love this! I found your blog while you were hiatus, and I cant wait to see what comes along!
Love love LOVE this. All of it. So beautifully written and so relatable/inspiring. Excited for this new phase of un-fancy!
Thank you so much for sharing your story. It’s so inspiring to see your honesty and openness to new journeys. Life is full of the unexpected! Looking forward to more posts.
So beautifully written and designed. I’ve been looking forward to your return to the blog and now super excited to see where the new unfancy goes. Welcome back! You are truly an inspiration on style, being an amazing daughter, and living intentionally. Thanks for sharing your story and style with us.
Caroline! This post made me smile, tear up, laugh and smile again (creepily alone at my desk ha!). I’m so happy to hear about your Mom, you’ve been in my thoughts and my heart during what must have been an impossibly difficult time. I’m glad you got to be there for her and see her come through victorious! Congratulations on the house! We bought a fixer upper too and it’s been both a harrowing and rewarding experience to renovate it. Can’t wait to see all the goodness you’ve got in store for us. Welcome back! xoxo
yay! you’re back! I can’t wait to read everything you write and I DEFINITELY can’t wait to see house photos! :)
xox
Allie
allienotsally.blogspot.com
Well I was also going to start my comment, "Love love LOVE this" but Anne beat me to it. I’m so excited to hear about this chapter of unfancy!
I’m so happy that you’re back! Loved this post. Also, I’m so happy that your mom is well. Looking forward to your future posts!!
– Luz Infante
SO happy you are back!! And so very happy that your momma is doing well too! :)
Beyond excited for the new Unfancy and to see how it’s become more of a lifestyle for you vs. being so structured!! I would also personally love to see/read more about the process of remodeling your fixer upper and how you find contentment with home decorating if you’re willing! :)
I also found your blog while you were on hiatus so I am delighted to see you are back! Your messages and perspectives are so refreshing and inspiring! Looking forward to more!
Glad you’re back, & so happy to hear that Momma is doing so well! God bless you all.
I will happily join into the chorus of, "I’m glad you are back!" I am so glad your mom is making a recovery. It sounds like your blog will be taking a great direction and I’m looking forward to following along!
Welcome back, dude! Looking forward to reading. :D
Wow, Caroline. Beautiful post. I’m so glad you’re back and your Mom is doing so well– I’ll be here for what comes next…
HAPPY!!
Happy that the blog is back (reading the post was like settling in for a chat with a friend you haven’t seen in ages…and it was wonderful).
Happy that your momma is recovering (my dad’s cancer returned as your momma’s started, so I deeply felt for you and prayed for her recovery).
Happy new site (somehow even simpler, but wonderful).
Thanks for sharing your journey (and super excited about slow fashion!!)
I’m not usually much of a commenter, but I’m so glad you’re back! I think I found your blog after you started your break, so I went back and enjoyed reading through all your old posts. I’m looking forward to following along on your journey again. And I’m so glad to hear your mom is doing well. Welcome back!!
Caroline, I found your blog just as you began your hiatus and have followed you through Instagram since. Thank you so much for giving us such a heart-felt synopsis of this past year. I loved hearing the growth you have experienced as you walked through deep things and the shifts that you are incorporating into this next phase of life. I love your fashion sense and the contentment that you exude in your search for simple and real living! Thank you for your honesty! I look forward to reading more and seeing the direction you are heading!
Thanks for coming back to share your journey. You have always been so eloquent and relatable.
Looking at the date of your last post it’s crazy to think of what has happened in my own life since then. It seemed like just yesterday I was settling into a new city and couldn’t wait to get up early and read your blog before starting the day. Through your blog I was able to define my own fun wardrobe structure which is still always changing. But, like you say, now it has become more of a back drop of what is on my mind as life carries on.
Looking forward to what’s in store.
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Welcome back, Caroline! I missed you and your blog! :)
Thank you for sharing this update! It was very inspiring. And I’m glad to hear that your mom is doing better! I was praying for her!
It’s neat how the capsule wardrobe idea has become part of your lifestyle! I tried the capsule wardrobe challenge and personally I found it too restricting. So instead I just drastically downsized my wardrobe, shopped less, and am more mindful of my purchases! Anyways, you inspired me. :)
Excited to join you on this new journey!
xo, Victoria
P.S. I love the way you organized your new site! :)
So so so happy to have you back here! Your site is such an inspiration – both in fashion and life stuff. Thanks for being open and honest – so special to find on the web. Happy you found peace at home too – those "exciting" cities are always there to explore no matter if your roots are planted.
I discovered your blog right after you went on hiatus. It was the straw that broke the camel’s back for me. I threw out 90% of what I owned and never looked back. I can’t say thank you enough for everything you’ve put out into this little space on the Internet. It changed me and I’m so grateful. I’m still working on my personal style, but I’ve discovered a lot about myself because of you and this blog! So yeah… Thank you. I can’t wait to hear more.
Emily
Caroline, what a journey! Thank you for being real and raw. I think I am in a similar place learning to see the joy in the struggle. I’m reading 1,000 Gifts by Ann Voskamp right now and I highly recommend it. I will be returning often. Love you, sweet friend!
Welcome back! I am excited to read about the new part of your style journey. I never got into the capsule thing and just read The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying (like everybody else). I am getting ready to Konmari my wardrobe and only hold onto the joy. Looking forward to more ideas as I discover my now style.
You know what? I live in Los Angeles, in Hollywood, two blocks away from where the Oscars are held. Los Angeles is an exciting city with a lot of cool neighborhoods and things to do. But we have no family here and really no close friends. I would give anything to be able to live somewhere we were close to people we love, including a boring little town. And yes, I have lived in one of those too and know what it’s like. So congrats on your journey home, on embracing Abilene, and to your mom getting better. I had cancer three years ago, and I’m in remission, so I’ve done that too. You’ve got plenty of time to visit anywhere you want. :)
Glad to see you again! Happy to hear you mom is in full recovery! Sometimes life works out in odd ways. I never thought I’d live in the Midwest but here I am, and loving it!
So excited that you are back & sharing. Thank you!
So very pleased you are back here! And just thrilled for the new direction you are going…
Been feeling some conviction after watching the documentary The True Cost…
Thank you for being so thoughtful and real. It is inspiring and supporting.
Oh, Caroline! It’s so good to have you back! I’ve missed you so much. Always kept Unfancy on my top bookmarks bar, hoping for a return ;) I’ve had two tragedies happen in the past six months as well…well, tragedies that are very bittersweet and have really changed my life story. Not in a bad way, but just in a very unexpected way. I so respect you and your husband for going with the flow and making the right decision for you guys and for your family, even though it was different from what you had originally envisioned for yourselves. Life is pretty amazing, isn’t it? I’ve loved learning that I’m stronger and more adaptable than I ever thought. I’m so glad that you and Aaron and your parents are all doing well. AND I’m so excited to hear that you’re expanding the content on Unfancy! I’m excited to learn more about you and your life and your style and your perspective beyond the capsule wardrobe. Welcome back, girl. Oh, and can I request a house tour when it’s time?! Can’t wait to see your handiwork… ;) <3
YAYYYY you’re back! Best news/blog/Friday ever! So happy things are looking up for you, too :)
I’m so glad you’re back!!! Welcome!
I feel like I should be tucked in with a steaming cup of chai latte as I read this. It feels like home. :)
Excited for all of the new things unfancy has to offer. I really cannot wait.
Thank you for sharing your journey with us…I am deeply touched by the ways you are including the "whole" of you on this site! I think many of us are a combination of seemingly disparate pieces. Thank you for inspiring us to have the same capacity to hold the tension. Bravo.
–Brie stoner
So glad to have you writing again, you have such beautiful insights! Would you consider blogging about how you take your minimalist or intentional approach in how you style your home? I’d love to see how you’ve applied your style beyond your wardrobe. X
So happy to have you back!!!! Everything happens for a reason. It may not be what we expect, but it’s for the best! I’m so happy to hear your mom beat cancer and is growing stronger every day!!!! Love the new website and I look forward to your posts :)
Welcome back! Your story really moved me. I lost my mom to cancer 3.5 years ago. It puts everything in to perspective. I’m glad to hear your mom is on the mend. I hope she continues to get stronger.
Hi, welcome back!!!
I dont remember when I started to follow your blog, but since the first time I did it became one of my favorites. You have a realistic and yet inspiring style. I’m so happy you are back and your mom is fine (I also follow you on IG)
Can’t wait for more posts about real yet inspiring life (also clothes eh)
Your friend form Costa Rica
Susana.
At the end of 2013, you totally flipped my thoughts upside down and I haven’t looked back! I’m not sure I could ever quite commit to full-on capsule, but I made some major changes that worked well for my life. Spending all of that time/money shopping for things I did not love or need was NOT making me happy. Happiness is enjoying time with my family while keeping my budget in check. I would mimic your outfits with pieces I already had in my wardrobe, feeling accomplished in not just running out and buying something and looking super fly. A big big THANK YOU for sharing with us.
(shooting extra wellness vibes to your mom over these interwebs!!)
Welcome back Caroline! You have been a huge inspiration for me and as a result I started my own blog to capture my journey and just recently I have been blogging more about ethical fashion (www.truncationblog.com). I really resonate with what you wrote above because my mom also was diagnosed with breast cancer when I was in high school. It’s so beautiful that you were able to be such a support for your mom, I regret my lack of support as a self absorbed seventeen year old. Thankfully my mom pulled through as yours is, but it has made me cherish life and health 100 times more than I would have otherwise.
First time commenter to say: so glad you’ve returned! And glad your mom has found healing. I lived in Abilene for 10 years for college, grad school, and some work at the NCCIL and ACU — it is a place with some VERY special people!
I found your blog right around the time of the hiatus, led here by my inner conflict over needing my clothes to be affordable and beginning to see that the cost might be transferred to the women who make my clothes in poor countries. Tight spot. (So far, for me, thrifting is the answer.) I loved the concreteness of your capsules for inspiration. The new direction sounds beneficial too, so thanks for letting me be a fly on your new wall. :)
So sorry to hear about your mom, but happier that she’s in full recover. Great that you were able to go back to her, and had your husband’s unwavering support.
As for the capsule wardrobe, I found this site just before the new year. I tried my own approach – not counting pieces but aspiring toward a "smaller closet, intentional purchases, less shopping, and more joy." It’s been great so far. I’m excited that you’re "back" and can’t wait to read more :-) Thank you!
HEE HEE!!! I’m giddy with excitement! So wonderful to see you back and see your beautiful face friend.
I sure have missed your blog! I had been following fashion blogs for years, but yours was so different and really what I needed. I was feeling a lot of discontent even though I have a wonderful life, and your blog was one of the first of many to start me on a path of more simplicity and minimalism. Thinking about my clothes and wishing I had more and better took so much energy, so to simplify my wardrobe was the perfect first step. I still wouldn’t call myself a minimalist necessarily, but I have gotten rid of a lot and learned to find contentment in what I do have. So excited to follow along again as you share more of your journey, you are so inspiring to me!
So glad you are back :) Life is tricky sometimes. Glad you have found joy in unlikely places!
Caroline, I’m so happy to hear that your mom is in full recovery and that you are settled into your new home. Thank you for sharing your story with us! You continue to be an inspiration – fashion-wise and life-wise. :) Laura
I love that you’re back! I am so sorry about your mom but so so happy she is doing well now! PS I read your blog live for two or three seasons and loved your outfits/style/capsule idea, but did not actually do a capsule in any sense but literally last weekend i read through old posts and pulled up the whole, empty your closet and divide into four piles, and created a capsule that fits my lifestyle! This led me to pairing down many parts of our house and loving it. Excited to see new posts from you about different things! :)
Wow… Phew… What a story! I found un-fancy when you were already on hiatus so I just scrolled around reading about the capsule wardrobe. I still haven’t created a capsule, but I’m shopping consciously and I’m cleaning out my closet, reflecting on what items are my style and so on.. So I’m very happy to see tou back here, and I’m sure I will love this "new" too! Welcome back :) /Sara
Welcome home Caroline!!
I’ve just read some of the other comments and I echo so many of their words – Un-Fancy has been so cherished in my life. I swear I recommend or send a link at least once a day because I’ve always found your content kind, hopeful, and fresh, even though I found you months after you stopped posting. Your perspective rings true no matter the season. Thank you for who you are and what you do – it has absolutely affected my life in a truly energizing and load lightening way. I feel so proud for you and the journey you’ve been on, and what neat community you have drawn here – look at all these comments! People are so rooting for and grateful for what you’ve done and continue to do. The future is bright, Caroline Joy! Thank you & big, fat love from Alberta, Canada!
Welcome back. I’m so glad to hear that you are all happy and well. That’s what really counts!
First time ever commenting! Hello Caroline, nice to meet you (I discovered your blog during your hiatus)! I,m from a boring town that I wouldn’t change for another either in Spain. First of all I’m so glad that your mother is better, I love your post and I look forward to accompany you in this new stage of your life, to see your growth and try and grow along with you. Best wishes! See you soon
Inma
So glad to see that you’re back! My mum too went through breast cancer in 2010, it’s very unsettling seeing a loved one in pain and not being able to do anything. But now cancer is like a bad dream that we all woke up from. That’s how it’ll remain. Kick cancer in the butt and keep living. My best wishes and prayers to you, your mum and your family!
Ps. I am a little bummed about no seasonal capsule, I’ve been living with my capsule (38 items) for about 2 years. But I am looking forward to the new direction the blog is going. I’ve been reading posts over again even when you weren’t posting. It was great for little pick me ups when I felt that my closet wasn’t enough. Am genuinely glad that you’re back. Maybe home posts, decoration ideas etc. Whatever you do am right behind you!
Blessings from the UK!
Laura R
Hi Caroline, Life does throw curves but being with your Mom at this time was the right decision. So glad she is on the mend.
I just found your blog and immediately I declared ” Finally, someone who creates a more casual and day-to-day realistic capsule wardrobe with clothes I would want to wear and actually shows exactly what the outfits look like on a human. Brilliant!” I have learned more about how to put together a working wardrobe in one day than in the past two years of trying to make this really work for me. This is the best blog ever and so much help. I can’t tell you how many times I have looked at capsule wardrobes on Pinterest wondering what the heck all the outfits would look like on a person. No one shows the capsules on a human and no one does a capsule that isn’t a third dressy or work oriented. No one but You.
You also take the time to take close ups of the details that count and several views of each outfit. And, you show how to move to the next capsule and what pieces come and go. I’m also learning the clothing lines that give this look, which again, is a brilliant mix of organic and edgy but seems so cohesive. I cannot tell you how sad I am that I just found you and that you are going in a different direction. For the fashion challenged, like me, I will be forever stuck in 2014-15 unless you show me how to mix in some newer things next season and show me how they mix together,haha.
I’m new here, and I see a lot of appreciation for you and what you bring. I know it is your work and you can move in whatever direction you fancy, but for me, a newbie, I sincerely wish you would reconsider continuing capsules with new additions and updates and especially those pictures of how to mix and match…they are so great! Unfancy is unique and such a help. Well, I will quit begging and continue to pour over your 2014-15 posts. They are truly amazing. Thank you so much for taking your time to put this together, it is much appreciated!
Pamela Jo
I’ve never been so happy to see someone upload a post, welcome back! It makes me so happy to hear your mum is better, you seem to have quite the journey and I’m glad it appears to have ended in a happy way! I cannot wait to follow you on more of your journey now, you seem to have some great ideas for the new blog space and I absolutely love the update! I look forward to checking in with you and I wish you all the happiness! To Un-Fancy!
http://www.elzbthchlmrspps.blogspot.co.uk
Hi Caroline! Im so glad you’re back. Im one of those who found your amazing blog after you stopped blogging so I’m excited for this sequel :) And I feel this blog is going to be awesome because you are being plain honest about what you want to do with it. Im totally with you the principles behind the capsule are what matter and they can easily lead us to a more intencional joyful life! Im so happy you were able to be there for your loved ones and to find peace and contentment even in the hard places you’ve been. For me that is exactly what life is and I will very much enjoy reading through your new journey!
Stay un-fancy :)
Francisca
OH ME OH MY YOU ARE BACK!!! I have waited for this day for months!! (dont judge, but i counted down the 6 months till you were back…). I am glad to see you back and ready to go, but even more happy your family is happy and healthy. As a few others have said, your blog was DIFFERENT than all other fashion blogs. You have changed how I purchase my clothes… I love the idea of an intentional closet. I was never able to stick to the 37 pieces, however, I bought fewer things I absolutely loved, and less junk. I love it. I hope you stick somewhat to outfit posts, but I am sure I will support whichever direction you choose!
SO BEYOND HAPPY your back!
ps congrats on your house :)
I am so glad to see you blogging again. I didn’t find your blog until after you had stopped, so I’m happy to see you back. And I’m even happier to hear that your mom has fought cancer and won. A few years ago, we moved from gorgeous beachside California back to the dull, gray midwest so that I could stay home with the kids. I was glad to be with the kids, but sad about leaving the SoCal adventure. My dad said this: "California will always be there, waiting for you to come back to it. But this time with your family is short." I wouldn’t trade this time with my kids for all the perfect beaches and gorgeous weather in the world. The adventure will be there someday when you’re ready to go back to it, but I’m glad you’re happy about settling in to spend this time with your family.
Love love love! I’m so happy for your mom and for you and so happy you’re back! I’ve missed checking this favorite little corner of the web <3
I’m so glad you’re back and LOVE the truth shared in this post. I’m also excited about this next vision for Unfancy and can’t wait to read more. And SO happy for your mom and PROUD of you and Aaron for choosing what matters most even when it totally changed your plans.
I’m so glad that you are back as you were/are one of my favourite bloggers! Sorry to hear about what you have been going through (I know from experience that it can be tough) but really happy that your mum is in recovery.
I am just starting my own little life journey which has me excited. The past few months have been full of worry and stress as I have come to realise that the career path I had planned out is maybe not what I want to do any more. I am past half way through my university course with no idea what the future holds and no idea what career I want but I have decided to just let it all go and see where life takes me. I trust that a door will open and that I will figure out what my passion is in life.
Can’t wait to read your future blog posts!
This is soooo inspiring and I’ve read it just in the moment I needed to read it. Thank you, for the truth and simplicity of your writing, for living through things and for sharing about them here.
Hugs from France!
The blog is looking SLEEK. Excited to see it back, and have a peek into your ongoing journey!
I’m SO happy you’re back.
Welcome back! I am so happy to hear about your mom’s recovery and the path that led you guys back home. What a lovely new beginning.
So excited you’re back, Caroline!!! I think God often looks at our plans for our lives and He smiles and shakes his head. In a kind "child, you’re life isn’t going to look like that but it’s sweet you think it’s going to" way. I never saw my husband and I being where we are now, but I also could have never predicted the wonderful friendships we’ve developed here either. God’s plan always takes us in unexpected but amazing directions. So glad your mom is doing well & I look forward to reading what you have to share.
Caroline, I’m so happy to see your return to writing and so glad that your mom is doing well. I can’t wait to read along with Unfancy again, and thanks for letting us in on the journey! Sending you the best from Denton, Texas!
Glad you’re back! :)
Excited to learn more about slow fashion!
As several people have already noted, I too stumbled upon Un-Fancy after you had already begun your hiatus. I then began following you on Instagram and when I saw that you were coming back it MADE MY DAY…actually if I’m honest, it made my week! You’re message has encouraged a thoughtfulness in my wardrobe that has trickled into every area of my material possessions. THANK YOU. I think you said it perfectly–‘I also love the peace that comes with deciding I have enough.’ Can’t wait to see what’s in store for Un-Fancy as you continue the journey.
Hi Caroline! It is amazing to have you back! You and your blog have had a tremendous impact on the way I view my wardrobe and go shoppIng! Although I’m still on a ‘capsule diet’ (not quite there with the habit yet) I am at a point where I really love everything I have to wear now sooo much that it’s like I’m on autopilot…I just grab a top and bottom, accessories and any shoe and I’m ready and looking cuuuute with MINIMAL effort!! Nearly everyday, the Hubs and my girls compliment my look and I respond with, ‘you know…capsule.’
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What a journey your whole family has been on! So glad to read everyone is happy and well. Looking forward to reading more about your adventures. Sending electronic hugs from Australia :)
Glad you’re back! I too, had a similiar experience, the move to New Mexico and my dream house didn’t work out. But I am back home in Ohio with family and friends (helping my bf with her cancer treatments) I have a new appreciation for my boring hometown and feel blessed with every day.
I am so happy that your Mom is doing so well! Yay!
So happy you’re back. I enjoyed this post, and grateful for what you’ve shared. Looking forward to more :) As for myself, I’ve been becoming more "me" and finally starting to find my personal wardrobe that feels great. Here’s to being content with what we have :) <3
Welcome "home!" We’ve missed you.
Glad to see you back here in this space! More importantly, glad you’re Mom is doing well. Looking forward to your upcoming posts!
This post really moved me. I had a similar experience this year – exciting plans, expecting life to look one way and then it looking very very different. I’m slowly on the path of realizing that’s ok. I loved reading about your minimalist wardrobe because that’s where I was in my life at the time, but now I’m moving on to bigger questions and it seems you are as well. I’m excited to hear more about your life and your path forward.
Welcome back! I’m glad your mom is doing well, of course. But I’m super glad to hear of her new excitement for life. My life post-cancer has been far more interesting and REAL. Don’t be surprised if she takes you ziplining. Although I’m more of your moms’s generation, I enjoy your blog and am looking forward to hearing about slow fashion.
Welcome back! I’m so happy to hear that your mother is doing well and hope for continued recovery for her. Your mother is so lucky to have had you there to help her through chemo. I’m excited you’re back and look forward to reading your posts!
I saw the email about this post and was so excited! I’m so sorry to hear about your mum and I’m really glad she’s doing better!
I’m so glad to see that you are feeling the same about the capsule that I am! After a year and a half I don’t feel like I need the structure anymore and I very rarely find myself buying clothes or wanting to!
Can’t wait for the next post! Welcome back!
Hi Caroline!
It must take you hours to read all these comments :) As everyone, I am glad you are back, I’ve missed your positivity and insights. I’ve been refreshing your blog since February 1 and then on Instagram saying you’d be posting later this week and my first reaction was WHEN IS LATER GIRL!? Hehe :) I do hope you share a few photos of your new house, I bet everyone would love to see your style project to interiors.
I’m doing what you’re doing now and letting the capsules become more of a lifestyle. Even if I do buy something I’m trying to be very intentional about it – something Jess Lively’s work taught me. Anyways, I love the outfits tab with all the little photos, though perhaps I preferred the design of the older site more. Never mind, the important thing is that you’re back and that your mum is a superstar.
xo Kat
So glad you are back. Your blog is my very favorite. More importantly so thankful your mom is well and you’ve been able to be with her.
so happy your mom is doing well :) I truly look forward to your upcoming shares and thank you for keeping it real and heartfelt! xo
Nice to hear from you again! Oh so happy that your mum is doing well. Looking forward to catch your blog again… till next post take care xx
Michelle (Bondi, Australi)
Welcome back!!! I know I’m with the rest of your readers when I say I’m excited to see where Unfancy goes.
Congratulations to your Mom and entire family on her doing well.
I’d also love to see pictures of your new home. And Steve is adorable!!
Thank you for sharing such an honest, authentic and heart felt post. :) I’m so happy to hear your mom is doing well. It’s so true that sometimes life has other plans for us even after we’ve been busy making plans. I’m looking forward to hearing more about your journey and this transition.
I’ve never done a capsule wardrobe because that seemed to take planning and I wanted to keep things casual. Your posts inspired me to let go of more stuff and be okay with wearing the same few items I love over and over. :) Thank you! Hugs & Blessings to you, your mom and family. :)
Yay! Welcome back to the blogosphere! The world of ethical fashion could certainly use more advocates!! Looking forward to seeing your future posts!
Welcome back from a reader in Wichita Falls, Texas- just a skip north
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f0 Glad you’re back! My own mother battled breast cancer in the last year and I feel your confusion and multitude of emotions. So glad I am able to seek inspiration from your uncluttered life again
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Welcome home!
You have such a beautiful spirit and I find so much encouragement in your honest thoughts shared. I am thrilled to see Un-fancy back in action! While you were away, I found myself coming back here once in a while just secretly hoping you’d surprise us all…and though the circumstances are bittersweet, I’m happy to see you here again.
I wish your mom continued strength and recovery and that you and Aaron enjoy these wonderful days of settling into your own space and place (as it certainly seems like you are!).
I very much look forward to the days and posts ahead! Thank you for sharing yourself with all of us like you do.
Warmly,
Meg
YAY ! Welcome Back from Brisbane, Australia ! Our weather is a bit busy here in Australia but you inspired me to start my own type of capsule wardrobe. Because Our weather doesn’t change nearly as much I have 52 items a year and am slowly swapping them out for only ethically made items. It’s a slow process but it is so worth it. Thank you for encouraging simple and content life through your story!
I’m so glad I happened to stumble upon your bog again, just now you decided to return to the blogosphere! I only discovered it a few months ago, while you were taking a blogging break (which I was really bummed about, btw :D). I want to thank you for sharing your story. In a world were everyone wants others to believe that they lead a picture perfect life, it touches me to see that there are still people out there who are brave enough to talk about the bumps in the road, the pain and the struggle that are part of life. I also love the fact that even though the place you live may not seem as ‘fancy’ or ‘adventurous’ to some, you are unapologetic about it and obviously love it. You already inspired me so much with this one post of your, I just can’t wait for more to come!
Welcome back! I am sorry to hear about your mom’s struggle with breast cancer, but I am so glad that she is doing okay. Your blog has inspired me to create my own capsule wardrobe – specifically for academics (I am a PhD student at UT Austin) and encouraged me to think more about what kind of simple life I want. I am getting ready to move across the country to Pittsburgh and your blog has helped me simplify my life. I really appreciate you sharing!
Welcome back! Clearly many of us are happy to see your blog posts again. :) My mother is also a breast cancer survivor, so I have some idea of what you went through. Sending positive energy to you and your family, and I can’t wait to hear more about how your life is going. <3
I’m excited you are posting again! I feel like I can relate so much to pieces of your story. My husband and I live in Amarillo, TX. Since getting married 5 years ago, we have always planned on moving away–even if for just a season. It seems like every season Amarillo gives us a new reason to stay…family we crave being around, new jobs we are so in love with, a new house we stumbled upon.
We are finally content with the idea that we may be here forever. We always say that if we lived somewhere cool, we would have to spend all of our time off/money on traveling back to Amarillo. Living in Amarillo, we are able to travel 10x more than we would otherwise. The bright side :).
Thanks your sharing your story. So glad your mom is recovering! I look forward to the new perspective of your posts!
Welcome back! As many others here I am so glad you’re back!
I am sorry for what your family had to go through, but SO happy that it went well. I cannot wait for more of your blogs, I’ve been stalking your Instagram (in a non-creepy way) to see when you’ll upload again! Thanks for letting us have such a massive ‘glimpse’ into your life, I appreciate it.
How have I been? Well, I finally had enough courage to start a Youtube-Channel and just HAD to mention you in one of my videos :)
So glad you are back! We missed you! It’s awesome to hear about your journey and your spirit as life has thrown you curveballs. In addition to your personal style, will you be sharing anything about your home style? I’m so interested in applying this same mindset to the home. Would love to see more of what you have done with your space.
So nice to see you back. Of course you have changed and I think realised that health is the most important thing in this life, but isn`t it amazing that you are able to think
about frivilous things again? So happy for yourMum.
I love home interiors so looking forward to seeing pics pf your lovely wee house.
I bought the Jcrew tshirt after seeing it on unfancy and just now it is up the loft as I live in Scotland and it is all cashmere jumpers and faux fur for me at the moment. I am really quite at a loss as what to wear come Spring and Summer as I have cut most of the colour from my wardrobe and am wearing grey black denim and white at the moment. I suit cerise pink but am shying away from it somehow. Any ideas? I have grey shoulder length curly hair.
I’m glad your back:* I love your way of being. I would love to see how you decorated your living spaces(in Seatle, and this new house of yours). How can it be minimal and cosy at the same time? With minimal to non invests.
Cannot tell you how happy I am that you’re back! Your site has been a lifeline this past year, so to have new life injected back into it is so exciting! This post spoke to me in so many ways- things that are better for us than we expect can be a real growing experience. What wonderful news about your mom. Hallelujah! Welcome back!
I saw your recent Instagram post and it made my day – a day I’ve been looking forward to since your last Unfancy post. I’m glad to hear you and your family are doing well. What fantastic news about your mom! Thank you for keeping us updated. I can’t wait to see what you have in store for us. Welcome back from SF, California!
I bet I’m not the only one who’ll be checking your blog first thing in the morning ^_^
I just started following your blog after hearing your interview on The Lively Show over the holidays. You have the most amazing spirit, and I love that you can communicate that spirit so well through your blog (AND that you are continuing to do so!!) Thank you for sharing your thoughts, as well as your wonderful sense of style :) And congratulations on finding the happy place that you are in at this moment; it can definitely be very hard to see the forest through the trees when it seems that chaos and uncertainty are at all sides. I look forward to witnessing your voice and spirit through this blog as you continue on your journey! And the new format for the blog is awesome; very intuitive and easy to navigate!
I’m so excited that you’re back! And so happy your mom is doing so much better. I can’t wait to see more photos of your house! I’m redecorating now, too.
I found out you’re back because I came to your blog looking for the checklist of pieces, but a lot of the links in the old blog posts aren’t working. Can you point me to that list? It describes the number of basics, statement pieces, etc. And If you’d like me to send you the broken links I’m happy to do that.
Welcome back! So happy to see you! And SO happy about the good news about your mom!! I myself have three loved ones battling cancer currently and hearing other peoples good news is always so wonderful. I am so excited to start following along with you again on this blog! I would LOVE to also hear stories of your new house and the adventure of fixing it all up! Do you think that is something you will be sharing?
So happy you are back! Life does take us on interesting turns and winding roads…
I am glad to hear your mom is doing well and the updated version of the blog sounds great. Your capsules have inspired how I look at my wardrobe and dress and have encouraged more thought. It sounds like thoughtfulness and fashion and fun are to follow and I am down with that! You have such wonderful style and I am looking forward to what is coming next.
Congrats on the new house!!
I’m so happy to see that you are back. What an incredible journey you have been on. I look forward to what’s next, and I’m delighted to hear that your mother is healing
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SO glad you are back! I’ve missed your blog enormously. I came to depend on your great ideas for my seasonal shopping :) Glad your mom is doing better & that you guys have found a new rhythm that works for your fam. I’ve often wrestled with a desire for adventure vs. a desire to be near the ones I love. Your words were really encouraging for me to keep a sense of the present–& what deeper plan is at work.
One technical note: This post hasn’t shown up in my feedly yet–something might be off with that connection? Not sure if its fixable on your end or theirs?
What a journey! I’m very pleased to see you back online. Your blog brings a bit of fresh air into my life. :)
It’s so good to have you back, Caroline! I was checking this blog weekly, just in case you decided to update from Seattle. I’m also going through some health/cancer scares in my family, and I really admire your decision to be close to your mom. I’m excited to see where Unfancy goes because I feel kindrid in spirit. Best wishes to your mom, and you, and the new house!
I happened on your blog while I was strolling through Pinterest. I was looking at wardrobes. I am kind of rebuilding mine. I have been raising kids since I was 18 and never focused on my wardrobe because I was taking care of them. They are all grown now and I am taking care of me. I was so caught by your story, I kept reading. I am so glad your mom is doing better. I feel a kind of kinship to you. I live just down the road from you and actually stayed a couple of nights in Abilene about 6 weeks ago. Things don’t go the way we plan, but we do end up where we need to be, don’t we. Saying prayers for your mom’s continued health. God Bless!
I discovered your blog only a few weeks ago, but I was immediately hooked. I read all your posts and I was disappointed to see you abandoned the blog, so I’m glad you’ve decided to come back! You’ve definitely inspired me, not so much fashion-wise (my style is very different) but more life-wise. I can definitely relate to your longing for adventure and I think it’s admirable that you chose to move back to your home town to be with your family. I guess it’s similar to capsule wardrobes: it’s not always easy to be content with what you have (either your wardrobe or your small-town life), but learning to be content will bring so much happiness into your life.
I’m looking forward to see what you’ll bring to the new Un-Fancy!
Thank you so much for your update and so happy that your mom is doing better! Cancer really sucks, my boyfriend and I had a similar situation with my dad. After we found out that it was a pretty rear cancer we both moved in for about two years. My Dad will never be cancer free but is doing a lot better. We thought it would probably be a good time to buy a home so that we could really start our lives in so we bought a house in October and we are literally five minutes away from my Dad. Going through something like cancer makes you really you realize what is important in life and what you are going to make a priority. Happy that you and your family are in a good place. Hugs!
happy your back and even more over joyed for your mother!
we went through a similar story this year. we were nomads and moved about 7 times and only had what would fit in our car. it was exciting and fun, and now it’s over. as much as I miss our life last year, there’s something to be said about having a "home." ours is a little boring too, but it’s more about who your with than where your at right?!
thanks for all your words and looking forward to this new idea for the blog. it’ll encourage me to stop consuming so much. :)
You’re back! You’re back! You’re back!
I had nearly given up hope. I had checked back every few days or so for months, wondering if/when a new post would appear. I’m SO glad you’re back!
Thank you for sharing your difficult, crazy, awesome, daring journey over the last 8 months with us. Family is and always is the most important. Everything works out the way it should!
I’m so happy to hear from you again! These past months seem like they were transformative for you, and I’m so happy that you’re peaceful with life.
nolongergrey.com
So glad you are back!!! I’ve been so inspired by you and Un-Fancy that I decided to start my own blog gracefulmiddleaging.com! I don’t have many readers, but I sure have fun with it, and that’s the point! I’ve been on a continuous mission to purge my closet, but I keep re-filling it because I am a re-sale employee! Any tips for those of us who are faced with beautiful merchandise and rock bottom prices everyday? I’ve also tried to educate myself on fast fashion vs slow fashion and have made purchases from fully transparent companies such as EVERLANE, but that darn Madewell remains a weakness! I’ve tried to boycott them, but they keep pulling me back in! So glad to hear your mother is on the mend. My mother was diagnosed in Sept. with stage 4 metastatic stomache cancer and because of her age and emaciated state, she decided against chemo and is trying homeopathic meds, so I understand the ups and downs of having a parent who is ill. Again, so glad you are back!
Welcome back! You’ve been missed dearly. But the best news is hearing your mom is in full recovery. I would love to see some posts on your interior decor style. I’ve really been enjoying the IG pics and following your home reno. Maybe with links on how to purchase or create similar pieces?
I am so happy to hear that your mom is okay. you guys have been on my mind since your first post on instagram that she wasn’t well. I have dealt with breast cancer all to much and it kind of feels like betrayal. She is so lucky that you came to her and you are so lucky that it turned out to be the right thing for you guys too. There is a certain peace in your writing that wasn’t there before. softness. I am happy for you Caroline and happy for your whole family. can’t wait to see where un-fancy goes. excited to hear about the new smaller brands you will introduce. Cheers, @SweetAntique
I am so glad you are back and that your mother is getting better! The direction ‘un-fancy’ blog is heading is exciting…I can’t wait to see your future posts.
girl C
http://www.fromgirlc.wordpress.com
So glad to hear that your mom is on the road to recovery. My mom is a breast cancer survivor too.
And the new site is fabulous.
So glad to see you back here. :)
How amazing, scary and empowering! Your adventure sounds like it was a true life experience. Nothing ever goes as planned, and I think that is the only thing we can truly plan on. Glad to here your mom is growing stronger each day! Also, I would love to see pics of your renovation-what a project to undertake!
I, for one, am very glad you are back! I discovered your blog a few months ago, while you were on hiatus, and found myself wishing for updates. I was inspired to, if not go "full capsule," significantly pare down my wardrobe and search for similar pieces to the ones you have in your capsules that you seem to wear the most. I swear, I’ve gotten more compliments on my outfits in the past month (on far fewer wardrobe pieces) than I have gotten in years!
I am glad for you and your family that your mother is recovering. A family tragedy 4 years ago has kept me and my family close to home, so I can relate. It is hard, and no, it doesn’t seem very exciting, but you will never regret spending this time with your loved ones.
P.S. If you’re ever ready to part with that blue Zara faux wrap skirt, I know somebody who would love to buy it from you… (spoiler alert: it’s me).
So glad that you are back! Thank you for sharing, I was wondering how things were going and how you were coping back home and of course, how your momma was doing too. So happy to hear the news and so glad to read this post. And even more excited about how your blog will evolve. And grow :) xo
I am SO SO glad you’re back! You are the most genuine blogger out there. So many other blogs portray this perfect beautiful world. But you lay it all out there. Your words have touched my life in so many ways they always center me and remind me what I want to be like. Peaceful and positive. I wish I could meet you some day! I bet we’d be friends if we ever crossed paths! xoxo
I was treated for breast cancer in 2004 (in fact the cancer had spread to lymph nodes) – and am fine, almost 12 year later. Please pass all my best wishes to your mom.
Alice
Yeah great time! Cool that you are back again :)
I lost my dad last year because of cancer, so be proud to share the time with your parents!
Mina
Hi Caroline,
Welcome back! I’m not sure if you have just chosen not to be included in feedly, or if you just haven’t updated things with them yet, but just wanted to let you know it doesn’t show your latest post.
Looking forward to reading,
Jennifer
Hey! It feels good to visit this website again and see a new post. I’m looking forward to your stories and ideas on life. It made me smile reading about you being happy even though your plan to become a nomad didn’t exactly turn out like you thought it would. My boyfriend (fiancé actually) and I gave ourselves two years to decide what we want to do and where we want to go. We’re nearing the one-year mark and it is starting to look more like we’ll decide to stay where we are now and get energy from other things like having family close by and being able to do all kinds of daily things easily (working out, grocery shopping). I’m starting to really believe in the idea that it doesn’t matter where your home is as long you can call it a home. And maybe, one day, we’ll pack up and leave, but for now I’m good. As are you, which is nice :)
I found your blog JUST as you were going on hiatus and so I was excited to see a new post this morning! I was drawn to your blog – because whether you knew it or not – you were teaching me way about more than clothes! (Though I was grateful for that too!) I’m excited to see how your writing continues to develop in this new section of your story!
Glad to see you back!
So happy for you that you are able to be there for your mother. I wish I had been able to do more for my own mother. Life is what it is. Fashion is fun, but it’s people that make the life experience truly rich. Live without regret. Your pictures are beautiful Caroline as is your honesty and your writing. I look forward to it. Keep it up.
http://www.mrsfranzos.blogspot.com
Hi again Caroline! I’m so glad to see you back and taking a new direction :) Did you go back to your old layout? I love both to tell you the truth. Clean layouts = perf. I’m excited to see what you will talk about next and look forward to seeing your positive words!
Sincerely, Tania
I’m rarely a commenter on blogs. I’m a homeschooling mom of 5 and my time online is pretty limited. But I couldn’t resist adding my voice to the chorus. When I saw your IG post my heart was literally palpitating out of my chest!! Your blog is simple, clean, inspiring, and REAL LIFE. You have a unique space here and it is obvious that people are drawn to your authenticity. I don’t think I will ever have the time or mental space to do a capsule wardrobe but your theory has inspired me to be content and only leave hanging what I love or will wear for the season. I love to thrift shop and often buy things b/c they are cheap. I’m still a total work in progress but I wanted to thank you for what you have stood for. I look forward to what’s ahead on your site!!!
I love serendipity. This is the first time I have ever read your blog and it touched me so much. Weepy.
I too swore to never live in my home state/town again. Left at 17 and was never going to look back. Only, at 40, the universe was screaming at me to move home, and I finally had to listen. Now, I get to see my parents weekly, started a small woodworking company with my dad, get to spend time with my kids, got to be there for my sister through divorce and surgeries, go boating in the summer and skiing in the winter. It’s small and sometimes limiting, but it’s home. And it’s grand:)
Best wishes in your new journey right where you are.
I’m so glad your back dear!!! xoxoxo
Welcome back! I’m somewhat new to Unfancy- but it’s already been transformative. I’m so happy to hear that your mom is doing well. Cancer is some scary shit- especially when it goes after a parent. Looking forward to updates and the new concept!
xx
Your blog is so inspiring! I’m glad you’ve come back to shar your journey with us :)
I’m so glad you’re back + happy to hear about your mom’s recovery! Sounds like you had a lot of things going on while the blog was down… Great comeback, I’m definitely looking forward to reading more of it (although I will also kind of miss the capsule posts ;) ).
Welcome back! A beautiful post! I never make comments on blogs but I felt compelled to on your post after hearing your story. I too have had a parent who was diagnosed with cancer and ultimately changed and shaped my life and my perspective on life for the better.
“We must be willing to let go of the life we planned, so as to have the life that is waiting for us.”
Look forward to reading more about your new journey, ideas and concepts.
Best,
Katie
Same here! It’s nice to know other people have these same feelings, and I’m working on accepting myself and a new, simpler, more realistic vision of my life.
I had to comment once I saw you were from Abilene. Finding fellow West Texans makes my heart so happy! I was raised in Sweetwater but “escaped” to Tulsa, Oklahoma. I’m glad you’ve found a way to embrace the place you once tried to escape and I hope your contentment there continues. Also so great to hear your mother is in full recovery. I look forward to reading along as you build your life in a small town!
Hooray! So glad you’re back to blogging-I missed Un Fancy. I recently moved back to my hometown as well after 15 years and it’s an interesting combination of feelings – so I encourage you to do some blog posts on that topic!
Encantada de tu regreso, es como el regreso de una vieja amiga. Emocionada por ver tus nuevas fotos inspiradoras. Esperaba con ganas tu regreso. Un saludo desde España.
PD: siento no escribir en inglés pero aún no se hacerlo muy bien y no me fio de el traductor automático?
For whatever reason this just popped up today in my feed! Well, welcome back! And WHOA indeed!
First of all I am glad to hear your mom is doing fine and fully recovered! I was so excited for you to be living as nomads but you know what, life is about timing. And now wasn´t the timing for you guys. You found that little fixer-upper and made it home for now. Who knows, maybe you´ll sublet it soon and be on the road….. No one knows!
I am happy you are back to blogging and tell us more about your daily shenanigans. I liked the capsule posts – I think you really started a thing there – but I am actually much more interested in the behind-the-scenes. Creepy, I know ;)
Have a lovely day xo
I came across your blog just before you left to go nomadic. Life is never how you plan. Glad your mother is well and you feel settled. My story is much the same. Living in Australia going to move to New Zealand and my Dad has cancer. So here I am typing in a windy and wet north of Scotland. We pick up our new house keys today. It is hard to let go of dreams but my family is real xox Good luck to you and I am excited to follow your journey.
I’m so happy you are back and that your mother is recovering :)
I’m incredibly happy you’re writing here again! Thank you for all your thoughts and insight. I’m sending some energy your way for your mom!
Happy, happy, happy :)
Welcome back :-) Good luck, kisses from Poland!!!
so so happy to see you back♥♥♥ I hope you are going to write very often :-)
Big hug
Love
Maria from Poland :-)
I am just so happy you’re back! I love your content and was always checking the blog to see old stuff and if there were an update… Glad to hear your mom’s doing well, also. Wish you and her all the best. :)
Loved this post. Thank you for sharing. Choosing to put down roots and be committed to a place is often scarier than going after the exciting adventure. I look forward to future posts – especially about slow fashion. And who knows what the future holds for you! Those “that didn’t turn out the way I envisioned” moments are the surprises that we get to look forward to.
Thank you for sharing such personal story!
Love,
http://www.thestyleventure.com
Welcome back! And congrats on the home! Abilene is certainly a town full of very sweet people. You’re lucky!
Hi,
I am SO HAPPY you are back and am looking forward to more posts from you soon! Also, the blog is showing up on my feedly page now so thank you if the fix was on your end.
Happy Friday!
Kelly
This is so heart shattering, but I am glad you found the light at the end of the tunnel. Thanks for sharing, love what I saw of your home, btw.
http://dressmecasual.blogspot.com.eg/
This post really hist home for me. My grandmother just passed away last week from a year long battle with cancer in Abilene. And Abilene reminds me a great deal of the city I decided to put down roots (Lincoln, NE) because, even though part of me wants to be a nomad, I also love being by family.
Anyway, thanks for sharing!
Hi
so great to hear from you again. Your story (and wardrobe) has inspired me to search for an alternative way of living and consuming. Wish you all the best, and health and peace to your mum.
I found your blog right after you’d gone on your break. I’m glad that you’re back, and more that you and your husband have found Home. And especially, especially glad that your mother is doing well!
I look forward to seeing whatever it is you write here :)
Welcome back!!! Okay, now I’ll actually read the post…
Welcome back! I’m so happy to hear your mom is on the mend. Keeping you, her, and your entire family in my thoughts!!
Welcome Back! Looking forward to reading about your new adventures.
I am so sad to hear about your mother and so happy to hear about her path towards recovery. I know exactly those emotions you talk about because my mom was diagnosed with cancer last week and I spent all this time arguing within myself about whether to be strong or scared, positive or admit how much it sucked. It’s so true, life requires both black, white and a lot of gray in between.
I’m so excited to see your blog back up! I’ve actually been working on my own and was SUPER inspired by your blog, I went crazy on the whole prepping for a capsule wardrobe concept… however the more I continued with the prep, the more I realized how unready I was for the concept.
Especially when life’s hurdles get in the way. I realized I may be better off with the concept of a slow wardrobe like you mention and am very excited to read about and write about.
Luckily my mother’s cancer is “the best kind of cancer to have” (whatever that means), so she will not have to suffer through chemo. Keeping your family in my thoughts and good intentions. Just remember that the best moments are the ones in between. The conversations, the laughter, the arguments… Wishing the very best :)
xo,
Caitlyn
http://www.catonthemoon.xyz
Thanks for sharing, glad your mom and family are well. Excited for the future
So excited that you’ll be delving more into ethical fashion! That’s a topic I feel so passionately about and I’m excited that this platform will help raise awareness for it. Have you seen “The True Cost” on Netflix? So good, check it out if you haven’t! And there are so many great companies like Noonday Collection and Oliberte and Elegantees that are making an amazing impact with their businesses. There’s just so much to explore with this and I am excited to see this movement grow!
Welcome back!!!! I keep your blog link in my favorites and check it every once in a while. I was so surprised to see your post! Thank you for sharing your story- so brave and REAL. I look forward to reading everything to come!
You have been sorely missed! Can’t wait for the next post! On the edge of my seat!
Welcome back! Your post shows the beauty we all sensed behind your wisdom.
Welcome back! I also found your blog while you were taking a break from writing but it kept being a reference. I am super excited for what’s coming up. Glad to hear your mom is doing well :)
Heyyy :)
I’m so happy to see that you are back! I was checking this site occasionally to see are u back yet…So glad your mum and your whole family is fine :)
I’m excited for everything about to come nd cant wait to hear more from u.
Greetings from Germany!
Glad you are back! Such a lovely post. Looking forward to keeping up with your new direction and wishing your mum a full and speedy recovery x
Yay!
I discovered your blog right around the time that my husband and I were about to move from Minneapolis to Seattle with our 2 young kids (last spring). We’ve been here since then and we love it! I lost my dad to cancer this past summer, so your writing about your mom really resonated with me. I’m SO happy to hear she is doing well. Cancer is so scary and hard and watching our parents be so vulnerable is heartbreaking. Anyway, I’m looking forward to following along with your blog again! Take care
Omg, you are back! I absolutely did not expect to see a new entry here. Thats awsome!
I’m just occasionally checking un-fancy because it really inspired me in my minimalism journy over a year ago – and I never forgot about it.
Crazy how live changes so quickly and the next day, everything can be different.
Im looking forward to new posts
Love, Charlotte
Beautiful post. I’m so happy to have your positive voice back in my life. Cheers to your mother, family and new home.
Hi there! I am a new reader of your blog, and I firstly want to say that I absolutely love it and your minimalist lifestyle! After skimming through a couple of your posts, I noticed your watch and fell in love. What kind is it, if you don’t mind me asking? I’d love to be able to get the same one!
This was beautiful, I’m glad things are looking up :) I can’t wait to read more x
You made me smile, shed some tears, feel the pain but also the love. Your writing is pure gold- welcome back!
I loved this post. I’m glad that you let us know what has been up with you. Sending love to you, Aaron and your mom (I’m gonna pray for her tonight and ask for health till the end of her life).
I have been waiting for you for 8 months! I’m so happy you’re back! Wish your mum keeps well :) Kisses from London (UK)
I didn’t get notification of this post. I about jumped out of my skin when today’s post popped into my inbox. Soooo glad to have you back.
Really excited that you’re back and that your mother is healed! I never had the right words to describe how my mom was different after beating breast cancer but you nailed it!
I live in a much smaller and boring town in East Texas, and came here by really unexpected/unplanned turns of events. It gives me hope to see you finding contentment in Abilene!
I’m so glad you were able to follow your heart and do what you needed to go! i’m so excited you are back on Un-Fancy! i might have been stalking your IG to see what were you were up to and saw you were coming back. hooray! I too have been struggling with my mother in-law going thru stage 4 ovarian cancer that spread throughout her entire body. it was an opposite story as she moved close to us. i feel privileged to have been able to take care of her over the past year and help out when she needs it. It is definitely a dark time with your soul shows its true colors.I’m so happy your mom is doing well! what a blessing. i look forward to what you have to share with us and i cant wait to see pictures of your house!! :) Cheers friend!
So happy to see you are back! I can’t wait to start reading you once again. I relate so much with the journey your mom have been through (my sister has too recently recovered from cancer..and she is 33!)
All my love and affection to you and your family
Yay, Caroline! You’re back! I found you after you’d gone on hiatus, then chased everyone posting your stuff, but never new you. Thank you for sharing your journey with us.mfamily is so precious, and time with them is priceless. My dad’s almost 93 and I treasure every phone call, every hug, every laugh, as I know they are limited. Your work has inspired me. As a fashion stylist, I’ve now opened another business called The Essential Closet. The enegy of your work and vision resonate deeply with my work. Thank you and welcome back! You were sorely missed!
So happy to have your voice back in my life! Welcome back! I love your new approach to the “capsule wardrobe.” I too have thinned out my closet and are only buying things I really love. Last year I only purchased 12 new pieces of clothing and so far this year I haven’t bought any clothes. We are trying to save money as we have some expenses coming up this year. Congrats on the house and lots of love and luck to your mom to continue healing!
So excited that you are back!
So happy you are back!!! I love your blog! And I´m happy your mom was able to beat cancer. 3 years ago I went through the same thing with my mom and she´s OK now. Best wishes for you and your family.
I came across your blog pretty late.. Actually after you had stopped writing altogether. And I would reference it often when I started downsizing my closet. We have very similar style! So I am so glad I can read along with your journey this time! Thank you for sharing!
So happy you’re back!
I’m so glad you’re back! Love from Australia
I’m sooo glad your momma is in recovery! What a blessing!!
In case you’re still reading replies: I’m in Houston and found you sometime last fall. I was just in Abilene last week for work! Would have been cool to ‘meet you’… I know you’re just getting back to a settled life but that would be something cool to consider, an Unfancy meets and greet! :)
I’m glad to see you back, and really looking forward to your explorations in slow fashion. I’ve really enjoyed your blog and it’s been part of my ongoing journey towards minimalism, contentment and a more eco-conscious way of life. So I’m really excited about this new direction.
So glad to find you again. I started enjoying Un-Fancy last year right before you were moving. Welcome back! Glad to read that your mom is doing great. Seeing a loved one go through a cancer journey is not fun. (speaking from experience)
I’m so happy for your mom & family!! Also, really glad you’re back – this is one of my favorite blogs. :)
Yay! I’m so glad you’re back. <3 The capsule way of life inspired my closet and my heart. Thank you for sharing!
I’ve been waiting and waiting for your return, and your beautiful journey is so lovely. Welcome back!
So, you need to know that your blog changed my life. I adopted a capsule wardrobe and haven’t looked back. Now, my husband and I are starting our own Mid Century Modern/ whimsical random items resale shop, and I left corporate America for time to freelance write.
Thank you for inspiring so many of us to live in the moment and simplify! I wish you all the best and am so glad you’re back.
So very glad to see you are back! And excited to see how your journey continues. Thank you for choosing to share it with us!
I am so happy to hear from you again. And to hear your mum is doing well.
Welcome Home.
Thank you.
Welcome back! It is such a nice surprise to see you blogging again. I am truly happy that your mom is becoming a much stronger person. Definitely looking forward to what Unfancy has to offer.
I am so happy your posting again, I truly love your blog and it was a great help for me when I moved out of my country to another one and could only bring stuff that fit in a 3 suitcases and 2 carryons!!!
Oh my goodness, you posted this on my birthday! You are my favorite blogger ever, and I’ve been eagerly awaiting to read your work again! I can’t wait to see how you rock Abilene! Lots of love from another small Texas town!
Caroline you are such an authentic, true spirit. Un-fancy was my catalyst to adopt a intentional fashion philosophy. I spent decades collected apparel, mindlessly shopping, consuming for the sake of consumption – but in the name of FASHION. I never considered what vacant space I was attempting to fill with clothes. Shortly before discovering Un-fancy I reached a breaking point. After two pregnancies (in two different seasons) and a decade of shopping my wardrobe swelled to an unmanageable size. It outgrew my storage capacity and getting dressed made me feel anything but joy. Your beautiful and organized website was the tipping point. It took a month but I unloaded 80% of my clothes. The process made me more creative, more present, more equipped to cope with the parts of life over which I have no control (toddlers, for instance). I also started my own blog, Mappcraft.com, which preaches minimalist fashion, but from a different angle. I credit you any chance I can. Thank you, Caroline. My heart is with your family and your brave decision to uproot your dreams to support them. You are wise beyond your years. I am so happy to see you back. xoxo jenn
I just re-read the below post of Natalie’s and it made me think you! I love her blog as well, thought I would leave the link here :)
http://www.heynataliejean.com/2015/06/on-capsules-uniforms-and-20.html
Just want you to know that I think you and your blog are awesome! I found your blog a few months ago because I’m toying with the whole capsule idea. I fell in love with your blog, and I’m so happy you’re back!!! By the way, this post is so beautiful. It brought me to tears.
I’m so glad you’re back, but even more happy to hear your mom is doing well!! I completely admire your flexibility and hope the transition to small town life has been smooth. I live in Austin, but grew up in a dusty, boring town in the panhandle. Sooo though I feel your pain, I’m also a bit jealous of “boring.” I miss it sometimes. :)
Good luck on your new adventure. I look forward to reading more!
I just found your blog, and this post was so beautifully written. I totally get transition and am working on a similar post – trying to explain tough things, but also in the light that life is still good, just a sometimes not perfect, good. you did that so well here. thanks for being honest and real.
Excited to join in on your new journey, it sounds more my speed anyway :)
http://www.katelynryan.com
So happy you’re back Caroline!! We click and visit almost once a week since last April and good you’re back. Really happy :) *happy tears* People change, I change, you change therefore don’t worry about drifting upwards into a different directions. Your previous capsule wardrobe posts lead me into a more meaningful life (I mean now!) and would never want to get back to ‘owning more’. Can’t wait to see what you’ve got in store and go on the journey with you.
Also, blessed for mummy Caroline to have a full recovery. Your time was worth it and either way or anyhow, family do come first :)
Real Life Nerd
http://www.vivienekok.com
God bless you and your family!
Hurrah! I found your blog right after you had put it on hold and was so sad. While I loved getting to peruse the archives, I was bummed to not get to continue on exploring life as you posted. SO GLAD you are back and loved this post on belonging!
glad your mom is doing so well now! i love this post, congratulations on many levels.
xo
I read this post with tears in my eyes,I am happy you’re back! I’m glad your mother is doing well. I look forward to reading more about your journey, xoxo.
Welcome back! I was a new reader right before you left, but I have missed you. So sad to hear your mum got sick, but so wonderful to hear she’s better! And I really understand the feeling of being where you belong, but not where you thought you would be. I always thought I would move back to the big city I am from, but we just bought a house in his little hometown across the country . And I am so happy here!!
But anyway, welcome back! :)
I have been a lurker for far too long, but I had to jump in and say welcome home.
My mom (Caroline) is a breast cancer survivor, praise the Lord, and I am so grateful to hear your mom is recovering, too. And thank God you were able to be there for her, what a blessing.
I am really looking forward to this new chapter of your writing, thank you for sharing your story!
Hi Caroline. Like many others, I just let out a little squeel when I saw you were back posting. Welcome back!
Looking forward to reading what you have to share x
Like many commenters, I found your blog after you went on hiatus and found your posts and resources so helpful as I learned more about capsule wardrobes, intentional shopping, and the concept of “fewer, better”. The structure of capsules never quite resonated with me, but the idea of putting together an intentional wardrobe with a more organic approach really tickles me. I’m also profoundly interested in slow fashion! I suffer pangs of anxiety when I know I’m wearing/buying unethically manufactured clothing so I’ve refrained from shopping for almost half a year now… Hence the new direction you are planning on taking your blog is exciting to me!
While others said glad to see you back, I am probably one of the few who just found out about your blog. Beautiful and inspiring post! Life is full of surprises isn’t it? I’m so glad your mum is recovering well, and I am glad to have found your beautiful blog x
Welcome back, Caroline! I was thrilled when I pulled up your website and found that THERE WERE NEW POSTS! A cheery little thrill. :)
I am SO sorry to hear what you’ve been through. I know it must take a lot out of you to support someone you love through that and at the same time try to look after your own tumultuous emotions. I’m beyond happy that you’ve managed to keep your positive outlook and that you’re still trying to make the world that much of a better place. Thank you for being such a beautiful person.
On a positive note, I really can’t wait to hear what you have to say about slow fashion. It really is a part of the capsule journey.
Myself? I’ve been super busy learning to be a translator. So mentally draining! There have been a lot of ups and downs emotionally, but I’m finally creating a balance that makes it manageable, at least.
Lots of warm feelings sent your way!
I actually stumbled upon your blog just a couple months ago; I’m always looking for ways to pare down my closet and be more intentional with my purchases, and your blog came up. I devoured it, and then realized that you were on hiatus. Lucky for, me, I didn’t have to wait long for you to return. Glad that your mom is on the road to recovery and that you’re creating content on here for us to enjoy.
So happy to see you are back.
I can relate with the mother and breast cancer scenario. My heart goes out to you, it is hard stuff.
I’m looking forward to following along!
You’re attitude made me feel grateful for my good life that I wasn’t planning on and I reflect and realize that life rarely goes the way you plan it.
I am in love with those wood walls. It’s crazy how life changes in a second. Glad to have you back and glad your mom is on the road to recovery.
So happy to see you back! Your blog is so inspiring. I was very sad when you took your hiatus. I love how real you are. <3
Oh my God! I am SO glad you are back!!!! I have been stopping by on occasion, but somehow I missed this until now. YAYAY!!
Thank you so much for sharing this post with us: I am so pleased to hear your mum is doing well. I found your blog while you were on hiatus and I love it: so inspiring and educational. I am so looking forward to reading about what comes next!
Hi Caroline, so glad you’re back on un-fancy! Like many others, I stumbled upon your blog shortly before your hiatus and it was like all those times I’ve gotten into a band just before they split up. Gutted! No more records.
You actually inspired me to start my own blog so thank you for that. Mine’s not a fashion one because although I now live the deliberate-purchase, minimal closet lifestyle, I haven’t really found my own truly personal style as you have yet.
So glad to hear your mum is getting better and good on you for being such an advocate for breast cancer charities. Life rarely goes to plan – I actually laugh when I look at my birth plan now! The only point in writing one of those things is to take your mind off how sick you feel when you’re pregnant lol!
I look forward to following your new blogging phase, and wherever that journey takes you, I’ll be coming along. Welcome back x
Ahh! I’m thrilled you’re back (and to hear your mom is doing well with her recovery :) ). I enjoy your writing so much, and this post is really resonating with me right now. I’m very excited for your new blogging theme and to follow along with you again.
Caroline,
I totally know what you mean. My husband and I had all these big exciting ideas and adventures planned when we got married. Let’s just say in only 3 years of marriage we’ve gotten way more than we bargained for…but not the kind we wanted or planned. But the memories in those hard times are so sweet somehow. I’m not a blogger and don’t read blogs but I will being reading yours. I’m recovering from some life stuff and am glad I found you last month. So far your blog has been an inspiration to me and helped me through my soul searching.
Thanks bunches
Lizzie
Odd how something horrible can put everything – what you want & don’t want, what you need & don’t need, what you regret & don’t regret – in such sharp focus. So sorry for your mom’s diagnosis and terrible struggle, but so relieved that everything has worked out for both you and your family (and that she’s in recovery, that’s incredible)! Looking forward to reading more from you going forward :)
I came upon your site last year around the time of your last blog. I think you are fantastic. First, I was obsessed with clothes. I had everything from pre-baby work clothes, maternity clothes (just in case), post baby yoga pants (10 pairs), and current style. I had so many different lifestyle clothes I completely forgot what my current lifestyle was. I randomly came across your blog, and a giant bright lightbulb went off. DUH! How come I didn’t think of my wardrobe like this. I hated everything in my closet and never had anything to wear. It took me 6 months and a move to Texas to purge most of it. I don’t follow exactly, but now I can honestly say I buy only what I love. It was a challenge at first, but with anything else it takes some practice. I’m glad you are back & I look forward to move of your posts in the future. BTW – I also have used your ideas in other areas of my house….bedrooms, kids rooms, pantry, living room. Do we really need 4 pairs of sheets each? Do we all really need every wall in our home covered with stuff. Living simple….it’s the way to go!
Oh, my! when I first heard that you were coming back, I was so happy! I stalked your website for a few days and then I had to take a break… because, you know, life happens :-)
I’m back now (me too) and I’m reading it all, from where you re-started!
I’m happy because your mother is recovering well and I hope she will be in the clear for ever and ever and then some! It feels so wonderful to read you and see you’re not struggling and that you’ve embraced all and you’re enjoying life as is!
Yes, I will be missing your seasonal capsules but I think your ‘new’ approach is so real and so wonderful, so un-struggling, exactly what un-fancy is about!
THank you for being back, thank you for sharing all of this and thank you for wanting to chat all over again!
mwuah! :*
Welcome back! I discovered Unfancy while you were taking a break, as I am trying to create a capsule wardrobe for my work attire. I am so glad you are back blogging again!
-Meg
http://www.smalltownsisters.blogspot.com
Yaaaay! I’m so happy you are back at your blog and even happier to hear your mom is doing well! Looking forward to catching up on the rest of your new posts. :)
I can’t believe I didn’t realize you were back, however, reading your post this morning was so timely as I just received a similar call from my mother who lives 2,500 miles away. We are waiting for biopsy results and praying it’s not cancer, but we are both terrified. Thank you for your honest post.
I came back to take a look at some of your past posts. Trying to find some capsul inspirations (I´m not a capsule blogger myself but I think being able to shop less/better and take the most out our clothing is a skill we all need to learn) I couldn´t believe it when I saw the new posts!! All the past times Iended up here where to look at your good bye post and I felt so bummed I didn´t meet this blog sooner! I´m sooo happy I´ll be able to follow your posts now! (Totally subscribing and following you on every social media platform right now) Welcome back!! :)
Love from Bolivia
Sasha <3
Pilchas y Pintas
So thankful to have read this. I find your writing to be a beautifully meaningful guide. Happy to hear family is well. Thank you. Keep writing.
I just came here to get some inspiration from from your older spring and summer capsules and, let me just say, you made my entire evening when I realized you’re back!! I’m so excited!! And I’m so happy for your mom’s recovery. Amazing news!
My name is Sarah, and I feel I’m going to bloom again soon. I’m not a native English-speaker, so forgive my clumsy mistakes :)
I just passed at this blog since I loved your blogs so much in the past. It finally gave me the courage to re-organize my closet. And what will sketch my surprise when I saw you not only re-started blogging, but also will write about ethical clothes? I really cannot say how happy I am. This is EXACT what I need. I’m looking for more than 2 years now how to be stylish and comfortable AND ethical, and while I always liked your comfortable style I never found easy ethic options. I was about to give it up, really. You gave me fresh courage and pleasure, and the will again to not give up searching for good and fair clothes. THANKS THANKS THANKS.
I’ll keep up reading definitely!!
Incredibly happy you are back and excited to join you on the continuation of your journey! Congrats and well wishes to you Mom as well <3
Oh wow. I was just checking in to see if you were “back” and I’m so delighted to see new blog posts. I’m also sending best wishes from Perth, Western Australia to you and your family. Welcome back, you’ve certainly made my day : )
Hi there,
I first read your Blog in 2015 and loved your style, your stories and the idea of a capsule wardrobe. I was sad to see you take a break from blogging, but was so excited for you and your adventure!
I popped onto your site looking to see what you were up to and am so thrilled you’re back. I’ve got a lot of reading to do!! Your story had me in tears, but I am so glad to hear your mother is doing well and that you and aaron are settled and making it work.
Thanks for your posts. Looking Forward to following. Keep writing.
Lauren
Hi Caroline,
Life is strange journey indeed. Like many, I followed you in the past and just randomly checked back today. I’m excited to catch up and continue to hear your journey in fashion and otherwise. Very glad your mother is doing well. Also glad you could be there for her and share that time together. What a gift to you both. God Bless, and I’m about to catch up on months of stored blogs!! (For me, that’s like Christmas, so thank you. :) )
Caught up months later, but I wanted to check in and see how your mom was — I’m so happy to see that she is in recovery and you and your husband were able to do what was right for you — even if it wasn’t what you thought at first. Much love, health and happiness to you all in 2017.
Hi! I just found your blog and reading this post made me cry.
I’m Italian and my mom is recovering now from cancer. Reading your post made me feel understood. Those who have not lived this kind of situation can not understand the need to be there, the urge to stay with your mum (even if you are almost 30 as I am), to embrace her, to stay in bed with her watching TV series (so that she can think of something different than chemo an cancer). Thank you for sharing this!