Six capsules to capture the simple pleasures of fall

SOUP SEASON!!!

When I think of a “capsule wardrobe,” I see a 2010s blog graphic with 36 pieces of clothing, including a black and white striped tee, cardigan sweater, denim jacket, skinny jeans, ballet flats, and a fit and flare dress. ALL the bloggers circa 2014 were wearing capsule wardrobes, and the trend seems to have stuck—if not in the blogosphere, then on sustainable fashion accounts (like @whatkatefinds) and in the appeal of clothing subscription services like Trunk Club or Nuuly.

As a minimalist by nature (or by nurture—my mom does love a good closet clean out), capsule wardrobes and daily uniforms have always appealed to me. While I enjoy shopping and getting dressed, I don’t love stuffing my closet full of one-time-wears. I may not have the fortitude to stick with a 36 piece capsule at the moment, but I can apply the same concept to other areas of my life in order to keep things simple, sustainable, and conducive to creativity.

In June, I created a smattering of summer capsules to fight decision fatigue and prevent burnout during a tough couple of months. This collection helped me focus on the small joys of the season and served as a low pressure bucket list. I loved sitting down to create it and referring back to it when I needed inspiration.

To capture the simple pleasures of fall, I’m creating new capsules and inviting you to do the same. If you share your lists publicly, will you please tag me? Feel free to share them in the comments, as well. I’d love to hear about your priorities for the cozy season, and it’s always fun to glean new ideas from you all. 

Fall Meal Capsule

ALL THE SOUPS, obviously, but to keep it simple, I’ll focus on recipes from Joy the Baker.

• Roasted lemon chicken soup

• Creamy spiced squash soup

• Carrot apple ginger soup

My sourdough starter has been sadly neglected all summer, so it’s time to revive her. 

• Pumpkin sourdough bread

• Sourdough cake with apples

I think I need a crock pot. Do I need a crock pot? I used to have one and used it often when I was teaching full time, and it seems like it would come in handy for these busy toddler chasing days. 

• Sweet and sour brisket

• Beef goulash

• Burnt honey barbecue chicken

Fall Wardrobe Capsule

As much as I’d love to wear jeans more often this season, I have yet to find a pair that fits my post-baby body well, in addition to being comfy while sitting down or climbing on the playground with said baby. Enter: 

• Joggers and structured elastic waist pants 

• The best ribbed t-shirts

• A cute and cozy cropped sweatshirt

• Pullover sweaters and cardigans

• Sneakers and, eventually, boots (If anyone has recs for less expensive Blundstone alternatives, I’m all ears.)

• On my wishlist: Legend Sweater Shirt from Faherty

Fall Skincare & Beauty Capsule

Unfortunately, my skin decided to gift me with a little touch of perioral dermatitis on the outer corner of my eye, so my routine is significantly pared down for the next month or so while I get that cleared up. 

• Facewash

• Moisturizer

• Concealer (Shade 4 DTLA)

• Uoma lipstick in Coretta and Rare Beauty lip oil in Wonder

• About Face blush balm in Smash

Fall Activity Capsule

• Pick up pumpkins and mums for the front stoop, plus small gourds for Theo to wash or paint

• Plan family Halloween costumes

• Hike at a new spot

• Watch football and teach Theo how to say “Go, Pack, Go!” and “Touchdown!”

• Collect pretty leaves

• Start including Theo in food prep more often

• Go thrifting just for fun

• Make time for a new TV show

• Build a blanket fort for family movie night

Fall Reading Capsule

I wrote about my slimmed down fall TBR list and intend to stick to it, but I do have a few intentions to enhance my reading life.

• Read outside whenever possible

• Read for work during “work hours”

• Read instead of scrolling at night

Fall Self Care Capsule

I’m already feeling the physical toll of back-to-back fall colds, so I’m prioritizing three things for my health:

• Walking

• More veggies

• Sleep 

Mint tea is my go-to in any season, but I do like to treat myself to a few new flavors in the fall and winter. 

• Roasted pumpkin caramel rooibos

• Vanilla grapefruit mint rooibos

• Orange grapefruit herbal

Getting out of the house sans toddler to spend time with girlfriends is incredibly soul-filling for me, so I’m joining a local romance book club!

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These lists aren’t meant to be prescriptive. I won’t be checking off items as I go, and I might not even look at them until the season is over to see what worked and what didn’t. It’s setting the intention that matters, naming my priorities, and writing down the things I already own, have access to, and enjoy. For me, capsules are a time, budget, and brain power saver—and I look forward to making this a seasonal practice.

Which capsules might make your decisions easier this season? I can’t wait to hear about them in the comments.

P.S. If you’re enjoying this newsletter, please consider pledging a future subscription. I’m not turning on paid subscriptions yet, but your pledges will help me move forward with what’s best for my time, creativity, and the future of this space.

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To find out more about my current reads, favorite things, and life updates follow me on Instagram. If you’re interested in reading classic literature with accessible guidance and a cozy community, check out the Novel Pairings podcast and Patreon.