2015 Holiday Gift Guide

Keeping in mind that the Christmas season is all about giving and receiving, we've put together a 2015 Holiday Gift Guide that features a variety of items all priced at $25 and under. Not only are they affordable, but these items are essential to every woman's life. An added bonus, is that each of these items is small enough to fit into a stocking too!

So whether you're looking for ideas of what to put on your own wishlist or you're on the hunt for the perfect present for a friend or family member, you can't go wrong with these suggestions.

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I mean, who doesn't love a good mug?! Nowadays there are so many to choose from. Some feature inspirational quotes, while others are printed with cute graphics. Some are made for hot drinks on-the-go, while others are made to be sipped from home. With a little perusing, you'll be sure to find one that perfectly fits your personality.

We found these three: Francesca's | Starbucks | Target

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A journal for the journey. Everyone is on a journey in life, and us women usually like to document it! From diary entries to letters to notes and more, journals are so handy -- so why not make it cute?

Barnes & Noble has the absolute best selection of journals around, including this set of Vintage Blossom ones.

Urban Outfitters has a selection of stationary as well, and this Feather Notebook is a favorite!

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The best thing about candles is that it's like the gift that keeps on giving! Seriously, it can change the mood and atmosphere of a whole room, over and over and over again ... until it burns out, of course.

What you may not know is that the Dollar Tree sells Skittle-scented candles (best idea ever). If you thought you loved eating Skittles, wait 'til their scent fills the room. (We are not responsible if this gift makes you hungry though!)

On the other hand, Bath & Body Works is the go-to for all things scent-related. From body wash, to lotion, to candles, they have it all -- both in quantity AND quality. The Vanilla Bean Noel candle is timeless. While it is fitting for the holidays, it is one of those scents that never gets old.

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Lotion -- it's a triple threat that helps you smell good, look good, and feel good. It helps alleviate dry, rough, and itchy skin, so say goodbye to those days and hello to an array of scented lotions.

As mentioned before, Bath & Body Works is the ideal place to shop for scents, and this Warm Vanilla Sugar gift set includes lotion, body wash, and hand sanitizer for a great value.

Ulta, on the other hand, is the prime place for all cosmetic-related shopping. Their OPI Body Lotion set comes with 6 different scents. This set will accommodate anyone, whether they just want to switch scents daily, or try a bunch out until they find the one they love best.

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The secret to buying wallets: purchase a wallet that's cheap enough, so that once you've bought it you'll still have money left over to keep in it. That's why we searched for two versatile and affordable wallet options from Charming Charlie & Forever 21. These wallets are available in neutral colors, so that they can match with any purse.

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Big necklaces and graphic-faced watches are so in this year. Why spend loads of money on ever-changing accessory trends?

Wal-Mart can help you make a statement with a necklace like this bold Pearl Cluster one.  They have a great selection of statement necklaces ranging from $5-$15. You'll be sure to find an accessory as unique as you or a friend.

Charlotte Russe and Rue 21 both have an assortment of watches, each one featuring a different face. This Flower Garden watch is just $7! By searching "watch" in their search-bar, you'll find a large variety ranging from quotes, to patterns, to pictures and more!

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After reading our Holiday Gift Guide, we hope you've been inspired for both wish-list making and gift-giving!

An Easy Summer Look

Loose fitting, free flowing clothing has become a popular style these days. This trend is flattering on most body shapes and provides maximum comfort. For today's article, Destiny models this ever so popular loose fitting, flowy look! We have broken down her outfit piece by piece and found some similar items for you to purchase!

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[ T O P ]

The length of her basic white tank is ideal because it falls just past her waist-line. Draped over her tank is a floral kimono featuring a lace hem. The light-weight layering is perfect for those breezy summer days because it lets air travel through the material.

| White Tank: Cotton On - $15 |

| Kimono: H&M - $20 |

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[ B O T T O M S ]

Destiny's skinny jeans are cuffed at the ankles (cuffs are a trendy way to hide the fact that you can't find the perfect-length pants), and feature rips along the pant legs for a distressed look.

The Forever 21 model's pant length fit her perfectly in these similar jeans, so  wearing them with and without cuffs looks good. When shopping, finding the right pant length is all about availability and preference!

| Ripped Jeans: Forever 21 - $25 |

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[ S H O E S ]

Tan strappy shoes with a cork wedge are a closet-staple! Summer shoes like Destiny's are so versatile that they can be paired with anything! Although she wears it with jeans and a cute top, you could also wear them with a cute romper or summer dress. These Charlotte Russe wedges are similar in style and color palette, but rather than cork wedges, there's a braided hemp.

| Wedges: Charlotte Russe - $35.99 |

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[ A C C E S S O R I E S ]

Destiny's bronze owl pendant necklace is the kind of accessory that matches any outfit with a neutral color palette. We were able to find the SAME necklace that Destiny wears, and luckily for you, this necklace is so popular that we've seen it in other stores such as Etsy, Amazon, and even Wal-Mart!

| Necklace: Claires - $12.50 |

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If this article has inspired your summer wardrobe, send us a pic or use the hashtag #TopButtons on social media.

Summer Trends On A Budget

Summer is just around the corner and before you know it, you'll be tanning poolside (enjoying the sun) and making memories to last a lifetime! So here are two affordable summer trends that will help YOU look fabulous while doing it.

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1. White Pants:  The white pant trend can be worn in a variety of ways. Walmart's skinny dress pant is great for a summer job or internship; Forever 21's joggers are comfy for a casual day out with friends; and Target's palazzo pants make a bold statement and can be dressed up or down.

Walmart | Forever 21 | Target

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2. Flower Crowns: These cute hair accessories make us ladies feel extra feminine and fairy-like! They come in subtle styles with small flowers or even giant head-turning arrangements. Flower crowns are most popular for a trip to a summer festival, but they definitely can be added to any outfit to conceal a bad hair day.

Charlotte Russe | Forever 21 | Target

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Whether you're working with a $5 budget or have loads of money to dish out, investing in these two summer 2015 trends will make for priceless photo-ops!

Get Zendaya's Look Without Paying the Price

Zendaya Coleman made her way to fame in 2010 on the Disney Channel hit show called Shake It Up. Airing in 30 minute episodes, the show follows the friendship of two teenage girls: Rocky (Zendaya Coleman) and CeCe (Bella Thorne). This dynamic duo is best known in the show for both their passion for dancing and their funky mix-and-matched fashion choices.

These ladies are just as trendy in real life too! Let's take a glimpse specifically at Zendaya's street style.

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Zendaya is often seen wearing boyfriend jeans (as pictured above). Blogger Sincerely, Jules captured Zendaya's look PERFECTLY in her celfie shirt and boyfriend jeans. Check out how you can accomplish a style similar to both Sincerely, Jules & Zendaya.

Here, Jules puts a fun twist on the selfie trend with her loose-fit "CELFIE" graphic tee. It's simple with its black-on-white text to tee combo and slouches over her boyfriend jeans.

Her jeans feature distressed rips, a baggy fit, and are cuffed at the bottom. Along with their cute look, boyfriend jeans are such a favorable trend because they are COMFORTABLE , leaving room to move and breathe. Jules successfully rocks the layered look by tying a camouflaged utility jacket around her waist.

Playing on the tomboy look, with her loose-fitting clothes and camouflage accents, she still keeps it classy and girly with her shoes and accessories: Wayfarer frames, a polka-dotted cross-body purse, and her Valentino-inspired pumps (which is our favorite).

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Here's Where to Purchase Everything:

Target: Celfie Shirt | Sincerely, Jules: Celfie Shirt

Boyfriend Jeans

Camouflage Utility Jacket

Valentino Inspired Pumps (Check out our article for more info on the Pumps)

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Here are other looks by Zendaya Coleman that we absolutely adore:

A Must Have For Your Closet: Knee-High Boots

Knee-high boots are a must have pair of shoes that every girl should have in her closet. These flattering and stylish boots can complete the perfect outfit, whether you're wearing a pair of cute shorts or a fancy dress. Knee-high boots come in a variety of styles and colors so finding a pair to wear with your favorite winter outfit should be an easy task.

Charlotte Russe has a variety of knee-high boots at an affordable price. They have boots with or without heels, different colors and boots with belts and buckles. Finding a pair of knee-high boots that fit your personality and style can be easily accomplished at Charlotte Russe. You never know, you may even find a pair on sale!

Shoe Dazzle is another great place to purchase some of these trendy shoes. Shoe Dazzle even personalizes shoes for you off of a quick survey based off of your likes and dislikes. The experience of having pairs of shoes picked out for you is fun and easy, and can make shoe shopping enjoyable.

Francesca's is a cute boutique that focuses on trendy styles. Wearing knee-high boots is a fashion statement, and Francesca's will help you create that statement with the boots they sell. The whimsical style they present is perfect to finish off that outfit you've been dying to wear.

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Knee-high boots can be expensive depending on the brand and style, however, there are always sales and stores, like Charlotte Russe, Shoe Dazzle, and Francesca's, where you can find the pair of knee-high boots that will fit your style at an affordable price. Knee-high boots are definitely one item you must have.

Written by Rachel Jordan Photos by Elisabeth Huijskens // elisabethhuijskens.com Makeup by Yolanda Delacerda and Christi Northington

Tips & Tricks to Find Your Summer Wardrobe on A Budget

Shopping for the perfect summer wardrobe is very important, but in many places summer is such a short season that it comes and goes before we even get to wear our favorite pieces. Included in this article are a few tips that will help you make purchases that are both affordable and versatile enough to wear for seasons to come.

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1. Tip #1: Shop the clearance rack at stores like Target. When there's a shift of seasons, what's left from last season goes on sale. Specifically look for DRESSES! Practically any dress can be fashioned in the summertime. Alexis found these on the 70% off rack, and depending on the occasion she can find somewhere to wear each of these dresses.
2. Tip #2: Buy a pair of nude sandal wedges! They are a must-have!! Although Alexis found the ones below brand new at Goodwill, they were originally from Target! The boots were an added bonus find, and were so cheap because they were purchased in the off season. Sometimes a purchase now can save you money in the long-run. (Note: Only buy thrifted shoes if they are new or gently used.)

   

3. Tip #3: One-piece swimsuits are cheaper, more comfortable, and provide more coverage! Instead of trying to buy two separate pieces with the added cost of each piece, why not pay one price? Plus, when you're out and about with friends at the pool or beach, you won't have to worry about adjusting your suit. Alexis found a red halter one-piece with ruffles across the bust for $15 at Bealls Outlet. Other affordable one-piece suits can be found at Target, H&M, and even Charlotte Russe.
4. Tip #4: Buy thrifted florals!! They will surely be in style for summer, and pop when you where them in the fall. If you want to make a statement, raid the racks of your local thrift store for some floral finds. Floral print is one of those trends that never fades, so there's always lots of options at the thrift store, PLUS you'll be sure to get something that NO ONE else has. [divider_line]

We hope you enjoyed these tips, and we look forward to seeing your rock your summer style on a budget! From comfy dresses, to shoe essentials, to modest swimwear, and even to floral prints - there's so many ways to put together an affordable summer wardrobe that will carry into next season.

Be sure to tag us (@topbuttons) in your trendy Instagram posts!

The Young Women's Conference You Must Attend For 2015

On April 10-12, The Church of Rockford First hosted an event called Original Women's Conference where nearly 2,000 ladies were in attendance. This three day span of time was jam-packed with several sessions centered around God's Ever & Always kind of love.

Enjoy this brief recap video as seen on the Original Conference website.

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Top Buttons had the honor of bringing a fun and dynamic team of ladies to this conference.

After a long morning of travels on Thursday April 10th, our TB team went straight to the conference site at Rockford First to set up our promotional booth.

We not only offered information about our organization, but we also sold hand-crafted button earrings and consignment clothing. All proceeds went straight to the Top Buttons' fund.

Our booth was conveniently located right next to the Teen Room so tons of young ladies were constantly stopping by our table. In addition, we neighbored another amazing organization called Sak Saum. They sell a variety of hand crafted accessories in efforts to raise money to fight against human trafficking. "Sak Saum exists to set captives free through rescue, restoration, rehabilitation and transformation," says their website.

Night one's sessions kicked off the conference with inspiring every lady to make a "In It For Good" commitment to Christ. Just as lover's forever latch locks onto Lover's Lock Bridge in Paris, each lady was provided with a lock and key to initial and forever lock upon fences labeled In It For Good.

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Day two held just as many adventures as day one. We came across so many stylish ladies, we just had to document their outfits. Here's just a few:

Sarah (pictured top right) was visiting Rockford on a pastor's wives retreat when she came across this red Jones New York maxi dress. She shared with us that she wasn't purchasing anything new for a whole year, so it was to her luck that our items were all consignment. Scared that the red dress might clash with her hair, she tried it on anyways and came out glowing with excitement. It was made for her!

When night two finally came, our Top Buttons team had the opportunity to speak about fashion and modesty at the scheduled After Party in the Teen Room. Each team member passed out book marks with pictures and information on where to purchase key items in their outfit.

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We loved connecting with so many new friends over common interests like our love of God and fashion. Amanda (pictured below in the hat) recently started her own consignment shop called Worth Royalty where her goal is to provide an affordable and appropriate shopping option that shows young women that they are worth royalty.

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Day three included life-changing sessions; last-minute sales; and lots of coffee, good-byes, and travel.

Our very own Molly Dodd and Alexis Gauthier got to meet and hand deliver custom button earrings to one of the guest speakers named Charlotte Gambill.

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For outfit details on what our Top Buttons' team wore to the After Party, here's the scoop:

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Taylor Murray fashioned what she likes to call a "Tomboy-meets-Feminine" look! Growing up, Taylor always leaned toward her tomboy tendencies, however, as she's matured, she's learned to incorporate her unique flair and sophistication to create a wardrobe similar to this outfit.

To purchase key items from Taylor's look:

Blazer | Boyfriend Jeans | Silver Necklace | Tortoise Watch

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Betsie Amendola keeps it simple by representing her every-day "Tribal Print-Chic" look. On a typical day, you can find Betsie wearing neutral colors paired with over-sized sweaters to stay versatile and comfortable. Betsie loves shopping at Ross because it offers a more affordable selection of trendy name-brand clothes.

To purchase key items from Betsie's look:

Aztec Cardigan | Riding Pants | Bangles | Wedges

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Alexis Gauthier's style changes almost as swiftly as her moods. To let you all in on a secret, for this "Classic Black & White" look, Alexis actually purchased all her items at thrift stores! Her black jumpsuit was 50% off at Salvation Army, which tallied up to about $3. While on Spring Break, a white blazer made it to the top of Alexis' Spring Must Have list, so she quickly grabbed this one off the Goodwill racks for just $6. Thrifting may take a little extra time, but with the added effort you can get current trends (as linked below) for just a fraction of the cost.

To purchase key items for Alexis' look:

White Blazer | Black Jumpsuit

There you have it! Three completely different styled looks from the hearts of the Top Buttons team to yours!

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All in all, attending the Original Women's Conference in Rockford, IL was a magical experience. From the performances, to the decor, to the sermons and worship, every detail was intentionally taken care of. Our Top Buttons team had such a blast attending the sessions, representing at our booth, and even speaking to the ladies in the Teen Room at their Friday night After Party.

We had a blast, left feeling empowered, and want to encourage all of you to be at the Original Women's Conference in 2015!

Trends with Tiffany: A Classy and Sweet Style

Tiffany Hammer is a Pennsylvania-raised fashionista currently studying as a freshman at Southeastern University. Not only is she an amazing pianist, but her style is just as classy and sweet as her personality. Top Buttons had the pleasure of capturing two different outfits while Tiffany was out on the town with some friends. (Check back later this week for more details on their looks too!)

[blockquote]A gold watch is essential to any wardrobe. I got this one at CottonOn for super cheap![/blockquote]

[blockquote]My favorite article of clothing is the pink blazer from Charlotte Russe. I love taking a risk with a bold color that makes an outfit pop![/blockquote]

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[blockquote]I really like my lace dress from Urban Outfitters! Pairing a jean vest with a neutral color creates an Indy look.[/blockquote]

For a similar look to Tiffany's lace dress, make sure to check out our article featuring Zooey Deschanel's Look for Less, where she also wears a cute lace dress and some black tights.

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This is a sneak peak of some of the other styles from our Top Button's photo shoot that we'll feature in upcoming articles.

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For more insider scoops inside the lives of everyday ladies, check out our recent posts called A Winter Wardrobe with a Southern Belle, and a A Western Winter Look on a Budget

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The Color Block Wedge

Fierce & Bold OR flat & boring? It is a simple question that I refer to as "WEDGE you Rather"?!

Deciding on a shoe that adds vavoom to any summer look is no game. Wedges have been, and will always be a summer favorite, but we urge you to spice things up with a color block style wedge!

Color blocking as shown below, ranges from two-toned straps to patterned wedges (the options are limitless).

 

Top row (left to right):  1 | 2 | 3

Bottom row (left to right):  4 | 5 | 6

 So "would you rather" stick to the mundane sandal, or try a few pops of color with a vibrant color block wedge? The choice is all yours...

-Jenna O.

Photo credit:  Sarah Powers

Images Edited by: Jen Duarte

sailor chic ootd

Spring break is right around the corner, and we are loving the nautical look for Spring. It is not only versatile, according to Teen Vogue, but it gives you a simple and clean look. Pairing nautical navy stripes with a pop of color keeps the Springtime interesting and colorful!

Dress | Earrings | Bow | Purse | Bracelet | Shoes | Ring

 

Military Chic

Call your friends and family, call everyone in your contact list! Better yet call a taxi, for this army jacket deserves more than one appearance uptown, and here is why. Military jackets and pieces usually give off a casual or grunge vibe. If styled with the proper accessories and paired with a closed-toe pump, the once "grunge" appeal will be booted to the curb. To tie in the feminine touches, go for a bow hair wrap or any other girlie hair accessory that may suit you best. As for jewelry, skip the bangle or two and complete the look with an arm party. All military styles have one thing in common and that is being bold. This preppy military look will not only hail every taxi in the city, it will leave you in the highest ranks of fashion!

Graphic T | Shoes | Jacket | Jeans | Head wrap | Purse | Gold Arm Party

Written by: Jenna Olinger       Photos by: Moments by Jen