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!

The Minimalist Life

The term "minimalist" refers to a person who prefers the minimum amount of something. In relation to fashion, a minimalist can often be found wearing neutral cuts and solid colors. This trend is sweeping its way to the top of everyone's wish list this summer. We are huge fans of the minimalist lifestyle, not only because it's both chic and classy, but also because its versatility leads to saving money!

Members from our staff, volunteers, and interns gathered to show off their minimalist looks! (The key to capturing a great minimalist #OOTD is to photograph against simple backgrounds.)

You'll notice that most of these outfits include some sort of outerwear, such as a jacket, vest, or kimono! Minimalists aren't afraid to layer!

Accomplishing this look requires minimum time and effort, which makes it a perfect match for the on-the-go free-spirited flow of summer! While some color is allowed, true minimalist outfits are thrown together with neutral colors that can be easily mix and matched, which is why becoming a minimalist is so affordable!

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.

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:

Pinterest Inspired Thrifting

Before I go to Salvation Army (or any thrift store), I like to search Pinterest for current specific trends and outfit ideas. I usually create a Pinterest Board, and then I venture off to the thrift store with these items in mind.

My most recent trip to Salvation Army was a success! I spent about $28 during their 50% off sale and purchased 10 items!

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This lace pencil skirt is Forever 21!

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This sweater from Salvation Army is Banana Republic. It features a slight high-low style, with frontal pockets, and  two different knits on the front and back.

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This might have been the biggest steal of the day! It had the ORIGINAL Nordstrom tag for $89.99 still on it, but was purchased for just $2.50. The brand is a vintage Jeffrey & Dara and therefore can no longer be purchased in retail stores.

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Most people are familiar with the classic Burberry plaid, but its high price is a quick deterrence. This plaid shirt is actually a MEN's shirt, but it has a similar eye-catching plaid pattern with its tan-red-and-black color scheme.

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Free People is pretty notorious for its flowy oversized and worn-looking tee's and sweaters. When this high-low oversized sweater was found in the plus-size* section at Salvation Army, I saw so much potential in it. By belting it mid-waist, it creates an A-line fit.

(I starred plus-size because I want to encourage you to PAY NO ATTENTION TO SIZE NUMBERS or SECTIONS while shopping at thrift stores. Don't let a number throw you off, some items at second-hand stores are so vintage that they may have shrunk, may have been tailored, or can vary in fit depending on brand. Try EVERYTHING on and wear what fits and looks right.)

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Tribal, Aztec, Southwestern – these diverse ethnic prints have risen in popularity for long enough that they aren't considered a fading trend.  This sweater is a great find because of its beautiful multi-colored pattern.

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Army green and studded anything are two trends that are popular apart from each other, but combining them together in ONE LOOK is even better!

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"Overall, I had a great day" -- My favorite thing to say every time I wear a great pair of overalls.

This overall dress is a rare find. It is a vintage look that may not be popular with everyone, but I proudly admit to owning about 6 pairs of overalls all together. They're so comfortable, versatile, and easy to wear!

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Waterfall cardigans are great because they can be thrown over almost any outfit to transform it from something simple to something styled. They are flowy and are perfect for those days you just want to cover-up a little more. This one I purchased is Forever21 brand!

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So, not everyone loves the "School Girl" look, but it can definitely be classy when worn right. I love this Pinterest-inspired outfit. I've been looking for the right plaid jumper for a while, but they are hard to come by. I lucked out when I finally found this one. The cashier checking out my items even complimented my find.

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All together, I was very satisfied with my purchases. After only spending 28.38 on ten items, each one averaged out to $2.84!

A Thrifted Look for Spring

You may look at this outfit and question how black or leather are spring trends, but the truth is that they are classic looks. Black can never go out of style, no matter what season; and leather is one of those trends that comes and goes but you can be confident that it will always come back. The main spring piece in this outfit is the emerald green lace dress. Bright colors are a must for spring! Check out Alexis' thrifted look below.

Believe it or not, but this entire outfit was thrifted! Some people are surprised when I show up in an outfit where every piece is second-hand, but I like to be living proof that you can dress for success without going broke getting there!

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This emerald green lace SHIFT dress was just $3.50 at Salvation Army during their weekly 50% off Wednesday sale, and my jelly wedge shoes were $4 thrifted there too. They both even came NEW WITH THEIR ORIGINAL TAGS!

The leather leggings were a $7 investment from Platos Closet– a second-hand clothing store that sells gently used name brand items! The classy cameo earrings are a vintage-inspired gift from a friend. Lastly, although the white oversized handbag is Jessica Simpson brand, it was actually found for a couple bucks at Goodwill.

My ENTIRE OUTFIT totals to about $20, but it makes me feel like a million bucks!

Unfortunately because all the items are thrifted, we can't link back to the original ones, but here's a few similar looking pieces:

Emerald Green Dress Macy's Price: $89 | Thrifted Price: $3.50

Leather Leggings Macy's Price: $7-22 | Thrifted Price: $7

Jelly Wedge Shoes Lulu's Price: $28 | Thrifted Price: $4

Cameo Earrings Overstock Price: 20 | Gifted Price: FREE White Handbag Forever 21 Price: $20 | Thrifted Price: $4

TOTAL SAVINGS: About $150

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I encourage you to flip through some positive fashion magazines and our Instagram feed to get your latest inspiration on fashion, make a list of the items you want in your wardrobe, and go on a thrift shop hunt to find them! When purchasing the items for this look, I knew there were a couple things I wanted: jelly shoes, a statement purse, and leather leggings. The lace dress was an added bonus!

How To Shop The Latest Trends Without Breaking The Bank

It's not always affordable to keep up with all the trends, especially when the brands marketing the hottest new items are typically expensive and the trends change so quickly that by the time we make one investment, something new is in stores.

Something I love to do is go to designer websites like Free People and Levi for my fashion inspiration, and then Google search the key words from those items to find something similar but more in my price-range!

By no means am I saying to stop shopping at the more expensive stores altogether, because the truth is they have QUALITY long lasting products... but I am suggesting you choose wisely which trends you're willing to invest more money in than others.

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Here's two side-by-side comparisons showing just how much money you could save by purchasing your items elsewhere!

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If you like what you see, here's where to purchase:

Free People Exaggerated Fringe Necklace | Walmart Fringe Statement Necklace

Levi Boyfriend Jeans | Walmart Boyfriend Jeans

Alexis' Affordable Winter Look

Winter typically has a stigma of being an "expensive" season. Aside from the mile-long list of presents to buy for all your loved ones, the cold weather is another reason to break the bank. In other words, it's so cold outside that layering up is essential, and we all know that more layers means more money... unless you know how to shop with an thrifty eye.

Take a look at the outfit details in Alexis' winter look with some accompanying links to where you can purchase similar items.

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Lace Peplum Top - $2 at Plato's Closet

Plato's Closet is a store that sells gently used second-hand clothing. Because they're always buying and selling, their inventory is ever-changing and each shopping trip is a wild-card experience. Alexis' top was only $2 during a sale, but it had the original tag of $40 from Kohls.

Purple Skinny Jeans - $2 at Plato's Closet

Again, these were purchased during a HUGE sale at Plato's Closet. Colored pants are super trendy, and this shade of deep pinkish-purple is popular this winter. The pants Alexis is wearing even has a metallic tint to the denim. A great benefit of Plato's Closet is that you can sell your own clothes to the store (as mentioned in our article on Tips for Buying Cheap Clothes), and use the pay as credit towards your purchases.

Boots - $30 at GoJane.com

Although the $30 range may not seem like an affordable look, keep in mind that there are just some items WORTH investing in, such as a good pair of boots. In retrospect, this price is actually great compared to other stores. However, a $30 purchase may take some time to save up for, so when spending this amount of money on something, ask yourself: how often will I wear this? Is it versatile and comfortable? And, how long will this last me?

Denim Jacket - Borrowed, but $12 at Forever21

The denim jack pictured was borrowed from a friend, which is a great option to have when you want to "try before you buy". About a week later, Alexis found a similar one on the sales rack at Forever 21 for just $12 (marked down from about $25). We linked a page of similar jackets available at Forever21, because we believe a denim jacket can be paired with most outfits.

Dooney & Bourke Purse - $10 at Salvation Army

Dooney and Bourke is a classic brand that sells "All-Weather Leather" handbags. Alexis happened upon this authentic vintage cross-body at Salvation Army during their 50% off Wednesday sale, it was $20 marked down to $10. The bag would have easily cost between $100-$200 at a store like Nordstrom or Dooney.com.

Stud & Pearl Bracelet Combo - $2 at Charlotte Russe

If you've ever gone to check-out at a store and got distracted by all the inexpensive items near the line, then you probably ended up spending a little bit more money than intended because you couldn't resist the alluring deals. That's what happened with this bracelet set at Charlotte Russe on a rack labeled 'All Items $1.99'.

TOTAL: $58

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Photography by:  Elisabeth Huijskens // elisabethhuijskens.com 

Makeup by: Yolanda Delacerda and Christi Northington

Five Fall Fashion Finds $5 And Under

CottonOn has quickly become one of our favorite stores, because it offers current trends, a lot of versatility, AND it is super affordable. One of our favorite features on their website is the "Nothing Over $5" section.

We realize that their online store is constantly changing, so the images included in this article may no longer be available to purchase on their website, however we wanted you to see HOW CUTE and inexpensive their clothing options are.

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Here are 5 CURRENT fall fashion finds for $5 & under:

1. The "Coin Ring" -- For just $2, this ring could be YOURS! Its mix of gold and silver tones make this a multifaceted accessory.

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2. The "Mila Print Leggings" -- $5 is a SMALL PRICE to pay for such a BIG STATEMENT that these leggings make. Pair them with a long black shirt or dress.

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3. The "Crissy Cross Crop" - Stripes are a closet staple, so $5 is an amazing price to pay for something so essential to your wardrobe! Plus,  the cut of this shirt is super flattering. Because this is a crop though, be sure to wear an undershirt or high-waisted pants to cover the midriff!

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4. The "Destiny Strappy Woven Dress" - This dress has such a feminine pattern to it! It's the epitome of revealing less while also spending less at just $5.

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5. The "Divided Long Sleeve Top" - This is one of those shirts that would be perfect to pair with those patterned leggings that made it on this list. Another $5 steal with a studded-embellished pocket.

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There you have it ladies -- a concise list that will enhance and redefine your wardrobe on a budget! We hope you like these fashion picks! Comment below to let us know if this article inspired any purchases.

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!

Thrifty Thursday: Three Church Outfits on a Budget

[blockquote]It's always important to look your best and present yourself with class -- and that most certainly shouldn't change just because you're going to church. You don't have to wear a dress that goes down to your ankles or clunky penny-loafers to be presentable for church either. Check out these three different -- yet modest and cute -- outfits on a budget![/blockquote] (To see where we found each item of clothing for sale, click on the smaller pictures.)

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[blockquote]Part of shopping on a budget and finding good deals means that you compare prices and weigh out your options. Do a Google shopping search to find items at different prices and stores that look alike. Then, check the ratings of the product and site. If you need more tips, feel free to email alexis@topbuttons.org.[/blockquote]

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[blockquote]When you are replicating a look, make sure to make it your own. That's why we selected a shirt that's different, but still very inspired. Think about what items in an outfit really stand out to you and WHY! If you really like Carrie's shoes, then find similar ones and create your own outfits centered around that piece.[/blockquote]

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[blockquote]This last look can be pulled together from so many basic items in your wardrobe, and since all of the pieces are neutral colors in black, white, and gold, they would be an investment to purchase because you'll be able to wear them again and again. [/blockquote][divider_line]

If you enjoyed this article, give us some FEEDBACK, and check out our similar Fashion Cents articles by Alexis.

Meet Macey and her Modern-Chic Apparel

Meet Macey and her Modern-Chic Apparel!She's currently in college pursuing a degree in Multi-Disciplinary Studies. Her charming personality is both fun-loving and personable. Macey currently  juggles several involvements between her college classes, maintaining friendships, and volunteering at church. She even serves as a Community Leader in her residence hall at college, meaning that her role is to help build community among her peers. What amazed the Top Buttons team is that she accomplishes all this and more with such poise and professionalism.

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For Macey's first outfit, she wore a plaid flannel top (purchased at Salvation Army for $3) and her favorite high-waisted black pants (purchased at Forever21 for $10).

What's so great about this look is that Macey pulls together staple items and makes them her own! She wears her clothes, and doesn't allow her clothes to wear her. It's amazing how much confidence can make a difference.

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Macey's second outfit provides a completely different look and feel, but incorporates a lot of the same articles of clothing.

This is a really admirable quality, because most girls deal with the illusion of thinking, "I have NOTHING to wear," in the midst of staring at a full closet. While most of us here at TopButtons can admit to having said that, we all know we were mostly being dramatic. Instead of resorting to that thought, challenge yourself to rework old pieces with new ones and pair a variety of tops and accessories with the same basic pants and shoes. Your closet will seem to grow without breaking the bank.

Let's see how Macey did it:

Macey wears a denim chambray that her sister gave her as a hand-me-down; a chunky gold necklace that she got from a closet exchange with a friend; and the same pants and shoes as her last outfit.

[blockquote]My favorite piece is the necklace. It dresses anything up. It was a tie between that and the shoes. They're just so comfy.[/blockquote]

Now that you've seen how Macey styled two outfits by incorporating a few of the same pieces, TopButtons encourages you to do the same with YOUR wardrobe and to let us know your results!

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On behalf of TopButtons, thanks for staying tuned with us on this three part article series with Tiffany, Maddy, and Macey!

A Western Winter Look on a Budget

Meet Alexis -- Top Button's Fashion Cents coordinator. She specializes in making fashion affordable for any budget and she's also known for bringing the most unconventional colors and patterns alive throughout any season.

Her floral denim jacket was purchased last winter at American Eagle with a gift card that she received for Christmas. Alexis only feels comfortable to splurge on one item when she gets to spend her gift cards, but even this jacket was on sale for $25.

Today she wears a cream lace Papaya dress that she purchased for only $6 at Goodwill. The inspiration of this whole outfit was centered around this dress.

The pink-ish tan tights were just $2 brand new from Goodwill, but were originally from Target.

Last, but certainly not least, are her genuine cowgirl boots purchased for just $3 at Salvation Army during their 50% off sale. Every season, Alexis  creates a "fashion must-have wish list" and a pair of cowgirl boots made the cut. When she spotted these shoes and they were the perfect fit, she felt like she was caught in the middle of a western Cinderella story.

The total cost of this outfit was just $36! 

(However, if you keep in mind that the jacket was purchased with a gift card, this outfit only cost Alexis $11 total!)

For more fashion features of great deals, celebrity looks for less, and thrift shop hauls, comment below with what you'd like to see Alexis post next.