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.

---

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

---

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!

---

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.

---

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.

---

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.

---

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!

---

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!

---

[ 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 |

---

[ 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 |

---

[ 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 |

---

[ 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 |

---

  

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.

---

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

---

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

---

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!

Our Forever 21 Fall Favorites On a Budget

Not only do we love Forever 21 for the John 3:16 inscription on the bottom of all their shopping bags, but they also have extremely affordable prices. At Top Buttons, we've done all the research for you and have narrowed down their fall selection into a compiled list of 11 items that are around $15 and under.

1. Shimmering Floral Bib Necklace

This necklace is on sale for just $2.99. Its gold shimmer is both glamorous and functional.

2. Coconut Body Lotion

This body lotion is on sale for just $1.99. Forever 21 sells a variety of scents that smell amazing and are incredibly hydrating.

3. Kitschy Rhinestoned Woven Bracelet

This bracelet reminds us of those knotted friendship bracelets we all made and exchanged as children, but just a little more glamorous! For just $1.99, this arm candy could be yours.

4. Faux Leather Moto Jacket

We recently did an exclusive post about those trendy moto jackets that have become popular this fall, and Forever 21 offers one for $12.60 that will keep you up to date with the current trends but spare your wallet.

5. Woven Fringe Scarf

Everyone needs a neutral scarf to keep warm and spice up a plain outfit. This scarf is $8.80 and comes in multiple colors. The fringe adds a nice edge.

7. Bun Donut

Want to accomplish a perfect bun? A bun donut will do the trick. Forever 21 offers a diverse array of sizes for $1.90, depending on your preference.

8. Burgundy Beanie

Burgundy is one of the prime colors of fall, and it is especially great for accessorizing with items like beanies, leggings, or scarves. This beanie can be purchased for $3.90 or 2 for $6.

9. Solid Knit Leggings

Why not get some burgundy leggings to match your beanie? Forever 21 sells these knit leggings for $3.80 in eight different colors. They're a very essential staple to pair with an oversized shirt or dress.

9. Pretty Tough Bangle Set

Want a little bit of edge to add to your outfit? Try this bangle set, which is only $1.99 right now. The stud and pearl combination is a contradiction of sweet and tough.

10. Classic V-Neck Sweater

Sweater or cardigan -- whatever you call it, at Top Buttons we think that you just can't have enough of them! They're a convenient way to both cover your shoulders and keep warm. This particular one is sold for $13.80 in three different colors.

11. Low Rise- Ankle Skinny Jeans

These may be the most affordable and flexible pair of jeans you could ever own. This pair is $7.90. (Alexis owns several pairs of these.)

---

For your convenience, we took a screenshot of what all these items would tally up to in your Shopping Bag on Forever 21, which is only $53.95. If you divide that by 11 items, that averages to less than $5 an item!

Want MORE articles on Fashion Cents? Comment below with what you want to see!

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.

[divider_line]

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!

Easter Outfit Ideas for Any Budget

[blockquote]We all know that Spring is the time of the year to dress up in bright colors and floral prints, and what better day to do it than on Easter? [/blockquote] Easter is a holiday of celebration of Jesus' life and resurrection and one way we can express ourselves and rejoice is through the way that we dress. Aside from the obvious approach of having our wardrobe reflect our beliefs by dressing in modest attire, we can also intentionally dress in brights to celebrate the spirit behind Easter.

Top Buttons has compiled three Easter outfit ideas that fall in various price ranges and meet the aforementioned description of Spring fashion. We hope this inspires your outfit choice.

[divider_line]

All three of these looks are very in touch with the current fashion trends. The central focus of each outfit is of course the dress, while all the accessories shown are just ideas on how you can style it to fit your personality.

1. Look Number 1 - This whole outfit costs around $63, but chances are that you have a black handbag, a nude shoe, or a floral necklace to accompany the dress. If you don't, then these neutral items are worth investing in because of their versatility. The floral chiffon dress itself is only a $17 investment and can be accessorized with items you already have. To purchase these items: Dress | Necklace | Shoes | HandBag
2. Look Number 2 - This outfit is a little bit more expensive ringing in at $84, but it's still very classy. It features a floral knee-length body-con dress accompanied gold-toned accessories. The layered bracelets, the ankle-strap on the heels, and the glittered clutch are all eye-popping accents. To purchase these items: Dress | Bracelets | Shoes | HandBag
3. Look Number 3 - Outfit number three is centered around the sea-green A-line dress. The rose colored earrings accent the look nicely, especially with the coral purse and shoes. It adds a nice contrast. This outfit is on the higher-end of the price range, but similar pieces can be purchased elsewhere. To purchase these items: Dress | Earrings | Shoes | HandBag

For more outfit ideas, check out one of our previous posts called Thrifty Thursday: Three Church Outfits on a Budget.

Be encouraged this Easter season to spend quality time with your family and loved ones. Jesus died and rose again so live your life to the fullest!

Full Skirts Ahead

It is about that time of year! Before you know it, warm summer days will transform to crisp and cool weather. As for Fall Fashion trends...they are already here! But instead of sending a trench coat your way, ease your way into a garment that will bode well during the transition from one season to the next. We suggest one of Fall Fashion's favorites, full skirts!

Full skirts usually range from above the knee to mid calf but offer an array of styling options. The more popular version of the full skirt hits right above the knee. Below are a few examples (some offer a relaxed look while others are more structured).

If you are not completely satisfied with this particular version of full skirts, try a midi version. "Midi" full skirts can fall to the calf (depending on height). This sister skirt showcases just as much class if not more than the latter [shorter] full skirt, and is just as versatile.

- Jenna O.

Skirts in feature image:

Classy | Sleek | Feminine

#TBT: Shorts in a Skirt?

TBT: Part Two

Alrighty ladies, last week we had a "throwback" to snapbacks. So this week it is no surprise that we keep our #tbt in the same fashion era! What two-in-one garment is stealing the spotlight you might ask?! SKORTS!!

Yes the idea of skorts nowadays is "short" lived, but oh how we love them! Skorts are a classic and will always bring us found memories...especially if you thrived in the 80's. Bring this old school look to life by tossing on your traditional high-tops and trendy arm party!

Although skorts can be found at department stores and online ( J.CREW & Lilly Pulitzer ), thrift stores are the best place to finding a unique skort!

So for #tbt go with whatever your heart desires... a feminine floral skort or a ready to wear snapback. Just always remember that fashion has it's throwback Thursdays too!

-Jenna O.

Photo credit: Sarah Powers

Images Edited by: Jen Duarte

What To Wear On Easter Sunday

Haven't found an outfit for Easter yet? No need to worry! We have got you covered. We have taken the time to scout out outfit inspiration to help get you on track. Whether you want to wear a dress or pants, we have some great options for you. If you have your heart set on wearing a dress, the six dresses pictured above are styles that are not only adorable but, right on trend. Pastels, lace, and florals are all perfect for Easter. Not only that, but they are perfect for Spring. They are dresses that can still be worn after next weekend. No wasted money here!

If dresses are just not your thing, floral pants are a great option. Pair them with a peplum top and a blazer and you are straight off the runway!

We hope you are charged with inspiration and ready to put an outfit together that fits your personality and unique style! Whether you find styles like this in your own closet, your friend's closet or the store down the road we are confident you will hit a home run with your Easter Sunday look!

Have a happy stylish Easter!

Rebekah

Links to dresses above, left to right.

1| 2| 3| 4| 5| 6

Links to pants outfit:

top| blazer| pants| shoes| purse| earrings| bracelets

Mix It Up For Spring

Spring is in full bloom with vibrant colors and beautiful weather. It's a time when flowers and new beginnings blossom. As for fashion this season, why not begin trying new trends and experimenting with textures and prints.

We decided to take experimenting a bit further by layering a floral crop top over a lace dress. It is a perfect balance of texture and print. Because crop tops can be a hassle to pair "appropriately," this dress is a great solution. So whether it is styling garments in a new way or updating the old wardrobe, Spring is the time for fresh trends.

 Dress | Jacket | Floral Top | Purse | Bracelets | Ring

Photo Credit:  Moments by Jen

Still Trending: Floral Pants

Ladies, there is no need to look both ways before crossing the street in an eye catching floral look! This edgy take on a floral pant will have people clearing traffic as if the streets were a runway! With Spring on the horizon, patterned and floral pants are taking their place as the latest fad. Even though florals are rooted with a feminine touch, playing with colors and textures can take a once girlie print to an edgy style with spunk. The floral pant shown here is paired with a solid scoop neck and faux leather vest. A cap sleeve tee works just as well as a long sleeve, especially if you live in a warmer climate and the faux leather vest gives the outfit just the right amount of texture. Accessory wise, pick your pleasure: gold, silver, gunmetal, rose gold, etc. Any metal will look great against a floral, just be sure to stick with one type of metal. Add a crossbody in one of the hottest colors for spring such as blush, with an ever so classic Mary Jane pump to your look, and you are ready to take on any sidewalk or street... as if it was your own personal runway.

Vest  | Scoop neck | Floral pant | Mary Janes | Blush cross-body | Ring

Makeup Artist: Melissa Kinsey

Photo credit: Moments by Jen