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!

The Moto Jacket For Summer

The moto jacket was the hot ticket item to keep the chill off this past season. For many, it was a daily staple worn with anything and everything. However, with temperatures rising, it's time to find a lighter alternative that keeps us cool without  sacrificing the edgy factor of the moto jacket. Meet the moto vest, the trendy sleeveless version of the moto jacket. It's lightweight and versatile enough to be a staple in your summer wardrobe. Layering always adds a wow factor to an outfit, this vest is perfect for the warmer months.

Like the moto jacket, this vest comes in a vast variety of colors, prints, and materials. We love chambray because it can basically be worn with anything. We're all about stocking our closets full of pieces that can be styled several different ways. For more vest inspriration and ways to wear them, click here and here.

To purchase a vest similar to the one pictured above, click here.

Happy Styling!

Rebekah

Photography by: Elisabeth Huijskens

Get the Look: AnnaSophia Robb's Romper

Soul Surfer star, 21-year-old AnnaSophia Robb took the photo above (which was published in Teen Vogue) while in Florence, Italy. This travel friendly outfit is ideal for spring break traveling and family vacations as we approach the summer months. AnnaSophia's outfit is totally adventure-worthy. With celebrities rocking rompers all over the streets as the weather gets warmer, AnnaSophia wears it best in our book. The romper is a classic piece that has a history dating back to the early 20th century, but is making a huge comeback. Rompers are cute, comfortable and provide coverage while still being cool enough for the summer, or wearable when it's colder in the evenings when paired with a cardigan. We love how AnnaSophia's romper features long sleeves and a button-up look along with a really fun pattern. AnnaSophia accessorizes her plaid romper with a neutral-colored belt, sunglasses, comfortable flats and a long gold pendant necklace. The trick to wearing a romper is choosing one with an interesting pattern or material and having fun pairing it with accessories.

Good news! You can get a look similar to AnnaSophia's, all at Forever 21, and all for under $60.

Romper/Belt/Sunglasses/Necklace/Shoes

We love our Top Buttons photography lead, Elisabeth Huijskens and how she is choosing to rock her romper this spring! For more romper history and details on where she scored her outfit, visit her blog here. Happy spring!

Written by: Katy Abramowich

Summer Playlist Must-Haves

It's Summer! This means VACATION, beach trips, pool parties, and gatherings with your friends and family. Here are some tunes you can listen to that will surely get you in the summer mood. Enjoy!

1. "Move" - Kaleidoscope

This duo of best friends met in college and joined forces to spread the message of the Lord. "Move" is definitely a song that will make you dance. It motivates us to embrace who we are in Christ and to let Him lead our lives.

2. "Every Good Thing" - The Afters

From their 5th album Life is Beautiful, "Every Good Thing" proclaims that life is PRECIOUS! Let's not take it for granted.

3. "Do Life Big" - Jamie Grace

This spunky song is Jamie Grace's new single. It encourages us to do life BIG like Jesus did. We can make a change!

4. "Gold" - Britt Nicole

Britt Nicole never ceases to inspire us with her truthful lyrics & music. You are GOLD! Special, unique and worth so much.

5. "Alive" - Hillsong Young & Free

From the latest Hillsong group, this song is a celebration. We are alive because of Jesus' sacrifice for us, He died out of love for us. How awesome is that!

6. "Try" - Colbie Caillat

At Top Buttons, we love the message Colbie sends out through this song. You, YES YOU, are beautiful. One might feel insecure about how we look but this song is a great reminder of what real beauty is.

About the Author:

Jelsianly Freytes is 20 years old & from Puerto Rico. Currently, she's a senior in the University of the Sacred Heart with a major in television & cinematography. Music is a huge part of her life, dancing for the Lord is her passion and traveling brings her joy.

"I can do ALL things through Christ who strengthens me." Philippians 4:13.

Restyle Your Summer Wardrobe

There are so many ways to get more use from your clothes by doing some simple restyling. Summer is a great time to practice this, as there are so many options to incorporate into your looks. This is the season you can wear those lovely floral prints, some bold colors, and of course, sunglasses!

The most cost-effective way to change up your wardrobe is to invest in accessories. By simply changing your footwear, necklace, sunglasses, and a few other items, you can create a range of stylish looks with the same basic pieces.

Below are some outfit inspirations to help you switch things up. Have a lovely peace and laughter-filled summer!

About the author:

Nash Amber is a devoted lover of Jesus Christ, who loves styling herself and others. Born and raised in London; she enjoys spending time with her family, studying the bible, dressing up, having fun in the sun (when the weather is nice) and investing quality time into people.

She currently is a modest style blogger who shares fashion/style ideas along with details on her personal walk with Him.

Follow Nash through her blog, and keep up with her through her social networks:

Facebook - Instagram - YouTube - Twitter

Take It Easy: Effortless Summer Style

Don't sweat it this summer when it comes to your wardrobe! This summer's style is easy, relaxed, and comfortable. With the cool and classic "boyfriend jean" making it's headway this summer,  making a style statement has never been easier!

Wear them distressed, light washed, slim, long, short, cuffed, cropped- however you wear them, they are sure to add an element of effortless edge to your outfit. Not to mention, they are wonderfully comfortable and breathable for those hot summer days. Pair them with your favorite white or message tee for an extra dash of boyish charm. And of course, complete the look with some eclectic accessories to express your personality and add a feminine touch.

This look says confidence and one-of-a-kind style! The top is a bold and fun muscle tank from H&M for only $7! Paired with AG relaxed skinny boyfriend style jeans from Nordstrom for $205. A cute tan bootie heel is another summer essential, found at Nordstrom Rack for $25! The finishing touches to the look are a studded hat from Charlotte Russe for $10 and a multi-chain necklace found at a consignment shop for $7.

This next look features another way to wear boyfriend jeans: boyfriend shorts! These were found at Nordstrom on sale for $25! The message tee is from Aritzia for $15, and the hat is $10 at Charlotte Russe.

This look includes a loose-fitted white tee with sheer panel details from Nordstrom for $25 with a baggy-fit, light-washed boyfriend jean from H&M for $30. Finish this effortless outfit with a chunky statement necklace and a fun printed oxford. The statement necklace is one of the hottest trends in accessories and can be found just about anywhere. The printed oxfords were found at Nordstrom Rack for $15!

So, this summer, keep it simple. Be relaxed. Be yourself.

PHOTOGRAPHER: HANNAH DOBSON

How to Combine Three Totally Different Styles

In OUR VERY FIRST Un-Style Me video ON OUR TOP BUTTONS YOU TUBE CHANNEL, Amanda is showing us how to create an outfit combining three different styles: boho, edgy and classic. This look is perfect for a relaxed Saturday grabbing a coffee or shopping with your girlfriends. We hope this video inspires you to collide your favorite pieces to create a totally unique and totally YOU - look.  Show us your #unstyleme look on instagram!  We would love to see how you combine different styles to create your #lotd! http://youtu.be/rn46yy20aTM

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!

D'Orsay Flats Under $100

D'Orsay flats are a sophisticated shoe that come in a number of different patterns, colors, and styles. They are known for their signature side "cut outs" which add a fun twist to your average flat. These beauties can be worn with shorts, skirts, or pants. We've rounded up a few pairs that are budget friendly and stylish. All are under $100... you're welcome!

Chinese Laundry // Nine West // Halogen

Steve Madden // Sole Society // BC Footwear

Steve Madden // Old Navy // Gilt

(top image)

Happy Styling,

Rebekah

Super Top Buttons Fans show us Their Favorite Spring Looks

Recently TopButtons had the opportunity to do a photo shoot with two of our biggest supporters: Abby and Makailey. These lovely high school students remind us why we do what we do and they are living examples of what it means to reveal less and express more.

Enjoy some of our favorite shots accompanied by some details of their trendy outfits.

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Meet Abby! Her bright colors and cute pose represent her fun personality! Abby's ombre dress blends from pink to orange, which is perfect for Spring. She purchased her dress at Target.

Abby chose to accessorize her outfit with layered necklaces and a cute bow ring, but this dress can be paired with all kinds of jewelry to express one's unique style.

Abby's metallic sandals are from TJMaxx, which is a great store because it offers high quality name-brand clothing at a fraction of the price!

Abby's Favorite Bible Verse: I love the Lord, for he heard my voice; he heard my cry for mercy. Because he turned his ear to me, I will call on him as long as I live. [Psalm 116:1-2]

Photo credit: Betsie Amendola

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Meet Makailey! She chose to create a color contrast with a sea-green blouse from Bealls and a pink bauble necklace that she scored at Goodwill.

Makailey's white pants are perfect for Florida's warm weather. She was able to get these at Old Navy, which provides several affordable options.

Makailey's Favorite Bible Verse: By day the Lord directs his love, at night his song is with me— a prayer to the God of my life. [Psalm 42:8]

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Not only do Abby and Makailey have a good sense of style, but they also have good hearts. Because they have such a unique and dynamic friendship with each other, they're able to remind each other of their value in Christ.

Photo Credit: Brittany Biddinger

Styling 101: Weekend Picks

The Summer of long days by the poolside and being school free are coming to an end. Although we are trading our swimwear & fashion forward days for uniforms [some of us business attire] we MUST not give up on our weekends. In other words ladies, we cannot forget that we still have the weekends to dress in remembrance of our carefree days.

So without further ado, we now deem every weekend a reTREAT! Here are two of our favorite -completely different- picks to get your weekend started!

First up is the infamous nautical themed look. We chose to play with the contrasting shades of blue, the lighter hue to brighten the look, and the darker blue to be the root color of the outfit. Add simple studs and fabulous sunnies to complete the head-to-toe style.

Blouse | Skirt | Tote | Flats | Sunnies | Studs 

 For the second look, we are taking it to the streets (or the mall, dinner, really wherever you like). The tank dress is casual, but the pop of yellow in the sandals and the matching crossbody adds pizzazz! Did we forget to mention this eye-catching China Glaze polish in Caribbean Temptation?!

Tank dress | Sandals | Crossbody | Polish 

Have a great weekend. Be sure to TREAT yourself!

-Jenna O.

Get This Look: Jenna's Bold Eye Makeup

The colors of this season are soo exciting for a makeup artist like myself.  Bright and bold, just like me! LOL!  Pops of color have always been a great way to play up your makeup. However, pairing a bold lip and bold eye without looking like a clown, can be tricky.  To recreate Jenna’s fun Bold Eye Look, follow these easy steps: When using bright and pigmented colors, it essential that you prime your skin properly to ensure the makeup stays put!  On Jenna we used the Glo Conditioning cream to hydrate, then immediately primed her skin with the Glo Face Primer, and more importantly, the Glo Lid Primer.  The lid primer ensures that eye shadow stays put.  It also removes any discoloration and mattifies the eye area.  Other popular brands for priming the eye before shadow include  Urban Decay’s Primer Potion and Two Faced Cosmetic’s Shadow Insurance  which can be picked up from Sephora.

I wanted Jenna’s skin to have that “airbrushed” look so I applied Glo Minerals Satin II Liquid Foundation with a dampened foundation brush and lightly dusted her face with Glo Minerals Perfecting Powder to set.

To give her a soft glow I applied Glo Liquid Highlighter to her cheek bones and down the center of her nose with a taklon fiber fan brush, such a pretty sheen!  I then applied a soft rose pink blush to the apples of her cheeks.

On to the star of the show..the eyes!  Any bright richly pigmented color will work for this look.  I chose a jeweled green.  Apply a pale highlight color (white or cream works best) to the brow bone and inner corner of the eye.  Next apply the color of your choice to the eyelid and just above the crease.  Pat on a little extra color to make sure the color is deep!  Use a clean crease brush to blend the crease and soften edges.  Use this same color and a smudge (or pencil) brush to smudge just underneath the lower lash line.

Next, line the upper and lower lash line. I used Stilla’s smudge pot in black and dragged the upper lash line out a bit to create a little wing.  Then smudge a little black shimmering eyeshadow directly onto the upper and lower lash lines directly over the cream, gel eyeliner.  And finally, add lots of black mascara!

For her lips I tried two different Lip Colors and both looked great with her bold eye.  First I tried Glo Minerals Lip Stick in Socialite, a pale soft pastel pink.  Second, my favorite, I applied Glo Minerals Lip Color in Treasure, a bright intense hot pink - loved it!!

Jenna said she loved her look so much she was going to have to plan something to do that night!!!

Article and Makeup by: Melissa Kinsey

Photo Credit: Elizabeth Garrard

Images Edited by:  Jen Duarte

Style Guide: The Perfect Pair of Sunglasses for Your Face Shape

Sunnies!! They are both a summer favorite to ward off rays and accessorize! When it comes to finding the perfect fit, style, and shape the options are boundless. But let's 'face' it, with such a variety to choose from, how ever is a girl to find the perfect pair? Lucky for you, we have a style guide to finding the right pair of sunglasses that best suits your face shape.

Aviator

This easy going Aviator is the perfect fit for a square face shape. The angular lines of an Aviator style soften the face and balance sharp facial lines.

Retro/ Wayfarer

Going with classic Retro or Wayfarer sunnies is a match made in heaven for a round face shape. The rectangular frames help keep your cheekbones in proportion with the rest of your face.

Round

Okay ladies with an oval face shape. The verdict is your face shape works with pretty much every style. With that being the case, switch things up and go for a funky pair of round sunglasses.

Oversize

For those embracing a sweet heart shaped face, prepare to fall in love with oversize sunglasses. Always keep an eye out for fuller/larger frames that balance your facial features. Round sunglasses are also a great option for a heart face shape.

Shield

A shield frame is a striking number that requires the defined oblong face shape. Avoid narrow shaped frames and choose a wrap around style (such as the shield) or oversize.

-Now that you have the perfect pair, the summer's rays will be the least of your worries-

Featured sunglasses: Olsenboye | Steve Madden

Photo Credit: Jen Duarte Make-up by: Melissa Kinsey

Summer 2013 Accessories Guide

Summer has officially arrived! Here are five essential accessories that you want to invest in this season. 1. A fedora hat keeps you cool and stylish.

2. Sunglasses are instant glamour.

3. A colorful scarf keeps things fun and festive.

4. A beach bag keeps all of your essentials stylishly in one place.

5. Nail polish in a bright color adds the finishing touches to any summer outfit.

Have fun accessorizing this season! Take risks with color and accessories. Summer is all about bright color palettes and fun patterns.

Happy Styling!

Rebekah

Where to Find Modest Shorts: Trendy Vs. Appropriate

Whether a girl is 5, 9, or 16 years of age, she can purchase the same style of super short shorts. Shorts literally can't get any shorter than they make them now.  With the combination of summer heat, the  fashion industry promoting, and clothing stores lining the shelves with these super short shorts, it's no wonder the trend has caught on. One might ask, "so what does a pair of  MODEST SHORTS look like?"  Well, when comparing a 0'' inseam to a pair of shorts with a 5" inseam, the 5" inseam would be considered more modest than the 0" inseam.  We can all agree on that.  But we know everyone's definition is different on the matter.  And truthfully, a modest length can't be based on the length of an inseam, because the height of a young lady affects where the short will hit on the leg.  With that being said, we are working to find shorts that provide more coverage than most of the current trends offer.  Since a mid length is still fun, reasonable, functional for all body types,  and provides more coverage, this is our starting point.

Questions to think about

When it comes to the length of my shorts, what is my boundary? Do I have one?  Should I have one?  When someone sets the boundary for me, Do I get frustrated? Why or why not?  Are there environments where longer shorts would be more appropriate than others?  What are those places and why would this be so?

A thought to consider

The fashion industry is not encouraging us to have healthy boundaries out of respect for ourselves and others as they continue to promote clothing that is shorter and tighter than ever before.  Simply put, there is a lot of competition for your bucks and they are doing every thing possible to get us to buy their clothes.  This encourages young women to care more about wearing what's trendy than what is appropriate.

Often what is trendy conflicts with what is appropriate.

But it is possible to have a healthy balance of both...

This doesn't mean the  Bermuda style is the only modest option!  (Although Bermudas are nice too.)  But finding a pair that reaches mid thigh (even for a taller girl, although much more difficult), would be... reasonable.  Shorts that are mid thigh do not inhibit airflow during the summer heat.  They work well with all sorts of trendy tops.  They look great on all body types. Wearing them makes a bold statement... It portrays the fact that just because something is popular doesn't mean you will wear it.  Also, there is no doubt that young women will look attractive in a mid thigh short, just as much as, or more than a super short short, and they are functional for most settings.

At Top Buttons we love a good challenge, and it is quite challenging to find modest shorts.

School Shorts 

If you want to get a head start on getting your wardrobe ready for the upcoming school year, here are our Top Buttons's picks for Fall 2013!  (They would be great shorts for summer too.)  We will provide more Modest School Options as we get into July!

• Striped Boyfriend Roll-Up Shorts
• Gap's 1969 Denim Bermuda Shorts
• Banana Republic's Tie Front Short in Orange and other colors
• Paisley Print Linen Cotten Shorts with 6" Inseam

A MODEST TIP:  Shorts with High Heels

When wearing high heels, the inseam tends to appear shorter as the heel raises you up and elongates the leg.  When wearing Bermuda shorts, a girl can wear heels with no problem.  Even heels with a short that hits mid thigh could look great with the right pair of wedges.  But you might consider wearing a low heel or flat when the shorts are borderline mid thigh or above, otherwise shorts look shorter than they actually are.

Work out shorts

Work out shorts are typically pretty short, or they are bizarrely over the top in length and amount of fabric.  But we found a few that would be TB approved...We would like to find some other options.  If you know of any, please comment below!

• Feel Fit Wear- Braid Workout Shorts with a 4.5 inch inseam
• Asics Women's Abby Long Short in Black
• Adidas Women's Tastigo Short
• Sparkle and Fade Biker Short by Urban Outfitters

Our Favorite Places To Find Modest Short Options: The Limited, The Gap, and Loft

Our Top Buttons Pinterest Account would be a great place to find some other ideas on how to wear shorts that are both current and modest!  We are as excited about summer as you are!  Be on the lookout for some changes coming to our website.  You will be pleased.  

Photo Credit: Beth Carter Photography

In Style: Geometric Print

Among the fashion trends for Spring & Summer, geometric prints have made its mark both on and off the runway. Geometric prints are noted for their bold and eye catching patterns: blocking patterns and tribal shapes are appearing on everything from pants to dresses and  handbags.

So what is it about these quirky patterns that draw our attention. For starters, geometric prints make for an easy focal or statement piece. If you are looking to stray away from the typical "pop" color garment and statement accessories, geometric prints are the answer. Styling with geometric prints as the focal piece is an easy and great way to spice up any outfit, whether it be a geometric pant or over-sized geometric tee. And if you are not worried about the styling aspect of geometric prints, give the trend a try simply for the FUN factor. Trends come and go, but geometric prints add such life and fun to any outfit! Prints range from sphere's to triangles, from tribal to sophisticated blocking and the color pallets are boundless.

Below is a styling option with a geometric pant.

Mint is not only a fun color for Spring and Summer, it pops against the geometric print.

Flats are always a go-to option with pants, but with warm weather on the horizon, sandals and wedges should be THE first pick!

Geometric prints are versatile and offer a range of possibilities regardless of your styling preference. So whether your style embodies a classy approach or a boho-chic, geometric prints may just be what you have been searching for this season!

Here are similar options:

Geometric Pant | Studded Tank  | Wedge Sandal |  Necklace 

Photo Credit: Beth Carter Photography