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!

How To Make Your Makeup Last

When I was nominated as a representative for my college senior class Homecoming Court, my initial excitement was short-lived. It dawned on me: I know nothing about hair and makeup, however a team of fairy-god-mothers (**cough** I mean, friends) came to my rescue and made me feel like true royalty!

If there's anything I learned from this experience, it's that a little setting spray can make your makeup last through a long day!

One of my biggest complaints about doing my own makeup in the past was that IT NEVER STAYS, but thanks to the help of makeup genius Breanna Chapa I gained a little more confidence in my everyday makeup look.

Breanna began applying my makeup at 8:30AM, and when I washed it off at 11:30PM (about 15 hours later), it looked JUST AS FLAWLESS as when she first applied it. Her secret to longevity? Simple! She set it with a MAC Prep & Prime spray.

Of course, being the queen of thrift, I opted to look for a cheaper alternative. Let's check it out below:

While you pay for quality with the MAC Prep + Prime, the ELF Makeup Mist & Set is just a fraction of the price and can be picked up at stores like Target and Wal-Mart.

"I've had my MAC spray for four months and have only used about 1/4 of the bottle, so it's definitely worth it," said Breanna.

Being so impressed with the MAC spray, I was compelled to checkout ELF, plus I just couldn't turn down the $3 price tag! I've been using it for about a week now, and I really enjoy how fresh my makeup stays all throughout the day. It sprays on a bit thicker than a mist, so I wait a minute for it to dry, but other than that I am pretty satisfied with the results!

I would recommend BOTH brands, because this simple adjustment to my daily makeup routine has boosted my confidence!

I felt so good, I snapped selfies all day!

Written by:

Alexis Gauthier

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[Makeup Credit: Breanna Chapa] [Feature Photo Credit: Ashley Espada]

The Practical Bag Every Girl Should Own

I used to be an "oversized" handbag gal to the core. My purse fit everything I could possibly imagine within its expansive pockets, though I only used a third of the space. On a recent trip to NYC I knew I would need a more practical option to get me through the hustle and bustle of the city. Once I purchased a crossbody from Target, I never looked back. It's comfortable, lightweight and perfect for being on the go. I love being hands free! It allows me to easily get through the day without lugging my big statement bag around. Although, those definitely have their place too! Here are 6 crossbody purses that are all under $40 and all from Target:

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6

Crossbody purses are not just practical, they are ultra stylish. A bright coral bag can be just the pop of color that your outfit needs to really shine!

Hope you enjoyed this post and find the bag of your dreams!

Happy Shopping,

Rebekah

Photography by: Beth Carter (top image)

Don't Chuck Your Chucks

Annie's summer outfit incorporates two different tones of denim for a mix-matched yet casually put-together look. She threw a moto vest over a mint green top, paired it with cuffed jeans, and tied it all together with her classic white high-top Chuck Taylor Converse.

You can easily style a pair of these shoes by wearing them with any casual on-the-go summer outfit. These timeless kicks can be pretty expensive, but they last a long time and are incredibly versatile! So, let us help you find a pair within your budget!

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High-top Chuck Taylors Converse - Kohls - $55

These are authentic white high-top Chuck Taylor Converse, much like the ones Annie is wearing. The only difference is the red line detailing. For $55, you can own these!

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Women's Hazel Quilted Hi-Top Sneaker -Target - $35

If you'd like to save $20, Target offers quality inspired white high-top sneakers. These ones feature side zippers and quilted fabric, which adds an original flare.

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Jemma Hitop Sneakers - Cotton On - $30

If you don't mind paying for Australian shipping, Cotton On has GREAT look-alike shoes.

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Elisabeth Huijskens Photography

Just like always, we encourage you to do some price comparisons and even to do a little thrift-shopping or coupon-hunting for the best deal possible.

We give you permission to splurge a little though, because the white high-top Chuck Taylor Converse are a trend that keeps coming back.

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:

Blogger Style: Get The Look For Under $100

Boyfriend shorts, panama hats, and striped shirts are just a few of my favorite items for spring and summer. I absolutely love this look worn by style blogger Kat Tanita. It's perfectly casual, yet chic all at once. On a recent stroll through Target, I came across a few items that looked very similar to Kat's look. To my delight, the entire outfit was under $100. This is an amazing deal, especially since the Rag and Bone shorts alone from her look are $209! Although, I love  Rag and Bone, a cheaper alternative is always a plus. Also, there is a promotion going on now through March 28, buy 1 get 1 50% off clothing, shoes, and accessories. That makes this outfit even more affordable!

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your keys and head over to Target! Let us know if you score any deals!

Shirt / Shorts / Sandals / Hat / Sunglasses

Happy Styling!

Rebekah

Genesis & Jenny - A Fashion Feature

Genesis Rosario & Jennifer Suarez are two university students with a passion for fashion and an aptitude for adventure. We had the privilege to document a day in their lives out and about on a windy Tampa afternoon.

Get the scoop on where they purchased all the adorable clothing items they used to put their one-of-a-kind outfits together.

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The SECRET to Jenny's outfit is that her tutu skirt is actually a DRESS from Forever 21. Spaghetti strap tops aren't her favorite, so she cleverly paired it with a cute graphic tee from Old Navy.

"I decided to tie a knot on the side to tone down the look," says Jenny.

Her Peep-Toe shoes, gifted Silver Necklace, and Stacked Pearl Bracelets are all from Forever 21 also!

"I love the look because it's super girly but it's versatile enough to make it a little less dressy simply by pairing it with a tee," Jenny adds.

To see more of Jenny's style and read about what runs through her mind, check out her blog here!

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"My outfit is a really comfy and neutral combination," says Genesis.

She wears a Black Leather Jacket from Forever 21 that features zippered pockets with a silky inner lining!

  Her cargo green pants were purchased from Aeropostale and also have zipper embellishments, which make the ends of the pants adjustable. Similar pants can also be found at Kohls.

Genesis has an extraordinary eye for thrift-shopping! Both her floral statement necklace and her striped top were from the thrift store!

 "I got the Striped shirt from Goodwill and it has half-long sleeves. Its pretty soft and it has black ruffles at the end, making it look super girly," explains Genesis.

 Last but not least are her dark brown Chelsea Boots from Target. 

"The small heel makes it comfortable to walk and wear all day long," Genesis raves!

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We hope you've enjoyed seeing how these two ladies styled their outfits. If anything you saw in this article inspired a purchase or outfit choice, make sure to COMMENT BELOW or tag us in a picture on Instagram.

Whether it's throwing around some confetti, traveling to a new city, or having a spontaneous photo shoot like these two ladies, we encourage you to go out and do something that brings you JOY!

Black Friday 2014

Black Friday is THE one day a year that all shoppers look forward to. To assure that you don't miss out on any sales or deals, we've searched the internet high and low to make 2014 the BEST Black Friday experience.

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Websites:

1. BlackFriday.com This website makes shopping easy with an app that is available on both iPhones and Androids. Some of its features include: a Wishlist on the Go, the ability to Find the Best Deals, and the selection of Your Favorite Stores ... ALL at your fingertips.
2.  bfads.net This website provides a list of ads from local stores such as Amazon, Best-Buy, Khol's, Sears, Target, and more. It even provides up-to-date information on what times stores will be opening and closing on Black Friday.
3. RetailMeNot.com: This is an excellent website and app to have handy when looking for deals all year-round. It serves as an added bonus during Black Friday! It's constantly being updated with a forum of new deals and promo codes.

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Phone Apps:

1. Black Friday Slickdeals: Some of the best features of this app include the ability to set up alerts when a desired deal goes live, the advantage of chatting with other deal-hunters for advice and insider-tips, and special access to Black Friday information.
2. Shop Savvy: This app allows you to SCAN the barcode of an item in store so that you can compare it to prices at other stores in real time! Most results will even include reviews on the item too!
3. Your Favorite Store: Chances are that YOUR FAVORITE STORE has an app specifically designed just for your shopping pleasure! Go to the app store and search your store of choice. Why not get your deal and coupon information straight from the source?

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Deals:

1. Forever 21 is having a Thanksgiving One-Day Sale, with 40% off hundreds of styles! By visiting the link, they'll show you a countdown til the sale goes live. Chances are, they'll have a Black Friday day sale too!
2. Express is one of those stores you admire from afar but typically only shop at when they have a good sale. Black Friday is the prime time to score at Express. Make sure to stay up-to-date with their website and social media posts to see what sales are in store.
3. Asos is providing an early sale for up to 70% off, but they are also going all out for Black Friday AND Cyber Monday. We recommend signing up, so that you can be the FIRST TO KNOW about all their exclusive offers.
4. Target is the perfect place to shop because you can literally make all your Christmas purchases at one store. They have such a wide variety of items ranging from electronics, to grocery, to home decor, to fashion and more! Check out their Black Friday catalog online.

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We hope these Black Friday apps, websites, and deals make your 2014 Black Friday shopping experience more efficient and enjoyable. Make sure to leave a comment and let us know some of your favorite places to shop for Black Friday, and maybe even share your shopping tips too!

May the Black Friday sales be ever in your favor!

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!

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

Target is 'The One Spot' for All of Your Needs

Upon the entrance of nearly every Target store there lies a sectioned called The One Spot full of inexpensive knick-knacks and treasures. Believe it or not, they offer an assortment of beauty products, DIY project materials, and even fashion accessories. TopButtons has done the hunt for the must-have items so that you don't have to.

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Pictured above are just some of the items The One Spot carries. The selection will vary from store to store, but each one is worth a perusal. Some items come in travel-size packs or even sample sizes, which is the perfect dose when you don't want to splurge to try out a new product.

1. Burt's Bee's Intense Hydration Lotion - Most often associated with their Chapstick, Burt's Bee's is a brand to trust. It'll leave your skin feeling smooth and healthy.
2. Kwik Mani/Pedi Kit - This is both cute AND functional. Now you can carry all your manicure essentials in one compact case. The boot comes in a variety of prints.
3. Jergens BB Body Perfecting Skin Cream - This is one of the biggest beauty releases of 2014! Everyone loves their BB Cream, and now you can lather it on your entire body for the same effect. It's shea butter hydrates the skin, while its other ingredients add a shimmer and help with skin-strengthening.
4. Garnier Skin Renew: Dark Spot Treatment Mask - This NEW intensive treatment clings to your face and captures bacteria caught in your pores. You'll feel like a new woman in just 10 minutes.
5. Scotch Lint Roller - I'm sure you've been stuck in a situation where you've had lots of lint or dog hair on a black pair of pants. Fear no more! Scotch has a compact lint roller that will fit in most handbags.
6. Shout Wipe and Go - You no longer have to panic when you spill sauce on your white pants moments before an interview or important event. Carry these Shout wipes in your purse and they'll clean the stain right out of nearly anything.
7. Chevron Pencil Cup - This cute pencil cup comes in a variety of colors and is the perfect addition to dress up any desk or home office! (Our Fashion Cents Contributor - Alexis - has a floral one!)

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Two fashionable items that Alexis took home were a pair of white-framed sunglasses for $1 and a straw fedora for $3. Both items are super versatile and perfect for Spring. The One Spot also carries hair clips, headbands, and jewelry and handbags from time to time. Keep your eyes open for what your local Target may carry. Every trip is as affordable as it is surprising.

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Pictured above are some of the items Alexis saw at her local Target's The One Spot. TopButtons purchased the rest of the stock on those buttons pictured in the bottom left. We think they're as cute as button and perfect for crafting.

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To save even more money, visit The One Spot during a shift in season or holidays. A lot of their inventory is catered to the current and ever-changing events and seasons, so their stock is always changing. When they have left-overs on their old stock -- for example, right after Christmas -- they discount those seasonal items 50-70% off. With prices already so inviting, these deals are steals!

Feel free to comment below and share your Target finds with us!

Maddy and Her Perfectly Polished Style

Maddy Lynott is currently a college Freshman. Her sense of style is just one of the many attributes that makes her so charismatic! Aside from dressing cute and original, Maddy dedicates much of her time to ministry opportunities by volunteering with children at a local community and even going on global missions trips! In fact, Tiffany (from our recent post Trends with Tiffany: A Classy and Sweet Style) and Maddy are both going to Zambia this summer! Maddy's love for God and love for people shines throughout everything she does.

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Maddy's first look in the city was practically pulled right off Pinterest because it was so coordinated and put together.

She gave Top Buttons the scoop on where she bought all the items she's wearing, so we've done the web-hunting for you and have found similar essential pieces to accomplish a look like Maddy's!

Chiffon Blouse  | Maroon Skinny Jeans | Tan Riding Boots | Bangle Watch | Gold Belt

[blockquote]I love items from Target because they are like a copycat of J.Crew (but a lot cheaper), which is where I get a lot of my style inspiration from.[/blockquote]

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Maddy received this dress as a gift from a friend who originally purchased it at a consignment boutique, which offers such a one-of-a-kind and sentimental touch to this outfit.

[blockquote]The dress can easily be transformed into something casual or fancy with the adding of accessories and change of shoes. I love the hippie look of the lace and sleeves.[/blockquote]

To accomplish a similar look, here's some similar items you can purchase:

Dress | Leggings | Tan Riding Boots

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(From left to right: Tiffany Hammer, Macey Rikard, Betsie Amendola, and Maddy Lynott)

Finding the Perfect Winter Jacket

After living in the Northeast for 1 month of winter, I had purchased 4 winter coats and 1 jacket. This jacket was another fashion accident. In New York City, fashion inspiration is all around you. One day I was walking my normal route to work and saw this really beautiful girl who looked like she was on her way to her job. I saw her wearing this jacket. I politely tapped her on the shoulder (she probably thought I was trying to steal her purse). I asked her where she got her gorgeous jacket, and she sweetly said, "BCBG." My heart sank. I thought, "There is no way I can afford that. I was hoping she was going to say H&M!"

As soon as I got to work that day, I got on my computer and started to Google key words that might produce that jacket. I also scoured the BCBG website. Nothing to be found. Bummer. BUT THEN...

I found it. Last season's merchandise on ebay. I have a love/hate relationship with ebay and it's sometimes a hit or miss. This was THE only one I could find that was an exact match. Here is a similar one if you just read this and your heart also sank.

A good coat/jacket is priceless. This one however came with a price that I had to quickly talk myself into. My review of this jacket is that it is extremely well made and comfortable, but only stands about 40 degree weather and wind. It is also an amazing rain coat.

Jacket- BCBGeneration | Cardigan- Target | Jeans- Paige | Earrings- House of Harlow 1960 | Boots- Cynthia Vincent

Must Have Closet Item: The Shirtdress

 Every girl has a t-shirt & jean kind of day (whether we'd like to admit it or not). But having days that freshen up your look and don't require much effort, are not as far fetched as they seem.

The solution to an effortless yet chic look: the Shirtdress. And boy are we all smiles over this "easy going" apparel choice.

Chunky accessories such as this coral necklace are just as effortless as  shirtdresses AND complete the outfit.

Chain Link | Charms | Mint Tear-Drop | Two-Tone Beaded

Here are a few of our favorite picks:

Sleeveless Floral | Gold Button Down | Long-Sleeve Sateen | Rugby Stripes 

-Jenna O.

Photo credit:  Sarah Powers

Images Edited by: Jen Duarte