Create an Eclectic Style from Your Own Closet

Ever wonder how some girls just have a knack for pulling together an outfit with pieces you would never normally pair together, but somehow the whole look just works?! Well, it isn't too difficult to accomplish this look because there is no one way to do it!

The eclectic style is all about creating an unusual look with mixing styles; therefore don't feel boxed in.

To accomplish this look:

• Mix prints, patterns, and fabrics

• Play with complimenting and contrasting colors

• Try putting together shades of the same color

• Pair fancy pieces with basic items, such as sneakers with a nice dress or a t-shirt with a frilly skirt

• With accessories, mix metals and size

• Having the right bag and shoes will pull it all together and give an intentional finish to your look!

The eclectic look can at times appear to violate some fashion faux pas.  But there is no harm in trying to upcycle old items with newer ones in a unique way. And if done tastefully, it can create interest into your personal style.

Morgan seems to do it right with creativity, personality, and class every time!

Menswear Fashion

A woman's role in the corporate world has come along way. Women continue to gain respect on a professional level, and now we are taking it to the NEXT level with a menswear inspired wardrobe.

Dress suits and close toed pumps have always been a staple for women in the workplace. Now, thanks to the heavy influence of fashion, the barrier between a man and woman's closets has disappeared. Everything from vests, loafers, and trousers are making their way into a woman's wardrobe (and we can't say we are not a tad excited).

Below is a prime example of a revamped 9-5 look. We stuck with slimming black trousers and a simple (but elegant) undershirt. *Keep in mind the camisole is for a profession, not a night out. Be aware of how low cut your blouse is.* Then there is the fun part, adding a twist to the original oxford and blazer. Both blazers are boyfriend style, but each offer a different look...the black is traditional and the muted grey adds a touch of flare. As for the oxford pump, it is close toed AND office appropriate. Add the finishing touch of a statement piece, a delicately molded, yet bold necklace.

For a more casual work environment or out-of office occasion, go for the classic button down and tuxedo pant. The rich blue button down pops against the black pants, and the tuxedo pant detail pays homage to it's original design. Add a dressy loafer, edgy clutch, and bowler hat to the mix and you are ready to face the day, in and out of the office! P.s. bowler hats are adorable and complete any menswear affect!

The challenge is yours for the taking. We dare YOU to try menswear inspired fashion!

-Jenna O.

*Links are suggestions, not exact items*

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.

#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

#TBT: Snapbacks

TBT: Part One

Hashtag Throwback Thursday (#tbt) is flooding the internet and social media today! So we decided to join in the fun and share a throwback of our own: snapbacks.

For decades, snapbacks have made a name for themselves, ranging from quirky colors and fan favorite teams. They have been worn by athletes, music artists, and celebrities alike. I am even positive that you too have worn a snapback, whether it was yours, or a friend's that you snagged for a photo opt in the hallways at school!

Fun Fact: These caps became popular because of the ability to be fitted [the adjustable strap].

Don't forget to #tbt your snapback swag today, especially if you rock a cap the "Fresh Prince" way!

-Jenna O.

Snapback | Vest | Tank | Jeans | Shoes

*Same brands, similar outfit*

Photo credit: Sarah Powers

Images Edited by: Jen Duarte

The Color Block Wedge

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

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

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

 

Top row (left to right):  1 | 2 | 3

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

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

-Jenna O.

Photo credit:  Sarah Powers

Images Edited by: Jen Duarte

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

Get the Best Look for July 4th with Overalls

Today we salute to the red white and blue! We count our blessings and celebrate our freedoms even though our fingers may be dripping with watermelon juice.

Amidst the fireworks, BBQ, and picnics stands a tradition that deserves a little dusting off, the true blue, DENIM. But to stand proud this holiday, we say "Redefine your Independence", and go for the overalls!

Even when the celebration ends, you will surely have other opportunities to showcase your patriotic side in these scarves: plaid | stripes | floral | American flag

The best part about overalls is that they are a top find at local thrift shops!

*Don't forget! Being able to adjust the length of the straps can solve length issues*

If you still are on the fence about overalls, go for an alternative such as a jumpsuit.

Denim Jumpsuit | Sleeveless Denim

Effortless hairdos are made easy with head-wraps (can be found in an array of different colors)!

So what will it be? The Grand Ole Overalls or a Jumpsuit we all Salute to! The choice is ultimately yours!

Happy Fourth of July!

-Jenna O.

Photo credit:  Sarah Powers

Images Edited by: Jen Duarte

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

How To: Tight Curls Tutorial For Prom

Searching for the perfect prom hair style?  Team member, Delaney, shows us how to get the perfect curls for the perfect night!  There are many products you could use to accomplish this look.  What products do you use to get your curls to hold tight throughout the night? Still trying to put together your total look for Prom?  Click the links to see our posts about  Prom Makeup &  where to find the best Prom Dresses!

Video by: Delaney

Where to find the Perfect Prom Dress 2013

Seriously, trying to find a modest and yet noteworthy PROM DRESS is almost as difficult as finding a modest costume at HALLOWEEN! So while it may seem impossible, trying something new or going your own route just might make you the bell of the ball. Prom is often associated with boys, make out sessions and after parties. There are plenty of magazines with an eyeful of content such as that to read. Our plan, however, is simply to give you some tips on where to find fun prom dresses so you may enjoy your evening in a way that honors your body and your values.

The question is, where DOES a young lady go to find the perfect prom dress these days? Ebay, a local boutique, renttherunway.com, online style magazines, or a department store? Most young women will spend hours, days, and maybe even weeks trying to find the dress that best suits her style. Maybe She'll virtually try on dresses from Seventeen's Prom Dress Gallery. Hoping to complete the look, girls then search for Prom Hair Styles, sparkle pumps, and makeup tutorials! It's too much to fit in one post, but we're aiming to get you on the right track and find THE look that represents YOU. A look that lets your lovely inner self shine through.

BORROW A PROM DRESS FROM A FRIEND

If you're not wanting to break your piggy bank, why pay money for a prom dress at all? Ask your sisters, your friends, your sister's friends, cousins, even your grandmother may have a little vintage number awaiting you. By asking around you might find a number of dress options to borrow for your special night. Aarika pulled together the Prom looks you see in this photo shoot. These dresses were from their own closets or borrowed from a friend.

A little side note to keep in mind: Height matters when you borrow a dress from a friend. If it's a short friend with a short dress, a taller girl might have to refrain. Unfortunately, even though these girls are super close friends, Amelia and Katie can't do much clothes swapping between each other because of the height difference.

You want to know where Amelia's gown is from, right??? It was actually worn on Glee last season. They took off the belt and buttons, chopped the tool off a bit, but it was THIS Betsy Johnson dress that was seen on the program. Betsy Johnson is known for the fun, flashy, and feminine kinda looks. Not all would be Top Buttons recommended, but this one is stunning. We found several dresses on Ebay just like this one.

TRY PURCHASING A PROM DRESS STYLE THAT CAN BE WORN MORE THAN ONCE

Katie on the right (in the picture above) loves classic, preppy styles. This gold dress could be worn after prom is over to a wedding, church event, or even a fancy dinner. We are ALL ABOUT buying PRACTICAL. Being able to wear a dress more than once is always a good thing when spending lots of bucks.

RENT YOUR PERFECT PROM DRESS

What if your friends don't have fancy dresses in your size or their taste isn't similar to yours? Try RENTING A DRESS! This trend is for ladies who want to wear high end fashions at low cost, and who would NOT BE CAUGHT DEAD in the same Evening Gown MORE THAN ONCE! We looked into this NEW TREND of RENTING Luxurious Dresses Online. There are several websites that offer this option. Online rental sites offer dresses at a fraction of the cost + free shipping. Would you ever rent a dress?

A TOP BUTTONS TIP FOR ONLINE PROM DRESS SHOPPING

When searching ONLINE for a fancy dress and a modest style that suits your body type, consider looking for a neckline that cuts straight across the front like the dresses on Ahna and Kenady. A straight, square or box neckline provides coverage for girls with more curves. The one shoulder dress often sweeps elegantly upwards to one side and in doing so lays flat across the chest. Enjoy your evening without a wardrobe malfunction, by securing the right dress for your body type.

Finding the right length can be challenging as well. Dresses are either long or super short. This Dress length hits just above the knee and is very flattering for all body types, especially on Kenady seen below.

FIND LAST SEASON'S DRESSES ON EBAY

The dresses featured in this post are fun, beautiful, and perfect for a fancy evening depending on your personal preference of course! You won't find these particular dresses in the store because they have been worn and passed around within this circle of friends for years. You know it's a good dress, when your friends want to borrow it! With that in mind, if there is a particular dress featured in this post that you like, try searching Ebay for one similar... It is the place to shop for used Prom Dresses! Search for brand, color, and size. Have patience when bidding, though. If you try and outbid too quickly, you will likely pay more for the dress than you originally intended.

BE BRAVE: TRY SOME "OUT OF THE BOX" ELEGANT STYLES

• This high low Chiffon Dress NEEDS A GOOD SLIP UNDERNEATH to your mid thigh, but it's one of our favorites!
• So YES, Let me prepare you... it's OUT OF THE BOX! It's the Brightest RED DRESS you've EVER SEEN!!! It's Noteworthy. It's Modest. It's Modern, and it's priced at 49.95!
• Maybe try a Dress with Beaded Embroidery?! Here is another sweet little number (with a straight, high neckline and knee length style) from H&M that meets our TB standard. It's striking and delicate.
• Anne Hathaway does it Her Way with a formal dress and MOTORCYCLE JACKET! Check out how you can shield your shoulders from the chilly air with an EDGE on Prom Night AND STILL keep the frilly flair.
• Or try buying only a FANCY SKIRT + pair it with a more casual top for a look that shows you are truly confident in your own style.

OUT OF THE 5 STYLES LISTED ABOVE, WHICH ONE DO YOU LIKE BEST? PLEASE COMMENT BELOW!

THE PROM DRESS STEAL: Grab this FLOOR LENGTH, ONE SHOULDER Dress in TEAL OR ANTIQUE ROSE from H&M for only 59.95! You could trade in the belt for something more sparkly to fancify the look even more.

We have created a Top Buttons Pinterest Board for Prom 2013. Check it out and let us know what you think about our recommendations. We would love to hear the details about your Prom Dress Search experience!

Now we didn't offer you makeup tips or hair tutorials yet... KEEP CHECKING back this week and Next for some more helpful tips to make your Prom 2013 better than ever!

Written by: Sarah Powers

Photo Credit: Beth Carter Photography

A Year Round Trench

Regardless of the weather or season, jackets and coats are here to keep you comfy and cozy. But when it comes to facing elements of the outdoors, a pea coat or hoodie may not do the job. So with wool coats, hoodies, and leather jackets off the table, the only option that will keep you warm and dry is the trench coat. Not only are trench coats fashion forward, they protect your clothes from deteriorating under harsh or rainy weather. So next time you step out into the cold, snowy weather, or pouring rain, keep the trench coat in mind...it will save you AND your clothes.

Now that you have incentive to add a trench to your wardrobe, the process of finding "the one" begins. If you are looking for a trench that is versatile through all seasons, stick to the usual color palette of tan, black, navy, and often red or other blues. Going for option number two would entail trending colors such as lavender, mint, black & white prints, deep corals, and any trench that goes beyond the standard belted trench, i.e. leather inserts, rubber, hardware.

Here is our take on the trench coat!

  Trench | Dress | Shoes | Handbag | Ring

Makeup Artist: Melissa Kinsey

Photo Credit:  Moments by Jen

Because it's not just for wintertime, church, and tradition...

Check out the About Us Section to learn more about Top Buttons.

To find out more details on how to purchase a Top Buttons Charm Necklace click here.

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

City Fashion Shoot Video

This video was truly a group effort.  It was directed by Mom Powers, filmed by Delaney, and edited by Taylor Murray.  While Lakeland has some great spots for photoshoots, we loved changing it up by heading over to the streets of downtown Orlando.  This shoot features some looks that we have already posted and some that are coming up in the next couple weeks.  Hope you have a great day!

A SHOPPING SPREE WITH PURPOSE

The team would agree that our favorite part of the Top Button's Project is being able to Give Back.  In addition to providing cute and modest clothing styles online for young ladies to get ideas from, we take young women on shopping sprees who would not otherwise be able to do so for themselves!  As our organization continues to grow, we look to offer the Top Buttons Wardrobe Makeover opportunity for young women across the country- and more often.  At the bottom of this post are details on how to collaborate with us on this project if interested.

This month we partnered with The Core; a youth group from Epic church in Lakeland, FL.   Anastasia Malone, the host who nominated the teen chosen to be on this shopping spree, began as a leader for The Core a little over a year ago.  She shared a bit about why she volunteers to mentor youth by saying, “I do it because I have a passion for young ladies between the ages of 12-16 to see, understand and grab hold of what God has called and purposed them to do! I just love that age in general, so why not take time out of my week to just love on them!”

As we have done with shopping sprees before, we took Deni into a shop and filled 2 carts full of clothing!  Choosing clothes for Deni to try on was a fun-filled, group effort.  As the shopping progressed, the “no’s” turned into “maybe’s” and the “maybe’s” turned into “YES!”  We did have to convince her to step out of her box a bit to try on a couple items, but once she put them on, the smile of satisfaction on her face told us how pleased she was.  We enjoyed sharing ideas on how to wear different pieces in a way that would express her personal style, work with her body type, and keep her essentials covered.  After a morning of power shopping, Deni went home with several items to create a new wardrobe with!  This sweet young lady came out of the store radiating with positive energy.

And off to Peterson Park we go for Deni's photo shoot in one of her new outfits...

When asked what her favorite part of the day was, Deni said, “picking out the clothes!”  She shared how she felt honored to have been nominated, and we felt honored to have been able to provide her with this experience.

Anastasia Malone is seen below on the left, then Kenady (our TB teen team member), Deni (shopping spree winner), and Anastasia Jones (our TB Give Back Director).

All shopping sprees are funded through donations given to our non-profit organization. If you are interested in donating funds or services to provide deserving teens with a Top Buttons Wardrobe Makeover, please contact Anastasia Jones-Downing at anastasia@topbuttons.org.

Written by: Anastasia Jones

Photo Credit: Shelby Danielle

Top Buttons Funny Valentine's Video: If All Else Fails, Just Eat Chocolate

This video was filmed while having our TB Valentine's Party!  The girls were asked to share about how they would be spending their Valentine's Day.  It turned out so funny that we just had to share it!  Hope you had a good Valentine's Week!  

Faux Fur and Pleather

Now where I live, the weather is hardly ever cold enough to strut this coat around day in and day out. But trust me, I am an opportunist. I wear this coat every chance I get. My favorite thing about this faux fur is how versatile it is. It gives a luxe appeal to any outfit but because it is a statement piece, you can style it for a night out on the town or take a more casual approach as shown here.

 

Although the coat completes the look, each garment and accessory helps tell the story of this casual downtown style. For starters, a basic solid tee is the perfect choice to balance the outfit. For the pants, be bold and go for a pleather pant. Pleather is a seasonal material so you definitely want to wear it while you can. Plus, it will give you an edge that your denim otherwise may not. Now for the finishing touches, boots are a must for an all day affair downtown. Any type of motorcycle or combat boot will work.  As for accessories, mixing metals is a must. I have never been one to mix match metals, but when it comes to pairing gunmetal with silver, or bronze with gold, I say yes.

Other than the fact that I am a proud faux fur owner, faux fur is not nearly as pricey as real fur. Also you won't feel guilty for wearing a real animal and right now is the best time to buy...faux furs are on sale!

Hat | Coat | Pleather Pants | Purse | Shoes | Jewelry 

Written by:  Jenna Olinger

Photo Credit: Jen Duarte  

BUTTON NECKLACES FOR SALE

All of our Top Buttons Team Members have one! This beautiful tiny button can be purchased in a vintage gold or silver for only $30! All proceeds go to support the mission of our Non-Profit organization.

• This sterling silver or gold charm was cast from an original button and then lovingly hand filed, sanded and polished by the artist that is distributing the necklaces to us.

• It measures 3/8" of an inch across and hangs from an 16" inch silver or gold chain.

It is both dainty and rustic.

Be a part of this movement for modesty by purchasing your TB Button Necklace now. Once purchased, you can expect to receive your necklace within 2 -3 weeks.

Also, you may contact us through our (info@topbuttons.org) email address to let us know if you would like to order one outside of using PayPal.

Options

Vintage Gold Silver

VINTAGE COUNTRY CHARM

Jumper Dresses are typically meant to be worn over a blouse. Even though the jumper dress isn't always available in the trendy shops, we feel this style could be worn by most body types year round! This Vintage Country Charm look is pulled off nicely with the plaid + consignment horse buckle belt.

Why not throw in some animal print? These Women's Mossimo® Vianca Tuxedo Flats work quite nicely with this outfit.

The Jumper Dress isn't easy to find. But our online search did yield some results! Etsy and Polyvore are great resources to find some of the more difficult items.

Click here to purchase this jumper dress for $30

Click here to buy this Bow-Accent Jumper Dress for $31.50

Stylist: Dana Roquemore

Photo Credit: Joanna LeMasters and Taylor Flumerfelt