Our Top 3 Fall Wardrobe Essentials

Pumpkin patches, apple cider, light jackets and plaid shirts. Yes, that's right! Fall is well on it's way and we are excited to bring you this year's trends all season long. For those of you who want to prep your closet for fall, but aren't exactly sure where to start – look no further! We are here to help by bringing you our top 3 essentials. Start building your autumn wardrobe today! 1. The Long Sweater This trend is one of our favorites. Comfortable and classy - this cardigan is sure to keep you warm all season. You can find a similar style here at The Limited.

2. The Perfect Pair of Skinny Jeans A well-fir of skinny jeans are a year round staple. Experiment with different brands and find your favorite fit. Right now, we are in love with the high-waisted skinny jeans from Guess,  The Loft, J.Crew, and Banana Republic!

3.  The Neutral Bootie This is the ultimate accessory for every autumn outfit. Dress these booties up or down - either way, your sure to amp up your look with this stylish essential. Choose from a large selection at SoleSociety or DSW!

So there you have it, three fall wardrobe essentials to kick off the season! The thing we love best about each of these pieces is their versatility! Mix and match them with different looks to create your own style. Fall will be here before you know it, and when it arrives you will be ready.

Written by: Anastasia Jones Photos via: Pinterest

Our Favorite Fall and Winter Look of 2014 Video

http://youtu.be/zFbtgsGqM2M

Celebrity Street Style: Plaid

Plaid is a perfect fall trend, not only is it cute and comfortable to wear but it is also a timeless and versatile fashion choice. You can pair a plaid top with skinny jeans, shorts, or even a skirt. You can also find plaid in just about every type of clothing, whether it is jackets, skirts, pants, or shoes. There are so many ways to style it, which makes it a great item to have in your closet! It is also a popular trend among many celebrities and they wear it in all different ways. Take a look at how these celebrities chose to style their plaid.

Kate Bosworth's look is a bit grunge with an open button-down layered over a long sleeve shirt with leather boots.

(Photo provided by Elle)

Jessica Alba paired her plaid button-down with a leather jacket, beanie, and cute leopard flats.

(Photo provided by Glo Fashion Magazine)

Cameron Diaz dressed her look up by adding a tailored blazer over her plaid top.

(Photo provided by Glo Fashion Magazine)

Try out the trend and let us know your favorite way to wear it!

*Featured image of Reese Witherspoon provided by E! Entertainment

Trendy Tuesday: Don't Deny Yourself Floral Jeans for Spring

With Spring in full swing, it's the perfect time to rock some feminine floral jeans - girl, go ahead and show off your delicate side! Paired with a lacy top, or even some edgy darker colors, floral jeans are the perfect way to embrace the season and show a little love for the gorgeous weather, the bright sunshine, and of course the sweet-smelling flowers. To get to pumped and ready to go, we've got a few flowery jeans we love:

These floral brocade jeans from Forever 21 are keeping with the beautiful floral trend, without being too overly colorful - perfect if you're looking for a more subtle way to rock this look. At $25, they don't break the bank either!

These dark floral print jeans will serve you well this Spring - but don't be afraid to pull them back out in the Fall, too! They're on sale for $6 at JCPenney's, and you can't beat that!

These white floral jeans keep it light and pretty for Spring - and the bold red print adds a little extra edge! They're on sale for $27 at Neiman Marcus, too!

Another pair of floral jeans that are versatile for year round trendiness... These orange jeans from Urbanog are too cute, and only $15!

Lastly, we love the abstract watercolor floral print to these Pieces brand jeans found at ASOS! These are on sale for $17 - free shipping, too!

Stay trendy, ladies!

Trendy Tuesday: Spring Prom Dresses!

The search for the perfect prom dress is upon us... What kind of styles are you going for? Are you all about the glitz and glam, or do you rock a vintage vibe? In honor of the beauty of Spring, we're obsessing over bright and beautiful prom dresses. Here's a few we found that you should check out:

This sweet baby pink gown from Loving Dresses oozes sophistication... Not to mention the sheer top provides a little extra coverage without being too obtrusive. $130

This showstopping gown keeps it light for Spring in a beautiful light turquoise - and is also available in a multitude of other colors! Again from Loving Dresses, the 3/4 lace sleeves add an air of timeless grace and beauty. $170

This bold hot pink gown is full of sparkle and is sure to show just how pumped and ready you are for prom! The empire waist will flatter many figures, and the cap sleeves add a touch of modesty without being too much! $140

Talk about a princess dress! This modern day Cinderella blue ball gown can be your perfect prom dress - and you don't even need a fairy Godmother! $180

This BEAUTIFUL rose gold dress is feminine and fun, and is perfect if you're looking to shake it up by not wearing a floor-length gown! $124

We know this can be one of the biggest decisions you have to face during the school year... And we hope it's been helpful! Just remember: Keep it Classy, and Be You!

Trendy Tuesday: Mesh Details

Though for many of you it's still snowy and cold out, we're all anticipating a warm, breezy summer. You'll need something light enough to not weigh you down, but substantial enough to keep you modest and to keep away the chill on summer nights! What could be more perfect than some mesh accenting? We've found a few cute pieces that are perfect for layering, and will look totally fab this summer as you're out and about!

This mesh hoodie from Forever 21 is perfect cover to keep the chill off on breezy summer nights! How cute would it be over a colorful tank? $25

This dainty top from Forever 21 has a fun lacey front, and how cute are the buttons down the back? Thrown on a plain tank underneath, and you're in business! $25

This adorable mesh overlay dress from Forever 21 incorporates floral embroidery... who said mesh was only for workout clothes? $28

Speaking of workout attire... This simple t-shirt from American Eagle has cooling mesh sleeves - but who says it has to be a work out shirt? Throw on your favorite jeans, heels, and a statement necklace and you've got a modern & fun outfit! Bonus points, this tee is on sale for $12

There's so many ways to wear this cute trend to stay  cool for summer - just don't forget to stay covered too!

Loving this trend? Check out a few others you'll love too! Summer Scarves, Stark Black & White, Love 21, and Neat-o Neoprene!

Trendy Tuesday: The "New" Neoprene

When you think of neoprene, you've probably got a less-than-fashionable picture in your head: scuba gear. But fresh off the runway, and seen on celebrities everywhere, this stretchy fun fabric is taking on a new role in the fashion industry. We've found a few new ways to incorporate this trend to your everyday life.  

This neoprene sleeveless peplum top is perfect for spring and summer with its cool toned print. Find it at BlueFly on sale for $25

Again through BlueFly, we found this beautiful coral v-neck dress. The classic cut is enhanced with neoprene that hugs without being too much! $60

This simple neoprene sweatshirt is accented with a fun design, and is easy to pair with just about anything. Since neoprene is still cooling and breezy, it's good to go for all your spring and summer adventures! $27 on sale at ASOS!

Neoprene is also awesome for your gadgets too! Not only is the outside still fresh and fun, but neoprene cases are padded for protection and the fabric will resist letting water in! These can be found all over the web, but we love this print from Vera Bradley, for $38!

Loving these trends? Check out some of our others: Swanky Sweatshirts, Holographic Accessories, Smile-Worthy Shoes, and Love 21!

Trendy Tuesday: LOVING Love 21

Normally we use this post every week to talk about a trend or style coming up for spring and summer, but today we're going to talk about a line of clothing that is beautiful and affordable- Love 21. This line comes from Forever 21, and is formally called "Love 21 Contemporary" and on top of just being the contemporary line, it's also better understood by the fashionistas who love F21 as the slightly "bigger" line. By this we mean, Love 21 clothing is a half-size larger than the Forever 21 equivalent. But whilst perusing the website, the things we noticed were that Love 21 clothing is just a touch more modest. Of course, like it's parent line it sells crop tops and bodycon dresses, but other items that it sells - dresses, for example - are longer and looser fitting. So today we'd like to spotlight some adorable pieces you can find at Forever 21 - just look for the Love 21 label!

DROP-WAIST DRESSES

We're loving this upcoming spring/summer trend that is shying away from the form-fitting, uber short and constricting dresses of the past and looking forward to looser dresses that focus on the cool shape and style of the dress, and often the print and texture of the fabric, rather than focusing on showing off body parts!

This floral drop-waist dress is fun, chic, past fingertip length (yay!), and only $24.80

This lace drop-waist dress combines loads of spring and summer trends all in one dress! Chic black & white, lace (always in style), and an affordable price - $29.80

LONGER LENGTHS

Sick of mini-skirts? Unlike a lot of teen oriented retailers, the Love 21 line carries skirts that aren't super short - but also aren't maxis!

This cute knee-length skirt keeps it classy with a fun print, and is priced at just $24.80

This button-down skirt is perfect for spring and summer, but makes a great transition piece as well! $27.80

KOOL KIMONOS

Another trend we're loving at Love 21? Sheer, breathable kimonos. Throw one over just about any outfit and you've just added come culture, class, and comfort to your outfit.

This fun and easy kimono combines a few things we love - art deco style and chevron stripes. This beauty can be found for $39.80

This sheer kimono has a fun print - and we love the way it's paired with faux leather pants and a simple tee! $19.80

Loving these trends? Try some of these as well: Contrast-Collared Button Downs, Stark Black & White, Holographic Accessories, Bomber Jackets, Fun Sweatshirts, and Smile-Worthy Shoes

Trendy Tuesday: Stark Black & White

Seasons come and go, and so do trends. But one thing that hasn't changed is the stark beauty of a colorless outfit. That sounds weird, but you know what we mean! The contrast between black and white creates a beautiful, modern-yet-timeless effect that can help fill out your wardrobe without too much work. Wearing all black and white can also be a great base or platform to wear other funky pieces. Have some crazy Kelly green sneakers you've been dying to wear? Use an all black and white outfit to make those super sneaks pop! Same goes for any out-there accessory, from jewelry to handbags, scarves to makeup! Wearing a black & white outfit is a great baseline, and is so, so easy to put together!

And did we mention, black and white can be rocked in every season? It's true.

So today, we don't have any specific piece for you to try - but more an encouragement to stand out in black and white! Here's some ideas to get you started!

Trendy Tuesday: Cold-Snap Sweatshirts

We all own them, but usually try to avoid them like the plague: sweatshirts. For years, they've been seen as cheap, frumpy, uncool, and unstylish. But this Spring, with the continuation of cooler weather, we're giving you the okay - in fact, we're urging you on! - to wear sweatshirts. No longer are they plain and boring, these days they are full of all shapes, styles, and colors of fun prints, designs, appliques, and bedazzlement. We've found a handful from all your favorite stores - Forever 21, Topshop, H&M, and ASOS - that you're bound to love. So don't feel bad! When you see the temperature dropping, grab an easy but cute sweatshirt and head out the door comfy and in style! 1. Easy-As-Pie Prints

This Topshop find brings back the preppy cuteness of plaid but keeps it comfy for the chilly days ahead! $58

Another cute Topshop sweatshirt... This tropical print reminds us of summer! $58

This sweet Forever 21 find won't break the bank, but is sure to keep you styled through the chilly weather! $14

We're loving the stained glass print to this ASOS sweatshirt! $65

2. Cutesy Designs!

Not sure we can think of anything cooler than combining a geometric print with Kermit the frog. This Forever 21 sweatshirt will showcase the child in you, but still make Kermit cool as an adult. $23

Calling all inner-geeks! Let it out and show your love for superheros! This Forever 21 sweatshirt is all about Iron Man, but there are tons more just like it in different colors with different Marvel heroes on them as well! $20

This H&M sweatshirt is simple but fun with embroidery that gives the shirt a "puffy" look to it! $40

3. Exciting Embellishments

The embroidery on this Forever 21 sweatshirt is what makes it stand out. Pair this subtle sweater with colorful printed jeans and you're in for a fun & fashionable day! $14

Feeling a little edgy? The faux leather and short studs add intrigue to this simple black sweatshirt. $17

Unlike a lot of other embellished sweatshirts out there, this black Forever 21 sweatshirt ops to leave the shoulders bare of embellishment in favor of the lower half of the sleeves. How cute are these rhinestones?? Sure to add a little bling and shine a chilly day. $28

Lastly, we couldn't leave out this adorable ASOS sweater. Disney? Sheer sleeves?? Yes please! $56

Stay warm, lovely ladies!

And if you like to stay on trend, make sure you catch all our other Trendy Tuesdays! From contrast-collared shirts to bomber jackets, cutesy shoes to holographic styles, we've got you covered!

Trendy Tuesday: Holographic Details

Along with the typical and always popular floral prints, lace, and pastel colors that are staples for spring, a new trend is rising up with the flowers - holographic material. Sounds futuristic, right? But holographic clothes aren't just for the Jetson's anymore, it's for all of us. There are two ways to do this trend - go all the way, or just a touch here and there. For those of you who are all in on the holographic/iridescent trend, get ready because the sheen and shimmer of this trend will knock you off your feet.

Urban Outfitters is currently selling some pretty fun holographic woven sweaters that take the boring out of winter/spring transition pieces. You can find this beauty on sale for $70.

Another fantastic sale find - this ASOS t-shirt dress has super fun holographic detailing on the sleeves and hemline. Sale price? $22. Amazing.

This sheer Topshop shirt is perfect for layering, and the embroidered polka dots add fun iridescent shimmer in every movement. This little gem can be found for $64.

For those of you lovely ladies heading down the easier path of integrating this fun new trend through subtle details and accessories - we've got just the thing for you.

This holographic chain bracelet will add a little glitz and fun to your outfit, without overdoing the flashy new trend. Another sweet Topshop find - and only $13.

ASOS again saves the day with a cute little jeans belt just waiting to spruce up your everyday jeans & tee combo. At under $13, can you even refuse?

This sweet Deena & Ozzy cardholder amplifies the holographic material with its quilted detailing. Loving it already? Love it even more for its $14 price tag.

Whatever your preference, holographic accessories and details can fit into your style in a multitude of ways. Whether you consider yourself sporty, preppy, or edgy - that iridescent quality is sure to add a little sparkle to your day! Stay trendy, lovely ladies!

Trendy Tuesday: Smile-Worthy Shoes

With winter wrapping up and spring emerging, it's time to put away those over-sized boots and break out some cute flats that will usher in the happiness and warmth of spring - starting with your toes!

Adorable, right? Chiara Ferragni is a fashion blogger who has designed these funky mismatched shoes. Though each shoe has it's own design, together the pair add a fun and fresh detail that will bring any outfit to life.

Here's the catch - these adorable shoes cost a whopping $211 US dollars. Tears, I know. That was our initial reaction too. Luckily, this sweet trend has taken off and can be found all over the place (and on the cheap, too!)

If you've never heard of ModCloth, get right on out of town, because it is one of the most adorable online shopping sites in the world. Full of vintage and fun styles, ModCloth supplies us ladies with the perfect mix of modern & vintage attire! ModCloth also conveniently has a selection of flats that remind us of Chiara's - but for much less.

These DV8 flats are cute and colorful - and $45!

These Liliana loafers add a SUPER fun detail to everyday jeans and t-shirts - and at $38, your super power could be described as "super frugal"

Though much more simple than any Chiara flats out there, these adorable flats add the same fun of mismatched embroidery without being too crazy (hint hint: subtle Valentine's day reminder?) These simple navy blue flats are $40.

Whatever your style may be like, don't be afraid to let this fun new trend inspire you! (Do I smell a DIY in the air?) Whip out the glitter and scissors and make your own fun and sparkly flats - or splurge on a brand new pair from ModCloth!

Whatever you do, don't forget to stay trendy!

P.S. - Loving this trend? Check out some others - Spring Bomber Jackets, Contrast-Collared Button-Downs

Trends with Tiffany: A Classy and Sweet Style

Tiffany Hammer is a Pennsylvania-raised fashionista currently studying as a freshman at Southeastern University. Not only is she an amazing pianist, but her style is just as classy and sweet as her personality. Top Buttons had the pleasure of capturing two different outfits while Tiffany was out on the town with some friends. (Check back later this week for more details on their looks too!)

[blockquote]A gold watch is essential to any wardrobe. I got this one at CottonOn for super cheap![/blockquote]

[blockquote]My favorite article of clothing is the pink blazer from Charlotte Russe. I love taking a risk with a bold color that makes an outfit pop![/blockquote]

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[blockquote]I really like my lace dress from Urban Outfitters! Pairing a jean vest with a neutral color creates an Indy look.[/blockquote]

For a similar look to Tiffany's lace dress, make sure to check out our article featuring Zooey Deschanel's Look for Less, where she also wears a cute lace dress and some black tights.

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This is a sneak peak of some of the other styles from our Top Button's photo shoot that we'll feature in upcoming articles.

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For more insider scoops inside the lives of everyday ladies, check out our recent posts called A Winter Wardrobe with a Southern Belle, and a A Western Winter Look on a Budget

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Trendy Tuesday: The Bomber Jacket

Though for some of us winter may carry on for a few more months, it's time to start thinking about transition pieces and springtime jackets! Yippee! We can almost dream of putting away our chic wool pea-coats and heading towards warmer days! Coming your way this spring - bomber jackets.  (This Topshop number is fresh and fun for spring!)

But unlike WWII days, this retro look has stepped it up a notch. This spring look for bold patterns, fun prints, and exciting textures - lace, leather, satin, and everything in between!

Coming fresh off the runway from Marc Jacobs, Tracy Reese, and Alexander Wang, bomber jackets are ditching the old wool lining and picking up new sophistication with mesh detailing, perforated leather, and sweet silky prints - perfect for toning down a dressy outfit or adding a sporty (yet girly) vibe to daily jeans.

While we love designer pieces, and even these jackets found from J. Crew and Topshop (and who wouldn't?!) Who can afford the steep prices that come with them?

Both of these bomber jackets from Topshop (leopard found here, foil print found here).

Luckily, Forever 21 is forever there to save our wardrobes. With a plethora of adorable - and affordable - bomber jackets, this trend will not only keep you cute, but keep your wallet happy too!

This leopard print bomber is comparable to the topshop jacket seen above, but without the steep $160 price tag.

This fresh Geo-print bomber jacket is light enough to stay with you as the seasons change and the air gets warmer.

We're loving this fun twist on the bomber jacket - classic leather body, but cool, cute lace sleeves! Find it at Forever 21 - and bonus points for being under $40!

Stay trendy, ladies!

Trendy Tuesday: Contrast-Collar Button Downs

With winter heading out and spring beginning to blossom, it can be stressful to find pieces that transition well between seasons, are in style, and most importantly - are functional! Luckily, button-downs will always have your back. As we have all seen, button-downs come in all manner of cut, color, and style - and include a variety of embellishments and sleeve lengths - one trend we at Top Buttons are loving for spring: the contrast-collar button-down.

Like any other button-down, it can be dressed up or down - and don't shy away from statement necklaces or other impressive jewelry!

Dressy? Check. Silky? Check.  This gorgeous number can be found at ASOS, although at a steep $64 price

On a budget? We are too. This sweet color-blocked sleeveless top from Forever 21 won't break the bank at just under $20

Last tip for this trend? Buttoning it all the way to the top keeps the structure of the collar and shows off your stunning new trend (looks like Top Buttons is no joke!)

Have a lovely Trendy Tuesday!

Shopping on a Budget

Hello again! It’s Alexis with your latest FASHION CENTS.

One complaint I often receive from people who want to get good deals is that they aren’t willing to wear old clothes worn by strangers. The thought of someone else once wearing those clothes somehow grosses them out, and while for some, that’s a reasonable excuse not to thrift shop, I personally think it adds character to the clothes. On a similar note, today I’m going to enlighten you all on some stores where you can shop for brand new clothes that are still VERY affordable. My effort is to appease those of you who want to dress both affordably and fashionably, but aren’t willing to wear used clothing. Here are some of my favorite affordable retail stores:

 1. CottonOn

When I first started college, I naturally visited the nearest mall soon after. On that first mall trip is when I discovered CottonOn. While I was there, I purchased two dresses for $5 a piece and was blown away by their prices and style! At the time, they didn’t have an online American store, but I quickly signed up for their mailing list so I would be the first to know when they did.

Fortunately enough, they launched their online shopping about a year ago, and their online selection and prices are even better. All of their clothes are super versatile and comfortable because they are made with cotton. To shop online visit CottonOn.com and make sure to check out their sections called “Nothing Over $5” and “Nothing Over $10”.

2. MadRag

I discovered this store while I was on vacation. We had extended our stay for a few extra days and I hadn’t packed enough clothes to last the trip, so I walked into MadRag with $25 and walked out with two pairs of shorts and three shirts. Unfortunately this store doesn’t offer online shopping, but if you visit their site, you can find a location near you. http://10spotplus.com/storelocator.aspx

3. TJ Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls

These are three stores I thoroughly adore. Their collection of clothing is very wide, with selections for everyone in the family.  They each sell name brand clothing at discounted prices. Brands like American Eagle, Coach, Nike, Calvin Klein, and more can be spotted on their racks. I’ve bought everything from Prom dresses, to church dresses, to work out clothes, and even to cute casual shoes.

A great tip that saves me tons of money is that I go straight to the sales racks before even sifting through any other sections of these stores.

Ross  |  TJMaxx  |  Marshalls

4. Wal-Mart

Wal-Mart Juniors Link 

Many people overlook Wal-Mart as a place for fashion, but every year for Christmas and my birthday my grandpa would give me a $25 gift card and I grew to love it more and more each time. Recently, camo skinny pants were on my fashion must-have list. Most places would sell them for at least $30, but I found them at Wal-Mart for $16.88. Here’s some ideas of things you can get at Wal-Mart.

  Floral Peplum Top

Check out the concept of this bargain! You can mix and match fashionable tops with bottoms to get an affordable and adorable bundle deal!

Mix-n-Match Denim Shirt and Colored Pants Bundle Deal

Now you know to never underestimate a store’s potential to carry cute clothes!  Just think about the next time someone compliments your clothes and asks where you got it, and you can confidently say Wal-Mart or CottonOn or any of the other stores many people overlook. You’ll know you scored a great deal.

For MORE FASHION CENTS POSTS CLICK HERE!

Thank you all for tuning in to read yet another blog about affordable fashion. Remember to comment on this post with your thoughts or ideas on this article or suggestions on future articles.

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

DIY: UPCYCLING A DRESS INTO A TOP

Shorts, dresses, shirts, shoes! We grow out of our clothes but sometimes are still in love with them. Well, Miss Danielle has a solution to upcycling our dresses into shirts.

Now while there are no green thumb-like requirements, you will need to have access to a sewing machine* (or be handy with a needle and thread). Other staples include:

• Dress(es)
• Measuring tape/ Ruler
• Scissors
• Thread
• Sewing machine*/ Needle

First off, select a dress that you are willing to cut up. It could be a dress that has shrunk or is too short, or it could be a dress that you have had for years and want to bring to life. Next you will need to measure the length you want the shirt to be. You will then cut the garment leaving you with the start of your new top! *Before cutting the garment, keep in mind that sewing the hem will change the desired length of the top.* Once you have scrapped the remains of your OLD dress you will then measure out the length of the hem. Using a sewing machine is the quickest way to hem a garment, but the good ole fashion way with a needle and thread will give you similar end results. If you are NOT capable with either option, take your garment to a local seamstress or tailor. This option is stress free and most shops will charge no more than fifteen dollars. For a DIY post on How To make a Chevon Knuckle Ring, click here!

So next time you go to toss an old dress or even your JEWELRY, stop and think of the option of upcycling!

-Jenna O.

--Tops featured above are the result of upcycling--

Makeup by: Ashley Carrel

Photo credit: Sarah Powers

Images Edited by: Jen Duarte

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

It’s Not That Black and White

  I’ve been checking out these stunners for far too long and finally had to lay my hands on them.  I’m not really the type to run after every single trend out there but you have to love print trousers.  This black and white Aztec printed trouser is a statement in itself.  It would simply look just as amazing with a simple black top lightly accessorized with a few bangles and a necklace. However, if you decide to play on a bright colored top, you might choose to keep the accessorizing minimal. Chances are, you've already created a nice work of art.! I just couldn't resist adding my oversized DIY bow as a cherry on top of it all. It’s not that black and white. Just have fun and play around with the look!

You can find similar items by clicking these links.   Pants | Sweater

Post by: Sandra Eneh