The Journey of Top Buttons Saint Pete
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From a Single Knock to a Community Mission
After two years of planning and preparation, Top Buttons Saint Pete has officially opened its doors, bringing the organization's mission of empowering young women through fashion and mentorship to Pinellas County.
The expansion was spearheaded by Sara Garas, who was inspired to bring the boutique and outreach program to Saint Pete after a life-changing experience.
"It all started a few years ago, on a frigid evening in February," Garas said. "My husband and I heard loud knocking at our front door at 2 a.m. Through our security cameras, we saw a teenage girl, soaking wet and shivering. She had climbed from the water onto our dock, desperate for help. We let her in, and she used our phone to call her mother. I will never forget the tears in that mother’s eyes as she embraced her daughter, whispering, ‘Thank you for saving my daughter’s life.’ That night, I couldn’t sleep. Could human trafficking really be happening here? In my backyard?"
That moment led Garas to research the issue, discovering that Florida has the third-highest human trafficking rate in the U.S. Her passion for supporting young women had deep roots—she previously worked with an anti-trafficking organization in Thailand, where she mentored survivors and helped them regain confidence in their identities.
"From a young age, I’ve had a heart for helping women," she said. "I grew up in Egypt, where women were often considered second-class citizens. But in my household, my sisters and I were always treated as equals. That instilled in me a deep commitment to uplifting other women."
Building a Presence in Saint Pete
For the last two years, the Top Buttons leadership team worked alongside Garas as she prepared to launch the boutique. Located on Central Avenue, just blocks from the beach, the shop is in a high-traffic area surrounded by unique retailers serving the downtown Saint Pete community.
"Sara has demonstrated the commitment, work ethic, compassion, and intelligence needed to execute the Top Buttons mission in Saint Pete," said Sarah Powers, founder and CEO of Top Buttons.
Even before opening, Garas had already begun making an impact. She hosted pop-up shops at the Restored to Dream center, providing clothing to young women rescued from human trafficking. She also spoke at local schools, including Indian Rocks Christian School, Keswick Christian School, Northside Christian School, and Ridgecrest Elementary, educating middle and high school girls about online safety and the dangers of trafficking.
When two hurricanes hit Florida in late 2024, just as she was preparing to open, Garas launched a wardrobe restoration project to help those who lost everything.
"We served 50 women who lost their clothes in the hurricane," Garas said. "This was in partnership with Reach St. Pete, ensuring that women in crisis had access to quality clothing when they needed it most."
Gaining Recognition
Garas has been working to build awareness for Top Buttons Saint Pete, participating in markets and gaining media recognition. The boutique has been:
Featured twice in STROLL Magazine
Covered by St. Pete Rising & St. Pete Catalyst
Interviewed on Radio St. Pete
Highlighted in Beautiful People on 10TampaBay
A vendor at Mezzo Market & Shopapalooza
A Boutique with a Mission
The boutique itself is designed to reflect Top Buttons’ mission, featuring gold racks, clean white walls, and a curated selection of high-end designer thrift items. Like the Polk County locations, young women served through the nonprofit will receive mentorship, resources, and quality clothing to help build their confidence.
As the organization continues to grow, Top Buttons Saint Pete is actively seeking team members and volunteers.
"If you're passionate about empowering young women, we’d love to have you join us," Garas said.
Top Buttons Saint Pete is located at:
📍 861 Central Avenue, St. Pete, FL 33701
🕒 Hours: Monday - Saturday, 10 AM - 6 PM
For inquiries, contact Sara Garas at sara@tbstpete.org and follow Top Buttons Saint Pete on social media for updates and upcoming events.
About Top Buttons
Founded in Polk County, Florida, Top Buttons is a nonprofit organization dedicated to equipping young women with confidence, mentorship, and professional attire. Through its boutiques and outreach programs, Top Buttons provides styling services, personal development workshops, and access to affordable fashion to help young women thrive.