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

Sustainable Fashion: Upcycling Trends

Did you ever think that hand-me-downs would be cool? Well they are! Sustainable fashion is taking a huge turn in the fashion industry and there's more to it then just saving money. Let me start by explaining sustainable fashion: it's basically recycling your style! All of you thrift shop seekers know what I'm talking about!  Everything that's old is new again, right? Well why buy something new that LOOKS old when you can find an original? I've seen a lot of examples on Pinterest. From thrift store shopping to finding something in the attic your mom wore 30 years ago, upcycling (or updating a recycled item to current trends) not only is super cool BUT also earth-friendly! The shirtdress I'm wearing in these photos was handmade by women in the Honduras in a fair-trade shop using recycled shirts! And my adorable combat boots were found in a thrift store! Upcycled or recycled fashion is a great way to create your own, unique style all while helping the earth be a little less cluttered.

Fair trade? What is that?

When products are fair-trade they most likely were made outside of the United States. The companies that sell fair-trade create working environments that are proper and well-equipped for workers versus sweat shops that use child labor, pay very little and work employees 15+ hours a day in a building that literally makes them sweat because it is so hot. The bracelets I am wearing in these photos are made with paper beads that have been hand-crafted by women in Uganda through a fair-trade company called Bead for Life. Thanks to new laws in Uganda, many women are getting a second chance at life to develop skills to sustain their children and families. Jewelry like this is fun to wear and supports a great cause!

So whether you shop in your local thrift stores or buy fair-trade products, I encourage you to use your style to make a difference.

                                                                                    Dress | Boots | Bracelets | Beads

Guest Blogger: Casey Scheese

Photo Credit: www.thewaywewerephotography.com

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 Wear The Neon Trend

Colors, prints, and neon are huge for Spring and Summer. If you are apprehensive of neon, start small. Try on a neon necklace, scarf, purse, or a simple coat of nail polish. Accessories are a safe way to incorporate this trend into your daily wardrobe. Above are 6 key pieces to keep you in style this season. I have put together two looks to help you navigate the neon trend. Both mix neutrals with neon. The first is a chambray shirt, neon pants, earrings and a statement necklace, paired with a neutral purse and shoes. The purse and shoes help to ground the neon and break up the bright colors, keeping the eye moving and not landing on just one area.

Shirt | Pants | Shoes | Purse | Necklace | Earrings

The second is a sleeveless shirt, pants, and neon necklace paired with neutral accessories. The purse and shoes have an element of neon that ties in the look, while not being too loud. A solid gold pair of earrings and bracelet compliment the outift.

Shirt | Pants | Shoes | Purse | Necklace | Bracelet | Earrings

Neon can be worn many different ways. You can be as BOLD as you want to be this season. Start out by adding neon accessories and then move on to adding neon clothing. Experiment with different pairings. Don't be afraid to add in florals and patterns with neon. For more outfit inspiration check out our Pinterest board here.

Happy Styling!

Rebekah

The 6 neon accessories above can be found here:

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6

How To Wear The Wedge Sneaker Trend

Wedge sneakers have a tendency to raise many eyebrows. People usually love them, hate them, or they just don't know how to wear them. Today, I am going to talk to you about ways that you can wear this controversial trend and the perks that come with it. If you are looking to add a couple of inches to your stature, but you don't want to wear traditional heels, wedge sneakers may be for you! These shoes give you the height of a high heel with the comfort of a sneaker.

Wedge sneakers come in a wide variety of colors, with some having embellishments such as studs or diamonds.  You can find wedge sneakers on the market for as high as $600 or as low as $39.99 at places such as Tj Max and Marshalls. If you are new to the trend and want to try it out, I suggest purchasing a pair with a lower price tag. That way if you end up not liking them or they go out of style, you didn't break the bank.

So how do you wear this trend you ask? I have seen wedge sneakers paired with skinny jeans of all colors, leggings, shorts, dresses and skirts. The most popular way seems to be pairing them with skinny jeans or leather leggings.

 Shirt | Pants | Shoes | Purse | Sunglasses | Hat

A slim pant leg works well with this sneaker since they can often be a bit bulky. Try pairing your skinny jeans with t-shirts, sweaters, and jackets.

 Shirt | Pants | Blazer | Shoes | Purse | Earrings | Watch

Shirt | Skirt | Shoes | Purse | Sunglasses | Earrings | Bracelets

Wedge sneakers add a sporty edge to outfits. They are definitely out of the box, but they are a fun and stylish trend worth trying. For more ideas on how to wear wedge sneakers check out our Top Button's Pinterest board here.

Happy Styling,

Rebekah

*Here are links to the wedge sneakers pictured at the beginnings of the article.

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6

Color Pop: Trending Spring's Favorite Colors

Spring Fashions are trending non-stop, but let us not forget the color trends that are bringing fashion to life: Cobalt & Monaco Blue, Poppy Red, Marigold & Lemon Yellow, Khaki, and Emerald, to name a few.

While selecting a popular color for an outfit may not be at the top of your list, pairing  the RIGHT colors is must for a successful outfit. Below are a few accessories that compliment our color pop choices.

 Torn between gold or silver accessories? Pick a necklace that showcases both. As for this look, the gold brings attention to the pop of  yellow while the silver offsets the outfit. If you are wanting to keep it simple, a necklace as bold as this is all you will need. And if you are on the adventurous side, play up your look with bangles and cluster rings.

 These cobalt blue wedges not only compliment yellow, they also pop against the grey.

 Below are similar pieces featured:

Dolman Cardigan | Top | Skinny Jeans | Wedges | Necklace | Ring

Photo Credit: Beth Carter Photography

Ways to Wear: Preppy in Pink

It is no surprise that pink is associated with girliness. What may come as a surprise is that by adding or altering garments and accessories, a preppy look can go from casual to classy or take on a unique edge.

In the photo above, we added a moto jacket to break up the softness of the look. Any garment with texture can break up an outfit, but a black moto jacket does THIS style justice. Here are a few jacket options:

1 | 2 | 3

If you are simply wanting to accomplish a preppy look, the button down is ALWAYS the way to go. Here we have a pant that correlates with the button down and a basic flat to pull the look together. Also, notice the necklace? We have it on the outside of the collar instead of hiding away under the shirt. A necklace with such detail deserves to been seen, so just tuck the chain under the collar and let the necklace do the rest!

Now completing an outfit does not always mean you have to wear the "whole nine yards". But adding a belt will not only dress up the look, it showcase a more classy approach to the prep style. So always remember, even the slightest change or alteration you make to an outfit can transform your look!

Button Down | Pants | Flats | Belt | Necklace

Photo Credit: Beth Carter Photography

How To Wear: The Arm Party

The arm party has graced the pages of countless magazines. It is fun, edgy, and oh so stylish! If your new to this trend, here are some tips to get you up and running. Start out with a watch and build from there. Gold is safe when you are first starting out, it goes with everything.

Next, add one thin bracelet and one larger bracelet.

*similar gold watch | love bracelet | *similar studded bracelet

You can wear this look or you can keep adding! A mix of chunky and thin bracelets work well together.

Another way to wear the arm party is to take a color from your outfit and incorporate it into your bracelets.

*similar bracelets

Try mixing textures in your arm party. Leather is a great option. Add a couple of rings and it completes the look.

rings | *similar leather bracelet

There are countless ways to throw an arm party, these are just a few pointers to get the ball rolling. I have created a pinterest board here to further assist you in creating this look. Forever 21 is a great place to build your bracelet collection. They are affordable and have a great selection. Target also offers "arm parties in a box" where you can purchase an entire look. Michael Kors makes a fabulous gold watch, but you can also find less expensive watches at stores like Target. You do not have to spend a fortune to rock this trend.

We would love to hear how you wear your favorite arm party! Comment below or head on over to our facebook wall and let us know! We can't wait to hear from you!

Happy Styling!

Rebekah

What To Wear On Easter Sunday

Haven't found an outfit for Easter yet? No need to worry! We have got you covered. We have taken the time to scout out outfit inspiration to help get you on track. Whether you want to wear a dress or pants, we have some great options for you. If you have your heart set on wearing a dress, the six dresses pictured above are styles that are not only adorable but, right on trend. Pastels, lace, and florals are all perfect for Easter. Not only that, but they are perfect for Spring. They are dresses that can still be worn after next weekend. No wasted money here!

If dresses are just not your thing, floral pants are a great option. Pair them with a peplum top and a blazer and you are straight off the runway!

We hope you are charged with inspiration and ready to put an outfit together that fits your personality and unique style! Whether you find styles like this in your own closet, your friend's closet or the store down the road we are confident you will hit a home run with your Easter Sunday look!

Have a happy stylish Easter!

Rebekah

Links to dresses above, left to right.

1| 2| 3| 4| 5| 6

Links to pants outfit:

top| blazer| pants| shoes| purse| earrings| bracelets

Mix It Up For Spring

Spring is in full bloom with vibrant colors and beautiful weather. It's a time when flowers and new beginnings blossom. As for fashion this season, why not begin trying new trends and experimenting with textures and prints.

We decided to take experimenting a bit further by layering a floral crop top over a lace dress. It is a perfect balance of texture and print. Because crop tops can be a hassle to pair "appropriately," this dress is a great solution. So whether it is styling garments in a new way or updating the old wardrobe, Spring is the time for fresh trends.

 Dress | Jacket | Floral Top | Purse | Bracelets | Ring

Photo Credit:  Moments by Jen

How To Wear The Collar Necklace

Are you a secret admirer of the collar necklace trend? Have you wanted to rock it but, didn’t quite know how? Well this is the article for you! Here are a few tricks to styling this popular statement piece. 1. Collar necklaces look great paired with crew necks. They give the illusion of being a collar, hence the name “collar necklace.” They can transform your average t-shirt or sweater from plain to chic.

2. Collar necklaces look great worn under a collar. They can be the statement piece that you were looking for to add that “little something” to your button up blouses.

3. Collar necklaces look great with layers! Pair a collared shirt with a crew neck sweater and add the necklace under the collar. Top it off with a blazer and it looks even more sophisticated!

Collar necklaces come in a variety of colors, materials, and patterns. Having a couple on hand to mix and match with your outfits is a great investment. They are an inexpensive accessory that have the ability to truly “make” an outfit. Want more collar necklace inspiration? No fear, I created a pinterest board devoted to the trend on our Top Button’s Pinterst account here. Enjoy!

Happy Styling!

Rebekah

*A similar necklace to the one pictured above can be found here.

Sunshine in Borås, Sweden

Spring is coming surely but slowly in Sweden. The most visible sign of this is the radiant sunshine that peaks through the clouds- on almost -a daily basis. The days are longer and people's moods are getting brighter. This time of the year is altogether joyful but always seems like a new phenomenon every year it comes. It's only now that I realize how long the winter darkness has lasted.

Ever since I remember, spring brings a radical change to the types of clothing people wear up here in the north. All of a sudden we move from very dark gloomy colors to brighter and happier tones. You can really see the transition and its impact on people's behavior.

I don't know anything better than to soak up the sun. Just recently, we really experienced some amazing weather here in Borås, Sweden. After many months of being heavily wrapped up in woolen sweaters and knits, I was able to grab a pair of open-air pumps that I have been waiting for so long to wear, paired up with a colorful top + a neat pencil skirt. This is a look I would normally sport back at my home town when going out for Saturday lunch with the girls. Sadly, though, I guess I'll still have to wait for better days to come. It's still a period when you really can't predict the weather. I guess it's just Scandinavia really...

Written by Sandra Eneh

(Sandra is a regular contributing team member for Top Buttons and has her own personal fashion blog too!  We are looking for other young fashion bloggers from around the world with a conviction for modesty in their styles.  If you are interested in being a guest or regular contributor, click here.)

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

Kansas City Fashion Week

Kansas City Fashion Week is a fashion packed five day event with a kick off party on Wednesday evening and shows Thursday through Sunday. I attended Sunday’s student designer show, which showcased the work of nine extremely talented, young designers.

I was particularly impressed by two, both in their teens: Elda Doamekpo, age 15 and Josh Herman age 17. At such a young age both presented entire collections of gorgeous garments on the runway. According to her bio on KCFW Elda says, “I hope to bring the idea of true beauty back to women all over the world and bring their confidence to a whole new level.”

The fashion on Sunday was a mix of classic glamour and urban chic. Each designer had a different presentation which showcased their unique design styles. Michelle Kleineweber of Little Shell Designs showed a number of dresses that were light and airy. Her polka dot dress was a favorite of mine.

I particularly loved Yan by Hannah Cusack.  It was full of lace and feathers. Her designs were beautifully constructed.

Kaity Rathman had glitz and glamour and it was divine. Every designer did a phenomenal job.

As one who appreciates the art of fashion, being on the front row of an event like this is truly inspirational.  No doubt this is the first of many more that I will attend!  Fashion Week is full of lights, high heels, breathtaking styles, interesting clashes of color, talented people, and a runway of stunningly beautiful people.  As with many fashion sources, there will be looks that might not fit with the Top Buttons Style.  But I left with tons of ideas from these talented young designers that I look forward to incorporating our Top Buttons Styles into.  These designers are making an impact, and at such a young age!  Many of you reading this article are young as well.  Don't think that your too young to influence culture. It is so true that no matter what your age, you can begin to walk in the direction of your dreams. Excellent job KCFW!  KCFW was a success and caused me to walk away ready for the next event.

Article by: Rebekah Miura  Photographs by: Reagan Miura

Not Your 80s Denim

Trendsetters beware! Shoulder pads and leg warmers have remained in the past but their denim counterpart of the 80's is trending forward! Denim on denim is a must-have look that is here to stay. Granted, denim from the 80's was all about the acid wash and matching denim from head to toe. The current denim trend is mixing denim pieces and washes for contrast. Pictured is a light wash boyfriend jacket paired with a dark wash skinny jean. Now it is quite obvious that the jacket contrasts with the jean, but styling different washes modernizes this 80s craze. As for the blouse, go for prints. Prints offer a bolder look to the denim on denim. Add a vibrant embellished clutch for a pop of color and a "men’s-like" watch to complement the boyfriend style jacket and the finishing touches are complete.

Boyfriend Jacket | Skinny Jean | Printed Blouse | Clutch | Watch | Heels

 

Written by Jenna Olinger

Photos by Moments by Jen

Erin's Closet Remix

Meet Erin, a DIY enthusiast from Kansas City, Missouri. Erin wanted a new look without breaking the bank. I was happy to jump in and help put together an outfit made up of her own wardrobe along with a few new items.

While chatting with Erin about what kind of a look she wanted, she said that she loved her summer dresses and would love to find a way to wear them in the cooler months. With this in mind, I went through her closet and pulled a dress, leather jacket, tights and some fun wedges.

Her outfit needed some polish so we hit up our local H&M in search of some accessories where we found a statement necklace and a fun, unexpected purse. We completed the look with a couple trendy bracelets and a gold watch.

For Erin’s hair, we gave her some loose curls. For her make-up I kept it light and playful. I did a cat eye, pink cheeks, and a nude lip.

Erin looks great in her new look! She had all the right clothing, it was just a matter of pairing them correctly and adding the right accessories. Erin is excited to get her summer dresses out of storage and back on the hangers.

*Below are links to similar items worn above.

Dress  |  Jacket  | Tights  |  Shoes  | Purse

Article by: Rebekah Miura  Photography by: Reagan Miura

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

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sailor chic ootd

Spring break is right around the corner, and we are loving the nautical look for Spring. It is not only versatile, according to Teen Vogue, but it gives you a simple and clean look. Pairing nautical navy stripes with a pop of color keeps the Springtime interesting and colorful!

Dress | Earrings | Bow | Purse | Bracelet | Shoes | Ring

 

#1 Oscar Inspired Trend

With the annual Oscar award show comes fabulous trends worn by celebrities on the red carpet. One of the most popular trends according to Seventeen.com seen this year was floral appliqué. The items shown above are visual examples of floral appliqué sweaters, shirts, bags, and shoes that can be found in your favorite department store, or store of choice. With this trend gaining popularity, you should have no problem finding something floral and spring-inspired to wear this season!