Rebekah's OOTD: Casual Chic

Oh, how I love a good pair of boyfriend jeans, a casual top, and heels! It is always fun to add an element of surprise to an outfit, such as a shiny statement necklace paired with a plain t-shirt or heels worn with torn jeans. Casual chic is definitely my cup of tea these days!

I am curious to know what your style is. Leave a comment below and let me know what looks you are loving this season!

 Happy Styling,

Rebekah

Links to outfit pictured above:

Sweatshirt (similar) | Jeans | Shoes | Purse (similar) | Necklace | Watch | Bracelet (similar) | Sunglasses

#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 Perfect Summer Hat

Fedora hats are all the rage this summer and for good reason! They have the ability to make the simplest of outfits instantly chic. You can wear them with just about any of your summer wardrobe staples: dresses, skirts, shorts, and pants. They also look great with a number of hairstyles, leave your hair down, put it in a side braid, or wear it in a low side bun. Fedoras are a no-fuss accessory that can be worn with so many different looks. For more style inspiration check out our Pinterest board here. If you have a favorite way to wear your fedora, let us know in the comments below!

Happy Styling

Rebekah

*Links to above images left to right.

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5

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

Jewelry Crush

Who doesn't love a statement necklace?! They can take an ordinary outfit and make it extra-ordinary. I have searched high and low for necklaces like the 6 above and I was always left disappointed when I saw the price tag. That is until I met BaubleBar , a jewelry store based out of New York City, with an an on-line store that sells gorgeous, on-trend jewelry that happens to be reasonably priced too! The company offers advice on how to wear the latest jewelry trends, has a team of on-call stylists to assist customers with picking out the perfect accessories, and their site offers a gallery of pictures from people who have purchased the items showing how they styled them...genius! With free shipping and free returns BaubleBar is at the top of my list for on-line jewelry shopping!  

Happy Styling,

Rebekah

*Links to above necklaces.

1 | 2 |  3 | 4 | 5 | 6

Get This Look: Jenna's Bold Eye Makeup

The colors of this season are soo exciting for a makeup artist like myself.  Bright and bold, just like me! LOL!  Pops of color have always been a great way to play up your makeup. However, pairing a bold lip and bold eye without looking like a clown, can be tricky.  To recreate Jenna’s fun Bold Eye Look, follow these easy steps: When using bright and pigmented colors, it essential that you prime your skin properly to ensure the makeup stays put!  On Jenna we used the Glo Conditioning cream to hydrate, then immediately primed her skin with the Glo Face Primer, and more importantly, the Glo Lid Primer.  The lid primer ensures that eye shadow stays put.  It also removes any discoloration and mattifies the eye area.  Other popular brands for priming the eye before shadow include  Urban Decay’s Primer Potion and Two Faced Cosmetic’s Shadow Insurance  which can be picked up from Sephora.

I wanted Jenna’s skin to have that “airbrushed” look so I applied Glo Minerals Satin II Liquid Foundation with a dampened foundation brush and lightly dusted her face with Glo Minerals Perfecting Powder to set.

To give her a soft glow I applied Glo Liquid Highlighter to her cheek bones and down the center of her nose with a taklon fiber fan brush, such a pretty sheen!  I then applied a soft rose pink blush to the apples of her cheeks.

On to the star of the show..the eyes!  Any bright richly pigmented color will work for this look.  I chose a jeweled green.  Apply a pale highlight color (white or cream works best) to the brow bone and inner corner of the eye.  Next apply the color of your choice to the eyelid and just above the crease.  Pat on a little extra color to make sure the color is deep!  Use a clean crease brush to blend the crease and soften edges.  Use this same color and a smudge (or pencil) brush to smudge just underneath the lower lash line.

Next, line the upper and lower lash line. I used Stilla’s smudge pot in black and dragged the upper lash line out a bit to create a little wing.  Then smudge a little black shimmering eyeshadow directly onto the upper and lower lash lines directly over the cream, gel eyeliner.  And finally, add lots of black mascara!

For her lips I tried two different Lip Colors and both looked great with her bold eye.  First I tried Glo Minerals Lip Stick in Socialite, a pale soft pastel pink.  Second, my favorite, I applied Glo Minerals Lip Color in Treasure, a bright intense hot pink - loved it!!

Jenna said she loved her look so much she was going to have to plan something to do that night!!!

Article and Makeup by: Melissa Kinsey

Photo Credit: Elizabeth Garrard

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

Summer Sequins

This summer, sequins are making their debut. This trend is proving that glamour isn't just reserved for the Holidays or red carpet events, it can be incorporated into the everyday outfit.  

1 | 2 | 3 (similar)

There are numerous ways to style sequin accessories and clothing. You can pair them with everything from distressed denim to leather! Sequin accessories can be worn day or night. They are the perfect addition to your summer wardrobe.

1 | 2 | 3 

Sequin jackets look great dressed up or down. A popular way to style them is by pairing them with a graphic tee or striped shirt.

1| 2 | 3

Sequin pants add unexpected sparkle to an outfit. They really shine when they are paired with a blazer and heels.

Sequins are a trend that can carry us through summer right into the cooler months. No matter what season they are in, they always makes a statement.

What statement will you be making this summer? Will it include sequins? Let us know in the comments below. We look forward to hearing from you!

Happy Styling,

Rebekah

*The following are links to the top picture in this post.

jean shirt  (similar)| skirt | shoes | necklace

Sustainable Fashion: It’s a state of mind

Lately there’s been lot of discussion around Eco fashion and sustainable consumption. The latter topic doesn't merely focus on the fashion industry, but is also referred to when considering other industries like the food industry, for example. Previously we discussed on Top Buttons about up cycling trends, a phenomenon that has become a trend in itself. It is both fun and helps to extend the life-cycle of garments. Another important aspect to consider is our patterns of behavior when it comes to consuming clothes. Do we buy for the thrill or do we buy to meet a need?

To start with, I think that in one or several stages of life, many of us have fallen victim to buying or acquiring stuff as a product of social pressure and the desire to conform and be a part of the “in crowd”.  Also perhaps we purchased for therapeutic reasons of getting something new to feel better about one’s self. It seems as though the western consumer mentality leans towards the famous adage: He who has the most toys wins. This mentality has given rise to the predominant culture of mass consumption which in turn has a great impact on endangering our environment and the lives of garment producers working to meet our unending desire for MORE. You can read about the conditions which garments are often produced under by reading this article, Sweatshops still make your clothes.

So what can we take from this? Well, how about thinking about what motivates you to buy in the first place. There’s nothing wrong with loving fashion and following new trends. But in the end, making use of what you already have and being the best steward of it, can have a big impact in shaping consumer culture in a positive way. It’s all about our state of mind. If you can be happy and content with the things that you already have and maximize the benefit of their use, you may find yourself loosing the need to acquire slightly varying replicas of what you already have.

Clearly, sustainable fashion is a wide and vast topic that can and should be covered in greater depth. With this being said, I hope to write more on this is the future. Till then I leave you with this passage:

For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we (have the basics of) food and clothing, we will (and should) be content with that. (1 Timothy 6:7- 8)

- Sandra

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

Style Guide: The Perfect Pair of Sunglasses for Your Face Shape

Sunnies!! They are both a summer favorite to ward off rays and accessorize! When it comes to finding the perfect fit, style, and shape the options are boundless. But let's 'face' it, with such a variety to choose from, how ever is a girl to find the perfect pair? Lucky for you, we have a style guide to finding the right pair of sunglasses that best suits your face shape.

Aviator

This easy going Aviator is the perfect fit for a square face shape. The angular lines of an Aviator style soften the face and balance sharp facial lines.

Retro/ Wayfarer

Going with classic Retro or Wayfarer sunnies is a match made in heaven for a round face shape. The rectangular frames help keep your cheekbones in proportion with the rest of your face.

Round

Okay ladies with an oval face shape. The verdict is your face shape works with pretty much every style. With that being the case, switch things up and go for a funky pair of round sunglasses.

Oversize

For those embracing a sweet heart shaped face, prepare to fall in love with oversize sunglasses. Always keep an eye out for fuller/larger frames that balance your facial features. Round sunglasses are also a great option for a heart face shape.

Shield

A shield frame is a striking number that requires the defined oblong face shape. Avoid narrow shaped frames and choose a wrap around style (such as the shield) or oversize.

-Now that you have the perfect pair, the summer's rays will be the least of your worries-

Featured sunglasses: Olsenboye | Steve Madden

Photo Credit: Jen Duarte Make-up by: Melissa Kinsey

Go Glam With Metallics

Metallics are a simple way to incorporate a little glitz into your everyday outfit. It can be as simple as adding a metallic clutch to your ensemble or going bold with a metallic pencil skirt.  

Shirt (similar) | Jeans (similar) | Necklace | Shoes (similar) | Purse

The key to wearing metallics is to think of them as neutrals. You can swap out your tan accessories for gold, silver, or even rose gold. They add depth and texture to an outfit and are the perfect way to turn a drab outfit into fab.

Will you go glam with Metallics this Summer? Let us know in the comments below, we look forward to hearing from you!

Happy Styling,

Rebekah

*Metallic accessories above:

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6

Donate Your Jewelry and Help Prevent Human Trafficking

With your BROKEN, unused, or unwanted jewelry, YOU can help prevent human trafficking in the Dominican Republic. Top Buttons is working with an organization called FIGHT Ministries (Freeing Individuals from the Grasp of Human Trafficking) based in Jarabacoa, which is in the center of the D.R.

Their purpose is to restore hope, healing, security and safety to the children of the Dominican Republic who live in an oppressed society where human slavery is rampant. As they move towards gaining the means to rescue and rehabilitate young women, they are currently working diligently on prevention.

TRAFFICKING IN THE D.R.

In a 2009 report from the U.S. State Dept for Trafficking in Persons, the D.R. is ranked 4th in the world as a source, transit, and destination country for men, women, and children trafficked for the purposes of commercial sexual exploitation and forced labor. Also noted was the fact that parents often push their children into prostitution to help support the family. You can read more about the difficulties in assessing the actual number of Haitian and Dominican children being trafficked by going to this link at the UNICEF website.

THE CULTURE

Naomi Ostberg, one of the FIGHT Ministry's Team Members, described the people of the Dominican by saying, "They are loving, generous, and don't seem to meet a stranger. Unfortunately, they have a very strict history of religion which doesn't include a relationship with Jesus. Church is seen as a place one goes weekly to hear a set of rules, not a place for worship and personal growth. Religion can't save or fill the void within us all, only Christ can. We see young women reaching out for attention seeking to fill that void. Along with the challenges of Human Trafficking, sex is accepted here for even the very young. Sexiness with clothing and in attitude is commonly a dictator of who is considered beautiful and is encouraged in order to attract a possible rich spouse. Teaching young women to understand the importance of dressing with proper fitting clothes in order to protect themselves from traffickers, is a part of the FIGHT Ministries prevention plan along with teaching other life skills. These girls are lovely. We want them to know who they are on the inside is what makes them beautiful." She continued by saying, "We are working to show young girls the love of one man, Jesus, is more than enough. He is our Savior. He is our hope. Helping young girls understand this principle will be a stepping stone to encourage change and will help them overcome the challenges they face."

NEW CREATIONS JEWELRY

"New Creations" was started as a part of their fight against human traffickers in this country. As they teach young girls in the community how to make and sell jewelry, they are less likely to believe the lies of the traffickers who try to lure them into slavery with promises of financial security.

FIGHT ministries has partnered with a local church in Jarabacoa. It is through this church that they have found some solid women in the community who their organization has taught the skill of making jewelry. Soon these women will be teaching this trade to their daughters and other children (mostly female) in their neighborhoods.

They want to "re-make" old and broken jewelry into "new creations". Just like Christ has done with us. Of course making money to feed one's family is a must! But the benefits of starting this project are so much bigger than simply putting change in their pockets. They want to equip these women to fight off their intruders with knowledge, a solid community, with an activity that will keep kids off the streets, and see God's provision at work in their lives as they strive to honor Him!

Did you ever imagine that your UNWANTED jewelry whether old or new could be upcycled to prevent Human Trafficking?! We all debate what to do with our tarnished, broken, or unworn jewelry pieces. Please don't throw them away! They have requested:

*buttons, gems, or beads

*broken, new, unwanted, or unworn jewelry

*jewelry making supplies (like clasps)

*any other small items that could be used for jewelry making

We will be collecting jewelry pieces during July and August! Please send items to our office

256 North Kentucky Ave, Lakeland, Florida, 33801, Suite #105

Soon Top Buttons will take a few team members to the Dominican and deliver all the jewelry pieces we have collected. If you have any questions or would like to read more about FIGHT ministries. Please check out their website at fightministries.org.

The images are of Naomi Ostberg and some children of Jarabacoa. Naomi is one of the 5 team members who founded FIGHT Ministries. She was an ESE teacher in central Florida before she and her husband (who had his own construction business) felt called to leave it all one year ago and move to the Dominican Republic to help fight against human trafficking.

One Piece Bathing Suits: Summer 2013

One piece bathing suits are taking center stage this year. They are the “it” suits of the season. From classic to modern styles, you are sure to find a suit that fits your taste. Peplum is a style that is fun, flattering, and can suit many body shapes.

 1 | 2 | 3

Prints and patterns add a modern and playful twist.

 1 | 2 | 3

Florals add a soft and feminine flair that is fun for the summer.

1 | 2 

Classic suits never go out of style.

 1 | 2 | 3

Whatever statement you want to make poolside or beachside, you are are sure to make a splash in this year's endless array of bathing suit prints and styles. Whether you go bold with a geometric print or classic with a black halter, you are bound to hit a home run this Summer!

Target Finds: Under $30

Who doesn't love Target? I often call it my "happy place." It is where I can grab my Starbucks Cinnamon Dolce latte and head off to browse aisle after aisle of beauty, fashion and home decor. Target is trendy and affordable, a match made in heaven. Their slogan "Expect more. Pay less." is right on the money. It is a store that is constantly partnering with high end designers to  bring us cutting edge design on a budget. Here are 6 summer finds under $30 that can currently be found at Target.

Happy Styling,

Rebekah

Hat | Purse | Necklace |Eyeshadow | Dress | Shoes

Summer 2013 Accessories Guide

Summer has officially arrived! Here are five essential accessories that you want to invest in this season. 1. A fedora hat keeps you cool and stylish.

2. Sunglasses are instant glamour.

3. A colorful scarf keeps things fun and festive.

4. A beach bag keeps all of your essentials stylishly in one place.

5. Nail polish in a bright color adds the finishing touches to any summer outfit.

Have fun accessorizing this season! Take risks with color and accessories. Summer is all about bright color palettes and fun patterns.

Happy Styling!

Rebekah

Color Block Nail Art

Nail art is THE THING TO DO right now! If you spend anytime on Pinterest or Instagram, you will see countless images of nails decorated with everything from glitter to chevron patterns. You will also find an endless sea of DIY nail art tutorials. Nail art was all over the runway at New York Fashion Week and will be a top trend this Summer. To achieve the above look, you can either take the picture to your local nail salon and have them re-create it. Or you can do it your self!

Here is how you can re-create this look on your own:

1. Start by picking three colors. You will need one light shade for the base,  one medium shade, and one darker shade. The colors above were all OPI colors: “Sweetheart", “French Quarter For Your Thoughts" , and “Black Onyx.”
2. Paint on two coats of the lightest shade as a base.
3. Take the medium shade and sweep it from left to right across your nail.
4. Take the darkest shade and sweep it from left to right across your nail.
5. Paint on a top coat. And let your nails dry.

It takes a steady hand to do this. If this is too hard for you, tape strips can be cut and placed on the nail to serve as an outline to keep the lines straight. Make sure each coat of polish is dry before you put the tape strips on your nails!

Nail art adds a fun twist to your regular one color manicure. Have fun playing with different colors and patterns. Branch out and use nail art as a way to accessorize this season.

Happy Styling!

Rebekah

Photo by: Reagan Miura

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

Rebekah's Find Of The Week: The Triangle Necklace

I had been crushing on this Shopbop triangle necklace for a while, but I had never bought it because of its steep price tag. I could not justify spending $75 on a trend that may not last. This weekend, when I was at my local Forever 21, I found a similar necklace for a mere $5.80! So, of course I had to buy it!

You’ve got to love Forever 21 for their inexpensive finds. Now I get to try out this trend without diving deep into my pockets.

Happy bargain shopping!

Rebekah

DIY Chevron Knuckle Ring

Knuckle rings are a trend that I am absolutely LOVING right now! I have been seeing them all over Etsy and Pinterest. Recently, I was just about to pull the trigger on ordering some, when the thought crossed my mind, “why don’t you just make them yourself!” So…off to Michaels I went! Today, I am going to show you how simple it is to make these fun chevron knuckle rings. The supplies: 1. Wire cutters 2. Thin wire (16 or 18 gauge wire seems to work well)

Start by cutting off about 2-3 inches of wire.

Take the wire and bend it into a point. You can start off using your fingers to shape the wire into a chevron pattern.

You can also use the end of your wire cutters to help reinforce the shape.

Next place the wire on your finger at the height that you want it.

Wrap the wire around your finger and twist together.

You can use the end of your wire cutters to help mold them together. Be careful with the edges of the wire, they can be sharp. You can sand them down a bit with a nail filer to take off the sharp edges.

And you are finished!

Article by: Rebekah Miura Pictures by: Reagan Miura