Fit For A Princess: Creating Princess Moments One Dress At A Time

 On a recent Instagram post the Top Buttons community of followers got a sneak peek on Alexis' involvement with something called Fit For A Princess. Here's the scoop:

Fit For A Princess (FFAP) is an organization in Lakeland, FL whose purpose is to create 'princess moments' for underprivileged high school students who would normally be unable to attend their prom. FFAP has carried out this vision by previously holding dress collections throughout the academic year to donate to the girls of Kathleen High School.

While founder Rachel Kelly was studying in her undergrad at Southeastern University, she read an article about a local high school student who couldn't attend her senior prom because she couldn't afford a dress.

“I realized in that moment that I wasn’t going to let a dress be the reason a girl would miss out on a Princess Moment,” says Kelly.

Since then, Rachel Kelly's dream for these girls became a reality. Currently, FFAP has over 200 dresses in their collection, although they are still looking to expand the variety of not only dresses but now accessories too. In addition, FFAP has received a lot of positive publicity, expansion, and donations. Miss Teen Florida has even offered to collect and donate pageant dresses from fellow pageant contestants and she has promised her presence at the dress give-away event in February.

“I got the call when I was in the store shopping. I literally threw the cart down the aisle and almost dropped my phone,” says Kelly. “You wouldn’t believe how many people are backing this. I have so much support."

This movement to create 'princess moments' has now been adopted by Florida Southern as well. Because two universities have now teamed up to make this event possible, Kelly expects to collect double the amount of dresses and even provide dresses for double the amount of girls by opening up their event to the students of Lakeland Senior High School as well as maintaining their involvement with Kathleen High School. To ensure that this vision is possible, Top Buttons is also supporting FFAP's endeavors and will be assisting in collecting dresses as well.

On February 22, 2014, Top Buttons will be teaming up with the FFAP team to transform Southeastern University's Sportsplex into a fancy boutique full of dresses, where high school students are invited to shop the dress selection completely free of charge with the opportunity to become a princess. On the day of the event, Top Buttons stylists and FFAP volunteers will be dressed as personal fashion consultants to create a dream come true.

More information regarding donations or volunteering can be found by emailing Alexis Gauthier at Alexis@topbuttons.org, or by contacting the founder herself -- Rachel Kelly -- at FitForAPrincess1@yahoo.com or visiting their Facebook page at www.Facebook.com/fitforaprincess1

Holiday Accessory Ideas

Holiday celebrations are in full swing. Add some glamour to your party attire with accessories. Tis the season to sparkle! Incorporate some holiday flair to your up-do with these crystal beauties!

Make a lasting impression with a statement necklace.

Don't forget to throw a sparkly arm party.

A cocktail ring is the perfect companion to a stack of bracelets.

Show off your holiday makeup with a pair of statement earrings.

Top off your ensemble with a sequin clutch.

Never underestimate the power of a little sparkle. With the right accessories, it's easy to add a little holiday glitz to your party outfits. Dust off your LBD, add a few accessories and your ready for a festive night out.

What accessories will you be wearing this holiday season? Let us know in the comments below!

Happy Styling! Rebekah

Images via Pinterest: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

Mad for Plaid: Fall 2013 Trend

Plaid is in and we are not just talking about plaid shirts. Plaid scarves, jackets, pants, purses, and leggings are all statement pieces that add a fresh and stylish edge to your Fall and Winter outfits. Here are some of our favorite ways to incorporate this iconic pattern into your wardrobe this season.

Go bold with a plaid coat to keep you warm and stylish.

Accessorize with a plaid scarf to add depth to your outfit.

Incorporate some holiday glam into your outfit by mixing plaid with sequins.

Add an edge to your look by mixing leather and plaid.

Don't be afraid to mix patterns. Plaid and leopard are a combination that work well together.

Plaid is the perfect addition to your Fall and Winter wardrobe. Though it may be highlighted as a trend this season, it is a solid investment that will never go out of style.

Images Via Pinterest (1, 2, 3 , 4, 5, 6 )

The Baseball Cap Trend

Baseball caps are getting a makeover this season. They are being adorned with studs, jewels and draped in luxurious leather. A hat that was once worn only to sporting games or to cover up a bad hair day, is now being considered as a statement piece. Wear them with leather pants, a skirt or skinny jeans, baseball caps can be worn dressed up or down. Here are a few ways that you can wear the baseball cap trend.

Baseball caps are a great addition to the Fall and Winter wardrobe. They are a versatile accessory that can be worn with several different looks and silhouettes. We all need a go-to hat that we can quickly throw on for those days when we want to look stylish and put together, but don’t have a lot of time to spend on our hair. The baseball cap is perfect for this.

Who knew baseball caps could be so chic! Will you be wearing this trend? Let us know in the comments below.

Happy Styling!

Rebekah

Images via Pinterest: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6

Black Friday Deals

It's that time of year when everyone is scouring the store ads to see what kind of deals they can get! Christmas lists have been made and it is the perfect time to check some items off of the list! Today, we have compiled a few of our favorite Black Friday deals to help make shopping easier! Ulta will have door-busters and a ton of sales this year! Look for their exclusive $10 Bare Minerals Kits (a $44 value) and the Benefit Cosmetics Lip Lotto, for $18. The deals are available on-line Thursday 7pm CST and in-store starting at 8pm. You can click here for more details.

Sephora is offering $10 specials that include lines such as Tarte, Bite, Buxom, and Jose Maran. They will be available on-line and in stores Nov. 29 while supplies last. Check out their Pinterest board for a sneak preview of their deals.

H&M will have deals from $2.95 starting Nov.29. The first 100 people in line will receive scratch off tickets worth up to $300. To preview more deals from H&M click here.

Old Navy is having some pretty impressive specials this year!  They will be open Thanksgiving (Nov.28) 9am-4pm. Doors will re-open at 7pm and stay open through 11pm Friday night. The entire store will be 50%. Also, one shopper will win a million dollars! The first 100 in line Thursday night will have a chance to win. To see more deals click here.

Target  is having a ton of deals! Stores open at 8 p.m. on Thanksgiving; Online sales begin at 12:01 a.m. on Black Friday. To preview the ad click here.

Forever 21 is starting early and having deals leading up to Black Friday 2013. From now until November 29th, Forever 21's Pre-Black Friday sale will offer 50% off a ton of select items. To see today's deals click here. On Black Friday, it is rumored that Forever 21 will launch its "yellow tag deals" with items starting out as low as $3.00.

Gap also started their Black Friday sale early. Each daily deal is different and those who sign up for emails can get an additional 25% off. To see the Black Friday sale click here.

As you can see the deals are on! Let us know in the comments below if you score some amazing finds! Ready, set, Save!

5 Steps To Finding Your Personal Style

Personal style is a journey. It always changes and evolves with you and your lifestyle. One season you may lean toward classic styles and the next you may love bohemian prints and silhouettes! Your fashion choices can change from day to day. That is the fun of fashion; it is self-expression and it is meant to be fun. Here are some tips to help you a long the way as you find your personal style:

What is style? It is an effortless confidence in being yourself, it is a way of putting yourself together according to what you want to project.  -DVF

1. Create a Pinterest account and start pinning images of outfits that you like. This will help you to identify your likes and dislikes. It will also help to train your eye in how to put together a complete look. The images should also serve as an inspiration for mixing patterns and colors.

2. Gather your favorite fashion magazines and tear out pictures of outfits that you like.

3. Take these images with you when you go shopping and look for similar pieces. Try them on and see if the style works on you.

4. Know your body type. Once you know what styles and silhouettes work for you, it will make shopping so much easier.

5. If you get stuck, enlist the help of a friend. Think of someone whose style you admire and ask them to go shopping with you. Having a second opinion can be extremely helpful.

 After all, style is something each of us already has-all we need to do is find it. -DVF

The key to finding your style is first gathering inspiration; whether it is from fashion magazines or from friends that you admire. The next step is to know your body type. Inspiration and knowledge are the seedbeds to creativity.

Photos via Pinterest: ( 1| 2 | 3 )

Ways to Wear: The Infinity Scarf

The infinity scarf is noted for its never-ending versatility and rightfully so. Infinity scarves can be worn casually or styled to dress up a look. Below are a few ways to wear the original cotton infinity scarf.

Most infinity scarves can be worn full length or open, as shown above. This option is perfect for a casual look. If the scarf is a bit lengthy when draped once, double it up as shown below. You want to be careful the scarf does not fall too far past your waist.

            

Left: When doubling over an infinity scarf, your preference will ultimately decide the look. You can pull the scarf tight to taper the scarf (as pictured) or pull the ends of the scarf together, which will even out the scarf to the same length. By doing this, the scarf will appear fuller and there will be no worries with the length getting in the way.

Middle: The knot is always a fun change from the typical layering and doubling. You can achieve 'the knot' by creating a standard knot on one end. Once you put it on you can adjust both the size and placement of the knot.

Far right: For a quirky twist with an infinity scarf, make an incomplete knot and "fluff" the scarf to give the appearance of a tie. For example, begin with a standard knot but do NOT pull it all the way through. Instead, create a tail with the scarf; you can pull it out for a fuller look (as pictured), or tuck in the fabric for a 'skinny' tie.

Dots* | Stripes (featured) | Prints* | Solids*

*Links are suggestions

Photo Credit: Casey Taylor

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!

Splurge or Save

These Valentino heels have been on my Pinterest board entitled “Wishlist” for quite some time now. With a steep price tag of $945, they will probably stay there for good. That's why I was ecstatic to see their twin at Windsor for a fraction of the price! Of course, the quality is nowhere near Valentino standards, but if you still want the "look," these shoes achieve that goal. Some items are worth investing in while some can be bought at a budget friendly price. So... would you splurge or save on these Valentino heels? Let us know in the comments below!

Happy Styling,

Rebekah

A Leopard Print Inspired Outfit for Fall

It is always on trend, sometimes over done, but ALWAYS posh. We are talking about leopard prints! Runways have been flooded with numerous ways to wear the once traditional leopard print. The classic take of tan & black print has morphed into black & white and other color on color prints. Not only has leopard print changed its look through the years, but the way it is styled has also taken a more "street style" approach.

Baggy sweaters, pops of color, and leopard accessories have found their way from the runway to the streets. So we decided to take on a black & white print perfect for transitioning to Fall.

So whether you rock the traditional tan & black or go crazy in color, revamping leopard prints are a must...and will NEVER go out of style. Click here for additional animal print ideas.

Photo Credit: Casey Taylor

Fashion Cents: Tips for Buying Cheap Clothes

Written by Alexis Gauthier Good-day Lovely Ladies! Alexis here :D I’m so excited to be part of the new Fashion ¢ents campaign, because a good fashion bargain is fashion that just makes sense. Today I wanted to share with you my heart behind this fashion feature and even give you girls a few tips on how to work the thrift store bargains!

Imagine yourself at a holiday party, fun friend outing, or even just walking the halls of school. No matter where you are, your desire is to look and feel confident, however with the pricy trends that have made their way to the runway and front covers of magazines, it is difficult to afford diverse outfits, let alone one astounding look! I’ve been there. We all have, however I was lucky enough to jump on the thrifting train at a young age.

Once I learned that I could get the same looks at thriftier prices, I never went back. Why? Because my clothing items were original and affordable. Sometimes it takes a little more time and effort, but I also get more for my money, so I have more options to choose from! Here are some of my thrift store secrets.

Salvation Army – 50% off Wednesdays

A lot of Salvation Army stores discount all of their shoes, clothing, and accessories 50% off all day on Wednesdays. I love this sale because I get twice for a price that’s already a bargain.

A couple of my favorite items found at a recent Salvation Army 50% off sale!

Ask for discounts!

You never know how much money you can really save until you try. One time, I was shopping with a friend who was in an especially particular time financial crunch because her wedding was just weeks away. It was to the point that she couldn’t even afford the thrift shop prices, so I explained her situation to the cashier, and the sales clerk was sweet enough to add an ADDITIONAL 50% off. Another time, I had picked out a shirt with a lot of holes in it, which I didn’t mind because I know how to sew, and I showed the lady the holes and asked if I could have a discount. I ended up scoring the shirt for 50 cents!

Color of the day discount

Goodwill and Salvation Army ALWAYS have a color of the day. If you find clothes tagged with that color, you get a discount. It’s always like a treasure hunt, but definitely worth the search.

College discount

If you’re in college, almost every location honors students with a 10% off discount. I’ve been using this discount since high school by presenting my dual-enrollment ID. If you’re not in college, check your local thrift store for similar discounts like senior discounts etc. and plan a thrifting adventure with a college mentor or grandparent so you can use their discount.

99cents a pound

Okay, so here is one of my BIGGEST thrift secrets. There’s select Goodwill locations that are called Goodwill Headquarters. These locations are usually very large buildings with two sides: there’s the normal store with a very large selection, and then there’s section that is 99 cents a pound. You need to have a lot of time on your hands to sift through the tables and buckets of clothes, but it is so affordable in the end. I’ve been twice, spent $7 both times, and left with about 15 items on both occasions. That averages out to about 50 cents per item. My favorite buy was a sequin pair of Express shorts.

Plato’s Closet grab bag sale

This is one of my absolute favorite discounts, however it only happens once or twice a year, depending on location. Every summer Plato’s Closet draws in crowds of fashionistas with the alluring temptation of gently used name brand clothing combined with extra low prices. How? They have a grab bag sale! The object of the sale is to stuff as much clothing and accessories into the bag as possible so that it can still tie, and then all the contents of the bag are yours for just $20. I’ve lined up for this sale before, in which the line wrapped around the building and girls of all ages ran inside when doors opened. I ended up leaving Plato’s Closet spending $20 and getting 25 items of nearly new clothing, all because I strategically folded and stuffed.

So, there you have it: some of the best discount tips from the bargainer herself! I hope you enjoyed. Leave some feedback so I know what YOU want to hear about in my next Fashion Cents feature.

The possibilities are endless.

Fall 2013 Trend: Animal Print

Animal print is a popular trend that will continue into the Fall 2013 season. Wear it as an accessory or go bold with a leopard shirt or pant. Animal prints are an excellent way to add a little spice to your Fall wardrobe.  

Happy Styling,

Rebekah

Clutch | Sweater (similar) | Watch | Shoe | Belt (similar) | Wallet (similar)

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*

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

The Mix: Maximize Your Wardrobe

These 6 wardrobe staples are essentials to have in your closet this season. Denim, floral, stripes, and polka dots are all patterns that are excellent to use for mixing. Think of them as neutrals. These patterns can be incorporated into an outfit as accessories or they can be more of a focal point when worn as tops or bottoms. Get the most out of your wardrobe this season by taking time to mix patterns and try new outfit combinations. You may be surprised at the outfits you already have in your closet! Your friends will think you went on a shopping spree and your pocketbook will thank you!  

Happy Styling,

Rebekah

Striped Shirt (similar) | Denim Shirt | Polka Dot Shirt (similar) | Floral Skirt | Red Pants (similar)

Necklaces (left to right): 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 (similar)

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

How to Style A Maxi Skirt Two Ways: Day To Night

Maxi skirts are great foundational piece to have in your wardrobe. They are versatile skirts that can be worn day or night. This single skirt can be the foundation for several outfits. Today, I'll highlight two looks using the same maxi skirt and tank top combination. The first is a daytime look. This outfit is perfect for lunch with friends, shopping, or sightseeing. The lightweight, airiness of the skirt keeps you cool and unscathed from the heat, the laid back accessories keep it comfy and casual, yet stylish.

The second look is a classy evening ensemble. Sandals are swapped out for a pair of ankle strap heels, a chunky statement necklace replaces the light weight 3 strand necklace, a clutch takes the place of the straw tote, and a leather jacket is added for warmth and gives an edge to the outfit.

Taking an outfit from day to night does not have to be complicated. Jumping from one event to the next just got easier! The next time you have multiple engagements, try keeping a bag of accessories and a lightweight jacket in your car. Transitioning from daytime to nighttime is a cinch with just a few, simple accessory changes!

Happy Styling,

Rebekah

The following are links to the outfits above:

Daytime look: Skirt | Tank Top | Belt | Shoes: Similar | Necklace: Similar | Purse: Similar | Sunglasses

Nighttime look: Jacket: Similar | Shoes | Necklace: Similar | Clutch: Similar

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.

Trend Alert: Ankle Straps

Ankle straps are stealing the show this season and will continue to shine into the Fall. They are a sophisticated shoe that can be paired with both casual and dressy outfits. They look great worn with a pair of cropped pants here and a midi skirt here. The ankle strap elongates the leg and adds a polished look to an outfit. These shoes come in all different colors and patterns and are the perfect way to complete an outfit.  

Happy Styling,

Rebekah

 Red Suede Sandal | Camel Sandals | Black  Ballerina Flats | Color Block Sandals

Black Ankle Cuff Pumps | Leopard Pumps

#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