Statement Outerwear For Fall

Outerwear is essential for the upcoming months as the days grow colder. One of the best ways to spice up an outfit is to pair it with a bold coat or sweater. This is perfect for a fun weekend especially if it includes an outdoor adventure.

Shag coats are a huge trend this season. If you love the look of fur, but would rather go faux, this is the perfect alternative. Pair a shag coat with a black shirt dress, tights, and booties for a look that keeps you warm and stylish.

Statement jackets look great when worn with simple, basic silhouettes. (You can find a similar look at Forever 21)

Vests are also popular this fall. They are lightweight and perfect for those warmer autumn days. Pair a vest with your favorite pair of jeans and a long sleeve t-shirt. Opt for simple accessories such as a watch or small chain necklace. They are classic and keep the focus on the vest.

Vests are great layering pieces. They can be worn with pants, skirts, or dresses.  (You can find this vest at Zara ).

Will you be wearing a statement jacket this season? Be daring, show it off on your next afternoon out with friends. From fringe to bold patterns or even sparkle, fall is all about making a statement!

Written by: Jenna Howell

Fall Sweater Guide

The weather is turning crisp and the clothes are getting cozy this time of year. The difficult fashion question is how do I wear a blanket and still look chic, right ladies?

The boyfriend cardigan is a good place to start. Pair this over a denim jumpsuit and striped shirt for a comfy, weekend look.

This look can easily be dressed up or down. Pair your cardigan with a statement necklace and booties or for a more casual look, opt for sneakers and a high pony tail. (You can find this cardigan and jumpsuit at Free People.)                                                              

Open sweater coats are another good option for oversized knitwear. The extra material at the neckline provides extra warmth so even on a cold day, this sweater can double as a jacket. (You can find similar items at Marshalls, Macys or any department store.)

I love how this sweater has a hood! It's both practical and stylish. The subtle print adds visual interest to the look but can easily be a neutral staple piece.

This look is great for cold weather adventures, errands, or even class.

          

What's your favorite way to wear a sweater this season? Let us know in the comments below! Written by: Jenna Howell

Fall's Most Wearable Trends

Do you ever find yourself captivated by all the designer looks that make-up New York and Paris Fashion Week? Do you then think to yourself, I could never pull that off or where would I wear something like that? Well you're not alone! Here are three of the most wearable trends for fall. 1. The Car Wash Skirt - This skirt is similar to the popular fringe trend except the flaps are slightly thicker. We love the fun and flirty nature of this piece! You can add a touch of sophistication to this look by pairing your skirt with a button down blouse and heels. Check out Etsy for cute affordable car wash skirts!

2. Neon - Just because summer is over it doesn't mean that you have to pack away all your bright colors. Pops of Neon were all over the runway for fall. We love pairing a loose fitted tee with boyfriend jeans. You can finish your look with a pair of Bevin Heels! Click here for more neon tees.

3. Flare Bottoms - All you need is a pair of flared jeans to be on-trend this fall. We love the ease and comfort these jeans bring to an outfit. They transition easily from day to night to meet all your fashion needs! To spice things up add a pair of animal print heels. Check out a&f for more flared jeans.

Feeling Brave? Unleash your inner fashionista and try out "hot off the runway" trends this Fall!

Written by: Amanda Jacobs Images via Pinterest

How To Get The Marissa Webb Look

Marissa Webb is the brilliant mind behind the Banana Republic label. She was named their Creative Director and Executive Vice President of Design in April 2014. On top of these roles she also manages to run her own cutting-edge design label. Marissa is known just as much for her designs as she is for her incredible personal style. If you've ever wanted to dress like this style maven, you've come to the right place. Today, we are sharing tips on how to re-create some of Marissa's most popular looks. Marissa is known for her genius mix of feminine and masculine elements. She is often seen wearing a structured blazer. We love how she adds a playful edge to her jacket by opting to roll the sleeves.

Marissa is an expert in layering necklaces. Accessories are key to achieving her look. This always adds an enormous amount of style and detail to her outfits.

Along with layering necklaces, Marissa often completes her looks by adding a carefully curated stack of bracelets. We love how she uses jewelry to personalize her outfits.

Are you as inspired as we are? We hope you enjoyed these tips on how to achieve Marissa's effortlessly chic look.  For more style inspiration and to view her designs, click here.

Happy Styling,

Rebekah

{images via: pinterest}

On Our Radar: The Sweater Poncho

What if you could leave the house draped in a cozy blanket and be right on trend? Well, you can! This season’s most loved item is the sweater poncho. It's comfortable, warm, and chic all at once! Here are a few ways to style this fall essential. Casual chic is the way to go when you are headed out for a low key afternoon on the town. A sweater poncho can be worn with a pair of jeans, sweatshirt, and your favorite pair of sneakers. This is definitely the ultimate cozy outfit that's ideal for catching an afternoon movie with friends.

If you're going for more of a sophisticated look, try belting your poncho. It adds a stylish element to your outfit and has a nice elongating effect to it.

Trendy chic is always a hit around here. The addition of a floppy hat, ripped jeans, and ankle boots take the sweater poncho to a whole other level. This could possibly be the perfect fall look!

Since ponchos are a hot ticket item this season, you won't have a hard time finding one. In fact, they come in a wide variety of different colors, patterns and styles. To see our picks, click the links below!

Forever 21 Striped Poncho | BP. Paid Poncho | Lulus Cream And Black Poncho

Happy Styling,

Rebekah

{images via: pinterest}

3 Ways To Style A Dress For Fall

Don't move your dresses to the back of the closet just yet! Whether you have plans to attend a football game, meet up with friends at a carnival, or have a lunch date at the mall with your bestie, a dress may be the perfect choice for your event! Check out these 3 ways to style a dress for fall. Looking for something quick and easy for this weekend's football game? Try pairing a T-Shirt dress that represents your team's colors. Add a necklace for contrast, throw on some ankle booties and you are ready to cheer on your team! (You can find similar dresses at Charming Charlie).

We love the look of pairing a tunic with a pair of knee-high boots. This versatile dress can be dressed up or down to fit any occasion. For a more sophisticated look pair your outfit with a thin belt and patterned scarf as seen below. (This dress can be found at H&M).

Going out with the girls tonight? Not to worry we have you covered! Pull out your favorite party dress, throw on your coziest sweater and finish off your look with a long necklace and some tights! (You can find similar items from Anthropologie).

What can be more refreshing than a crisp cool breeze in the air that will encourage you to breakout your fall wardrobe? Chances are you already have several dresses in your closet. All you need to do now is add a sweater or a scarf and you are all set!

Written by: Amanda Jacobs

Images via Pinterest

A Fall Day at the Beach

We know that summer has come to an end, but some of you ladies may live in a warm place, or may find yourself in a tropical place, like this one:

I am currently in a climate that is far from fall, and this weekend I went to the beach for a day of relaxation. In the fall, beach attire looks a little different but I have some key tips on what to wear over those swimsuits.

Take your favorite tunic for instance, a long sleeve, light weight one is perfect to throw over your swimsuit (you can find this one at Free People).

Don't forget your sunglasses, and a beach bag, in our case we brought backpacks because our trip included a hike.  Try to keep your accessories minimal so you don't have to stow too much jewelry away when you hit the water.

Another alternative is to pair your favorite floral top with cut-offs or jeans on those cooler beach days to keep warm before you hit the water.

The key is light-weight pieces and layers. This drop-waist button up shirt dress is perfect for all shapes and light minimal colors are perfect for beachwear (this top is from H&M)

Cover your one piece with a sheer lace top, and you are dressed up enough to hit a restaurant on the boardwalk before you head for the water (you can find tops similar to this at American Eagle).

Whether you are planning a picnic by the water or packing for your upcoming tropical vacation, these tips are sure to help you to hit the beach in style. Keep it simple, lightweight and layered and you're sure to have a great time!

Written by: Jenna Howell Photography by: Kristie Wuttke 

Get Fall Fabulous With These 5 Items

Transitioning your summer wardrobe to fall doesn’t have to be complicated. Although it’s warm outside you can still get into the fall spirit. All you need are a few key items to get you through this tricky in between season. Incorporate these 5 essentials into your daily routine and you will look effortlessly chic in no time. Dark nail polish—We know you’ve been looking for a reason to run to Sephora so here is the perfect excuse! Start transitioning to fall with dark nail polish. OPI's "Lincoln Park " is always a winner every year.

Dark lipstick—While you're at the beauty store make sure to swing by the lipstick section to test out a few berry or plum shades. Nothing screams fall like a bold lip. Try Mac’s “fashion revival.”

Plaid shirt- Fall is pretty much synonymous with plaid right? Once you sport a plaid shirt with a pumpkin spice latte in hand you have officially crossed over into fall territory! We love this shirt from Madewell.

Pointed ballet flats—Instead of reaching for your sandals, opt for a pair of flats. How cute are these leopard ones from Asos? And they are only $33!

A quality bag—Trade in your canvas totes for a great statement bag. A cognac leather bag is on our must have list this season. We are loving this one from Madewell.

You don’t have to wait until the tempature drops to get into the fall spirit. Have fun incorporating these items or similar ones into your everyday look!

What are some items for fall that you are currently crushing on? Let us know in the comments below!

Happy Styling,

Rebekah

{images via pinterest}

3 Ways To Style A Grey Sweatshirt

What if I told you that you could significantly up your fashion game with a simple grey sweatshirt? Well, you can! Chances are you already own one of these basic wardrobe staples. Prepping for fall just got a little easier and cheaper! Now that's good news right? Here are 3 creative ways to style a grey sweatshirt. A sweatshirt and leather leggings is a match made in heaven. Who would have thought? Add a scarf and some fun kicks and you have an outfit that is not only stylish but comfortable.

A sweatshirt can easily transition from day to night with the right accessories and a good pair of heels. How fun is this feather skirt? It's totally unexpected, but absolutely works.

Layer a blazer over your sweatshirt. As the temperature begins to drop you can survive the cooler weather in style.

Feeling inspired? I know I am. I love being able to take an inexpensive item and utilize it multiple ways. I'd love to hear how you would style your sweatshirt! Make sure to comment below and let me know!

Happy Styling,

Rebekah

{ Image Sources: 1 | 2 | 3 }

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

Simple Back To School Outfit Ideas

The back to school season is in full swing! Maybe you've already experienced your "first day" or maybe it's still a week or two away. You have enough on your mind with preparing for classes, catching up with friends, and deciding on extracurricular activities. Don't let what you're wearing be something you stress over! Keep it simple. Try opting for a dress or romper. Finish the look with a pair of strappy sandals and you're ready to go!

One of our favorite back to school looks is a peasant top with a youthful pattern like the one seen below. Simply add your favorite pair of  jeans and you are all set!

We encourage you to get creative by mixing and matching items from your existing wardrobe. You may be surprised by how many cute outfits you already own! Dresses, skirts, and pants can take on a whole new look when paired with a denim vest and accessories.

We hope some of these simple outfit ideas will make getting dressed for school easier.

Make this year your best-dressed yet!

Checkout Forever 21 and Target for similar items.

Written by: Amanda Jacobs

Photography by: Beth Carter

The Practical Bag Every Girl Should Own

I used to be an "oversized" handbag gal to the core. My purse fit everything I could possibly imagine within its expansive pockets, though I only used a third of the space. On a recent trip to NYC I knew I would need a more practical option to get me through the hustle and bustle of the city. Once I purchased a crossbody from Target, I never looked back. It's comfortable, lightweight and perfect for being on the go. I love being hands free! It allows me to easily get through the day without lugging my big statement bag around. Although, those definitely have their place too! Here are 6 crossbody purses that are all under $40 and all from Target:

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6

Crossbody purses are not just practical, they are ultra stylish. A bright coral bag can be just the pop of color that your outfit needs to really shine!

Hope you enjoyed this post and find the bag of your dreams!

Happy Shopping,

Rebekah

Photography by: Beth Carter (top image)

3 Ways To Style A Belt

A belt is a timeless staple that every girl should have in her collection of accessories. We all have that one item in our closet whether it's a dress or a blouse that looks super cute on a hanger. However, once it's on we're wondering, "Where did all the cuteness go?" Often times your look just needs some sprucing up with accessories. Check out these three looks for ideas on how to style your outfits using belts from your closet. Belts are fun and effortless. They are the perfect accessory to add that finishing touch to your outfit! Add a pop of color to a white dress by adding a fun scarf and your look is complete!

You can never go wrong when pairing a belt with your favorite pair of denim. If you' re looking for a way to style your look around your belt try choosing a flowing top and tuck it in just above the top of your belt.

Don't be afraid to break out the layers this summer. Get creative with your outfit for a night out with the girls! Layer a neutral vest over your striped top, throw on a belt and you are ready to go!

Whether you have an entire collection of belts or just one, you can bring new life to your closet with this simple accessory. Dive into your closet and have fun reinventing some of your favorite pieces!

Written by: Amanda Jacobs

Images:  Pinterest

5 Tips For Achieving Your Best Internship Look

Congratulations! You knocked your interview out of the park, and have officially landed the internship of your dreams! Your first day begins next week, and you have absolutely no idea what to wear. You have a few classic pieces that are appropriate for the office, but the majority of your closet consists of faded skinny jeans and other items you wore throughout college. Don't fret, we are here to help!

Achieving your best internship look shouldn't be stressful, it should be fun! It's your opportunity to bring your own sense of style to the workplace. To start, follow these 5 tips:

1. Begin with the basics. It is all about versatility. Blazers, dress pants, and a tote bag are all great places to start.

2. Pay attention to clothing quality. There is nothing worse than a poorly timed wardrobe malfunction in the office.

3. Layer, layer, layer. Offices are notorious for dramatic fluctuations in temperature. Having layers can create a more comfortable working environment for you throughout the day.

4. Add your own personal flair to each outfit. Add a statement necklace, or a chunky bracelet to amp up your look.

5. Determine the appropriate attire for the industry you are in. An internship at the White House and an internship at the local newspaper may call for two different wardrobes.

Now you look great and you feel great! You're ready to take on your first day at the office. Remember, you didn't get the job because of the clothes that you wear. You got the job because you are brilliant, hard-working, ambitious and kind. Those traits, coupled with a stellar wardrobe, are sure to bring you success wherever you go!

Written by: Anastasia Jones

Photos via Pinterest

Why Every Pre-teen Should Have A Blazer

Whether you are a mom of a pre-teen or a pre-teen yourself reading this post, we have to say, a pre-teen is NOT too young to own a blazer.  In fact we believe, if you don't have one, it should be at the top of your list on your next shopping trip! Summer is a time of freedom.  No one wants to be constricted or restricted by what they are wearing.  But having just the right light-weight blazer, can take a playtime look and make it a classy and professional one.  Young ladies need practice dressing professionally.  One day they will enter the workforce and practice makes perfect!  It isn't difficult to add a little structure to your look to change the entire vibe!

This look just went from pool time, to job interview or summer luncheon with mom.  No matter what age you are, get yourself a light weight blazer for summer! You won't regret it.

Photography by Beth Carter

Hair and Makeup by Yolanda Delacerda 

How to Wear A Graphic T-Shirt

Looking to add a playful edge to your summer outfits? Try a graphic tee! They are incredibly versatile and add a fun twist to a variety of looks. Graphic t-shirts are not reserved for casual outfits alone, you can absolutely wear them with dressier pieces. Pairing them with a skirt looks classy and sophisticated. We especially love a skirt with a pattern, it adds depth and personality to an outfit.

Don't forget to accessorize! Graphic tees look ultra stylish paired with a statement necklace. Try opting for one with tassels, they are a huge trend right now. We especially love this one from Nordstrom.

One of the best things about a graphic t-shirt is that it's inexpensive and easy to find. So, if you're wanting to spruce up your summer wardrobe, picking up a graphic top is the perfect place to start!

Happy Styling,

Rebekah

Photography: Beth Carter

Summers Most Wearable Trend

One of the exciting things about fashion is that there is no right or wrong way to showcase your style. Whether you live in the city, the suburbs, or the country your geographical location should not limit your creativity to express yourself through your wardrobe. One of this summers most sought after trends is Western inspired. You don't have to live out west to appreciate this trend so go ahead and break out those cowboy boots! Just because it's summer doesn't mean that you have to lose the layers. Looking for an easy way to add some personality to your outfit? Try layering with a fringe cardigan or a fringe purse.

 

 Cowboy boots are a fun way to add some flare to a cute summer dress. So whether you are heading out to lunch with the girls or enjoying music from your favorite concert try complimenting your look with a western touch!

 

For more western themed clothes and accessories check out: www.forever21.com.

Written by: Amanda Jacobs 

Photos via Pinterest

How To Look Fierce in Cobalt

Top Buttons kicks off each season with a stylish photo shoot showcasing some of the latest trends. We love the statement made when choosing a bold color like cobalt for an everyday outfit. Checkout some of the photos from our Summer shoot on how to look fierce in cobalt.

 Accessorizing with calming, warm shades can help tone down the powerful statement cobalt brings to an outfit. You can do this by adding a soft pink or tan necklace as seen here to complete a needed contrast in the overall look.

 Throw on a pair of lightly distressed denim, skinny jeans and your casual outfit is complete!

Cobalt is such a fun color to play around with. It allows us ladies to feel confident and fearless! Two personality traits that come in handy when interning at the office. Throw on a black blazer with a striped top and gold accessories and you are ready to take on the world!

For more great cobalt tops and bottoms checkout this website.

 Written by: Amanda Jacobs

Photos courtesy of: Elisabeth Huijskens

An Easy Summer Look

Loose fitting, free flowing clothing has become a popular style these days. This trend is flattering on most body shapes and provides maximum comfort. For today's article, Destiny models this ever so popular loose fitting, flowy look! We have broken down her outfit piece by piece and found some similar items for you to purchase!

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[ T O P ]

The length of her basic white tank is ideal because it falls just past her waist-line. Draped over her tank is a floral kimono featuring a lace hem. The light-weight layering is perfect for those breezy summer days because it lets air travel through the material.

| White Tank: Cotton On - $15 |

| Kimono: H&M - $20 |

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[ B O T T O M S ]

Destiny's skinny jeans are cuffed at the ankles (cuffs are a trendy way to hide the fact that you can't find the perfect-length pants), and feature rips along the pant legs for a distressed look.

The Forever 21 model's pant length fit her perfectly in these similar jeans, so  wearing them with and without cuffs looks good. When shopping, finding the right pant length is all about availability and preference!

| Ripped Jeans: Forever 21 - $25 |

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[ S H O E S ]

Tan strappy shoes with a cork wedge are a closet-staple! Summer shoes like Destiny's are so versatile that they can be paired with anything! Although she wears it with jeans and a cute top, you could also wear them with a cute romper or summer dress. These Charlotte Russe wedges are similar in style and color palette, but rather than cork wedges, there's a braided hemp.

| Wedges: Charlotte Russe - $35.99 |

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[ A C C E S S O R I E S ]

Destiny's bronze owl pendant necklace is the kind of accessory that matches any outfit with a neutral color palette. We were able to find the SAME necklace that Destiny wears, and luckily for you, this necklace is so popular that we've seen it in other stores such as Etsy, Amazon, and even Wal-Mart!

| Necklace: Claires - $12.50 |

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If this article has inspired your summer wardrobe, send us a pic or use the hashtag #TopButtons on social media.

Top 4 Reasons to Love Preteen Style

We all know fashion is no longer defined by age. Preteen style isn't frilly dresses anymore! These ladies are learning more about what they like and don't like everyday. With that in mind we should love, encourage, and get inspiration from their creative looks. At Top Buttons, we can't get enough of their LOVE of LIFE and each other! We asked some young ladies to wear their favorite summer looks for this photoshoot. The outcome couldn't have been orchestrated any better if we would have chosen the outfits for them. So here are our Top 4 Reasons to Love Preteen Style... Take a look.

1. Preteens LOVE clothing items which are Bright and Fun!

Ever found yourself buying that same neutral or black item over and over again?  Your tween self would have totally gone with a neon or bright color, no questions asked!  Embrace color this summer!

2. Preteens will try a new style or trend without fuss!

As they continue to develop their own unique style, this age group isn't afraid to branch out and try something new with their wardrobe.  Aztec, chambray, you name it, and they will try it.  Mixing patterns and colors are a must and it's a great way to maximize your wardrobe.

3. Preteens love to capture fashion and friendship!

You know it's true.  A Preteen does not miss a moment to snap a pic of their new look with their closest friends. Why not make the most of a great outfit, smile, and camera combo???  During summer, it is a most opportune time.

4. Preteens NEVER FORGET their favorite accessories to complete every look!

Everything about this outfit just works!  Try not to be so predictable with your accessories. Mixing things up a bit by adding a totally different color to your shoes or jewelry will add some spunk in your step and some serious interest to your outfit.

Now we all know, clothing which line the shelves for preteen's is often not... hmm... How shall we say it?...  age appropriate or modest.

Finding shorts which aren't too short for those growing legs, being bold without being offensive, showing off your mood as it changes day to day, all add to the difficulty of expressing individual style with healthy boundaries. But we've seen it done and done well.

Fashion is ART. We believe the preteen is pretty amazing. She is one who is worth the extra time to find clothing which fits properly and sends a message to the world that she is way more than just a body. She has a beautiful spirit, a heart to give, a strength to overcome, a mind to change the world around her and some spunk to make us all forget our troubles.

At Top Buttons, we want to give our tween followers a chance to share their style and healthy self-confidence with the world.  This is why we have decided to start featuring them right here on topbuttons.org!  With this in mind, We have also started an Instagram account devoted to preteens, @tb_girls!

We want to hear what you love the most about this age group AND their fashion sense. Let us know in the comments below! We can't wait for our next preteen photoshoot!

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Hair and Makeup: Yolanda Delacerda Photography:   Beth Carter