PARENTAL INFLUENCE NOT TAKEN FOR GRANTED

The love of a parent is something that is easily taking for granted. Molly Dodd, 22, a Senior at Southeastern University knows this first hand. At sixteen years of age, she lost her father to a massive heart attack. At this time in her life, she was a happy-go-lucky teenager and this event rocked her world. “I didn’t know how to respond,” she shared. Her life was forever changed.

Life was never normal for Molly, but she learned to adapt and work around “father-daughter” functions and events. She explained, “It became my new normal. Every day was a new emotional adventure.”

Five years later, Molly’s mom Jerri became ill. Throughout a year of doctors trying to diagnose a problem, her condition slowly worsened. In February of 2012, Jerri had a life changing surgery to remove the diagnosed tumor on her adrenal gland, but once in surgery, the doctors found a large amount of cancer on five of her organs and lungs. Jerri never woke up from the surgery, and this was completely devastating to Molly and her family. “Talk about not knowing where to turn, I had no parents left to turn to.”

Molly had a close relationship with both of her parents, and with them gone, she was not sure who to ask for help. Her faith in God was the primary source of comfort and support, and the love of her extended family. “They were present as much as they could be, but at the end of the day, I was alone,” shared Molly.

Experiencing such a traumatic tragedy was exhausting. Molly explained that she was physically and emotionally drained from all of the decisions that she had to make in such a short period of time. “I had to decide what to sell of my parents belongings, including the house that I grew up in.” These decisions were difficult for Molly to handle, and at times she became overwhelmed. “I just had to pray. Pray that God would make the decisions easier, and that I would just know what my parents would have wanted,” she said. For Molly, it was definitely a moment that she never dreamed of facing at least until her late 50s.

After the extreme moments of decisions and saying her last goodbyes, Molly was able to reflect on her parents' influence on her life. She shared that they taught her how to be a woman of great integrity and character, and that life is a story. Their influence daily inspires her to dress with dignity and respect in order to honor them.

She explained that she feels entrusted to carry this story of God's grace and mercy.

“God must think I’m something else to trust me with such a massive testimony.”

She says that everyone should know that her life is no worse than anyone else's. “I am actually very blessed. For the 16 years that I knew my dad, and the 21 years that I knew my mom, I am so grateful.” She finds comfort knowing they are her biggest fans and are watching her live the life that they and God have given her.

Molly warns, “ I know it sounds difficult, but never take for granted your parents disciplining you or telling you their opinions, they just love you.” She shared that she wishes her parents were around to tell her how they feel or what is on their mind.

She understands now more than ever that life is not guaranteed, and every day is a complete gift. Her parents were an incredible resource of support and motivation in her life, and she is thankful for the years she was able to learn from them. Molly jokes now that she better make good choices, because they are always watching.

Photo Credit: Anastasia Jones-Downing

VINTAGE COUNTRY CHARM

Jumper Dresses are typically meant to be worn over a blouse. Even though the jumper dress isn't always available in the trendy shops, we feel this style could be worn by most body types year round! This Vintage Country Charm look is pulled off nicely with the plaid + consignment horse buckle belt.

Why not throw in some animal print? These Women's Mossimo® Vianca Tuxedo Flats work quite nicely with this outfit.

The Jumper Dress isn't easy to find. But our online search did yield some results! Etsy and Polyvore are great resources to find some of the more difficult items.

Click here to purchase this jumper dress for $30

Click here to buy this Bow-Accent Jumper Dress for $31.50

Stylist: Dana Roquemore

Photo Credit: Joanna LeMasters and Taylor Flumerfelt

AN OZ COLOR

If you haven't already heard...Pantone LLC, an X-Rite company and the global authority on color and provider of professional color standards for the design industries, announced PANTONE® 17-5641 Emerald, as the Color of the Year for 2013. This color reminds us of The Land of Oz!  Green, Green, Green has been steadily rising for a while now, especially in the fashion industry. With an appropriateness for every occasion, emerald has an elegance which makes it irresistible for women’s formal and everyday attire. 

If you are loving this color, you should definitely get at least one Emerald item for your 2013 wardrobe.  We found some options in this color for you to consider!

Old Navy has a classy Young Women's Crepe Tie-Belt Shift Dress   (as of today) in all sizes on sale for $14.99. Urban Outfitters currently has these awesome green Converse Chuck Taylor All Star High-Top Sneakers  for $45. This Vintage 70s Suede Green Cape from Other Peoples Property would be a quality item worth saving up for!  The length of the Green Double Layer Tube Skirt from Top Shop is perrrfectt for winter + it could be worn with a tank in the summer with a purchase price of $40.

If you purchase any of the items we share on our blog, we'd love to hear about it.  Maybe even see a picture?!  You could share them with us directly on our Facebook page or on Instagram with a @topbuttons tag in the comment under the image.  Thanks for stopping by!

Photo Credit:  Kayla Anderson

RINGING WITH STYLE

SPREAD THE WORD AND GET THIS MUSTACHE PHONE CASE... Accessorizing your phone case is super popular right now.  Some people may not want to fool with the switch, sticking to their protective Otter Box.  But many are changing them out DAILY!  We admit this is a fun way to show off PERSONALITY + COORDINATE with your Outfit Of The Day.

We are giving away NOT 1... BUT 2 of our FAVORITE iPhone case with this GIVEAWAY.  So actually we will select 1 winner from Instagram and 1 winner from the entries below and on Facebook.  This really fun MUSTACHE iPhone case fits the 4 and 4s.

DETAILS ON HOW TO WIN:

* Enter through the form below

OR

* (MOBILE FRIENDLY)Enter by going directly to our Facebook Page , Giveaway Tab, which has the same form as the one below

AND/ OR

* Find this image on our INSTAGRAM and follow the instructions below the image a Rafflecopter giveaway

WE

Kenady is our Modesty On The Streets (MOTS) Rep of Lakeland, FL.  Here she is seen wearing clothing from Other People’s Property.  Exact items she is wearing can be purchased from their online consignment shop. To piece together a similar outfit, search the racks of your local consignment shop!

Similar lace up booties can be purchased for $25 here.

Finding this length in a skirt is no easy task when shopping in most retail stores and the button down shirt has unique detail that is more typical with a vintage style.  If you aren't up for the challenge of consignment shopping and OPP has sold this item already, We have found an online site that carries a top like this one.

Side Note:  At Top Buttons, we love many styles from Urban Outfitters, H&M, Top Shop, etc…., BUT not all items sold in these stores could be considered modest.  In our opinion, see-through tops should always have a thin camisole underneath to keep undergarments unseen.  Wearing the fun new styles, and keeping it classy takes extra effort.  We believe it’s worth it and absolutely REASONABLE.

Stylist: Dana Roquemore

Photo Credit:  Joanna LeMasters and Taylor Flumerfelt

NO MAKEUP FOR A WEEK

I remember traveling to Quito, South America years ago with a ministry that I was involved with. On this particular trip I had made a pact with the girls on the team that I would NOT wear any makeup for the whole time. Being considered "high maintenance" is somewhat of a problem when traveling with those that are not. But I gladly agreed, accepting the challenge. Actually though, not being able to look in a mirror, fix our hair, or wear stylish feminine clothing was not really a problem for any of us. The focus was on meeting the needs of others. We journeyed deep into the Amazon rain forest. Our team traveled on a bus up steep single lane pathways until we hit a mudslide where all traffic was at a stand still. We continued on foot until we were able to jump in the back of a pick up truck, then camped with a YWAM base, and flew in a 6 seater prop plane into a small village in the middle of the jungle. As we landed on the dirt runway we witnessed the killing of a pig that would be served in our honor at a dinner later that evening.

Standing out in my mind were the children of this village. They had extreme cases of head lice which were clearly visible with their dark hair. Yet without toys, running water, or electricity, these children were all smiles the entire time. We didn't speak the same language, but we communicated through the missionaries that traveled with us. The way the people of this village worked together as a team, respecting each other and our group of outsiders, spoke volumes about their character.  They made more of an impact on my life than I could have ever made on theirs.

In America, we don’t live in extreme environments where we are FORCED to consider the needs of others. In our country, in many ways we are pushed to do the exact opposite.

WE CONSIDER OUR OWN WANTS AND NEEDS.

We want attention.

We will get attention from immodest behavior and dress.

Therefore, we must push the lines of immodest behavior to get the attention we desire.

Honestly, it appears many people, young and old, men and women, are completely aware of the affect they have on the opposite sex with how they dress. Yet this knowledge inspires more immodesty and not less.

How we looked as young women in this particular environment, more than others, was not important. These people were just interested in the love and message we had to share.  Even though most of us viewing this blog do not live in a third world country, is it nonsense to consider others when we get dressed in the morning? Should we feel a responsibility for the weakness of others? Do we want people to be considerate of our challenges and struggles in other areas? Does dressing modestly always keep someone from sexual thoughts? If you believe in the Bible as we do, what does it have to say about prioritizing the needs of others over our own? While many of us don't live in a third world country, what can we learn from people and culture who prioritize the group over individual wants?

Written by:  Sarah Powers

These are some of the actual photos taken on the mission trip described above.

TRENDS FOR CHEAP

This month we will be featuring fashion posts that are vintage, eclectic, and CHEAP.  To accomplish this look all you will need are a pair of colored jeans, a men’s style blazer, and some riding boots.  It may seem out of the box, but this would look great on most body types.

We would like to say a special thank you to Dana Roquemore. She offered her services to us for this month’s fashion posts, styling our girls in clothing from her own clothing swap shop, Other People’s Property. She does consignment in a way that would make any piece look interesting and desirable, and yet these pieces are affordable for everyone! You can purchase the items featured in this post from her Other People’s Property online etsy shop. Or you can find pieces similar on your own consignment shop adventure!

Resist the urge to buy a “boyfriend blazer” from a department store. Most consignment shops are full of men’s blazers in all sizes that you can buy for super cheap. The shirt under this blazer is a sleeveless style that is tied at the bottom. New clothing styles in shops like Urban Outfitters show vintage looking tops like this for $30 and higher and are often see through! We recommend looking for this style top at consignments.

Tip: If you choose to tie the shirt at your waist and/or wear a see through vintage fabric, we recommend keeping your belly button and bra covered by wearing a light weight undershirt. SAME LOOK. NO SKIN. Reasonable. ☺

Tip:  Skinny jeans and tall riding boots make this outfit work.  Don’t feel confined to wearing tops and jackets that are tailored.  A large men’s style jacket can actually help you feel more comfortable in a pair of snug jeans.  Also, skinnies can often be “painted on” if you buy a size too small.  While skinny jeans are meant to be more fitted than other styles, they should not RESTRICT MOVEMENT.  Buying for your body type is a whole other subject.

Now her clothing is all from consignment, but her accessories are not!  We definitely need to offer alternatives to these accessories which can be pricey!

In place of the exceptional Tory Burch Riding Boot, we have found another super cute riding boot for $48 for you to consider.  We also found a "dupe" Michael Kors tortoise shell watch from Target for $14.99 which is similar watch to Michael Kors in the image above for a less expensive price.

Photo Credit:  Joanna LeMasters and Taylor Flumerfelt

Color Blocking

One of our favorite trends of 2012 that will carry into the next is color blocking. For those of you who don't know, it is wearing two complimentary colors to create a bold look. Here, Emily has paired a green sweater with blue skinnies to achieve color blocking. Because it involves two prominent colors, make sure you have fun with accessories. Add a pattern, sparkle or textured piece, like Emily's pearl collared shirt, to offset the brightness of the outfit.

Photo Credit:  Beth Carter Photography

MODUGLY

Fabric that is big, ugly, unflattering, and sweltering hot… Does this come to mind when you think of modesty? In 2013, we'd love to take this old term and give it a new definition. But where do we look to define Modesty? Who should define it? Should cultural standards impact our decision? Should we encourage young women to be set apart from society in how they dress when the options for such are so limited? Should we even have a blog promoting modesty, when “modesty" itself is based on the lack of self-promotion? There are many noble causes, should the way young men and women dress even matter in the grand scheme of things? The answers to these questions vary from person to person. But within the fabric of our society is a thread of faith. Faith should inspire growth, change, and healthy standards of behavior in many different areas. Modesty in conduct, which includes the way we dress, is a Christ honoring principle AND a healthy behavior choice.

How then do we determine what is and what isn’t modest?

There is more than one dictionary to define words and phrases. The Webster’s Dictionary was once the place to look; now ANY online site claiming to be a reliable source is used. The Urban Dictionary is quite crass at times, but I found their definition of the word “modesty” to be humorous and thought-provoking. It states, “Modesty is the art of enhancing your charm by pretending not to be aware of it.” This is a secular view which implies people who aim for humility are really actors striving to draw more personal attention. Why does secular society see a humble or modest expression, reflecting one’s desire to honor God and others rather than oneself, as pretentious? This social media, “like my post,” driven society is desperate for attention. We are so desperate that we buy what we can’t afford, pretend our life is what it isn’t on Facebook, and work to gain a following to feel like we “are somebody.”

Here's a valid thought…Wouldn’t young men and women wear styles that are more modest if their music and television role models dressed in more modest clothing? I believe they absolutely would. The need for ATTENTION we all have, gets a strong fix from shock value. SHOCK VALUE occurs as a response to loud and obnoxious opinions, “in-your-face” behavior, and “I’ll wear what I want” styles. This cycle of attention fulfilled through shock value promotes selfishness and more risky societal behavior.

What to do? We can’t redefine modesty in totality because it represents an ever changing principle influenced by the culture, faith and upbringing of its time. It isn’t a term anyone can give absolute guidelines on.

And the look of a modest woman has changed so much over the years. At Top Buttons, we debated whether or not to even use the term “modest” at all, because of the disgust most teens have when they turn the term over in their mouth. It appears that modesty makes most young people think of layering big ugly clothes and gives the feeling of "being controlled." We discussed whether we should use the word “classy,” but that infers “rich” by many people. We do like the phrase “fashion with extra fabric,” but this is a bit long to replace “modesty” with. We also know some other religious communities might be offended by our standard of the term which does not reflect their own. While we respect modest style expressions, at Top Buttons, we recognize that extreme modest styles could be impractical and not easily attainable for young women who do not sew their own clothes and want to dress in a way that doesn't alienate them from their peers.

In 2013, we resolve to talk about, encourage, and redefine this principle with all who are interested. We would love to have you weigh in on the matter. Is it possible to redefine modesty? Or should we throw it out and use a new term? Can we help young women to see this term in a different light? We’d like to know…what do you see when you think of modesty by today's standards? Do you feel it's reasonable to encourage young men and women to have some boundaries in their clothing styles? Why or why not?

Photo Credit: Elizabeth Garrard

Written By: Sarah Powers

Christmas Wishes and a Pretty Party

Our goal of providing a more modest option for fashion trends seems insignificant as we reflect on the devastation that many are dealing with now as the year comes to an end. The ugly truth is that we can patch up, cover up, and pretty up our face and our culture with programs and good deeds, yet not get to the root of the problem...(I'm not denying the VERY significant value of such.) But what we truly need is a love that is strong enough to work from the inside out. At Top Buttons we believe that the hope and restoration found in Christ Jesus is the only power strong enough to overcome the heartache of this world. We must help, love, show kindness, and serve each other as much as we are able to. For this shows the love of God to people in direct tangible ways. But we are not and never will be the Savior. There is only One that came to "seek and save," and only One with the power to do just that. (Luke 19:10). If we could save ourselves, God wouldn't have sent His son to this earth to die in our place for the redemption of mankind. This Christmas season, we are thankful that we don't have to earn our salvation, it's a free gift.  If accepted, it is more than life changing. We can all attest to that.

With that being said, we have much to be grateful for.  The past two months have been a whirlwind as we have worked to create content that is note worthy, Christ honoring, and helpful for young women. We just had to get together one more time before the girls left to spend the holidays with their families in their homelands. Here are some pictures from our TB team holiday soiree that we would like to share with you. This Christmas season, be inspired to dress with dignity and respect as you enjoy the company of family and friends.

We'd love to welcome a new photographer onto the team! She is a budding teen with a passion for snapping photos and it has been a pleasure working with Elizabeth .

Board Member, Katie Deloach (Middle), hosted our Christmas Party.  We appreciate her hospitality!

We will be on a blogging break for a week.  Next year you will see more Modest Solutions posts, Video Tutorials, and also some NEW ELEMENTS to the Blog that will be revealed in January!

Merry Christmas from the Top Buttons team.  May your holidays be filled with love and peace no matter what you face this holiday season.

Photos by: Elizabeth Garrard

'Tis the Season to Sparkle

Dress | Tights | Booties | Necklace | Earrings | Ring

There are so many bright lights twinkling in lieu of the holiday season. Who said party attire for this time of year can't sparkle just as brightly? This red shirtdress is perfect for any holiday occasion. It can be worn dressed up with some statement jewelry, or dressed down will a pair of tall boots and infinity scarf. Worn here, we pieced it with simple, sheer tights and black wedge booties. Whatever you wear to a seasonal get together, don't be shy to add some luminous jewelry to your outfit.

Photos By: Beth Carter

Polish for the Holidays

A Ciaté Giveaway

Every girl loves beauty products; especially free ones! That's why we are pleased to announce our very first giveaway is a Ciaté Velvet Manicure Set! If you aren't familiar with Ciaté products, you should be. They are known for nail polishes with textured finishes and dynamic colors. A $20 value, this set includes a 0.45 oz Paint Pot Nail Polish, Crushed Velvet Powder, Little Black Brush and a Clear plastic tray. We're excited to hear from you and see who wins!

There are a few ways to enter. If you choose to enter through posting on the blog, be sure to comment directly on the blog post at the bottom of this page. For extra entries, tweet each day about the contest and where you plan on wearing the nail polish.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Boyish Charm

Sweater (similar) I Shirt I Jeans I Shoes I Bag I Earrings I Watch & Bracelets: Alex and Ani I Spikes

Boyfriend jeans are the perfect way to achieve a playful menswear look. While you can go for a complete menswear outfit with a blazer and loafers, adding girly pieces offsets the masculinity and creates a charming pairing. Even though this cool combination consists of a button down shirt, the overlay of a sequined sweater top gives it the perfect balance of both styles. An over-sized watch completes the look.

Tips on how you can achieve a look that is stolen from the boys:

- Mix girly pieces (sequins, colorful tops, feminine shoes) with one or two boyish ones (boyfriend jeans, oversized watch, button down shirt).

- If you pick a masculine top, choose a feminine bottom. And vice versa.

- Even the slightest details like a simple oxford shoe can imitate menswear.

- If you choose boyfriend jeans that are slouchy, offset them with a structured top.

Photos By: Beth Carter

A Timely Statement Piece

This week we are featuring pocket watches from the Etsy shop, Ingredients for Lovely. Accessorizing with long necklaces is trendy, and with these long chains you can look cute and tell time. What we love about this shop is there are so many different kinds of watches and almost all of them are under $20. Wear one of these timely pieces with a looser blouse or dress to add a touch of charm.

Photos by: Kayla Danielle

Buttons & Brushes for Samii

 

Meet Samii, a 14 year old Gilmore Girls fan from Kansas City, Mo. She is down to earth, adorable, and wise beyond her years. When I asked her to share her thoughts on modesty she spoke with grace and clarity saying, “Modesty reflects your character.” Samii spoke to me about how your inner beauty is just as important as your outer beauty. She believes that you need to spend time and invest in both. Samii also said that your clothing reflects who you are on the inside. “If you are dressing inappropriately it doesn’t give the right message of who you really are.” Well said, Samii.

Before the makeover, I spent some time with Samii to hear her thoughts on fashion. I wanted to work with her in creating a look from her own wardrobe that would reflect her unique personal style. When chatting with Samii, she shared that some of her style icons were Jennifer Anniston, Reese Witherspoon, and Julia Roberts. She appreciated their simple, yet stylish look. In spending time with Samii it was clear that she loves the natural, classic look. So when going through Samii's closet for her makeover, I pulled a nice structured jacket and paired it with a classic striped top, skinny jeans, and baby doll flats. I accessorized the look with a patterned scarf, some small gold earrings in the shape of a flower, and of course an arm party! I wanted to stay true to Samii's foundation of simple style, but also incorporate some fun accessories to add a youthful touch.

For her make up, I kept it natural. I used neutral brown tones on her eyes and soft pinky browns for her lip and cheek color. Samii has naturally beautiful skin so I applied a thin coat of foundation and set it with a sheer powder. I also used bronzer to define her cheekbones, and add a little warmth.

Also used:  Maybelline “Define A Lash,” Very Black

For her hair, I did loose curls. I wanted to bring a little sophistication to her look, but at the same time keep it fun and playful.

Samii looks beautiful in her new classic chic look!

Photos and story by: Rebekah Miura

Trail Blazer

 

                                                         Blazer I Blouse I Jeans I Flats I Sunglasses I Purse I Earrings 

Wearing a blazer over any top can easily dress it up; especially a blouse. Worn with dark skinnies, it can achieve a sharp and collected look. A colorful shoe, characterized by small details add a playful touch without stepping away from sophistication.

Photos By: Beth Carter Photography

GLAMIFY YOUR HOLIDAYS

Here are some treats that you can use to glamify your or a friend's holiday season. This gift list provides products that can all fit perfectly into a stocking as well as make for cute single gift ideas. So, now there’s no excuse not to have a fabulous gift for Secret Santa and Christmas parties alike. 1.Lip Stick Duo 2. Brush Set 3. Peppermint Lotion 4.Its-a-10: conditioning spray 5. Mini Straightener 6. Snap Happy: Nail Polish

7. Silver Glitter: Nail Polish 8. Starry Eyes: Liquid Eye Shadow

WRAP IT UP for < $25!

Gift giving marks the Christmas holiday. Buying presents for family and friends can quickly add up and get quite expensive. Here are some fashionable finds that are all under $25 that are sure to bring a smile to any recipient!  

1. Sparkle and Shine Bobbi Set

2. iPhone Case

3. Carole Spike Bracelet

4. Xhilaration Pajama Set

5. H&M Cap

6. Dangling Faux Gem Earrings

7. Cashmere Blend Gloves

8. Bow Trouser Sock

Boston Beauty with a Skyline View

My name is Anastasia and I am from Boston, Massachusetts.  I love shopping, reading, meeting new people and being active! What is the craziest thing that I have ever done? Skydiving from an altitude of 14,000 feet! I received my undergraduate degree at Southeastern University in Lakeland, Florida. Attending college has opened up many doors and given me some amazing opportunities. In the summer of 2011, I was chosen to intern for the Department of Defense in Washington D.C. Going to work in the Pentagon everyday was definitely one of the most surreal experiences. I absolutely loved my college experience at Southeastern, which is why I decided to continue on in pursuit of my Masters in Business Administration there as well. I will graduate with my MBA in December of 2013.

My mother worked hard to instill in me an appreciation for modest clothing choices at a young age. Middle school was rough, and thinking back on my middle school experience, I can remember having a difficult time navigating through a desire to fit in with my peers and a genuine curiosity as to the different trends in fashion. While the desire to fit in began do dissipate during high school, it was replaced by an overpowering and increasing desire to truly discover and embrace my own uniqueness and independence.

Looking back on both of my middle school and high school experiences, I can offer two pieces of advice to anyone curious about how to make it through the complicated social politics of middle school and the increasing desire to gain independence during high school:

Tip #1: Your clothes will never make people like you. It is the way that you treat people which will truly shape how others see you and who you will one day become.

Tip #2: In life, it is not about “fitting in.” It is about standing out. And what will truly separate you from everyone else will be your courage to do what is right, determination to make your dreams a reality, and standing firm in your values and beliefs.

It is important to understand that modesty is not only evident in the clothes that we wear, but also in each decision that we make. I mean, that is what life comes down to: a series of decisions. We all mess up.  It is not about being perfect.  It is about learning from our mistakes and the mistakes of others. My boss always tells me “Try. Fail. Learn.” It is that simple.

Being a part of Top Buttons has been an amazing opportunity, and without a doubt one of the best decisions that I have ever made. Let Top Buttons truly be a resource for both fashion and inspiration. Ask questions. Do not just succumb to the definition society assigns you.

Stand out and soar!

Love, Anastasia

My beanie in the photo was made by a friend of mine! Email her if you would like to order for just $12.00! Merutledge_msw@yahoo.com

Photos by: Taylor Flumerfelt