Black Friday 2014

Black Friday is THE one day a year that all shoppers look forward to. To assure that you don't miss out on any sales or deals, we've searched the internet high and low to make 2014 the BEST Black Friday experience.

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Websites:

1. BlackFriday.com This website makes shopping easy with an app that is available on both iPhones and Androids. Some of its features include: a Wishlist on the Go, the ability to Find the Best Deals, and the selection of Your Favorite Stores ... ALL at your fingertips.
2.  bfads.net This website provides a list of ads from local stores such as Amazon, Best-Buy, Khol's, Sears, Target, and more. It even provides up-to-date information on what times stores will be opening and closing on Black Friday.
3. RetailMeNot.com: This is an excellent website and app to have handy when looking for deals all year-round. It serves as an added bonus during Black Friday! It's constantly being updated with a forum of new deals and promo codes.

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Phone Apps:

1. Black Friday Slickdeals: Some of the best features of this app include the ability to set up alerts when a desired deal goes live, the advantage of chatting with other deal-hunters for advice and insider-tips, and special access to Black Friday information.
2. Shop Savvy: This app allows you to SCAN the barcode of an item in store so that you can compare it to prices at other stores in real time! Most results will even include reviews on the item too!
3. Your Favorite Store: Chances are that YOUR FAVORITE STORE has an app specifically designed just for your shopping pleasure! Go to the app store and search your store of choice. Why not get your deal and coupon information straight from the source?

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Deals:

1. Forever 21 is having a Thanksgiving One-Day Sale, with 40% off hundreds of styles! By visiting the link, they'll show you a countdown til the sale goes live. Chances are, they'll have a Black Friday day sale too!
2. Express is one of those stores you admire from afar but typically only shop at when they have a good sale. Black Friday is the prime time to score at Express. Make sure to stay up-to-date with their website and social media posts to see what sales are in store.
3. Asos is providing an early sale for up to 70% off, but they are also going all out for Black Friday AND Cyber Monday. We recommend signing up, so that you can be the FIRST TO KNOW about all their exclusive offers.
4. Target is the perfect place to shop because you can literally make all your Christmas purchases at one store. They have such a wide variety of items ranging from electronics, to grocery, to home decor, to fashion and more! Check out their Black Friday catalog online.

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We hope these Black Friday apps, websites, and deals make your 2014 Black Friday shopping experience more efficient and enjoyable. Make sure to leave a comment and let us know some of your favorite places to shop for Black Friday, and maybe even share your shopping tips too!

May the Black Friday sales be ever in your favor!

Top Makeup Bag Essentials Video For The Everyday Girl

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dgn-cEA4fYs

Alexis' Affordable Winter Look

Winter typically has a stigma of being an "expensive" season. Aside from the mile-long list of presents to buy for all your loved ones, the cold weather is another reason to break the bank. In other words, it's so cold outside that layering up is essential, and we all know that more layers means more money... unless you know how to shop with an thrifty eye.

Take a look at the outfit details in Alexis' winter look with some accompanying links to where you can purchase similar items.

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Lace Peplum Top - $2 at Plato's Closet

Plato's Closet is a store that sells gently used second-hand clothing. Because they're always buying and selling, their inventory is ever-changing and each shopping trip is a wild-card experience. Alexis' top was only $2 during a sale, but it had the original tag of $40 from Kohls.

Purple Skinny Jeans - $2 at Plato's Closet

Again, these were purchased during a HUGE sale at Plato's Closet. Colored pants are super trendy, and this shade of deep pinkish-purple is popular this winter. The pants Alexis is wearing even has a metallic tint to the denim. A great benefit of Plato's Closet is that you can sell your own clothes to the store (as mentioned in our article on Tips for Buying Cheap Clothes), and use the pay as credit towards your purchases.

Boots - $30 at GoJane.com

Although the $30 range may not seem like an affordable look, keep in mind that there are just some items WORTH investing in, such as a good pair of boots. In retrospect, this price is actually great compared to other stores. However, a $30 purchase may take some time to save up for, so when spending this amount of money on something, ask yourself: how often will I wear this? Is it versatile and comfortable? And, how long will this last me?

Denim Jacket - Borrowed, but $12 at Forever21

The denim jack pictured was borrowed from a friend, which is a great option to have when you want to "try before you buy". About a week later, Alexis found a similar one on the sales rack at Forever 21 for just $12 (marked down from about $25). We linked a page of similar jackets available at Forever21, because we believe a denim jacket can be paired with most outfits.

Dooney & Bourke Purse - $10 at Salvation Army

Dooney and Bourke is a classic brand that sells "All-Weather Leather" handbags. Alexis happened upon this authentic vintage cross-body at Salvation Army during their 50% off Wednesday sale, it was $20 marked down to $10. The bag would have easily cost between $100-$200 at a store like Nordstrom or Dooney.com.

Stud & Pearl Bracelet Combo - $2 at Charlotte Russe

If you've ever gone to check-out at a store and got distracted by all the inexpensive items near the line, then you probably ended up spending a little bit more money than intended because you couldn't resist the alluring deals. That's what happened with this bracelet set at Charlotte Russe on a rack labeled 'All Items $1.99'.

TOTAL: $58

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Photography by:  Elisabeth Huijskens // elisabethhuijskens.com 

Makeup by: Yolanda Delacerda and Christi Northington

The Perfect Plaid Shirt

Every Fall I look forward to the return of pumpkin spice lattes, scented holiday candles, and PLAID SHIRTS. In pursuit of the PERFECT shirt I have searched high and low to round up my top picks for this season’s star wardrobe staple. Here are six shirts I’ve got my eye on. 1. Madewell makes an excellent modern plaid shirt. This color is called "warm berry" and it is perfection. I love the lightweight material and the muted colors.

2. This second Madewell shirt had to be included in the roundup. I love the color combination and the slim fit of this shirt. I'd consider this one a MUST for my Fall and Winter wardrobe this year.

3. Gap's red and black fitted boyfriend shirt is extremely popular and for good reason. The plaid is a staple color combination that will never go out of style. This shirt is ultra soft and has a tailored slim fit to it that is very flattering.

4. J Crew's boyfriend shirt in bluegrass plaid is a bright, happy shirt. I love the comfy, thick material and the relaxed fit.

5. Target has an impressive array of plaid shirts available this year. It's always nice to have a lot of "options" right at your finger tips. A price tag of $22.99 for this shirt is also very appealing!

6. Old Navy is another store that has a ton of shirts to choose from at a lower price point. This poppy, blue plaid is a "fun" color combination to add to your shirt collection!

Have you found the perfect plaid shirt yet? Let us know where you scored yours in the comments below!

 Happy Shopping,

Rebekah

Our Forever 21 Fall Favorites On a Budget

Not only do we love Forever 21 for the John 3:16 inscription on the bottom of all their shopping bags, but they also have extremely affordable prices. At Top Buttons, we've done all the research for you and have narrowed down their fall selection into a compiled list of 11 items that are around $15 and under.

1. Shimmering Floral Bib Necklace

This necklace is on sale for just $2.99. Its gold shimmer is both glamorous and functional.

2. Coconut Body Lotion

This body lotion is on sale for just $1.99. Forever 21 sells a variety of scents that smell amazing and are incredibly hydrating.

3. Kitschy Rhinestoned Woven Bracelet

This bracelet reminds us of those knotted friendship bracelets we all made and exchanged as children, but just a little more glamorous! For just $1.99, this arm candy could be yours.

4. Faux Leather Moto Jacket

We recently did an exclusive post about those trendy moto jackets that have become popular this fall, and Forever 21 offers one for $12.60 that will keep you up to date with the current trends but spare your wallet.

5. Woven Fringe Scarf

Everyone needs a neutral scarf to keep warm and spice up a plain outfit. This scarf is $8.80 and comes in multiple colors. The fringe adds a nice edge.

7. Bun Donut

Want to accomplish a perfect bun? A bun donut will do the trick. Forever 21 offers a diverse array of sizes for $1.90, depending on your preference.

8. Burgundy Beanie

Burgundy is one of the prime colors of fall, and it is especially great for accessorizing with items like beanies, leggings, or scarves. This beanie can be purchased for $3.90 or 2 for $6.

9. Solid Knit Leggings

Why not get some burgundy leggings to match your beanie? Forever 21 sells these knit leggings for $3.80 in eight different colors. They're a very essential staple to pair with an oversized shirt or dress.

9. Pretty Tough Bangle Set

Want a little bit of edge to add to your outfit? Try this bangle set, which is only $1.99 right now. The stud and pearl combination is a contradiction of sweet and tough.

10. Classic V-Neck Sweater

Sweater or cardigan -- whatever you call it, at Top Buttons we think that you just can't have enough of them! They're a convenient way to both cover your shoulders and keep warm. This particular one is sold for $13.80 in three different colors.

11. Low Rise- Ankle Skinny Jeans

These may be the most affordable and flexible pair of jeans you could ever own. This pair is $7.90. (Alexis owns several pairs of these.)

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For your convenience, we took a screenshot of what all these items would tally up to in your Shopping Bag on Forever 21, which is only $53.95. If you divide that by 11 items, that averages to less than $5 an item!

Want MORE articles on Fashion Cents? Comment below with what you want to see!

Our Favorite CMA Red Carpet Looks

On Wednesday, November 5th, the 48th annual CMA Awards aired on ABC. This event, known as "country music's biggest night" brought in a total of 16.1 million views. Carrie Underwood and Brad Paisley returned as co-hosts on this popular show. The fashion is always glamorous at these events, and this year did not disappoint. Here are four of our favorite red carpet looks from this eventful night.

1. Host Carrie Underwood looked beautiful as always in a golden ombre Lorena Sarbu gown with intricate crystal embroidery. This high low dress was the perfect way to show off her Jimmy Choo shoes.

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2. New country starlet, Lucy Hale looked classy in this red Romona Keveza silk crepe gown. We love her choice of a bright red lip to complete the look.

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3. Pop sensation Meghan Trainor wore an elegant lacy, blue dress by Monique Lhuillier.

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4. Cassadee Pope wore Aidan Mattox. This chic black top looks absolutely gorgeous with her metallic skirt and statement necklace.

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 Did YOU have any favorite looks from the night? Let us know in the comments below!

(photos 1-3 provided by USA Today, photo 4 provided by E!)

Trends With The Editor: Jogger Pants

Jogger pants could possibly be Fall's best trend. Why you ask? Because they are both comfortable AND chic! You can curl up in them to watch your favorite movie, hit the gym, run errands, and then magically transform into a glamorous fashionista with a quick change of shoes and accessories. To show just how versatile this trend is I've rounded up three ways to style these pants. 1. The first look has a casual-cool feel about it. A white tee and converse are dressed up with faux leather joggers, a wool coat and black clutch. Want to know the best part about this look? It's ALL from Forever 21! Chic, comfy, and affordable just how we like it, right ladies?

2. The second look features a pair of J Crew joggers paired with a structured blazer, sneakers, and a sporty bag. By day you can run errands in style and by night you can easily swap out the sneakers for heels, the bag for a clutch, add some sparkly accessories et voila your ready for a night on the town!

 

3. The third look is styled by Mara from M Loves M. It is a dressier way to wear the jogger pant and it is my personal favorite. Anything paired with a moto jacket and heels is a winning outfit in my opinion. Can you believe these pants are from Old Navy?!

 How would you wear this trend OR would you wear it at all? Let us know in the comments below!

Happy Styling,

Rebekah

A Must Have For Your Closet: Knee-High Boots

Knee-high boots are a must have pair of shoes that every girl should have in her closet. These flattering and stylish boots can complete the perfect outfit, whether you're wearing a pair of cute shorts or a fancy dress. Knee-high boots come in a variety of styles and colors so finding a pair to wear with your favorite winter outfit should be an easy task.

Charlotte Russe has a variety of knee-high boots at an affordable price. They have boots with or without heels, different colors and boots with belts and buckles. Finding a pair of knee-high boots that fit your personality and style can be easily accomplished at Charlotte Russe. You never know, you may even find a pair on sale!

Shoe Dazzle is another great place to purchase some of these trendy shoes. Shoe Dazzle even personalizes shoes for you off of a quick survey based off of your likes and dislikes. The experience of having pairs of shoes picked out for you is fun and easy, and can make shoe shopping enjoyable.

Francesca's is a cute boutique that focuses on trendy styles. Wearing knee-high boots is a fashion statement, and Francesca's will help you create that statement with the boots they sell. The whimsical style they present is perfect to finish off that outfit you've been dying to wear.

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Knee-high boots can be expensive depending on the brand and style, however, there are always sales and stores, like Charlotte Russe, Shoe Dazzle, and Francesca's, where you can find the pair of knee-high boots that will fit your style at an affordable price. Knee-high boots are definitely one item you must have.

Written by Rachel Jordan Photos by Elisabeth Huijskens // elisabethhuijskens.com Makeup by Yolanda Delacerda and Christi Northington

The Moto Jacket: Your Fall and Winter Essential

Moto jackets (a catchy, shortened name for motorcycle jackets) are this fall and winter's go-to staple piece to create that edgy layered look. Today's moto jackets come in a countless variety of colors, patterns, and styles. Whether you're edgy, earthy, or eclectic, you'll have no problem finding one that fancies your taste! You can find them just about anywhere, and they range anywhere from $20-$200 depending on where you look.  This piece is a classic fall/winter item, so it's worth the investment to get one that you really love! Chelsea is showcasing her edgy, eccentric flare with this black and white crackle textured moto jacket by Sam Edelman.  She paired it with a graphic tee and ripped jeans (another HUGE trend this season). Don't be afraid to mix different textures and patterns!

Chelsea is also wearing a two-toned Moto Jacket, another new spin on this cool classic. The neutral tones and natural fabric make this a versatile piece that can go with many outfits. Chelsea purchased this amazing organic linen jacket for more than half off at the Eileen Fisher store!

Moto jackets can be worn with just about anything from a feminine printed dress to your favorite old t-shirt! Find one that's the right cut and style for you, and you'll be ready to effortlessly step out in style this fall!

PHOTOGRAPHER:  Elisabeth Huijskens    www.elisabethhuijskens.com

MAKEUP ARTISTS: Yolanda Delacerda and Christi Northington

Editor's Picks: Lipstick Guide

It's not a secret that I love lipstick! I am constantly swatching lip colors at beauty counters EVERYWHERE whenever I can. Plum is always a Fall/Winter staple of mine, so this week I made it my mission to find the perfect shades to add to my beauty stash. Here is what I found. Enjoy! 1. Urban Decay Venom  is probably my top pick out of this batch. I love that it is a "brighter" plum lipstick. Darker shades can sometimes make you look tired, but this one has a brightening ability to it.

2. Smashbox Fig has a modern, sleek feeling. It is described as a red-grape color. It's not too light and not too dark--it's just right.

3. Laura Geller Cabernet Crush is a creamy plum with pink undertones. It's a gorgeous color!

4. Bare Minerals Lead The Way is a rich plum berry. It is the ideal Fall/Winter lipstick color.

It's your turn! What are some of your top picks for plum lipsticks? Let us know in the comments below!

Happy Styling,

Rebekah

Spice Up Your Fall Wardrobe with These Accessories

Fall is our favorite time of the year. It means cool weather and a new fashion wardrobe. Here are some ways to spice up your wardrobe with these stylish accessories. Boots are a great add to your classy fall wardrobe. These boots range in different colors and in a variety of heel heights as well. According to the Zoe Report, the knee high boot is one of the top five must have accessories for fall 2014. Boots can be expensive, but shopping at your local Target or Forever 21 is an affordable alternative.

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Glamour gives the 12 must have accessories for the fall, and one of those is the chain-strap mini bags. This is an edgy, hands free accessory to add to your favorite fall outfit. Adding a colorful bag to your outfit can make you stand out and pop.

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Jewelry is another way to complete your favorite outfit this fall and winter. Cuff bracelets have become quite the trend this year. It is simple, yet classy and will go great with practically every outfit. Selena Gomez’s fashion line, Dream Out Loud exhibits many different styles of cuff bracelets at an affordable price.

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As the cold weather rolls in, scarves are a great way to stay warm while looking super cute. Any scarf can complete an outfit. It can add a splash of color to your look. Infinity scarves have recently become a major trend, and there are many different ways you can wear infinity scarves.

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All you need to finish your favorite fall outfit is the perfect accessory. So grab those accessories and rock that favorite outfit!

(Featured image provided by The Zoe Report)

Written by: Rachel Jordan

6 Stylish Makeup Bags

We spend lots of money on our beauty stash so why not invest in a pretty carrying case? Transport your makeup in style with these ultra chic cosmetic bags. See that super cute black and gold polka dot bag above? It's only $6.90! With a price like that, tossing your old makeup bag and upgrading is absolutely within reach!

Don’t forget to comment below and let us know which one is YOUR favorite!

 Love Birds LA // Steph & Co // Urban Outfitters

Herschel Supply Co // Target // Forever 21 

Happy Styling,

Rebekah

Top Buttons Halloween Costume Contest

Attention all Top Buttons fans and followers!

We are hosting our second annual Top Buttons Halloween Costume Contest. You can enter by submitting a photo of your creative Halloween Costume on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Here's how to enter:

1. Follow & Like TopButtons on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. (Make sure your profile is set to public, so we can see it.)
2. Post a photo of your creative costume on social media.
3. Tag @TopButtons and hashtag #TopButtons.

The contest deadline is October 31 at 11:59PM. The winner will be chosen based on creativity and will be announced on November 1st.

Many will enter, but only ONE will win. Do you have what it takes to claim the $50 Forever 21 Gift Card?

Five Money-Saving Shopping Tips

 

1. Know what you're looking for.

• Have a general idea of the styles/trends that you want by making a list or bringing pictures of outfits with you.
• By doing this, you'll only purchase the things that you really want or really need.
• Pictured above is a Winter Trend Inspiration board we put together featuring some of our favorite looks, such as an army green utility vest, a maroon beanie, cut-out shoes, plaid shirts, and more! Carry something like this with you as you shop, or keep Pinterest and TopButtons handy.

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2. Compare prices & shop the sales rack.

• Before going to the mall, look up your favorite mall stores online and compare prices of similar trends so that you have a general idea of which stores offer what you're looking for. Keep in mind that online stores often vary in merchandise than their actual store, but it will give you a starting point.
• Go STRAIGHT to the sales rack when you get to a store. Put your "horse blinders" on and don't even look at all the cute stuff you can't afford, or else nothing in the sales rack will satisfy you.

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3. Don't buy on impulse.

• Ask yourself: do I REALLY want this, and have I wanted this for a while?
• Chances are, if you put the item down and come back to the store a few weeks later, it will still be there, and probably at a more affordable price.

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4. Use coupons.

• Never underestimate the power of a good coupon, rewards program, or a promo code!
• Stores like American Eagle, Styles for Less, and Khols all have rewards programs that benefit you the more frequently you shop at their stores.
• Type in the name of a store at RetailMeNot and they will usually have some promo codes you can use.

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5. Give yourself a budget.

• Tell yourself you're only going to spend X amount of dollars and STICK TO IT!
• Shopping on a budget can be a fun challenge if you approach it with the right attitude.
• You'll feel really good about yourself for NOT spending too much money.
• Make it a REALISTIC budget that works well with other bills or purchases you may have to make aside from fashion.

Our Fashion Cents Contributor and friends love a good sale.

Editor Obsessions: Style At Home

Bright colors, modern design, and a splash of gold are always on the "design menu" for me. I'm always on the hunt for home décor that has an upbeat vibe that is just plain FUN! Today, I am sharing ten of my current design obsessions, enjoy! 1. Michelle Armas Print: I love abstract art especially ones from this talented artist.

2. West Elm Glasses: These beauties are perfect for displaying on my kitchen shelves.

3. Ikea White Plant Pot: Having as many plants as I do can get expensive, that's why I always stock up on these inexpensive pots from Ikea!

4. Barn Light Electric Sconces: I love these delicate wall sconces. They are ideal for hanging next to the bed or by the fireplace.

5. DENY Designs Bedding: Ombre bedding in this color has such a calming effect, it's perfect for winding down at night.

6. Bello Pop Matches: I am always lighting candles so having a stylish box of matches to leave out on my counter is a must.

7. The Fashion Book: This gem is one of my top picks for a coffee table book by far.

8. World Market Coasters: Pink agate coasters...I'm in love!

9. Ikea Sheepskin Rug: For a mere $10, these rugs are great for throwing over the back of a chair... or two...or three!

10. Jonathan Adler Phone Dock: Charging your phone at night is essential, so you might as well charge it in style.

What's your design style? Let us know in the comments below!

Happy Styling,

Rebekah

Trends You Should Try This Winter

We couldn't be more excited for this winter season! Get an early start to preparing your winter wardrobe and take a look at these top three trends inspired by Glamour and Marie Claire magazine.  

Statement Jacket

This is a great way to add flare to a simple outfit. Whether you prefer a studded leather jacket or a bold printed one, there are so many out there to choose from this season. It will easily give you an eye-catching outfit. Similar // Patterned Jacket

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Knee High Boots

These boots are an absolute necessity for the winter season. They are a great item to help add edge to your outfit. If you find a comfy, flat pair then you will never want to take them off. Similar

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Anything Grey

Sweaters, jackets, dresses, skirts, pants, tops, you name it, grey is in this season. It's versatile and easy to match with just about anything. Similar

Our Top Five Wedding Makeup Tips

Do you know how important having a makeup artist is on your big day? Tricks like contouring and highlighting, making your makeup weatherproof, and being able to recreate current makeup trends are just some of the many reasons going with a pro is so important. However, some brides just can't work it into their budget so here are some tips for those who need to do it themselves: 1. Exfoliate the night before! Using a gentle scrub while in the shower will help to slough off dead skin cells leaving skin smooth, perfect for applying makeup.

2. Deep cleanse and moisturize skin prior to applying your makeup! This is key when prepping the skin.

3. Use a primer! If you want a flawless, poreless look, don't skip this step. It will give your makeup staying power and diffuse imperfections. We love the primer from Glo Minerals, but if you are a Sephora/Ulta girl Benefit's primer and Smashbox's Photo Finish primers are some of our fav's! Smashbox even has a color correcting primer as well as one for oily skin. If you are on a budget Loreal's Pore a Vanisher is a great dupe for Benefit's at a much more reasonable price.

4. Use an eye primer! Urban Decay's Primer Potion is excellent. Just get it, you will see! What you won't see are smudges, creases, oily lids or your eyeshadow disappear.

5. Practice before the big day.

As a professional makeup artist I strongly encourage my brides to do a run through prior to the wedding. This way the look can be perfected and there is no stress the day of. I love knowing ahead of time exactly what we are doing and what products I'm using. So practice on yourself so you KNOW your makeup will be perfect on the big day.

OH AND GET SOME COFFEE LADIES. - IMPORTANT TIP 6!

Article WRITTEN BY: Melissa Kinsey

and WEDDING MAKEUP BY: Melissa Kinsey

For Kaley Brie Fuson, our Bride in the images above, I used Glo minerals primers and Satin II Foundation. I used the Golden under eye concealer to highlight and under the eyes and the Perfecting finishing powder to set. I used Sunlight bronzer to contour and Hibiscus (a soft pink) at her cheeks. Since she wanted to look natural I used a few individual lashes and carefully placed them rather than using a whole strip of lashes.

Photo Credit: Ashley Holstein Photography

Miss America 2015 Best Dresses

Miss America 2015 was held in Atlantic City, New Jersey on Sunday, September 14, 2014. The winner was Miss New York, Kira Kazantsev, making it the third year in a row that a Miss New York won the Miss America crown. Take a look at two of our favorite dresses from the evening. The new Miss America winner just happened to be wearing one of our favorite dresses. She wore an elegant white gown with a high top and an open back.

Host Lara Spencer, of Good Morning America, was another favorite of ours. She wore a lovely dress with a solid black top and a white bottom with floral print.

(All images provided by Hollywood Life)

Join Us at The Porch Light's Shine A Light Weekend

Among the three anti-human trafficking groups that Top Buttons initiative Sozo United for Freedom has partnered with, we'd like to take the opportunity to spotlight The Porch Light's own efforts to end human trafficking. The Porch Light is Lakeland, Florida’s first safe house for sex trafficked underage girls. Along with providing housing, girls are provided with education, medical care, counseling, and spiritual discipleship.  On top of that, the organization is continually taking the time to educate the public on prevention and working to change laws surrounding this issue.

Sozo United for Freedom wants to invite everyone in the Lakeland, Florida area to join us in shining a light on human trafficking during Porch Light’s Shine a Light fundraiser weekend. If you desire to do your part to help end human trafficking we ask you to join the Top Buttons team on the weekend of the 24th.

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The Shine a Light weekend events include the following:

Shine a Light 5k

Friday, October 24 at 6:30pm Lake Hollingsworth 175 Lake Hollingsworth Dr., Lakeland $30 – after October 3 Register under team top buttons

Shine a Light Festival

Saturday, October 25 from 10am – 1:00pm First Presbyterian Church of Lakeland 175 Lake Hollingsworth Dr., Lakeland FREE

Shine a Light Gala

Saturday, October 25 at 6:00pm • Florida Southern College Branscomb Auditorium 111 Lake Hollingsworth Dr., Lakeland $50 – tickets include a performance featuring internationally-renowned recording artist Jason Castro, a former contestant on American Idol.

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Regardless of whether or not you live in the area, there are several more ways to get involved with the porch light, from financial donations, to volunteering your time.  To learn more about the porch light and ways you can get involved visit The Porch Light's home page.

Sozo encourages you to find ways in your local community to get involved and do your part to end human trafficking. Perhaps there is an anti-human trafficking organization where you live where you can volunteer your time.  On the other hand, if you are already involved in ending modern slavery, we would love to hear from you and what you are doing to help end this issue!

Top Four Halloween Costume Ideas for 2014

Halloween can be a fun holiday because it gives you the opportunity to dress up in cool costumes, but just because you’re dressed as a character that you’re not in real life, doesn’t mean you should abandon your standards or dress with different values than you have in real life.

We all have heard the stigma that, "Halloween is the one night a year when girls can dress like a total slut and no other girls can say anything about it," as quoted from the movie Mean Girls, but this couldn’t be more FALSE.

This Halloween season we – as ladies of the Top Buttons community – have the potential to change the status quo amongst our peers. In order to make this a more tangible goal, we’ve created a Pinterest board with tons of creative ideas we’ve seen on the internet, but here’s four of our FAVORITES, proving that you can have the look for less money, without having the look of less clothes.

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1. Be FOOD for Halloween!

We all know there’s an endless variety of food choices. Why not wear your favorite food? This gives you the opportunity to be extra creative in expressing your interests. We’ve included a few of our favorite foodie looks!

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2. "You're one in a minion," so why not dress as a Minion?

The Despicable Me movies may be a little old, but their notable Minions are the face of modern cartoons. A minion costume is a simple look to create, and can probably be put together with some items from your closet, the dollar store, or even a thrift store.

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3. Represent a Social Media Site!

This costume idea is so cute because it can represents today’s teen culture AND is good for a group of friends to do together. Purchase some basic colored Tee’s and paint the designs or print them out and apply with an iron-on. These ladies chose to pair their outfits with jean shorts and colored leggings, but you could even spice it up with tutu's!

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4. Save the day and be a Super Hero!

The greatest thing about these costumes is that it can be altered for as few or as many people as you want, because there’s so many heroes to choose from! Super hero shirts can be purchased occasionally at Wal-Mart,  or even made with some paint or iron-ons. Matching tutu’s can be made by buying tulle fabric at your local craft store, cutting it into strips, and tying those strips onto a belt or elastic. (For detailed instructions, check our Pinterest board)

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All in all, this Halloween season is not just about what costume you choose, but the memories made in the process! Post YOUR costume ideas on Instagram and Twitter and don't forget to tag us. We would love to see what you come up with!