Blogger Style: Get The Look For Under $100

Boyfriend shorts, panama hats, and striped shirts are just a few of my favorite items for spring and summer. I absolutely love this look worn by style blogger Kat Tanita. It's perfectly casual, yet chic all at once. On a recent stroll through Target, I came across a few items that looked very similar to Kat's look. To my delight, the entire outfit was under $100. This is an amazing deal, especially since the Rag and Bone shorts alone from her look are $209! Although, I love  Rag and Bone, a cheaper alternative is always a plus. Also, there is a promotion going on now through March 28, buy 1 get 1 50% off clothing, shoes, and accessories. That makes this outfit even more affordable!

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your keys and head over to Target! Let us know if you score any deals!

Shirt / Shorts / Sandals / Hat / Sunglasses

Happy Styling!

Rebekah

The Watch Trend You Need To Know About

This spring, update your accessory arsenal with a new watch. Step outside the usual chain link bands and try branching out with leather. Leather bands add a classic, sophisticated feel to an outfit. Check out these 6 stylish timepieces! 1. Marc Jacobs never disappoints. This white watch is perfect for spring!

2. Daniel Wellington watches are timeless, classy and versatile. You can easily switch out the bands so that you get more bang for your buck.

3. This Nixon watch is clean and modern. We love it for it's simplistic design.

4. This Aldo watch comes with 4 additional bands for a mere $35! This is a great deal period.

5. Kate Spade is known for her girlish charm. This watch is adorable!

6. We just had to include another Marc Jacobs watch in the line up. This watch is edgy and fabulous.

Will you be branching out with a new watch this season? Let us know in the comments below.

Happy Styling,

Rebekah

Why Kari Jobe Wins Best-Dressed for March

At Top Buttons, we are always looking to draw inspiration from women who are  smart, talented, and classy. Singer/songwriter Kari Jobe fits these descriptions perfectly. Her many roles include worship pastor at Gateway church in Texas, Dove award recipient, Grammy nominee, and recently, wife to hubby Cody Carnes.

While Jobe is well-known for rocking neutrals, we absolutely love how she chose to add a bright pop of emerald green to her outfit. This is a great piece to draw inspiration from with St. Patrick's day just around the corner. Kari Jobe illustrates perfectly how green can be mixed with other pieces to tone down the vibrancy of the color and keep the outfit d0-able.

We love everything about this classy, cute and fun look. For this particular ensemble, Jobe chose to add classic oxford heels in a pretty mustard-color, sticking to her vintage-style roots in a subtle way. We love oxfords and their recent comeback over the past year. Choosing a pair with a heel like Kari did adds a little dressiness to her frock, leggings and casual scarf. She chooses to accessorize with bold nails and a stack of bracelets.

Kari Jobe is one lucky lady, but we adore her for being such a brilliantly talented Christian role model for girls of all ages. What's not to love?

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Written by: Katy Abramowich {Image via Pinterest}

Genesis & Jenny - A Fashion Feature

Genesis Rosario & Jennifer Suarez are two university students with a passion for fashion and an aptitude for adventure. We had the privilege to document a day in their lives out and about on a windy Tampa afternoon.

Get the scoop on where they purchased all the adorable clothing items they used to put their one-of-a-kind outfits together.

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The SECRET to Jenny's outfit is that her tutu skirt is actually a DRESS from Forever 21. Spaghetti strap tops aren't her favorite, so she cleverly paired it with a cute graphic tee from Old Navy.

"I decided to tie a knot on the side to tone down the look," says Jenny.

Her Peep-Toe shoes, gifted Silver Necklace, and Stacked Pearl Bracelets are all from Forever 21 also!

"I love the look because it's super girly but it's versatile enough to make it a little less dressy simply by pairing it with a tee," Jenny adds.

To see more of Jenny's style and read about what runs through her mind, check out her blog here!

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"My outfit is a really comfy and neutral combination," says Genesis.

She wears a Black Leather Jacket from Forever 21 that features zippered pockets with a silky inner lining!

  Her cargo green pants were purchased from Aeropostale and also have zipper embellishments, which make the ends of the pants adjustable. Similar pants can also be found at Kohls.

Genesis has an extraordinary eye for thrift-shopping! Both her floral statement necklace and her striped top were from the thrift store!

 "I got the Striped shirt from Goodwill and it has half-long sleeves. Its pretty soft and it has black ruffles at the end, making it look super girly," explains Genesis.

 Last but not least are her dark brown Chelsea Boots from Target. 

"The small heel makes it comfortable to walk and wear all day long," Genesis raves!

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We hope you've enjoyed seeing how these two ladies styled their outfits. If anything you saw in this article inspired a purchase or outfit choice, make sure to COMMENT BELOW or tag us in a picture on Instagram.

Whether it's throwing around some confetti, traveling to a new city, or having a spontaneous photo shoot like these two ladies, we encourage you to go out and do something that brings you JOY!

How To Wear Flared Denim

Are you ready for a 70’s fashion revival? Flared denim is back in full force this spring and we couldn’t be more thrilled. Not only is this trend ultra chic, it’s also highly flattering and elongating. For all of you petite girls, your in luck, these jeans will make you look taller we promise! Check out the images below to see how you can pull of this “groovy” trend.  

Denim on denim

Annabelle Fleur: Viva Luxury

White on white

 Aimee Song: Song of Style

Belted with a lightweight top

 Sarah Yates: A House in the Hills

Pair with a blazer

Sydney Poulton: The Daybook

Long layers

Liz Schneider: Sequins and Stripes

Chances are you already have a pair of flared denim tucked away in your closet, but for those who are still looking for the perfect pair check out our picks below!

Express Mid-rise Flare Jeans, $88

J Brand High Waist Jeans, $198

H & M Flared Jeans, $49.95

Happy Styling,

Rebekah

Younique 3D Fiber Lash Mascara Review

When I first received my Younique package I was instantly excited when I saw the fancy packaging. The chic black hard case is the perfect first impression for this game-changing mascara.

After just one application, I knew Younique was more than mascara. This was my chance to transform my lashes from dull to noticeable in the matter of minutes.

Using the transplanting gel for the first time was a similar experience to using my old designer mascara. I stopped using drug store mascara a few years ago, and have become accustomed to the volume that $40 mascara gives my lashes. I have to be honest, sometimes the money is worth it, and sometimes it is not. After using Younique one time, I knew that this product delivers significantly better results than my $40 mascara.

What is the difference? The proof is in the Natural Fibers.

I've tried some fiber mascara products in the past, but none hold a candle to Younique. I love that the fibers are 100% natural, and they are made from Green Tea. How cool right? Lashes get thirsty too ;)

Once I put the Natural Fibers on top of the Transplanting Gel, I noticed that several fibers were on my cheeks. This alarmed me a bit. I thought I was doing it wrong. After re- reading the instructions, I realized this was normal. I soldiered through and finished off the look with the transplanting gel for the second round, and was amazed with the amount of volume I saw. As for the fall out from the fibers, just use a clean powder brush and dust them off.

I will be the first to say, this product takes some getting used to, but if you use it for 1 week, and don't love it- I would be surprised. After six days I felt like a pro, and the best part- I don't have to compromise my water proof routine, and Younique will cost me less than my old designer mascara! Cha-ching!

To purchase Younique mascara, click here.

Written by: Molly Dodd

Photos and Styling by: Rebekah Miura

How To Wear Kimonos This Spring Video

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=85-2ooIJQLE&feature=youtu.be

3 Ways To Style A Classic Set Of Pearls

Looking for a great statement necklace that can stay with you through the years? Try opting for a set of pearls. Pearls are a timeless piece that every girl must have! Each set of pearls often tell a story; whether they are passed down from one generation to the next or a heartfelt gift given on a special occasion. The classic look of pearls make them a great accessory for not only evening wear but for a casual outing as well. Let's take a look at how you can incorporate this timeless accessory into your everyday attire. Pearls are the perfect accessory to this collared shirt and striped sweater. We love the unexpected addition of distressed denim that gives the outfit a relaxed yet sophisticated look.

 You can never go wrong when styling pearls with a traditional look. This charming camel belt embellished with a bow compliments the elegance of the pearl necklace. Pair it with a sweater and fun skirt and the outfit is complete.

Layering Pearls is a great way to add some depth to a classic look. Try incorporating some of the latest army and plaid trends as shown below to make your outfit pop!

Whether you are dressing for the day in a casual pair of jeans or attending a formal occasion try accessorizing with a great set of pearls!

*Images via Pinterest

Written by: Amanda Jacobs

Christian Fashion Week 2015

Top Buttons intern Ashley Lumetta and staff member Alexis Gauthier had the pleasure of attending Christian Fashion Week 2015 this past weekend in Tampa, FL.

Our encounter at CFW was one to remember! We love their values that founder and host Jose Gomez presented at the beginning of the show and reminded us all throughout the evening. "Christian Fashion Week wants people to know that we C.A.R.E. about Contextual modesty, Affordable fashion, Responsible usage of natural resources, Ethical labor practices."

On that note, enjoy this recap of some of the runway designs from the show!

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Noka Posh seemed to trademark her collection with  A-line dresses. Some were over-sized while other dresses had a fitted waist-line, as pictured. Her dresses were feminine and versatile. She paired some with pants, others with tights, and still some with bare legs. Noka Posh is gifted in creating long-sleeve dresses in particular, a style that is becoming increasingly popular.

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 The "After I Do" Collection took the models on a chronological journey of what a bride and groom might wear down the aisle and then to events throughout their honeymoon. We really appreciated designer Constance's bright colors and detailed seams.

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Designer Angel Myers (pictured in the bright pink fringe dress) designs with size in mind, and we value that so much! Her attention to body curves in her designs is so flattering for any shape! Again, there are lots of bright colors in this line which is ideal for spring and summer wear. A white dress serves as a nice blank canvas to accessorize with bright jewelry and big hats.

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 Aleksandra Designs presented a lot of business attire, and while most of her line is made for the workplace, there were a plethora of concepts to appreciate about her designs that can inspire fashion ideas for your own style of attire.

Aleksandra is bringing back the mid-waist belt, as seen in three of the outfits pictured. This trend cinches any outfit in to create a slimming waist with a peplum affect.

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Messiah Couture blew us away with their elegant detailing of beads, sequins, and fabrics. What surprised us most is that this collection was the designer's very first debut in the fashion world. These gowns are perfect examples of colors, textures, and shapes for the upcoming prom season.

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Essence Flower's line featured all black-on-black outfits. Each model wrapped tulle around their face, almost like a veil. The outfits were made out of a mixture of leather and tulle with creative one-shoulder or off-the-shoulder necklines. Each outfit was a unique piece of art in an of itself!

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One of the highlight's from the night was Julia Chew's "Firebird" dress. In 2013, Julia Chew was discovered as a designer at Christian Fashion Week. Since then her career in the design industry has launched forward in success.

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So, in response to what we saw at CFW, here's eight fashion take-aways trends from the runway:

1. Long Sleeve A-Line Dresses
2. Bright Colors
3. Big hats
4. The color white as a classy & clean canvas
5. Mid-waist Belts
6. Lots of sequins!
7. Leather and tulle
8. BLACK is ALWAYS in style

All in all, our Top Buttons team members had a FABULOUS time representing on the red carpet, making connections behind the scenes, and marveling at the latest trends in the fashion industry.

How To Shop The Latest Trends Without Breaking The Bank

It's not always affordable to keep up with all the trends, especially when the brands marketing the hottest new items are typically expensive and the trends change so quickly that by the time we make one investment, something new is in stores.

Something I love to do is go to designer websites like Free People and Levi for my fashion inspiration, and then Google search the key words from those items to find something similar but more in my price-range!

By no means am I saying to stop shopping at the more expensive stores altogether, because the truth is they have QUALITY long lasting products... but I am suggesting you choose wisely which trends you're willing to invest more money in than others.

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Here's two side-by-side comparisons showing just how much money you could save by purchasing your items elsewhere!

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If you like what you see, here's where to purchase:

Free People Exaggerated Fringe Necklace | Walmart Fringe Statement Necklace

Levi Boyfriend Jeans | Walmart Boyfriend Jeans

2015 Oscars Celebs Rock the Red Carpet and Instagram

The night of the 2015 Oscars once again guaranteed that celebrities walking the red carpet at the Dolby Theater would be dressed top-notch. Actresses sported dresses by the best of the best designers. This past Sunday night left viewers 'oohing' and 'ahhing' while perhaps some young ladies also gathered inspiration for their 2015 prom dresses. We loved this years' dresses for their timeless elegance and our best picks are just that– classy and stunningly beautiful.

Gweneth Paltrow, who was a presenter for the night, was captivating in a feminine pink Ralph and Russo gown. She stuck with a more classic-shaped dress and we absolutely love how she chose to show off the elegant neckline and bold flower by sleeking her hair back and accessorizing with blingy, bold earrings. The look was one of the more polished of the night.

We were swooning over 18-year-old actress Chloe Moretz's Old Hollywood glamour look for a few reasons.  First of all, she rocked ear cuffs which are a HUGE trend that we love. Her hair style choice and makeup showed off her natural beauty, and how fun are the pockets on her beautiful floral-print gown by Miu Miu? The subtle pattern and champagne color mixed perfectly, proving that floral patterns are still hot.

Reese Witherspoon is an actress who is well-known for dressing with class and top-notch style and this year she was stunning yet again on the red carpet. Notably, her and Chloe both decided to wear their blonde locks down with a center part. While a center part is not for everyone, we love how it tones down the formality of the extravagant dresses and makes the look seem do-able for a viewer wishing to draw inspiration for prom. Also, while Witherspoon may not have received an award that night, she rocked the Instagram game that day, documenting her entire day of Oscars-prep and giving shout-outs to Tom Ford for her amazingly flattering black and white gown and Tiffany and Co for her dazzling jewels.

An Event to Support Top Buttons Locally

Thank you for your interest in joining us for our Top Buttons Fundraising Luncheon Event!  Top Buttons is a non profit 501(c)(3) organization based out of Lakeland, Florida.  Not only do we have an online fashion magazine filtered with modesty in mind, but we are working hard to equip and inspire young women locally through our styling and educational services! We have asked Wendi Braswell to be our guest speaker because she shares our passion to inspire and equip young woman to feel confident in themselves for all the right reasons!  Wendi Braswell is a fashion expert, closet cleanser, personal shopper, image developer, public speaker, wife & mom of teenage boys based out of the Tampa Bay Area.  With over 25 years of experience in the fashion industry as a model & actress, she found her true passion in helping others develop their style. Wendi has been inspiring women of all ages to be honest about their body issues and to stick together as women.  Cafe Zuppina will be catering the event with their delicious organic Turkish food.  This lunch is meant to be a quick, fun, inspirational and refreshing time for all who attend!    

• After purchasing your ticket through paypal, your name will be added to our Guest List. You do not need to bring a receipt to the Event.
• If purchasing multiple tickets, please email us the names of your Event guests along with your name to info@topbuttons.org.
• Table Sponsors receive 8 tickets, a special gift, and recognition on the day of the event.

Top Buttons Fundraising Luncheon

Ticket for 1 $35.00 USD Tickets for 2 $70.00 USD Tickets for 3 $105.00 USD Tickets for 4 $140.00 USD Sponsor a Table $300.00 USD

For more information please email us at info@topbuttons.org

The Purple Hair Craze

Purple hair has been fading in and out of the spotlight for the past year. Kelly Osbourne and Nicole Richie have led the charge for this bold color choice. And as of late, Katy Perry caught our attention when she rocked purple hair at the 2015 Grammys. Celebrities aren't the only ones loving this hair trend, images of dyed locks have taken Pinterest by storm. Above are just a few of the images that stood out to us. So….what are your thoughts on this wild hair trend? Would YOU dare to go purple? We want to hear from you! Let us know in the comments below.

Happy Styling,

Rebekah

Redefining Valentine's Day for All the Single Ladies

Valentine's Day can be one of the most dreaded holidays amongst those who are single. Some jokingly admit it's S.A.D. (Single Awareness Day). Personally, throughout the years, I've struggled with the frustration of seeing all the couples around me and wondering when it would be MY turn. However, the concept of Valentine's Day is suppose to be about SELFLESS LOVE, so let's commit to redefining Valentine's 2015. Here's THREE innovative ways to redefine the holiday:

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1. Learn To Appreciate Some "YOU" Time: Without a significant other in your life, it's way too easy to dwell on the fact that you're solo, but there is NO BETTER TIME in your life to invest in yourself than in this season. In other words, take some time to rest and pamper yourself! Curl up on the couch, eat your favorite flavor of ice cream, do your nails, read a good book or watch your favorite movie.
2. Rally Up Your Other Single Lady Friends: Okay, so maybe a night in and alone isn't your scene! That is perfectly okay. Rally up a group of other single ladies and adventure out. Go see a new movie, dine at a fun restaurant, or even have a single ladies gift-exchange! The possibilities are endless.
3. Spread The Love: Yes, Valentines Day is centered on LOVE, but you don't necessarily have to dwell on the romantic aspect. Why not spread some positivity and love in the world? Visit a nursing home and love on the residents; write encouraging notes to a handful of important people in your life; or even offer to babysit your neighbor's kids so that they can enjoy some couple time.

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So whether this is your first single Valentine's Day or you've been single for a while now, do something DIFFERENT to return Valentine's Day to its origin of love. Love yourself, love your friends, and even love strangers.

1 Corinthians 13:4-8 Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never ends. As for prophecies, they will pass away; as for tongues, they will cease; as for knowledge, it will pass away.

Valentine's Day Cards For Everyone

Valentines Day is the perfect time to celebrate the people we love. You don’t have to be in a relationship to enjoy this special day. Why not use this occasion as an excuse to tell your friends and family how much you love them? Above are 6 beautiful card options to inspire you. All can be purchased  here and here. If you’re a creative person who loves arts and crafts, making your own V-Day cards is a great way to add a personal touch. This is my favorite option, because it allows you the freedom to customize each card for your loved ones.Need some ideas before you get started? Check out this DIY Valentines Day card tutorial.

Strapped for time and money? No worries! These FREE printable Valentine's Day cards are easy and adorable.

So what are you waiting for, make a list of people you love and start crafting a meaningful card that is sure to brighten their day!

Happy Styling!

Rebekah

My Edgy Valentine-Celebrity Style Inspiration

Who says that a stunning Valentine's Day look has to be cutesy, pink, and lacy? Whether you have a Valentine this year or not it can be fun to pick out an outfit for February 14th. This spring, leather jackets are popping up everywhere which makes it easy and affordable to copy the red-hot looks of Emma Watson and Jessica Alba. It also makes it easy to stay warm and covered while sporting a dress--a timeless Valentine's look. Jessica is wearing a classic A-line red dress which we love for its longer length. The look is flattering and appropriate but still edgy. Throw on some black Ray-Ban style shades to complete the look.

Emma Watson is always a style-icon favorite. Her pop of plaid mixed with her leather is another great way to pump up a classic red dress look for the romantic holiday.

Forever 21 has an array of red dresses just in time for February. We suggest reusing a red holiday dress from Christmas that you may already have in your closet.

Leather jackets and red dresses can all be found at Forever 21 for under $40, making it easy to put together your own edgy Valentine's look this year.

For more sweet and fun Valentine's Day outfit ideas, check out the link below!

Valentine's Day  Outfit Options

Written by Katy Abramowich

Editor Obsessions: February

February is the month when we are ready for the cold to be over, and dream of warmer days. That’s probably why most of the products on my February edit are a bit on the colorful side! Here are a few items I’ve got my eye on this month. 1. With the cold, gloomy days that have been lurking, this beach print is sure to brighten up the home.

2. This Crosley record player needs to be on my credenza asap! I adore this color, it's charming and playful all at once.

3. I love this  butter gloss from NYX. It’s a vibrant peachy/ pink color that makes me feel like summer is almost here.

4. I am always updating my desktop wallpaper. Thanks to Design Love Fest I have a ton of FREE options to choose from. I think I will start with these geometric shapes!

5. Lately, I've been on a MAJOR organization kick. These inexpensive Ikea storage boxes have brought much needed order to my bookshelves.

6. This Bumble And Bumble Dry Shampoo is a daily beauty staple of mine. It gives the perfect amount of volume and texture to my hair.

What's on your February must- haves list?! Let us know in the comments below.

Happy Styling!

Rebekah

Dorm Life: Sharing Closets And Friendships

"A flower does not think of competing with the flower next to it. It just blooms." -Source Unknown

. . . and that's the beauty within the friendship of these five ladies.

Barbarah Reynolds, Jennifer Suarez, Nikki Kemp, Lexus Potts, and Alexis Gauthier each come from such different upbringings and have such diverse passions, so it's so unique to see this specific combination of ladies crossing paths.

What's truly amazing is that they each encourage each other to be uniquely themselves.

Enjoy this mini lookbook of outfit details from their Wynwood Walls experience.

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Jenny wears a light-weight high-low cotton dress from Forever 21 with a tan Fedora hat.

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Jenny's hat is so versatile, that Barbarah snagged it for her outfit as well!

Barbarah's World Changer shirt was custom made at a T-Shirt Press station at Trinity Church's 2015 Girflriend's Conference.

The principle behind this picture: You don't have to be SEEN to be a world changer.

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Alexis has the same World Changer tee that Barbarah does, except the foiling on her design is actually a BOLD GOLD color.

"I wanted to keep the bold theme by adding my $7 leather pants from Plato's Closet."

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Lexus and Nikki have such separate but put-together styles! Lexus' black and white combo is classy, while Nikki's bright colors are boho!

Lexus' oversized striped top is a great canvas for a blue jeweled statement necklace. Similar accessories can be found at Walmart.

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Jenny and Alexis are actually college roommates, and they choose to challenge each other in JOY.

This photo captures the very idea of Luke 6:23 "Rejoice in that day and leap for joy, because great is your reward in heaven."

How To Style A Felt Hat Video

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DNss6-GLIxY

The Trend That Will Spice Up Your Winter Outfits

Looking to add a little edge to your winter attire? Take a cue from some of our favorite fashion bloggers by rocking a pair of black jeans with exposed knees. Yes, you heard right, ripped jeans are being worn even in the cold. It may sound foolish, but it’s hard not to love these street style looks that are popping up all over our instagram and pinterest feeds. Still need some convincing? Check out these images for some fashion inspiration.

{Christine Andrews // Hello Fashion}

{Jacey Duprie // Damsel In Dior}

{Lucy Williams // Fashion Me Now}

{Kaitlyn Ham // Modern Legacy}

Shop the look here:

Asos, $60.64 / Topshop, $70 / Free People, $78 / 7 For All Mankind, $139 (sale)

OR

If you don't have a ton of extra cash and have a pair of old jeans lying around, check out this tutorial from Free People on how to make your own distressed denim.

Happy Styling!

Rebekah