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)

5 Shopping Tips To Save You Money

Shopping and saving money are both things that we enjoy doing. Preferably at the same time! Whether you're shopping in-store or online, there are ample opportunities to both save money and buy the things you want. 1. Clearance Events / Major Holidays - A few times a year stores have major clearance events and blow-out sales. Often times, these sales can take place on or around major holidays. Keep an eye out for super low deals, and be sure to snag them as soon as they are available.

2. Cash Back Rewards - Some stores have cash back rewards programs. Once a customer purchases a certain amount of items, the store will give a percentage or dollar amount off of their next purchase. For example, when you reach 2,000 points using your Ann Taylor card, you are given a $20 off rewards card to use on any purchase at Ann Taylor, Loft, or either of their factory outlets. The $20 reward is able to be used on any purchase within the allotted period, and can be combined with any other coupons or sales. Ann Taylor also offers customers the chance to earn double points during certain events throughout the year. It's fantastic!

3. Coupon Apps - Apps like RetailMeNot, Spendless and Shopkick are just a few coupon apps that are amazing for saving time and money. Don't check-out at the register until you have searched for coupons using one of these apps, you never know what deals they will find for you.

4. New Subscriber Deals - We are constantly discovering new online boutiques, and almost all of them offer money-saving coupons when you subscribe to their website. So make sure to always check and see what the perks are for joining a store's mailing list. A 10-20% off coupon may be sent to your inbox just for signing up.

5. Check Tag & Receipt - Always check the price tag and compare it to the receipt. This may sound like a no-brainer, but in the long run this tip may save you hundreds of dollars. Retail is always subject to human error, and a shirt that was tagged at $10, could end up costing you the original value simply because it was not logged into the computer system properly. Now, why should you have to pay for that error? The answer is - you shouldn't.

We hope these tips come in handy when making future purchases. Whether you're in the market for new clothing, textbooks or electronics, keep these money-saving tips in mind and keep more money in your pocket!

Written by: Anastasia Jones 

Image: Pinterest

The "It" Necklaces For Summer

Statement necklaces are constantly being reinvented each season. We've seen them covered in bling, decked out in an array of metals, and occasionally spikes. This summer's "it" necklaces are taking a walk on the colorful side. They are all about the tassels and pom poms.

These necklaces are festive, bright, and perfect for adding a bit of texture to an outfit. With a hint of boho flare, they add a touch of whimsy to your every day outfits.

Pom poms and tassels are definitely having a moment. You can find them on just about everything this season. Pillows, throws, bedding, purses, and shirts are just a few items we've seen trimmed in these popular adornments.

These necklaces range from simple to highly embellished. So whether you are a minimalist or someone who loves to layer, you are bound to find a style that fits your preference.

To purchase necklaces similar to the ones pictured above, click here and here.

Happy Styling, Rebekah

Photography by: Beth Carter

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

The Minimalist Life

The term "minimalist" refers to a person who prefers the minimum amount of something. In relation to fashion, a minimalist can often be found wearing neutral cuts and solid colors. This trend is sweeping its way to the top of everyone's wish list this summer. We are huge fans of the minimalist lifestyle, not only because it's both chic and classy, but also because its versatility leads to saving money!

Members from our staff, volunteers, and interns gathered to show off their minimalist looks! (The key to capturing a great minimalist #OOTD is to photograph against simple backgrounds.)

You'll notice that most of these outfits include some sort of outerwear, such as a jacket, vest, or kimono! Minimalists aren't afraid to layer!

Accomplishing this look requires minimum time and effort, which makes it a perfect match for the on-the-go free-spirited flow of summer! While some color is allowed, true minimalist outfits are thrown together with neutral colors that can be easily mix and matched, which is why becoming a minimalist is so affordable!

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

Our Top Summer Essentials (Video)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ny_R_vnuwAo&app=desktop

Don't Chuck Your Chucks

Annie's summer outfit incorporates two different tones of denim for a mix-matched yet casually put-together look. She threw a moto vest over a mint green top, paired it with cuffed jeans, and tied it all together with her classic white high-top Chuck Taylor Converse.

You can easily style a pair of these shoes by wearing them with any casual on-the-go summer outfit. These timeless kicks can be pretty expensive, but they last a long time and are incredibly versatile! So, let us help you find a pair within your budget!

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High-top Chuck Taylors Converse - Kohls - $55

These are authentic white high-top Chuck Taylor Converse, much like the ones Annie is wearing. The only difference is the red line detailing. For $55, you can own these!

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Women's Hazel Quilted Hi-Top Sneaker -Target - $35

If you'd like to save $20, Target offers quality inspired white high-top sneakers. These ones feature side zippers and quilted fabric, which adds an original flare.

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Jemma Hitop Sneakers - Cotton On - $30

If you don't mind paying for Australian shipping, Cotton On has GREAT look-alike shoes.

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Elisabeth Huijskens Photography

Just like always, we encourage you to do some price comparisons and even to do a little thrift-shopping or coupon-hunting for the best deal possible.

We give you permission to splurge a little though, because the white high-top Chuck Taylor Converse are a trend that keeps coming back.

Why You Should Invest In A Lace Dress

A lace dress is always nice to have in your clothing arsenal. It's classy, elegant, and versatile. What we love about this blush dress is that it can easily transition from day to night. During the day it can be worn with casual sandals or even wedges, and at night you can throw on some patent leather pumps for a dressier look. Lace is a wise investment because it's a classic, it will never go out of style. It always looks chic and polished.  Having quality dresses that stand the test of time are essentials to have our closets stocked with.

To achieve a similar look to the one pictured above, click the links below:

Dress | Shoes

What are some of YOUR closet staples that you can't live without?

Happy Styling,

Rebekah

Photography by: Elisabeth Huijskens

Summer Trends On A Budget

Summer is just around the corner and before you know it, you'll be tanning poolside (enjoying the sun) and making memories to last a lifetime! So here are two affordable summer trends that will help YOU look fabulous while doing it.

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1. White Pants:  The white pant trend can be worn in a variety of ways. Walmart's skinny dress pant is great for a summer job or internship; Forever 21's joggers are comfy for a casual day out with friends; and Target's palazzo pants make a bold statement and can be dressed up or down.

Walmart | Forever 21 | Target

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2. Flower Crowns: These cute hair accessories make us ladies feel extra feminine and fairy-like! They come in subtle styles with small flowers or even giant head-turning arrangements. Flower crowns are most popular for a trip to a summer festival, but they definitely can be added to any outfit to conceal a bad hair day.

Charlotte Russe | Forever 21 | Target

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Whether you're working with a $5 budget or have loads of money to dish out, investing in these two summer 2015 trends will make for priceless photo-ops!