Beauty for Ashes Nepal

The integrity, intelligence, compassion and determination with which Glenda lives her life inspires everyone who has the opportunity to meet her.  Who she is and what she is passionate about has been poured into every aspect of Beauty for Ashes.  To hear the stories, see the beautiful creations sold, and watch the development of this very special business in Nepal, leaves no doubt that God's hand is on Glenda and her business. And not just on Glenda and Beauty for Ashes, but the very deserving young women who benefit from being a part of her mission. 

Missions has always been a part of my soul. I have traveled to many countries for missions and even lived and worked in a church in Copenhagen, Denmark. Currently my sister, brother-in-law and their two children are missionaries in the Dominican Republic. My sister-in-law and her family have been missionaries to Peru and Spain for many years. To share the gospel of Jesus Christ, to disciple, and to provide resources to help people truly live a life with fullness of joy, despite their past or current circumstances, is absolutely everything.  It is such an honor to be able to partner with those on the front lines in other countries.  Serving God and fulfilling the calling He has placed on our lives is often far from easy, but everyone has a special role to fulfill.  We will continue purchasing fair trade items and supporting anti-human trafficking organizations, which is a part of how we hope to help build up young women around the world.  Top Buttons has a great selection of the exceptionally beautiful hand crafted jewelry pieces from Beauty for Ashes in both of our Boutiques.  This is a collaboration that we look to expand as it is our desire to support this organization and the many women it benefits. 

The words below were written by a staff member from Beauty for Ashes.  

When I first met Binti (name changed to protect identity) she was fearful and anxious. With eyes nearly always averted, she rarely smiled. One morning she was so overcome by fear, she nearly passed out. Lightheaded and shaking from anxiety, it became clear she believed the lie so many women around the world believe; that she had no value.

Life in Nepal for women is difficult. They are responsible for taking care of not only their own family but also their extended family and in-laws.  Cooking, cleaning, washing clothes by hand, and looking after children makes up most of their day. They rise early in the morning before everyone else to make tea and finish their day by being the last to eat dinner and then washing all the dishes. Often seen as second-class citizens with little rights, they struggle to make a living when they don’t have a husband or family. Those who have fallen prey to trafficking or exploitation are especially vulnerable to further abuse and poverty with little to no means to support themselves or their children. 

Beauty for Ashes Nepal (BFANepal) is a gift items and accessories manufacturing company.  We are privileged to walk alongside women breaking free from fear and shame through the transforming power of Jesus Christ. We employ women who are marginalized by society and those escaping exploitative situations. Many of our women have been told by society that they are not and will never be enough.

Within a few months of working with us, Binti became bright, more courageous, and full of joy. She carried herself differently and had the confidence to believe in herself. Through Christ’s love, Binti discovered the truth that she is valuable and loved abundantly.

We at BFANepal are incredibly honored to partner with Top Buttons as they empower young women to believe they are beautiful, encourage them to know their value, and present it to the world without compromise. As Top Buttons helps young women in the U.S. find confidence in who they are created to be, they are also helping women in Nepal learn who they are in Christ by purchasing products made by us.  As Top Buttons is teaching on topics involving self-esteem and purpose, BFANepal is also teaching Nepali women to be bold in their identity in Christ instead of being caught up in the shame so many women experience. We may be on opposite sides of the globe, but we are united in our missions to bring change to the way women see themselves, present themselves, and love themselves. - Erika Beelen

Living a Confidence-Filled Life

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Confidence; something us girls hope to wake up with, but just do not know where to find it.

We want to put on any outfit and feel good about ourselves. If we were honest, we would say that a good majority of the time we do not feel confident in who we are. I know in my case, when I was in middle school and high school, I felt no confidence whatsoever. I felt like I always looked bad in what I wore, that I did not fit in, and a lot of times, I felt like I was not good enough for anything or anyone. I am sure many of you feel or have felt the same way! Although I do believe that what you put on the outside will affect the way other people see you, I do not believe that is the most important thing.

The way you see yourself will be the way other people see you, and that comes from how you feel on the inside.

What is really interesting to me, and took a long time to figure out, is that weight does not matter.

What? I know when I found this out I was amazed too! I always wondered why I never felt good in my body, people would be like, “get over yourself, you're skinny”, but that never helped at all. There was still something wrong, and I continued to feel uncomfortable in my own body. I started to think and ask some people who seemed to be confident and healthy looking, and I was shocked with what I was told, it’s not about my weight, but it’s all about how I treat my body, and guess what, they were right. I started to regularly exercise, drink more water, eat whole foods, and cut out excessive sugar, and I started to see a change in my life. I started to feel more confident in my abilities and in my body.

Going back to the statement I made before, “The way you see yourself will be the way other people see you," is extremely important to still think about and apply on top of taking care of your body. Have you ever heard of the statement “you are what you eat?” Well this is kind of like that,  but more “you are what you speak.” Once I started telling myself I was pretty, smart, and successful, I started to become those things and people started to see the change in me!

So let’s ditch the statements that put us down and hold on to the truths we know to be true about ourselves!

TIP: Some days you are still going to wake up and feel not your best, but what I do every morning is declare to myself, “I will have a great day, and today is a day full of confidence!”

Want to know more about how to live a confident filled life? Stay tuned for more of our healthy living articles!  Next one, importance of drinking water and tips for drinking all the water you need in a day!

Why It Matters: School Dress Code and Tween Professional Attire

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Catherine (right) is wearing her Mom's solid black Tahari blazer.

From a Mom to a Mom... 

Self-expression at the Expense of the Group
Fighting with kids about what they wear is not a battle many parents want to fight.  I admit, it is a difficult battle, especially with the driving force of our culture being profit.  But teaching our kids how to dress, along with every other type of education, is very important.  A school dress code can be frustrating, most often not because of the rule itself, but because of the inconsistencies with the way it is enforced. However, parents should aim at buying their kids' clothing according to their school's dress code.  It is a battle worth fighting.   The deeper issue here is not the school dress code, it's allowing our kids to focus on the needs of self rather than the needs of the group.  I get it.  Reaching a common goal with a group is not easy, and it doesn't take much to distract people from the goal and take huge steps backwards, whether at school, work, or whatever.  Our culture places an emphasis on building one's own brand.  Serving the needs of self seems to be far more important than serving the needs of the group. Self-expression and developing as an individual is vital, but not when it consistently becomes more important than the love and service of others.

There will be a time and place where kids can have more freedom of self-expression than others.  Helping them understand this concept is very important in life.  While teaching young people the importance of dressing professionally for a job interview, we often address the frustration young people have with denying self-expression with their clothing.  Depending on the culture of the company you are interviewing with, often the employer is most interested in your willingness to work on a team, skills and experience.  Before a word is even spoken, an employer can get a good idea about who you are simply by how you dress.  If we won't teach our children to respect the dress code at school and care about the impact their clothing choices have on the people around them when they are young, they will likely not care about their presentation for a future job interview.  There are ways to stay true to self, all the while respecting the boundaries set in place for a common goal to be reached.  I tell my children all the time, when you are in charge, you can make the decisions.  Until then, respect the boundaries put in place for you and understand it is for the good of our family as a whole.  The needs of the group matter too.

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Professional attire has evolved and especially for women, it doesn't have to be boring to be acceptable.

Thongs are Easier to Find
Ironically it's not like dressing our children in adult-like styles is uncommon.  Bikinis are available for toddlers.  Thongs with "Call Me" are available for our middle schoolers.  From our tweens' favorite role models, the music they listen to, and the clothing we buy them, we are training up our children earlier than ever to focus on their bodies rather than who they are and what they have to offer as a whole person. Why is it we seem to quickly buy the most adult styles for our daughters, but putting them into professional attire when it's appropriate is so arduous?

I went to Nordstrom, my favorite store most of the time, to look for a blazer for my daughter.  (She often comes with me to volunteer at the Top Buttons Boutique and you better believe I have her dress in appropriate yet stylish attire.) Nordstrom had no blazers or structured clothing in her size. One of the reasons I love Nordstrom, is that you can always count on them to have the best customer service and the most current seasonal items available for every family member.  I know going into summer, there are not many moms looking for blazers for their pre-teens.  But I still had hope that they would have something along those lines, since I normally do not leave the store disappointed.  I even talked to the the kids' department manager about my concerns, who confirmed what I was thinking.  They had nothing of the sort for pre-teens.  Thankfully, H&M and Gap Kids had some options, and I snagged up a couple of pieces to pull off just the right edgy yet structured professional look for my daughter.

It really is easier to find a thong for our pre-teen than it is a blazer.  This is a problem. Our daughters are smart, strong, bold, and talented.  They are more than just a body.  Buying clothing from a young age which places an emphasis on their developing sexuality rather than who they are on the inside reinforces that standing out is connected with their body alone. "If your clothing is overly revealing, you may have difficulty getting attention for your ideas," states Leah Bourne, a contributor for Forbes Magazine.  While they are harder to find, a blazer speaks a much more powerful message about who our daughters are from within and what they have to give.

Brooklyn's Blazer (Left) is from H&M Kids

Clothing has Power
Yes, beauty comes from the inside out.  Let's keep working on that.  But we need to make sure we understand that what we wear affects the way we feel about ourselves internally.  The Journal of Experimental Social Psychology conducted a study called "embodied cognition" which revealed that we not only think with our minds, but also with our bodies. Further studies show that clothing directly affects the brain of the wearer depending on two factors: symbolic meaning and the physical experience of wearing the clothing. This is referred to as enclothed cognition.

So yes, What clothing is bought and worn by your daughter will affect the way she views herself.  This video explains the concept well.

Dressing in pajamas at school, will likely result in a more relaxed and less attentive student.  That actually makes sense.  Putting on all the newest, stylish running gear plus a pair of new Nike shoes, may inspire one to run faster and longer.  That makes sense too.  What about boho and relaxed clothing in the work place? ... What about seductive and revealing clothing on our daughters? Will it encourage our daughters to behave more provocatively? This is a question we need to ask ourselves. Most parents do want to give their children the resources needed to make healthy choices. Since clothing does impact decision making, we should place a high priority on filling our kid's closets with proper fitting attire.

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Pull it off with what you have in your closet already, plus one key structured item like a light weight sweater or structured jacket.

Contextually appropriate attire, or (contextual modesty) is simply "Clothing which fits the setting its being worn in"

Tips on how to get our kids wearing contextually modest clothing:

• Ask them questions to get them thinking:  What message do you want to send with this outfit?  Where are you wearing it to?
• For a potential job interview, study the culture of the company to find out the appropriate attire to wear
• Give them options
• Encourage them to do it from a young age and it will come more naturally when they are older
• There will be places they can have more style freedom.  Give them opportunities to have more freedom in other settings.
• Help them to recognize the importance of group goals over their own
• Buy them clothes that fit them properly
• Support role models who dress creatively but tastefully.  Steer clear of those who reinforce self-absorption, provocative behavior, and disrespect.
• Shop together and find what you both like

Other ideas for accomplishing the professional pre-teen look:

• Put on your favorite romper accompanied by one of mom's blazers and roll up the sleeves
• Throw on a nice spring dress with appropriate coverage and a low heel. It looks tasteful and will work great for most business casual settings
• Loose fitting trousers or harem pants can even fit the part if paired with a structured top
• Depending on the event, even black denim pants with a simple neutral top and bold color blazer will send the right "I'm here to work" message

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Final Thought
I remember a conversation I had once with a dad about the clothing his daughter was wearing.  The story went something like this: Mom and Dad were divorced.  Mom always bought the daughter whatever clothing the daughter wanted.  She was a tall and beautiful young woman, with the shortest shorts and often very provocative attire.  Dad took out his frustration on his daughter, often griping and complaining about what she wore.  I offered a potential solution for Dad to take his daughter shopping with the only condition being that Dad will only buy it if he likes it.  Knowing that Dad sees the problem and is offering a solution rather than just complaining is a step in the right direction.  You may be fighting a battle you feel like you are losing.  But as a parent of a beautiful, tall pre-teen daughter myself, I can say that teaching them the importance of sending the right messages with their clothing is important enough to sometimes fight about.

If we don't educate and equip our daughters on how to present their best self on the job, at school and in life, the fashion and media industry will.  And we may not like the outcome.  I would recommend we start by finding them a blazer.

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Cheney's Yellow Blazer is from Khols

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Makeup was done by the one and only, Yolanda Delacerda.  We love you!

A huge thank you to Beth Carter for jumping in as photographer.  She photographed our very first Top Buttons photoshoot back in 2012 and has been such an encouragement ever since.  Her work is exceptional and she captured the essence of what I was looking for with this article, perfectly.

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Building Up Girls on #GivingTuesday

"Giving Tuesday" is coming up quickly on Tuesday, December 1st.  It's an international day of giving back, and we knew you would be interested in an opportunity to provide greatly needed clothing to some very deserving young women!  Would you consider sponsoring one at-risk young woman at $100 to receive our unique Top Buttons Wearing Confidence Program?  Through our program, these young women receive confidence boosting educational sessions, new wardrobes of proper fitting clothing, and much more. Did you know we provide our Wearing Confidence Program to the young ladies of PACE Center for Girls, Porch Light, Heartland for Children, Youth Villa, the Dream Center, Girls Inc, and More?

WHAT TOP BUTTONS HAS MEANT TO PACE CENTER FOR GIRLS, POLK:

"PACE Center for Girls, Polk has had the privilege of a partnership with the amazing Top Buttons organization.  The collaboration between the two non-profit programs, has benefited the PACE girls in a myriad of ways.  Every month, several of our girls are able to participate in the Top Buttons Wearing Confidence Program at the Top Buttons Boutique.  There they learn many necessary skills while having a good time with the wonderful staff.  The Top Buttons team teaches girls how to dress appropriately for a variety of occasions, while maintaining their own sense of style.  Girls have the opportunity to try on an assortment of clothing and accessories through which they take new wardrobes of quality clothing for free. This exercise allows girls to have a hands-on experience while receiving input from the staff.  As part of the program, professionals teach girls how to apply make-up and style their hair in a trendy but appropriate manner.  The Top Buttons staff also comes to the PACE Center to educate our girls about topics surrounding self-esteem and positive body image.  These experiences have meant a great deal to the PACE girls. Through a meaningful approach, they are receiving valuable guidance.  Girls return to school after visiting the program elated and with increased self-esteem.  They also share what they have learned with their peers. Girls within the PACE program, are now working diligently to earn the privilege of this experience. It is something they all strive to be a part of. A big "Believing in Girls" thank you to the Top Buttons non-profit organization for your investment in the girls at PACE Center for Girls, Polk!"

- Marge Connelly, Social Services Manager at PACE Center for Girls, Polk

Top Buttons Wearing Confidence Program Recipients with their personal stylist in the pictures featured below.

Through our Wearing Confidence Program these young women are educated on many topics including:

"How to Dress for Job Interviews & the Workplace" "Feeling Confident from the Inside Out" "Understanding the Impact of Culture on Clothing Choices"   "Importance of Contextual Modesty"   ...AND we don't just educate these young women, we provide them with the clothing resources and tools they need to present their BEST self in every day life.

*in addition to the educational sessions, these young women receive a wardrobe of properly fitted attire, make-up with application and skin care tips, and on-going mentorship and volunteer opportunities within our boutique*

Give $100 to sponsor one girl today (click here) or keep us in mind for  #GIVINGTUESDAY. We are asking every person reading this post to sponsor 1 at-risk girl at $100. Or do what you can, every penny counts!

This year, we have had over 200 at-risk girls participate in our Wearing Confidence Program and we hope to double that number in 2016. Through this #GivingTuesday Campaign, we hope to partner with over 200 people to fund our Wearing Confidence Program through May of 2016.

Thank you for your time and support.  Please share this post with anyone who you feel would also be interested in what we are doing at Top Buttons.

The Perfect Everyday Summer Look

The best summertime outfits are the ones that are quick and easy to put together and throw on for those last-minute plans. We think Annie illustrates this idea perfectly, and oh-so-adorably.

We love pretty summer looks that are low-maintenance. Hair is probably best when kept as natural as possible since heat usually equals frizz! Minimal makeup is also a good idea. This season is the best time of the entire year to let your natural beauty shine and let those sun freckles make their grand appearance. Really all you need is a little powder and a few swipes of waterproof mascara.

We are all about fun accessories here at Top Buttons and love the idea of a few stackable bracelets to subtly dress up an outfit. Right now, we are obsessed with Cotton On's foundation bracelets. They're only $1-$2, which makes stacking them affordable, and best of all, 100% of the proceeds get donated to Cotton On's charity.

Muscle tees add a little edge to a look. Stay comfy and covered by throwing on a bandeau top when choosing a top with sides that dip slightly.

The casual take on denim that is super hot right now is a cute cuff at the bottom. Make sure your jeans are skinny enough so that the cuff is hugging the leg! Converse (Annie is rocking white Chuck Taylors) is a perfect comfortable throw-on sneaker that is fun and timeless.

To purchase items similar to Annie's, check out the links below:

Muscle tank / Bandeau / Jeans / Shoes / Bracelets

Photography by: Elisabeth Huijskens

Get the Look: Kristin Cavallari

This Hills and Laguna Beach star is known for being spotted on the streets wearing some of the hottest trends in the most put-together ways. We love Kristin Cavallari (who is now a mommy of two!) for her simple, classy style and the way she mixes trendy pieces with timeless pieces. She provides wearable looks that are oh-so-cute and oh-so-easy to copy!

Move over, little black dress! The LWD is the hottest classic look for this summer. A white dress can be dressed up or down (just like a black dress) and can be mixed with almost any piece. We love the way Kristin wore her white maxi dress with a classic denim jacket.

Drapey pants are making a huge comeback this season. They're adorable, versatile, comfortable (perfect for summer traveling), and come in an endless array of patterns. What's not to love? Kristin dresses her drapey pants up with low heels and a casual white top which matches the pattern in her pants. We also love the idea of going all-out comfortable and pairing them with Birkenstock-style sandals (a hot summer item).

Lastly, Kristin was spotted wearing a simple, yet stunning outfit while shopping on the streets. Her distressed denim adds a casual flair to her leather shoes and black top, adding a subtle edge to her sleek look.

Dress | Drapey Pants  | Jeans

50th Annual ACM Awards: Our Picks For Best Dressed

April 19th was a star-studded night in Arlington, TX as country superstars and celebrities gathered for the 50th annual ACM awards. The red-carpet event featured Blake Shelton and Luke Bryan as hosts, and awards were won by Taylor Swift, Garth Brooks, and performances from guests such as Miranda Lambert and Dierks Bentley were unforgettable. However, some of our favorite looks from the glamorous evening belonged to the faces that were seen on the red-carpet, but not necessarily the stage.

Dierks Bentley had a successful night performing "Riser" (possibly his next single) and he also had a beautiful date, wife Cassidy Black. Cassidy rocked strappy, simple black heels which are a huge trend right now. The more simple of the heel, the better for summer. We love the intricate pattern of her dress and the flattering and unique neckline. Dierks and Cassidy win for hottest couple of the night.

Olivia Culpo and Nick Jonas made a stunning pair. We love her entire look for its simplicity, yet Olivia was one of the more stunning appearances. Her look is proof that simplicity can be key with the right accessories, makeup and hair choices. Why was Nick Jonas (formerly from "the Jonas Brothers" and known for his pop vocals) at the ACMs? He contributed to a fun and unique twist as he performed his two hits, "Chains" and "Jealous" along country duo Dan + Shay.

Tracy Ripsin and Troy Aikman were another hot couple seen on the red carpet. We adore everything about Tracy's look, from her  blush-colored gown to her metallic beaded statement necklace to her soft curls and most importantly her radiant smile.

Reese Witherspoon made a guest appearance on the red carpet alongside Hot Pursuit costar Sofia Vergara. Reese also chose to wear trendy, simple and strappy black heels to compliment her bold, glittery gown which we love for its cute skater-girl shape.

Love Yourself From The Inside Out (Video)

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

Trendy and Inspiring: Taylor Madu

Farewell to the woman that I used to be. No more lies from the enemy. Bye-bye insecurity. Now I'm free, no more history defining who I am. In Your arms I'm clothed with strength and dignity.

These are beautiful lyrics from Taylor Madu's first single, You Are Life, which was initially released on iTunes. From this came a campaign that would find its way all over Instagram, Twitter, on black t-shirts with gold foil lettering and on baby onesies. 

Don't let Taylor Madu's beautiful blonde curls and sweet southern accent fool you– She is one hardcore lady with an edgy style. Her fiery, determined and fun spirit is portrayed through what she wears, and we love following her Instagram account (taylormadu) and getting inspiration on how to mix unexpected pieces. She's a new mother to a beautiful baby girl, released a single on iTunes with 100% of the proceeds being donated to Hope Mansion--a home for single mothers, and is a social media enthusiast.

Recently, we talked about how to rock this spring's hottest accessory, a hat (The Accessory Every Girl Needs This Spring). It's fitting that for Easter, Madu posted this picture of her adorable wide-brim hat, round sunnies (another hot accessory for spring and summer) and a playful skirt. The look above is one of her more girly, softer looks, but she throws in a cute muscle tank to add a modern edge to this look.

We also love Madu's incredible ability to rock flannels in multiple ways! Here she wears it both tied around her waist and in a jacket-style paired with distressed denim, a graphic muscle tank, killer boots and tinted aviators (trend alert).

There are a million reasons to love this powerhouse of a woman from her generous spirit to her awesome fashion sense. For more Taylor Madu-inspired looks, visit her blog here.

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{Images via Madu's official site}

Jennifer Lawrence: Minimal Makeup Looks for Spring 2015

"I'm a big believer in accepting yourself and not really worrying about it."

Jennifer Lawrence, the 24-year-old Hunger Games star is known for being blunt about the importance of self-confidence. We love Jennifer for many reasons, including her ability to rock completely natural and minimal-makeup looks all over magazine covers and red carpets.

A lot of assumptions come along with wearing makeup– there are stereotypes that girls who wear heavy makeup are self-conscious or vain. However, we love makeup and the fun that comes along with trying a bold, fuchsia lip or a subtle smokey eye.

On the other hand, a minimalistic makeup look lets others know that you are confident in your own skin through your makeup choice. It allows extra time to sleep in, and a fresh face can feel great from time-to-time, especially on long days when you do not feel like reapplying your pretty pink lipstick multiple times.

You do not need to avoid makeup completely (which we definitely do not object to!), but your makeup routine can be oh-so-simple with just a few quick steps. To get a look like Jennifer's, all you need is five or six products.

The trick to being confident with a natural look is starting with a fresh foundation. If you are prone to blemishes, dab a concealer under your eyes and on any blemishes. Next, add a pea-sized amount of foundation all over, including over eyelids and down the neck-line. We love Tarte's Amazonian Clay 12-Hour Full Coverage Foundation because the clay-base formula makes it wearable all day long, and it also has SPF 15 (we love anything with a little added SPF!)

Eyebrows can make a huge difference when going for a minimalistic look, so once you  have gotten rid of any stray hairs, try lightly filling them in with a shimmer-free eye shadow color that is just a shade lighter than your eyebrow color.

Finally, finish off the look by curling your lashes and adding one or two coats of black mascara and a tinted lip gloss. Trust us-- that's all you need.

Hillary Duff and Katy Perry, prove that a minimal-look can be gorgeous worn in different ways.

One last thing– it is officially spring, which means that lots of fun-in-the-sun is on the way. We can not stress the importance of wearing sunscreen enough. Preserving that beautiful skin is crucial to being able to rock the minimal-makeup look as you get older and wrinkles start to develop (which we know seems so far away that it will never happen– but trust us on this one). Use an SPF of at least 30, pay special attention to the face, and reapply after you go in the water or sweat. We love Sun Bum's Sunscreen Face Stick SPF 30 because it makes protecting your face easy and is compact enough to fit in any bag for those on-the-go pool and beach trips with your girlfriends.

Written by: Katy Abramowich

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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}

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

Happy New Year From The Top Buttons Team

Tomorrow will mark the beginning of a new year for us all! The Top Buttons team and I would like to thank your for journeying with us in 2014 and we wish you THE BEST in the season to come. As you move forward into the new year remember that YOUR beauty and worth are found in the Lord. You are LOVED BY GOD and He has wonderful things in store for your life.  

Happy New Year beautiful ladies and best wishes from the Top Buttons Team!!!

XXO,

Rebekah

(image via Popsugar)

A Top Buttons Intern And Rising TV Star

Taylor Murray is a bright young woman of 21 years of age. She has been with Top Buttons as a volunteer from the start and now is an intern with us. Because of her dedication to the mission of our organization and her completely contagious personality, we couldn't help but choose her to spotlight as she gets ready to finish her 4 year degree in broadcasting.  She has the dream to be in the entertainment industry and is already well on her way. As I sat down with her in a local coffee shop, she began to tell me what she sees in her future. It's hard not to be slightly envious of her stunning and unique look... Yet she is so stinking down to earth and hysterically funny, you can't help but just appreciate who she is and the love for life which she exudes so brightly.  There is no question that this girl has the grit and determination that will take her exactly where she wants to be and maybe further.

So Taylor, lets get started with this question.  How would YOU define your personality?

Well, I’m extremely extroverted. I get energy being around other people and making them laugh. I like being the hero that saves the day and I work well under pressure. That’s when I shine.

What is your personal style?

My personal style is constantly changing. In high school I was more boho/chic but as I have grown older my style has switched to shabby chic. Girly but also laid back and it can change from sophisticated to boyfriend jeans in a day.

We love how confident you are with your body.  Do you mind sharing with our followers how you got to that point?

I love that I am not a size 2. I really feel confident in my body even though it is on the curvy side. Beauty is not just characterized by one size ideal, but bodies of all shapes and sizes are beautiful. I think that women need to start loving their bodies regardless of what size they are. I'll be honest, I used to be really insecure about my weight. In high school, I struggled to feel pretty, because I didn't look like the stick thin models in magazines. Living in that kind of insecurity is exhausting. You waste so much energy thinking about what your not, when you could be loving who you are and making an impact on the world. I have made the choice to stop obsessing over looking skinnier, and have started to discover the styles that look great on my current body . On the days where I start to feel insecure again, I choose to tell myself that I am pretty. I am a curvy, bustier, fuller woman and my confidence in that is what makes me beautiful.

Where do you shop the most to find clothes that fit your body type and your style?

Since I am a fuller girl, it is very hard for me to shop at stores that are geared towards the smaller teen body type. So, I have discovered that department stores that carry a women's section tend to sell clothes that better fit my body type. I love to shop at department stores for all of my wardrobe basics, such as jeans, cardigans, simple blouses. Some of my favorites include Nordstrom Rack, JCPenny, Belk, and Khols, because they tend to provide a wide variety of sizes and fits for clothing. My style changes upon my mood and is very undefined, so when looking for statement pieces I shop at stores like Urban Outfitters, ASOS online, H&M, Francesca's, and Mod Cloth. However, to be honest, because I am Senior in college with classes and work to juggle, I rarely find time to shop. Thus, lately, Target has truly been my go to store to update my wardrobe. I can go to Target with the purpose of getting notebook paper or granola bars, and also leave with a pair of booties or a new dress. Target has also started featuring different designers and selling their clothing at a cheaper price, so I love checking out the clothing section to see whats new.

What has been your greatest challenge in your journey to reach your goals?

My biggest challenge has been doubting myself. I think a lot of young women have BIG dreams, but lack the faith to believe that they can actually have what they've dreamed of. I dream of being a television personality one day, but I tend to doubt if I am good enough. This is something that I am trying to change about myself. I want to be fearless and confident enough to reach high for my goals. Sometimes the end goal seems so far away, but that doesn't mean it doesn’t exist. I want to stop doubting my dreams, so I may enjoy the journey and the process of reaching them.

Who has been the biggest influence on your life in the past couple years? Why?

My family and friends have been the biggest influence on my life in the past couple of years. They have seen me through major insecurities and guided me towards confidence. Whenever I stop believing in myself, they are always there to cheer me on and remind me of who I am. I think it is so important to surround yourself with people who are in your corner and believe in your dreams. I can definitely say that I have the right people around me. I have best friends from childhood, high school, and college that have shared in my failure and successes. My family has put me through college and been a constant encouragement through my life. The ones I have around me are the real deal. They correct me when I'm wrong and promote me in my successes. The experience of truly being loved and cherished by my friends and family has taught me how to live my life and love others.

Are you dating?

No. I am not currently dating. My love life, or lack there of, could be a whole separate interview. I have never been in love, but look forward to the day of meeting the man that God has for me and loving him with my whole heart. God's timing is everything, so I trust Him and wait for the moment when He choses to reveal my spouse. Yes. I said spouse. At this point, I have been single for so long, I am confident that who ever I date next, I will marry. In the mean time, I take this time of singleness to discover more about who I am and what the Lord says about me. These moments of being single are precious and won't be forever, so I cherish them.

We all want to know what you are looking for in a fella! What’s your response?

Woah. Such a big question. Where do I begin?!?! I am looking for a man who loves the Lord with his whole heart. I mean really loves God. He needs to have such a strong relationship with our Father that I envy it. I want a man that is compassionate and quick to lift up the dreams of those who tend to be pushed aside. I am fiercely independent, so I want a man who can make me feel taken care of for a change. I want a man who is so confident in his calling and dreams that I feel safe to depend on him. I want a man who loves to laugh, finds joy in the simple things, and yet appreciates the extravagant things. I want a man who buys me sunflowers. Thats what I am looking for.

Here's a random questions for ya.  What’s your favorite film of all time?

How do I choose just one? I love Christmas and a good cry, so The Family Stone ranks rather high on my list of favorites.

And ...What’s your favorite food and how do you take your coffee?

I am the worst at choosing a favorite food, because I am a foodie who loves all of it. However, currently I love avocados. It may change tomorrow though. ;) Coffee.... medium roast, half & half, and sugar in the raw. Sometimes I opt for flavored creamer if I am feeling adventurous.

What job or position do you feel has prepared you the most for your future? why?

My job as a student worker for my broadcasting professor at SEU, Roxane Griner, has really prepared me for my future. It was in that job that I learned how to edit videos and use photoshop. These skills have proven to be valuable in preparing my reel for future jobs. I know that I will continue to use the skills that I learned in whatever job I find in Television. Being the former female host of Raw TV has also prepared me for my future, by allowing me to discover my love for being on television. Hosting Raw TV taught me what it looks like to be on a real life show, with deadlines, networks, and an audience to reach. No matter where TV takes me, I will always remember Raw TV as the show that sparked my dreams and started it all.  (Raw TV is a internationally broadcasted Christian talk show produced out of Southeastern University's Campus.)

Why have you dedicated so many volunteer hours and decided to intern for Top Buttons?

Dedicating time and deciding to intern for Top Buttons is a no brainer. I want to live in a world of confident young women who use their outward appearance to project the beauty that lies within. Going into the Television industry, I know for a fact that people judge you, firstly, by your outward appearance. Thus, I agree with the Top Buttons mission to encourage young women to feel good about themselves for all the right reasons.  I watch girls get attention by flaunting their bodies with zero boundaries.  I feel that every young woman should have healthy boundaries of self-expression, so that the world can see who they really are and be appreciated for more than their body.  Top Buttons also gives a platform for girls like myself to learn, grow, and share our stories with the world, because WE create the content! One of my favorite experiences working with TB was getting to help young girls who are at risk and in need of a major confidence boost by giving them quality used clothing and makeovers. So many girls feel unworthy of love and respect, but I desire to see the return of the “confident girl”, who dresses for the respect that they deserve and are valued and cherished once again by society. I believe in the message of modesty, I LOVE fashion, and know the power that us ladies have to change the world, so volunteering for Top Buttons has been a great fit for me.

What dreams and goals do you have in the next 5 years?

I want to be a television personality or anchor on a national TV show. Preferably, News/entertainment or on a morning show like a national level morning show such as Good Morning America or the Today show. My 15-20 year goal is to have my own show. I want my light to shine on television, that is where I get the most energy. It is my platform to have a voice.

What advice would you give to younger girls that have the same dreams to be on Television?

Don’t be ashamed of being interested in it and know that isn’t all about selfish goals and gain. There is a different way to do it, you can do it in a way to shine your light and make God’s name known. Don’t be afraid to be in the spotlight because you can make a difference in peoples lives.

Interview by TB Intern Destiny Young

Photography by Elisabeth Huijskens

Makeup by Yolanda Delacerda and Christi Northington

Summer Playlist Must-Haves

It's Summer! This means VACATION, beach trips, pool parties, and gatherings with your friends and family. Here are some tunes you can listen to that will surely get you in the summer mood. Enjoy!

1. "Move" - Kaleidoscope

This duo of best friends met in college and joined forces to spread the message of the Lord. "Move" is definitely a song that will make you dance. It motivates us to embrace who we are in Christ and to let Him lead our lives.

2. "Every Good Thing" - The Afters

From their 5th album Life is Beautiful, "Every Good Thing" proclaims that life is PRECIOUS! Let's not take it for granted.

3. "Do Life Big" - Jamie Grace

This spunky song is Jamie Grace's new single. It encourages us to do life BIG like Jesus did. We can make a change!

4. "Gold" - Britt Nicole

Britt Nicole never ceases to inspire us with her truthful lyrics & music. You are GOLD! Special, unique and worth so much.

5. "Alive" - Hillsong Young & Free

From the latest Hillsong group, this song is a celebration. We are alive because of Jesus' sacrifice for us, He died out of love for us. How awesome is that!

6. "Try" - Colbie Caillat

At Top Buttons, we love the message Colbie sends out through this song. You, YES YOU, are beautiful. One might feel insecure about how we look but this song is a great reminder of what real beauty is.

About the Author:

Jelsianly Freytes is 20 years old & from Puerto Rico. Currently, she's a senior in the University of the Sacred Heart with a major in television & cinematography. Music is a huge part of her life, dancing for the Lord is her passion and traveling brings her joy.

"I can do ALL things through Christ who strengthens me." Philippians 4:13.

The "Why" Behind Her Style and Purpose: Meet Amanda Rose

If there is one thing I believe we can all agree on, it is that it feels GREAT to pick out an outfit and know, "This is ME, I will so rock this today!" But if you are like me, that usually doesn't just happen. It is a process. One day, I thought "WHOA, I spend so much time getting ready but hardly any time taking care of who I am on the inside or even spending time with my Creator (the one who made me, who loves my big hair and wild spirit.)"

After discovering more about who I am on the inside and getting to know the God who created me, I am now confident in the things I love (like fashion) because I know it does not solely define me.

My challenge to you today, before you decided what you are going to wear, decide who you want to be and who you are going to let define you.

Have a beautiful day darlings, xox Amanda Rose, Top Buttons Contributor

http://youtu.be/K4_PrfaeOGA

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More About this Contributor: I am passionate about many things from my big hair, to trying new foods, my city (Rockford, IL), to helping people discover what story God has uniquely written for them. I love fashion + have an eye for design. When I said "Jesus, I want to follow you", that meant what I was passionate about could NOT be just for me. Because I believe He has placed certain things inside of me, I recently had the God-birthed idea of launching a unique business called Worth Royalty. I also work at one of the greatest/realest churches I know called Rockford First + help specifically with a gap year program called Focus One which helps young adults define more about what it means to be a world changer in their own life. Every day is quite the adventure for me; I'm constantly learning to embrace it with peace & excitement!

Thrifted Treasures

Thrifting has become a small passion of mine. I don’t know if it’s the thrill of the hunt, the pure satisfaction of getting a good deal, or finding one of a kind vintage items that I love the most. On a recent trip to Vermont I scored some amazing finds that have been on my “must have” list for some time. I love entertaining so I am always on the hunt for unique glasses, plates and serving ware. Prior to my trip, I had been pricing gold flatware from different online stores. They were all pretty pricey so when I saw this set of vintage gold flatware for $4.50 I was thrilled! It took time to restore the finish, but it was well worth it.

 They have been the perfect addition to my eclectic mix of cups and plates. I love using them for when I have friends over for "girly" brunches or dessert parties.

I'm slightly obsessed with all things gold. So when I came across these adorable gold rimmed glasses for $1 a piece, I quickly snatched them up. I bought the whole set and have it displayed on my bar cart.

This gold rimmed tea pot was purchased for a whopping $2, the coffee mug was $1, and the saucer was part of a set that was $10.

Adding simple touches of elegance to your home does not have to cost a fortune. Some of my favorite items have come from thrift stores. It's always nice to have a mix of old and new, it adds depth and character to a home.

What are some of your favorite thrifted treasures?

Happy Styling,

Rebekah

{photos and styling by: Rebekah Miura}

Trendy Tuesday: Stark Black & White

Seasons come and go, and so do trends. But one thing that hasn't changed is the stark beauty of a colorless outfit. That sounds weird, but you know what we mean! The contrast between black and white creates a beautiful, modern-yet-timeless effect that can help fill out your wardrobe without too much work. Wearing all black and white can also be a great base or platform to wear other funky pieces. Have some crazy Kelly green sneakers you've been dying to wear? Use an all black and white outfit to make those super sneaks pop! Same goes for any out-there accessory, from jewelry to handbags, scarves to makeup! Wearing a black & white outfit is a great baseline, and is so, so easy to put together!

And did we mention, black and white can be rocked in every season? It's true.

So today, we don't have any specific piece for you to try - but more an encouragement to stand out in black and white! Here's some ideas to get you started!

Menswear Fashion

A woman's role in the corporate world has come along way. Women continue to gain respect on a professional level, and now we are taking it to the NEXT level with a menswear inspired wardrobe.

Dress suits and close toed pumps have always been a staple for women in the workplace. Now, thanks to the heavy influence of fashion, the barrier between a man and woman's closets has disappeared. Everything from vests, loafers, and trousers are making their way into a woman's wardrobe (and we can't say we are not a tad excited).

Below is a prime example of a revamped 9-5 look. We stuck with slimming black trousers and a simple (but elegant) undershirt. *Keep in mind the camisole is for a profession, not a night out. Be aware of how low cut your blouse is.* Then there is the fun part, adding a twist to the original oxford and blazer. Both blazers are boyfriend style, but each offer a different look...the black is traditional and the muted grey adds a touch of flare. As for the oxford pump, it is close toed AND office appropriate. Add the finishing touch of a statement piece, a delicately molded, yet bold necklace.

For a more casual work environment or out-of office occasion, go for the classic button down and tuxedo pant. The rich blue button down pops against the black pants, and the tuxedo pant detail pays homage to it's original design. Add a dressy loafer, edgy clutch, and bowler hat to the mix and you are ready to face the day, in and out of the office! P.s. bowler hats are adorable and complete any menswear affect!

The challenge is yours for the taking. We dare YOU to try menswear inspired fashion!

-Jenna O.

*Links are suggestions, not exact items*