How To: Tight Curls Tutorial For Prom

Searching for the perfect prom hair style?  Team member, Delaney, shows us how to get the perfect curls for the perfect night!  There are many products you could use to accomplish this look.  What products do you use to get your curls to hold tight throughout the night? Still trying to put together your total look for Prom?  Click the links to see our posts about  Prom Makeup &  where to find the best Prom Dresses!

Video by: Delaney

 

Color Pop: Trending Spring's Favorite Colors

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Spring Fashions are trending non-stop, but let us not forget the color trends that are bringing fashion to life: Cobalt & Monaco Blue, Poppy Red, Marigold & Lemon Yellow, Khaki, and Emerald, to name a few.

While selecting a popular color for an outfit may not be at the top of your list, pairing  the RIGHT colors is must for a successful outfit. Below are a few accessories that compliment our color pop choices.

 Torn between gold or silver accessories? Pick a necklace that showcases both. As for this look, the gold brings attention to the pop of  yellow while the silver offsets the outfit. If you are wanting to keep it simple, a necklace as bold as this is all you will need. And if you are on the adventurous side, play up your look with bangles and cluster rings.

 These cobalt blue wedges not only compliment yellow, they also pop against the grey.

 Below are similar pieces featured:

Dolman Cardigan | Top | Skinny Jeans | Wedges | Necklace | Ring

Photo Credit: Beth Carter Photography

A Taylor Swift Inspired: Smokey Eye And Nude Lip Tutorial

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A dramatic eye paired with a barely there lip is a classic look with high impact. Taylor Swift often wears this combination and it always looks amazing. Today, I am going to tell you exactly what you need to know in order to achieve this glamorous makeup look. For the face:

  •  Start with applying a primer. This will help your foundation to go on smooth and last longer.
  •  Next, apply foundation. I would suggest a full coverage foundation such as Mac Pro Longwear. Don't forget to put it on your eyelids and to set it with powder, this will help your eyeshadow to stay on longer and to go on evenly.
  •  Apply concealer under the eyes and on blemishes.
  •  Set your foundation with powder. Choose one that has a full coverage, flawless finish. Smashbox Halo Hydrating Perfecting Powder is an excellent option that has a radiant, red carpet effect.
  •  Apply a peachy pink blush to the apples of your cheeks.

For the eyes:

  • Use a brow pencil to fill in and shape your eyebrows.
  •  Choose eyeshadows in the following colors: light grey, light brown/or taupe, charcoal/or black, and white. Dior Royal Khaki has a fun combination of colors that work well in creating a smokey eye. You can use the gold shimmer in that palette as a substitute for light brown.
  •  Sweep the light grey shadow on your lid up to the crease.
  •  Take the light brown color and work it across the crease and then blend slightly above the crease. Mixing in a light brown or taupe color adds depth and warmth to a palette of greys.
  •  Next, take the charcoal color and apply it to the outer corners of your eyes and blend in to the crease.
  •  Use the white color to highlight under the brow bone and in the corner of the eyes
  •  Take a black liner and line the upper and lower lash line. To soften the look you can take an eyeliner brush, dip it into the grey shadow and sweep it over the pencil line. For a more dramatic look, you can use the charcoal shadow to brush over the pencil liner.
  •  Apply false lashes. Ardell Demi Wispies would work great for this look.
  •  Apply a black, thickening mascara to your top and bottom lashes.

For the lips:

Now that you have all of the tools and steps that you need to achieve this look, its time to practice, practice, practice! Your makeup may not come out perfect the first two times or ten times! But, just remember that practice makes perfect. Once you have this look down, you are going to love it!

Happy practicing!

Rebekah

 

 

Ways to Wear: Preppy in Pink

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It is no surprise that pink is associated with girliness. What may come as a surprise is that by adding or altering garments and accessories, a preppy look can go from casual to classy or take on a unique edge.

In the photo above, we added a moto jacket to break up the softness of the look. Any garment with texture can break up an outfit, but a black moto jacket does THIS style justice. Here are a few jacket options:

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If you are simply wanting to accomplish a preppy look, the button down is ALWAYS the way to go. Here we have a pant that correlates with the button down and a basic flat to pull the look together. Also, notice the necklace? We have it on the outside of the collar instead of hiding away under the shirt. A necklace with such detail deserves to been seen, so just tuck the chain under the collar and let the necklace do the rest!

 

Now completing an outfit does not always mean you have to wear the "whole nine yards". But adding a belt will not only dress up the look, it showcase a more classy approach to the prep style. So always remember, even the slightest change or alteration you make to an outfit can transform your look!

Button Down | Pants | Flats | Belt | Necklace

Photo Credit: Beth Carter Photography

Top Ten Expert Makeup And Beauty Tips: Prom 2013

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As a professional makeup artist, I am continually helping clients prepare for special occasions. Today, I am going to share some of these secrets with YOU! Here are my top ten tips to looking beautiful the day of your big event! 1. Start prepping your skin a couple of weeks in advance. Get into a good skin care routine. This is crucial for your make up to look its best. Cleanse, tone, and moisturize! Morning and evening. Exfoliate twice a week. If you do not have a good skin care line just yet, visit your local department store and chat with the beauty advisors in the cosmetics department. They can help prescribe the right skincare for you. Estee Lauder has an excellent skincare line that offers a variety of products that meet the needs of different skin types. Investing in your skin is key!

2. Drink lots of water, it is excellent for hydrating your skin. Not only that, but it can help to clear up your skin and give you a healthy glow.

3. Use a primer under your foundation. This will help your makeup to go on evenly and last longer. Moisturize, prime, and then apply your foundation. Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer is a great choice. A less expensive option is Sephora's Ultra-smoothing Primer.

4. Use a photogenic foundation. You will be taking a ton of pictures so you want a foundation that is not only going to last through out the event, but one that will photograph well. Mac Pro Longwear and Makeup Forever HD foundations are excellent options. A cheaper alternative would be Revlon's Photoready Foundation which can be found at your local drugstore.

5. Set your foundation with powder. You do not want your face to appear shiny in pictures. Powder sets your foundation and helps it to last longer. I recommend Mac Blot Powder, it is light weight and excellent for touch ups. A cheaper alternative would be Revlon's Photogenic Powder.

6. Wear your makeup just a little heavier than you would normally. You want it to stand out on camera.

7. Play up your best feature. If it is your eyes, do a dramatic eye and keep your lips in a neutral tone. If it is your lips, choose a lipstick shade that pops and keep the eye makeup simple.

8. Get inspired! Gather pictures of makeup looks and hairstyles that you like and start practicing! Practice makes perfect! Another option is to hire a professional. You can make an appointment at your local salon with a makeup artist and hairstylist. Call in advance to make your appointment and make sure to bring a picture of the look you would like to achieve.

9. If your skin needs a little boost of color, try a self-tanner. Make sure you exfoliate first and wear gloves when applying. St. Tropez Bronzing Mousse is a personal favorite of mine, it gives you instant color and has a natural sun kissed look. A cheaper alternative would be L'oreal's Sublime Bronze Tanning Towelettes.

10. Lastly, don't forget to wear a smile! It is your greatest accessory! If you are feeling a little self conscious about your smile, try some Crest 3D White Whitestrips. They are an inexpensive way to achieve those pearly whites!

Remember to have FUN on your big day! ENJOY the process of getting ready. Looking good starts with feeling good. YOU are going to look BEAUTIFUL! If you still have not found a prom dress, check out our blog post devoted to finding the perfect dress here! You can also visit our Pinterest Prom 2013 board here for more style inspiration.

 

Article by: Rebekah Miura

Photography by: Reagan Miura

Where to find the Perfect Prom Dress 2013

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Seriously, trying to find a modest and yet noteworthy PROM DRESS is almost as difficult as finding a modest costume at HALLOWEEN! So while it may seem impossible, trying something new or going your own route just might make you the bell of the ball. Prom is often associated with boys, make out sessions and after parties. There are plenty of magazines with an eyeful of content such as that to read. Our plan, however, is simply to give you some tips on where to find fun prom dresses so you may enjoy your evening in a way that honors your body and your values.

The question is, where DOES a young lady go to find the perfect prom dress these days? Ebay, a local boutique, renttherunway.com, online style magazines, or a department store? Most young women will spend hours, days, and maybe even weeks trying to find the dress that best suits her style. Maybe She'll virtually try on dresses from Seventeen's Prom Dress Gallery. Hoping to complete the look, girls then search for Prom Hair Styles, sparkle pumps, and makeup tutorials! It's too much to fit in one post, but we're aiming to get you on the right track and find THE look that represents YOU. A look that lets your lovely inner self shine through.

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BORROW A PROM DRESS FROM A FRIEND

If you're not wanting to break your piggy bank, why pay money for a prom dress at all? Ask your sisters, your friends, your sister's friends, cousins, even your grandmother may have a little vintage number awaiting you. By asking around you might find a number of dress options to borrow for your special night. Aarika pulled together the Prom looks you see in this photo shoot. These dresses were from their own closets or borrowed from a friend.

A little side note to keep in mind: Height matters when you borrow a dress from a friend. If it's a short friend with a short dress, a taller girl might have to refrain. Unfortunately, even though these girls are super close friends, Amelia and Katie can't do much clothes swapping between each other because of the height difference.

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You want to know where Amelia's gown is from, right??? It was actually worn on Glee last season. They took off the belt and buttons, chopped the tool off a bit, but it was THIS Betsy Johnson dress that was seen on the program. Betsy Johnson is known for the fun, flashy, and feminine kinda looks. Not all would be Top Buttons recommended, but this one is stunning. We found several dresses on Ebay just like this one.

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TRY PURCHASING A PROM DRESS STYLE THAT CAN BE WORN MORE THAN ONCE

Katie on the right (in the picture above) loves classic, preppy styles. This gold dress could be worn after prom is over to a wedding, church event, or even a fancy dinner. We are ALL ABOUT buying PRACTICAL. Being able to wear a dress more than once is always a good thing when spending lots of bucks.

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RENT YOUR PERFECT PROM DRESS

What if your friends don't have fancy dresses in your size or their taste isn't similar to yours? Try RENTING A DRESS! This trend is for ladies who want to wear high end fashions at low cost, and who would NOT BE CAUGHT DEAD in the same Evening Gown MORE THAN ONCE! We looked into this NEW TREND of RENTING Luxurious Dresses Online. There are several websites that offer this option. Online rental sites offer dresses at a fraction of the cost + free shipping. Would you ever rent a dress?

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A TOP BUTTONS TIP FOR ONLINE PROM DRESS SHOPPING

When searching ONLINE for a fancy dress and a modest style that suits your body type, consider looking for a neckline that cuts straight across the front like the dresses on Ahna and Kenady. A straight, square or box neckline provides coverage for girls with more curves. The one shoulder dress often sweeps elegantly upwards to one side and in doing so lays flat across the chest. Enjoy your evening without a wardrobe malfunction, by securing the right dress for your body type.

Finding the right length can be challenging as well. Dresses are either long or super short. This Dress length hits just above the knee and is very flattering for all body types, especially on Kenady seen below.

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FIND LAST SEASON'S DRESSES ON EBAY

The dresses featured in this post are fun, beautiful, and perfect for a fancy evening depending on your personal preference of course! You won't find these particular dresses in the store because they have been worn and passed around within this circle of friends for years. You know it's a good dress, when your friends want to borrow it! With that in mind, if there is a particular dress featured in this post that you like, try searching Ebay for one similar... It is the place to shop for used Prom Dresses! Search for brand, color, and size. Have patience when bidding, though. If you try and outbid too quickly, you will likely pay more for the dress than you originally intended.

BE BRAVE: TRY SOME "OUT OF THE BOX" ELEGANT STYLES

OUT OF THE 5 STYLES LISTED ABOVE, WHICH ONE DO YOU LIKE BEST? PLEASE COMMENT BELOW!

THE PROM DRESS STEAL: Grab this FLOOR LENGTH, ONE SHOULDER Dress in TEAL OR ANTIQUE ROSE from H&M for only 59.95! You could trade in the belt for something more sparkly to fancify the look even more.

We have created a Top Buttons Pinterest Board for Prom 2013. Check it out and let us know what you think about our recommendations. We would love to hear the details about your Prom Dress Search experience!

Now we didn't offer you makeup tips or hair tutorials yet... KEEP CHECKING back this week and Next for some more helpful tips to make your Prom 2013 better than ever!

Written by: Sarah Powers

Photo Credit: Beth Carter Photography

How To Wear: The Arm Party

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The arm party has graced the pages of countless magazines. It is fun, edgy, and oh so stylish! If your new to this trend, here are some tips to get you up and running. Start out with a watch and build from there. Gold is safe when you are first starting out, it goes with everything.

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Next, add one thin bracelet and one larger bracelet.

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armcandy3*similar gold watch | love bracelet | *similar studded bracelet

You can wear this look or you can keep adding! A mix of chunky and thin bracelets work well together.

Another way to wear the arm party is to take a color from your outfit and incorporate it into your bracelets.

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*similar bracelets

Try mixing textures in your arm party. Leather is a great option. Add a couple of rings and it completes the look.

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rings | *similar leather bracelet

There are countless ways to throw an arm party, these are just a few pointers to get the ball rolling. I have created a pinterest board here to further assist you in creating this look. Forever 21 is a great place to build your bracelet collection. They are affordable and have a great selection. Target also offers "arm parties in a box" where you can purchase an entire look. Michael Kors makes a fabulous gold watch, but you can also find less expensive watches at stores like Target. You do not have to spend a fortune to rock this trend.

We would love to hear how you wear your favorite arm party! Comment below or head on over to our facebook wall and let us know! We can't wait to hear from you!

 

 

Happy Styling!

Rebekah

 

 

What To Wear On Easter Sunday

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Haven't found an outfit for Easter yet? No need to worry! We have got you covered. We have taken the time to scout out outfit inspiration to help get you on track. Whether you want to wear a dress or pants, we have some great options for you. If you have your heart set on wearing a dress, the six dresses pictured above are styles that are not only adorable but, right on trend. Pastels, lace, and florals are all perfect for Easter. Not only that, but they are perfect for Spring. They are dresses that can still be worn after next weekend. No wasted money here!

If dresses are just not your thing, floral pants are a great option. Pair them with a peplum top and a blazer and you are straight off the runway!

 

 

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We hope you are charged with inspiration and ready to put an outfit together that fits your personality and unique style! Whether you find styles like this in your own closet, your friend's closet or the store down the road we are confident you will hit a home run with your Easter Sunday look!

 

Have a happy stylish Easter!

Rebekah

 

Links to dresses above, left to right.

1| 2| 3| 4| 5| 6

Links to pants outfit:

top| blazer| pants| shoes| purse| earrings| bracelets

Mix It Up For Spring

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Spring is in full bloom with vibrant colors and beautiful weather. It's a time when flowers and new beginnings blossom. As for fashion this season, why not begin trying new trends and experimenting with textures and prints.

We decided to take experimenting a bit further by layering a floral crop top over a lace dress. It is a perfect balance of texture and print. Because crop tops can be a hassle to pair "appropriately," this dress is a great solution. So whether it is styling garments in a new way or updating the old wardrobe, Spring is the time for fresh trends.

 

 

 Dress | Jacket | Floral Top | Purse | Bracelets | Ring

 

Photo Credit:  Moments by Jen

How To Wear The Collar Necklace

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Are you a secret admirer of the collar necklace trend? Have you wanted to rock it but, didn’t quite know how? Well this is the article for you! Here are a few tricks to styling this popular statement piece. 1. Collar necklaces look great paired with crew necks. They give the illusion of being a collar, hence the name “collar necklace.” They can transform your average t-shirt or sweater from plain to chic.

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2. Collar necklaces look great worn under a collar. They can be the statement piece that you were looking for to add that “little something” to your button up blouses.

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3. Collar necklaces look great with layers! Pair a collared shirt with a crew neck sweater and add the necklace under the collar. Top it off with a blazer and it looks even more sophisticated!

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Collar necklaces come in a variety of colors, materials, and patterns. Having a couple on hand to mix and match with your outfits is a great investment. They are an inexpensive accessory that have the ability to truly “make” an outfit. Want more collar necklace inspiration? No fear, I created a pinterest board devoted to the trend on our Top Button’s Pinterst account here. Enjoy!

 

Happy Styling!

Rebekah

*A similar necklace to the one pictured above can be found here.

 

 

 

 

 

Sunshine in Borås, Sweden

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Spring is coming surely but slowly in Sweden. The most visible sign of this is the radiant sunshine that peaks through the clouds- on almost -a daily basis. The days are longer and people's moods are getting brighter. This time of the year is altogether joyful but always seems like a new phenomenon every year it comes. It's only now that I realize how long the winter darkness has lasted.

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Ever since I remember, spring brings a radical change to the types of clothing people wear up here in the north. All of a sudden we move from very dark gloomy colors to brighter and happier tones. You can really see the transition and its impact on people's behavior.
godz6 I don't know anything better than to soak up the sun. Just recently, we really experienced some amazing weather here in Borås, Sweden. After many months of being heavily wrapped up in woolen sweaters and knits, I was able to grab a pair of open-air pumps that I have been waiting for so long to wear, paired up with a colorful top + a neat pencil skirt. This is a look I would normally sport back at my home town when going out for Saturday lunch with the girls. Sadly, though, I guess I'll still have to wait for better days to come. It's still a period when you really can't predict the weather. I guess it's just Scandinavia really...

 

Written by Sandra Eneh
(Sandra is a regular contributing team member for Top Buttons and has her own personal fashion blog too!  We are looking for other young fashion bloggers from around the world with a conviction for modesty in their styles.  If you are interested in being a guest or regular contributor, click here.)

A Year Round Trench

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Regardless of the weather or season, jackets and coats are here to keep you comfy and cozy. But when it comes to facing elements of the outdoors, a pea coat or hoodie may not do the job. So with wool coats, hoodies, and leather jackets off the table, the only option that will keep you warm and dry is the trench coat. Not only are trench coats fashion forward, they protect your clothes from deteriorating under harsh or rainy weather. So next time you step out into the cold, snowy weather, or pouring rain, keep the trench coat in mind...it will save you AND your clothes.

Now that you have incentive to add a trench to your wardrobe, the process of finding "the one" begins. If you are looking for a trench that is versatile through all seasons, stick to the usual color palette of tan, black, navy, and often red or other blues. Going for option number two would entail trending colors such as lavender, mint, black & white prints, deep corals, and any trench that goes beyond the standard belted trench, i.e. leather inserts, rubber, hardware.

Here is our take on the trench coat!

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  Trench | DressShoesHandbag | Ring

Makeup Artist: Melissa Kinsey

Photo Credit:  Moments by Jen

Kansas City Fashion Week

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Kansas City Fashion Week is a fashion packed five day event with a kick off party on Wednesday evening and shows Thursday through Sunday. I attended Sunday’s student designer show, which showcased the work of nine extremely talented, young designers. IMG_5463

I was particularly impressed by two, both in their teens: Elda Doamekpo, age 15 and Josh Herman age 17. At such a young age both presented entire collections of gorgeous garments on the runway. According to her bio on KCFW Elda says, “I hope to bring the idea of true beauty back to women all over the world and bring their confidence to a whole new level.”

The fashion on Sunday was a mix of classic glamour and urban chic. Each designer had a different presentation which showcased their unique design styles. Michelle Kleineweber of Little Shell Designs showed a number of dresses that were light and airy. Her polka dot dress was a favorite of mine.

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I particularly loved Yan by Hannah Cusack.  It was full of lace and feathers. Her designs were beautifully constructed.

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Kaity Rathman had glitz and glamour and it was divine. Every designer did a phenomenal job.

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As one who appreciates the art of fashion, being on the front row of an event like this is truly inspirational.  No doubt this is the first of many more that I will attend!  Fashion Week is full of lights, high heels, breathtaking styles, interesting clashes of color, talented people, and a runway of stunningly beautiful people.  As with many fashion sources, there will be looks that might not fit with the Top Buttons Style.  But I left with tons of ideas from these talented young designers that I look forward to incorporating our Top Buttons Styles into.  These designers are making an impact, and at such a young age!  Many of you reading this article are young as well.  Don't think that your too young to influence culture. It is so true that no matter what your age, you can begin to walk in the direction of your dreams. Excellent job KCFW!  KCFW was a success and caused me to walk away ready for the next event.

 

Article by: Rebekah Miura  Photographs by: Reagan Miura

Central Florida Ladies, Join us for the First Ever Top Buttons Swap and Shop!

Not Your 80s Denim

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Trendsetters beware! Shoulder pads and leg warmers have remained in the past but their denim counterpart of the 80's is trending forward! Denim on denim is a must-have look that is here to stay. Granted, denim from the 80's was all about the acid wash and matching denim from head to toe. The current denim trend is mixing denim pieces and washes for contrast. Pictured is a light wash boyfriend jacket paired with a dark wash skinny jean. Now it is quite obvious that the jacket contrasts with the jean, but styling different washes modernizes this 80s craze. As for the blouse, go for prints. Prints offer a bolder look to the denim on denim. Add a vibrant embellished clutch for a pop of color and a "men’s-like" watch to complement the boyfriend style jacket and the finishing touches are complete.

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Erin's Closet Remix

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Meet Erin, a DIY enthusiast from Kansas City, Missouri. Erin wanted a new look without breaking the bank. I was happy to jump in and help put together an outfit made up of her own wardrobe along with a few new items. IMG_2555

While chatting with Erin about what kind of a look she wanted, she said that she loved her summer dresses and would love to find a way to wear them in the cooler months. With this in mind, I went through her closet and pulled a dress, leather jacket, tights and some fun wedges.

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Her outfit needed some polish so we hit up our local H&M in search of some accessories where we found a statement necklace and a fun, unexpected purse. We completed the look with a couple trendy bracelets and a gold watch.

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For Erin’s hair, we gave her some loose curls. For her make-up I kept it light and playful. I did a cat eye, pink cheeks, and a nude lip.

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Erin looks great in her new look! She had all the right clothing, it was just a matter of pairing them correctly and adding the right accessories. Erin is excited to get her summer dresses out of storage and back on the hangers.

 

 

*Below are links to similar items worn above.

Dress  Jacket  | Tights  Shoes  | Purse

 

Article by: Rebekah Miura  Photography by: Reagan Miura

 

 

 

sailor chic ootd

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Spring break is right around the corner, and we are loving the nautical look for Spring. It is not only versatile, according to Teen Vogue, but it gives you a simple and clean look. Pairing nautical navy stripes with a pop of color keeps the Springtime interesting and colorful!

 

#1 Oscar Inspired Trend

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With the annual Oscar award show comes fabulous trends worn by celebrities on the red carpet. One of the most popular trends according to Seventeen.com seen this year was floral appliqué. The items shown above are visual examples of floral appliqué sweaters, shirts, bags, and shoes that can be found in your favorite department store, or store of choice. With this trend gaining popularity, you should have no problem finding something floral and spring-inspired to wear this season!