The Drugstore Ten

Who doesn't love a good deal?! With cosmetics being so expensive these days, it is always satisfying to find quality products at a good price. Today, I am sharing ten of my drugstore favorites. Crest white strips have always been a drugstore staple that can be found in my beauty stash. They work especially well paired with their vivid white toothpaste.

Essie's Sand Tropez is my polish of choice when I want a natural manicure that will go with anything.

For a night out on the town, I love to wear Ardell's false lashes in 110. I use DUO lash adhesive so they don't budge, and finish the look with Loreal's Voluminous mascara.

Maybelline's Eye Studio gel liner is my pick for a drugstore liner. It has excellent color pay off, a great creamy texture, and glides on smooth. Elf's smokey eye pallette works incredibly well for being a mere $1.00. I use this pallette when I want to play up my eyes and add a dramatic effect. Revlon's lipstick in the shade Siren has received a lot of use from me this summer. It's a beautiful and bright, orangey- red color. Lastly, I daily reach for Rimmel's eye liner in white. I use it to line the inner rims of my eyes and  the inner corners. Their lip pencil in 049 Natural is a great nude shade that pairs nicely with many different lipstick colors.

It's always fun to try new beauty products at the Drugstore. At this price point, it makes it easy to try out different kinds of makeup that we may not normally try. What are some of your drugstore beauty favorites? Let us know in the comments below.

Happy Styling,

Rebekah

Photos by: Rebekah Miura

Full Skirts Ahead

It is about that time of year! Before you know it, warm summer days will transform to crisp and cool weather. As for Fall Fashion trends...they are already here! But instead of sending a trench coat your way, ease your way into a garment that will bode well during the transition from one season to the next. We suggest one of Fall Fashion's favorites, full skirts!

Full skirts usually range from above the knee to mid calf but offer an array of styling options. The more popular version of the full skirt hits right above the knee. Below are a few examples (some offer a relaxed look while others are more structured).

If you are not completely satisfied with this particular version of full skirts, try a midi version. "Midi" full skirts can fall to the calf (depending on height). This sister skirt showcases just as much class if not more than the latter [shorter] full skirt, and is just as versatile.

- Jenna O.

Skirts in feature image:

Classy | Sleek | Feminine

The Mix: Maximize Your Wardrobe

These 6 wardrobe staples are essentials to have in your closet this season. Denim, floral, stripes, and polka dots are all patterns that are excellent to use for mixing. Think of them as neutrals. These patterns can be incorporated into an outfit as accessories or they can be more of a focal point when worn as tops or bottoms. Get the most out of your wardrobe this season by taking time to mix patterns and try new outfit combinations. You may be surprised at the outfits you already have in your closet! Your friends will think you went on a shopping spree and your pocketbook will thank you!  

Happy Styling,

Rebekah

Striped Shirt (similar) | Denim Shirt | Polka Dot Shirt (similar) | Floral Skirt | Red Pants (similar)

Necklaces (left to right): 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 (similar)

DIY: UPCYCLING A DRESS INTO A TOP

Shorts, dresses, shirts, shoes! We grow out of our clothes but sometimes are still in love with them. Well, Miss Danielle has a solution to upcycling our dresses into shirts.

Now while there are no green thumb-like requirements, you will need to have access to a sewing machine* (or be handy with a needle and thread). Other staples include:

• Dress(es)
• Measuring tape/ Ruler
• Scissors
• Thread
• Sewing machine*/ Needle

First off, select a dress that you are willing to cut up. It could be a dress that has shrunk or is too short, or it could be a dress that you have had for years and want to bring to life. Next you will need to measure the length you want the shirt to be. You will then cut the garment leaving you with the start of your new top! *Before cutting the garment, keep in mind that sewing the hem will change the desired length of the top.* Once you have scrapped the remains of your OLD dress you will then measure out the length of the hem. Using a sewing machine is the quickest way to hem a garment, but the good ole fashion way with a needle and thread will give you similar end results. If you are NOT capable with either option, take your garment to a local seamstress or tailor. This option is stress free and most shops will charge no more than fifteen dollars. For a DIY post on How To make a Chevon Knuckle Ring, click here!

So next time you go to toss an old dress or even your JEWELRY, stop and think of the option of upcycling!

-Jenna O.

--Tops featured above are the result of upcycling--

Makeup by: Ashley Carrel

Photo credit: Sarah Powers

Images Edited by: Jen Duarte

How to Style A Maxi Skirt Two Ways: Day To Night

Maxi skirts are great foundational piece to have in your wardrobe. They are versatile skirts that can be worn day or night. This single skirt can be the foundation for several outfits. Today, I'll highlight two looks using the same maxi skirt and tank top combination. The first is a daytime look. This outfit is perfect for lunch with friends, shopping, or sightseeing. The lightweight, airiness of the skirt keeps you cool and unscathed from the heat, the laid back accessories keep it comfy and casual, yet stylish.

The second look is a classy evening ensemble. Sandals are swapped out for a pair of ankle strap heels, a chunky statement necklace replaces the light weight 3 strand necklace, a clutch takes the place of the straw tote, and a leather jacket is added for warmth and gives an edge to the outfit.

Taking an outfit from day to night does not have to be complicated. Jumping from one event to the next just got easier! The next time you have multiple engagements, try keeping a bag of accessories and a lightweight jacket in your car. Transitioning from daytime to nighttime is a cinch with just a few, simple accessory changes!

Happy Styling,

Rebekah

The following are links to the outfits above:

Daytime look: Skirt | Tank Top | Belt | Shoes: Similar | Necklace: Similar | Purse: Similar | Sunglasses

Nighttime look: Jacket: Similar | Shoes | Necklace: Similar | Clutch: Similar

The D Word

I have talked to a ton of people who dread going to school because of something seemingly petty. No matter what, it’s something that applies to - though it may not bother - everyone. It’s something we all have to take into consideration when we’re shopping, applying for a job, when we’re choosing what to wear in the morning, and when it gets to the middle of the day and that cami stacked under two other layers really seems like something that should be shed purely for survival. Dress code. It is something that governs everyone, but some people skate around it effortlessly, while other people are getting slapped with violations left and right. Obviously, we all know a lot of it has to do with whether or not your teacher or dean or whoever is having a good or bad day. Sometimes they’re just looking for something to bust, and if your shorts are even .00001 inches too short, you’re done.

So many people try as hard as they can to barely get around the rules. I suspect there are a lot of reasons for that, but mostly because getting called out of class for a dress code violation provides the very attention that’s being sought with the clothes themselves. Maybe we should consider how challenging it is for teachers and bosses to keep everyone on track without having to worry about what someone is wearing.

Often, there is confusion between the concepts of affection and attention. So here is something to think about. What kind of attention do we want to be known for? Will this kind of attention help us reach our goals in life (Since what is publicly posted can't ever be taken down)? Could the attention you are seeking potentially be rooted in a need for real affection from your family and people that care about you?

We do things, say things, and yes - dress a certain way, to attain some sort of reaction from people. Often confusing that for affection - when really, all we’re getting is a short mention at the top of someone’s mind.

This school year, I want to encourage you to respect yourself enough to just keep with the rules. The rules won't go away. One day you will work for a company that will have you in a uniform or request certain professional standards of attire. Will it be another battle then too? If so, the need for attention may cost you your job.

Seek to express yourself - your individuality, your personality, and your creativity - with your clothes. But consider looking deeper into the "why" behind what you are choosing to wear to school. You might as well stand in the courtyard during lunch and yell “LOOK AT ME.”

The rules are rules for a reason. They're in place for the benefit of everyone - including you. Even though we didn't come up with them, for the time being, and most likely in future working situations, we have to follow them. Do it poised and gracefully. After all, the most attractive quality is dignity.

Respect yourselves, girls.

Styling 101: Weekend Picks

The Summer of long days by the poolside and being school free are coming to an end. Although we are trading our swimwear & fashion forward days for uniforms [some of us business attire] we MUST not give up on our weekends. In other words ladies, we cannot forget that we still have the weekends to dress in remembrance of our carefree days.

So without further ado, we now deem every weekend a reTREAT! Here are two of our favorite -completely different- picks to get your weekend started!

First up is the infamous nautical themed look. We chose to play with the contrasting shades of blue, the lighter hue to brighten the look, and the darker blue to be the root color of the outfit. Add simple studs and fabulous sunnies to complete the head-to-toe style.

Blouse | Skirt | Tote | Flats | Sunnies | Studs 

 For the second look, we are taking it to the streets (or the mall, dinner, really wherever you like). The tank dress is casual, but the pop of yellow in the sandals and the matching crossbody adds pizzazz! Did we forget to mention this eye-catching China Glaze polish in Caribbean Temptation?!

Tank dress | Sandals | Crossbody | Polish 

Have a great weekend. Be sure to TREAT yourself!

-Jenna O.

Trend Alert: Ankle Straps

Ankle straps are stealing the show this season and will continue to shine into the Fall. They are a sophisticated shoe that can be paired with both casual and dressy outfits. They look great worn with a pair of cropped pants here and a midi skirt here. The ankle strap elongates the leg and adds a polished look to an outfit. These shoes come in all different colors and patterns and are the perfect way to complete an outfit.  

Happy Styling,

Rebekah

 Red Suede Sandal | Camel Sandals | Black  Ballerina Flats | Color Block Sandals

Black Ankle Cuff Pumps | Leopard Pumps

#TBT: Shorts in a Skirt?

TBT: Part Two

Alrighty ladies, last week we had a "throwback" to snapbacks. So this week it is no surprise that we keep our #tbt in the same fashion era! What two-in-one garment is stealing the spotlight you might ask?! SKORTS!!

Yes the idea of skorts nowadays is "short" lived, but oh how we love them! Skorts are a classic and will always bring us found memories...especially if you thrived in the 80's. Bring this old school look to life by tossing on your traditional high-tops and trendy arm party!

Although skorts can be found at department stores and online ( J.CREW & Lilly Pulitzer ), thrift stores are the best place to finding a unique skort!

So for #tbt go with whatever your heart desires... a feminine floral skort or a ready to wear snapback. Just always remember that fashion has it's throwback Thursdays too!

-Jenna O.

Photo credit: Sarah Powers

Images Edited by: Jen Duarte

Rebekah's OOTD: Casual Chic

Oh, how I love a good pair of boyfriend jeans, a casual top, and heels! It is always fun to add an element of surprise to an outfit, such as a shiny statement necklace paired with a plain t-shirt or heels worn with torn jeans. Casual chic is definitely my cup of tea these days!

I am curious to know what your style is. Leave a comment below and let me know what looks you are loving this season!

 Happy Styling,

Rebekah

Links to outfit pictured above:

Sweatshirt (similar) | Jeans | Shoes | Purse (similar) | Necklace | Watch | Bracelet (similar) | Sunglasses

#TBT: Snapbacks

TBT: Part One

Hashtag Throwback Thursday (#tbt) is flooding the internet and social media today! So we decided to join in the fun and share a throwback of our own: snapbacks.

For decades, snapbacks have made a name for themselves, ranging from quirky colors and fan favorite teams. They have been worn by athletes, music artists, and celebrities alike. I am even positive that you too have worn a snapback, whether it was yours, or a friend's that you snagged for a photo opt in the hallways at school!

Fun Fact: These caps became popular because of the ability to be fitted [the adjustable strap].

Don't forget to #tbt your snapback swag today, especially if you rock a cap the "Fresh Prince" way!

-Jenna O.

Snapback | Vest | Tank | Jeans | Shoes

*Same brands, similar outfit*

Photo credit: Sarah Powers

Images Edited by: Jen Duarte

The Perfect Summer Hat

Fedora hats are all the rage this summer and for good reason! They have the ability to make the simplest of outfits instantly chic. You can wear them with just about any of your summer wardrobe staples: dresses, skirts, shorts, and pants. They also look great with a number of hairstyles, leave your hair down, put it in a side braid, or wear it in a low side bun. Fedoras are a no-fuss accessory that can be worn with so many different looks. For more style inspiration check out our Pinterest board here. If you have a favorite way to wear your fedora, let us know in the comments below!

Happy Styling

Rebekah

*Links to above images left to right.

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5

Six Steps to the Perfect Summer Look + Glitter Eyeliner

by  Make-up Artist Ashley Carrel 

Step one: Use skin type appropriate toner and moisturizer. It's great for oil control, and helps makeup go on smooth and evens texture. A good skin care routine helps enhance and create a great canvas for your everyday makeover. Used on this lovely model, Danielle: BC Spa Facial PHA Regenerating Tonic and BC Spa Facial Moisture Lotion with SPF link

Step two: Choose correct formula of concealer and primer.  Usually for teens an oil free non-comedogenic formula is best. I used a very light and smooth formula in yellow to cover up dark circles under the eyes. I used a bit thicker formula for coverage of breakouts. There are three basic color primers choices:  1) yellow for dark and sallow skin, 2) green to cover pink and red, 3) and mauve (pink) to cover yellow tones common in Asian skin types. Used on Danielle: Secret Agent yellow primer for dark circles and Extra Help concealer in light for breakouts

Step three: Choose skin appropriate foundation. For FL summers I always recommend BC Wet/Dry Perfecting Foundation. It has a perfect balance of powder to the formula, and it blends and soaks up your natural oils throughout the day. Also it has great natural coverage for all skin types and is available in a huge variety of shades. Used on Danielle: Y-2 BC Perfecting Wet/Dry Finish

Step four: Use a good matte bronzer for contouring blush application and a good “pop” color for apple of cheeks. Bronzer is for areas you want to shadow and for the apple of your cheeks. Color may vary for skin types. Used on Danielle: Tuscan Sun Bronzer for mid cheekbone and out to ear applied in circular motions/ Pink Mineral blush for apple of cheek to create that sun kissed, fresh face look.

Step five: Eye primer, eye shadow, eyeliner and mascara. It is especially important for summer to use a good eye primer.  With oils of the day, your shadow can crease and smear. A good primer will keep that from happening. I recommend urban decays primer potion and for a more affordable option, BC control crème.  A good shadow should come with a full palette to work with like BC Color Shadow Trio’s. It provides three colors to accent the different parts of the eye. For a summer fun flare and a fun pop of color I chose a hot pink glitter eye liner! Used on Danielle: BC Control Crème in Taupe /BC color eye shadow trio in Au Natural /Perfecting Eye liner in black /Glitz Hot Pink Glitter /and Glitz Eye Glue to adhere glitter (water based, it's a one of a kind formula)/ for Glitter Eye Liner use angle tip duo shadow brush to apply (press on, not rub on)

Step six: Finish with a nice natural Lip Liner, Lip-gloss and Hydrating spray to set foundation. You can't go wrong with a nude lip for everyday wear! Bright lips are all the rage this summer, but may work best with a softer eye look. Used on Danielle: Nude Lip Perfecting Pencil /Bare BC Color Lip Gloss / and BC Herbal Hydrating Mist to set foundation.  It's also great for a cool down mist for a Hot Summer day. Keep it in your purse and on hand; it’s a hot day life saver!

Article and Makeup by: Ashley Carrel

Photo credit: Elizabeth Garrard

Images Edited by: Jen Duarte

The Color Block Wedge

Fierce & Bold OR flat & boring? It is a simple question that I refer to as "WEDGE you Rather"?!

Deciding on a shoe that adds vavoom to any summer look is no game. Wedges have been, and will always be a summer favorite, but we urge you to spice things up with a color block style wedge!

Color blocking as shown below, ranges from two-toned straps to patterned wedges (the options are limitless).

 

Top row (left to right):  1 | 2 | 3

Bottom row (left to right):  4 | 5 | 6

 So "would you rather" stick to the mundane sandal, or try a few pops of color with a vibrant color block wedge? The choice is all yours...

-Jenna O.

Photo credit:  Sarah Powers

Images Edited by: Jen Duarte

Jewelry Crush

Who doesn't love a statement necklace?! They can take an ordinary outfit and make it extra-ordinary. I have searched high and low for necklaces like the 6 above and I was always left disappointed when I saw the price tag. That is until I met BaubleBar , a jewelry store based out of New York City, with an an on-line store that sells gorgeous, on-trend jewelry that happens to be reasonably priced too! The company offers advice on how to wear the latest jewelry trends, has a team of on-call stylists to assist customers with picking out the perfect accessories, and their site offers a gallery of pictures from people who have purchased the items showing how they styled them...genius! With free shipping and free returns BaubleBar is at the top of my list for on-line jewelry shopping!  

Happy Styling,

Rebekah

*Links to above necklaces.

1 | 2 |  3 | 4 | 5 | 6

Get This Look: Jenna's Bold Eye Makeup

The colors of this season are soo exciting for a makeup artist like myself.  Bright and bold, just like me! LOL!  Pops of color have always been a great way to play up your makeup. However, pairing a bold lip and bold eye without looking like a clown, can be tricky.  To recreate Jenna’s fun Bold Eye Look, follow these easy steps: When using bright and pigmented colors, it essential that you prime your skin properly to ensure the makeup stays put!  On Jenna we used the Glo Conditioning cream to hydrate, then immediately primed her skin with the Glo Face Primer, and more importantly, the Glo Lid Primer.  The lid primer ensures that eye shadow stays put.  It also removes any discoloration and mattifies the eye area.  Other popular brands for priming the eye before shadow include  Urban Decay’s Primer Potion and Two Faced Cosmetic’s Shadow Insurance  which can be picked up from Sephora.

I wanted Jenna’s skin to have that “airbrushed” look so I applied Glo Minerals Satin II Liquid Foundation with a dampened foundation brush and lightly dusted her face with Glo Minerals Perfecting Powder to set.

To give her a soft glow I applied Glo Liquid Highlighter to her cheek bones and down the center of her nose with a taklon fiber fan brush, such a pretty sheen!  I then applied a soft rose pink blush to the apples of her cheeks.

On to the star of the show..the eyes!  Any bright richly pigmented color will work for this look.  I chose a jeweled green.  Apply a pale highlight color (white or cream works best) to the brow bone and inner corner of the eye.  Next apply the color of your choice to the eyelid and just above the crease.  Pat on a little extra color to make sure the color is deep!  Use a clean crease brush to blend the crease and soften edges.  Use this same color and a smudge (or pencil) brush to smudge just underneath the lower lash line.

Next, line the upper and lower lash line. I used Stilla’s smudge pot in black and dragged the upper lash line out a bit to create a little wing.  Then smudge a little black shimmering eyeshadow directly onto the upper and lower lash lines directly over the cream, gel eyeliner.  And finally, add lots of black mascara!

For her lips I tried two different Lip Colors and both looked great with her bold eye.  First I tried Glo Minerals Lip Stick in Socialite, a pale soft pastel pink.  Second, my favorite, I applied Glo Minerals Lip Color in Treasure, a bright intense hot pink - loved it!!

Jenna said she loved her look so much she was going to have to plan something to do that night!!!

Article and Makeup by: Melissa Kinsey

Photo Credit: Elizabeth Garrard

Images Edited by:  Jen Duarte

Must Have Closet Item: The Shirtdress

 Every girl has a t-shirt & jean kind of day (whether we'd like to admit it or not). But having days that freshen up your look and don't require much effort, are not as far fetched as they seem.

The solution to an effortless yet chic look: the Shirtdress. And boy are we all smiles over this "easy going" apparel choice.

Chunky accessories such as this coral necklace are just as effortless as  shirtdresses AND complete the outfit.

Chain Link | Charms | Mint Tear-Drop | Two-Tone Beaded

Here are a few of our favorite picks:

Sleeveless Floral | Gold Button Down | Long-Sleeve Sateen | Rugby Stripes 

-Jenna O.

Photo credit:  Sarah Powers

Images Edited by: Jen Duarte

Summer Sequins

This summer, sequins are making their debut. This trend is proving that glamour isn't just reserved for the Holidays or red carpet events, it can be incorporated into the everyday outfit.  

1 | 2 | 3 (similar)

There are numerous ways to style sequin accessories and clothing. You can pair them with everything from distressed denim to leather! Sequin accessories can be worn day or night. They are the perfect addition to your summer wardrobe.

1 | 2 | 3 

Sequin jackets look great dressed up or down. A popular way to style them is by pairing them with a graphic tee or striped shirt.

1| 2 | 3

Sequin pants add unexpected sparkle to an outfit. They really shine when they are paired with a blazer and heels.

Sequins are a trend that can carry us through summer right into the cooler months. No matter what season they are in, they always makes a statement.

What statement will you be making this summer? Will it include sequins? Let us know in the comments below. We look forward to hearing from you!

Happy Styling,

Rebekah

*The following are links to the top picture in this post.

jean shirt  (similar)| skirt | shoes | necklace

Sustainable Fashion: It’s a state of mind

Lately there’s been lot of discussion around Eco fashion and sustainable consumption. The latter topic doesn't merely focus on the fashion industry, but is also referred to when considering other industries like the food industry, for example. Previously we discussed on Top Buttons about up cycling trends, a phenomenon that has become a trend in itself. It is both fun and helps to extend the life-cycle of garments. Another important aspect to consider is our patterns of behavior when it comes to consuming clothes. Do we buy for the thrill or do we buy to meet a need?

To start with, I think that in one or several stages of life, many of us have fallen victim to buying or acquiring stuff as a product of social pressure and the desire to conform and be a part of the “in crowd”.  Also perhaps we purchased for therapeutic reasons of getting something new to feel better about one’s self. It seems as though the western consumer mentality leans towards the famous adage: He who has the most toys wins. This mentality has given rise to the predominant culture of mass consumption which in turn has a great impact on endangering our environment and the lives of garment producers working to meet our unending desire for MORE. You can read about the conditions which garments are often produced under by reading this article, Sweatshops still make your clothes.

So what can we take from this? Well, how about thinking about what motivates you to buy in the first place. There’s nothing wrong with loving fashion and following new trends. But in the end, making use of what you already have and being the best steward of it, can have a big impact in shaping consumer culture in a positive way. It’s all about our state of mind. If you can be happy and content with the things that you already have and maximize the benefit of their use, you may find yourself loosing the need to acquire slightly varying replicas of what you already have.

Clearly, sustainable fashion is a wide and vast topic that can and should be covered in greater depth. With this being said, I hope to write more on this is the future. Till then I leave you with this passage:

For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we (have the basics of) food and clothing, we will (and should) be content with that. (1 Timothy 6:7- 8)

- Sandra

A Natural Look for Summer with Cream Based Makeup

We live in Florida... hot, humid, sticky Florida.  Make-up during the summer in this kind of climate is tricky, very tricky.  Here are a few tips to make your look stay all day without looking like you are melting: Crème based makeup during the summer is a great way to keep the skin looking fresh, hydrated and glowing and has staying power even in hot + humid weather.  When applying a cream, liquid or gel based makeup it's best to apply with a synthetic brush. Not only will it be much easier to clean, but you will get a much softer and even application. I started by prepping the skin with a light oil free moisturizer (Glo Emulsion).  Rather than using a heavy foundation, I used Glo Minerals Sheer Tint in Golden to even out her skin tone. Brow Powder in Taupe was added with an angle liner brush just to lightly fill them and define the brow.

Following the brows, I applied Glo Mineral’s crème bronzer to warm up her skin and crème blush in plumeria to the apples of her cheeks (soo pretty!).  To give that gorgeous glow we often see on celebrities, I applied Glo Minerals crème highlighter (a pretty sheer shimmery pink) to the tops of her cheek bones and down the center of her nose.  To do this I used a synthetic fan brush.

After using a lid primer, I applied Maybelline’s Color Tattoo, these little magic pots of crème eyeshadow are smudge + crease proof +very water resistant. Trust me when I tell you, they will last all day!!!  The color options in this line are awesome!  I used a brush, but you could use your finger as well.

To finish her eyes, we applied Glo Minerals Crème eyeliner in ebony to the upper and lower lash line.

Since we love love love the bright pink trend of this season and wanted to give her look some “pop”, we used Maybelline’s Lipstick from their “Vivids” line in Brazen Berry! (You can purchase Maybelline's products from any drugstore.) I love this line soo much that I purchased several of the colors and love them all!

To finish her look I lightly dusted Glo Mineral’s Perfecting Powder in her TZone to prevent shine and set her makeup.

You could tell Emily felt very comfortable in this look and she commented that she didn't even feel the makeup!

Written by Melissa Kinsey 

Melissa is a licensed skin care specialist who offers facials and complete skin care, waxing services, makeup consultations and bridal/formal makeup applications (using airbrush or Glo Mineral Makeup). To purchase Glo Mineral Makeup, you may visit the Glo Mineral website or connect directly with Melissa through her facebook page.

Photo Credit:  Elizabeth Garrard

Images Edited By: Jen Duarte