Why Every Pre-teen Should Have A Blazer

TBGirls-50.jpg

TBGirls-53Whether you are a mom of a pre-teen or a pre-teen yourself reading this post, we have to say, a pre-teen is NOT too young to own a blazer.  In fact we believe, if you don't have one, it should be at the top of your list on your next shopping trip! Summer is a time of freedom.  No one wants to be constricted or restricted by what they are wearing.  But having just the right light-weight blazer, can take a playtime look and make it a classy and professional one.  Young ladies need practice dressing professionally.  One day they will enter the workforce and practice makes perfect!  It isn't difficult to add a little structure to your look to change the entire vibe!

TBGirls-51

This look just went from pool time, to job interview or summer luncheon with mom.  No matter what age you are, get yourself a light weight blazer for summer! You won't regret it.

Photography by Beth Carter

Hair and Makeup by Yolanda Delacerda 

How to Wear A Graphic T-Shirt

TBGirls-34.jpg

Looking to add a playful edge to your summer outfits? Try a graphic tee! They are incredibly versatile and add a fun twist to a variety of looks. Graphic t-shirts are not reserved for casual outfits alone, you can absolutely wear them with dressier pieces. Pairing them with a skirt looks classy and sophisticated. We especially love a skirt with a pattern, it adds depth and personality to an outfit.

Don't forget to accessorize! Graphic tees look ultra stylish paired with a statement necklace. Try opting for one with tassels, they are a huge trend right now. We especially love this one from Nordstrom.

TBGirls-35

One of the best things about a graphic t-shirt is that it's inexpensive and easy to find. So, if you're wanting to spruce up your summer wardrobe, picking up a graphic top is the perfect place to start!

Happy Styling,

Rebekah

Photography: Beth Carter

The Minimalist Life

IMG_7792WEB.jpg

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

IMG_7985WEB IMG_7968WEB IMG_7957WEB

Members from our staff, volunteers, and interns gathered to show off their minimalist looks! (The key to capturing a great minimalist #OOTD is to photograph against simple backgrounds.) IMG_7919WEB IMG_7893WEB IMG_7874WEB

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

IMG_7861WEB IMG_7849WEB IMG_7837 WEB

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

Summers Most Wearable Trend

PhotoGrid_1434674705650.jpg

One of the exciting things about fashion is that there is no right or wrong way to showcase your style. Whether you live in the city, the suburbs, or the country your geographical location should not limit your creativity to express yourself through your wardrobe. One of this summers most sought after trends is Western inspired. You don't have to live out west to appreciate this trend so go ahead and break out those cowboy boots! Just because it's summer doesn't mean that you have to lose the layers. Looking for an easy way to add some personality to your outfit? Try layering with a fringe cardigan or a fringe purse.

00112214-02

 8abad2c85b9dc15e9ed331242f4d23dd

 Cowboy boots are a fun way to add some flare to a cute summer dress. So whether you are heading out to lunch with the girls or enjoying music from your favorite concert try complimenting your look with a western touch!

 CO_2013_07_08_women_boot_OLDGRINGO_CORRAL_DANPOST_OG-L841-3_COR-C2685_DPOST-DP3544_LSWM0001_600xANY_BLOG

For more western themed clothes and accessories check out: www.forever21.com.

Written by: Amanda Jacobs 

Photos via Pinterest

 

How To Look Fierce in Cobalt

unnamed-3.jpg

Top Buttons kicks off each season with a stylish photo shoot showcasing some of the latest trends. We love the statement made when choosing a bold color like cobalt for an everyday outfit. Checkout some of the photos from our Summer shoot on how to look fierce in cobalt.

unnamed 2

 Accessorizing with calming, warm shades can help tone down the powerful statement cobalt brings to an outfit. You can do this by adding a soft pink or tan necklace as seen here to complete a needed contrast in the overall look.

unnamed

 Throw on a pair of lightly distressed denim, skinny jeans and your casual outfit is complete!

BQcDAAAAAwoDanBnAAAABC5vdXQKFmxKM1JYellEUmdhb25hQkJWM2w4VVEAAAACaWQKAXgAAAAEc2l6ZQ

 

Cobalt is such a fun color to play around with. It allows us ladies to feel confident and fearless! Two personality traits that come in handy when interning at the office. Throw on a black blazer with a striped top and gold accessories and you are ready to take on the world!

 

For more great cobalt tops and bottoms checkout this website.

 Written by: Amanda Jacobs

Photos courtesy of: Elisabeth Huijskens

 

 

 

 

 

An Easy Summer Look

image22.jpg

Loose fitting, free flowing clothing has become a popular style these days. This trend is flattering on most body shapes and provides maximum comfort. For today's article, Destiny models this ever so popular loose fitting, flowy look! We have broken down her outfit piece by piece and found some similar items for you to purchase!


[ T O P ]

The length of her basic white tank is ideal because it falls just past her waist-line. Draped over her tank is a floral kimono featuring a lace hem. The light-weight layering is perfect for those breezy summer days because it lets air travel through the material.

White Tank

| White Tank: Cotton On - $15 |

Floral Kimono

| Kimono: H&M - $20 |


[ B O T T O M S ]

Destiny's skinny jeans are cuffed at the ankles (cuffs are a trendy way to hide the fact that you can't find the perfect-length pants), and feature rips along the pant legs for a distressed look.

The Forever 21 model's pant length fit her perfectly in these similar jeans, so  wearing them with and without cuffs looks good. When shopping, finding the right pant length is all about availability and preference!

Ripped Jeans

| Ripped Jeans: Forever 21 - $25 |


[ S H O E S ]

Tan strappy shoes with a cork wedge are a closet-staple! Summer shoes like Destiny's are so versatile that they can be paired with anything! Although she wears it with jeans and a cute top, you could also wear them with a cute romper or summer dress. These Charlotte Russe wedges are similar in style and color palette, but rather than cork wedges, there's a braided hemp.

Tan Strappy Wedges

| Wedges: Charlotte Russe - $35.99 |


[ A C C E S S O R I E S ]

Destiny's bronze owl pendant necklace is the kind of accessory that matches any outfit with a neutral color palette. We were able to find the SAME necklace that Destiny wears, and luckily for you, this necklace is so popular that we've seen it in other stores such as Etsy, Amazon, and even Wal-Mart!

Owl Necklace

| Necklace: Claires - $12.50 |


Owl Necklace   Destiny

If this article has inspired your summer wardrobe, send us a pic or use the hashtag #TopButtons on social media.

Top 4 Reasons to Love Preteen Style

TBGirls-72

We all know fashion is no longer defined by age. Preteen style isn't frilly dresses anymore! These ladies are learning more about what they like and don't like everyday. With that in mind we should love, encourage, and get inspiration from their creative looks. At Top Buttons, we can't get enough of their LOVE of LIFE and each other! We asked some young ladies to wear their favorite summer looks for this photoshoot. The outcome couldn't have been orchestrated any better if we would have chosen the outfits for them. So here are our Top 4 Reasons to Love Preteen Style... Take a look.

1. Preteens LOVE clothing items which are Bright and Fun!

TBGirls-48

Ever found yourself buying that same neutral or black item over and over again?  Your tween self would have totally gone with a neon or bright color, no questions asked!  Embrace color this summer!

2. Preteens will try a new style or trend without fuss!

TBGirls-59

As they continue to develop their own unique style, this age group isn't afraid to branch out and try something new with their wardrobe.  Aztec, chambray, you name it, and they will try it.  Mixing patterns and colors are a must and it's a great way to maximize your wardrobe.

3. Preteens love to capture fashion and friendship!

TBGirls-55

TBGirls-64

TBGirls-63

You know it's true.  A Preteen does not miss a moment to snap a pic of their new look with their closest friends. Why not make the most of a great outfit, smile, and camera combo???  During summer, it is a most opportune time.

4. Preteens NEVER FORGET their favorite accessories to complete every look!

TBGirls-33

TBGirls-35

Everything about this outfit just works!  Try not to be so predictable with your accessories. Mixing things up a bit by adding a totally different color to your shoes or jewelry will add some spunk in your step and some serious interest to your outfit.

Now we all know, clothing which line the shelves for preteen's is often not... hmm... How shall we say it?...  age appropriate or modest.

Finding shorts which aren't too short for those growing legs, being bold without being offensive, showing off your mood as it changes day to day, all add to the difficulty of expressing individual style with healthy boundaries. But we've seen it done and done well.

Fashion is ART. We believe the preteen is pretty amazing. She is one who is worth the extra time to find clothing which fits properly and sends a message to the world that she is way more than just a body. She has a beautiful spirit, a heart to give, a strength to overcome, a mind to change the world around her and some spunk to make us all forget our troubles.

TBGirls-74

At Top Buttons, we want to give our tween followers a chance to share their style and healthy self-confidence with the world.  This is why we have decided to start featuring them right here on topbuttons.org!  With this in mind, We have also started an Instagram account devoted to preteens, @tb_girls!

TBGirls-71 bw

We want to hear what you love the most about this age group AND their fashion sense. Let us know in the comments below! We can't wait for our next preteen photoshoot!


Hair and Makeup: Yolanda Delacerda Photography:   Beth Carter

Don't Chuck Your Chucks

image21.jpg

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

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


white churcks

High-top Chuck Taylors Converse - Kohls - $55

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


Screen Shot 2015-05-11 at 9.44.52 PMWomen's Hazel Quilted Hi-Top Sneaker -Target - $35

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


Cotton On

Jemma Hitop Sneakers - Cotton On - $30

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


AnnieElisabeth Huijskens Photography

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

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

Why You Should Invest In A Lace Dress

IMG_8982.jpg

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

 

c950x1024

 

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

Dress | Shoes

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

Happy Styling,

Rebekah

Photography by: Elisabeth Huijskens

Summer Trends On A Budget

flower-crowns-white-pants.jpg

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


white pants

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

Walmart | Forever 21 | Target


flower crowns

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

Charlotte Russe | Forever 21 | Target


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

 

The Ultimate Color Combo: Blush And White

IMG_8867.jpg

Ask any fashion expert or fashionista and they will tell you that neutrals are the building blocks of a successful wardrobe. These staples allow you to easily mix and match pieces along with creating a solid base to incorporate colors and patterns. Neutrals are an absolute must have in every girl's closet. IMG_8826

When you think of neutrals, you automatically think black, white or grey, but blush is a neutral that is a wonderful addition to any closet. It’s ultra feminine and can be worn with many color palettes and patterns.

A popular color combination to wear is blush and white. These two neutrals complement each other well and the addition of gold in the accessories adds a bit of glam and polish to the look.

IMG_8879

What's your favorite neutral or color combo to wear? Let us know in the comments below!

To purchase outfit items similar to the look above click the links below:

Tank | Jacket | Jeans | Watch | Necklace | Purse

Happy Styling,

Rebekah

Photography by: Elisabeth Huijskens

The Perfect Everyday Summer Look

image3.jpg

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. image1

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.

image4

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 / BandeauJeans / Shoes / Bracelets

Photography by: Elisabeth Huijskens

The Moto Jacket For Summer

IMG_8152WEB.jpg

The moto jacket was the hot ticket item to keep the chill off this past season. For many, it was a daily staple worn with anything and everything. However, with temperatures rising, it's time to find a lighter alternative that keeps us cool without  sacrificing the edgy factor of the moto jacket. Meet the moto vest, the trendy sleeveless version of the moto jacket. It's lightweight and versatile enough to be a staple in your summer wardrobe. Layering always adds a wow factor to an outfit, this vest is perfect for the warmer months.

IMG_8148WEB

Like the moto jacket, this vest comes in a vast variety of colors, prints, and materials. We love chambray because it can basically be worn with anything. We're all about stocking our closets full of pieces that can be styled several different ways. For more vest inspriration and ways to wear them, click here and here.

To purchase a vest similar to the one pictured above, click here.

 

Happy Styling!

Rebekah

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! kristin-cavallari-levis

 

 

00070633-02

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.

36971471785e60e0477c943074004cc5

a5f8f2cad581ce393dbc3df28659cadb

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).

276bf9a83148084626871d9c50fc029c

hmprod

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

3 Ways To Wear Gingham

The go-to print for spring is gingham. It's a classic that is re-surfacing as a must have pattern to have in your wardrobe this season. Here are a few ways to style this charming, ladylike print. Wear it loose and untucked with a pair of distressed boyfriend shorts. Top it off with a hat, aviators, and clutch and you have an edgy, laid back outfit that's perfect to wear on a casual day out on the town.

  6ef12060d2470d8a30d1b058fb383eb6

{image via}

Dresses are key this spring. Go beyond the standard gingham print shirt and wear a dress. This one is adorable.

c3a116bd3d7edd2fdef0edda9e6e46bd

{image via}

Be daring and pair gingham with another pattern, like floral. A tip for successfully mixing prints is making sure the patterns have a grounding color that flows throughout the look. In this outfit, blue is in the floral top and the pants. The coral shoes complement the color found in the shirt.

bd868fe07e409cf76140ffc67a8ea908

{image via}

Will you be wearing this trendy print for spring? If so, how will you style it? Let us know in the comments below!

 

Happy Styling,

Rebekah

50th Annual ACM Awards: Our Picks For Best Dressed

reese-witherspoon_770.jpg

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-cassidy-black

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-white-dress-acm-awards-2015-h724

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.

troy-aikman-acm-awards-2015

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.

50th Academy Of Country Music Awards - Arrivals

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.

Shop Spring's Hottest Trends: Long Vests and Fringe

IMG_8039WEB.jpg

Long vests and fringe are two popular trends this season. They were all over the Spring/Summer 2015 runways and were two of the bigger hits to grace the catwalk. Long vests are perfect for layering, adding interest to an outfit, and creating a long, lean silhouette. You can achieve a large variety of looks depending on your vest. From minimalist to bohemian, there’s a style that fits every personality.

70's inspired boho looks are huge this season, hence the comeback of fringe. You can find it on just about everything, from skirts to tops to bathing suits. It's fun, carefree, and slightly edgy.

IMG_8006WEB The above look knocks out two trends at once. The lightweight vest with fringe embellishment is the highlight of this outfit. Not to mention the on-trend fedora and chunky sandals.

To achieve a similar look, click the links below:

Hat | Tank | Vest | Pants | Shoes

Happy Styling,

Rebekah

Photography by: Elisabeth Huijskens

Get Zendaya's Look Without Paying the Price

zendaya1.jpg

Zendaya Coleman made her way to fame in 2010 on the Disney Channel hit show called Shake It Up. Airing in 30 minute episodes, the show follows the friendship of two teenage girls: Rocky (Zendaya Coleman) and CeCe (Bella Thorne). This dynamic duo is best known in the show for both their passion for dancing and their funky mix-and-matched fashion choices.

shake it UP

 

These ladies are just as trendy in real life too! Let's take a glimpse specifically at Zendaya's street style.


Zendaya is often seen wearing boyfriend jeans (as pictured above). Blogger Sincerely, Jules captured Zendaya's look PERFECTLY in her celfie shirt and boyfriend jeans. Check out how you can accomplish a style similar to both Sincerely, Jules & Zendaya.

zendaya fashion

Here, Jules puts a fun twist on the selfie trend with her loose-fit "CELFIE" graphic tee. It's simple with its black-on-white text to tee combo and slouches over her boyfriend jeans.

Her jeans feature distressed rips, a baggy fit, and are cuffed at the bottom. Along with their cute look, boyfriend jeans are such a favorable trend because they are COMFORTABLE , leaving room to move and breathe. Jules successfully rocks the layered look by tying a camouflaged utility jacket around her waist.

Playing on the tomboy look, with her loose-fitting clothes and camouflage accents, she still keeps it classy and girly with her shoes and accessories: Wayfarer frames, a polka-dotted cross-body purse, and her Valentino-inspired pumps (which is our favorite).


Here's Where to Purchase Everything:

Target: Celfie Shirt | Sincerely, Jules: Celfie Shirt

Boyfriend Jeans

Camouflage Utility Jacket

Valentino Inspired Pumps (Check out our article for more info on the Pumps)


Here are other looks by Zendaya Coleman that we absolutely adore:

Zendaya-Fashion copy

4 Winning Looks from the 2015 MTV Movie Awards

shailene-woodley-mtv-movie-awards-2015-06.jpg

This year's MTV Movie Awards featured a wide variety of looks. Actresses (such as Pitch Perfect 2's Rebel Wilson and Kelly Osbourne) rocked black, chic looks, while  others (such as Bella Thorne and Victoria Justice) chose bold outfits that included lots of color and pattern mixing. Here are the ensembles we consider red carpet (or in the case of these awards, blue carpet) winners. shailene-woodley-mtv-movie-awards-2015-06

Sunday night was a big night for young actress Shailene Woodley, who you may have seen in the Divergent series or The Fault in Our Stars. She started out the evening by boldly taking on the blue carpet with an interesting take on pattern mixing. Shailene's look was one of the more casual of the night, but we love how she chose to mix thin stripes with a tribal print. Also, her red lips really pop with the look and add a fun flare, which is fitting for the 23-year-old. Shailene took home the awards for best female performance for The Fault In Our Stars, in which she gave a memorable speech that brought the author of The Fault In Our Stars, John Greene, to tears.

rs_634x1024-150412160510-634.Brittany-Snow-MTV-Movie-Awards.MS.041215

Pink seemed to be a hot color at the awards, and Pitch Perfect 2's Brittany Snow brought back the popular color-blocking look in a classy and fun way. Her slicked-back hair really leaves the bright look polished and sophisticated.

The 2015 MTV Movie Awards - Arrivals

Scarlett Johansson (The Avengers Age of Ultron) was wearing one of the most trendy looks of the night with her jumpsuit, which she paired beautifully with a turquoise clutch. We love the details of her look, like the subtle cut-out neckline.

enhanced-12767-1428880727-5

Awkward actress Molly Tarlov rocked an ultra feminine, pretty, all-white dress. The shape of her dress makes it unique and we love the simplicity of her hair and subtle silver shoes. Simplicity is always in, and white is another hot color this season!

To compare trends from this year's MTV Movie Awards and the 2014 awards, click here.