Fashion as Empowerment: Celebrating Women’s History Month Through Style

Fashion has always been more than just fabric and trends—it’s a powerful form of self-expression, a tool for empowerment, and a reflection of history. As we celebrate Women’s History Month, we recognize the way style has played a role in women’s journeys toward independence, self-confidence, and breaking societal norms.

Fashion as a Statement of Strength

Throughout history, women have used fashion to challenge expectations and assert their identities. From the corset-free silhouettes of the 1920s flapper era to the power suits of the 1980s, clothing has often reflected shifts in women’s rights and societal roles. Today, fashion remains a statement of strength, with women choosing pieces that represent their confidence, ambition, and individuality.

Dressing for Empowerment

Empowerment through fashion is deeply personal. It’s about wearing what makes you feel strong, beautiful, and capable—whether that’s a structured blazer, a flowy dress, or your favorite sneakers. Confidence doesn’t come from following trends; it comes from embracing what makes you feel most like yourself.

The Women Who Paved the Way

This Women’s History Month, we celebrate fashion icons who have influenced both style and society. Coco Chanel redefined women’s fashion with comfortable yet chic designs, breaking away from restrictive clothing. Michelle Obama used fashion to express grace and power while advocating for important causes. Even today, countless women in fashion, from designers to influencers, use their platforms to inspire confidence and change.

Using Fashion to Uplift Others

Empowerment isn’t just about what we wear—it’s also about how we support each other. Fashion has the ability to create community, from ethical brands uplifting female artisans to style influencers encouraging self-love. When we choose to support women-owned businesses, embrace body positivity, or simply compliment another woman’s outfit, we contribute to a culture of empowerment.

Your Style, Your Power

This Women’s History Month, let’s celebrate fashion as more than just clothing—it’s a reflection of our strength, history, and future. Whether you dress boldly to make a statement or keep it simple and classic, your style is an extension of your power. Wear it with confidence, and never forget the impact that feeling good in your own skin can have on the world around you.

What does fashion empowerment mean to you? Share your thoughts and celebrate Women’s History Month by embracing your personal style with confidence!

Top 5 Cities in the U.S. for Thrifting

If you love the thrill of the hunt, thrifting in these cities offers everything from designer steals to vintage gems and one-of-a-kind finds. Whether you’re after high-end fashion, sustainable shopping, or quirky secondhand pieces, these cities have the best thrift scenes in America.

1. Lakeland, FL (Fastest-Growing Thrifting Destination)

Why? As the fastest-growing city in the U.S., Lakeland is quickly making a name for itself in the thrifting world. The city boasts a vibrant and expanding secondhand scene, highlighted by Top Buttons, a nonprofit thrift boutique that offers high-quality, curated finds while empowering young women through mentorship and educational programs. In addition to its Lakeland flagship, Top Buttons has three other locations in the region—solidifying its influence and offering even more opportunities to thrift for a cause.

Best Spot: Top Buttons – Shop high-end thrift finds while supporting a mission-driven organization that serves young women in need.
Other Notables: The Lakeland Antique Mall for vintage enthusiasts, Goodwill, and various local consignment shops.

2. New York City, NY

Why? NYC’s massive selection of thrift stores ranges from curated vintage boutiques in Brooklyn to massive secondhand warehouses in Manhattan.
Best Spots: L Train Vintage, Beacon’s Closet, Housing Works, The RealReal.

3. Los Angeles, CA

Why? Hollywood’s influence means LA thrift stores are packed with designer pieces at a fraction of retail cost.
Best Spots: Wasteland, Crossroads Trading, Jet Rag, The Council Thrift Shops.

4. Austin, TX

Why? Austin’s creative and quirky vibe makes it a goldmine for both affordable thrift and high-end vintage finds.
Best Spots: Pavement, Blue Velvet, Treasure City Thrift, Buffalo Exchange.

5. Portland, OR

Why? Sustainability is a big deal in Portland, and that’s reflected in its thriving thrift scene.
Best Spots: House of Vintage, Red Light Clothing Exchange, Rerun, The Salvation Army Downtown.

It Takes a Village: Partnering with Academy Prep to Equip and Empower Young Women

At Top Buttons, we believe that empowering young women is a community effort. It truly takes a village, and we are so honored to be part of the one supporting the incredible students at Academy Prep.

Academy Prep is one of over 60 organizations enrolled in our Wearing Confidence Program, ensuring that their students receive the resources and education they need to thrive. Through this partnership, we recently had the privilege of serving a group of eighth-grade girls, providing them with clothing that not only fits but helps them see themselves in a new light.

We don’t just offer clothing—we provide confidence. Research shows that what we wear impacts how we see ourselves and how we perform. When young women step into clothing that makes them feel strong and self-assured, they stand taller, dream bigger, and believe in their potential. We’ve seen it firsthand—students trying on a new outfit and immediately carrying themselves differently. Some even joke, “I feel like a CEO” or “I could be president one day.” And that’s exactly what we want them to see in themselves—their unlimited potential.

This year, we had the special honor of being featured in Academy Prep’s Evening of the Stars fundraising event. The video showcased heartfelt testimonials from a student, a parent, faculty members, and our team at Top Buttons, highlighting the life-changing impact of Academy Prep and the vital role our Mobile Boutique and programs play in equipping these hardworking students. Seeing our mission represented in such a meaningful way was truly humbling.

Yes, we believe in these students. Yes, we are committed to standing alongside Academy Prep in making a difference. And yes, we will continue providing essential resources that help young women step boldly into their future.

Because it truly takes a village—and we are so grateful to be part of theirs.

Empowering Teens: How Support Programs and Fashion Build Self-Confidence

The teenage years can be both exciting and overwhelming. Teens are constantly navigating social pressures, academic responsibilities, and personal growth, all while trying to figure out who they are. One of the most crucial aspects of this stage is developing self-confidence, as it shapes how teens view themselves and interact with the world around them. Unfortunately, many young people struggle with self-esteem due to factors like peer pressure, social media comparisons, and self-doubt.

At Top Buttons, we believe that confidence isn’t just about how teens look—it’s about how they feel. That’s why we’re dedicated to equipping young women with the tools they need to build self-worth through educational programs, mentorship, and access to stylish, confidence-boosting clothing. By combining education with fashion, we create opportunities for personal growth and self-expression, empowering teens to embrace their unique identities.

Understanding the Challenges Teens Face

Self-confidence can be difficult to maintain when teens face so many challenges. Peer pressure often makes them feel like they need to change who they are to fit in, whether that means dressing a certain way, listening to specific music, or even altering their personalities. Social media adds another layer of difficulty, with unrealistic beauty standards and highlight reels that can make teens feel like they don’t measure up.

Academic stress is another major factor. Balancing schoolwork, extracurricular activities, and college preparation can leave teens feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about their abilities. On top of that, family dynamics—such as divorce, financial struggles, or conflicts at home—can create additional emotional burdens. All of these factors can take a toll on a teen’s self-esteem, making it crucial to provide support systems that help them feel valued, capable, and confident.

How Educational Events Build Confidence

One of the best ways to empower teens is through educational programs that teach life skills and foster personal growth. At Top Buttons, we offer workshops and mentorship programs that help young women gain knowledge and develop important skills for their futures.

Workshops on topics like leadership, goal-setting, and self-care provide teens with the tools they need to navigate challenges with confidence. Interactive sessions—such as public speaking practice, career preparation, and financial literacy classes—help them develop real-world skills that will serve them long after their teen years.

In addition to these workshops, group activities and mentorship connections help teens form supportive relationships. Meeting others with similar experiences can make a huge difference in how they see themselves. They realize they’re not alone in their struggles, which helps them build confidence and resilience.

The Power of Fashion in Self-Expression and Self-Esteem

Confidence isn’t just about what’s on the inside—how we present ourselves to the world can also play a role in how we feel. Fashion can be an empowering tool for self-expression, and finding clothing that fits well and reflects personal style can help teens feel more comfortable and confident.

At Top Buttons Boutique, we provide young women with access to stylish, high-quality clothing in an environment that promotes self-worth and positive body image. Unlike mainstream retail stores that focus on fast fashion and unrealistic beauty standards, our boutique encourages teens to embrace their individuality and feel good in their own skin.

Our programs also go beyond shopping—we offer styling sessions that help teens discover what outfits best suit their personality and body type. Personal styling advice can make a huge difference in how someone sees themselves, and when a teen finds an outfit that makes them feel great, their confidence shines through in all aspects of their life.

Creating Effective Support Programs for Lasting Impact

For a support program to truly empower teens, it needs to address all aspects of confidence-building. That’s why Top Buttons takes a comprehensive approach by combining mentorship, education, and fashion to create well-rounded support systems for young women.

Our programs offer:

• Educational Workshops – Covering topics like self-care, leadership, financial literacy, and career development.

• Mentorship Opportunities – Connecting teens with role models who can offer advice, encouragement, and guidance.

• Clothing Assistance – Providing young women with access to stylish, confidence-boosting clothing.

• Community Building – Creating a safe and supportive space where teens can connect and grow.

By addressing both the internal and external factors that influence confidence, we help teens develop a strong sense of self-worth that lasts beyond their teenage years.

Join Us in Empowering the Next Generation

Building self-confidence is essential for teens to thrive, and the right support can make all the difference. Through educational events, mentorship, and fashion, we at Top Buttons are committed to empowering young women to embrace their potential and step into their futures with confidence.

If you’d like to be part of this mission, visit our Top Buttons Boutique in Lakeland, FL, or explore our programs online. Together, we can help teens grow into self-assured, confident young adults who are ready to take on the world.

The Journey of Top Buttons Saint Pete

From a Single Knock to a Community Mission

After two years of planning and preparation, Top Buttons Saint Pete has officially opened its doors, bringing the organization's mission of empowering young women through fashion and mentorship to Pinellas County.

The expansion was spearheaded by Sara Garas, who was inspired to bring the boutique and outreach program to Saint Pete after a life-changing experience.

"It all started a few years ago, on a frigid evening in February," Garas said. "My husband and I heard loud knocking at our front door at 2 a.m. Through our security cameras, we saw a teenage girl, soaking wet and shivering. She had climbed from the water onto our dock, desperate for help. We let her in, and she used our phone to call her mother. I will never forget the tears in that mother’s eyes as she embraced her daughter, whispering, ‘Thank you for saving my daughter’s life.’ That night, I couldn’t sleep. Could human trafficking really be happening here? In my backyard?"

That moment led Garas to research the issue, discovering that Florida has the third-highest human trafficking rate in the U.S. Her passion for supporting young women had deep roots—she previously worked with an anti-trafficking organization in Thailand, where she mentored survivors and helped them regain confidence in their identities.

"From a young age, I’ve had a heart for helping women," she said. "I grew up in Egypt, where women were often considered second-class citizens. But in my household, my sisters and I were always treated as equals. That instilled in me a deep commitment to uplifting other women."

Building a Presence in Saint Pete

For the last two years, the Top Buttons leadership team worked alongside Garas as she prepared to launch the boutique. Located on Central Avenue, just blocks from the beach, the shop is in a high-traffic area surrounded by unique retailers serving the downtown Saint Pete community.

"Sara has demonstrated the commitment, work ethic, compassion, and intelligence needed to execute the Top Buttons mission in Saint Pete," said Sarah Powers, founder and CEO of Top Buttons.

Even before opening, Garas had already begun making an impact. She hosted pop-up shops at the Restored to Dream center, providing clothing to young women rescued from human trafficking. She also spoke at local schools, including Indian Rocks Christian School, Keswick Christian School, Northside Christian School, and Ridgecrest Elementary, educating middle and high school girls about online safety and the dangers of trafficking.

When two hurricanes hit Florida in late 2024, just as she was preparing to open, Garas launched a wardrobe restoration project to help those who lost everything.

"We served 50 women who lost their clothes in the hurricane," Garas said. "This was in partnership with Reach St. Pete, ensuring that women in crisis had access to quality clothing when they needed it most."

Gaining Recognition

Garas has been working to build awareness for Top Buttons Saint Pete, participating in markets and gaining media recognition. The boutique has been:

• Featured twice in STROLL Magazine

• Covered by St. Pete Rising & St. Pete Catalyst

• Interviewed on Radio St. Pete

• Highlighted in Beautiful People on 10TampaBay

• A vendor at Mezzo Market & Shopapalooza

A Boutique with a Mission

The boutique itself is designed to reflect Top Buttons’ mission, featuring gold racks, clean white walls, and a curated selection of high-end designer thrift items. Like the Polk County locations, young women served through the nonprofit will receive mentorship, resources, and quality clothing to help build their confidence.

As the organization continues to grow, Top Buttons Saint Pete is actively seeking team members and volunteers.

"If you're passionate about empowering young women, we’d love to have you join us," Garas said.

Top Buttons Saint Pete is located at:
📍 861 Central Avenue, St. Pete, FL 33701
🕒 Hours: Monday - Saturday, 10 AM - 6 PM

For inquiries, contact Sara Garas at sara@tbstpete.org and follow Top Buttons Saint Pete on social media for updates and upcoming events.

About Top Buttons

Founded in Polk County, Florida, Top Buttons is a nonprofit organization dedicated to equipping young women with confidence, mentorship, and professional attire. Through its boutiques and outreach programs, Top Buttons provides styling services, personal development workshops, and access to affordable fashion to help young women thrive.

How Our Mobile Boutique Changed Lives in 2024

For years, Top Buttons has worked tirelessly to empower young women by providing them with professional clothing, resources, and the confidence they need to succeed. Yet, one recurring obstacle persisted: transportation. Many of our partners faced logistical challenges in bringing their participants to our boutique locations. With only four to six girls able to attend at a time, sessions were often stretched out over weeks or even months.

We knew we needed a solution. We began envisioning a way to eliminate these barriers and bring Top Buttons directly to the girls who needed us most. That dream became a reality in the spring of 2024, thanks to a generous grant from Publix Charities. With their support, we transformed a Dodge ProMaster van into a fully operational Mobile Boutique, ready to hit the road.

Stepping inside the Dodge ProMaster feels like entering one of our physical Top Buttons boutiques. Industrial pipe fixtures, sleek gray flooring, and crisp white walls create the familiar, polished atmosphere our participants love. Yet, it’s more than just an aesthetic experience—it’s a resource hub stocked with everything these young women need to dress confidently and professionally. Our Mobile Boutique mirrors the thoughtful curation of our physical locations. It features a capsule wardrobe of machine-washable, size-inclusive, brand-new professional clothing. High-quality thrifted blazers, cardigans, and layering pieces are donated with care. Essential closed-toe shoes and undergarments are available to complete the look. Whether they’re preparing for an interview, a new job, or a professional event, participants can select from a variety of styles that align with their personal preferences. From sleek suits to versatile separates, every piece is chosen with purpose.

In its first year of operation, the Mobile Boutique made a tangible difference in the lives of countless young women. At Academy Prep, we became an introduction to business casual attire and where it should be worn and provided 20 young women with elevated and proper fitting business casual attire. It won’t be long till these young women will be looking at potential job opportunities and Top Buttons is honored to have set the stage for them to confidently walk into the professional world. At Polk State College, the Mobile Boutique played a vital role in stocking professional and everyday clothing closets, ensuring students could access quality attire on campus. These moments represent just a fraction of the difference the Mobile Boutique made in its inaugural year.

While clothing is central to our mission, the Mobile Boutique is about more than just what’s on the outside. It serves as a practical extension of our Wearing Confidence Program, delivering more than just outfits—it delivers empowerment. Through our Job Readiness Delivery Project, we provide not only clothing but also educational sessions on topics like interview skills, workplace etiquette, and professional presentation. And the versatility doesn’t stop there. Whether it’s back-to-school events or specific clothing requests, the Mobile Boutique adapts to meet the diverse needs of our partners and their participants.

The Mobile Boutique is more than a van—it’s a vehicle of change. It’s a response to the challenges faced by our community and a testament to our commitment to serving young women. By eliminating transportation barriers, we’ve expanded our reach and brought critical resources directly to the girls who need them most. We’re excited to continue offering this service to our enrolled partners and to reach even more young women in the years to come. If you’d like to learn more or request a visit from the Mobile Boutique, please email us at info@topbuttons.org.

This milestone wouldn’t have been possible without Publix Charities who funded the Mobile Boutique Project and without the support of our community. Your donations enable us to provide not only gently used items but also brand-new, professional, and machine-washable attire that helps young women step into their future with confidence. Thank you for being part of our journey in empowering young women. Together, we’re creating brighter, more confident futures—one outfit at a time.