As rising stars of Chicago’s media scene, Make It Better’s Marjie Killeen and Beth Engelman wanted to reinvent their style for upcoming corporate speaking and television gigs.
You can change your look this fall, too. Start with pieces that can be worn both at the office and out on the town.
On the Job
| Black-and-white sleeveless dress, $195, J.McLaughlin Red belt with fox clasp,$75, J.McLaughlin Earrings,$24, Sara Campbell Marc Bernstein bracelet, $190, Willow Boutique | Red-and-blue printed dress, $368, Sara Campbell Drop necklace, $120, Sara Campbell Marcia Moran drusy stud earrings, $147, Willow Boutique |
Working Lunch
| Wrap dress, $195, J.McLaughlin Belt, $68, J.McLaughlin Natalie B vintage bracelet, $225, Willow Boutique | Navy Blouse, $148, Sara Campbell Printed pants, $168, Sara Campbell Clover hoops, $75, Sara Campbell Kooba bag, $598, Willow Boutique Marc Bernstein bracelet, $190, Willow Boutique |
After-Work Drinks
| Printed pencil skirt, $165, J.McLaughlin Long-sleeved T-shirt, $68, J.McLaughlin Leather jacket, $475, J.McLaughlin Sonia Renee green drop necklace, $57, Willow Boutique | Sleeveless blouse, $198, Sara Campbell Lace skirt, $225, J.McLaughlin Marcia Moran druzy three-tier earrings, $245, Willow Boutique Lucky Star Jewels necklace, $155, Willow Boutique |
Before
MARJIE KILLEEN Our Sex & the Suburbs writer wanted to spruce up her wardrobe as she transitions from mostly working at home to hosting more events and presentations. With the aim to be more sophisticated and professional, we took Marjie out of her usual uniform of jeans and T shirts and had her run the gamut, from cocktail dresses to printed pants. The final looks suited a variety of her needs: the sheath dress for a more professional setting, the printed-pants outfit for a casual meeting, and the lace skirt and blouse for an on-stage discussion. With a few quick swipes of a flat iron and a little accentuating makeup, she was quickly transformed into a contemporary working woman. | BETH ENGELMAN This busy mom and journalist was looking to modernize her look, admitting that she still sports clothes purchased more than a decade ago. She wanted something to replace her three usual on-camera outfits for her local news spots and some fun pieces for going out. We also had to wean her from gravitating toward everything in black. Her three final looks got her out of the sweats and proved that dressing up can be just as comfortable (while making you feel even better). From a party-appropriate sleeveless dress to a sleek leather jacket and pencil skirt combo, these outfits updated her style and upgraded her confidence. With flirty curls and a bit of makeup, the makeover was a success, matching her new aesthetic with her bubbly personality. |
Photos by John Reilly Photography
Hair and Makeup by Nafissa Panahi, beauty advisor; Lindsey Ryan, hair stylist; and from Elizabeth Arden Red Door Spa, Deerfield
All shoes are models’ own
