Incredible Kids: Parker Krex of Brick Loot

Subscription kits are all the rage. But, until now, there hasn’t been one targeted at children who love to build with LEGOs. That all changed when Parker Krex decided to create a subscription “brick” toy kit called Brick Loot that supplies kids with new building block toys like Legos on a regular basis. The catch? Krex […]

Incredible Kids: Lily Born and Her Kangaroo Cup

For as long as she can remember, Lily Born, 12, of Skokie has been designing and making things. She started out “making the most ridiculous inventions in the world,” she recalls—like the “nose pillow,” a tiny pillow for resting one’s nose. Then, when Lily was about 8, she noticed that her paternal grandfather’s Parkinson’s disease […]

14 Exceptional Father’s Day Gifts

Dads can be hard to shop for, but they deserve the best on their special day. Here are 14 exceptional Father’s Day gifts for the man who seems to have everything. 1. Harry Winston Project Z8 Limited Edition Automatic Timepiece If you really want to spoil dad, what better way than with a Harry Winston watch? […]

Where’s the Viagra for Women?

You’ve seen the ads. Rugged middle-aged man, oozing virility, builds campfire, obviously capable of meeting all of life’s physical challenges. Mature couple dances on beach; man confident he’s ready to perform when things turn frisky. Campaigns for drugs like  and Cialis strongly reinforce the idea that men deserve to enjoy sex throughout their lives, but when it […]

Must-Read Family Road Trip Tips

When you travel with your family by plane, you imply that the destination is the goal. When you take a road trip, you make a different declaration: There’s value in the journey. You have set your sights on discovering hidden gems and embracing the Zen-like qualities of the open road. A road trip offers a chance […]

Spring 2015 Trend Watch: Black & White

Always a classic color combination, the spring runways once again embraced the crisp look of black and white head to toe. For a ladylike take on the trend, try this stunning look available at North Shore Exchange, Glencoe’s charitable, upscale resale shop. This classic Prada dress features a bold black stripe at the hem, neck and […]

New Trend in Eyewear: Buffalo Horn

Buffalo horn is a unique natural product. It is lighter than plastic, gentle on the skin and allergy safe. Create your own unique frame with layers of horn, or add in antique British silks or carbon fibre between the sheets to create different, but striking, effects. Buffalo horn comes from natural sources and is a sustainable, […]

Hot Flash! Summer Beachwear for the Whole Family

From beach to pool, keep the kids looking fresh in these summery ensembles. Mom and dad can look chic while the kids make a fashionable splash with their friends in the water.   For Mom: Caftan, $275, J.McLaughlin Hat, $20, Lad & Lassie Robert Marc Marigot sunglasses, $450, Optique Louenhide perforated leather tote, $118, Sara Campbell […]

Best Of 2015: Vote Now!

Summer has finally arrived, which means it’s time for Make It Better’s annual “Best Of” survey! From restaurants to theaters, salons to boutiques, wedding vendors to landscapers, each year we poll you—our fabulous audience—to determine which businesses and resources are leading the pack in Chicago and on the North Shore. Voting is now closed. The winners […]

Bathing Beauties: This Season’s Best Swimsuits

You’ve waited all winter to trade in that snow shovel for a sand shovel. Now it’s time to stand out in a sea of beachgoers with swimsuits that fit every occasion. Here are a few trends to warm up to: Checks, Please! “The retro look is very trendy for spring and summer,” says Carrie Londe, owner […]