LeAnita Ragland-Brooks: Jewelry Designer, Winnetka

When fifth generation artist LeAnita Ragland-Brooks creates a work of art and sells it—even though she knows it will be worn and appreciated—she has trouble letting go.   “There’s a little separation anxiety,” she says with a laugh. “It’s like a child. It’s a piece of me going out into the world.” But when a […]

Go Natural with Mineral Makeup this Summer

You’ve probably seen ads for mineral makeup and wondered, what’s the hype?   Mineral makeup is simply a natural take on traditional foundation (powder or liquid) that offers a variety of benefits, including some protection from the sun. Usually found in a loose powder form, mineral makeup contains finely crushed minerals such as mica, zinc […]

What's in Your Beach Bag?

Grab your swimsuit, the latest issue of MakeItBetter.net magazine, and enjoy your summer:   Beach Bag This effortlessly chic canvas summer bag (pictured above right, with inside zip pocket and snap closure) will remind you of where you really need to be this summer. $100, J.McLaughlin, jmclaughlin.com (Congratulations to Heidi Burke, our “What’s In You […]

And the Bead Goes On

Sometimes you have to see it to believe it.   For years I’ve heard of this amazing North Shore native who made beautiful clay bead jewelry. But it wasn’t until I stepped into Sandy Rueve’s new Wilmette store—She Beads—and saw the endless shelves of clay, and the thousands and thousands of extraordinary beads that had […]

Not So Plain White Tees

Want to take that basic white tee to the next level?   We’ve created four different looks that rock the Snoop Perfect Cap Sleeve Scoopneck tee from Velvet ($55, Three Sisters). Scarf and go Nothing says “I’m so polished” as much as a stunning silk scarf. The basic square can be tied any number of […]

The Perfect Tee

No matter what the weather is, a fresh, well-fitting tee is always my go-to top of choice.   So with input from some of my favorite North Shore fashionistas, here are five perfect t-shirts.   Hanro: According to Ken Downing, Senior Vice President and Fashion Director of Neiman Marcus, Hanro makes the best all around, […]

Makeup Tips to Get You Radiant for Summer

With summer just around the corner, it’s time to get your face prepped for warm weather with this season’s most radiant makeup.   These tips will have you looking glam, even in the heat! Lips During sunny days, it’s vital to apply a lip balm with SPF, but that doesn’t mean you have to eliminate […]

Viva Vintage! Vintage Jewelry Finds a Home in Winnetka

Whether you’re looking for something sparkly for your next black tie benefit or just a few pieces to throw on before lunch, vintage jewelry is hot right now.   Arch Vintage, a Winnetka Company can help you get your fix. “People have more respect for vintage jewelry in the past couple of years because it’s […]

Summer Shoe-in

One of the best ways to update your wardrobe each season is with a great new pair of shoes.   We asked local shoe expert Lori Oppenheim, of Shirise Women’s Shoes and Accessories in Glencoe, to help Make It Better spotlight this summer’s hottest kicks: Platforms, please This trend has taken summer by storm and […]