The Better Letter

Etsy is an international online mecca for all things handmade, art, or vintage, and with the holidays upon us, it’s a great resource to find that one-of-a-kind gift.

Finally, you won’t have to listen wistfully to your far-flung friends as they brag about all the great, affordable denim, downtown-chic clothes and accessories they found at Madewell.

If you ask Maclund Gallery co-owners Ro McLaughlin and her sister Barb Lund, they'll tell you their lovely downtown Winnetka shop specializes in 19th century British antiques and art.

Birthdays—remember when they used to be a day we looked forward to?

My Best Friend's Closet, a new consignment shop in Highland Park, has thrown open the doors to closets around the North Shore and plucked out the most current, trendy pieces, including Chanel, Gucci, Prada, Manolo Blahniks and Frye boots.

If you’re like me, you want your children to look like a million bucks this summer without having to spend that much. Lucky for North Shore moms, we have a number of great stores that fit the bill (literally!).

Lucky for working frugal fashionistas everywhere, you can look great without spending a lot of your hard earned money. I worked with two local retailers who helped me pull together great work looks for less. See what you think.

Eve Alfillé won’t reveal her age. “My mother-in-law told me people tend to discount you when you’re of a certain age,” she says. But Alfillé’s eye-popping jewelry designs ensure that no one will be discounting her any time soon.

These plates make a beautiful gift, and, even better, your purchase will help the homeless.