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LIFESTYLE LETTER

More Than Style

September 2026 PUBLISHER

Style is often reduced to what we wear. But I've always believed it's something much deeper. It's how we choose to express ourselves, tell our stories and shape the spaces around us. It's found in a beautifully tailored jacket, certainly, but also in a thoughtfully designed home, a favorite vintage find, a handcrafted piece of jewelry or even the architecture that continues to inspire us generations later. This month's Style issue celebrates creativity in all of its forms. Our cover story introduces designer Nicole Pink, whose couture creations prove that fashion can become something deeply personal. Every garment begins with a conversation, then evolves into a one-of-a-kind piece that reflects the person wearing it. You'll also meet Melissa Carter, the force behind Kameo Vintage in Winnetka, where every rack holds the possibility of discovering something unexpected. Alongside that, our annual Shopping the Shore guide highlights some of our favorite local boutiques, reminding us that great style often starts right here in our own communities. Accessories tell stories, too. Jeweler Jude Abboud shares how heritage, craftsmanship and modern design come together in pieces meant to be worn for years, not seasons. Of course, style extends far beyond our closets. Highwood Design Week returns this September, opening the doors to remarkable homes and inviting us to experience the creativity behind the places where we live. And in Lit & Local, author Kristine Hansen's new book explores Frank Lloyd Wright's Illinois, reminding us that some of the state's most enduring works of design continue to shape the way we think about beauty, function and home. Whether you're refreshing your wardrobe, reimagining your living space or simply looking for inspiration, I hope this issue encourages you to see style not as something to follow, but as something to cultivate. After all, trends come and go. Personal style tells your story. See you around the North Shore,

Keely Barnum Conrey keely.conrey@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R

Cat Rolfes | cat.rolfes@citylifestyle.com P U B L I CAT I O N D I R E C TO R

Katie Bode | katie.bode@citylifestyle.com S O C I AL M E D I A C O O R D I N ATO R

Juliann Brown | juliann.brown@citylifestyle.com AC C O U N T M AN AG E R

Peter Heisinger | peter.heisinger@citylifestyle.com STAF F P H OTO G R AP H E R

Amee McCaughan | amee@ameemccaughan.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Juliann Brown, Dominique Bejarano, Cat Rolfes C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R S

Juliann Brown, Dominique Bejarano, Cat Rolfes, Thomas Tobin, Momo Justo

Corporate Team CEO Steven Schowengerdt President Matthew Perry CRO Jamie Pentz CoS Janeane Thompson AD DESIGNER Rachel Kolich LAYOUT DESIGNER Lillian Gibbs QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell

K E E LY B A R N U M C O N R E Y, P U B L I S H E R @NORTHSHORECITYLIFESTYLE Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 North Shore City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the North Shore area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle

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inside the issue SE PTE M B E R 2 02 6 | STYL E

12 Featured

20 28

Print Prestige Meets Digital Power.

WHY CHOOSE BETWEEN PRESTIGE AND PLACEMENT?

Departments

Made to Remember Nicole Pink transforms couture and heirlooms into wearable stories that honor the past while embracing the future.

Step Inside Melissa Carter's World

A Highland Park native built Kameo Vintage into a curated world of style and belonging.

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Business Monthly

Inspired By STYLE + BEAUTY

Fashion Forward STYLE + BEAUTY

Trend Setter SHOPPING

Local Limelight SHOPPING

Must See HOME + DESIGN

Events

Culinary Creations ARTS + CULTURE

Experience Highwood Through Great Design

Four evenings celebrate creativity, craftsmanship and community across the city.

On the Cover Designer Nicole Pink in her Libertyville studio, where every sketch, stitch and silhouette begins with a story. Hair and makeup by Nicole Firestone. Photography: Thomas Tobin

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1 - 2: Ravinia's newly reimagined Hunter Pavilion blends state-of-the-art performance capabilities with architectural details that honor the festival's historic character. 3: Jeffrey P. Haydon, Ravinia president and CEO, speaks during the press panel discussion. 4: From left: Sylvia Perez, moderator; Jeffrey P. Haydon; Marin Alsop, chief conductor; Michael Barnes, principal architect at Lohan; Jennifer Gunn, Chicago Symphony Orchestra musician; Daniela O’Leary‑Gill, board chair. 5: Visitors at the North Shore Art League’s 14th annual Art in the Village juried show at Hubbard Woods Park in Winnetka. 6: Exhibiting artists present oil paintings, mixed media, photography, sculpture and jewelry at the community art fair. 7: Linda Nelson, Cynthia Burr and Michael Van Zeyl

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theCoderSchool Glenview Opens on Waukegan Road theCoderSchool Glenview has opened at 1039 Waukegan Road, bringing Silicon Valley’s first nationwide kids coding program to the North Shore. The school teaches students to think logically, communicate ideas and solve problems creatively through project‑based instruction led by Code Coaches. Its curriculum blends programming fundamentals with real‑world tech exploration, encouraging kids to build apps, games and digital projects while developing long‑term computational thinking skills. thecoderschool.com/glenview Photography by Chamber staff

Hakata Ramen House Opens in The Glen Hakata Ramen House has opened at 1865 Tower Drive in The Glen, bringing traditional Hakata‑style ramen to Glenview. The restaurant’s tonkotsu broth is simmered for hours to achieve its signature richness, with a menu that includes classic tonkotsu, miso, shoyu and vegan options. Designed as a warm, casual neighborhood spot, Hakata Ramen House offers a comforting, authentic ramen experience rooted in technique and depth of flavor. hakataramenhouse.com

Photography by Chamber staff

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MADE TO REMEMBER NICOLE PINK TRANSFORMS COUTURE, HEIRLOOMS AND EVERYDAY GARMENTS INTO WEARABLE STORIES THAT HONOR THE PAST WHILE EMBRACING THE FUTURE. ARTICLE BY CAT ROLFES | PHOTOGRAPHY BY THOMAS TOBIN

Katherine Fleischhauer’s great‑aunt’s silk wedding gown, reimagined by Pink into a modern heirloom. (Photo by Melissa Stuckey)

I NSP IR E D BY | STYL E + B E AU T Y

Fashion is often celebrated for what’s new. Nicole Pink has built her career around what deserves to be remembered. A mother’s wedding gown carefully preserved for decades. A grandmother’s handmade lace. A favorite concert T-shirt too worn to wear but too meaningful to discard. Even a well-loved denim jacket that has quietly followed someone through years of everyday life. Where others see fabric, Pink sees history. Every stitch carries a story. Every seam holds emotion. And every garment presents an opportunity to preserve memories while creating something entirely new. That philosophy has become the hallmark of the Libertyville designer’s namesake studio. Best known for creating custom bridal gowns and couture occasion wear, Pink has earned a reputation for designing pieces that fit not only a client’s body, but also her personality and life story. Through heirloom redesigns and her Denim Ever After collection, she has expanded that vision even further, transforming sentimental garments into contemporary keepsakes that continue living long after their original purpose has ended. CONTINUED >

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Top Left: Sophia and Liam Gobeyn—her custom pink floral gown and his matching tie, created by Pink for a perfectly tailored moment. (Photo by John F Krivec) Top Right: Christine Witt channels pure vintage romance—capturing Pink’s vision of a bride who wanted old‑Hollywood glamour with a modern, effortless edge. Bottom Left: Katherine Fleischhauer in her renewed silk gown—timeless fabric, transformed with modern grace. (Photo by Melissa Stuckey)

“I knew I wanted to have my own business,” Pink says. The path there began at Colorado State University, where she studied fashion design and merchandising, followed by couture technique studies at the Paris American Academy. From there she moved to New York City, immersing herself in every facet of the fashion industry. She worked with established designers, learned everything she could about the business and intentionally sought out experiences that would prepare her to someday build a brand of her own. After six years in New York, she returned to the community where she grew up and opened her studio, bringing big-city craftsmanship back to the North Shore. That journey shaped more than her technical skills. It helped define her philosophy. Pink describes her aesthetic as “classic with a twist.” Clean lines meet unexpected details. Timeless silhouettes are paired with modern construction. Strength and femininity exist side CONTINUED >

I NSP IR E D BY | STYL E + B E AU T Y

S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/N ORT HS HO R E I L

Opposite: Top Left: Khadijah Kellogg’s gown by Pink featured timeless lines and exquisite detailing. (Photo by Alison Hein) Top Right: A sewn piece of her late mother’s wedding dress brings her presence into Kellogg’s gown. (Photo by Alison Hein) Bottom Left: New Trier High School music department chair Elizabeth Bennet wore a custom Pink gown to the Grammys as a Grammy Music Educator Award honoree. (Photo provided) Bottom Right: Monica Johnson wears a custom Nicole Pink gown with built-in support for effortless comfort and elegance. (Photo provided)

by side. Her annual collections often draw inspiration from the women around her, celebrating confidence, individuality and the many ways women express themselves through clothing. But if there is one idea that runs through every gown, jacket and redesign, it is this: clothing should never ask someone to become someone else. “I am sick of everyone trying to fit into a dress,” she says. “The dress needs to fit you. You don’t have to fit the dress.” For Pink, that extends well beyond measurements. Every custom project begins with conversation. Clients explore silhouettes from her original designs, discuss how they want to feel and review detailed sketches before she creates a prototype in inexpensive fabric. Multiple fittings allow the design to evolve before she ever cuts into irreplaceable heirloom materials. The careful, methodical process gives clients confidence while protecting the sentimental pieces they’ve entrusted to her. That trust is something Pink never takes lightly. Many clients arrive carrying more than a garment bag. They bring family history. One bride walked into the studio with her mother’s exuberant 1980s wedding dress, complete with dramatic sleeves, fringe and lace. While the silhouette no longer reflected the daughter’s style, the memories remained priceless. Pink carefully removed the original appliqués, transformed the gown into a sleek rehearsal dinner dress, created a coordinating jacket and fashioned earrings from the remaining fringe so the mother also carried part of her wedding day into a new celebration. Instead of one dress preserved in a closet, an entire family shared pieces of its story. Another client arrived with her late mother’s handmade gown. Examining the construction, Pink recognized traditional home-sewing techniques that revealed the dress had been lovingly sewn by family members decades earlier. Rather than dramatically redesign it, they chose preservation. Delicate lace from the gown became pocket-sized keepsakes embroidered with the grandmother’s own handwritten signature, allowing children and grandchildren to carry a tangible reminder of her every day. The idea for Denim Ever After began with Nicole’s friend Maddy Rudd, who was searching for a way to wear her wedding dress again. Her request sparked an idea: What if pieces of a treasured gown could move beyond the wedding day and take on an entirely new life? Rather than allowing cherished garments to remain tucked away in preservation boxes, Pink reimagines them as pieces meant to be worn again. Vintage denim jackets become canvases for wedding dress lace, embroidered handwriting, treasured scarves, favorite T-shirts, designer dust bags and meaningful

I NSP IR E D BY | STYL E + B E AU T Y

textiles collected throughout a family’s life. The result is never simply a jacket. It is a conversation piece layered with memory, craftsmanship and personal history. The concept also reflects her commitment to thoughtful design. The fashion industry generates enormous waste, Pink notes, making upcycling both a creative opportunity and a more sustainable approach. Yet environmental responsibility is only part of the appeal. What resonates most with clients is the chance to keep meaningful objects active in their lives instead of safely stored where they are rarely seen. A wedding dress becomes something worn on anniversaries instead of existing only in photographs. A beloved family scarf lives on as a jacket detail. Scraps from bridal alterations become heirlooms for future generations. The memories remain intact, but the garments continue evolving alongside the people who wear them. In an industry often driven by trends, Nicole Pink has chosen something more enduring. She designs beautiful clothing, certainly. But beneath every silhouette is a deeper purpose: preserving connection through craftsmanship. Whether creating a couture bridal gown, tailoring a mother-of-the-bride ensemble or giving a decades-old textile an unexpected second life, she reminds clients that the garments worth keeping are rarely the most expensive or the most fashionable. They are the ones that remember us. More at nicolepink.com.

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Step Inside Melissa Carter's World A Highland Park native built Kameo Vintage into a curated world of style and belonging. “Have fun. This is the best place to shop,” a woman says, welcoming me to Kameo Vintage’s curated world. Floral Y2K Roberto Cavalli jeans hang beside Chanel belts, vintage designer jackets tucked beneath plastic covers, deep-hued corsets lined with intricate beads, and a Zara blouse next to a Juicy Couture purse, straight out of the early 2000s. Every rack has pieces that seem to belong to different decades, cities and versions of the person who might wear them next. A place where teenagers can browse alongside longtime North Shore residents, while executives hunt for oneof-a-kind pieces before catching flights. A customer browses the racks while her son chats on the couch, still flushed from a long bike ride. She has the easy confidence of someone who knows vintage, and Melissa Carter meets her there, talking through the garments and offering styling ideas. The woman tells Carter that Kameo would be perfect in Austin. Carter laughs. Kameo Vintage isn’t supposed to feel like a typical North Shore boutique, and that’s the point. “I think the North Shore is in desperate need of something new and something innovative,” Carter says. “There’s a lot of women in the North Shore that feel they need permission to look different, and Kameo Vintage gives them that permission.”

ARTICLE BY DOMINIQUE BEJARANO PHOTOGRAPHY BY MOMO JUSTO

FASH ION F OR WA R D | STYLE + BE AU T Y

Carter knows the North Shore well. Raised in Highland Park, she started collecting vintage in fifth grade, when she would leave Northbrook Court to shop Belmont Avenue’s Hollywood Mirror. She eventually moved to New York, where she spent 18 years immersed in the city’s fashion and creative scene. When the pandemic brought her home, Carter returned to the community that shaped her long before she imagined opening a business there. Today, she lives a six-minute walk from Kameo. That history still fills the store. Carter jokes it feels like a high school reunion every day, and she isn’t exaggerating. The customer who has just left is someone whose family she has known since childhood, showing many who walk through the door are neighbors, old friends and familiar faces reconnecting. Carter’s influence extends beyond the racks. Her “bread and butter,” as she calls it, is closet curation and suitcase styling for busy women, including the CEO of Ulta Cosmetics. But her approach

Fashion editorial by Kameo Vintage. Model: Alex Willis. Creative direction & styling: Melissa Carter. Makeup: Tamyrn Thrope. Styling assistance: Bailey Eliason.

to fashion reflects the belief that brought her to vintage: great style does not have to be defined by a label. Carter appreciated luxury from an early age but discovered vintage offered the same craftsmanship and individuality at a fraction of the price. “I also think vintage should be approachable,” she says. That philosophy is reflected in a mix of price points designed to welcome every shopper, for any size, style or budget. Her summer residency at The Vault, founded by interior designer Elizabeth Mollen and collector Ellen Ozmun, brings Kameo’s curated vintage fashion into a space filled with thoughtfully collected furniture and interiors. Carter went to high school with Mollen, making the collaboration feel like another hometown reunion.

Fashion editorial by Kameo Vintage. Model: Alex Willis. Creative direction & styling: Melissa Carter. Makeup: Tamyrn Thrope. Styling assistance: Bailey Eliason.

She believes partnerships like this strengthen Highland Park’s growing creative community and help small businesses support one another. The residency continues through Sept. 30. Despite owning a boutique on the North Shore, Carter doesn’t buy with the neighborhood in mind. “I actually shop for my style,” she says, drawing inspiration from SoHo, Williamsburg, Paris and Montreal, then mixing streetwear, high fashion and unexpected layers into a collection that feels distinctly her own. “When anyone has a business, you’re creating your own world,” Carter says. “Then you’re inviting people into it.” Spend a few minutes inside Kameo Vintage, and you realize that’s exactly what she’s done. At 453 Roger Williams Ave. in Highland Park, Carter hasn’t simply opened a vintage store. She’s created a place where fashion feels less like following trends and more like discovering the next version of yourself. More at kameovintagestyle.com and @kameovintage. Fashion editorial by Kameo Vintage. Model: Alex Willis. Creative direction & styling: Melissa Carter. Makeup: Tamyrn Thrope. Styling assistance: Bailey Eliason.

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Shopping the Shore Fresh looks from North Shore's favorite boutiques ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY JULIANN BROWN The first cool mornings of September always change the way we get dressed. Linen gives way to knitwear, jackets move back to the front of the closet, and suddenly richer colors

ENAZ Highland Park, Lake Forest, Northfield

SPORTY LAYERS, FEMININE DETAIL

At ENAZ, fall begins with contrast. A navy-and-moss J. Society rugby henley brings a collegiate edge, while an olive Lucy Paris lace dress is reimagined as a soft layering piece beneath it. MOTHER’s Lil Lemon Twist Skimp jeans keep the outfit relaxed, and a black concho-style belt defines the silhouette. The burgundy BC fanny pack does more than complete the outfit; it introduces one of the season’s richest colors without weighing it down. It’s proof that dependable denim, layered texture and one standout accessory are often all it takes to refresh a familiar wardrobe.

Alchemy and Cloth Winnetka

GLOBAL FINDS, PERSONAL STYLE

Alchemy and Cloth is for the shopper who prefers the unexpected. With collections sourced from Paris, New York, Italy and beyond, the boutique offers an artistic perspective that feels collected rather than trend driven. Here, a Suzi Roher graphic T-shirt is layered beneath an indigo-faded Rundholz jacket and paired with PLU’s cropped Perfect Pant. A black Maria La Rosa crochet bucket bag embellished with crystal stones adds texture and quiet sparkle. The foundation is familiar: graphic tee, tailored trousers and ankle boots. The sculptural jacket, scarf and handcrafted bag change the entire conversation, proving that one unexpected layer or globally sourced accessory can make everyday wardrobe staples feel distinctly personal.

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feel right again. Fall style is rarely about one dramatic purchase. It’s the season of layering, adding texture, deeper color and a few thoughtful additions that make everything already hanging in the closet feel new again. Across Highland Park, Winnetka, Lake Forest and Glenview, local boutiques are translating the season’s strongest trends into looks that feel polished, wearable

and personal. Rugby stripes, wide-leg denim, burgundy, olive, lace, structured jackets and statement accessories all have their place this season, but the best outfits balance fresh ideas with everyday versatility. These are clothes designed for real North Shore wardrobes, carrying women from client meetings to dinners out, weekend errands and everything in between.

Lillie Alexander Lake Forest

REFINED COLOR, LASTING STYLE

Lillie Alexander embraces fall through rich color, polished tailoring and timeless investment dressing. A burgundy Prince Tee and coordinating Prince Skirt from The Garment create a streamlined base, while L’Agence’s Chamberlain Blazer in Golden Spice adds warmth and structure. Mauve suede heels and an embroidered Isabel Marant Rome clutch soften the tailored silhouette. The blazer pairs just as easily with denim, while the skirt transitions effortlessly with a simple knit, extending the life of each piece well beyond a single occasion. It’s a thoughtful reminder that the best wardrobe investments are the ones you’ll reach for again and again.

Margo Boutique Glenview

SOFT STRUCTURE, QUIET POLISH

Margo Boutique offers a softer interpretation of fall. A taupe knit top and coordinating skirt create an elegant column of color, while a cropped En Saison jacket with a dark contrast collar introduces shape and definition. Texture quietly carries the look. A woven brown handbag with a beaded handle, pointed heels and layered gold jewelry add just enough contrast to keep the monochromatic palette feeling rich rather than restrained. Knitwear, woven leather, polished hardware and delicate jewelry work together to create depth without sacrificing simplicity. The result is quietly polished and especially practical for early fall, when lightweight layers need to move easily through changing temperatures. CONTINUED > S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/N ORT HS HO R E I L

Styles & Smiles Winnetka

EASY COLOR, EVERYDAY STYLE

Styles & Smiles captures the cheerful side of fall dressing. Central Park West’s Marlon textured cardigan and matching tank create a Missoni-inspired effect, while 1822 Denim’s Fit & Lift flare jeans keep the look grounded and easy to wear. An Annie Diamantidis leather handbag adds structure, while layered pearl and beaded jewelry bring personality. Worn together, the coordinating knits make an immediate statement. Separately, they become versatile wardrobe staples, pairing effortlessly with dresses, denim, skirts or tailored trousers. It’s an easy formula for women who want color and texture without overthinking the morning routine.

A THOUGHTFUL SHIFT

The clearest takeaway across these boutiques is that great fall style rarely comes from replacing an entire wardrobe. More often, it comes from seeing familiar favorites differently: adding one exceptional jacket, a richer color, an unexpected texture or a handbag that transforms the look. Rugby stripes lend a sporty edge. Burgundy and olive anchor the season’s palette. Lace is layered rather than precious, wide-leg denim remains a defining silhouette, and thoughtfully chosen accessories do far more than finish an outfit—they give it new life. The North Shore’s boutiques prove that the smartest way to refresh your wardrobe isn’t necessarily to buy more. It’s to choose well, layer creatively and discover pieces that you’ll continue reaching for long after the leaves have fallen.

T R E N D SE T T E R | SHO P P IN G

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String renditions String renditions of of Billie Billie Eilish, Eilish, BTS, BTS, and Taylor and Taylor Swift. Swift.

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Lynn Zakeri, LCSW

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Carnelian (left) awakens creative flow while Pink Jade (right) nurtures the heart—energy in perfect harmony.

A tribute to Middle Eastern artistry, the Pomegranate & Hand Necklace pairs two ancient symbols—fertility and protection— into a timeless emblem of abundance.

Chicago designer Jude Abboud creates jewelry inspired by heritage, intention and effortless style.

WEARING YOUR INNER SPARK ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY CAT ROLFES

When Jude Abboud designs a new piece of jewelry, she rarely begins with a sketch. Instead, she starts with a feeling. The 28-year-old Oak Brook designer has built her emerging collection around a simple idea: jewelry should do more than complete an outfit. It should remind the person wearing it who they are. Drawing from spirituality, Middle Eastern tradition and a modern “clean girl” aesthetic, Abboud creates handcrafted pieces meant to inspire confidence, self-love and abundance. “I’ve always had a passion for fashion, jewelry and spirituality,” she says. “I wanted to mix both parts of my brain—the creative side and the spiritual side.” Some collections feature semiprecious stones such as carnelian, associated with feminine energy, or jade, linked to luck and prosperity. Others focus purely on timeless design, allowing customers to embrace the aesthetic whether or not they connect with crystal symbolism. Her Middle Eastern heritage quietly shapes much of her work. Gold coin pendants echo traditional liras, honoring generations of women who carried family wealth through jewelry that could be passed down, treasured and, when necessary, relied upon.

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | S HOPPIN G

Those historical references give even her minimalist designs a sense of permanence. Every piece is assembled by hand, a process Abboud describes as deeply meditative. She gathers chains, charms and findings, then allows each design to emerge naturally. “Making things with your hands is a lost art,” she says. “Everyone is so digital. When I’m creating, I get into a flow state.” Her aesthetic continues to evolve. Alongside her signature warm gold pieces, she’s experimenting with softer interpretations of silver while remaining committed to quality over quantity. Rather than rushing to expand, she’d rather perfect a handful of signature designs. That thoughtful approach extends beyond the jewelry itself. Each evening, Abboud spends a few quiet minutes ref lecting on her day. “You can only change what you’re aware of,” she says. Perhaps that’s why her jewelry resonates beyond fashion. Every necklace, bracelet and charm is designed to be more than an accessory. It’s a quiet reminder to move through the world with intention—and maybe a little more aura. More at judeabboud.com.

Bucket-list adventures like this fill fast. Call or visit our Glenview office today to reserve your polar expedition.

Zodiac Wildlife Excursions Small-boat landings put you face to face with penguins, seals, and whales in their untouched natural habitat.

Expedia Cruises - North Shore, your trusted local navigator for Quark Expeditions polar voyages and spectacular vacations.

Glide past towering icebergs by Zodiac, watch penguins from the shoreline, then return to a ship built for comfort. Quark Expeditions delivers polar adventure at its finest, and Expedia Cruises North Shore turns that dream into a seamless reality, matching you to the perfect voyage with advice you can trust and exclusive Expedia Extras along the way.

expediacruises.com/NorthShore (847) 595-1444 1434 Waukegan Rd Glenview, IL 60025

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meet somewhere beautiful make your day better at dayhouse coworking Conference rooms in the Chicago suburbs, designed for focused work, polished presentations, and gatherings that feel anything but ordinary. dayhousecoworking.com (847) 579-9378 | Vdayhousecoworking

Downtown Highland Park | Old Town Schaumburg

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EXPERIENCE Highwood Through THE LENS OF Great Design Four evenings celebrate creativity, craftsmanship and community across the city. ARTICLE BY CAT ROLFES | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

For four evenings this September, Highwood will transform into one of the North Shore’s most inspiring destinations, where beautifully designed spaces become gathering places and creativity extends far beyond architecture and interiors. Returning Sept. 15-18, Highwood Design Week invites homeowners, architects, designers, builders, real estate professionals and anyone who appreciates thoughtful craftsmanship to explore how good design influences the way we live, work and connect. More than a showcase of beautiful spaces, the event highlights the collaboration behind great design. Interior designers, artisans, technology experts, restaurateurs and retailers all contribute to environments that are not only visually compelling, but also comfortable, functional and distinctly personal. It’s an opportunity to discover the businesses helping shape homes and gathering places throughout the North Shore. Unlike a traditional trade show, the event unfolds throughout the city. Guests move from one distinctive venue to another, discovering thoughtfully designed interiors, innovative home technology, exceptional craftsmanship and memorable hospitality along the way. The format encourages conversation as much as discovery, allowing visitors to meet the entrepreneurs and designers helping shape Highwood’s growing reputation for creativity and craftsmanship. Whether planning a renovation, building a custom home, refreshing a favorite room or simply looking for inspiration, attendees will find that each evening offers a different perspective on the many ways design touches everyday life. Tuesday begins with an invitation-only Opening Night Preview Party at Old Plank Antiques’ new Highwood showroom. Guests

M UST SE E | HO M E + DESIGN

will be among the first to explore the internationally known dealer’s carefully curated collection of European antiques, architectural elements and vintage furnishings while celebrating the grand opening of its newest location. The evening also includes an exclusive preview of avec, the acclaimed Chicago restaurant opening in Highwood this fall. Complimentary small bites reinforce the week’s message that exceptional design extends beyond architecture to hospitality, food and the experiences that bring people together. On Wednesday, award-winning ABLAZE Design Group hosts Living in a Better Light, demonstrating how today’s lighting technology can transform both the appearance and function of a home. In partnership with Lutron and Davis Audio & Video, guests will experience dynamic lighting, automated shades and integrated smart-home systems that illustrate how light influences everything from mood and productivity to sleep and overall wellness. The evening concludes with cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and an opportunity to meet the designers behind many of the North Shore’s most recognized custom homes. Thursday turns the focus from sight to the senses during Whiskey, Vinyl & Textures at Carpets of Highwood. Pairing luxury flooring materials with whiskey tastings and music played on vinyl, the evening explores how texture, sound and atmosphere contribute to exceptional interiors. Guests will gain a fresh appreciation for the craftsmanship and details that transform functional spaces into places people truly enjoy living. Friday concludes at The Merchant with Designed to Pair, an evening celebrating the relationship between culinary artistry and design. Guests will enjoy guided wine and food pairings while discovering how chefs, sommeliers and designers all rely on balance, texture, proportion and creativity to craft memorable experiences. Together, the four evenings tell a larger story about the creativity, entrepreneurship and collaborative spirit that define Highwood. They also offer a reminder that thoughtful design isn’t reserved for luxury homes or showrooms. It influences the restaurants we linger in, the lighting that welcomes us home, the materials beneath our feet and the spaces where everyday moments become memorable. Guests are welcome to attend one event or experience the entire week. Advance registration is required for every event. Wednesday and Thursday programs are complimentary with registration, Friday’s finale is ticketed, and Tuesday’s opening celebration is available by invitation request.

Guests on the red carpet at last year’s Highwood Design Week—stylish, bright, and ready to celebrate great design. (Photo by Caleb Viti)

Know Before You Go Highwood Design Week Sept. 15-18, 2026

Tuesday: Opening Night Preview Party at Old Plank Antiques (invitation requested) Wednesday: Living in a Better Light at ABLAZE Design Group. Explore cutting-edge lighting, smart-home technology and wellness-focused design. Thursday: Whiskey, Vinyl & Textures at Carpets of Highwood. Experience luxury flooring, whiskey tastings and analog music in an evening celebrating design through the senses. Friday: Designed to Pair at The Merchant. Guided wine and food pairings conclude the week with a celebration of culinary creativity. Advance registration is required for every event. Learn more and register at highwoodchamber.com/ design-week.

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SETTING THE BAR SINCE 1936 Schaefer's Wines, Foods & Spirits, a North Shore landmark, delivers to your home or business for your everyday beverage needs and special events. Our deli includes signature dips, spreads & soups as well as gourmet food delights.

Expert Party Planning | Free Loaner Event Glassware Free Delivery & Pickup With Credited Returns | 24x7 Web Ordering at Schaefers.com

Now Celebrating 90 Years! schaefers.com | 847-677-9463 | VBschaeferswines 9965 Gross Point Road, Skokie, Illinois

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Through specific chiropractic care, we help restore balance to the nervous system so the body can heal, move, and thrive—naturally. True wellness begins with a connected, fully functioning body. Our mission is to empower families and their pets to live healthier, more vibrant lives. For better Health, schedule your appointment today!

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THE SUITE LIFE. ELEVATED. Discover The Retreat®, Celebrity Cruises’ most elevated experience at sea—where every detail is designed for ultimate relaxation and exclusivity. From a dedicated butler and private sundeck to Luminae, an exclusive suites-only restaurant, enjoy a luxury escape that feels like your own private resort at sea. For itineraries and pricing, contact Travel 100 Group today!

Call: 847. 256. 7570 Email: info@t100g.com or Visit: www.t100g.com

WHATEVER IS DIFFICULT. TALKING MAKES IT BETTER. Life changes can leave you feeling anxious, uncertain, or disconnected from the person you once were. Whether you're navigating divorce, grief, changing family roles, or adjusting to a new stage of life, therapy can help you find clarity and regain your sense of direction. I work with adults who are ready to understand what's happening beneath the surface. You don't have to do it alone.

My office is located in Winnetka. Please call me for a brief consult and to discuss insurance options. suzyhalpin@gmail.com | (847) 987-4470

SUPPORT FOR CHANGE. GROWTH FOR LIFE.

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SEPTEMBER 2026

events A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LO C A L E V E N T S THR OUGH NOVEMBER 1ST

Sunday in the Park with George — Kokandy Productions Chopin Theatre, Downstairs Studio, 1543 W. Division St., Chicago | Times Vary Kokandy Productions revives Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine’s Sunday in the Park with George in the Chopin Downstairs Studio, directed and choreographed by Producing Artistic Director Derek Van Barham with music direction by Nick Sula. Kevin Webb stars as George and Missy Wise Vanderzee as Dot/Marie, leading a full ensemble in the first Chicago storefront staging in more than 15 years. kokandyproductions.com SEPTEMBER 4 TH - 5TH

Biohackers World Conference & Expo — Chicago 2026 The Ritz‑Carlton Chicago, 160 E. Pearson St., Chicago | Times Vary Biohackers World returns to Chicago for a two‑day conference and expo exploring the future of health, longevity, and human performance. The weekend features keynote talks, hands‑on demos, wellness technologies, guided experiences, and networking with leaders in biohacking, science, and innovation. A hub for anyone interested in optimizing well‑being and exploring cutting‑edge tools. biohackers.world SEPTEMBER 4 TH – 6TH

Nashwood — Highwood’s Honky Tonk Music & Food Fest Downtown Highwood, IL | Times Vary Celebrate Highwood’s fan‑favorite Nashwood transforms Downtown Highwood into Nashville’s Honky Tonk Row for its ninth year, filling the streets

EVE N TS

with FREE live country, bluegrass, blues, classic and contemporary rock, plus Southern‑inspired food and drink specials. Musicians from across the country perform indoors and outdoors all weekend, with no cover charges and tips encouraged in true Nashville style. celebratehighwood.org/nashwood S E P T E M BE R 1 7 T H

Topdog/Underdog — Steppenwolf 51st Season Opening Steppenwolf’s Downstairs Theater, 1650 N. Halsted St., Chicago | Times Vary Steppenwolf opens its 51st Season with Suzan‑Lori Parks’ Pulitzer Prize‑winning Topdog/Underdog, directed by Tony Award winner Kenny Leon. Ensemble members Glenn Davis and Namir Smallwood star in this highly anticipated revival, returning more than two decades after Steppenwolf’s celebrated 2003 production. Performances begin September 17. steppenwolf.org S E P T E M BE R 2 5T H

Tee Up for FSG — 9th Annual Golf Scramble Glencoe Golf Club, 621 Westley Rd., Glencoe | 11:30am

EXPERIENCE GOLF LIKE NEVER BEFORE - 7 state-of-the-art Trackman simulators featuring over 100 championship courses - Indoor putting green for practice sessions - Full-service bar & kitchen serving gourmet flatbreads, craft beers, and cocktails - Perfect for groups, lessons, club fittings, or casual play

BOOK YOUR TEE TIME

Visit TheShackGolfClub.com or call 847-904-2905 to reserve your spot today! 1717 Chestnut Ave, Glenview, IL 60025

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Family Service of Glencoe’s signature golf scramble returns to Glencoe Golf Club, offering a day on the course in support of vital social and mental health services. The event provides an opportunity to connect with the community, highlight local businesses, and champion FSG’s mission to help individuals and families thrive across Glencoe and surrounding areas.

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Illinois Through Wright’s Vision ARTICLE BY CAT ROLFES

LI T & LOC A L

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Illinois Through Wright’s Vision Frank Lloyd Wright once wrote, “We create our buildings and then they create us.” More than perhaps any other state, Illinois tells that story. In Frank Lloyd Wright’s Illinois: Explore His Most Prolific State, From Prairie to Usonian, author Kristine Hansen invites readers to experience the state through the work of America’s most influential architect. Rather than simply cataloging buildings, she traces the evolution of Wright’s ideas across decades, revealing how Illinois became the proving ground for designs that forever changed residential architecture. The book profiles dozens of Wright sites throughout the state, organized by community, from Belvidere to Wilmette. Chicago and Oak Park naturally take center stage, but Hansen also shines a light on destinations many readers may have overlooked, including Highland Park, Glencoe, Libertyville, Kankakee, Rockford and Springfield. Each chapter blends architectural history with

Indie and local books that are bound to inspire

C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | ARTS + CU LT U RE

stories of the families who commissioned the buildings, the preservationists who saved them and practical information for visitors hoping to experience them firsthand. North Shore readers will find familiar landmarks alongside surprising discoveries. Wright’s Ward Willits House and Mary M.W. Adams House in Highland Park, the Sherman Booth House in Glencoe, the Charles F. Glore Jr. House in Lake Forest, the Lewis E. Burleigh House in Wilmette and the Kathryn and Lloyd Lewis House in Libertyville all receive thoughtful attention, placing local architecture within the broader story of Wright’s remarkable career. Hansen’s journalism background shows in her approachable writing. Rather than overwhelming readers with technical language, she explains concepts such as Prairie style, Usonian design, organic architecture, cantilevered roofs and Wright’s signature “compression and release” in clear, engaging terms. A timeline of Wright’s Illinois career and a glossary of architectural vocabulary further enrich the experience, making the book equally rewarding for longtime enthusiasts and newcomers alike. Perhaps the book’s greatest accomplishment is its appreciation for preservation. Hansen reminds readers that these homes survive only through the dedication of stewards, volunteers and organizations committed to protecting Wright’s legacy. By the final page, readers aren’t simply inspired to admire the architecture. They’re encouraged to visit it, support it and help ensure these remarkable buildings endure for generations to come. Author Kristine Hansen will discuss Frank Lloyd Wright’s Illinois and sign copies of the book Sept. 24 at Bookends & Beginnings in Evanston and Sept. 30 at Lake Forest Book Store in Lake Forest. Know a local author? Email cat.rolfes@citylifestyle.com.

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At DDK Kitchen Design Group, we go beyond kitchens—our expert designers and remodelers transform entire homes with sophisticated, high-end craftsmanship. From stunning kitchen renovations to full-home remodels, we create spaces that reflect your lifestyle and elevate your home’s value.

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1700 GLENVIEW RD. GLENVIEW, IL | 847-998-1552

400 RIDGE ROAD, WILMETTE, IL | 847-728-0823

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1843 Glenview Road, Glenview, IL 60025|

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