My roommate, Domi, gave me a few stores to go and check out. I went, and quickly became very discouraged. Besides everything being extremely overpriced, nothing fit. And can I just say that black and tan are not flattering colors on me. Are they on anyone? Plus they are so frumpy. I understand its work clothes but that doesn't mean all fashion sense has to be disregarded.
Making my way back up Avenida Paulista after leaving the last suggested department store, I passed a little shopping mall tucked under a big office building. Upon entering, I saw a lovely navy blue knee-length skirt with pretty buttons in a store's display window. Okay that is more like it. I walk in to the tiny shop to be greeted by two delightful Brazilian ladies. After telling them my dilemma about needing professional clothes, they immediately whipped into action. Within minutes, we were on a first name basis as they brought me through the racks of skirts, dresses, blazers, shirts, pants, etc. But the best part was yet to come. As I began trying stuff on, again things were not fitting as I had hoped. Not a problem! Little did I know, this was no ordinary clothing store but actually a seamstress! Everything in the shop was stitched and sewed right there! Not a "Made in China" tag in sight. So, when the clothes did not fit right, they could altered. This dramatically changed the whole shopping experience. I felt like Cinderella and these two Brazilian seamstresses, were my fairy godmothers. The only thing missing were little blue birds tying my hair up with silk ribbons as Marcela and Fernanda pinned and fixed each skirt, dress and shirt. And what a relief, not only were these women brilliant with their sewing abilities, their fashion sense was remarkable. The tiny shop was lined with bright pastels and flower patterns, royal blues and vibrant purples. Furthermore, the clothes actually complemented your figure. I am what you would call curvy, and yeah I don't want to go to work everyday looking like a washed up whale. Marcela and Fernanda did not want that either which is why they spent the whole next hour with me to ensure that every article fit just right. As I left the store with a bag in each hand, feeling pampered and important, I felt like I was saying goodbye to new life long friends. But it will not be goodbye for long. Marcela and Fernanda are going to call me in a few weeks when the new Fall fashions are in :)
Now I really can't imagine going back to Target where the clothes are a hit or miss and the dressing room ladies stare at you blankly when asked their opinion on how something fits. It is all very impersonal. And that is why I am truly beginning to love São Paulo. Here I am in one of the largest metropolises of the world, but even so, I am able to find such comfort and kindness amongst the nooks and crannies of the city's streets. Even though I still wish my Mom could have been here, my Brazilian fairy godmothers filled in just fine.
Here are some pictures of my purchases!
Outfit one. Please note flowered cuffs and neckline. Brilliance.
I really like these buttons because they remind me of seashells on Chappy
Outfit two: More flowered cuffs.
Outfit three. Yes, Mom, you can borrow it when I get home.
Some more shirts to be mixed and matched. They are a really nice light fabric!
And I am on my way to be dressed for success for my internship! Thanks for reading everyone. And a shout out to my wonderful Dad. Its his birthday today! I love you! Everyone send him an email if you get the chance. Hes turning 29!
No comments:
Post a Comment