A Very Lethal Combination

I discovered something extremely dangerous that I want to warn all of you about.

Shopping + Alcohol + Hot Italian Guy = A very expensive credit card bill and a make out sesh with a hot Italian

Two weeks ago, I had meandered Steinway Street in the hopes to find some cute and affordable dresses for work. I was doubtful after wandering through what seemed like thousands of really cheesy and trashy stores that housed clothes fit for a playmate. It was then I stumbled upon a tiny boutique where I was welcomed by Doria. Now, for those of you who know me VERY well, you will know why this was very appropriate. I now had a new reason to love Doria.... not only was it my favorite plate of food at Saizeria, but it was my new favorite wanna-be designer. And she had a boutique within walking distance to my apartment!!!

After being taken through the shop by her two gay assistants, I purchased two moderately-priced dresses that I adored!!! I was so excited to find my "diamond in the Astoria rough".... When I checked out, Doria invited me to her private sale the following weekend.

Sunday had arrived. I was exhausted from working the night before, but I managed to drag myself from my bed to get ready for the private, invitation-only sale at the boutique. It started at 1pm and I barely had time to grab a quick bowl of cereal before I left 31st Ave in Astoria. I walked down to the boutique in the intense humid heat of New York summer. In a blue terry cloth Juicy dress, I was completely drenched in sweat and cursed myself when I realized I had passed the store a block ago. I turned around and finally found the boutique. They had covered the windows with silk curtains. I found myself on the guest list and walked inside. There were a handful of ladies and girls wandering around. I was greeted by Doria and her gay entourage with a kiss on the cheek....Oh ya, and the Hot Italian Bartender....

I told myself, "No more than two glasses of wine, and do NOT spend the money you don't have!"

I was able to fend off the alcoholic refreshments for the first few minutes... (God, he's Hot) I wandered the boutique in search of more unique pieces and dressed for work. There were several jewelry designers there in addition to a camera crew for a local network. I found a few things to try on, and decided to purchase them. But first, I would have a glass of wine, and wander around for round two in case I missed anything.

Now, round two was accompanied by my wine. The two dresses that I had decided were too expensive from round one somehow found themselves in a dressing room with me. All the ladies were encouraging the purchase of these new items as they simultaneously proceeded to get drunk with me. The camera filming the reveal of the adorable dresses enhanced my liquid courage...I twirled for the camera, took a gulp of wine, and added them to my pile of things to purchase.

Somehow, I realized that my glass of wine was magically staying full. Hot Italian's Job was to keep us drinking, and he did his job well....

Round three consisted of a significant buzz and a look at the jewelry...not to mention Hot Italian picking out dresses for me to try on. Now, who can resist that??? I put on this gorgeous white, backless dress suitable for a date or a night out and everyone demanded it was made for me. The Hot Italian commented, "I hope you wear that dress when I take you out for dinner...."

**Gulp**..... of wine.....

Well, I think we all know how this story ended. Four hours later and after several drunk dials to friends in my excitement (you all know who you are), I walked out of the boutique with some great and unexpected purchases.... (ALL work related I can assure you.... with maybe the exception of that white dress!!!) I also was walked out by the HOT Italian where he proceeded to say goodbye to me the only way Hot Italians know how....and I am not talking "Ciao"!!!!

So the lesson learned? When in the company of wine, champagne, cute clothes one sale, and gorgeous men, prepare yourself.....with a credit card and some breath mints!!!! -M