I’ve been in, such, a reminiscing mood lately. My memories of Italy make it hard to go a day without talking about it to some degree. I started thinking about when I lived in my apartment in Florence. It was so hot outside, that, no matter what I put on I wouldn’t get much relief. This particular day, I opted for a red button-up cotton dress. It was form-fitting and, when cinched with a belt, created the perfect hourglass silhouette. The dress really flattered my curves because it graced them lightly—it wasn’t too tight; but it was tight enough to show my figure.

Red. The color of passion. I knew I might regret wearing it as I strolled along the streets at dusk; but it made my life more interesting. I wore my vintage Fendi purse across my chest, my iPod played in my ears and I walked along to the beat.

I ended up walking towards the row of high fashion shops: Ralph Lauren, Gucci, Prada, Vespucci, Armani, and even Rolex. Gucci had the best location, with a position right on the Arno River. I stopped, and stared at the Gucci display window for the length of one song. That’s when I noticed a face, smiling at me, in the reflection of the display window.
I turned to see a well-dressed, handsome, man. I laughed, a little, because this was getting ridiculous. Obviously, I’m not the most beautiful woman in the world, and I know that red dress made me look good—but, seriously! I just wanted one hour without being followed! I turned to leave. Sure enough, he followed. I turned around, smiled politely and said plainly, “Ho un ragazzo, ciao!”

(Ladies, if you visit Italy, this is a good line to know; regardless of it’s true. It means, “I have a boyfriend,” and it is pronounced like: “Oh oon ruh –gat- so” … that’s the best I can explain it!)

Then he said, “Beh! Ma sei troppo bella in tuo vestito rosso!” (But, you are too beautiful in your red dress!)

Oh fashion; your magnetism is remarkable. Its memories like these that make me value fashion. Just the thought of fashion makes me feel beautiful. Why do you value fashion?

Tonight, I’m going to a goodbye dinner for my older sister. She’s off to travel through Asia (she’s fluent in Chinese!): Thailand, Singapore, China, Taiwan and Malaysia. We’re hitting up a hot restaurant in Hollywood, so I’ve got to get fancy. I have this great Tbags, one-shoulder, Grecian dress that makes me remember all the wonderful feelings Italy gives me.

P.S. Who decided to name their fashion line Tbags? I don’t like the name.