::FASHION, WEAK::

In preparation for my birthday-celebration dinner, I went shopping yesterday for a nice cocktail dress. Austin's taking me out to dinner on Friday (the actual birthday, as of 6:02 AM). Woo hoo!

So I go to Northpark Mall Center, the closest, most convenient place to shop for non-Target or -discount clothing.

I'd like to officially register my dissatisfaction in the state of mass-market fashion. I'm sure couture is doing some great stuff right now, but any dresses under, say, $200? They don't suit me.

And aside from Banana Republic, which is cost-prohibitive, where the hell is a girl to shop if she's not into "boho"? All those broomstick-ish skirts! Meh. And those even-really-skinny-chicks-look-pregnant silky-beaded tunic tank tops? Gag. And asymmetric-cascade ruffly knit skirts?!? What the hell!

After my search, I found a ridge of swollen skin on my upper lip: I'd been biting it in frustration, walking briskly through the mallways, trying to find something before the place closed.

Eventually, I found success in the prom-dress department at Dillard's. Not boho at all, my dress is. I love it. It makes me feel like the sexiest cupcake ever.

Tonight I bought nail polish, shoes, and legwear. I just hope that on Friday my back seam is straight.