The Fabric Market

This weekend the boys school, Concordia International, is having a fund raising event that is being referred to as The "Gala" Event.  When I heard the name I knew this was going to cost me in more ways than one.  The first order of business for any gala event is to make sure one is properly attired. The school sponsored a "fashion event" for the women by a designer named Stella Lam.  There was "special" pricing offered which was about $500 over our budget for a dress that would be worn one time. This meant a visit to the fabric market in Puxi.  The market is located in a multi-story building and is filled with 2x3 meter stalls that specialize in custom tailoring of all types - from men's shirts, jackets and suits to women's evening gowns, handbags, and accessories.  Cynthia spent time looking at dresses on the internet and ended up bringing in a couple of photos and some articles of clothing that fit her and found a vendor who was able to design and make a beautiful dress for $75.  I decided to give the fabric market a try myself and brought in a shirt that I like and a pair of pants, chose the fabric that I wanted and had two pair of slacks and 2 dress shirts made all for $80.  The next order of business was to find shoes which is a major challenge in Shanghai since most Chinese women have feet the size of a 12 year old.  After LOTS of shopping we finally got a tip about a vendor in the fake market that carries a selection of "American size" shoes.  We were off!  After some searching in the maze of aisles we found the vendor and they had a great selection and Cynthia actually found two pairs of shoes that she loved and so we bought them both.  Next comes accessories - purse, jewelry, foundational support (which has nothing to do with earthquakes) etc.  Finally, I think we are ready for the event when Cynthia decides we need to have dance lessons.  Fortunately, we were able to find some YouTube instructional videos and have been practicing the fox trot in our living room.  To be continued...