Did I Shave My Legs for This?

Those of us who are in the dating game completely understand what it’s like when you meet someone new, and the flirtation and tension builds and builds. Perhaps the most exhausting part of it all is the anticipation that mounts every time you know you’re going to see that person. It’s most difficult for the ladies. We carefully pick out our best ensemble, make sure our hair looks like we just stepped out of the salon, and get our routine mani/pedi/bikini wax. We slip on our “sexies” under our clothes to feel a little more sensual, and we make sure our brows are plucked and our skin is soft.

Maybe this is just me.

We try to make certain that we look like we were at a photo shoot for People’s 50 Most Beautiful issue, or as close to it as humanly possible. We try to ensure that when we do see the person we’re into, that things will go according to plan (or at least in line with your expectations and hopes.) But in the end, it is a gamble. No matter how utterly flawless you may feel when you walk in the door and see them, they may not say or do exactly what you’d like them to. And sometimes? The disappointment from what they do (or don’t do) can make you feel like you put a whole lot of energy into all of this. You walk away feeling a little rejected and like the day was a total waste of makeup.

For the guys out there reading this, the only comparison I can give you that would maybe help you understand what I’m talking about would be blue balls, and cold showers.

Those of us who don’t have balls? We experience this frustration on a pretty routine basis, generally between the ages of 14 and 40. It’s called the world of dating. And it can be a real bitch.

But sometimes we experience this feeling when we get all pumped up over something new and exciting that we hope to experience or purchase, and then it disappoints us, or lets us down in some way. It isn’t what we thought it would be. Or, we aren’t treated quite the way we hoped we’d be treated.

I felt this way this past Friday when I was shopping a little late at Ann Taylor. I had been leafing through Elle and Vogue all afternoon, and saw all the pretty new ad campaigns for Ann Taylor. I saw the silky fabrics and professional looks, and was so excited to walk in and see what I could add to my Fall wardrobe, especially because Ann makes great clothing for professional women.

So what let me down?

The customer service, that’s what.

I’ve been to Scottsdale Ann Taylor so many times and had exceptional service. I’ve bought a few tops and skirts at Fashion Square, and also when I’ve been traveling, and had a good experience. Of course, Ann Taylor can be a little pricey, but they have awesome investment pieces, too, so it’s a trade-off that’s worth it.

At San Tan Village, I was totally ignored, looked at, up and down, but not acknowledged.

I shop like a madwoman. I spend money. I keep the economy going. I love fashion, and when I shop, I am always put together. Pay attention to me, or at least act like I exist. This is the cardinal rule of working in retail; customer service is crucial.

I guess I had hoped for so much more from my shopping experience, and, unfortunately, this store just didn’t deliver. But, just like this game we call dating, I’ll eventually throw myself back out there, and hope for the best, and hope that I’m not let down again.

Because just like shopping, at times, you may have your disappointments. But the euphoria of the experience? That’s what keeps all of us going back for more.

Good Vibes, & Bad Vibes...

I have to make this confession: I would much rather write about stores where EVERYBODY can find a great deal, where clothing is available at a reasonable price point, where you can treat yourself to a beautiful new outfit without feeling like you may not be able to make your mortgage payment. But once in a while, I have to dish about stores where clothing is a little more high-end and where the price tags may be hefty, but the merchandising, labels, and selection is to die for.

Vibe Boutique (there's a super cute location at San Tan Village--yes, I love that mall) is one such store. Although the jeans are quite pricey, you're going to find a selection that rivals a lot of other local boutiques, not to mention really gorgeous accessories, handbags, and adorable peasant tops, which are a great transition piece between summer and fall.

Probably my only complaint was that the customer service wasn't the best, and I've been in and bought items on a few occassions. I felt like the girls were a little arrogant and like they were doing ME a favor by ringing up my purchases.

If you can deal with stuck up girls in $300 jeans who don't want to help you, then I think it's a go, if anything, you'll score some cute fashion finds, and while you may charge a little more on the old Visa, you'll walk out with something great, like this adorable maxi dress at Vibe, also on their website: www.vibetheboutique.com.

If You Seek Amy

One of my favorite movies is Pretty Woman, and most people who know me well enough know this, because I watch it at least once or twice a month, and I’ve done this ever since I was a little girl. How could you not love Vivian, the leading character? I don’t know a single person who didn’t feel a little sympathy for her when she attempts to shop on Rodeo Drive, only to be ignored and even shunned by the sales girls in one of the ritzy boutiques she steps into.

I am all about first impressions, so when I go out shopping, I always select a cute ensemble to wear. My hair is always done, my makeup is impeccable and my jewelry is always on. I wear tasteful sunglasses as I go from boutique to boutique and carry a designer bag on my shoulder. My shoes always complete the look.

My girlfriends say I look like Mexican Barbie. :)

I could somehow rationalize being ignored or neglected if I stepped into a boutique dressed like Julia Roberts was in Pretty Woman, but I am not a prostitute, nor have I ever dressed like one. (And even in that scenario, it’s still rude to treat someone that way, regardless of their attire.) But when I walked into Amy, Inc. in Scottsdale last week, I couldn’t help but walk out feeling a little like Vivian as she walked down Rodeo Drive, completely crestfallen.

The boutique is located on Stetson Drive in Scottsdale, at the Mix Shops, along the Scottsdale Waterfront. It is rather small, but carries a cute selection of various labels, including one of my new favorites, Elizabeth and James. While I was there, I wanted to purchase a cute pair of Havaianas flip flops that were bedecked in studs, which gave them an edgy vibe. For all you Hills fans, Audrina was wearing these in last week’s issue of Life and Style Magazine. I ended up leaving the store without a shopping bag in hand because while I was in there, neither one of the sales girls acknowledged me, greeted me, and neither of them asked if I needed any help. They completely ignored me, as though I was a phantom shopper. In addition, one of the girls was on the phone making plans with someone for that evening. In this tough economy, I’m just as selective as the next girl about where I spend my money. And the bottom line is, I won’t spend my money somewhere where the customer service isn’t top notch, no matter how adorable the boutique is or who shops there.

Someday I plan to walk back into the boutique after having spent plenty of cash at Moody Blues or Estilo, where I’m always treated like shopping royalty, and just like Vivian did in the movie, I’ll pop in and say, “Remember me? From the other day? You wouldn’t wait on me? You work on commission, right? Big mistake. Big. HUGE.”

This pretty woman can boost the economy somewhere where she’s treated right. If you seek Amy, I hope you get the service and attention you deserve.