I noticed the new shop during a regular spot of Saturday morning retail therapy with my best friend, Shara.
The retro boutique boasted a colourful window display of vintage clothes, and one garment in particular caught my eye a stunning, emeraldgreen evening gown.
I was already imagining myself wearing it at the upcoming works do, sweeping across the dance floor, silky folds of fabric caressing my figure as everyone looked admiringly. Especially Mike.
'OMG, that dress is gorgeous!' shrieked Shara, grabbing my arm and pulling me into the shop.
I tried to ignore the swell of frustration I felt as I waited outside the changing room while she tried it on. Glancing across at the only other customer, a glamorous young flame-haired woman browsing the racks, I secretly hoped 'my' perfect dress wouldn't fit Shara.
Only, when the curtain swished back, I had to admit she looked amazing.
'What do you think, Mo?' she grinned, giving a twirl, her hazel eyes shining with joy. I hadn't seen her this happy since her break-up with Greg.
'Well?' she repeated.
'It looks nice,' I replied.
'Just nice?'
'Very nice.' Her face fell. 'It doesn't suit me, does it?' I hesitated, thinking how much I wanted the dress for myself, convinced I needed it to get Mike to notice me.
Denne historien er fra June 13, 2023-utgaven av Woman's Weekly.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
Allerede abonnent ? Logg på
Denne historien er fra June 13, 2023-utgaven av Woman's Weekly.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
Allerede abonnent? Logg på
10 OF THE BEST Buys for CHARITY
Look great and support Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October
How to HAGGLE
Save those £££s by plucking up the courage to negotiate
Your wellbeing
LATEST HEALTH SOLUTIONS FOR YOUR MIND AND BODY
Here to help
LET COUNSELLOR KEREN LIGHTEN YOUR LOAD
Good to GLOW
Plant your bulbs now for a lovely bright start to spring
Painted VASES
Prettify empty jars and bottles with this quick craft project
Escape to OXFORD
Delve into the city's rich cultural heritage for a wonderful weekend
Sail through menopause WITHOUT WEIGHT GAIN!
Middle-aged spread may seem inevitable - but it really doesn't have to be
Woodland wonders
When you go down to the woods, you'll find a whole new world teeming with life
'We should all be dancing'
Singer and actor Toyah Willcox on overcoming adversity, ageing and Strictly Come Dancing