I have discussed before about how even as a slim person it is easy to feel like a towering monster of jello compared to the wafer thin asian population - Im generalizing massively here for dramatic effect but for the most part the Chinese have a much smaller build. And so...

I should really know better than to head to the local markets for size sensitive items such as shoes, skirts, shorts and trousers, sticking instead to the high street which understands some of the constraints of westerners and stocks bigger sizes. However today I felt like shopping, and I felt like buying something a little more unusual than what can become very boring high street shizzle. (I would make but i dont get enough time, and I would shop designer but im not yet a millionaire).

Spotted half way in to my expedition for a skirt in the ladies market I spotted a little navy pleated beauty with leather buckle details in the softest wool and the most extraordinary price.

Since the market clothing is generally wholesale stock they tend to come in 3 sizes, S, M & L. The large is of course teeny tiny by regular standards but about manageable (just) for me I think. So... to be sure (because you cannot try on, and no refunds given) I asked for a tape measure to size the waistband. Cue the crazy Chinese lady / skeletor in disguise who starts muttering under her breath. Then points at my waist, shakes her head and starts making 'fat' faces by puffing out her cheeks (!). It was most amusing, and perplexing since she she seemed to be trying her best to offend me out of a sale... which by my calculations (also considering the stretch percentage of the fabric) would have fit me, just about, maybe a little snug.

Anyway, unprepared to make a fuss, bcos its just not British is it, I moved along to the next store and found a suitable alternative. So mission completed, with the added bonus of an amusing story to share with you, my captive audience.

As much love as always, plus a little extra,
Tx