Because I am in a classical mood lately, I select a traditional red-on-white polka dot dress with shoestring straps and a built-in padded bra and waist cinched tightly with a big red elastic belt. The frock’s name is Gina — after Gina Lollobrigida, naturally — and she’s so tight little wrinkles of fabric form on my hips when I walk. But she’s got a great sense of humor, a wonderful Italian outlook on life. When you walk in Gina — in six-inch red high heels, of course — you get this urge to hum “Volare” and swing your handbag like mad. I love her so much.

from Fabulous Nobodies, by Lee Tulloch. If you haven’t read Fabulous Nobodies, you really, really should.