Shopper Is a Bit Too Casual

Denise J. of El Toro, Calif., had to do some last-minute shopping for a party she was hosting in the evening and left the house in the afternoon wearing soiled, grungy sweats. She wore no makeup, her hair was greasy and dirt smears covered her face because she had been working in the garden all day. She spotted a new store, rushed in and hastily began gathering items. Suddenly, she felt a tap on her shoulder. It was the store manager, informing her that the store had not officially opened. Many people were there, but they weren't shopping. They were attending the grand opening reception -- a black-tie affair. And they were all looking at Denise.