Before Winnie could get more gossip, a waiter entered carrying a pile of large boxes. Dust bags, paper bags, and shoe boxes bearing various logos filled the living room to the point where there was barely any space to move. Silk, satin, tulle, sequined, and beaded gowns of all styles were spread across the couch. A few sales assistants were busily using portable steamers to smooth out the wrinkles from transport before hanging the dresses on rolling racks.

Winnie stood there, stunned ...