Have you ever test-driven a car you could never afford or strolled through the lobby of an out-of-your-league hotel? Then have I got the dress for you!

Since Aug. 15, this one-of-a-kind red gown by Tampa Bay designer Marisu Miranda has been on display a showroom at WestShore Plaza near Saks Fifth Avenue. The creation, a tribute to design legend Valentino Garavani, will be on display through the fall along with step-by-step documentation of how Miranda created the masterpiece. (That's her on your right, putting the finishing touches on the garment.)

Now for the price: $4,500, plus an additional $700 to $1,000 for alterations. Did I mention it has pockets?

I'll keep it real: This dress costs more than twice as much as my first car. But it is gorgeous, is it not? Inspired by Miranda's luscious-yet-too-pricey-for-me frock, I trolled the Web and found a few special-occasion crimson gowns with recession-friendly price tags:

Belted sheath dress, $79.50, The Limited

Wrap dress, $24.99, Target

Strapless taffeta dress with ruffle hem, $148.00, Cache

Jersey-knit braided neck dress, $54.00, Torrid

Silk halter dress, $148, Victoria's Secret

Banded knit dress, $14.99, Wet Seal

Even if you can't afford Miranda's gown, remember it's free to look. Shop with your eyes! Hers is a name you'll want to remember. A native of Barcelona, Spain, Miranda is a third-generation fashion designer. At her design studio, Marisu Miranda Moda at 1724 S Dale Mabry Hwy., she sews everything by hand. Check out more of her designs here.

Happy (window) shopping!