So humiliating.

There you were, admiring an adorable sweater-clad brunette across the room. So chic! So stylish! So -- oh, no -- 12 years old.

Janet Pollach understands your painfully embarrassing envy. But instead of running to therapy, she opened Zelaz, a teen and tween fashion emporium that shares a name with her daughter Alex (just backwards and with a "z").

The part you care about? The kid-friendly prices on thoseclothes.

Okay, so you probably can't pull off the gear for the 7-12 set -- though the clothes will tempt you -- adorable skirts and sweaters.

You can, however, hit the juniors' lines. Jeans options include iT! and Anoname -- both in the $70ish range. There are also ruffled sweaters, plaid shirts, vests and scarves.

Bright pink and green walls add a totally teen bedroom touch. So grab your little sis (for cover) or your best pal (for support) and swing on by.

Like they say: If you can't beat 'em, join 'em.

Zelaz, Wayzata Bay Shopping Center, 927 East Lake Street, Wayzata, 952-920-1044. Open Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m..

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