Appearance and Dress

Dress is a major motif, representing identity, aspiration, and social status; the mother's detailed rules on clothing and their shared fantasies about elaborate gowns serve as a means of expressing their souls and escaping their poverty.

The chapter is entirely devoted to Mary's physical description and her mother's manipulation of her appearance to maintain an illusion of youth.

Mary's meticulous attention to her dress, hair, and necklace reflects her desire to present herself as grown-up and attractive.

Mary's distress over her short skirt and false hem underscores her preoccupation with how she is perceived.

Mary carefully alters her skirt and styles her hair to look her best for the meeting.