CHAPTER 4 – The Outer and the Inner Woman

In Chapter 4, “The Outer and the Inner Woman,” of “Worldly Ways and Byways,” the author examines the increasing prevalence of shoplifting among educated and seemingly refined women, attributing it to societal values that prioritize ostentation and external appearances over genuine quality and comfort due to rapid, immature prosperity. The author criticizes the societal obsession with luxury and the visible signs of wealth, pointing out that this leads to a preference for public display of wealth over solid comforts. This obsession is fueled by media and advertising, which incessantly focus on extravagant clothing and appearances, making fashion a central concern for women across various social classes, ultimately influencing their self-esteem and social actions.

The narrative highlights the disparity between the desire for expensive apparel and the financial realities of most families, leading to prioritizing appearances over more substantial values like enjoyment, social relationships, or even health. The author contrasts American women’s fixation on dress with the more practical approach of English women, suggesting a need for a shift in priorities.

The author laments the grotesque level of overdressing omnipresent across all social strata in America, from the wealthiest at resort hotels to the humble char-woman, pointing out the disconnect between their financial realities and their attire. This theme of dressing beyond one’s means is further exemplified through personal anecdotes, illustrating the societal pressure to maintain an appearance that is often financially unsustainable and prioritizes form over substance.

The chapter criticizes the societal expectation for women to dress in costly attire regardless of their financial situation, suggesting this obsession with appearances is not only a modern phenomenon but a recurring issue throughout history. It reflects on the futility of sumptuary laws in past eras aimed at curbing such extravagances. The author calls for a reconsideration of values, where personal worth and social position are not judged by external appearances but by genuine qualities and achievements.