Summary

In Chapter 7, “Dressing to Match,” Pauline, Katherine, and Lucianne head out to a political meeting. In the subway station, Lucianne notices an advertisement for Miss Subway, a modeling competition. She remembers when she won the contest in 1959 and was “personally selected” by the modeling agent John Robert Powers (106). She was proud of herself, as it helped her get “both dates and a job” (107). She pities the women in this year’s contest, as Miss Subway will be selected by popular vote.

On the way, the women talk about the newest residents, Ruth and Gia. Pauline is displeased to hear about Ruth’s room assignment. Lucianne dismisses her remarks, never happy when Pauline gossips. She reflects on her relationships with the Biedermeier girls, wishing she had “stronger attachments” (109). She is horrified when Katherine reveals that Ruth reminds her of Kitty, as nobody likes Kitty...