Final answer:
In literature, clothing often symbolizes character traits, socioeconomic status, and cultural identity. A description of luxurious clothing, such as a white satin dress and gold jewelry, suggests affluence, while occupational attire reflects societal roles or requirements. Attire also varies with seasons and indicates social conventions and expectations.
Step-by-step explanation:
The speaker's clothing often has substantial symbolic significance in literature, revealing aspects of their character, status, or the setting. The woman described here is dressed in a white satin dress with a cashmere shawl, adorned with gold jewelry, and uses an expensive scented oil, huile antique, in her hair.
This indicates she possesses considerable wealth and status. Men's attire, such as a suit, may denote their profession or societal expectations related to their work. Dress can also suggest racial identity as in the case of Amy from the story, where her expensive gown at the dressmaker's shop brings into focus questions on how costume and appearance relate to race.
Additionally, clothing can reflect the season or weather; for example, lighter clothes in summer and heavier layers during winter, with variations depending on the geographic region. Appearance can be an indication of social class or education level, as well as other socioeconomic factors.