Final Answer:
Gregor's father's appearance was different from what he remembered primarily in terms of his attire. He appeared tidier and more formally dressed, wearing a smart uniform, which was unusual compared to his usual shabby appearance.
Step-by-step explanation:
Gregor's father, in the past, was often portrayed as an old man with a worn-out appearance, usually dressed in a somewhat unkempt manner. However, upon Gregor's observation in the story, his father's transformation in attire was striking. The father was now presented in a smart, formal uniform, a deviation from his usual disheveled appearance. This change in clothing highlighted a noticeable departure from his customary attire, signifying a shift in his usual demeanor or social status within the family.
This alteration in his father's appearance symbolized a transformation in his role within the family dynamics. The change in attire could represent a newfound responsibility or a shift in the family's social or economic circumstances. This alteration in attire was significant not only in terms of physical appearance but also possibly emblematic of a shift in power dynamics or a change in the family's status quo due to Gregor's transformation. The father's change in appearance acted as a visual cue signaling shifts in character dynamics and family roles, intensifying the narrative's themes of transformation and estrangement within the story.