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The basic Female body comes with the following accessories: garter belt, panti-girdle, crinoline, camisole, bustle, brassiere, stomacher, chemise, virgin zone, spike heels, nose ring, veil, kid gloves, fishnet stockings, fichu, bandeau, Merry Widow, weepers, chokers, barrettes, bangles, beads, lorgnette, feather boa, basic black, compact, Lycra stretch one-piece with modesty panel, designer peignoir, flannel nightie, lace teddy, bed, head.

Margaret Atwood#80

GenderCultureBody imageFashion

About this quote

What does it mean?
The female body is described as equipped with many fashion accessories and garments, highlighting cultural expectations.
In plain terms
Women are surrounded by many clothing items and accessories.
What can you take from it?
Cultural norms impose extensive dress expectations on women.

Where it applies

  • shopping
  • media analysis

Putting it to work

  • question dress codes
  • promote body positivity

Questions to consider

  • How do these accessories affect women's self‑perception?
  • What alternatives exist to challenge these norms?

Another view

The list is satirical and may not reflect all women's experiences.

More from Margaret Atwood

  1. The answers you get from literature depend upon the questions you pose.

    Permalink to quote #79
  2. The beginning of Canadian cultural nationalism was not 'Am I really that oppressed?' but 'Am I really that boring?'.

    Permalink to quote #81
  3. Sons branch out, but one woman leads to another.

    Permalink to quote #78

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