Mrs. 'Arris is a middle aged widow, a hardworking London charwoman who after seeing a Christian Dior designer dress in the closet of one of her employers, sets her hearts desire on acquiring a Dior dress of her own. After several years of scrimping and saving, she travels to Paris to realize her dream and during her trip, she learns much about other cultures, human nature and about herself. The UK edition of the book is entitled "Flowers For Mrs. Arris."