The Mirror of the Graces Containing General Instructions for Combining Elegance, Simplicity, and Economy with Fashion in Dress; Hints on Female Accomplishments and Manners; and Directions for the Preservation of Health and Beauty

"The Mirror of the Graces" by an active 19th century Lady of distinction, is a manual dedicated to guiding women in the art of achieving beauty, refinement, and proper conduct during the 1800's. It emphasizes fashion, skills, and well-being; the lady presents guidance on improving oneself, while keeping qualities of moral strength and humility. The beginning of the book shows the author's ideas on how important the body is as a medium for showing our thoughts, explaining that outer beauty should be a reflection of inner virtues. The author talks about finding the middle ground between forgetting one's looks and caring too much, pushing young women to grasp what society wants while keeping their grace.