The Hairdresser’s Apprentice

*The Hairdresser’s Apprentice* is a short story by Katherine Mansfield that explores themes of social class, aspiration, and personal identity. It follows a young girl working as an apprentice in a fancy hair salon, eager to impress her employer and emulate the stylish women she serves. Through her observations and interactions, the story highlights her desire for social mobility and the allure of sophistication. Mansfield uses detailed descriptions and subtle insights to reveal the contrast between the girl’s modest background and her fascination with glamour, ultimately illustrating her hopes and the often unfulfilled nature of those aspirations.