A Engomadeira (The Ironing Lady) drops you right into a bustling Lisbon dressmaker's workshop. It's all chatter, clattering irons, and the constant rustle of expensive fabric. The owner, D. Felizarda, runs a tight ship, but her business is built on a delicate balance of keeping her wealthy clients happy and managing the dreams (and dramas) of the young women who work for her.

The Story

The plot spins around a simple question: can a person from a humble background really move up in the world? We follow the lives of the women in the workshop—especially the clever, ambitious Emília—as they navigate gossip, romantic entanglements, and the rigid class rules of 1920s Lisbon. It's less about a single dramatic event and more about the daily pressures and small rebellions that define their lives. The 'vulgar' in the subtitle isn't about being crude; it's about the raw, unfiltered reality of their struggle.

Why You Should Read It

I loved how alive this book feels. Almada Negreiros writes dialogue that crackles with energy. You can almost hear the rapid-fire Portuguese gossip. What surprised me was how contemporary the characters' worries felt—wanting a better job, dealing with difficult bosses, figuring out love. It's a portrait of working women that feels honest and unsentimental, full of wit and a deep understanding of human nature.

Final Verdict

Perfect for readers who enjoy character-driven stories and a strong sense of place. If you liked the workplace dynamics in shows like The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel or novels that explore social climbing with a sharp eye, you'll find a lot to love here. It's a short, vibrant snapshot of a Lisbon that's often overlooked, told with humor and heart.