Intimate Apparel is a play by Lynn Nottage that tells the story of Esther, a black seamstress living in New York City in the early 1900s. Despite facing many challenges as a woman of color in a time of racial and gender inequality, Esther is a talented and successful seamstress who creates beautiful lingerie for wealthy white women.
At the beginning of the play, we see Esther working in her sewing room, where she is visited by her long-time friend, Mayme, a prostitute. Mayme introduces Esther to George, a letter-writer who works at the post office and has been corresponding with Esther. Despite the fact that they have never met in person, Esther and George have developed a strong emotional connection through their letters and decide to marry.
However, their relationship is complicated by the fact that George is still married to his first wife, who he has not seen in years and believes to be dead. When his wife suddenly reappears, George must choose between Esther and his obligations to his first marriage.
Meanwhile, Esther also struggles with the attentions of Mr. Marks, a wealthy clothier who wants to take her on as his mistress. Esther must navigate these difficult choices and decide what is best for her own happiness and independence.
Throughout the play, we see Esther grappling with the limitations placed on her as a black woman in a racist and sexist society. Despite facing numerous obstacles, she remains strong and determined, and ultimately makes a decision that allows her to pursue her own happiness and independence.
Intimate Apparel is a powerful and moving exploration of love, identity, and the struggles of marginalized communities. It is a poignant reminder of the resilience and strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity. Overall, the play is a beautifully crafted and thought-provoking examination of the complexities of human relationships and the societal forces that shape them.