Harriet Smith is deemed to be beautiful by all! Perhaps I was being influenced by the film versions of Emma, where Harriet Smith was played by actresses who IMO were either rather plain or played Harriet for laughs ( in the latter instance I'm thinking in particular of Toni Collette). The book Harriet doesn't require a complete makeover as she is quite sufficient in the looks department. What Harriet does need is assistance in developing her self-confidence, which could have been in need of repair due to her illegitimate birth,and her mind. In a way, being beautiful in an age where money and birth were deemed of utmost importance in catching a husband would be almost a cruelty -- a beautiful and rich Emma Woodhouse would have her pick of men, while a a beautiful but poor Harriet Smith would have few prospects. Emma the MatchMaker to the rescue.