>not in hte absolute "front lines" of fashion but not behind the times either....

On the contrary, pockets by then, had gone out of fashion;

CH:40
...about the courtplaister.

"And I had plenty all the while in my pocket!"

I also feel that she wouldn't unnecessarily be spending on material from London and have it stitched in Highbury.
She's quite economical.

"But, Harriet, is it necessary to burn the court plaister? I have not a word to say for the bit of old pencil, but the court plaister might be useful."

I can't see why she can't look elegant in simple old fashioned clothes with material bought at Ford's and stitched by Hannah ....with pockets :)

After all even Frank Churchill buys at Ford's.

@Nina RG
>>She doesn't know that...and means to show off her superior knowledge.

>But then we agree that she doesn't, right?:)

You wilfully misunderstand me.
This quote was one of a few others to support my point that Mrs Elton's offer of introduction at Bath was to show off her knowledge of the world (experience) which includes aquaintances all over.
Her knowledge about which part is known as the garden of England was another such.
The incorrectness of it only adds to the amusement, but had nothing to do with the support I was listing about her showing off of her knowledge/aquaintances/experience.