A young working-class woman named Denise Baudu arrives in Paris with her brothers, Pepe and Jean. They left rural France on train, traveling in the cheapest seats. Denise is the oldest sibling at 20, while Jean is 16 and Pepe is five. The city threatens to overwhelm them as they search for Rue de la Michodiere, home to their uncle Baudu, who offered to take the siblings into his home after their parents died from the flu. As they search, Denise is struck by a department store window that is bursting with color. The store is named The Ladies’ Paradise and is far grander than any store Denise has seen, particularly the provincial drapery store where she was employed for two years. The silks, clothing, and furs on display are luxurious, though Denise is surprised they are so cheap. Mirrors reflect the lavishly dressed mannequins from many angles.

As the siblings stare at the department store, a gray-haired man watches. Denise and Jean recognize him as their uncle Baudu. He is outside his own store, Au Vieil Elbeuf. In contrast to The Ladies’ Paradise, Au Vieil Elbeuf is small and dingy. When Denise introduces herself, Baudu is surprised.