She was incited to inflame attention and admiration. She was dressed for it, subtly schooled for it. And after a while she gave herself up wholly to the fascinating business of being seen, gaped at, desired. “

Gape (Verb)

To gaze stupidly or in open mouthed surprise or wonder

http://i.word.com/idictionary/gape

Helga was excited about her new clothes. She was infatuated with the idea that men would now be paying her more attention. This was a change for her. Helga was sure that her new appearance would shock everyone.

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