A young woman navigates the treacherous social landscape of early 20th-century London, seeking to escape her humble origins through marriage and social climbing.

Edwina is determined to ascend the social ladder, using her beauty and charm to attract wealthy suitors. Her primary obstacle is the rigid class structure and the moral judgments of society, which often clash with her own desires and ambitions. The narrative framework appears to be third-person, following Edwina's experiences and internal thoughts as she maneuvers through balls, parties, and clandestine meetings.

Compton Mackenzie's "The Vanity Girl" offers a sharp critique of societal aspirations and the superficiality that can drive them. The novel delves into the complexities of early 20th-century social climbing, particularly through the eyes of its ambitious protagonist. Readers and critics have noted Mackenzie's keen observation of human nature and his ability to portray the allure and pitfalls of social ambition. The work is often seen as a commentary on the era's values and the compromises individuals made in pursuit of status and wealth.