Ann, who narrates the entire movie, is an aspiring actress who joins her sister Sally in New York City. Sally poses in the nude for art classes; she meets Bob, a young artist, and they become engaged. Bob introduces Ann to his friend Charles, a writer, and the two are immediately attracted. Ann eventually decides, however, that Charles is a confirmed bachelor, and she concentrates on establishing her career. She makes the rounds of theatrical agencies without success; in desperation, she answers an advertisement for a photographer's model and meets Mark, a smooth-talking agent who devotes his energies to finding her jobs. Her poses become increasingly revealing, but she continues to be treated with respect. Mark eventually presents Ann with an invitation to what seems to be a normal party given by the influential Lil Duncan. This event proves to be the breaking point for Ann.