This passage highlights a shift in women's behavior and societal expectations, emphasizing that modern working women embraced and expressed their femininity openly, unlike past generations who often concealed or minimized it. They no longer felt the need to apologize for their identity, instead choosing to celebrate it proudly.
The quote also notes that these women were given opportunities and privileges previously unavailable to women. As a result, they not only embraced their femininity but also sought to expand their achievements and rights, demanding more from society and asserting their independence and confidence.