By attempting to improve the look of her flat, Maggie tries to show Pete that she would make a good housewife for him. Instances such as these illustrate the fact that Maggie realizes that when attempting to attract a husband, good looks are important,bothi n a woman and in a home. It was not unusual for working women to spend money on their appearance, rather than on more practical items. Her admiration of Pete leads her to try and please him any way she can, and for that reason, she leaves her family to go with Pete, even though her mother threatens not to allow her back in the house. Maggie's looks are obviously the only important thing to Pete.
Looks are the deciding factor.