The year 1900 ushers in a new century and the promise of social change, and women rise together toward equality. Constance Halstead, a young widow, has thrown herself into charitable work. Upon meeting Alice Butterworth, she offers lodging in exchange for Alice's help creating a gown for the Leap Year ball of Les Mysterieuses, the first all female krewe of Mardi Gras. During Leap Years, women have the rare opportunity to take control in their interactions with men, and upend social convention. Piece by piece, the breathtaking gown takes shape, becoming a symbol of strength for both women.
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