I just finished this short sci-fi story by Geoff Ryman, I really liked it. Anything by this writer is usually very much above average.
"Mae lived in the last village in the world to go on line.
After that, everyone else went on Air.
Mae was the village's fashion expert. She advised on makeup, sold cosmetics, and provided good dresses. Every farmer's wife needed at least one good dress.
Mae would sketch what was being worn in the capital. She would always add a special touch: a lime green scarf with sequins; or a lacy ruffle with colourful embroidery. A good dress was for display. "We are a happier people and we can wear these gay colours," Mae would advise."
