In 1950s post-war London, renowned dressmaker Reynolds Woodcock creates stunning garments for royalty, movie stars, heiresses, and debutants. His fastidious and controlled lifestyle is a byproduct of his devotion to his craft, allowing him no room for disruptions. Assisted by his sister Cyril, who manages the day-to-day operations of their prestigious fashion house, Woodcock's life follows a meticulous routine until he encounters a young, strong-willed waitress named Alma on a trip to the countryside. Struck by her beauty and unique demeanor, he asks Alma to become his model, muse, and lover, disrupting the precise rhythm of his once orderly life.

As Alma moves into Reynolds's London residence and becomes more involved in his work, her presence challenges the established order. Her love for the dressmaker brings about an evolving dynamic, fueling both affection and tension within the house. As Woodcock's new muse, Alma's influence grows, but her desire for closeness with Reynolds creates friction with Cyril and disturbs the equilibrium that has so far defined the dressmaker's existence. The interplay between artist and muse begins to teeter on a delicate balance as Alma seeks to permanently cement her place in his life, pushing against the boundaries of his once unyielding dedication to his craft and lifestyle.