In this song, the narrator is talking to her bartender friend, Henry, about dating unfamous men. Henry tells her that she is lucky to know him and be alive. He then asks her if she wants to be a polyester bride, if she wants to find alligator cowboy boots on sale, and if she wants to fly away from her current situation. The narrator later asks Henry why there are men like that, and Henry gives the same response. The song ends with the narrator questioning whether she should fly away and be a polyester bride.

Meaning of "Polyester Bride" by Liz Phair

"Polyester Bride" by Liz Phair explores themes of self-worth, rebellion, and the desire for escape. The narrator, who is feeling lonely and low, seeks advice from her bartending friend, Henry. The repetitive line "you're lucky to even know me" suggests that the narrator believes she should settle for less in relationships. Henry's suggestion to be a polyester bride symbolizes conformity and settling for an artificial, cheap version of happiness. The line "Do you want to find alligator cowboy boots they just put on sale" further emphasizes the temptation to conform to societal ideals and superficial desires. The repeated question "Do you want to flap your wings and fly away from here" reflects the narrator's yearning for freedom and escapism from her current circumstances. Despite Henry's reassurances that she has time, the narrator struggles to believe it, continuously pushing herself further away. The song captures the tension between societal expectations and the desire for personal fulfillment, ultimately leaving the listener questioning whether the narrator will choose to be a polyester bride or find the courage to fly away and create her own path.