The story begins and ends in a fashion photographer's studio in Stockholm; the rest of the film takes place in Gothenburg. The opening sequence is silent and tense. Doris, a model for Susanne, a fashion designer, is preparing for the photographer. Only the drumming fingers of Magnus, an obese businessman and fashion director, can be heard.

The tense atmosphere is sustained as Susanne is on the train to Gothenburg. Only the sound of the train wheels can be heard. Susanne struggles with an impulse to commit suicide with her efforts reflected in quick images of her face against a rain-swept train window.

Arriving in Gothenburg, Susanne and Doris go their separate ways. The plot follows two strands, one involving Susanne in her attempt to persuade her lover, Henrik, a businessman, to make a commitment to her; the other depicting Doris and her brief encounter with a much older man, Consul Sonderby. The fantasies of the women are laid bare; Susanne longs for marriage and children, Doris seeks riches and the life of a movie star.

Henrik comes to Susanne's hotel room. He is preoccupied with his faltering business and admits his financial dependence on his wife. When the wife arrives unexpectedly, Susanne realises Henrik will never divorce her.

In parallel to these events we view Doris' excursions in the city. The Consul buys her clothes and jewellery. They go to an amusement park and a roller -coaster ride highlights the age difference and reveals her mercenary dreams. Sonderby's motives are similarly self-centred. He is using Doris, who reminds him of his dead wife, to rejuvenate himself through her youth. The fantasy is interrupted by the appearance of his cold and offensive daughter. Doris departs, leaving the presents behind.

Back in Stockholm Susanne receives a letter from Henrik, proposing they continue their clandestine affair, which she rips up. Doris returns to her former boyfriend, Palle, a young student. Both women seek solace for their shattered dreams through their work.