What is an example of symbolism in the novel, Gabi, a Girl in Pieces?

Dresses in Gabi’s mind are a symbol of discomfort. Because she is overweight, Gabi finds dresses constricting. She has trouble finding dresses she likes in her size. Gabi is particularly uncomfortable when her mother brings home a dress for her to wear for her senior pictures. Gabi hates all dresses but does not want to hurt her mother’s feelings by not wearing it.