The irony in O. Henry's description of Madame Sofronie, the hair dealer, is that despite her appearance being mismatched with her name, she is still successful in her profession. The description of Madame Sofronie being "large, too white, chilly" contrasts with the name "Sofronie," which suggests elegance and warmth. This irony highlights the theme of appearances being deceiving and challenges the reader's initial judgment of Madame Sofronie.
