What does Proverbs 31:21 mean?

The excellent wife (Proverbs 31:10) prepares so her family's needs are met (Proverbs 31:14, 18). This includes seasonal hardships, such as cold weather or winter snows. The reference to scarlet color implies two things. First, in the Old Testament era, it was expensive. The woman depicted here isn't stingy in these matters: she secures the best she can for her household. Second, this makes use of a vivid contrast. Prior to modern techniques, bleaching cloth was slow and difficult; dyes could instantly and permanently add color. The "scarlet" clothes are an absolute contrast to the "white" snow (Isaiah 1:18).

Today, parents are expected to provide suitable clothes for their children. The sight of a coatless, shivering child in winter usually inspires criticism directed towards their mother. That may be unfair, in some cases, but protection from the elements is deeply ingrained as a basic aspect of good childcare. Here, the writer affirms that one trait of the "excellent wife" is proper care for such needs.