Enola Holmes: 10 Things From The Books Not Included In The Film
6. Violet Eversau (Or The Time Sherlock Missed His Sister Standing Right In Front Of Him)
Though her ladylike dress and put-together appearance is shown in the film, the efficacy of Enola's disguises wasn't put on full display like they were in the book.
With just a clever change of clothing, posture, voice, makeup, and hair, pulling from many techniques used in real world espionage, Enola was able to fool Sherlock into overlooking her entirely, even when she was close enough to touch. In one memorable instance, Sherlock very nearly discovered Enola's then unknown whereabouts when she went to visit Mrs. Mary Mornstan Watson, Doctor Watson's wife. Enola was able to escape notice by getting right up in his face and vying for his attention as a fan, her makeup done in such a way as to make her look older.
Her fluttering attentions as young lady "Violet Eversau" were so offensive to Sherlock that he insisted on looking away, not knowing his quarry of some months was right there in front of him. It was a clever tactic not often seen in stories involving disguises and deception - being so offensively noticeable and loud that someone chooses not to pay attention.