From Marie Antoinette to the Sun King, the power, grace, and influence of the French court have been felt across the centuries in more than just politics. In fashion, the French court has been unmatched, leaving a trail of influence so omnipresent that centuries later, many of its signature silhouettes, colors, and ideas still exist in modern fashion. Explore the stunning legacy of the French court in this article, as we vainly plunge into the singular fashions of the French court.
I. Exploring the Fashions of the French Court
The French court in the mid-1800s placed an importance on fashion and the luxurious life, setting an example for the affluent around the world. From Marie Antoinette and the European elite, we take some of the most iconic fashions of all time.
From the biggest trend this season, to the oldest traditions, the fashion of the French court was one that was always evolving. Be it a hat that was decades old or a dress created for a visiting member of nobility, no two looks were the same.
- The lace: Some of the most ornate and exquisite lace during this period was worn by royalty on special occasions.
- The corset: Heavily constricting the waist, the cinched silhouette was a staple and predominant look of the aristocrats.
- The veil: Played with at court, yet still considered a necessary accessory for special occasions
Rich fabrics were all the rage and the more expensive, the more valuable. From velvet, to silk and brocades, these elaborate fabrics were made to look more luxurious when paired with statement pieces like large diamonds or gold jewelry. Lavish statements, such as the ornate headpieces and plumed hats, were also worn as expressions of wealth.
The French court of the 1800s was the leading example of high class fashion, creating some of the most iconic and timeless looks that we know today.
II. Royal Styles Shaping the French Court
Although it is often difficult to pinpoint the exact origin of any cultural development, when it comes to royal styles, many agree that the French court of the 17th and 18th centuries had a distinct influence. The rise of the French monarchy and nobility, as well as the emergence of fashionable salons, played a key role in this process.
Elements of Royalty
The French court had its own distinct language, clothing, etiquette, as well as other elements of court life. Luxurious fabrics and elaborate embroidery were frequently used to express wealth and power. Similarly, fashion reflected a preference for strong, bright colors, such as red, purple, and gold. Furthermore, the fashion often used delicate and intricate details to enhance the natural form of the wearer.
Influences from the French Court
By the late 18th century, much of Europe had adopted the French court’s styles. For example, the full-skirted dresses with tight waists and low décolletés, fashionable even for daytime occasions, were inspired by the polished silhouettes of the ancien régime. Similarly, women’s hairstyles were often inspired by the floppy “chignon” style of Marie Antoinette. The influence of the French court extended beyond Europe – the famous flapper dresses of the 1920s were a direct result of the desire of the Jazz Age teenagers for freedom from the constraints of traditional rigid fashion.
III. Impact of French Royal Fashions on Society
The French Royal fashions have had a huge impact on the world’s perception of fashion and style. From small village-based couture houses to esteemed luxury fashion conglomerates, the influence of the French court is visible throughout the industry.
The French court served as one of the main reasons why fashion changed into an widespread, even universal, accepted past-time. Before this, clothing was just made to provide warmth and modesty. The drive of the French court in creating lavish yet elegant designs popularised fashion imperialism and marked the beginning of fashion as a form of expression.
The royal garments and fabrics deployed heavily in the courts of France had incredible impact on material culture during the 17th and 18th centuries. These styles included opulent gowns and ornate bodices crafted in heavy fabrics such as silks and velvets. The intricate details of the menswear and the styles that were particularly favoured by high-society women quickly spread throughout Europe, gaining acclaim and inspiring adaptations.
Today, the impact of French royal fashions is alive and well, with leading designers influenced by the extravagant designs and fabrics of Louis XIV and Marie Antoinette. Innovative hairstyles, elaborate make-up, and extravagant gowns fuse the best of the old world style with modern silhouettes and techniques. The result is an eclectic catwalk of regal-inspired garments that are as daring as they are timeless.
- The French Royal court popularised fashion imperialism
- Esteemed designers are still influenced by their design aesthetic
- Royal garments and fabrics had impact on material culture
IV. Examining the Timeless Flair of French Royalty
It’s no secret that French royalty from the 18th century possess a timeless charm that enthralls scholars and casual historians alike. The two most well-known members of French royalty from this era are King Louis XVI and Queen Marie Antoinette.
Their famous flourishes―from intricate portraits to indulgent costumes―was a direct result of their royal status and their fascination with grandeur. In particular, Marie Antoinette had a penchant for wearing extravagant pieces that reflected the luxury of the era. From elaborate head-dresses to ornamental jewelry, the Queen’s style was one of ultimate opulence.
The opulent wardrobe was balanced out by Marie Antoinette’s love for nature and her inclination towards more casual clothing pieces. On days spent exploring in the gardens and courtyards of Versailles, her personal retreat, she could be found sporting her signature pastel-hued robes.
The two monarchs confidently used fashion as a form of expression to communicate their power, wealth, and sophistication. From generation to generation, the influence of French royalty still gives us pause, highlighting how lasting fashion can be.
- King Louis XVI, the bold innovator of trendsetting attire
- Queen Marie Antoinette, the iconic symbol of extravagance
- Versailles, Marie Antoinette’s personal retreat and favorite spot to explore
V. Lasting Influences of French Court Fashions
From the 17th to the early 20th century, the concept of fashion in Europe was dominated by the elegance and extravagance of the French court. During this time, French court fashions revolutionized royal elegance and set trends in all matters of fashion, inspiring developments in clothing, accessories, hairstyles, and makeup.
As a lasting influence, French court fashions were used to epitomize opulence and upper-class power. Terms such as “régence” and “rococo” rose to describe this luxurious era of fashion, becoming important concepts in design. For centuries, royal trends have even topped high fashion, with designers like Christian Dior and Louis Vuitton creating their collections inspired by the luxurious fabrics and intricate beading of French court fashion.
Moreover, French court fashions have left their mark on modern makeup trends. The bold, dramatic look reached its peak during the Baroque period, and remains an ongoing trend on the red carpet today. Bright, colorful eye makeup, dramatically contoured and powdered faces, and statement lip colors are all based on the looks of the Royal Court. Similarly, the development of the beauty industry was inspired by the need for elaborate hair and beauty treatments of the French court.
- Image: French court fashion has left its mark on popular trends that can still be seen today.
- Era: From the 17th to the early 20th century, the concept of fashion in Europe was heavily influenced by the French court.
- Influence: The luxurious fabrics and intricate beading of French court have influenced modern designers, makeup trends, and the beauty industry.
The influence of French royal style is an enduring fashion phenomenon. From the modern day to days of Louis XIV, the importance of the glory and grandeur of French royal court fashion is continuously envisioned, emulated, and appreciated for its timelessness and glamour. Long may it reign!
