History and High Heels: Women of History: Marie Antoinette

Four days ago was the 256th birthday of renown female historical figure Marie Antoinette. She was christened Marie Antonia Josepha Johanna, the youngest daughter of Holy Roman Emperor Francis I of the Habsburgs in Austria. In 1765, Francis I died of a stroke leaving his wife Maria Theresa to co-rule the Holy Roman Empire with her son Emperor Joseph II. In order to strengthen their position in the world and prevent war with France, Antonia was betrothed to the Dauphin of France, Louis-Auguste. Their ceremonial wedding took place in 1770 in the Palace of Versailles, which was supposed to be followed by the long awaited consummation of their vows, but this did not occur and caused friction for many years to come. After the death of King Louis XV in May 1774, Louis and Marie Antoinette ascended to the throne as the King and Queen of France.

Recently I read a book of historical fiction on Marie Antoinette and found this enigmatic woman incredibly interesting. Her influence on fashion and love for dressing in rich finery was almost unparalleled at the time. She loved creating and naming new colors for the seasons. One I remember was a grey color called goose droppings that was particularly popular for women's dress colors. She also dictated one season that feathers were the new item in style and that next day women were seen sporting bird feathers in their hair and bought out the stock of feathers in Parisian stores nearly as quickly. Her extravagant taste and exuberant passion for style is inspiring for fellow fashion lovers.

Marie Antoinette serves as a reminder to all of us for the need to indulge in our feminine side. Also, it also reminds us that fashion is supposed to be a fun part of life and never should become something just routine. Let fashion be an art form and you will quickly begin to experience the excitement that comes from actively engaging in the art community. So go out and throw on several chains of necklaces, wear a sweetheart dress, indulge in sequins (great for this holiday season!), and put a big bow in your hair. You're a woman so embrace it!