I have been reading "What Marie Antoinette Wore to the Revolution" and have
been captivated by the author's thesis re the effects of 'fashion/anti
fashion' had in many aspects of 18th Century France. "Buy French" is an
early theme and her arrival as the Dauphine-ellect plays out much as
featured in the most recent film...except, it seems that the truth of the
matter is that Mother Maria Teresa sent her to France complete with an up to
date trouseau of the latest French fashions that were confiscated by the new
court.
We remember that MA was criticized for her wonton extravigant use of the
treasury for her own adornment. Most of her gowns could only be worn once
or twice by court tradition and edicts. The silk trade dominated the core
of the rag trade. When she changed the styles to a more countrified look,
she was blamed again for causing a depression in the fashion related trades.
She really rocks the boat when she begins to have her wardrobe repaired and
re-embellished instead of buying new!
Lots of descriptions of clothing and hairstyles and details of her
connections with Bertin and the royal hairdresser. Illustrations are few but
taken from portraiture and cartoons; the written word carries the day.
I am fascinated with this new conception of a "Petticoat Rebellion"
Anyone on the list who might have cracked this book?
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