Fashion Film: Marie Antoinette

Marie Antoinette's opulent costumes as designed by Milena Canonero

Films are a great source of fashion inspiration and Marie antoinette has got to be the single biggest fashion film of the entire year. Its written and directed by an indie fashion icon, staring a Hollywood fashion icon and about a historic fashion icon. So its no wonder the film and its beautiful imagery are splashed out all over runways and between the pages of influential fashion magazines like September Vogue.


Dolce & Gabbana's runway interpretations of the Napoleonic look. One of their best collections ever in my humble opinion. Beautiful clothes that could look good on anyone.

While its all very pretty and deliciously girly how can anyone infuse Napoleonic style into their wardrobe without looking like they've decided to celebrate Halloween early? And how can anyone work this trend if they don't have Kirsten Dunst's figure?

Antoinette Keys
- Sumptuous fabrics like silk, satin & velvet.
- Brocade and loads of it.
- Detailed gold accents
- Ruffles, frills & frou frou
- Strong military references via coats and equestrian trousers

Napoleonic In Real Life

This look doesn't have to be literal, in fact its best when it isn't. Here is my take, focusing less on the frou frou and more on the tougher military elements. The blazer and boots are subtle nods to soldiers uniforms but the frills of the white shirt add an element of romance. Likewise the delicate necklace provides adornment worthy of royalty but without any blingy flash. I'd wear something like this to work or out shopping. For evening I want that gold brocade Dolce dress!


Jacket & Shirt: Marina Rinaldi, Jeweled Necklace: Lanvin, Boots: Dolce & Gabbana

Hints
- Practice restraint, a little gold brocade goes a long way.

- Focus on fabrics: This whole style looks best in exquisite fabrics.

- Pair Napoleonic elements with modern elements. Don't be afraid to mix those gorgeous jackets with oversized gold buttons with this seasons bold animal prints.

- A military inspired blazer is a must have that will take you from season to season.

- Soft pastels like the pinks and blues feature in Marie Antoinette go perfectly with falls palate of greys and blacks.

- Play with accessories. They're a fun way to wear the look in a subtle way.

- Dramatic belts that nip at the waist accentuate curves perfectly.

- A corset can give anyone the most amazing cleavage but remember that the Napoleonic look is more about demure elegance than overt sex appeal.

- If you have a little extra around the tummy area avoid the empire waist and seek out styles with a more streamlined look.

The Final Touches

- Marie Antoinette was known for her signature handcrafted Fargeon fragrance, treat yourself like a queen and wear a decadent perfume like Serge Lutens Douce Amere.

- Add some New Order to your iPods and get yourself in the mood for the film and the look.