Lingerie for a Modern Marie Antoinette
So I saw the film Farewell My Queen (Adieux à la Reine) last week and I loved it. It covered only the few days between the storming of the Bastille and when the Duchess of Polignac fled Versailles for Switzerland. The mood of the film was dark and ominous, while the costumes were deliciously detailed and luxurious, a juxtaposition that highlighted the unusual historical crisis. Also, there was historical lesbian romance, something films these days are seriously lacking (Hollywood, you can be sure that I would see all of those films, so get on it). Diana Kruger was excellent as Marie Antoinette– a good mix of sympathetic and out of touch that to me felt real for someone whose absurdly secure lifestyle was destabilizing. The actress who played the protagonist, Sidonie, was mysterious and not very likable, but an interesting perspective through which to see the unfolding drama. The only poor acting came from the Duchess of Polignac– I could never be sure what her feelings were meant to be. She passed through the movie more like an image than a real person, but perhaps that formed a part of Sidonie’s outsider perspective.

Farewell, My Queen Poster
Anyway, on to lingerie. The film was absolutely stuffed with luxurious fabrics and gorgeous textures, it made me think of all those pieces of lingerie that seem luxurious, sensual and rococo in spirit. I definitely did not choose pieces that are even close to being affordable–I like to think of them as “ancien regime” prices. I can’t say I wouldn’t love to feel like royalty in them, though.
There is nothing subtle about this robe’s extravagance– I think the abundance of gold lace gives it away. It is clearly fit for royalty. The turquoise and gold just seem so beautiful, with such an easy shape, that I would love wrap myself in it if I were a modern day Marie Antoinette.
These panties make me think of Marie Antoinette’s desire to be a simple shepherdess and her faux-rustic hamlet at Versailles. The shape and the primrose color seem so simple, but the lace and the side-ties are clearly so beautiful, detailed and expensive.
This set is actually on sale over at Myla! And it is one of the most reasonably priced on this list. I think the accessories really make it perfect– adding to the playful air of the beauty and luxury.
This lovely bustier just seems so decadent– as the price will attest to. I never realized how lovely silver lace was until I saw this. The luxuriousness is palpable, as well as its obvious sensuality.
Finally, this darling Lalilouche bra and panties set seems so sweet and playful and unconcerned with the needs of everyday life. “Let them eat cake” panties as it were. They definitely have the rococo and Fragonard touch to them.
So, what do you think? Is Marie Antoinette someone you could be in a lingerie persona? Or is it silly even looking at some of these pieces that are so far out of mortal reach (at least, for me)?



I’ve been really drawn lately to the most decadent lingerie I can find. I think it’s a reaction against the American predilection for t-shirt bras: I want silk and lace and ruffles and feathers and chiffon, so the styles you picked are all right up my alley. I’d also like the budget to go along with it, but that’s for another day. I can’t wait to see this movie!
I know! Every time I see something that says that the bra/shapewear/whatever is “invisible” or “practical,” I just sigh– I am so drawn to the more interesting/unusual/luxe lingerie!
I haven’t seen the movie either, but now has an incentive to do so.
Your choice of “royal lingerie” is really nice and outstanding as I’m also drawn to the more fancy stuff (despite recommending Soma to you and your readers couple of weeks ago).
Towards the end you mention “lingerie persona” which is a very interesting concept and should further developed and explored.
I think lingerie is about fantasy, so continue looking at beautiful lingerie regardless of price range. Especially for me, since I feel that there’s this implicit message from my culture that underwear should be practical…or maybe cute(tsy)
Ooh these are gorgeous! I’d like to congratulate you and thank you for writing “the lingerie lesbian”. I’m a bisexual woman who loves lingerie and is pleased to read the thoughts of someone like me. Visibility matters! (sorry for any mistakes, English is not my native language)
Thank you for your comment! I’m so glad you like it
. I love finding others who feel the same way as I do.
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