Marie Antoinette was not only a queen but a fashion model of her time, long before the age of contemporary runway shows and influencer culture. When she became queen in 1774, her passion for extravagant clothing and curated appearance helped transform fashion into an expressive art form — much like how models today bring designers’ visions to life on the runway.

At the opulent court of Versailles, Marie Antoinette devoted herself to planning her wardrobe and hairstyles with the same dedication a model agency invests in preparing talent for a high-profile fashion show. She commissioned up to 300 bespoke dresses a year, never repeating an outfit and always pushing the boundaries of style. Her bold outfits and towering hairstyles captured the public’s imagination and set trends across Europe, turning Paris into a global fashion capital.

Marie Antoinette’s collaboration with her “fashion minister,” Rose Bertin, mirrors today’s working relationship between designers and the agents who support models in the fashion industry. Together, they turned what had been a craft into a spectacle that fascinated the public, much like modern fashion weeks where models walk runways to premiere cutting-edge collections.

One of her most remarkable contributions was popularizing elaborate and decorated hairstyles — the iconic “poufs” — reminiscent of how models showcase avant-garde looks for editorial spreads. These extravagant hair designs often included flowers, feathers, pearls, and even miniature ships, showcasing how hairstyle and clothing became tools for bold self-expression.

Her influence extended beyond court circles. Marie Antoinette helped make pastel-dyed hair and playful accessories desirable, much like how contemporary models set trends both on and off the runway. Her love of fashion pushed artistry and design into the cultural mainstream, inspiring generations of designers, stylists, and yes — models — who draw upon history for fresh ideas.

Today, modeling continues to evolve, but the essence remains the same: innovative looks and visionary style spark imagination and shape cultural narratives. In that sense, Marie Antoinette was a model of fashion influence long before modern model agencies existed, setting a precedent for how personal style can leave an enduring legacy on global fashion.