Catherine de’ Medici transformed French beauty culture, introducing Italian perfumery and complexion care. Honey mixed with floral waters became a court favourite, used to soften and scent the skin. Honey hydrated, while rosewater or orange blossom water added refinement. These rinses were applied after cleansing to maintain brightness beneath powders and perfumes. Honey also actedContinue reading “Catherine de’ Medici: Honey & Floral Waters of the French Court”
Tag Archives: Catherine de’ Medici
French Fashion History, Part I: The Foundations
French fashion did not begin with couture. Its roots stretch back centuries, shaped by craftsmanship, politics, and the early rise of luxury culture. Long before Paris became the world’s fashion capital, France was building the systems, materials, and artistry that would define its global influence. In the medieval period, dressmaking guilds established strict standards forContinue reading “French Fashion History, Part I: The Foundations”
Catherine de Medici: The Birth of the High Heel
Catherine de Medici’s arrival in France in 1533 marked a turning point not only in politics and perfumery, but in fashion itself. Among the treasures she brought from Florence was a pair of 2‑inch heeled shoes, crafted to give the petite young bride height, confidence and presence at her wedding to Henry II. What beganContinue reading “Catherine de Medici: The Birth of the High Heel”
Catherine de’ Medici: The Lady Who Brought Beauty (and Fashion) to France
When Catherine de’ Medici arrived in France in 1533 as the new Queen of France, she did not come alone. She brought with her an entire world, a Renaissance beauty culture shaped by Italian science, alchemy, perfumery, and ritual. In doing so, she forever altered the course of French beauty and fashion. Catherine was notContinue reading “Catherine de’ Medici: The Lady Who Brought Beauty (and Fashion) to France”
