Francis Hayman and Marie Antoinette

In the grand tapestry of fashion history, the contributions of Francis Hayman and Marie Antoinette cannot be understated. 

Francis Hayman, a prominent English painter, rose to prominence in the mid-18th century and significantly influenced fashion trends of his era. Hayman is perhaps best known for his Pamela series paintings. These paintings, which showcased the young heroine in an array of delicate and stylish outfits, were based on the popular Pamela novels. Women of the court and beyond looked to these paintings for inspiration. They aspired to recreate the latest dress styles, like the snug bodice and long sleeves depicted, as well as the accessories, thus Hayman's paintings shaped the trends of that era. 

This era of fashion encapsulated what would later be known as the “IT Girl” fashionista phase. Women began to adopt a particular innovation known as the 'redingote.' This garment, often showcased in Hayman's work, was a long coat with broad lapels. It added an air of sophistication, illustrating the power of clothing as a language of status and influence which still holds relevance today. 

Transitioning another century to French court fashion, the elegant and extravagant Marie Antoinette, the queen of France, made her mark. Her sense of style significantly influenced the Baroque and Rococo periods. Notably, she was a faithful patron of the fashion house 'Rose Bertin,' which was known to create some of the most opulent and trendsetting court dresses of the time. As in the trend, the court dresses were often characterized by tight-fitting bodices, long sleeves, and flamboyant accessories, all of which added to the overall charm and grandeur. 

Marie Antoinette’s love for jewelry was also renown. Her collection consisted not only of precious gems, but charming miniature portraits and even fragrant flowers. The influential queen's preference for statement pieces often led to an increase in their popularity throughout France and even across its borders. 

Both Hayman and Antoinette used their platforms, whether it be painting or the royal court, to direct fashion trends in ways that still reverberate today. This lends a certain timelessness to their contributions, proving that fashion is indeed cyclical, borrowing elements from the past while still looking towards the future.