In late September, I saw a preview for Ovation's new television series called Versailles and I was instantly intrigued. One glimpse of the opulent costumes, the gorgeous cast members, and the stunning sets, and I wanted to see more. The show, which premiered on October 1 and stars George Blagden as King Louis XIV, airs on Ovation on Saturday nights at 10PM EST/PST. I caught the first episode this past weekend and it did not disappoint. The surprise twist at the end of the episode had me laughing out loud.
In case you're rusty on your French history, here's some background info: "at 28, King Louis XIV of France commissions Versailles, the most beautiful palace in Europe, which serves as the King's gilded prison - keeping his friends close and his enemies closer. Enter a world of untold wealth, power, and passion, where love and lust are just a heartbeat away from deceit and betrayal." Sounds like the perfect backdrop for a compelling historical drama, right?
The 10-episode series starts in 1667, as Louis XIV encounters resistance and betrayal from those closest to him. He shifts the seat of power from Paris to his father's former hunting lodge that he plans to enlarge. His goal is to drag his country "out of the darkness and into the light." After several phases of construction, the lodge at Versailles eventually becomes one of the most magnificent palaces in Europe.
Having visited Versailles on a rainy day in May just over three years ago, I can attest to its grandeur and splendor. Below is a photo I took of the famous Hall of Mirrors as well as a gorgeous bedroom.
Given the visually stunning setting and 17th century time period, Versailles focuses on art and fashion, along with the obligatory palace intrigue, backstabbing, and romantic affairs of the countless courtiers.
The series is a feast for the eyes. Expect to see striking cinematography, opulent costumes, a very attractive cast, and some really great wigs. #HairEnvy
Naturally, there's fashion inspiration galore. Think ruffled blouses, velvet footwear, sparkly hair accessories, brocade outerwear, lace cravats (on the men), corsets, petticoats, full sleeves, and dramatic capes. Since so many of these style elements are on-trend this season, here's how you can take inspiration from Louis XIV and his courtiers and get the Versailles look for less.
Crystal and faux pearl necklace, $69 // Colorblock cape, $78 // Crystal and faux pearl drop earrings, $78 // Embroidered organza dress, $138 // Rhinestone flower headband, $32 // Victorian ruffle blouse, $55 // Floral buckle bag, $11.99 // Velvet burnout maxi skirt, $148 // Black elastic belt, $6.53 // Steve Madden velvet 'Edie' bootie, $89.95 // Steve Madden "Timbir' square toe loafer, $89.95
More options:
Thank you to Ovation and Versailles for partnering on this post. Tune in to Ovation on Satudays at 10PM to watch all the drama.
More Versailles-inspired style:
In case you're rusty on your French history, here's some background info: "at 28, King Louis XIV of France commissions Versailles, the most beautiful palace in Europe, which serves as the King's gilded prison - keeping his friends close and his enemies closer. Enter a world of untold wealth, power, and passion, where love and lust are just a heartbeat away from deceit and betrayal." Sounds like the perfect backdrop for a compelling historical drama, right?
The 10-episode series starts in 1667, as Louis XIV encounters resistance and betrayal from those closest to him. He shifts the seat of power from Paris to his father's former hunting lodge that he plans to enlarge. His goal is to drag his country "out of the darkness and into the light." After several phases of construction, the lodge at Versailles eventually becomes one of the most magnificent palaces in Europe.
Having visited Versailles on a rainy day in May just over three years ago, I can attest to its grandeur and splendor. Below is a photo I took of the famous Hall of Mirrors as well as a gorgeous bedroom.
Given the visually stunning setting and 17th century time period, Versailles focuses on art and fashion, along with the obligatory palace intrigue, backstabbing, and romantic affairs of the countless courtiers.
The series is a feast for the eyes. Expect to see striking cinematography, opulent costumes, a very attractive cast, and some really great wigs. #HairEnvy
Naturally, there's fashion inspiration galore. Think ruffled blouses, velvet footwear, sparkly hair accessories, brocade outerwear, lace cravats (on the men), corsets, petticoats, full sleeves, and dramatic capes. Since so many of these style elements are on-trend this season, here's how you can take inspiration from Louis XIV and his courtiers and get the Versailles look for less.
Crystal and faux pearl necklace, $69 // Colorblock cape, $78 // Crystal and faux pearl drop earrings, $78 // Embroidered organza dress, $138 // Rhinestone flower headband, $32 // Victorian ruffle blouse, $55 // Floral buckle bag, $11.99 // Velvet burnout maxi skirt, $148 // Black elastic belt, $6.53 // Steve Madden velvet 'Edie' bootie, $89.95 // Steve Madden "Timbir' square toe loafer, $89.95
More options:
Thank you to Ovation and Versailles for partnering on this post. Tune in to Ovation on Satudays at 10PM to watch all the drama.
More Versailles-inspired style: