Queen Isabel I of Castille, known as Isabella The Catholic, went down in history as one the most powerful female leaders. Her desire to command an entire nation and her visionary ideals led to the unification of Spain and what we know today as the Golden Age. This important period is not only historically important, but continues to be an inspiration for today's fashion.



The angelic Michelle Jenner, plays the young Queen in the hit Spanish telenovela Isabel. The costume design of this award-winning show portrays the period's fashion with elegant detail and shows how these trends have inspired many of today's top fashion designers such as Alexander McQueen and Dolce & Gabanna.




Royal fashion of the time exemplifies the luxury, power, and wealth of the monarchs without losing their regal delicacy. It was common to see outfits adorned in all types of jewels, pearls, and gold, usually embroidered in rich velvets and exotic silks. Although nowadays these fashion trends are often not affordable or even practical, their powerful imagery evokes feelings of extreme luxury and pure decadence.



The evocative nature of period based clothing has led today's top fashion designers to reuse these trends on the runway. A great example are the Valentino black cloaks on his spring 2013 Couture Collection, these capes were actually a favorite of Queen Isabel. Dresses with embroidery and applications were a must in court as they are today. Dolce & Gabbana and Elie Saab have proposed in recent collections very sumptuous fabrics and have worked to get the Royal Trend.



In particular Alexander McQueen, whose 2013 Fall collection is being dubbed by some as the Royal Catholic Collection. McQueen's vision of glory, his sensitivity to history, and imagination is nothing short from brilliance as it emphasizes the leadership of the feminine spirit. Take the time to notice the marvelous work on the complex embroidery and detailed beading while keeping in mind the futuristic trends that defined his vision.



To relive the coronation of the inspirational Queen Isabel I of Castile, there's nothing better than to follow and admire the trends set by Dolce & Gabanna, McQueen and other designers that include inlaid crowns, pearls and stones. In case you're interested in following this great story with an eye for fashion, or if you are a big fan of telenovelas like I am, I'd recommend you try this one!