Carla Bruni-Sarkozy, who drew a firestorm of criticism after she began dating – and ultimately marrying – French President Nicolas Sarkozy, is giving us a little glimpse of her personality.

The supermodel-turned-head-of-state spouse told French TV that her wedding to Sarkozy was decided just two days before the big event, and that she barely had time to find a dress. What did she end up wearing? A cream Hermès knee-length dress she bought off the rack in Paris.

She also practiced her royal etiquette to prepare for introductions to the world’s aristocrats.

Bruni-Sarkozy — who is also a singer-songwriter and recently released her third album — even practiced her curtsy for Britain’s Queen Elizabeth with British rock singer Marianne Faithfull. “I did not imagine that people would talk about the curtsy that much afterwards.”

Newspapers like the British Daily Mail then described that curtsy as the most calculated act of homage to a British monarch since Anne Boleyn bowed to Henry VIII to become his second wife in 1533. But during that visit, the British likened Bruni-Sarkozy, 40, to Jackie O and even Princess Diana. Bruni-Sarkozy told NBC’s Matt Lauer during a recent interview that the visit was "fun."

The Italian-born beauty had been branded a "man-eater" by the press for her long list of conquests, including Mick Jagger and Eric Clapton. A clothing store in France this week was forced to pay 40,000 euros ($58,500 dollars) after featuring a naked image of her (which she called "works of art") on their shopping bags.

France — and the world — have warmed up to Bruni-Sarkozy. When Lauer noted that her approval ratings were very high during his interview, the first lady signaled she was a little unconfident.

"It’s an honor to be first lady of France. I just hope I’m good enough."

Carla, honey, we’re sure you’ll do just fine.