With the anticipated third season of the beloved fan-favourite series ‘Bridgerton’ scheduled to grace the screens in May this year, it’s time to look at the show that sparked the trend of ‘Regencycore’. The aesthetic is all about ornate outfits, colour, and glamour. The term was first devised by Lyst, which almost immediately noted that searches for corsets were up by 123%, while empire-line dresses increased by 93% after the show’s debut.
While elaborate gowns, pearl chokers, and miniature bejewelled bags are the show’s most in-demand pieces, trying to replicate those looks can be a little too over the top for a casual day out, so here are some tips to style yourself as a modern-day Bridgerton character.
The empire waist
Nothing shaped the Regency era quite like the empire waist. Lower, tighter waists were long gone and soon replaced by higher-waisted bodices and flowy skirts that concealed the silhouette. A modern-day look can be achieved with empire waisted dresses and tops. Babydoll dresses in particular perfectly match the modern-day Regency dress look.
If dresses are not your choice, another way to achieve this look is by layering fitted cami tops or corset tops over baggy shirts. This pairing accentuates the empire waist and gives the illusion of a bodice of a Regency gown, while sporting some pants for the bottom. For a glam look try pairing a beaded crop top over your shirt.
Stick a bow on it
Whether it’s bow hair accessories or bow belts or bows incorporated into your outfits itself, they’re a great nod to the Bridgerton-esque style. Bows give off a chic and feminine look that pulls a cute outfit together. Think of bows weaved in with your braids, tying bows around your neck as chokers, or even DIY-ing some bows onto your clothes.
Puff sleeves
Like Anne Shirley (of ‘Anne of Green Gables’ fame) once said: “Life isn’t worth living without puffed sleeves.” Puffed sleeves immediately give you a royal, princesses-like look, don’t you think? Pick out dresses with flowy puffed sleeves, or even tops with exaggerated puffed sleeves. Even short puffed sleeves are enough to pull off this look.
From bonnets to bandannas and bucket hats?
Bonnets were in fashion back in the 1800s, but they might be too bold or even controversial to pull off today. Instead, try toning it down by styling bandanas in silks and organza materials to give off that wealthy look. Or perhaps try a stylish hat or bucket hat that is both practical and a fashionable accessory.
The reticule
A reticule was simply a petite, pretty purse, made to wear easily around the wrist. These were sewn out of delicate fabrics such as muslin and silk. Not only is this fashion item handy to store your belongings, but quite easy to fit into today’s fashion. Minimalistic materials or simple patterns will probably blend with today’s vogue.
The Spencer jacket
Another staple of the Bridgerton/Regency era was the Spencer jacket, which was a short jacket, often with long sleeves and with a high neckline. Mostly made from wool or silk, the Spencer jacket was an item peculiar to the Regency period because it was specifically designed to coordinate with the empire waist gown. This look can be achieved with a cropped jacket or cropped blazer paired with a cute skirt to make it all come together.