As I anxiously await the third season of Bridgerton to come out, I can’t help but reflect on the past two seasons as well. Apart from wondering how season 2’s storyline can be topped, I wonder how the Bridgerton aesthetic and fashion can be tied into styles today.
The show has been called out for historical inaccuracies due to the styles that are selected for the Regency period (1811-1820). We see these inaccuracies through the chemisette-free neckline of some of the dresses, the vibrant hues donned by each family, and the fabrics utilized. The ladies of Bridgerton also wear hats as opposed the well worn bonnets of the time.
The similarities that we see between fantasy and history are captured through the empire waist lines and cap sleeves we see on these beloved dresses. This style during the Regency period changed over time as well as pulled influence from many places. Grecian influence is one I think a large part of this style was pulled from as demonstrated by the light muslin fabrics and flowing figures of the dresses.
Although perhaps more Bridgerton picks and Grecian influenced than historically accurate, below are my suggestions for Bridgerton inspired dresses.
1. Tea time silks
I love this pick from Reformation due to the silk fabric this dress is made from. You can’t tell me you haven’t seen the ladies on screen wearing essentially the same thing! I also love the skin peeking through the lace waistline for a modern twist.
2. Modern Neckline
My favorite part of this dress is of course the neckline. The low, straight-across cut is reminiscent of a lot of the Bridgerton gowns we see. Not to mention this dress is made from breathable linen, perfect for your summer Bridgerton watch parties!
3. Floral Sleeves
I get cold easily. If my legs are out, I want my arms covered. This floral dress from Hill House is the perfect combo! Not to mention I like the fitted sleeves along the forearm. This prevents your sleeves from dipping in your afternoon tea as you reach across the table for those little sandwiches. Of course, not very lady like to reach across the table, but in reality this isn’t the 1800s!
3. Empire Waist Poof
I think the model wearing this might be Penelope Featherington. The other reason you should think about getting this dress is the lovely empire waistline and square neckline, reminiscent of the Bridgerton dresses. This dress stands out and is perhaps non-traditional in the fact that it poofs out, as opposed to the draping we see for this time period. I think this is a great pick if you find the shape of this dress more flattering on you.
5. Ethereal Ivory
The cap sleeves and the low neckline are a perfect call back to the Bridgerton aesthetic. I feel as if this dress also pulls a lot of the Grecian influence I described earlier as seen by the flowy white drape of the dress. You can’t wear this dress and not immediately want to run barefoot across the garden scenery in Bridgerton.
6. Mrs. Penelope Bridgerton
The bright yellow of this dress is so Penelope Featherington. I’m excited to see her transition to Mrs. Bridgerton in this upcoming season. The poofy cap sleeves and A-line shape provide a different and refreshing take on the Regency trends.
7. Springtime Bliss
Again the square neckline and capped sleeves are a welcomed call back to the Bridgerton aesthetic we’re striving for. This dress with the muted florals is a great dress pick for spring, but toned down enough to wear through a variety of seasons and occasions.
8. Cool Girl Drapey
The overall form of this dress preserves more of that Regency period figure that we see from the waistline down. The movement of the fabric gives a modern vibe, while the floor length is a great call back to the accuracy of the dresses back then. The flutter sleeves and V-neck also give a modern twist that is oh-so cool.
8. Classic Modern
I’m definitely more of a midi dress length girl as I think this length offers a lot of versatility. It can easily be dressed up or down for a variety of occasions; it’s not just a Bridgerton party dress. The empire waistline is also reminiscent of the dresses we see of this period.
10. The Outlier
There are not a lot of elements of this dress that I would say pulls from the Bridgerton aesthetic and Regency period. However, I think this is a great pick for the real world. The color and the puff sleeves I think are fun and different enough to stand out, but still stick within the color theme if you’re planning a Bridgerton themed party.
If you go out shopping on your own and would like to replicate the style that’s worn by the ladies of Bridgerton, look for: empire waist lines, cap sleeves, forms that drape, and fun colors! Whatever dress you select, make sure you can wear it for multiple occasions as well as it surely will be too beautiful to only wear once. Good luck!
