Dearest gentle reader, as you embark on your 20th rewatch of Bridgerton,  you may find yourself wondering how to bring the glamour and excitement of Bridgerton fashion into your everyday life.

The answer my friend is simple and lies in embracing a Bridgerton style wardrobe.

Regency dress has stood the test of time, influencing the shapes, patterns and materials we see today. You may think that to wear the style in 2025 you would need to be heading to a fancy dress party, but you are most mistaken. 

What Is Regency Dress?

If you’ve ever wondered how to dress like Bridgerton, Regency dress describes the clothing style popular amongst the upper class, or ‘the ton’, of the late 1700s and early 1800s. The ton were the trendsetters of the day - 19th-century influencers if you will. With money to spend freely, they used fashion to display wealth and importance, especially at society events and soirées. 

The clothing of this era was designed to impress - Women’s styles were extravagant, with accessories for every outfit and weeks of planning for just one ball. Waistlines were often very high, and dresses featured low necklines. 

Conversely, men embraced simpler styles where cut and tailoring took precedence as an indicator of quality and wealth. 

How Can You Add a Touch Of Regency Dress to Modern Day Outfits?

Statement Accessories

Pearls are an essential addition to any Bridgerton inspired outfit,  evoking the timeless elegance of the era. Though traditionally associated with brides, pearls have become increasingly popular in recent years. Layering them with modern, silver or gold jewellery gives pearls a modern look. Perfect with chunky knitwear or even spring dresses, pearls add understated elegance.

Regency accessories often extended to hairstyles, with up-dos adorned with jewelled hair pieces, pins and tiaras. For a modern-day regency spin add embellished hair pins to your evening look for an effortless touch of glamour. 

Corsets

Corset tops are key to modern Bridgerton dress. Now when we say corsets we certainly don’t mean the suffocating underwear of the 19th century. Back then corsets were often made with whalebone and designed to create a smaller waist and enhanced bust. Luckily for us, fashion has come a long way since then. 

Today’s corset tops offer the same flattering shape but in a much more wearable form. Paired with jeans or trousers, the fitted shape flatters any figure and adds a gentle touch of regency style to an evening outfit. For a contemporary twist, a corset belt worn over a shirt or dress can cinch the waist and add fascinating detail to your outfit. 

Regency Silhouettes

The empire-waist is synonymous with a Bridgerton look. Dresses were high-waisted, often with low necklines and intricate detailing creating an elongated and elegant silhouette. This is often echoed today in high-waisted jeans and trousers paired with fitted tops. This combination creates a flattering shape while paying homage to the regency fashion. 

For an extra nod to the era, try empire-waist dresses with flowing skirts or layered embellishments. These designs bring a sense of grace and elegance to any occasion. 

Puff Sleeves

Puff sleeves are a hallmark of Regency fashion. Flattering, fun and fabulous, they suit anyone and everyone. Pair puff sleeve dresses with trainers for a modern spin on Bridgerton outfit ideas. 

Gloves

In the 19th century, both men and women wore gloves as a mark of class. Opera gloves were an essential part of women’s evening attire, a trend we have seen returning to modern fashion.  Many of the met-gala fashionistas - perhaps our modern-day ton -  incorporated gloves into their impressive outfits. 

For an accessible take on this style, try shorter loves in lace or leather on cooler days or add drama to your formal evening look with long gloves. 

Fabrics

Women's regency fashion favoured lightweight fabrics such as silk, chiffon and muslin, which allowed graceful draping and movement - particularly during those choreographed dances. In modern styling, you often see these materials in flowy blouses, skirts or dresses. 

Layering

Layering is an easy way to bring a Regency-inspired look into your wardrobe without it feeling over the top. A flowing midi-dress paired with a tailored blazer or even a cosy cardigan works brilliantly. 

Colours

Events in regency Britain were awash in soft pastels, white and muted tones. White symbolises purity and elegance, while soft blues and pinks were considered feminine. Lavender and purple were seen as regal and represented status. Incorporating these colours into your wardrobe is a subtle way to bring that Bridgerton style to your everyday look. Look for delicate floral prints or subtle embroidery to add interest to your outfit. 

Bridgerton Style For Men

The era's style saw men embrace a stripped-back polished style with tailoring taking priority. Fitted coats, high-waisted trousers and slick accessories were popular amongst gentlemen and fabrics were often rich and heavy including velvet and wool.  

Everyday Bridgerton Look

Band-collar or grandad-collar shirts paired with tailored trousers add sophistication to an everyday look with a subtle nod to the Bridgerton style favoured by men. Layering with cravats or scarves is reminiscent of the era for a bold look. Regency outerwear such as long coats and cropped jackets is an easy way to bring the Bridgerton look to your everyday style.

Formal Wear

Regency-era evening wear featured dark colours, such as midnight blue and charcoal. Tailored blazers and velvet waistcoats paired with slim trousers are a timeless style that works for any formal occasion. Double-breasted blazers are particularly reminiscent of the era. Men’s accessories such as signet rings and pocket squares, are a brilliant way to add a regency touch and elegance to your outfit.