Over the summer, I found myself rewatching Bridgerton on Netflix—again! I just couldn’t help myself. The show’s stunning costumes pulled me back in and I ended up going down a rabbit hole researching Regency-era fashion. I knew the show would take some liberties in its portrayal of the era’s style (it is Netflix, after all), but I was curious to see how closely the costumes aligned with the historical reality.

The Regency era officially spans from 1811 to 1820, during the period when King George IV acted as Regent while his father, King George III, was unwell. However, in fashion circles, it often refers to a broader window from about 1795 to 1837 — a time that saw a complete transformation in clothing styles, sandwiched between the more ornate Georgian period and the restrictive Victorian era.

One of the most defining features of Regency fashion was the shift toward a more relaxed silhouette. Inspired by the classical ideals of Ancient Greece and Rome, Regency clothing embraced a simpler, more natural look. Gone were the elaborate, heavy gowns of the Georgian era, replaced by lighter, flowing fabrics with a higher waistline, known as the “empire” waist. This style became a hallmark of the period, sitting just below the bust and creating an elongated, graceful silhouette.

This higher waistline was revolutionary in more ways than one. Not only did it provide a softer, more comfortable alternative to the restrictive corsets of earlier periods, but it also allowed women greater freedom of movement. Instead of the rigid corsets that shaped waists into unnatural silhouettes, women of the Regency period wore “stays”—a kind of corsetry that was boned but softer, offering support without the extreme constriction. The shift to stays was a subtle yet significant change that allowed for a more natural posture and a less restricted lifestyle.

Interestingly, the term “empire waist” actually has its roots in France, directly influenced by the shift from the French kingdom to an empire under Napoleon. Fashion trends from Paris were hugely influential at the time, with none other than Empress Joséphine Bonaparte herself playing a key role in popularising this style. She brought back the use of intricate jewelry, including tiaras and statement necklaces, which complemented the simplicity of the dresses by adding a touch of regal elegance. Her influence helped cement the empire waist as a symbol of femininity and grace.

What’s fascinating about the Regency era is that it sits like a sartorial blip between two very different styles. Before this period, Georgian fashion was all about extravagant layers, panniers, and powdered wigs. After it, the Victorian era took over with its emphasis on modesty, heavier fabrics, and much stricter silhouettes. The Regency period, by contrast, feels almost like a breath of fresh air—less about rigid structure and more about embracing a sense of ease and fluidity.

Watching Bridgerton, I can’t help but notice how the show’s costuming captures this spirit, even if it occasionally veers into fantasy. The vibrant colors and bold patterns used in the show aren’t entirely accurate to the era, which favored lighter and more muted tones, but they do reflect the whimsical, larger-than-life world that the series creates. The designers took inspiration from the period’s silhouettes while allowing themselves creative freedom to amplify the drama and flair — a choice that aligns with the show’s modern, inclusive take on Regency society.

Overall, diving into the world of Regency fashion has given me a deeper appreciation for both the historical context and the artistic liberties that Bridgerton takes. It’s a reminder that while period dramas often bend the rules of historical accuracy, they can still spark a genuine interest in the real-life styles and trends that shaped an era.

I can’t wait to keep exploring more hidden corners of fashion history—who knows what else I’ll uncover during my next Netflix binge!