Bridgerton-Inspired Fashion for Your Inner Duchess

The release of Netflix’s hit series Bridgerton took social media by storm and launched onto our screens an influx of elegant, luxe fashion that made us swoon over the royal lookbook. All of the gorgeous wardrobe ensembles that graced the leading ladies of the series boasted enviable elegance, femininity, and charm. But because College Station lacks a Modiste to the likes of Madame Delacroix, and certainly handsome princes and posh balls, we’ve brainstormed inspiration in the meantime to satisfy your inner duchess. 

The show’s wardrobe channeled the fashion of Regency-era London in which the story is set (circa 1820), and sported elaborate gowns and suiting with no lack of attention to detail. Whether you choose to sport the cool-toned pastels seen on the Bridgertons or bright floral frocks that are a popular choice among the Featherington family, you can easily rock a royal look with the use of a few fashion components compiled below. 

Puff sleeves: Nearly every ensemble of leading-lady Daphne featured puff sleeves. The dainty poof adds visual interest to any outfit, as it accentuates the neckline and arms. This soft detail is easy to find in current style trends, and also simple to style into a chic outfit. In true Bridgerton style, opt for pastels, and accessorize minimally with heels and jewelry. 

Empire Waist: A trend exceptionally common among the ladies in the show is the empire waist. This style of clothing where a dress or top has a fitted bodice until just below the bust was a staple of the Regency era Bridgerton is set in and would make an elegant addition to your own wardrobe. A top or dress with this silhouette will make for a beautiful, ultra-flattering outfit. 

Corsets: Seen mostly on the older women of the show, corset waist tops and dresses portray opulence and enhance one’s figure. A very prevalent trend at the moment, both with and without sleeves, a corset top will have you looking noticeably elegant and regal. Try pairing your corset top with a flowy skirt and pumps for the full look.

Embroidery/Applique: The endless stream of frocks adorned with intricate embroidery and floral appliques had us in love with the age-old feminine charm they offer. This is an element that can work on nearly any clothing item. Whether you buy embroidered or applique items or refresh an existing piece in your wardrobe, you can rock the dainty detail in an infinite number of ways. 

Vests: While vests are seen frequently in the wardrobe of the men on the show, we believe that anyone can rock them in an ensemble. The elaborate embroidery and luxe fabrics that appear in the series boast endless poise. Add a chic vest to your wardrobe for a vintage, put-together look that’ll make you the talk of the next Lady Whistledown. Try styling them over a neutral turtleneck paired with your favorite jeans or skirt.

Statement Accessories: The show’s wardrobe certainly did not shy away from a bold accessory, and neither should you. Channel the early English women and their love of a bold hat, scarves, and extravagant jewels. Have fun with a bold rhinestone necklace or pearl hairpiece, or make use of a silk or velvet sash or scarf to add a luxe pop of color. The sky's the limit!

  So there you have it—just a few simple items to look for in clothing that’ll have you looking and feeling fit to meet the Queen. No matter which of these looks you choose to rock, wear it boldly as the Bridgertons do.

Written by Ceci Vail & Megan Bonsall, Photography by Erica Casteneda, Design by Lili Sullivan, Media by Alexis Bracht