01 Apr Bridgerton is Back for Season 2, Let’s Revisit Regencycore for 2022

Bridgerton is back for a new season and apparently, people are excited. I wasn’t going to watch it, because quite frankly, Netflix is pumping out big hitters like nobody’s business and my list is already too overwhelming for one person to handle. But of course, then I got to writing this article and I am royally back in the mood for a little Regencycore. Top Boy will have to wait. Whilst the lovely Duke of Hastings is sorely missed from our screens, we do still have the fashion dear readers. This throwback trend (go long Rachel, really long), is a heady mix of rich and lustrous fabrics, corsets, opera gloves, fancy florals, and OTT accessories. Think wily headwear, feathers, and a healthy dose of opulence, and who couldn’t do with a touch of opulence here and there? Basically, it’s a maximalist’s dream and there is a lot to work with. If you don’t see yourself popping down Tescos in a full empire waist gown and feathered headpiece, the regency feel can still be achieved with subtle references that will make you feel royally ready for high society. Or at least, observing it from your sofa whilst eating your caramelised onion hummus from Tescos. Same same. Anyway, let’s take a look at a few easy ways to nod to the mood without looking like you’re attending some sort of regency era reenactment. Unless you are? Then please send an invite my way, I need to get some wear out of the opera gloves I convinced myself to buy.

Fancy Dresses

Ok, so one might feel a little OTT rolling around town in a full-on empire line, maxi gown, but who doesn’t love a puff sleeve and a little volume? Or how about a romantic regency print or a bit of corsetry? Check out these gorgeous little numbers before you decide.

This high neck, ruffled head-turner in neon pink is a thoroughly modern way to nod to the trend. Batsheva is a good option for romantic ruffles, high necks, and volume. The Nodaleto Bulla Babies also really work for this look if you needed another excuse to covet them.

Selkie has you covered for all your modern day princess needs. This one is just waiting to be flounced around in.

Made for twirling (wear your big pants). This gorgeous print is collaged from the work of William Killburn, whose watercolour designs are housed at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. So, some bonus and fairly timely historical references for your regency look.

Keep it casual in black linen but go big on the romantic sleeves. This shirred bodice fitted under the bust is reminiscent of the empire line dresses seen in the show. The hair bow here is perfect low-key Bridgerton vibes too.

Another perfect silhouette for a modern take on regencycore. The romantic ruffles have a wonderfully retro feel and the pale blue is very Daphne.

So I know black is not a favourite of the Bridgerton gang, but it doesn’t mean we can’t get the most out of this staple colour. The empire waistline, tactile linen-blend cloqué fabrication, and volume are just dreamily on theme. Buy now and wear forever. If you aren’t into black, this dreamy dress also comes in a romantic white, and there is a similar option in the subtlest mint green.

Well this little mini would certainly have caused a scandal back in the 1800’s. Luckily it’s 2022 so let your skin be free and enjoy the little hints of romantic regency style, via the floral print, bustier and bows on this Reformation sweetheart of a summer dress. Pair with pearls, flats, and a picnic basket.

If all else fails go for Bridgerton Blue. This puff sleeve, wrap-effect midi dress looks incredibly easy to wear and flattering with the soft, on-trend drape. This is one of those dresses you could easily work for day or evening. A perfect wedding guest candidate.

This sunny yellow jacquard dress in an on-trend maxi length, subtly whispers on the theme in a very good way. It would be a wonderfully head-turning option for a wedding too.

I mean, it’s a sexy show. Channel boudoir vibes in this luxurious silk maxi dress for a head-turning evening look, ideally paired with regal pearls and demure glances around the room. Or contrast the silky texture with some feathers for high-impact glamour.

Opulent Accessories

Think pearls, crystals, feathers, and bows. Oh and of course gloves. Yeah, the accessories are fun with a capital F.

Simone Rocha is your go-to for luxurious regencycore accessories with opulent touches of pearls and crystals. This beautiful bag will elevate any outfit to royal status.

If you aren’t feeling a full-on feathered headpiece, reach for a bejewelled headband.

Pearls are essential to the look and so is this initial earring in my life as of now.

This is going to make frankly anything look perfectly prim and regal.

If you aren’t feeling forking out for a crystal-encrusted choker, this subtle moonstone beauty can be worn all day, any day. Just add some matching drop earrings for subtle regency vibes.

A Simone Rocha Crystal & Pearl Hairclip has never had such a perfect moment. If your budget is a little smaller, Etsy is a hive of pearly, girly, and wonderfully Bridgerton hair

accessories, like this little selection.

If you want to be authentic, Dents gloves were apparently spotted in the actual show. Roll them down for a more chill vibe, if there is such a thing with opera gloves. Long gloves are trending though, so pretty soon we may all be rolling around up to the elbow in these elegant wonders. Nothing better than keeping our arms warm and silky and fingertips able to check surfaces for dust at any second IMO.

I mean, how cute?

Feathers in your hair might seem OTT (or does it?), but a bright green feathered bag just seems like a good idea to me.

Fit for a queen, this choker is all you need to up the ante on your outfit.

Tops

Corsets, ruching, high necks and billowing sleeves all nod to the trend and are super easy to style for every day too.

A corset is a bang-on-trend way to reference Bridgerton style. This angelic white cotton number is a perfect combination of innocence and sass.

Skip the need for any further embellishment with this frothy, elevated T-shirt from Simone Rocha.

A top fit for frolicking in the fields if I ever saw one. This romantic laced-up number looks great paired with denim and could be easily dressed up or down.

For warmer days reach for this frilled floral number, put a ribbon in your hair, and find a shady tree under which to read a book and ponder life.

Sister Jane is another brand that has you covered on this aesthetic. A beautiful headband is a great addition to this sweet blouse. Check out the rather lovely puff sleeve maxi dress too if you are into this delicate floral.

Pair this simple but sassy bustier top with a glitzy choker, some embellished shoes and you’re good to go.

Do not miss the little bows at the back of this delightfully Bridgerton blouse. What a colour too.

The shirring under the bust, romantic ruffles, and square neckline give this pink Staud top just the right amount of boldly hued flounce.

Pure Romance.

Dainty Shoes

Demure ballet flats were probably the order of the day, but if you want to zhuzh things up, girly bows, an embellished ankle, and sumptuous satin are fit for a twirl on the dance floor. Oh and feathers, don’t forget the feathers.

These were made for twirling and in fact leaping, you could even leap across the dance floor in these. I mean, if you were a ballet dancer.

If you desire a tiny touch of bling on your ballet flats, the delicate ankle chain on this slightly more sturdy leather pair is a delight.

They loved a bit of Prada back in the 1800’s. Mary Janes are having a moment and are very Bridgerton.

If your budget doesn’t quite stretch to the Nodaleto Platforms….

I mean, these probably aren’t an entirely accurate depiction of what Regency-era ladies would have attired their feet in back in the day, but they are definitely fit for any Bridgerton ball.

For the true fans, check out the Malone Souliers x Bridgerton collaboration. These are really rather fabulous.

These are also a rather lovely option and with a less intimidatingly high heel.

The gorgeous floral print, satin, and crystal-embellished ankle buckle make these a stand-out choice.

If all this frivolity has left you thirsty for more, check out our article on the most fun fashion trends to get on board with now, next….