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With the return of the beloved Netflix series Bridgerton, the fashion trend Regency core is ready to return once again only this time – we’re not confined to our living rooms and we can prance around in public in our opulent textures and statement sleeves.
New research by Fenwick Department Store reveals a 186.92% increase in online demand for regency fashion over the past year, based on an analysis of recent UK online search trends. The study highlights a considerable popularity spike in the lead up to the second season of the Netflix hit, Bridgerton, that aired Friday 25th of March, with searches for regency dresses up 175% since December.
If you have already binge-watched the second series of Bridgerton and it has left you wanting more, it might be time to introduce some regency fashion into your wardrobe.
Although you might not fancy slipping on an empire-waisted gown, there are endless ways to turn up your style by adding some subtle nods to high society and we have some ideas to get you started:
Puff sleeves and ruffles
These pieces can be dressed up or down depending on how brave you’re feeling. Pair a puff sleeve top with a pair of jeans and pumps for an understated look or turn it up a notch and wear under a corset for more impact. With a cinched in waist, your puff sleeves are emphasised even further and the combination of the ruffled fabric and structured corset is a modern twist not to be missed.
Alternatively, if pairing separates is too much of a chore, a dress might be the way to go. With spring on the way, embrace the good weather with a multi-layered maxi dress – a great way to get as many ruffles as possible into one outfit with minimal effort!
From left to right: DAY Birger et Mikkelsen Cynthia Puff Sleeve Maxi Dress, £250; The Vampire’s Wife The Villanelle Dress, £695; DAY Birger et Mikkelsen Colette Coated Cotton Midi Dress, £190
Corset tops
Underwear as outerwear is all the rage and there are plenty of stunning corset tops out there to choose from. Whether you go all out with an intricate lace-up number or an easier-to-manage zipped version, these structural tops will give you curves in all the right places.
With so much versatility, these tops can be worn on their own, over a crisp white shirt or even over your favourite floral dress – bringing that regency touch into more than one outfit.
And if a corset top just isn’t your thing, you could try introducing the look by wearing a corset-style belt instead!
Statement accessories
Accessories are where you can really start having some fun. It’s all about pearls, jewels, lace and feather trims – the more the merrier!
Headpieces are a great place to start if you want to try something new. Ranging from dainty jewelled clips to pearl-covered tiaras, these are sure to take your outfit to new regency heights. Add a feather-trimmed bag and a pair of satin gloves and you’ve got everything you need to be the belle of the ball.
What next…?
The fashion world really is your oyster when it comes to this trend. Select items that you love and that suit your unique style and you’re sure to find the perfect way to introduce a little slice of opulent luxury into your wardrobe.
Experiment with different variations, starting with just a key accessory and building up to a full Regency core outfit. You can get the look without completely overhauling your wardrobe by just adding accessories. Have fun!