Dearest Reader,
Bridgerton is coming back to Netflix for a second season! This is so exciting and too much for my historical heart to handle, not to mention the fashionista side of my heart. When watching Bridgerton, I do not know who to pay attention to, the Duke with his smolder, or the Featheringtons and their impressive Regency Era wear? Although their outfits are rather tacky, these high waisted gowns and the feathers in their hair need to make a comeback this year, and here is how:
High Waisted Dresses:
Although the cap sleeves are not my favorite, the dresses in Bridgerton and other period pieces like Pride and Prejudice are rather flattering. These dresses were often made with lighter fabrics so they were easy to move in. The empire waist style, what I call the “high waist”, hits right below your bra and just accentuates your shoulders. I would suggest a dress like this for people with a square body type. If worn right, you can bring out a more defined hourglass figure.
Modern Take:
Modern versions of these dresses offer a romantic addition to your closet! In my take, I would wear one of these dresses casually with a pair of Nike Air Force Ones, ruffled crew socks, and a patterned bandana in my hair. Tie it all together with some pearl jewelry to bring out the vintage look!
Urban Outfitters Billabong Secret Garden Mini Dress (originally $55)(https://images.urbndata.com/is/image/UrbanOutfitters/64005390_237_e?$xlarge$&fit=constrain&fmt=webp&qlt=80&wid=640)
Women’s Nike Air Force 1 in White (originally $100) (https://static.nike.com/a/images/t_PDP_864_v1/f_auto,b_rgb:f5f5f5/f094af40-f82f-4fb9-a246-e031bf6fc411/air-force-1-07-womens-shoes-GCkPzr.png)
Urban Outfitters Ruffle Ankle Sock 3-Pack (originally $20) (https://images.urbndata.com/is/image/UrbanOutfitters/54968573_010_b?$xlarge$&fit=constrain&fmt=webp&qlt=80&wid=640 )
Forever 21 Bandana (originally $5.99) (https://www.forever21.com/dw/image/v2/BFKH_PRD/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-f21-master-catalog/default/dw07e94f9c/1_front_750/00455804-04.jpg?sw=500&sh=750)
Square Necklines:
In recent fashion, I have noticed the fall of the sweetheart and the rise of the square. And, in my opinion, necklines such as the sweetheart are outdated. Square and scoop necklines are easier to sew and they bring out the “cottagecore” lifestyle that we all want to live.
Modern Take:
Exciting news! Many different modern retailers carry shirts and dresses with square necklines. In my take, I would pair a simple square neckline shirt, I usually wear white ones, with some baggy ripped jeans. Take this whole outfit to the next level with Doc Martens of your choosing and an oversized jacket! Perfect for the Seattle scene while still channeling your inner Elizabeth Bennet.
Levi’s Plus Size Cotton Joella Printed Square-Neck Top (originally $59.50)
ASOS DESIGN Curve high rise slouchy mom jeans in stonewash with rips (originally $50.00)
Pac Sun John Galt Green Full-Zip Hoodie (originally $42.00)
Free People Dr. Martens 1461 Bex Oxfords (originally $130.00)
Little Jackets:
This one may be a little controversial but I have to say it: I am in love with the half-jackets that the women wore during this time. I think that modern society should bring them back. They are functional, but they don’t cover up the whole fit. Perfect for a nice promenade around the ton with your suitor.
Modern Take:
These cropped puffer jackets are a perfect dupe for the Regency Era style! Not to mention that they are an ode to the ’80s as well! To stay away from the vibrant, teased-hair style from just 40 years ago, tone down the color pallet to neutrals such as beige, white, cream, and black. Pair the jacket with a chunky knit sweater and some black jeans. Finish the look with some black Converse and you are ready to find some suitors!
Hollister Girls Corduroy Puffer Jacket (originally $99.95)
https://img.hollisterco.com/is/image/anf/KIC_344-1640-0911-400_prod1?policy=product-large
H&M Oversized Turtleneck Sweater (originally $29.99)
Hollister Girls ULTRA HIGH-RISE BLACK PATCHWORK DAD JEANS (originally $64.95)
https://img.hollisterco.com/is/image/anf/KIC_355-1146-6184-975_prod1?policy=product-large
CONVERSE Run Star Hike Women’s Shoes (originally $109.99)
So, dearest reader, your time has come to set out into the world, fashionably dressed, with a new sense of style that will have all heads turning. With my hopeful suggestions, you will be named “The Diamond of the First Water” and will secure an eligible match. Unless dating isn’t your thing. Then you will be able to impress all your friends – and maybe your opponents.