Bridgerton costumes: How accurate are they compared with real regency-era fashion?

As Bridgerton continues to shape pop culture conversations, attention has once again turned to one of the series’ most striking elements — its costumes. While the Netflix drama is set during the early 19th-century Regency era, fashion historians note that its wardrobe is inspired by history rather than bound by it, reflecting the show’s deliberate blend of period drama and modern fantasy.

The Regency era, which spanned roughly from 1795 to 1837, marked a significant shift in fashion following the French Revolution. Clothing became lighter, silhouettes softened, and ornate styles gave way to cleaner lines. Bridgerton draws heavily from this period, particularly through the frequent use of Empire-line gowns, characterized by high waistlines just below the bust. This silhouette was central to women’s fashion of the time and remains one of the show’s most historically accurate choices.

In reality, these dresses were typically worn with simple cotton undergarments, along with shawls or fichus used to moderate low necklines. The series often omits these layers, opting instead for a sleeker look that aligns with contemporary television aesthetics.

Men’s fashion in the show also reflects genuine Regency influences. Tailcoats, fitted trousers and structured jackets mirror the refined style popularized by figures such as Beau Brummell, who emphasized elegance, cleanliness and precision tailoring. While the silhouettes are largely faithful, the overall presentation is heightened to suit dramatic storytelling.

Colour plays a major role in the show’s visual identity. Although Regency clothing did include brighter shades than many modern viewers expect, Bridgerton amplifies these tones through bold pastels and jewel colours used to differentiate families and personalities. This approach departs from everyday historical wear but supports the series’ symbolic and emotional storytelling.

Accessories seen in the show are similarly stylized. During the Regency period, extravagant feathered headpieces were fashionable among the upper class, sometimes reaching dramatic heights. While Bridgerton references this trend, it scales back the extremes for practicality and visual balance.

The portrayal of Queen Charlotte also draws from historical tradition. In real life, royal women often favored older court dress styles with structured silhouettes and formal underlayers. The show reflects this distinction through the queen’s elaborate wardrobe, though it is refined with modern design sensibilities.

Costume experts emphasize that Bridgerton was never intended to serve as a historically exact portrayal of Regency fashion. Instead, its wardrobe captures the spirit of the era while merging it with contemporary fabrics, colours and design choices. The result is a visually rich aesthetic that prioritizes emotion, character and fantasy over strict historical documentation.