NETFLIX smash Bridgerton returned to screens this week triggering a boom in demand for Regency-style fashion.
Abby McHale reveals how to wear looks inspired by the super-saucy period drama . . .
Jewellery
IF there’s one thing the cast of Bridgerton never scrimp on, it is jewellery.
From big earrings and chunky necklaces to bold bracelets and rings, the characters really show off their wealth.
Luckily, you don’t have to break the bank to hop on board this trend – right now the high street is bursting with affordable Bridgerton-style bling.
This necklace from Primark gives a regal feel with its pearl and initial detailing, while these shoulder-skimming butterfly earrings from Zara will make a statement.
Puff sleeves
BIG sleeves are a key look for Bridgerton, but this series it seems they have ballooned in size.
Penelope’s comical older sisters, Prudence and Philippa, sport sleeves so big they’re in danger of taking the furniture with them whenever they walk past.
Puff sleeves are very much on trend on the high street, too – albeit in a more subtle way.
This mini dress from Abercrombie gives a nod to the look and gets extra points for its Bridgerton-esque floral design.
If you want to try the look for the first time, a simple top like this one from Next is a good place to start.
The sleeves have a hint of puffiness without being OTT and you can wear it with jeans for a simple but stylish look.
Florals
FLORALS go hand in hand with spring and are featured heavily throughout the new series.
These pretty prints are timeless, so no matter what item you buy, it can be a wardrobe staple for years to come.
Searches for fashion with floral detailing are up 122 per cent – and there are plenty of options to choose from.
Try a floral midi skirt, like this one from Mango. It will look great paired with a white blouse or T-shirt and finished off with either trainers for a casual look or heels for a more glam occasion.
If you want to give florals a go but aren’t a fan of the pastel shades, this monochrome quilted jacket from Tu at Sainsbury’s is a great light jacket for this time of year.
Corsets
THERE were plenty of sexy, waist-cinching corsets on display in the first two series of Bridgerton – and it’s business as usual for series three.
Searches for “contemporary corsets” have shot up by 74 per cent in the past 60 days, according to fashion app LTK – no doubt boosted by Kim Kardashian’s Met Gala attire this month which gave her a 19-inch waist.
While the one worn by Kim and those on Bridgerton look like they could cut off your circulation, high street styles offer a little more wiggle room.
This cute satin top from Pretty Little Thing has a zip at the back, rather than lace-up detailing, making it much easier to wear.
For a more understated look, there are some great bodice-style dresses available.
This white one from Marks & Spencer, which has strong Bridgerton vibes, has been a big hit for the brand.
Nightwear
BRIDGERTON-style fashion doesn’t just stop at daywear as the show has become famous for its saucy bedroom scenes, too. Now F&F at Tesco is selling Bridgerton-style nighties and pyjamas.
The range features pastel and floral designs including a wisteria-print two-piece so you can look regal for bedtime.
Primark also has a great pair of satin, floral pyjamas. The shirt and long trousers are designed to sleep in, but they could easily be worn as separates while out and about.
- Floral pyjama top, £12; bottoms, £12, both Primark – buy here
- Satin slip, £22.50, F&F at Tesco – buy here
Satin
IT is the first time that Bridgerton has been released during sunny weather and lightweight satin features heavily throughout.
An ideal material for this time of year, there are plenty of statement satin pieces available on the high street.
This pair of satin trousers from F&F at Tesco are a steal and, being lighter than denim, are a great alternative to jeans during the warmer months.
George at Asda’s latest G21 collection also features lots of pretty pastel satin pieces. This affordable top is great if you’re keen to channel a Bridgerton look.
Bows
BRIDGERTON fashion comes with an abundance of frills and embellishments – and searches for pieces with bows are up 93 per cent in the last week alone.
Hair bows are an easy and affordable way to hop on board with this trend.
This Toile de Jouy bow from Cider is the perfect addition to any springtime look.
Some may think bows are purely for the Gen Z crowd – especially after the “coquette-core” trend, which celebrates all things pink and girly, took over TikTok this year. But that doesn’t have to be the case.
For a more grown-up take, this asymmetrical dress from H&M is perfect.
The bow on the shoulder adds an extra detail, while the dress itself will wow at any summer party.
Green
THE new season sees actress Nicola Coughlan take centre stage as Penelope Featherington – and rightly so.
Previously, she has been dressed in citrus colours, but the garish yellow shades worn by her and the Featherington family are seen as tacky.
With Penelope now stepping out of the shadows, she is shown at The Modiste dress shop in the first episode, desperate for an image overhaul.
Revealing why she’ll now be decked out in more classic hues, costume designer John Glaser says: “The colour is green, darker than she’s ever worn, and there’s copper in the dress because it helps to blend in with her hair colour.”
This green dress from H&M gives a nod to the Bridgerton trend with its silky fabric and empire line cut.
Or, if you want to inject some subtle emerald hints into your look, then these strappy-heeled sandals from New Look are the perfect choice.
Mary Janes
UNDERNEATH the ’Tons floor-sweeping gowns and skirts lie heeled Mary-Jane shoes.
The strapped shoes are huge this season thanks to a heavy influence from catwalk designers such as Chanel and Alaia and they are synonymous with regency-core, with flat styles being the highest in demand.
According to Google, searches for Mary-Janes are up 50 per cent and ballet shoes up 60 per cent this week alone.
From soft satins to brightly coloured style that will inject colour to any outfit, they are the easiest way to update any of your outfits this season.
And the best bit? They’re comfortable.
I’m in awe of Nicola’s confidence
PENELOPE Featherington is stepping out of the shadows as gossip queen Lady Whistledown for series three – and I am here for it.
As a mid-size woman myself, it is great to see a representative leading lady in the form of Nicola Coughlan, 37, especially in a romantic series.
Penelope’s style comes into its own this season, with shades and styles that really flatter her.
Of her more sexy wardrobe, costume designer John Glaser said: “We tried, because of what her character is doing, to show as much skin as possible.”
Away from Bridgerton, Nicola’s style is one I’m in awe of.
Wearing figure-hugging, bust-boosting outfits, she really knows how to dress her body.
I am someone who often shies away from this style of dressing, but she is giving me the confidence to experiment more.