Following the fairly recent successes of Emily in Paris and The Queen’s Gambit on Netflix, Bridgerton is one of the latest series to make its rounds on the internet. Produced by Shonda Rhimes based on the eponymous book by Julia Quinn, the period drama is set during the Regency period in England, revolving around the Bridgerton family and their quest to find love in London’s competitive marriage market.
In case you’ve missed it, part of Bridgerton’s charm – aside from the chemistry between protagonists Daphne Bridgerton and Simon Basset – is the wardrobe of regal gowns and costumes. According to the show’s costume house, it took 238 artisans to work on the elaborate pieces worn by the cast, which includes tulle dresses, capes and vests with beadwork, floral prints and heavy embellishment.
While they may be a little farfetched for 21st century commoners, there are Spring 2021 runway pieces that mirror Bridgerton’s style which one can actually pull off today. Here are a few of our picks. (Disclaimer: minor spoilers ahead.)
Daphne Bridgerton’s powder blue garden dress
Daphne’s wardrobe consisted mostly of blue and white throughout the season, and this semi-sheer number is one of our favourites. The latter evening gown from Marchesa’s Spring 2021 collection is no less drool-worthy either, with its elegant silhouette and feather embroidery.
Eloise Bridgerton’s presentation dress for Daphne’s debut
Eloise doesn’t care much for dolling up in ball gowns, but she did make an exception for Daphne’s debut at the start of the season. We’ll gladly make an exception with this Ulla Johnson floral frock, anyone hosting a debutante ball here?
Marina Thompson’s yellow ball gown
After staying away from public eye due to a certain “predicament”, Marina made a striking return to the season in a bright yellow number. We can imagine making a return to fashion events in this beautiful Zimmerman frock once things are safer, too.
Philippa Featherington’s pale green ball gown
Just as the Bridgerton’s household colours are blue, the Featheringtons favour greens, yellows and oranges. Here’s Phillipa sporting a pale green number towards the end of the season, somewhat resembling a dress from the Erdem Spring 2021 runway.
Prudence Featherington’s orange ball gown
Next to her, Prudence chanelled an orange floral print gown that’s not unlike the modern day maxi from Rodarte’s Spring 2021 collection.
Penelope Featherington’s yellow ball gown
Meanwhile, the youngest Featherington is seen in the usual sunny shade of yellow, with intricate embroidery adding an opulent touch. If you do without the details, this minimal Greta Constantine dress is a stunner.
Daphne Bridgerton’s blue day dress
Not all the costumes in the show are ornate and embellished; Daphne’s understated yet elegant day dress is one example. Self Portrait’s striped maxi serves just as well for a modern day take.
Lady Danbury’s purple party dress
You’ll see Lady Danbury mostly in deep hues of red and purple throughout the season. One of her more memorable outfits is the cape-like gown she wore to the Hasting’s garden party, featuring bold shoulder details that match her dominant personality. Likewise, this sequinned Naeem Khan gown would make anyone look like a force to be reckoned with.
Queen Charlotte’s yellow costume
Unlike the other Ladies, Queen Charlotte could wear any shade under the sun. This royal yellow costume particularly stands out, as did the floral-embroidered bridal piece closing the Moschino Spring 2021 show.
Daphne Bridgerton's diamond ball gown
When not in blue, Daphne can be seen in neutral tones of white, cream and blush – like this diamond-adorned gown she wore to one of the many balls hosted by the ton. Anna Sui has a spring piece that’s just as pretty, minus the extravagant diamonds.
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Photos: Netflix and respective brands