If you have already binge-watched the second series of Bridgerton and it has left you with a craving for drama and regal attire, it might be time to introduce some of these elegant fashion choices into your wardrobe. There’s no need to buy a tailored empire waist gown, instead here are a few nifty suggestions as to how you can go about adding some class to any contemporary wardrobe.

With new research by Fenwick revealing a 186.92% increase in online demand for regency fashion over the past year, based on an analysis of recent UK online search trends, there’s never been a better time to get into regency fashion – maybe with the exception of the actual early eighteen- hundreds.

The study by the UK department store 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.

With the return of the beloved Netflix series, this fashion trend is ready to return once again only this time – we’re not confined to our living rooms and we can turn heads in our opulent textures and statement sleeves.

With no need to go full out, there are endless ways to turn up your style by adding some subtle nods to high society and we have some suggestions to help get you started:

Ruffles on ruffles

A ruffled top, skirt or dress can be dressed up or down as you wish!

Pair a puff sleeve top with a pair of slim jeans and pumps for an understated look or turn it up a notch and wear that ruffled shirt under a corset for more impact. With a cinched in waist, your oversized sleeves are emphasised even further and the combination of the ruffled fabric and structured corset is a modern twist not to be missed.

Alternatively, a dress is a great choice for those who want to save time planning an outfit. 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!

The maxi dress has proven very popular over recent years as it’s got the comfort of basically pyjamas, and it looks chic as anything.

Corset silhouette

Corsets have been worn for centuries to highlight and accentuate the female form –  but gone are the days of discomfort and restricted breathing!

Contemporary corset tops offer the look and structure of a corset without the rigid fit and there are many different styles 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, corset tops can be worn on their own, under a fancy dress, over a crisp white shirt or even over your favourite floral dress – bringing that flawless figure and regency touch into more than one outfit.

And if a corset top isn’t your style, you could try introducing the look by wearing a corset-style belt instead – or using the corset top as a support layer.

Accessories galore

Accessories are an opportunity to have some fun and experiment. It’s all about pearls, jewels, lace and feather trims – don’t hold back!

Headpieces are a great place to start if you want to try something new in the accessory department. 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.

Not only do accessories come in all shapes and sizes and textures – they also come in all prices. You can change the whole look of an outfit with the right accessory and it doesn’t have to break the bank. It’s a win win!