The era spanning from the 1790s to the 1820s saw an emphasis on
elegance and simplicity which was motivated by the democratic ideals of the
French Republic but which looked back to classical Greece and Rome for its
fashion inspiration. Waists were high, the directional emphasis was vertical,
and lightweight white fabrics were at the height of fashions which were so
simple that the lady of the time often wore only three garments; a chemise, a
corset and a gown! This was an incredible contrast to the clothing of preceding and
succeeding periods with their horizontal emphases, multiple layers and often
The chemise was the only ladies' undergarment used during the era. (Panties
would not be developed until the 20th century and pantalets were not in vogue
until Victorian times.) The chemise was simply constructed of linen or cotton.
In modern terms its appearance was similar to a long blouse or short
In the early days of the Regency era some women wore tight but lightweight
linen stays which had an effect similar to a modern push-up bra while some
wear no support at all. The ideal was to emulate the "classical" Greek look of
ancient statuary and the older conical shaped stays of the Georgian era didn't do the
trick. But soon new corset designs had caught up in "support" of the latest
The corset was worn over the chemise, was typically made of linen, laced in
the back, was “boned” for firmness and often had a long wooden or whalebone busk in
the front to create the “lift and separate” support necessary for Regency
fashions. A lady wearing a proper Regency style corset will likely carry
herself with flawless posture.
Gown or Dress:
The gown was at least ankle length and had a very high “empire” waist. Some
bodices scooped quite low in front and/or back while others were more moderate.
Some had trains in the rear which were pinned up while dancing. The sleeves
could be short or wrist length as each style was popular at different times.
Even a few sleeveless gowns were seen early in the period. The fabric was usually
light in color with solid white being the favorite of the era. Small patterns
and vertical stripes were also used. Good fabric choices would be lightweight
such as cotton batiste, lightweight cotton muslin or a silk such as charmeuse
that isn’t too stiff but has a good “drape” to it. Sometimes a very light
semi-transparent overdress was worn on top of the main article. White cotton
voile or silk chiffon might be good fabrics for such an option. Trim could be
in the form of piping, metallic braid or ribbon.
The Spencer Jacket was an item peculiar to the Regency period which went well
with the empire waist gown. It was very fitted, had either a standing or flat
collar and could have short or long sleeves. The bottom of the jacket
conformed level with the high waist of the gown. Spencer Jackets were often
made of linen though wool or silk could be used.
Stockings were often silk or cotton and came up to thigh level.
Low shoes similar to modern lace-up ballet slippers were used as were leather,
lace-up shoes with a heel.
Hats and Bonnets:
The poke bonnet was the very popular, signature headwear for ladies of the
period. It was long and scoop shaped, sometimes compared unfavorably to a coal
scuttle in appearance. Critics of the era’s fashions (often older folks who
longed for the “good old days” of the 18th century) represented women in both
satire and cartoon as running about in their underwear (lightweight,
with comically long headwear (poke bonnets) for hiding their faces in!
Straw “cartwheel” hats, often plumed, were very popular both before and into the
1790s and would have a resurgence in popularity in future decades as well. Turbans and
ostrich feathers were quite in vogue for a time, particularly for formal
occasions, as were diadems.
Ladies’ hair was quite fashionable when piled high on the head in a
classically inspired style with hanging wisps, curly bangs and ringlets about
Small purses which shut by means of a drawstring were popular. Jewelry was
worn but for most women tended to be less ostentatious than that of their 18th
century counterparts. For example, a small gold, silver or pewter cross on a short, simple
chain worn around the neck was considered very tasteful and was the height of
fashion during the first two decades of the 19th century. In fact, Jane Austen
herself wore just such an item. Hand painted miniatures, (cameos with
portraits painted on them) were popular as well.
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We Make History
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We Make History
An Introduction to
of the Regency Era
The images featured on this page represent a variety of ladies'
clothing and fashions ranging from the mid 1790s to the 1820s. Among the portraits may be
found commoners, aristocrats and royalty. Some are relatively unknown persons
while others were and are widely known. Included are a
number of those regarded as great beauties in their day such as Queen Louise
of Prussia (widely admired as the most beautiful woman in Europe as well as
the most noble), Madame Recamier and Dolly Madison. Among these paintings may be found the work of
perhaps the two greatest portrait artists of the age, Madame Vigée
Le Brun and Monsieur Jacques-Louis David.
Encouraging Words in Appreciation of the
It has been well acknowledged by persons of discernment
throughout history that of all the visible creation, God has blessed none with
so much beauty as he has woman. This alone would be cause enough for great
admiration, yet when woman adds to physical beauty such treasures as the beauty
of good character; nobility, grace, generosity, affability, and discretion,
along with intelligence, taste, wit and a sense of style, then she is a higher
work of art indeed. It is no hidden thing that women have great influence over
men. A low woman may be able to reduce a low man to the level of a swine. But
a true lady has the ability to lift, inspire and ennoble a good man toward
chivalry, gentlemanly ideals and greatness itself.
Ladies, do polish your physical beauty and allow it to shine,
recognizing that your attire does matter, yet take even greater heed to the development of those qualities which will
bring depth to beauty's luster. When you have done this you will discover
great power in making use of all to inspire the good men around you to higher
levels of their own.
Your fond admirer,