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Photo: Rikki Snyder / Illustration: The Spruce
Whether you’re obsessed (like we are) or just a casual tonsmember watching, it’s a widely accepted fact that Bridgerton is very visually appealing. Get your minds out of the gutter—we’re talking about the set design.
Lucky for us, as the steamy Netflix romance gains popularity, its signature aesthetic is also on the rise. We’ve most definitely come down with a major case of lust for all things Regencycore.
Regencycore is an aesthetic or trend based on silhouettes and signature pieces from the United Kingdom’s Regency era, which ran from approximately 1811 to 1820. The era was marked by years of elegance and achievements in fine arts and architecture.
In an effort to figure out how to most effectively incorporate this trend into our own homes, we turned to the experts to find out which elements are an absolute must in any royal-respecting room.
Wallpaper—On Every Wall
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“Wallpaper was very popular in the 1800s, and can often be found in most (if not every) room when examining this era,” Elizabeth Rees of Chasing Paper shares with us. “To emulate the aesthetic of Regencycore, wallpaper is a must, and be sure to install it on all four walls for the ultimate effect.”
Traditional Wall Paneling
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On walls where wallpaper won't do, MyJobQuote’s design expert Ryan McDonough says that traditional paneling is the answer. Though this sounds like a labor-intensive decor element, the good news is that it is an easy DIY, according to McDonough.
The tools needed for such a project are as follows: wooden panels, a pencil, a tape measure and laser level for measuring, and a saw and miter box for cutting. McDonough suggests having a pipe and cable detector on hand before you drill, as well as some strong adhesive and sturdy nails to secure the paneling in place. After your paneling is installed, paint with your Bridgerton-approved shade of choice.
Layers Upon Layers of Excess
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“When you take a look at the sets used for Bridgerton, you'll notice that layers abound,” Skye Westcott, the SVP of Merchandising and Design at Ballard Designs notes. “Walls have moldings, trim, wallpaper, and artwork all layered together. Take the same approach to your own walls, but also to your furnishings."
Try a classic roll arm sofa or French-inspired antiques, which add even more personality when upholstered in a color or pattern. Once the big elements of your room are defined: keep going!
“Add texture and pattern wherever you can with pleated lampshades in regal blues, pillows embellished with embroidery, trim, and chinoiserie vases,” Westcott says.
Stunning and Sophisticated Light Fixtures
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Speaking of excess, McDonough highlighted another Regencycore must: ornate chandeliers.
“Add dazzling glass chandeliers to your living space," he suggests. "These bounce light around the room and are perfect if you have a small room, as this type of lighting will help to create the illusion of more space."
Focusing on Florals
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“For a Bridgerton-inspired room, you will want to select an ornate toile, floral, or chinoiserie print,” Rees says. While these are perfect for wallpapers, this applies to fabric, too.
“Toile and florals were especially popular in the 1800s, and due to how they were made, often featured a small repeating pattern,” Rees shares.
Embrace Rich, Bold Colors
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Sorry, neutral lovers. Regencycore calls for bold, rich colors—there’s a reason why they're called jewel tones, after all.
“To create a Bridgerton feel, don’t shy away from color,” Rees says. “Rich blues, greens, yellows, and pinks are often styled in a monochromatic way to achieve this aesthetic, such as blue-based wallpaper paired with blue drapes and a blue rug. Each color scheme tends to be accented with another color, such as pink with blue, or green with yellow.”
But while color is key, Westcott warms that when it comes to certain colors, you should avoid getting too saturated.
“Use nuanced versions of your favorite classics like reds, blues, greens, and pinks,” she says. “Anything too bright won't feel authentic to the time period, so look for colors that are a bit subdued. If using color from carpet to crown makes you nervous, consider a monotone look and use several shades in the same family.”
Use Metallics as Accents, Not Fillers
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While much of Regencycore relies on the spirit of excess, Rees warns us of one exception. “Don’t go overboard with the metallics,” she says, at least when selecting your wallpaper. In other aspects of decor, metallics are a go—especially in places like mirrors and other accessories.