Bridgerton, the hit Netflix period drama, has captivated audiences not only with its scandalous storylines but also its exquisite costumes. As the show returns for its fourth season, the lead costume designers, John Glaser and Dougie Hawkes, reveal how they have meticulously crafted the show’s sartorial splendour.
The designers draw inspiration from iconic period pieces, such as the famous wet shirt scene from the 1995 BBC adaptation of Pride and Prejudice. “I think Colin Firth made the men’s period full-sleeve shirt iconic for the Mr Darcy moment,” says Hawkes, who was involved in the earlier production. “I’ve always wanted to better it personally.”
This ambition comes to fruition in Bridgerton’s fourth season, particularly in the character of Benedict, played by Luke Thompson. “We’ve been, since season one, trying to perfect the men’s shirt in its portrayal within Bridgerton, and I think we finally got there this season,” Hawkes explains.
While historical accuracy is not the show’s primary focus, the designers strive to strike a balance between fantasy and reality. “We had to present [the contrast between upstairs and downstairs] to the viewers as a new thing,” Hawkes says. Glaser adds, “We also had to make [it clear that] the downstairs [is] as interesting as the upstairs has always been, which was a nice challenge.”
Colour continues to be a powerful symbol in Bridgerton, with the designers using it to signify power, personality, and place. “We still use the original colour palette from season one,” Glaser explains, “but saying that, as the characters have matured and developed, our colour palette has matured and developed.”
The designers also incorporate modern elements, such as men’s jewellery, to keep the costumes feeling fresh and relevant. “With the guys, I’ve really picked on pop culture and art culture and fashion culture,” Hawkes reveals.
Ultimately, the pursuit of perfection is what drives the Bridgerton costume team. “We never give up, and we’re always looking for the better option,” Hawkes says. This relentless pursuit extends even to the simple yet iconic shirt, with the designers experimenting with different fabrics and colours to achieve the perfect look.
As Bridgerton ventures into new territories, both upstairs and downstairs, the costume designers remain committed to reinventing period drama, blending the fantastical with the realistic, and delivering a visual feast for the senses.
