Regency balls, Jane Austen festivals and Bridgerton-themed evenings have become some of the most enjoyable events of the social calendar. Dressing the part is half the fun, and the gentleman’s Regency look is surprisingly simple once you know its elements.
The Regency silhouette
Between roughly 1811 and 1820, menswear moved away from lace and brocade towards clean lines and perfect tailoring, a style made famous by Beau Brummell. The ideal was a strong chest, a narrow waist and long legs. Everything in the outfit serves that shape.
1. The tailcoat
The centrepiece is a tailcoat cut away high at the front, with tails behind reaching to the back of the knee. It usually has a tall, rolled collar and is often double-breasted. Deep colours were the fashion: navy, bottle green, burgundy, brown and black. See our Regency collection for tailcoats cut in this style.
2. The waistcoat
The waistcoat is where you can show some personality. Ivory, cream, buff and soft gold were popular, as were brocades and fine stripes. It should be cut straight across at the waist so that it shows just below the front of the tailcoat.
3. Trousers or breeches
Pale, close-fitting trousers or pantaloons in cream, buff or light grey complete the silhouette. Darker trousers that match the coat look more formal and suit an evening ball well.
4. Shirt and neckwear
A white shirt with a high collar and a white cravat or neckcloth is the authentic choice. A loosely tied silk cravat is easy to manage and photographs beautifully.
5. Finishing touches
- Black leather boots or simple black pumps
- A pocket watch on a chain across the waistcoat
- Short white or cream gloves for dancing
Choosing your colours
For a first Regency outfit, a navy or bottle-green tailcoat with an ivory waistcoat and cream trousers is timeless and flattering. Burgundy with gold reads as richer and more dramatic, ideal for an evening event. If you are attending with a partner, choose a waistcoat colour that echoes their gown.
Fit is everything
The Regency look depends on close, clean tailoring. All of our tailcoat suits can be made to your measurements, and our size guide shows you exactly how to measure.