Dear reader, there is good news about the ton – Bridgerton is (nearly) back. The wildly popular period drama, which first introduced us to the colourful world of Lady Whistledown and her infamous gossip column in December 2020, is rumoured to release its third instalment this autumn.

Fans of the show will be expecting fresh scandal, torrid new love affairs and at least four string-quartet covers of Ariana Grande songs. But perhaps the most hotly anticipated aspect of the Netflix series is the clothes; fabulous fashion served in every frame, ranging from demure daytime promenades to ostentatious and opulent balls. 

Now, not everyone has time to nip to the modiste for a fitting, so we’ve put together some Bridgerton-inspired contemporary looks – from the diamond of the season to the sultry Duke of Hastings – all of which can be found in Sloane Street’s finest ateliers.

But first a warning, dear reader, that spoilers may follow…

Season one’s ‘diamond of the first water’ was none other than the coy and correct eldest Bridgerton daughter, Daphne (played by Phoebe Dynevor). But this nice girl soon showed that she had a naughty side, falling for the dashing Duke of Hastings – the bad boy of the ton – and eventually marrying him.

Despite her bodice-ripping romance, Daphne’s wardrobe remained demure and ethereal throughout, with empire line gowns in pale pastel hues and ivory silks. Anyone wanting to steal her look should start with the queen of modern femininity: Emilia Wickstead. Her full-skirted, calf-skimming Terry dress in white will turn any rake’s head; we recommend pairing it with these achingly on-trend patent leather ballerinas from Prada. Finish off the look with an Hermès Planifleurs silk scarf slung about the shoulders, an elegant and understated Cartier d’Amour bracelet in white gold and this metallic Dior Or Lady D-Joy bag for a fun little twist on Daphne’s signature silver accents.

Who could forget his, um… eyes and the unmistakable style of Simon Basset, aka the Duke of Hastings? If ever a man could cause an entire room of debutantes to swoon en masse, it’s him. Despite only appearing in season one, his impact has been lasting and it wasn’t just his tortured backstory and passion for Daphne that left an impression.

The Duke isn’t afraid to stand out from the crowd – and you shouldn’t be either. For a modern take on his sumptuous style, we recommend paying a visit to Tom Ford. The sexy-yet-sophisticated Atticus jacket in the deepest midnight blue velvet can be elevated even further with the addition of an Hermès scarf tied into a cravat – we particularly like the Galop’H Losange print. 

Tom Ford is also a great advocate for boots rather than shoes – something he and the Duke have in common, and Berluti’s alligator leather boots have just the right amount of attitude. Finally, add a pair of single-darted, wool and cashmere seersucker trousers from Giorgio Armani and you too may end up charming the most sought-after miss of the season.

When first we met Penny, things weren’t looking good for the youngest daughter of the overbearing Portia Featherington. Often dressed in egg-yolk yellow, overlooked by her charming crush and generally disgruntled with her lot in life, this unassuming member of the ton isn’t all she seems. She has a thrilling secret. 

By season two, we know that Penelope Featherington is in fact none other than the infamous Lady Whistledown. Her sense of style, although dictated by Mama, is nonetheless iconic and can actually work when given a contemporary Sloane Street makeover. 

This Iris brocade short dress by Valentino keeps Penny’s yellow floral motif but updates it with a cheeky mini length and iridescent sheen for the ideal cocktail party look. Never one to shy away from a colour clash, Penny wouldn’t be able to resist these Marella (by way of Harvey Nichols) satin mules – especially when teamed with an Orsay MM Bag from Louis Vuitton and a spritz of Amaffi’s Ovation for Women. Finally, add Bulgari’s Tribute to Venice necklace – because if you can’t be the diamond of the season, you may as well wear them.

We first met Queen Charlotte in season one of the show. Her towering wigs, opulent style, imperious air and remarkably communicative grimace are the first things we see – and it’s not until later that this impressive monarch’s true vulnerability and strength shine through. 

Most recently, Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story introduced us to a younger, more naïve queen (brilliantly brought to life by India Amarteifio), miles apart from her sometimes callous and cruel Bridgerton counterpart. But it’s not just her outlook that changes; her style in Queen Charlotte is more subtle, awash with pastel hues, shimmering silvers and floral adornments. 

Those wanting to emulate this royal look should first pay a visit to Bottega Veneta: its pale blue lace dress echoes the young queen’s palette perfectly; pair it with Roger Vivier’s patent leather mules – we particularly love the Regency-style buckle. Carry the floral motif through to your accessories with Bulgari’s white-gold bracelet, an elegant nod to Charlotte’s love of silver tones. 

Mere coats are far too mundane for the wife of a king, so we recommend this sumptuous, show-stopping wool cape from Dolce & Gabbana instead. Finally, the young Queen Charlotte is all about the hair. Her gorgeous natural texture is worn with headbands, hats and flowers – sometimes even feathers. Feathers aren’t that practical for the modern woman about town, so we suggest the appropriately named ‘Kingsbridge’ velvet headband from Emily London at Harvey Nichols. Truly, a look fit for a queen.

When it comes to divas, Lady Danbury is in a league of her own. Whether she’s counselling the Queen, throwing subtle shade at social climbers or laying down the law, you can bet she’s looking good while doing it. There’s only one brand this powerhouse would be sporting in 2023, gentle reader, and that is Chanel from top to toe.

 Lady D loves a burgundy moment, which is why this entire look from Chanel’s autumn-winter 2023/24 pre-collection is perfect for any high-powered players looking to follow in her footsteps. The red, purple and black iridescent tweed separates are all classic investment pieces on their own, but for full aristocratic impact, team all of them together and top off with the mini flap bag and the beige-and-black high boots in suede and patent leather. All you need now is the attitude to match the outfit – perhaps a rewatch of seasons one and two are in order?