In this episode, I’m joined by Hilary Davidson – dress historian, curator, and author of Jane Austen’s Wardrobe and Dress in the Age of Jane Austen. We dive once again into the fascinating world of Regency fashion and explore how clothes can tell stories just as powerful as words.
Hilary shares the incredible process of recreating Jane Austen’s pelisse, what dancing shoes of the era can reveal about society, the purpose of fashion plates and how they were used. We also chat about the evolution of menswear, and how Austen herself used fashion in her novels not just for flair, but as subtle (and sometimes not-so-subtle) indicator of morality and social standing.
So whether you're a history lover, a fashion enthusiast, or just obsessed with all things Jane Austen, this one’s for you. Pour a cup of tea and join us for a cozy, richly woven conversation that’s all about fabric and fiction 🌿👗📚
Places to research more on Fashion plates mentioned in the episode:
https://lib.bunka.ac.jp/english/
Hilary’s Davidson books:
Jane Austen’s Wardrobe (2023)
Dress in the Age of Jane Austen: Regency Fashion (2019)
A Guide to Regency Dress OUT 2025
Where can you find Hilary:
@fourredshoes
