How To Dress Like A Modern Jane Austen Character: 15 Fashion Staples

Photo by Svetlana

Jane Austen’s beloved novels take place over two centuries ago now. Much of the language, the social expectations, and the traditions we read about in her stories feel foreign to the modern world we find ourselves in.

And yet, there are timeless elements to Austen’s novels; a deep desire for love, family matters, and economic struggles are all themes that, just over two hundred years after Pride and Prejudice was published, are still applicable to our lives.

Another thing that is more relevant than perhaps we realize? The fashion. While it’s true that petticoats and bonnets are no longer the wardrobe staples that they once were, we still believe that there’s some inspiration to be gleaned from her heroine’s fashion choices that isn’t old-fashioned or dated, but timeless and classic.

Here are 15 things you’ll need to start dressing like a modern Jane Austen charatcer.

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01 | An airy puffy-sleeved dress.

Is there anything more Austen-inspired than puffy sleeves? We think not.

02 | A pair of adorable flats.

So you can always stay comfortable without having to sacrifice your look.

03 | A pretty floral blouse.

Floral print? Check. Ruffles? Check. This cute blouse has it all.

04 | A cute rattan bag.

For you to stash away all your essentials on your many adventures through the countryside.

05 | A romantic silky dress.

This sweet, simple piece will undoubtedly make you feel like a heroine as soon as you slip it on.

06 | Whimsical hair bows.

You’ll have to tie your locks back somehow — why not with a fun bow?

07 | Lace-up booties.

No Austen-inspired fashion list would be complete without these wonderful boots.

08 | A beautiful wrap dress.

You’ll be more than ready to meet your Mr. Darcy in this perfectly romantic dress.

09 | An eye-catching pendant.

For those days when you need a little something to tie your ensemble together.

10 | An artsy phone case.

Monet’s Île aux fleurs came soon after Austen’s novels, but this piece captures the feeling of her stories nonetheless.

11 | A simple white blouse.

When you’re looking for something simple to throw on, this cute blouse will come in handy.

12 | A lovely linen skirt.

You’ll feel like you’re wandering through the rolling fields of England in this breezy linen skirt.

13 | A pair of pearl earrings.

A lady must always be in possession of a pair of pearl earrings.

14 | An embroidered wrap.

Wrap it around your shoulders to use as a shawl, or cover your hair to wear it as a bonnet. This lovely scarf is an Austen staple.

15 | A pair of gaucho pants.

For those days when pants are necessary, you can still embrace your modern Austen heroine look effortlessly with these wide-leg pants.