With the final series of Downton Abbey behind us, many of us are considering what we are now going to do between 9pm and 10pm on a Sunday evening. Not only have we enjoyed the breath-taking countryside, the intrigue of what goes on upstairs and downstairs but also to ogle at the elaborate costumes that most of us can only dream about. I for one am feeling a trifle bereft having watching every episode of every series.
Downton Abbey has long been revered for its show-stopping costumes and this series does not disappoint. With elaborate accessories and hues of mystical romance, it is providing enough fringe, pearl and lace detail to satisfy even the most hardened of style critics. So, banish those corsets (so passé, darling) and bring on the flapper silhouette.
Out on the streets, sales of long silk gloves, pearls and empire waisted dresses have soared since Downton Abbey aired. The popularity of Downton Abbey and its beautiful costumes has inspired a whole new demand for 1900s fashion accessories like hats and shrugs too.
British hunting parties and opulent candlelit dinners of bygone eras have inspired a return of the county and glamorous looks.
So how can we bring a little Downton into our daily lives without having to have our maid’s available to dress us?
Wear a long string of pearls.
- Invest in a long pair of gloves and wear with a short sleeve dress for added glamour.
- A lacey number with sheer sleeves will flatter and feminise.
- How about a bow at the neck of your blouse for that prim ‘Lady Edith’ look?
- Dress in clothes with embellishment and detail.
- Don’t forget a dropped waist dress to be in tune with this series.
- Find a cloche style hat to keep you warm this winter.
- Add hair accessories to your locks to add sparkle even for the daytime.
- Buy that wax or heritage inspired jacket you have been meaning to get.
- Find a simple striped blouse. Oh, maybe not – I am sure we would all rather look more Lady Mary than Daisy.
The choice is yours.
Remember, in the words of the Dowager Countess of Grantham (played by Maggie Smith) – “I’m a woman, Mary. I can be as contrary as I choose.”