Formal evening wear of the 1810's would consist of black knee breeches (silk or satin), a white linen shirt with a high collar and ruffles on the chest, a white linen or muslin cravat, a cream (beige) or white waistcoat also with a high collar, a black tailcoat, white stockings and gloves, and black dance slippers. Military uniform of the period is also suitable, but no cavalry boots, please!
For those who reenact other periods: late 18th century men's dress ("Colonial"/"George Washington" style) is quite welcome, as are later nineteenth century or modern style "white tie and tails". Formal Scottish wear (kilt with jacket) is also suitable and much admired by the ladies, and the more colorful ensembles of the early 19th century are welcome as well.
The ourfit described above, piece by piece:
- Shirt
- Breeches
- Waistcoat
- Cravat
- Stockings
- Shoes
- Tailcoat
- Hair
Ladies always appreciate kilts!
Some suggested websites for pictures of men's Regency costume:
| The Regency Fashion Page | Incredible page with links for men's, women's, and children's costumes and many subpages on specific items such as outerwear, hats, and shoes. Includes numerous period illustraions and paintings as well as photographs of actual garments. | |
| La Belle Assemblee | Subpage of the above, with direct links to the fashion plates from many issues from 1808 to 1818. | |
|
The Republic of Pemberley |
Men's costumes taken from portraits and sketches as well as some delightful caricatures of men's fashion excesses. Many other Regency-era illustrations as well. | |
|
Jessamyn's Regency Costume Companion |
Well-organized page with notes and period illustrations divided by type of garment, including men's, women's, and children's. Also photos of original pieces from museums, pattern and book reviews, links. |