Bridgerton, the popular Netflix series set in Regency-era London, has not only captivated audiences with its romantic storylines and lavish costumes but has also made a significant economic impact. The show has boosted the UK economy by £275 million over five years, employing over 5,000 businesses, many of which are local to the filming areas. This economic boost extends to costume design, set construction, catering, and tourism, benefiting a diverse range of businesses.
While Bridgerton is set in the early 19th century, it offers surprising insights into sustainability that are relevant today. The show’s production team has taken steps to incorporate sustainable practices, as highlighted in a behind-the-scenes sustainability featurette. This focus on sustainability aligns with growing environmental awareness in the entertainment industry.
The series showcases several aspects of Regency life that resonate with modern sustainability principles:
1. Unique designs: Bridgerton’s costumes are individually crafted, reflecting a slow fashion approach that contrasts with today’s mass-produced garments. This emphasis on unique, high-quality pieces encourages viewers to value durable, well-made items.
2. Bespoke craftsmanship: The show features 7,500 handcrafted costumes, highlighting the importance of quality and longevity in clothing. This meticulous approach stands in stark contrast to fast fashion’s disposable nature.
3. Recycling and upcycling: In the Regency era, garments were often altered and reused, adapting to changing fashions or new wearers. This historical practice aligns with modern slow fashion principles, reducing waste and maximizing material use.
4. Seasonal eating: The show depicts characters consuming seasonal produce, highlighting the sustainability of eating according to natural growing cycles.
5. Reusable items: Characters frequently use reusable items like cloth handkerchiefs, napkins, china, and silverware, contrasting with our modern disposable culture.
6. Slow communication: The pace of letter-writing and in-person interactions in Bridgerton encourages reflection on the environmental and social impact of our technology use.
The show’s popularity has also sparked interest in Regency-era gardens and landscaping. Two opposing philosophies emerged during this period: one that aimed to blend into nature and another that sought to stand out. These landscaping trends influenced garden designs for decades, and their impact can still be seen in modern gardens. Bridgerton’s Sustainable Charm: Lessons from the Regency Era for Modern Time
Bridgerton’s success goes beyond its entertainment value. It has become a cultural phenomenon, attracting a worldwide audience of all ages. The show’s unique blend of Regency-era drama with modern sensibilities has contributed to its popularity, making it Netflix’s most-watched series in its first month of release.
While Bridgerton takes creative liberties with historical accuracy, particularly in costume design, it offers valuable lessons in sustainability. By showcasing a world where items were crafted with care and meant to last, it encourages viewers to reconsider our throwaway culture and embrace more sustainable practices. As we enjoy the romantic escapades and social intrigues of the Bridgerton family, we can also reflect on the enduring principles of craftsmanship, reuse, and mindful consumption that are as relevant today as they were two centuries ago.
