How Bridgerton modernizes historical romance for a new generation

If you’re even remotely into romance or love a good binge-worthy show, chances are you’ve heard of Bridgerton. This show is absolutely a full-blown phenomenon.

What makes it unique and special is that it takes everything we love about historical romance and presents it in a modern way. Be it the casting, the violin pop song covers or the ballrooms, Bridgerton reimagines the Regency era in a way that actually feels fresh and exciting.

Something that won't bore even the ones who are not into historical romances.

A period drama can sometimes feel old. The same corsets, the same pale-skinned nobility. However, Bridgerton gave us a world that feels both grand and relatable. So let’s take a look at how exactly this show managed to make historical romance cool.

Disclaimer: This article reflects the author's opinion. Readers' discretion is advised.

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Bridgerton: Cast and music that feels like today

First off is the casting. In most of the traditional period dramas, the characters are mostly historical figures or have historically “accurate” (read: overwhelmingly white) lineups. But Bridgerton wanted to be different. It didn't care about the rulebook. And so we got a cast that actually reflects the world we live in while still maintaining the historic feel.

Take Queen Charlotte for example. The idea of a Black queen in Regency-era England is groundbreaking for TV! But it’s not just about representation. It’s about rewriting the narrative so that everyone can see themselves in these grand and sweeping love stories.

Secondly, the music! Oh, the feeling you get when you hear the soundtracks of Bridgerton. Just how perfectly they complement the ballroom scenes! Well, we weren't expecting an orchestral version of Taylor Swift's Love Story when we first watched it! The show took us by surprise and it was a really good one.

Be it Ariana Grande, Billie Eilish or even Madonna! All were reimagined as elegant violin pieces. It’s a genius move because it bridges the gap between then and now. You get the grandeur of a Regency ball but with a familiar beat that makes it feel current. It’s little details like this that keep us all hooked.

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Bridgerton: The costumes and love stories

Nobody’s watching Bridgerton for a history lesson. That's for sure. That’s why the fashion team had fun with it. The show’s costumes are inspired by the Regency era, but evidently they took plenty of creative liberties. Brighter colors, richer fabrics, and way more sparkle. Just the way we like it!

Daphne’s dreamy pastel gowns, Edwina Sharma’s intricate embroidery, Kate’s bold jewel tones. Each and every character’s wardrobe is meticulously designed to reflect their personality. Oh, and let’s not forget those stunning tiaras! It’s historical fashion, but with a modern, high-fashion twist.

Yes, Bridgerton is a romantic series, but it doesn’t just throw characters into relationships for the sake of it. The show is about real, relatable themes. It's about women dealing with societal expectations, people struggling with identity, families dealing with secrets and scandals.

Take Kate and Anthony’s slow-burn romance in Season 2. That push-and-pull dynamic, the tension, the hand touches. It’s the kind of chemistry that makes your heart race. Especially because it’s happening in a candlelit drawing room instead of a modern rom-com setting.

The show’s leading ladies aren’t your typical damsels waiting to be saved either. They have agency, desires, and most importantly flaws. And that’s what makes them feel real.

At the end of the day, Bridgerton took the best parts of historical romance. The big dresses, passionate love stories, dramatic family feuds, and made them feel fresh for us.

Also read: Bridgerton Season 4 cast list: Who's returning and who isn't for the latest renewal of the romance drama

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