Tuesday Tea and Tomes: Jane Austen's Wardrobe

Jane Austen's Wardrobe by Hilary Davidson

On the occasion of Jane Austen’s 250th birthday, it feels only fitting that this Tuesday’s tome celebrates what went into clothing the beloved author of six novels, including Pride and Prejudice. Jane Austen’s Wardrobe, written by dress historian Hilary Davidson, offers a comprehensive guide to the gowns, coats, undergarments, and accessories Austen would have worn during the Regency era.

Published in 2023, Davidson’s book draws on exhaustive research and Austen’s own letters—most often to her sister, Cassandra—to provide an intimate glimpse into the author’s closet (shelves included!). We discover not only what Austen wore, but also her keen interest in design. Though not a fashion leader, she remained attuned to trends and took delight in selecting new attire.

Expanding one’s wardrobe in Austen’s world was no simple task. Clothing was custom-made, and considerable time was devoted to every detail of design, from fabric and style to embellishments.

Davidson organizes the book much like a wardrobe itself, with sections ranging from gowns to accessories, all richly illustrated with photographs and drawings.

Austen's ring is back at Chawton, 2012

Rachel plays piano-forte at Chawton, 2011

Among Austen’s accessories is her turquoise ring, now housed at the Jane Austen House in Chawton, England, where daughter, Rachel and I visited in 2011. A testament to her taste for simple elegance, the ring is nearly as famous today for its brief ownership by American singer Kelly Clarkson. The full tale—sordid but ultimately happy—is recounted in Jane Austen’s Wardrobe and in the November/December issue of TeaTime Magazine, where this BTS blogger covered the Morgan Library’s Jane Austen exhibit earlier this year.

TeaTime Nov/Dec issue: Morgan Library and the turquoise ring (and more!)

I was fortunate to receive Jane Austen’s Wardrobe last Christmas from our favorite New York couple, my son and daughter-in-law, Matt and Jenna. The gift was met with great approbation, and I can assure you it will bring equal felicity to any Austen enthusiast on your gift giving list - be it holiday or birthday!

Happy 250th Birthday to Jane Austen!