Pride & Prejudice (2005)

The 2005 film adaptation of Pride & Prejudice, directed by Joe Wright and starring Keira Knightley and Matthew Macfadyen, left a lasting impact on period drama aesthetics and fashion interpretations of the early 19th century.

While the film’s costume design by Jacqueline Durran took creative liberties rather than strictly adhering to Regency-era fashion, its influence extended into contemporary fashion trends and the broader landscape of historical adaptations.

Durran’s approach when creating the costumes was a combination of historical accuracy whilst also adding a modern touch keeping the audience engaged and feeling authentic such as the chosen silhouettes of high-waisted empire-line gowns.

These are traditional seen in the Regency period however the relaxed draping of the fabric created a softer more romanticised look. The rainy confrontation scene between Elizabeth (Knightley) and Mr Darcy (Macfadyen) at the temple ruins has become synonymous with the film’s romantic/ naturalistic aesthetic but it also hosts Elizabeth’s most iconic outfit.

The colour choice pallets for the dark brown wool coat and hunter green dress expresses the characters connection to nature, emphasising her independent and down to earth nature. Especially when seen beside the aristocratic characters such as Caroline Bingley, creating a contrast and distinctively showcasing the class difference between the two families and the simpler lifestyle that the Bennett’s lead.

The twist of incorporating late 18th century as well as a more modern touches on the outfits created an exemplary influence on period dramas that came after it such as the 2019 adaptation of Little Women, directed by Greta Gerwig as well as Emma (2020) directed by Autumn De Wilde.

This impact allowed for period dramas to embrace a softer adaptation when it comes to recreating outfits instead of strictly following historical accuracy, establishing a standard for fusing period authenticity with more contemporary sensibilities.

Overall, Pride & Prejudice successfully plays with costume design and find a perfect balanced period inspiration and accuracy with modern accessibility, creating a lasting impact on both modern fashion and historical drama aesthetics. Its influence continues to resonate within fashion trends and cinematic interpretations of historical romance.

By Muna Farah, a student on the BA Journalism course at London College of Communication