This past Saturday the Jane Austen Society of North Texas hosted Celebrating Jane Austen’s 250th Birthday in Fashion. The event included a talk by esteemed Regency era historian and author Hilary Davison as well as an Exhibit of Emma and Pride and Prejudice Costumes.
Exhibit of Emma and Pride and Prejudice Costumes
I arrived early at the AMA to photograph the costumes. They are temporarily on loan from NBCUniversal Archives & Collections. The free museum exhibit, Dressed for the Drawing Room: Fashion in Jane Austen’s World, runs January 9 through March 22, 2026. It features a few iconic costumes from the Pride and Prejudice 2005 and Emma 2020 films.
Upon entering the exhibit there was a group of costumes from the 2020 version of Emma.
A lovely green gown worn by actress Gemma Whelan in her role as Mrs. Weston.
This costume was created by Alexandra Byrne.
The braiding of the fabric was exquisite.
The lace peeking out underneath is a delightful touch.
A tiny reticule.
Such a pretty hem detail.
Frank Churchill as portrayed by actor Callum Turner.
This linen frock coat was absolutely delicious.
A beautiful watch fob chain and seal.
The next grouping featured two costumes from Pride and Prejudice 2005 and one from Emma 2020.
Behind the seams.
The maid Betsey was portrayed by actress Sinead Matthews.
I always love to see the clothing depicted for an everyday worker.
A front closing gown meant that Betsy could dress herself.
She wears a handkerchief for modesty.
A costume worn by Tamzin Merchant in her role as Georgiana Darcy. The designer was Jacqueline Durran. I could not find a movie still image of this dress.
A costume for Harriet Smith as worn by Mia Goth in Emma. Again, I could not find a movie still of this ensemble.
It was created by designer Alexandra Byrne.
I love the Pankou knot on this sleeve.
This reticule appears to be an extant (antique).
Such beautiful white on white embroidery featured on the muslin hem.
The last two costumes on display were both from Pride and Prejudice and created by Jacqueline Durran.
A coat worn by Rosamund Pike in her role as Jane Bennet.
Embroidery featuring French knots is delicate yet so effective.
A wee button detail with thread loop.
A pink gown also worn by Rosamund Pike.
Sweet details for a sweet character.
After the exhibit I attended a lecture on Regency Fashion by Hilary Davidson. She is a well known historian of dress, fashion and textiles and often works as a curator and consultant. She has written three books Dress in the Age of Jane Austen, Jane Austen’s Wardrobe and most recently A Guide To Regency Dress. It was such a honor to hear her speak.
Come back tomorrow for all the details on what I wore.
Laura
What a fantastic exhibit. And I love the detail in your photos — photographed as only one with your keen eye for detail could do. It had to be a most exquisite exhibition and fascinating talk. Thanks for sharing this.
You captured the details magnificently!