Fashion in Fiction: Clothing Speaks Volumes in Jane Austen’s Regency Novels
On Sunday, Feb. 27 at 2pm, Milford Library welcomes actor Kandie Carle, who will be presenting a program about Regency clothing and its significance. The performance will be held on Zoom because of recent rising Covid infections.
Ms. Carle has been presenting historical programs since 1992, from Regency to Edwardian (1800-1915), and draws on her extensive background in theater, dance, and historical fashion to engage and enthrall audiences. While dressed in authentic Regency attire, Ms. Carle gives a detailed overview of the clothing of the Regency Era, (early 1800s) for both gentlemen and ladies. She will also dress two mannequins with period costumes, explaining the significance of the attire. Then Ms. Carle shares excerpts from Austen’s personal letters as well as passages from some of the novels, highlighting Miss Austen’s use of clothing to define character and class, enhance the story line, and develop plot points. Teens through adults will enjoy discovering just how important fashion was 200 years ago.