Regency-Inspired Footwear Takes Over NYC Streets
Fashionistas in New York City are channeling their inner royalty with shoes inspired by “Marie Antoinette” and “Bridgerton.” As they walk the bustling sidewalks, it’s almost like they’re attending a modern-day Queen’s Ball.
With the release of part two of season four of the popular historical drama on February 26, fans are stepping into Regency-era style by sporting delicate “coquette” shoes. These charming pieces blend romance and a dash of attitude, and can be found at shops like Sole on the Upper West Side, Screaming Worm in the West Village, and John Fluevog Shoes in Soho and Dumbo.
Think satin ribbons, soft pastels, and elaborate designs fit for Versailles. It’s clear that the spirit of Marie Antoinette is thriving in the heart of New York.
John Fluevog, well-known for its unique designs, has gained popularity with two locations in the city. Fans are buzzing about the Bishop buckled loafer heels, Sabrina lace-ups, and Zoe embroidered lace-up heels, all showcasing a striking blend of elegance and modern flair.
Arabella Barros, the creative director at John Fluevog, notes that this fascination with Regency footwear goes beyond aesthetics. “People are searching for romance not just visually but also emotionally,” she mentioned. The allure of these shoes allows people to “bring a bit of fantasy” into their modern lives.
“It’s not solely about escaping reality; it’s about infusing softness, uniqueness, and whimsy into everyday outfits,” she explained. According to Barros, 2026 shoppers are leaning toward rounded toes, feminine shapes, and bold details.
Current trends also feature delicate ribbons paired with sturdy soles and unexpected colors in embroidery. “What stands out for me is this contrast between gentle and strong,” she emphasized.
Barros added that the historical influences at Fluevog are always viewed through a contemporary, slightly rebellious lens—imagine what characters from the past might wear today.
The brand, founded in Vancouver in 1970, found a dedicated following in New York during the ’80s and ’90s for its quirky Art Deco styles and playful sole messages. While it has enjoyed lasting popularity, series like “Bridgerton” are introducing Fluevog to a new generation.
It’s also helpful to have celebrity fans. For instance, Broadway star Gracie Lawrence and even Lady Gaga have donned Fluevog designs at major events, highlighting the brand’s connection to the fashion-forward crowd.
After years dominated by casual athleisure, there’s a noticeable shift back toward “romance, craftsmanship, and femininity,” according to Kachita Maki, a sartorial influencer with a penchant for Regency-style shoes. She observes many designs, like bow lace, soft square and almond toes, racing off the shelves in both New York and Los Angeles.
“Modern lace-up ballet flats and embellished Mary Janes capture today’s Regency core aesthetic,” she explained. “They feel timeless yet are very much at home on urban streets.”
Fashion historian Jesse Francis supports the idea that quirky footwear can provide a much-needed escape. “‘Bridgerton’ serves as a bridge to a refined escape, even if only briefly,” she mentioned.
She identifies staples of the Regency core—kitten heels, lace-ups, and square toes—as not merely fashionable but as elements that evoke a sense of security and softness. “Lace has long been associated with wealth and elegance,” she noted.
When asked about the best representation of the Regency-core style, her answer was clear: “It’s definitely John Fluevog. Walking into that store is like stepping into the world of ‘Bridgerton’.”
