Dress & Diversion in Jane Austen’s Bath

Was Jane Austen a fashionista? In this illustrated talk, fashion historian Penelope Byrde Ruddock looks at the diversions that made the city of Bath so delightful as a spa resort and at the clothes that were worn for the social round – some of which were particular Bath fashions. It will give a context to the city in Austen’s time, as both a visitor and resident, and a way of life reflected in her letters and her two ‘Bath’ novels: Northanger Abbey and Persuasion.

Please note: you can purchase a ticket to include afternoon tea after the talk – please choose the relevant option below.

Penelope is the former Curator of the Museum of Costume (now the Fashion Museum) in Bath and was a visiting lecturer at Central Saint Martins, University of the Arts, London. She is a Life Member of the Jane Austen Society and author of Jane Austen Fashion (Moonrise Press).