Picking just one character to base a thrifted outfit on from this post-Edwardian costume drama was impossible! My personal favorite Downton Abbey() character is Lady Violet Grantham, but I have yet to master Maggie Smith’s look of blatant disapproval. Instead I chose a more general mid-1910s inspiration—a time when sheer overlays and contrasting underlay fabrics were popular. The light pink under dress is subtle against the black lace and beading. A modern belt is a simple and inexpensive update and adds definition to an otherwise frumpy silhouette.
The best part of the 1910s and early 1920s are the hair and makeup. A combination of a deep red lip stain and a mini-cat eyeliner in grey is perfect for a social gathering of that period. Light statement jewels pull the look together with exotic black pearls, a large black onyx, and a crown ring.
