Beau Brummell (1778–1840,) born George Bryan Brummell, was an English dandy and fashion icon who revolutionized men’s style in Regency England. His influence on tailoring, grooming, and etiquette shaped modern elegance.
Born in London, Brummell attended Eton College, earning a reputation for wit and refinement. He briefly studied at Oriel College-Oxford, before joining the Prince of Wales’s regiment (1794.) His friendship with George, Prince of Wales (later King George IV,) elevated him to high society, where he became the arbiter of fashion.
Brummell championed simple, impeccably tailored clothing, favoring dark coats, crisp white shirts, and meticulously tied cravats over the ornate styles of the 18th century. His emphasis on bathing, shaving, and hygiene set new standards for gentlemanly appearance.
Despite his influence, his lavish lifestyle led to financial ruin. After falling out with the Prince Regent (1812,) he fled to Calais (1816) to escape debt. He later served as British consul in Caen (1830–32) but was imprisoned for debt (1835.) His final years were spent in poverty, and he died in 1840.
Biographies include Ian Kelly’s Beau Brummell (2005) and Olivia Hill’s Beau Brummell: The Ultimate Dandy (2006.)
More: Wikipedia • READ: Works by Beau Brummell
Starch makes the gentleman, etiquette the lady.
—Beau Brummell
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