Bridgerton’s Nicola Coughlan reveals unexpected side effect of wearing regency gowns

Bridgerton actress Nicola Coughlan shared a behind-the-scenes look at a surprising side effect that comes with wearing the regency gowns on set. Learn exactly what a “Bridgertan” is.

Nicola Coughlan, who plays the character Penelope Featherington on the Netflix period drama, shared the unexpected souvenir cast members get when wearing the regency gowns on the Bridgerton set. The answer? A particularly unfortunate sunburn where the period dresses expose their necks and chests.

"And so…the Bridgertan* returns," Nicola teased in a July 29 Instagram Stories. "Sunburn you get while wearing a regency dress."

So, the costume grants a painful side effect. But, that's not to say Nicola's character won't look ravishing in season three. In fact, a July 20 teaser video announcing production on season three gave fans a look at Penelope's striking glow-up. While Penelope has always been a beauty, the character has made some changes to her prior look, including an intricate updo paired with full glam makeup.