The Choker Necklace: Timeless Regency Accessories

Chokers (necklaces that sit tight to the throat) have been popular throughout history- including as a Regency accessory - from Anne Boleyn's famous "B", to Empress Sisi's simple black ribbon. Today they can be found made of anything from hemp to diamonds.

Chokers in the Regency

During Jane Austen's lifetime, chokers were worn in many forms, from this vintage Georgian aquamarine and diamond creation (above), tied on with ribbon, to strands of pearls, to a simple ribbon tied about the neck. During the French Revolution, female French expatriots used to wear a thin red ribbon choker as a silent testament to their own narrow escape and in memory of their many friends and family members who were not as lucky. Soon all of London wanted to wear the red ribbon, beginning one of the first times in history when a ribbon has been used as a gesture of solidarity and sympathy with a class of victims. Ribbon chokers might also be accented by a jeweled slide or cameo pin.

Here are a few images of chokers throughout history, from Anne Boleyn (1507-1536), to Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz (1744–1818) to Queen Victoria (1819–1901) and Mary of Teck (1867–1953) who preferred the style with ropes of pearls.

 Laura Boyle is an avid Regency enthusiast. Find more fashion information or purchase your own choker necklace from her shop, Austentation: Regency Accessories