Bridgerton is back, wildly unconventional literary adaptations are everywhere, and an Austen takeover is on the horizon. For period-drama fans, 2026 is shaping up to be a year to remember. Here are seven releases to catch on screens big and small.
Agatha Christie’s Seven Dials (Netflix, January 15)
In slippery cocktail dresses, creamy knits, tweed, and checked cloche hats, BAFTA-winning Mia McKenna-Bruce stars as the whip-smart, gin-swilling Lady Eileen “Bundle” Brent. Her life as a 1920s London socialite is upended when a wild party triggers a murderous chain of events. She’s joined by Martin Freeman, Corey Mylchreest, Edward Bluemel, and Nabhaan Rizwan in sharp suits, plus Helena Bonham Carter as her eccentrically dressed mother. Adapted by Chris Chibnall, this three-part mystery is a reassuringly old-school potboiler full of witty quips and startling twists.
Bridgerton: Season 4 (Netflix, January 29)
The costumes in Jess Brownell’s series grow more lavish each season. Returning favorites like Nicola Coughlan and Simone Ashley will dazzle in jewels and embroidered gowns, while new arrivals bring fresh excitement. Yerin Ha appears as Sophie, the masked debutante who catches Benedict Bridgerton’s eye in a shimmering silver gown. Katie Leung joins as the villainous Lady Araminta Gun in sleek widow’s garb, and her daughters (Michelle Mao and Isabella Wei) stun in diamonds, sequins, and extravagant lace ruffles.
Wuthering Heights (In Theaters February 13)
From just a few trailers and photos, Jacqueline Durran’s delightfully outlandish costumes have already sparked endless conversation. Think puff sleeves studded with Chanel jewelry, a gold-cross funeral gown, milkmaid cosplay, shiny red latex, and Elton John sunglasses. While we’re eager for Margot Robbie’s Cathy and Jacob Elordi’s Yorkshire accent, the clothes alone are reason enough to watch Emerald Fennell’s madcap adaptation.
The Bride! (In Theaters March 6)
Maggie Gyllenhaal takes a wild turn from The Lost Daughter with this stylized thriller set in 1930s Chicago. Jessie Buckley stars as a reimagined bride of Frankenstein in floaty silks, leather jackets, lace thigh-highs, and black-stained lips. She’s joined by Christian Bale as the monster in pinstripe vests, a dapper Jake Gyllenhaal and Peter Sarsgaard, and a vampy Penélope Cruz. It’s a mind-bending ride sure to inspire next Halloween’s costumes.
Sense & Sensibility (In Theaters September 11)
Costume designer Grace Snell brings bonnets, empire-waist gowns, and velvet coats to this wistful update of Jane Austen’s beloved novel. Following in the footsteps of Ang Lee’s 1995 classic, the film is directed by Georgia Oakley, written by Diana Reid, and stars Daisy Edgar-Jones, Esmé Creed-Miles, Caitríona Balfe, and Frank Dillane.Starring George MacKay and Fiona Shaw, this film promises to be a quieter, more traditional, and poetic period piece than many of its showier counterparts—and all the better for it.
The Other Bennett Sister (TBA)
Austen fever continues with this fresh take on the author’s world: a spirited adaptation of Janice Hadlow’s page-turner by Sarah Quintrell (The Power), shifting the focus to Pride & Prejudice‘s often-overlooked middle sister, Mary Bennet (played by Ella Bruccoleri of Bridgerton). Joined by Richard E. Grant, Indira Varma, Ruth Jones, and Tanya Reynolds—with Laurie Davidson (The Girlfriend) and Dónal Finn (The Wheel of Time) as potential suitors—the story follows Mary as she boldly carves her own path in a society that sidelines her. The costumes, while more serious than in some Austen adaptations, are no less lavish: think riotously patterned, lace-trimmed coats; feathered hats; silk frocks; and heavy, Indian-inspired jewelry.
Pride & Prejudice (TBA)
And then there’s the classic itself, revived in extraordinary fashion by writer Dolly Alderton (Everything I Know About Love), featuring Emma Corrin as a steely Elizabeth Bennet, Jack Lowden as a dashing Mr. Darcy, and Olivia Colman as a flighty Mrs. Bennet. The production’s meticulous attention to detail is clear from the first stills: Elizabeth’s rebellious spirit shines through the distinctive cut of her wool coat; Mary’s individuality is visible in her soft hat and the sloped, unstructured shoulders of her cape; and Lydia’s glamour and ambition are hinted at with a lemon-colored ribbon and bright yellow gloves. This adaptation may well rival Joe Wright’s gloriously costumed 2005 version.
Frequently Asked Questions
Of course Here is a list of helpful FAQs about the topic Looking for a touch of historical elegance Here are seven stylish period dramas to add to your 2026 watchlist
General Beginner Questions
Q What exactly is a period drama
A Its a film or TV show set in a specific historical time period often focusing on the costumes manners and social issues of that era Think elaborate dresses grand estates and stories of romance or intrigue
Q Why should I watch period dramas if Im not a history buff
A Theyre not just history lessons They offer stunning visuals compelling human stories and a complete escape into a different world The style and elegance are a big part of the appeal
Q Are all period dramas slow and boring
A Not at all While some are deliberate many are fastpaced with high stakesfull of scandal political scheming witty dialogue and epic romance It depends on the specific show
Q Where can I usually stream these kinds of shows
A Popular platforms include Netflix Hulu Amazon Prime Video HBO Max and specialty services like PBS Masterpiece or BritBox
Questions About the Specific 2026 List
Q Why are you recommending shows for 2026 already
A These are likely upcoming or recently announced productions slated for release in 2026 Getting them on your radar early helps you remember to look for them when they premiere
Q What kind of stylish period dramas are on the list
A Without the specific list stylish typically means productions with exceptional attention to costume design set decoration and cinematography They might focus on fashioncentric stories or visually opulent periods like the Regency Victorian or Roaring Twenties
Q Will the list include diverse stories and perspectives
A Modern period dramas are increasingly focusing on untold stories The 2026 list might include narratives from different cultures social classes or perspectives often left out of traditional history
Practical Advanced Tips
Q How can I find out when these 2026 dramas are actually released
A Follow entertainment news sites set Google alerts for period drama 2026 or follow the social media accounts of networks