Laois Heritage Society has announced an exciting upcoming event, celebrating the fashion and etiquette of Laois' Regency era.

In celebration of the 250th anniversary of Jane Austen's birth, Laois Heritage Society will host Dr Melissa Shiels, who will present a costumed talk on the clothing and daily activities of elite women in the Regency period.

Taking place in Portlaoise, the talk will highlight the hair and beauty regime of a Regency lady, the underpinnings she wore for visiting and practicing her accomplishments, and for the most opulent of occasions - going to the ball!

Pictured: Dr Melissa Shiels will demonstrate the fashion and etiquette of Ireland's regency period

The talk will finish with a fascinating demonstration of tea etiquette from the period.

Dr Shiels has a doctorate in history from UCC. She specialises in re-creating the clothing of the past and provides costumed talks to people of all ages and at all levels of academic engagement.

She covers a vast array of historical eras from Early Christian Ireland to the Victorian period and has over 20 years’ experience in providing costumed talks in schools, libraries, public and private museums, public festivals, literary festival, documentaries, and television shows.

Pictured: Dr Melissa Shiels

"This event will delight anyone with an interest in the history of fashion, period drama, literature of Jane Austen and the ‘Big Houses’ of Laois in the Regency era, such as Abbeyleix House, Emo Court, Heywood House, Ballyfin House, Stradbally Hall and
Castle Durrow," organisers said.

"This event is free to society members and €5 to non-members- all are welcome!" they finished.

Join Dr Shiels and Laois Heritage Society on Thursday, October 23 at 7pm in the Midland Park Hotel.

Read Next: Laois households spend €16m on solar panels