Historic costume gives a little peep at children’s fancy fashions

Although the dress later became part of the Leeds Museums and Galleries collection, years of enthusiastic wear and tear by its former owner had sadly taken their toll.

But now, thanks to a restoration project supported by The Friends of Leeds City Museums, the newly restored dress will be one of the star exhibits in Fashion at Play, an exhibition opening at Lotherton in the spring, exploring the fascinating story of children’s fashions through the ages.

Gladys’ costume was bought from Mrs Walter Sugden, a specialist children’s clothing shop, established in 1861 on Commercial Street, Leeds.

The shop sold baby linen and other ready to wear children’s clothing as well as women’s fashions and fancy dress costumes.

Fancy dress balls and parties became extremely popular in the 1800s for both adults and children, with guest donning elaborate, elegant and expensive outfits.

An album of photographs, which will also be on display as part of the exhibition,  documents a spectacular children’s fancy dress ball hosted at Leeds Town Hall by the mayor and mayoress of Leeds, Mr and Mrs Alf Cooke, on January 12, 1891.

Nearly 400 children from well-to do -families attended, with each child dressed in a beautiful costume depicting everything from fairytale characters to famous figures from history.

Natalie Raw, Leeds Museums and Galleries’ curator of costume, said: “Fancy dress played a big role in the party scene for both children and adults in the 19^th century, and it’s clear that the tailor made, extravagant outfits they wore were not only great fun but a bit of a status symbol too.

“We’re particularly happy to see the costume little Gladys Redman celebrated in more than 120 years ago restored and ready to go on display. It tells its own unique story about children’s tailoring in Leeds and gives us a real, tangible link to those amazing parties and occasions.

“Looking back at children’s fashions through the ages can tell us a lot about not only different styles and trends, but also how attitudes to parenting, growing up and family life have changed over time too.”

Launching in March 2025, Fashion at Play will explore the history of children’s fashion from the 1600s to the modern day.

Other objects on display will examine the changing styles worn by babies, children and teenagers and look at how they continue to influence modern trends.

Councillor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council’s executive member for adult social care, active lifestyles and culture, said: “Leeds has such a rich and proud history in the fashion and textiles industries, and it’s great to see that being explored through our wonderful museums collection.

“By preserving, restoring and displaying these objects for visitors, we can inspire them to think about the story and heritage of Leeds and how these industries have influenced the city we know today.”

Fashion at Play will be at Lotherton from March 1, 2025. For more details, please visit: Fashion at Play | Leeds Museums and Galleries | Days out and exhibitions

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