New exhibition tells the tale of children’s fancy fashions

With fascinating and sometimes bizarre objects spanning hundreds of years, the exhibition looks at the clothes worn by babies through to teens and what they say about society’s altering attitudes to children and growing up.

Although many of the garments might look uncomfortable by today’s standards, visitors will discover how practicality has always been important when it comes to dressing young children. The onesie, for example, is not as modern as some might think.

On display is a ‘Little Lord Fauntleroy’ style all-in-one outfit from the 1880’s, the equivalent of onesies worn by children today. Back then known as a skeleton suit, it was introduced in the late 1700’s as an in-between garment for boys, being more grown up than baby clothes but more comfortable for play than the fitted breaches worn by men.

As well as children’s fashion, the exhibition also explores changing attitudes to maternity wear. One such item is a dress worn for feeding nearly 200 years ago. Although it might look like a typically restrictive dress from the 1830’s, a closer look reveals it has been adapted for a mother to breastfeed her baby through a cleverly concealed opening.

The dress also reveals other signs of motherhood, particularly changing body shape, as the waist has been taken in and let out several times.

Natalie Raw, Leeds Museums and Galleries’ curator of dress and textiles said: “Looking back at children’s fashions through the ages can tell us a lot, not only about different styles and trends, but also how attitudes to parenting and family life have changed over time.

“There are many incredible items on show telling the story of family life, not least the feeding dress that I’m sure many mums today would shake their heads at!”

Another star on display is a vintage Little Bo Peep costume proudly worn by a Leeds girl more than 120 years ago. Records show the beautiful, dainty garment was Gladys Redman’s fancy dress outfit when she attended a prestigious chapel concert, held in Leeds in 1900.

Throughout the exhibition spaces are also family friendly activities where visitors can get dressed up and pose for a portrait or have their say on school uniforms.

Councillor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council’s executive member for adult social care, active lifestyles and culture, said: “This is a fascinating exhibition that really makes you think about how much children’s fashion has changed over the years, but also how the influence of some historical garments can still be seen today.

“It’s great to see many items local to Leeds as well, like the vintage Bo Peep dress worn by a Leeds girl, and a beautiful Ghanaian baby wrap on loan from a local family.”

Fashion at Play will be on display in Lotherton Hall from March 1 to October 12, 2025 and entry is included in general admission. For more details, please visit: Fashion at Play | Leeds Museums and Galleries |.

ENDS