Museum appeals for male costumes for exhibition

The exhibition gallery, with a case of wedding accessories and christening gowns

A new exhibition of historical costume in Nottinghamshire is appealing for help - in finding some men's clothing.

The exhibition, Threads of Time, runs until October and showcases items from Mansfield Museum’s collection of costume and textiles.

Highlights include a Women’s Suffrage banner from before World War One, theatre costumes and dresses representing a century of Mansfield weddings.

However organisers said while they have many examples of women's wedding dresses, they have nothing for men's formal attire and are hoping someone may have heirlooms to loan.

The exhibition has a selection of wedding dresses, including a lace and taffeta example worn in 1969.

Exhibition curator Anja Thompson-Rohde, said: “The items on show reveal fascinating stories and bring to life some of the people who lived and worked in the district before us.

“However, there are also stories which aren’t represented by the current collection, and we would be very happy if the exhibition prompts offers of donation which help tell those stories.

"We’d love some items of men’s occasion wear, for instance - we have lots of wedding dresses but not one single item worn by a bridegroom."

Tops worn by St John Ambulance, a marching band and council leisure workers also feature

She added they were also interested in historic everyday clothing and items from diverse communities.

Stuart Richardson, Mansfield District Council's portfolio holder for regeneration and growth, said: “Mansfield Museum has some fantastic items of social history in its extensive collection which reflect the district’s heritage of making clothing.

"These items remain in storage most of the time so it’s great that exhibitions such as this are able to bring some of these artefacts out from time to time for their moment in the spotlight."

Anyone who may have items to donate are asked to contact the museum.

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