Children’s fashion faux pas from centuries past will take centre stage at a special event in Leeds, shining a spotlight on the awkward and often amusing outfits young people have been made to wear throughout history.
Hosted at Lotherton, the talk invites visitors to explore the enduring tradition of dressing children like miniature adults, particularly for family portraits. Attendees will get an up-close look at some of the more peculiar and impractical styles imposed on youngsters over the past 500 years. The event is part of Lotherton’s ongoing Fashion at Play exhibition, which traces the evolution of children’s clothing from the 1600s to the present day.
One of the most striking outfits under the spotlight will be featured in the famous 1611 portrait Child with Rattle, which has undergone special conservation for its appearance in the exhibition. The painting shows a toddler, now identified as Henry Frederick Howard, who would go on to become the third Earl of Arundel, born in 1608.
Clad in an elaborate silk gown, complete with a lace neck ruff, ornate lace hat, and a finely crafted lace apron, the young boy’s extravagant attire was designed to reflect his family’s affluence and social standing. Other eye-catching, and often questionable, outfits explored during the event include those worn by siblings Elizabeth and Edward, captured in a portrait dating from around 1740.
Among the more memorable outfits featured is a portrait of 12-year-old Edward, dressed to resemble a refined adult gentleman. Wearing a tailored suit, a voluminous wig, and even holding a ceremonial dress sword, his attire reflects the era’s desire to present children as miniature versions of their elders.
Other highlights include a charming image of a father and son in Wakefield, both dressed in suits and riding matching penny-farthing bicycles; a fashion plate from a Victorian women’s magazine circa 1885; and a meticulously posed photograph of a mother and daughter from the 1860s, both clad in formal dress.
Adding to the visual spectacle is a photo album capturing the grandeur of a children’s fancy dress ball held at Leeds Town Hall on January 12, 1891. Hosted by then-mayor and mayoress Mr. and Mrs. Alf Cooke, the event saw nearly 400 children from affluent families in attendance, each adorned in elaborate and imaginative costumes.
Natalie Raw, Leeds Museums and Galleries’ curator of costume and textiles said:
“The long tradition of children wearing grown up outfits is one that has clearly endured for hundreds of years, with youngsters of all ages being styled to essentially look like miniature versions of their parents. The reasons for this have varied, from wanting to convey wealth and status in aristocratic circles, to a simple expression of affection between parents and their children.
“Unfortunately for the children depicted in some of these family portraits, it’s probably fair to say they wouldn’t have chosen these outfits for themselves. Nevertheless, they do still tell us a lot about the evolution of children’s fashions and styles and how much they reflect wider trends over the years.”
Councillor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council’s executive member for adult social care, active lifestyles and culture said:
“It’s fascinating to see how the story of fashion, costumes and textiles in Leeds and beyond has developed over the centuries and to have so many remarkable images and objects in our collection which help tell that story so well.
“Our exhibitions and events are the perfect way to get an up-close look at some of these wonderful exhibits and to find out more about the lesser known aspects of what is an amazing facet of our local heritage.”
Fashion at Play will be at Lotherton until October 12, 2025. For more details, please visit: Fashion at Play | Days out and Exhibitions
