I have always loved sewing, and with four children always seemed to be making something. I started to help out in school wardrobe, producing clothes for plays and other events, but there are two real difficulties with working in school wardrobes – lack of storage and poor maintenance. I began to take a few of the costumes home, mainly to store them in conditions where I could hang them up properly, keep them clean and dry, and I was away. I soon realised that there was a demand for quality clean clothes in first-class condition, for customers who demand a high standard, for theatrical use, but also for parties, murder mystery events and re-enactment events which the average fancy-dress shop just did not cater for.


I am fortunate in that I have some out-buildings at home. These were converted into a studio, and my collection began. I am still collecting, new items are being added monthly, if not weekly, and I am always on the look-out for that special item on my wish list.

I have found that period clothes for children seem to be particularly hard to find and I now have a good collection with clothes to fit various sizes in many periods.

I am now able to offer a personal service which includes advice and alterations. Rather than hiring a one-size-fits-all costume, you will be able to mix and match to get a combination of clothes which looks great, feels comfortable, and is suitable for your particular requirements.

A word about postage. I am happy to post, but this is a more complicated process than coming to my premises to hire. First, I need measurements for sizing, and you will be asked to provide various measurements, depending on the costume required. Posting takes time so you will need to be organised in advance, and I will have to charge extra for costumes if they are going to be out for more than a week. Then there is the question of weight. Some clothes and especially boots or shoes are heavy, and a hard hat (like a top hat or crown) will have to be sent in a box. This will add substantially to the cost of postage. Payment, including the deposit must be made before the costume is sent to you.

Having said all that, I have had many customers who have been prepared to accept the few extra conditions that posting involves and I have posted all over the country very successfully.