Exhibition: Support and Seduction, Snibston Discovery Museum, Snibston, from May 28 2011In an exhibition featuring an inflatable bra from the 1950s, a corset busk stamped with a secret love message and female corsets from the 1770s, titillation is the obvious sell given the prevalence of risqué fashion shows.
But there are also sound economic reasons why Leicestershire should treasure its internationally-renowned collection of smalls from both sexes – companies such as Wolsey, Symington and Corah’s have been crucial local employment hubs, and recent garments from Next’s current lingerie reel reflect the chain’s base in the region.
“It has been vital to Leicestershire’s local economy,” observes the County Council’s David Sprason, who says fashion design courses at the nearby De Montfort University could provide the next generation of innovative undies geniuses.
“Snibston holds one of the finest collections of fashion and clothing outside of London.”
- Open 10am-5pm. Admission £4.75-£6.95 (free for under-3s, family ticket £21-£25).
