The bride wore red and pink . . .

Her bold red and pink striped silk damask dress is now on show at an unusual wedding exhibition at the Bowes Museum, in Barnard Castle, County Durham.

It also features in a pocket guidebook published to help visitors enjoy and understand the display.

Author Joanna Hashagen, who is keeper of textiles at the museum, said of the red and pink dress: "The fabric would have been very expensive and the colour is perhaps an unusual choice to be married in, but it is a cheerful choice for a November day."

Christiana's marriage was in Gloucester, and other dresses in the display - which is called Wedding Belles, Two Centuries of Bridal Fashion - have been gathered from families all over Britain.

Mrs Hashagen said: "This collection reflects a wide social range, from elaborate, high society weddings in London to simpler ceremonies in the mining villages of County Durham."

Another gown that might seem unusual on a modern bride was the brown silk outfit worn by Margaret Henderson for her marriage to Edward Childs at Seaham Harbour, County Durham, in March 1901, after being worn by her mother in 1876.

"The colour may have been chosen for its general usefulness, as the dress has been well worn. Working brides were advised in the magazines of the day to choose practical outfits in dark colours, to be worn with hats rather than veils," said Mrs Hashagen.

Many of the early creations were chosen so that they could be used for other occasions

Another stunning dress was worn by Ruby Pattinson for her wedding to Dr William Gale, a Teesdale GP, at Low Fell in September 1938.

The dress of cream lace was made of synthetic fibre, embroidered with silver bugle beads, and with a cream rayon underslip.

The most modern dress in the guidebook is a white nylon gown worn by Judith Hood for her wedding to David Chibbet at St Cuthbert's Church, Darlington, in July 1969.

The exhibition continues until April 18. The guidebook costs £5.

Published: 13/01/2004