A RARE opportunity to see a personal collection of historical costumes being worn is taking place tomorrow.

The fashion show at St Mary-at-Finchley Parish Hall, in Hendon Lane, will help raise money for the church's organ appeal.

Frances Musker, formerly a lecturer at the Victoria and Albert Museum, will present her collection of historic costumes dating from 1740 to 1940.

Organisers said each outfit will be described in its historical context to provide a picture of how fashions have changed and how styles and fabrics developed.

Alison Fisher, director of music at St Mary's, said: “Most costumes of this antiquity are kept in tissue paper in sealed boxes; the dresses in the collection are being looked after very carefully but Frances generously allows them to be worn once a year.”

The show will raise money to restore the church's historic pipe organ.

More than £100,000 has been collected for the work, which will involve renewing the electrics and repairing the leather bellows.

The 200 Years of Fashion event will take place from 6.30pm, and entry is free.