A woman who provides old clothes for costume dramas is visiting the island.

Maggie Harding of the Greta Harding Theatrical Clothing Company is here from February from today (Friday) until Tuesday seeking clothing from any era before the 1960s.

But she is particularly interested in original 1920s items.

With the start of the new decade there has been an increased demand for the style of the 1920s.

Maggie supplies clothing to theatres and film companies and has been visiting the Isle of Man for more than 40 years.

She said: ’The Isle of Man has proved to be a good hunting ground for antique and vintage clothing. Over the years I have had some great finds.

’This year I am mostly seeking garments and accessories from the 1920s and 30s, although I do look for earlier pieces and 1940s and 50s items are also welcome.

’The fabulous hand-knitted jumper shown in the photos dates from late 1920s and was purchased in Peel last year.’

Maggie has supplied 1920s clothing to film companies for Downton Abbey, Mr Selfridge, Peaky Blinders and supplies the Royal Exchange Theatre in Manchester and the Empire Theatre in Liverpool.

On her last visit to the island in September Maggie bought the brown shoes pictured [scroll along the photos on the right of the story], which will be used in a new Hercule Poirot drama being made for ITV.

The shoes were found in an attic in Douglas where they had been stored for many years.

One hundred years ago the world of fashion saw huge changes as clothing styles changed to suit the modern age.

Men wore less formal clothing and so the blazer and flannel trousers became popular.

With the coming of the car age more comfortable outfits were needed for driving, or cycling and so tweed suits and casual jackets were fashionable.

Women had been called to work during the First World War and so clothing changed to suit working habits.

Hemlines were shorter and less restrictive clothing was needed.

After the war with the start of the 1920s women had money to spend on clothing and accessories - and the ’flapper girl’ emerged.

Bright young women who worked, or came from rich families were enjoying a new freedom.

They cut their hair into short manageable styles and wore loose-fitting dresses and suits.

You can contact Maggie Harding on 07734 798522 to arrange for her to call and visit you. She can travel to any part of the island - or you can call to see her at the Palace Hotel in Douglas by appointment.