Graysons, property lawyer Meriet Watts conjured up the eye-catching undergarments whilst colleague – fellow property lawyer Lacey Bates-Blinkho – did everything from styling Bess of Hardwick’s hair to creating a hand-made medieval bible.

Graysons Solicitors has put its weight behind the Fame, Fashion and Fortune project which was officially unveiled at Bolsover Church a few days ago.

It is one of the most ambitious projects in Bolsover’s recent history and has attracted nearly £50,000 in National Lottery Funding.

The initiative is set to tell the stories of eleven historic women of Bolsover who shaped, changed and improved the world – stretching right back to Bess of Hardwick and Avicia de Lancaster.

The three-year-long Fame, Fashion and Fortune project culminates in a touring exhibition, celebratory booklet, performances, website, events and more.

Scores of volunteers led by Amanda Boler are already working tirelessly to re-create the costumes worn by the influential women who feature in the project.

Graysons has sponsored the three-year project.

Belinda Lancaster, partner at Graysons, said:

“We’re a firm with a long and proud history of championing the careers of women. To be involved in Fame, Fashion and Fortune is a great privilege and we’re proud to have the opportunity to help tell the inspiring stories of these great women who helped shape our region.”

Other women set to feature in the exhibition include Lady Arbella Stuart, noblewoman who was considered a possible successor to Queen Elizabeth I of England; Lady Ottoline Violet Anne Morrell, English aristocrat and society hostess; and Avicia de Lancaster who laid the foundations for the first Bolsover Church.

The project has also received grant support from Derbyshire Community Foundation.