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Beloved owner of one of Hollywood’s last costume shops dies at 90

BBG News

Legendary Hollywood costume designer Ursula Boschet, known for adorning both stars and everyday people for over five decades, has passed away at the age of 90.

On Monday afternoon, Boschet passed away from pancreatic cancer, with her loved ones present at her home in Chatsworth, as a family representative confirmed.

For over five decades, Ursula’s Costumes thrived against the typical instability and unpredictability of the entertainment world, earning itself a cherished place in the local community. Over this span, Ursula approximated that she crafted well over 100,000 costumes for various television shows, movies, stage productions, and private clients.

Boschet earned a name for her skillfully designed, original sewing projects, and for maintaining a modest approach when interacting with celebrities.

Jamie Lee Curtis expressed that she was extraordinary and deeply significant in our family’s existence. With a heart for creativity, she will be dearly missed,” stated Jamie Lee Curtis during her conversation with The Times, reflecting on Ursula’s Costumes, a place she has frequented for over 30 years.

Over a period of more than two decades, Kathleen Uris, one of Boschet’s long-term clients in the costuming field, characterized her experience as learning from an exceptional master craftsman.

Hollywood Inc.

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‘I couldn’t pay the rent anymore’: One of Hollywood’s last costume shops is closing

Veteran costume designer Ursula Boschet, active for almost five decades, is now closing her business due to the double impact of the pandemic and a sluggish Hollywood. At the age of 90, these unforeseen circumstances have made it necessary for her to shut down.

Beyond her acting roles on shows like “Cagney & Lacey” throughout the ’80s, Boschet also gained recognition as a popular costume designer for various events in Los Angeles, such as the yearly Labyrinth Masquerade Ball at the Biltmore Hotel.

For several decades, there were long queues down the street every October, as the store extended its operating hours to cater to an influx of customers for Halloween, staying open seven days a week.

Over time, numerous clients of hers felt more like cherished relatives, and the walls of her shop are adorned with dozens of signed photographs from famous actors such as Bruce Willis and Curtis, each one personally dedicated to her.

In a natural, easy-to-understand manner: She designed costumes for Arnold Schwarzenegger and Maria Shriver’s kids. When Michael Keaton visited the store with his pet dog following his role in “Batman,” she claimed to have created a miniature Batman costume for the animal.

Steve Martin, during their collaboration on the 1984 film “All of Me,” asked her to design secret pockets within his suits for use in one of his magic routines where he would mysteriously produce objects like scarves, eggs, or even a phone from the invisible pocket in his trousers. In the early ’90s, he was famously known as The Great Flydini, who astonished audiences by extracting items such as scarves, eggs, and telephones from an illusionary fly residing within his pants.

Every spring, starting from April, Curtis remembered making annual trips to the store for consultations with Boschet regarding his family’s Halloween outfits.

Curtis shared that we spent a lot of time brainstorming ideas for this year’s costumes, including accessories. He was amazed by her extensive knowledge and ability to create something from virtually nothing.

As Curtis’ youngest child took interest in gaming and cosplay, Boschet emerged as a crucial supporter.

Reflecting upon the educators who recognized and nurtured my children’s unique talents, there is no doubt that Ursula stands out among them. Her influence on our family has been profound, particularly in working with our daughter. Truly, she possesses a quality that sets her apart – she is extraordinary.

Regardless of numerous health issues, this tiny woman in her nineties had been frequenting her namesake store and workshop in Santa Monica, putting in around five full days each week, for up to ten hours daily, until quite recently.

Last summer, Boschet revealed her intention to close the business, as a series of troubles within the industry had arisen, such as the pandemic and labor disputes. Additionally, she mentioned her advanced age and health concerns, and the fact that none of her children showed interest in taking over the business.

She informed The Times that there was no income, which left her unable to meet her rental obligations and cover other expenses.

The news left her with countless customers feeling devastated. “I’m heartbroken,” said Kate Beckinsale last July, explaining that “Ursula” has been one of her longest connections in Los Angeles, even longer than her marriage.

Beckinsale visited approximately once a month to select and borrow costumes for personal use, as well as for her friends and relatives.

18-year-old Maria Boschet, born in Stuttgart, Germany in 1934, grew up with a butcher as her father and a homemaker for a mother. At the tender age of 14, she honed her skills in dressmaking and tailoring. In the year 1952, she tied the knot with her barber husband.

In the aftermath of World War II, with much of Germany lying in ruins, they struggled to make ends meet and eventually moved to Canada in 1957.

For approximately half a decade in Toronto, Boschet was employed at a vast sock manufacturing facility. After relocating as a couple to Los Angeles, she found work involving multiple theater performances. Subsequently, she became a member of the Theatrical Costume Union, which led her to various film studios.

In 1973, she found employment at Disney, renting a space within Culver Studios (now known by that name). Her main duties were creating costumes for Disney on Parade. When the parade assignments ceased after three years, she opted to establish her own clothing and costume enterprise.

Following the announcement of Ursula’s Costumes shutting down last summer, Boschet started liquidating the store’s extensive collection. This inventory spanned every era and style of costumes and accessories, making it a treasure trove for enthusiasts. Over time, many of her loyal customers visited the shop to bid farewell and acquire a piece of costume heritage.

The shop will close for good this Saturday.

Boschet leaves behind her daughter, Ela Steere, as well as her son, Richard Boschet. Additionally, she has three grandchildren and six great-grandchildren who will carry on her legacy.

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2025-02-27 04:01

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