The shop, known as “Boschet’s,” is a haven for those seeking to transform themselves into their favorite characters, whether it’s a superhero, a historical figure, or a fictional creation. Boschet’s has become a cultural touchstone, attracting celebrities, artists, and everyday people alike. It’s a place where imagination runs wild, where costumes are not just accessories but integral parts of the identity.
Maggie Shannon for NPR / Boschet is closing shop after nearly half a century in business. Boschet has been designing clothing and costumes for as long as she can remember. “It’s just my thing,” she says. She became a tailor at 14 years old, in post-war Germany. She still has a thick, Stuttgart accent. “I learned everything in Europe. Everybody had a trade back then,” she says. She and her late husband, Herman Boschet, both immigrated to the United States in 1962. Herman began a custom-framing business, and Ursula designed costumes for theater companies, Hollywood studios and even for Disney parades. In 1976, she opened her costume store in Culver City, before moving the business about 30 years ago to Santa Monica, where it still stands today.
The store owner, a woman named Sarah, is passionate about her craft and has a deep understanding of the history of costume design. She is also a skilled seamstress and has a keen eye for detail. The store, “The Costume Closet,” is a haven for costume enthusiasts and professionals alike. It offers a wide range of costumes, from everyday wear to elaborate theatrical productions.
These are not just decorations; they are a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to authenticity. Each animal head is meticulously carved from wood, and the restaurant’s founder, a renowned woodcarver, personally oversaw the creation of each one. The restaurant’s menu is a vibrant tapestry of flavors and textures, reflecting the diverse culinary traditions of the Middle East and North Africa.
She grows nostalgic as she flips through the pages of a lookbook, many of which feature old photos of Herman and Ursula dressed as Cleopatra and Marc Antony, Morticia Addams, and Herman’s favorite: Quasimodo from The Hunchback of Notre Dame. “We did everything you could think of,” she says. Maggie Shannon for NPR / Ghoulish masks of famous political figures, ornately beaded headpieces and props hang from the walls and ceiling. Customers can come in and share their ideas with Boschet, and she helps them bring that vision to life. Even when Herman would protest wearing a costume to a party, Ursula says she would lay one out for him, and when he’d return home from work, “he didn’t say a word.” He would put on the costume “and he would have the most fun,” she laughs. “Because costumes are fun! You can be whatever you want.”
This preference for bespoke experience is a key factor driving Boschet’s success. The company’s focus on personalized service and high-quality materials has helped it stand out in a crowded market. The company’s success is also attributed to its strong brand identity and its ability to connect with customers on a personal level.
The shop, located in the heart of the city, was a beloved local institution, known for its vast selection of costumes and its friendly, welcoming atmosphere. It was a place where people could find everything they needed for any occasion, from everyday wear to elaborate theatrical productions. Ursula’s Costumes was more than just a shop; it was a community hub.
Copyright 2024 NPR