Ursula Boschet, the beloved Hollywood costume designer, whose iconic shop dressed celebrities and locals alike for over 50 years, has passed away at the age of 90. She succumbed to pancreatic cancer on Monday, surrounded by her family at her home in Chatsworth. Ursula’s Costumes, her cherished establishment, became a staple in the community, providing costumes for TV shows, movies, plays, and individual clients.
A Legacy of Creativity and Dedication
Throughout her illustrious career, Ursula Boschet crafted over 100,000 costumes, solidifying her reputation for high-quality, imaginative designs. Despite working with numerous celebrities, she remained humble and dedicated to her craft. Actress Jamie Lee Curtis, a longtime client and friend, fondly remembered Ursula as an integral part of her family’s life, praising her passion for creativity.
Kathleen Uris, a fellow costumer who collaborated with Boschet for more than two decades, described her as a “genius costumer” and a mentor. Boschet’s work extended beyond the entertainment industry; she was the go-to designer for various costume parties in Los Angeles, including the annual Labyrinth Masquerade Ball.
A Personal Touch and Lasting Impact
Ursula Boschet’s personal touch extended beyond her professional endeavors. Many clients became like family, with the walls of her store adorned with autographed photos from actors she worked with, including Bruce Willis and Jamie Lee Curtis. She even created costumes for Arnold Schwarzenegger and Maria Shriver’s children, as well as a miniature Batman outfit for Michael Keaton’s dog.
Steve Martin, whom she met while working on his film “All of Me,” trusted her to design hidden suit pockets for one of his magic acts. Her dedication to her craft and attention to detail earned her a special place in the hearts of her clients. Jamie Lee Curtis recounted yearly visits to the shop with her family to plan their Halloween costumes, highlighting Ursula’s vast knowledge and creativity.
A Bittersweet Farewell
Despite health challenges, Ursula Boschet continued to work tirelessly at her store in Santa Monica until last summer. Facing industry setbacks, including the pandemic and labor strikes, she made the difficult decision to close her shop due to financial constraints and lack of successors. The news of Ursula’s retirement saddened many, including actress Kate Beckinsale, who considered her a close friend.
Ursula Boschet’s journey began in Stuttgart, Germany, where she honed her sewing skills at a young age. After emigrating to Canada and later settling in Los Angeles, she built a thriving career in costume design, leaving a lasting impact on the entertainment industry. As she bids farewell to her beloved shop, Ursula’s legacy lives on through the countless lives she touched and the memories she created.
The memories of Ursula Boschet’s timeless creations and unwavering dedication will continue to inspire generations of costume designers and enthusiasts alike. Her legacy as a creative visionary and beloved community figure will forever remain etched in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing her.
Ursula Boschet is survived by her daughter, Ela Steere, her son, Richard Boschet, three grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren. As her shop prepares to close its doors for the final time this Saturday, the impact of her work and spirit will endure for years to come.
