Today we’d like to introduce you to Ezra Ethetton.
Hi Ezra, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
I loved dressing up when I was younger, making my own Halloween costumes every year, and wearing eccentric fashion to high school. I aspired to be a costume designer for film, inspired by Colleen Atwood (Sweeney Todd, Alice in Wonderland) and Sandy Powell (Cinderella, Hugo). Straight out of high school, I took several positions at costume companies for theatre and even had the opportunity to train under a master tailor! It grew increasingly into a wearable art form, and as I posted my finished outfits online, I got more support. I ended up starting my own business, becoming a one-person band. I work one-on-one with brides and grooms, actors, dancers, and people just looking for comfortable, made-to-order garments.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
There have been a few bumps, for sure. Putting myself out there can be terrifying because I sew and design with my whole heart on display. Thankfully, this only adds to the bespoke experience my friends and clients love! In an industry historically notorious for underpaying, pricing myself at what I’m worth always looks “wrong,” especially when comparing myself against fashion giants like Shien, Temu, or even Walmart. Many don’t know how refreshing it is to have a custom-made garment that will last a lifetime. I try to avoid manufacturers that utilize underpaid labor and sweatshops, but it’s often impossible to know. You would be astonished at how many people live alone in the United States.
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
In short, I make clothes. But it’s so much more than that. I have been trained in bespoke tailoring, theatrical costumes, dancewear, and historical garments. I will learn if I don’t know how to create the look. It fills me with joy when I can bring fashion dreams to reality. As a queer person, I pride myself on being a safe place, making sure guests and clients feel heard and seen while respecting boundaries. No matter the body type, gender, or age, everyone deserves to feel themselves in their clothing.
The crisis has affected us all in different ways. How has it affected you, and can you share any important lessons or epiphanies with us?
Even though my shop opened in 2022, I needed help getting walk-in customers. Being one-on-one with my clients is much more essential for my work, so being mostly appointment-only has been fantastic!
Pricing:
- Wedding Gowns — ~$900-$2000
- Three-Piece Suits — ~$900-$1200
- Tops — ~$100-$300
- Pants — ~$200-$400
- Skirts — ~$100-$400
Contact Info:
- Website: www.ezraoctober.com
- Instagram: Ezra.October
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/Ezraoctobercostumes
- TikTok: Ezra.october
Image Credits
Models include Jac, Jevon, and Joni.
