Ethan Bartholomew - ESBA Studios

Background

I’m Ethan Bartholomew, founder of ESBA Studios. Originally from the East Anglian countryside, I’m now based in London, working in fashion as an accessories and leather goods developer.

Early Interest in Fashion

My interest in fashion sparked around age 11/12 when my dad, who ran my football team, asked me to design ideas for the new season’s kit. That was my first creative spark.

Journey into Fashion

After A-levels, unsure which creative path to take, I completed a three-year apprenticeship at a local graphic design firm. There, I designed logos, uniforms, and merch, experimenting with printing and production after hours—this experience confirmed my passion for fashion.

Brand Identity & Design Philosophy

Starting the Brand

During my final year at university, we were encouraged to create a brand for our graduate collection. I drew inspiration from East Anglian folklore, which naturally shaped ESBA Studios’ identity and aesthetics.

Unique Design Point

Sustainability is central to my work. Fabrics for my final collection were deadstock/excess stock, and our jewellery uses 100% recycled silver. I want to create new art while minimising environmental impact.

Inspiration & Creative Process

Recent Collection

My graduate collection drew from local folklore: the Black Shuck, a large wolf-like hound, inspired fur pieces, while the Mermaid of Sheringham influenced a chain dress mimicking scales.

Creative Process

I start with sketches, experimenting with copies by altering length and volume, then drape ideas onto a mannequin to visualise them. Once a prototype is made, I refine the design with additional details or changes.

Experience for the Wearer

I want people to feel part of a story when wearing my pieces—admiring the design while engaging with the folklore inspiration behind it.

Industry Experience & Challenges

Emerging Designer Challenges

Time and money are the biggest challenges. Working full-time while funding my brand makes consistent production difficult. Commuting also limits my creative hours during the week.

Balancing Creativity and Commerce

My professional experience as a product developer has taught me the importance of commercial viability, shaping how I approach my own designs.

Proud Moments

Showcasing my graduate collection alongside fellow students was a defining moment—culminating four years of creative growth and collaboration.

Collaboration & Creative Teams

Building a Team for Shoots

I reach out to creatives whose work I admire. For my graduate shoot, I collaborated with an undergraduate photographer who coordinated the studio and equipment. We aligned on the aesthetic together.

Creative Direction

I normally lead creative direction, while incorporating collaborative input from photographers, stylists, and other creatives involved.

Visibility & COLABO’s Role

It’s hard to stand out among graduating designers. COLABO can help stylists and photographers quickly find designers with a specific aesthetic, increasing exposure and streamlining selection.

Vision, Influence & Aspirations

Dream Collaborations & Locations

I currently work at Victoria Beckham, gaining invaluable experience. Ultimately, I’d love to live and work in Italy for its lifestyle, scenery, and inspiration.

What’s Next

I’m developing a jewellery collection for ESBA Studios, currently in the prototype stage, with plans to release pieces by the end of the year.