Dear Ethel is the creative label of artist, crafter, costumier and dressmaker Meg Strode Dear Ethel is a queer friendly business.
Dear Ethel is the slow fashion label of Melbourne based costumier, dressmaker and designer Meg Strode. Meg is a lifelong creative and self-taught seamstress who found herself in the world of slow fashion and costume design after a 10 year career as a naturopath and herbalist. Born and bred in the heart of Fitzroy, her style sensibility is heavily influenced by the grit and glamour of the inner Mel
07/08/2025
A little sneak peak of a recent collaboration I have begun with my dear cousin , a truly unique and talented artist with a dream to bring her art to life in the form of cushion covers…this is the first of a series of one-of-a-kind cushions designed by Bria and embroidered/put together by yours truly . Congratulations for seeing this dream through, and being able to share with the world the first of many a wonderful cushion creation.
18/02/2025
Some gorgeous photos by of the talented circus artist in a original…
01/12/2024
Mallow, the most gorgeous, wholesome hobbit of them all 🥰…I’m so grateful for all my lovely clients that have placed orders with me this year, and in particular, this one for Steph for the 2024…
Changing careers mid-life, however strong the desire, can feel slightly terrifying at the best of times. This year in particular, has been a significant challenge, as it has been for many small businesses/sole traders in the creative industry - fortunately, the last 3 months have definitely restored some faith that I am making the right decision to continue to push through the fear and pursue this little dream of mine. Xo
26/09/2024
A large part of my time working as a clothing and costume designer is spent pattern making, a process requiring creativity, precision and plenty of maths, something I’m grateful that comes relatively easy to me…I’m currently in the process of designing and creating a pattern for a custom bridesmaid order, to be made up in the most deliciously soft lilac satin.
22/09/2024
Playing with some new techniques…having a go at some honeycomb hand smocking
21/09/2024
Delicious deadstock fabrics for a very fun custom order 😍
Currently have openings for new ready-to-wear and custom orders, so please don’t hesitate to reach out xo
21/08/2024
Back at the dye pot, more antique pink lace on the way…
04/08/2024
Sometimes working for yourself means spending Sunday at the studio…
15/07/2024
As sampling continues, we are getting very excited to introduce some of our new designs in the coming months…
04/07/2024
Details of our new p***y bow blouse sample, Edwina…
25/06/2024
Introducing the first sample of Beatrice, our delicate, soft flowing skirt, inspired by the elaborate petticoats of the late Victorian/early Edwardian eras. Featuring delicate pin-tucks and hand dyed lace details along with an elasticated waist band for optimum fit and comfort, this skirt works beautifully on its own, or paired with our gorgeous Betty bloomers.
PS it has pockets!
12/04/2024
Finally spending some time in my new studio space at , which I share with my dear sister-in-law .tagram 🥰…slowly playing with some new designs to add to our ready-to-wear collection.
This journey isn’t always an easy one, but when the inspiration hits, I feel like my younger self would be so proud of how far we’ve come!
