When it comes to the fashion world – especially in New York City – there are certain names that immediately come to mind. One of them is Esti’s. Open for decades, this iconic boutique has served a wide and discerning clientele, offering everything from refined everyday pieces to exquisite wedding gowns. Every item reflects uncompromising quality, crafted from the finest materials available.
Esti’s Takes Off
Esti’s was founded by Esti Burton at a pivotal moment in her life. As her family was growing, her husband made the courageous decision to leave his career as a physicist to pursue full-time Torah learning. Fully supporting his choice – and ready to step away from a demanding, travel-heavy career in publishing to focus on family – Esti opened her first store.
Though modest in size, only 900 square feet, that initial boutique successfully provided for her family and laid the foundation for what would become a lasting presence in New York fashion. Her modest store on Elm Avenue helped establish Esti as a pillar of New York fashion, and she now has a 10,000 square foot store on Coney Island Avenue.
What Sets Esti’s Apart
Over the years, Esti’s has become renowned for its curated selection of top designer brands from around the world. What sets the store apart is not only the caliber of designers it carries, but the thoughtful way fashion is adapted to each client’s needs. From T-shirts to wedding gowns, nearly every piece can be transformed – whether from sleeveless to fully modest or customized in other meaningful ways. Esti is also known for her remarkable attention to detail, even keeping track of who purchases what, to ensure clients within the same community never end up wearing the same outfit. Customers come to Esti’s seeking something unique – and they leave feeling confident, beautiful, and truly seen.
When asked about her favorite designers, Esti shared:
“I love designers who value exclusivity, such as Oscar de la Renta, Carolina Herrera, Jason Wu, Naeem Khan, Pamella Roland, Elie Saab, Georges Hobeika, and Zuhair Murad. I’m also always excited by young, emerging designers – some of whom I discovered on my last trip to Paris.”
Enter Anna Augusta
Following the store’s expansion and relocation to a new space, Esti met Anna Augusta – a moment that marked the beginning of a long and meaningful professional relationship. About twelve years ago, Anna and her business partner walked into the boutique seeking new opportunities. Esti recalls:
“Normally, when people come in looking for a job, I ask an employee to take their résumé. But something about them intrigued me, so I spoke with them directly.”
Anna shared that she had been an established fashion designer in her home country. Recognizing her talent, Esti gave her an opportunity. Reflecting on their collaboration, Esti said:
“She truly knows her craft. Working with Anna has given me so many opportunities to learn from her critical eye – she notices a fitting issue before the wearer ever does. She listens carefully to each client’s preferences and executes them flawlessly. Watching her work is like watching a master at her art. Her skills are rare, and I believe she has the potential to become an internationally recognized designer.”
Anna, in turn, describes Esti as a defining force in her professional journey:
“Esti Burton introduced me to the world of New York fashion. When I moved from overseas, I came with experience as a designer, but the rhythm and expectations of the New York fashion scene were entirely new to me. Esti became a mentor in the truest sense – quietly sharing her vision of high-end fashion rooted in craftsmanship, integrity, and meaningful relationships. Her guidance helped shape my brand’s international growth. Today, our designs are carried by high-end boutiques, including Esti’s, with an expanding global clientele. After years of working together, I feel deeply connected to Esti’s legacy – one defined by humility, excellence, and deep respect for the art of fashion.”
Teamwork That Adds the Special Touch
Their relationship goes far beyond a typical professional collaboration. When a client purchasing one of Anna’s designs requires special alterations or wishes to build upon a gown, Anna often comes directly to Esti’s to work with the client in person. As those close to the brand note, Esti’s influence extends far beyond business – it is deeply personal and profoundly lasting.
This year, Esti’s proudly celebrates its 50th anniversary. After five decades, it stands as a true pillar of New York fashion – one that has helped generations of women feel confident, elegant, and unforgettable during life’s most important moments.