In the 1980s and 1990s, people used to bring fabrics to tailors to have custom-made clothes. However, with the rise of the term “fashion,†many tailor shops either closed down or transformed into clothing stores. Over time, only a few managed to survive by adapting and innovating. As the Spring Festival approached, people started shopping for new outfits, but now, instead of going to malls, some are turning back to tailor shops—once seen as outdated by younger generations. These shops are quietly making a comeback, especially among those who value personal style and uniqueness.
During this year’s Spring Festival rush, Ms. Jiang decided not to buy from a mall. Instead, she searched online for a stylish wool coat design, printed it out, and took it to a tailor on Henan Road. The shop owner customized the garment according to her preferences, and when she picked it up, she found that the shop was already busy with other customers. Among them were middle-aged individuals and young professionals in their 20s, all looking for tailored pieces to wear during the holiday season.
The trend of custom clothing is growing, especially among young people who are drawn to the idea of wearing unique, personalized outfits. At Qianchuan Department Store, a seasoned tailor named Cheng Congbao noticed more young customers coming in, often carrying fashion magazines or images downloaded from the internet. She can easily replicate the designs using high-quality fabrics available at reasonable prices. “The same fabric you see in branded stores can be made here at a lower cost,†she said. Many customers are looking for “imitation brands†that match their style without the premium price tag.
At Chantilly Fashion Design Studio, a small shop that has evolved from a traditional tailor shop into a trendy design studio, the atmosphere is lively. Customers browse through dozens of sample winter styles, and the staff helps them choose fabrics and designs. A 20-year-old woman explained that mass-produced clothing in malls often looks the same, and she prefers custom-made pieces that reflect her personality. “It’s rare to see someone wearing the same outfit as me,†she said.
Zhang Yan, the owner of the studio, noted that while the original customer base was older, they’ve gradually attracted younger clients. “Now, two-thirds of our customers are under 30,†she said. Many of them come from nearby cities like Jinan, seeking out custom clothing stores that offer unique options. The shop also stocks fashion magazines like *ELLE* and *Shanghai Fashion*, helping customers find inspiration.
For younger customers, the appeal of custom clothing lies in individuality, fit, and affordability. Zhang Yan pointed out that while the price of a custom coat may seem high, it’s still much cheaper than designer brands. “A brand-name coat might cost 5,000–6,000 yuan, but we can make one for around 600 yuan with the same quality,†she said.
At another shop on Feixian Road, the tailor emphasized that the business model has changed. “We don’t just do simple repairs anymore,†she said. “We focus on creating custom pieces, and the manual labor is becoming more valuable.†The cost of fabrics varies, with some imported materials costing up to 800 yuan per meter. But the real expense comes from the craftsmanship, which can add 180–280 yuan to the total price.
Meanwhile, at Taitung Pedestrian Street, the demand for custom clothing remains strong. Many elderly customers prefer tailored garments due to their specific body sizes, while younger people are drawn to the unique designs and personalization. “Custom clothing isn’t just for older people anymore,†said a local tailor. “Younger generations are starting to appreciate the value of something made just for them.â€
As the fashion industry evolves, tailor shops are finding new ways to stay relevant. Some have transitioned into high-end design studios, while others remain focused on practical, affordable customization. With rising fabric costs and increasing demand for personal style, the future of tailoring looks promising. Whether through traditional methods or modern design, these shops continue to serve a niche market that values quality, uniqueness, and individual expression.
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