Hoi An has the worlds highest number of tailors per capita so it’s no wonder people flock from all over to get some threads made.
The hubby and I got some threads but it can be a bit overwhelming so if you are heading that way, these tips might help:
- Shop around, don’t be pressured into the first tailors you see. Also beware of hotels and taxis that will drop you off at shops where they get commission.
- Don’t worry if you only have a day. I could not believe how quickly our clothes were made. You will need to make time to go back for fittings and any alterations.
- I had a good idea of what I wanted, but there is lots of inspiration in each shop. They also all have ipads/comps where you can get inspo and they will do a copy.
- Get all your items made in one place, it’s cost and time effective. We had an off the shoulder maxi, jumpsuit and men’s jacket made for $165 – bargain!
- It is really hard to choose between tailors, as there are so many, but we chose ours because of the materials, they were really friendly (and not pushy) and entertained Kitale.
- Some tailors will tell you anything to seal the deal eg “its pure cashmere” 🤔so make sure you are getting what you want.
- We also got to meet the tailors who were part of the family run shop. Now I’m sure they weren’t paid very much but it felt much better than imagining a sweatshop.
- A good shop will ask you lots of questions about your clothes eg. do you want the zip exposed, what type of lining, thread colour etc.
- #barterbarterbarter If we had gone with the first tailors we would have paid more than double, so definitely look around.
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