Summary
Home to Hundreds of Tailors
The Shanghai Fabric Market, also known as the Shanghai South Bund Fabric Market, located in the Huangpu district, serves as the ultimate destination for custom-made clothing. Whether you seek tailored shirts, suits, dresses, or accessories like gloves and scarves, this market has you covered. Since 2005, it has attracted a predominantly foreign clientele. Therefore, it’s advisable to bring cash, as credit cards are not accepted. The market is conveniently situated at 399 Lujiabang Lu, near Zhongshan Nan Lu, and is open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Linens, Silks, and Cottons, Oh My!
The expansive three-floor Shanghai South Bund Market boasts thousands of fabric choices, with more than 300 custom tailors ready to deliver made-to-measure clothing for men and women within 48 hours. Here, you can find a comprehensive variety of fabrics, including linen, chiffon, silk, cotton, denim, cashmere for coats, and men’s suiting materials, all available in different shades, textures, and blends.
Vendors and Their Specialties
Within the Shanghai South Bund Market, the majority of the 300+ vendors offer specialized services. Some craftsmen focus exclusively on shirts, while others may create only dresses or gowns. Some vendors dedicate themselves to buttons, and some merely sell fabrics. Each vendor operates out of their own showroom, and many communicate in basic English, facilitating the process of custom clothing creation. When ordering, it is best to either choose an existing item or bring an example that you’d like replicated. After selecting your fabric and being properly measured, you’ll typically leave a 50% deposit. You can then return in a few days for a fitting, paying the final balance if you are satisfied. It’s important to note that the clothing is made elsewhere; the market primarily serves as a showroom. If you’re pressed for time, account for an additional day or two for necessary alterations, as tailor precision can vary initially. If the wait proves inconvenient, many vendors can also arrange for shipping your order.
Favorites
Among the many clothing options available, some items stand out for their quality and design. Notable mentions include bomber jackets with fleece lining, sleek suede jackets, and striking motorcycle jackets made from top-grain leather, lambskin, suede, and patent leather. Additionally, lightweight cotton shirts in a multitude of colors and classy camel coats are popular choices, as well as blouses crafted from luxurious silk.
Bargains
It’s wise not to settle for the first vendor you encounter; exploring deeper into the market often reveals better selections and prices. Be prepared to negotiate your way towards a fair deal. In some cases, prices can drop to as much as five times lower than European rates for comparably well-made garments, although the quality might not meet European standards. While the market may not offer the same rock-bottom prices as in previous years, savvy shoppers can still achieve good bargains with a little effort.
