If you’re tired of buying the same old shirts off the rack, you need to get some made bespoke at one of Abu Dhabi’s many tailors. You’ll find plenty of skilled craftsmen ready to make striking one-off pieces for you and they’re also very helpful when it comes to adjusting or repairing your clothes. If you have to have a hem taken up or a pair of trousers taken in, it will only set you back about Dhs20-30.
It’s all pretty straightforward. Find a picture of what you want, take it in to the tailor (it’s good to give specific instructions), pick your fabric and the tailor will get to work on your creation. If you need an outfit adjusted, try on your clothes at home and make a mental note of exactly how you want them to look. If you have some dressmaking pins, you can roughly pin them in the spots where you need things altered. The tailor will re-measure everything in store, but it’s helpful for them to be given some direction and you’ll need to decide a few specifics, especially for major adjustments.
Expect small alterations to take a few days, and more complicated work a week or two depending on how busy the tailor is. Allow a day or two more if you’re planning to wear it on a particular occasion so, if it’s not exactly right, you have time to get it re-altered. This is quite common, by the way, so don’t fret – tailors often err on the side of caution and they’re happy to adjust until it’s perfect.
Two to try
Allure Fine tailoring and Fabrics
We’re fans of Allure Fine tailoring and Fabrics and we’ve watched this place go from strength to strength. Once upon a time this was a hole-in-the-wall store cramped with textiles and rulers, but the great quality, fast turnover and friendly service meant people kept coming back. Now it occupies a great location at the Madinat Zayed Shopping Centre.
Madinat Zayed Shopping Centre, first floor (055 377 2050).
Cairo Fabrics
Particular about fabrics? Head to Cairo to choose from their extensive range. It’s a fantastic place for all sorts of great material with everything from pure cotton to linen and wool. The salespeople will help you find whatever you need.
Cairo Fabrics, near The Souk Central Market opposite Mashreq Bank (02 629 9455).
