Skilled Sewers in High Demand as Tailors and Dressmakers Age Out

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Across the United States, the number of tailors, dressmakers, and custom sewing specialists is declining, even as demand for their work is growing. Industry experts say younger shoppers are turning to these professionals to tailor ready-made clothing, refresh thrifted pieces, and get more longevity out of their wardrobes. The rise of weight-loss medications has also led more people to seek alterations as their bodies change, but the pool of skilled workers is shrinking as experienced sewers retire.

Why it matters

The shortage of skilled sewers and tailors highlights a generational shift in the fashion industry, as younger consumers seek more personalized and sustainable clothing options. This trend has implications for the future of the retail and apparel sectors, as well as the preservation of traditional craftsmanship.

The details

Kil Bae, a longtime tailor in New York, notes that the rise of weight-loss medications such as Zepbound and Wegovy has led more people to seek alterations as their bodies change. At the same time, the pool of skilled workers is shrinking as experienced sewers retire. In response, the Fashion Institute of Technology has partnered with Nordstrom to create a training program aimed at addressing the shortage.

• The decline in the number of tailors, dressmakers, and custom sewing specialists has been occurring across the U.S. in recent years.
• The rise in demand for their services has also been a growing trend, as younger shoppers seek more personalized clothing options.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The Fashion Institute of Technology and Nordstrom's training program for aspiring sewers and tailors is expected to continue as the industry seeks to address the shortage of skilled workers.