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Tailors create custom made suits, jackets and coats for individual customers. They also alter and repair clothes.
You could work: evenings / weekends;
You could:
You could work in a workshop or in a factory.
You can get into this job through:
You could start by doing a degree in fashion or fashion and textiles, and specialise in tailoring.
You could also do a degree in bespoke tailoring.
You'll usually need:
You could take a college course to develop your sewing, pattern cutting and design skills. Courses include:
You may need:
You could complete an advanced apprenticeship in garment making. You could also move on to a bespoke tailor and cutter higher apprenticeship, as your experience grows.
You may be able to get into the industry through the Savile Row Bespoke Association (SRBA) apprenticeship programme. This can take between 2 and 6 years to complete. You would apply directly to SRBA member tailoring companies. Competition for places is strong.
You could start by working as an assistant to a master tailor. You may be able to arrange this yourself, if you can show you have a keen interest in making clothes and have sewing skills.
You can find information on tailoring houses from The Bespoke Tailor.
If you are aged between 13 and 16 you may be able to find out more about careers in the fashion and textiles industry through the British Fashion Council supported National Saturday Club.
You can get more information on a career in tailoring from The Bespoke Apprentice and UKFT.
You can find out more about creative careers from Discover Creative Careers.
With experience, you could go from bespoke tailor to master tailor. You could supervise a team or train new recruits, or you could set up your own business.
You can get more on a career in tailoring from The Bespoke Apprentice.