New York — Across the United States, the number of tailors, apparel makers and custom tailoring specialists is declining, even as demand for their work grows. Industry experts say young shoppers are turning to these professionals to design ready-to-wear clothes, refresh existing pieces, and extend the life of their wardrobes.
The emergence of weight-loss drugs like Zepbound and Wegovy has led more people to seek modifications as their bodies change, notes Kel Bay, a longtime New York tailor. At the same time, the number of skilled workers is shrinking as experienced sewer workers retire. In response, the Fashion Institute of Technology partnered with Nordstrom to create a training program aimed at addressing the shortage.
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