Oakridge Tailors is building a reputation on how to transform off-the-rack clothing into ultra-stylish fashions that look made to measure.
People might drive to Seattle, or go to a Holt Renfrew sale, to shop for clothes and then we restyle them for a current look, says William Winnyunt, who owns the shop with his partner in life, and business, Joy Chao. When customers try on the clothes after Oakridge Tailors has nipped and tucked, they feel confident and good about what they wear.
One fashionista put before-and-after photos on her blog, raving about the transformation. Word of mouth has also helped to ensure that Oakridge Tailors was chosen as the Best Tailor in WE Vancouvers Best of the City readers survey.
Winnyunt learned how to sew from his uncle in Malaysia; Chao studied fashion in Paris for six years. They both know the rules and proper techniques for making clothes fit just so, but also enjoy working with clients on implementing their design ideas.
Such work can take time, however. The duo likes to meet with the client to talk about what the client wants. They will also make sure they give the job the care and attention it deserves so that when the client tries on the altered clothes, they will all be thrilled with the results. That means an alteration can take a couple of weeks.
Were trying to do the best job and we want to maintain good quality, Winnyunt says.
WE Vancouvers readers think theyre fulfilling both goals.
