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Editor’s Note: This article is based on personal experience, independent research, and firsthand observations. Some experiences or products featured may be gifted or discounted for the purpose of review, but we select providers and experiences independently. We are not medical professionals, and nothing shared here should be taken as medical advice. Some links in this article may be affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission if you choose to book or purchase through them. This comes at no extra cost to you and helps support our independent reporting.
For years, I walked around with clothes I liked but never fully loved. Skirts I was constantly pulling up. Jeans that dragged on the ground. Dresses that technically fit but somehow still felt off. It took me way too long to realize that I could get those pieces tailored while traveling. Now that I’ve done it a few times and seen how consistently well things turn out, it’s completely changed the way I travel and the way I shop for clothes.
On a recent trip to Istanbul, I had a skirt taken in for $7 and a pair of jeans hemmed for $4.66.
Here’s the tailor I visited.
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It was quick, straightforward, and the results were exactly what I wanted. So if you’ve ever liked something but skipped wearing it because the fit was just slightly off, or assumed that tailoring an entire wardrobe was unrealistic or reserved for the ultra-wealthy, this travel hack is for you.
It’s much easier than most people expect. When I travel now, I either pack a few pieces that fit poorly or end up buying things I love while I’m there and know they could be better with a few small adjustments. At some point during the trip, I’ll bring everything to a local tailor. In my experience, items are usually ready in just a few days, for 1/4th of the cost it would’ve been in the United States, and I get to come home with a custom wardrobe for a very reasonable price.
Here’s exactly what I do to select a tailor and get the best price:
1. Start with Google Maps.
As you’re planning your trip, pull up Google Maps and search for the word “tailor” in English, then try the same search in the local language. This usually pulls up several options near your hotel, and in my experience, there’s almost always a handful to choose from.
Of course, if you’re planning to have something custom made from scratch or are getting something especially important altered, like a wedding dress, you’ll want someone who specializes in that. For everyday tailoring, I’ve found that choosing the tailor with the strongest reviews in my area is a pretty safe bet.
2. Read reviews the right way.
Like anything else on Google Maps, I start with the worst reviews and then read the most recent ones. I also look at photos if there are any. Don’t be scared off if the shop looks a little disheveled, that’s pretty normal for your standard local tailor. If the reviews are strong, that’s what matters most.
3. Expect small, local operations.
Once you have a few tailors in mind, there’s a good chance they won’t have a website or prices posted. I usually look for a phone number or social media account instead. A lot of the time, their WhatsApp number is listed directly on their Google Maps profile.
4. Reach out before you go.
Send them a message in their native language and let them know what you’re looking to get tailored, then ask what it costs. Something as simple as, I need a pair of jeans hemmed, what is the price for that? From there, ask if they have availability for you to bring items in and when they think they’d be ready. Sometimes they’ll ask you to send a photo of the items.
5. Drop things off early in your trip.
I recommend dropping off your clothes as soon as possible, just in case they’re very busy and need more than a few days. They might give you a specific time to come in, but more often than not they’ll just tell you to stop by whenever.
When you get to the shop, have Google Translate ready and remind them that you messaged them on WhatsApp. Most places have a small makeshift changing area. You’ll try on one item at a time, explain what you don’t like about it, and they’ll pin it until you’re happy with the fit.
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6. Confirm everything before you leave.
Before heading out, confirm the price one last time. Sometimes they’ll ask for around 50% upfront. Double-check when your items will be ready, then head off and enjoy your vacation.
7. Do a final try-on at pickup.
When pickup time comes around, send a quick WhatsApp message to check that your items are ready, then swing by to try them on. I’ve been lucky and haven’t had anything turn out poorly, but this final try-on is your chance to make small adjustments if needed.
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If you’re having a lot of expensive pieces tailored, I’d recommend starting with just one item first. It’s usually a quick turnaround and lets you make sure you’re happy with their work before dropping off everything else.
This has completely changed how I think about shopping. Finding something I love in the wrong size doesn’t feel like a problem anymore, because I know it can be adjusted later. Clothes that sat untouched in my closet for years have found a second life by coming with me on trips and getting turned into pieces I’ll actually wear.
This is one of my favorite travel "souvenirs" now. It’s been a really fun way to get to know the locals, while bringing back something I’ll actually use.
Next on my list is having custom pieces made from scratch while I travel. Wedding dresses, costumes, you name it. I also have a favorite shirt I’d love to replicate and have made in multiple patterns. I’ll share more once I find the right place!
Disclosure: This article is based on personal experience, independent research, and firsthand observations. All information shared here is intended for general informational purposes only.
