For international visitors seeking custom-made clothing in Shanghai, the South Bund Soft-Spinning Material Market, commonly known as the South Bund Fabric Market, has become a default recommendation.

The market ranks second on Tripadvisor's "1,412 things to do in Shanghai", trailing only the Bund, and holds a 4.8-star rating on Google Maps, based on more than 500 reviews from visitors worldwide.

​[Photo/Tripadvisor]

Unlike conventional tourist attractions, its appeal lies in practicality. It is one of the few places in the city where visitors can arrive with an idea and leave days later with a finished, made-to-measure garment.

The market combines fabric retail with on-site tailoring services. Visitors can commission suits, shirts, overcoats, qipaos, Tang-style jackets, evening gowns, and wedding attire, all made to order. Most shops accept reference photos, sample garments, or simple verbal descriptions, making the process accessible even for first-time customers unfamiliar with tailoring terminology.

​Tourists browse fabrics at the market. [Photo/VCG]

For visitors, the procedure is relatively straightforward. After selecting a shop, customers choose fabrics and discuss styles, followed by on-site measurements. Production typically takes about six to seven days, although many shops offer express services, completing garments within two days for those on a tight schedule.

Pricing is another reason the market appeals to international customers. A tailored suit typically costs between 2,000 and 4,000 yuan (about $286 to $572), depending on fabric and tailoring, roughly one-third of the price of comparable bespoke services in Europe or North America.

Sample suits are on display. [Photo/South Bund Soft Spinning Material Market]

Language is rarely a barrier. Many shop owners and staff members are accustomed to serving overseas customers and can communicate in basic English. Some shops also display international social media platforms on their storefronts, signaling experience with global clientele and online communication.

In recent years, international customers have come to represent a significant share of overall business. Shop owners say more than half of their clients are from overseas, discovering the market through Google Maps, Tripadvisor, or AI-based travel recommendations.

China's 240-hour visa-free transit policy has further boosted short-term visits, leading to an increase in rush orders and international deliveries. For visitors continuing to other destinations or returning home before their garments are ready, many shops offer overseas shipping, delivering finished items directly to international addresses.

Repeat customers say flexibility and follow-up adjustments are among the main reasons they return. A customer from the United States described the experience as "addictive", saying he ordered six or seven garments last year alone. In some cases, he even brought in ready-to-wear pieces purchased elsewhere and asked tailors to refine the cut or add lining. "They can turn what you have in mind into an actual piece of clothing," he said.

Word of mouth within expatriate and traveler communities continues to play a role. One French visitor said that international customers often rely on informal recommendation networks. "This is one of those places people share quietly among themselves," he added.

If you go

Address: No 399 Lujiabang Road, Huangpu district

Hours: Daily from 9 am to 6 pm

Transport: About a five-minute walk from Exit 3 of Nanpu Bridge Station, Metro Line 4

Source: International Services Shanghai (https://english.shanghai.gov.cn/)

International Services Shanghai is an upgraded, multilingual portal for the Shanghai municipal government. It offers detailed policies, news updates, and useful tips for expats in Shanghai who are seeking information on business, employment, travel, education, or shopping.

You can go to South Bund Fabric Market (Nanshi Fucheng Lu):

   This is the most famous and tourist-friendly spot. It's a multi-story market with dozens of stalls. Prices are very reasonable, and the quality ranges from decent to excellent depending on the fabric and tailor you choose.           

How it works: You browse fabrics (wool, cotton, linen, silk, etc.), negotiate a price for the material, then the stall will have an in-house tailor or partner workshop to take your measurements. You'll come back for 1-2 fittings.

Budget: A custom men's suit can start from ¥1,500 - ¥3,000+, shirts from ¥300 - ¥600. Haggling is expected.

   Tip: Go to the upper floors for potentially better service and slightly lower pressure

For custom clothing in Shanghai, the EWAINAN Light Textile & Fabric Market is the most renowned spot. It's famous for high-value suits, dresses, and Chinese-style clothing, with many tailors speaking excellent English. For modern brands, consider ASHWELL for tech-driven custom suits or azabu tailor for Japanese craftsmanship.

EWAINAN Light Textile & Fabric Market

· What to Expect: A bustling market with many small stalls specializing in suits, shirts,旗袍 (qípáo, cheongsam), and more. Known for "Shanghai tailoring" quality at good value.

· Key Info: Tailors are used to international clients; you can often get measured and have a first fitting in 24 hours. Bring inspiration pictures for easier communication.

· Location: Near the South Bund.

Alternative Modern Brands

· ASHWELL: An Italian brand offering high-tech AI body scanning and faster turnaround for suits and shirts.

· azabu tailor: A Japanese bespoke suit brand focusing on meticulous craftsmanship, with prices starting around ¥4,000.

If you know what specific type of garment you're looking for, I can offer more tailored advice.

Before you go, research specific shops online (through expat forums or travel sites) for the most current reviews. Enjoy the process – having clothes made in Shanghai is a memorable experience.