The article discusses the shift in consumer preferences from custom-made clothing to ready-to-wear fashion during Eid celebrations in Pakistan. While many opt for convenience, tailoring businesses continue to thrive among those exclusive for personalized fittings. Key contributors include Muhammad Shafiq, a local tailor, and designer Arslan Haider, noting ongoing demand for bespoke clothing despite the rising ready-made options.
The demand for custom-made clothing surges during the Muslim festivals of Eid Al-Fitr and Eid Al-Adha, particularly in cities like Islamabad, Pakistan. Tailoring shops experience an influx of women eager to acquire bespoke outfits, requiring careful selection of fabrics and styles. However, recent years have seen a rise in the popularity of ready-to-wear fashion, favored for its convenience and accessibility over traditional custom tailoring.
Muhammad Shafiq, a seasoned tailor with four decades of experience, reports a decrease in advance bookings for custom garments, dropping from a month before Eid to just ten days. This shift indicates that busy consumers are opting for ready-to-wear clothing due to time constraints and the availability of fashionable alternatives.
Ready-to-wear garments can be found in both stores and online platforms, enabling consumers to purchase trendy attire without the need for fitting appointments. Designer Arslan Haider notes that although ready-to-wear options are becoming increasingly popular, bespoke clothing remains attractive, especially to those from the older demographic who value perfect fittings.
Despite the appeal of pre-made garments, some still prefer the personalized experience of custom tailoring. Farida Qureshi, a UK-based customer, highlights the convenience of ready-to-wear fashion, which minimizes the time spent searching for materials and avoiding multiple visits to tailors. Nonetheless, she maintains a custom option for tailored clothing to ensure a perfect fit. Shafiq emphasizes that despite changing preferences, many customers continue to rely on him for customized outfits, as he has their measurements on file and can provide ideal fitting.
Overall, while the fashion landscape evolves with a growing inclination toward faster and more accessible clothing options, the enduring tradition of tailoring persists, catering to those seeking personalized and perfectly fitted attire during festive occasions.
In summary, the tailoring industry in Pakistan faces significant challenges from the rising popularity of ready-to-wear fashion, driven by consumer demand for convenience and accessibility. Despite this trend, bespoke tailoring continues to thrive among individuals who prioritize perfect fits and personalized service. Tailors like Muhammad Shafiq maintain a loyal clientele due to their commitment to customized designs for significant occasions such as Eid.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
