Discovering the Shanghai Fabric Market: A Tourist's Guide to Custom Tailoring Heaven
If you're planning a trip to Shanghai and love the idea of getting bespoke clothing made at unbeatable prices, the Shanghai Fabric Market is an absolute must-visit. Also known as the South Bund Fabric Market, this bustling hub is a paradise for fashion enthusiasts, offering everything from custom suits and dresses to traditional Chinese garments. As a tourist, you might have questions like: What's the best way to get there? How much does custom tailoring cost? And where should I go for the best experience? In this guide, we'll answer all that and more, with a special spotlight on one of the market's top vendors, Kelly's Tailor Shop (check them out at tailorshanghai.com). Whether you're after a sharp business suit or an elegant qipao, this market delivers quality craftsmanship without breaking the bank.
What Is the Shanghai Fabric Market?
The Shanghai Fabric Market, officially the South Bund Soft-Spinning Material Market (上海南外滩轻纺面料市场), is a massive indoor marketplace dedicated to fabrics and custom tailoring. Located in the Huangpu District, it's been a go-to spot for locals and tourists since the early 2000s. Spread across multiple floors, the market houses hundreds of stalls where skilled tailors create made-to-measure clothing on-site. It's not just about buying off-the-rack—here, you can pick your fabric, design, and style, and have it tailored to your exact measurements.
Why is it so popular among tourists? Shanghai's tailors blend traditional techniques with modern efficiency, offering fast turnarounds (often in days) and prices that are a fraction of what you'd pay in Europe or the US. Plus, with Shanghai's vibrant fabric selection—from luxurious silks to premium wools—it's easy to create unique pieces. If you're searching for "best tailors in Shanghai" or "custom suits Shanghai," this market tops the list every time.
How to Get to the Shanghai Fabric Market
Getting to the market is straightforward, even if you're new to Shanghai's public transport. The address is 399 Lujiabang Lu, Huangpu District (in Chinese: 陆家浜路399号, 近南仓街). Here's how to arrive hassle-free:
By Subway: Take Metro Line 4 to Nanpu Bridge Station (南浦大桥站). Exit via Exit 3, then walk northeast for about four minutes. You'll spot the market across the road—it's hard to miss with its large signage.
By DiDi (Ride-Hailing App): Simply input "上海南外滩轻纺面料市场" as your destination. It's affordable and convenient, especially if you're carrying luggage.
By Taxi: Show the driver the Chinese address or mention "South Bund Fabric Market." Taxis are plentiful in Shanghai, but download the DiDi app for English support.
The market operates daily from 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM, so plan your visit during these hours. Pro tip for tourists: Go early to avoid crowds, and wear comfortable clothes you can try on samples in.
What Can You Buy at the Shanghai Fabric Market?
The market specializes in custom tailoring, making it ideal for personalized wardrobe upgrades. Here's a breakdown of popular items:
Custom Suits and Blazers
Shanghai suit tailors are renowned for their precision. You can get business suits, wedding tuxedos, or casual blazers starting from around ¥750 (about $100 USD). Fabrics range from wool blends to linen, sourced from the market's vast selection.
Shirts and Tops
Custom shirts are a steal, starting at ¥120. Options include dress shirts, French cuff styles, and casual polos—perfect for refreshing your everyday look.
Dresses and Traditional Chinese Garments
For something uniquely Chinese, try a qipao (cheongsam) or modern festival dress, starting from ¥600. The market's tailors excel in silk fabrics, creating elegant evening or cocktail dresses tailored just for you.
Pants, Shorts, and Coats
Custom pants start at ¥300, while coats and jackets begin at ¥700. Whether you need chinos for travel or a trench coat for cooler weather, the variety is endless.
Most stalls offer fittings and adjustments, with delivery in 1-4 weeks (or faster for rush orders). If you're wondering "how much for a tailored suit in Shanghai," expect great value—premium fabrics and hand-finished details without the luxury markup.
Pricing and Bargaining Tips for Tourists
One of the biggest draws for tourists is the affordability. Custom suits in Shanghai cost far less than in Western countries, with transparent pricing at reputable shops (no hidden fees). However, prices can vary by stall, so shop around.
Bargaining: Yes, it's expected! Start by asking for a discount—aim for 10-20% off the quoted price. Be polite, and if you're buying multiple items, leverage that for better deals.
Payment: Cash is king, but many accept WeChat Pay or Alipay. Credit cards? Not always, so bring yuan.
Quality Check: Inspect fabrics and stitching. Ask about guarantees—top tailors offer free touch-ups.
Tourists often ask: "Is it worth it?" Absolutely, especially if you value fit and customization over fast fashion.
Essential Tips for Tourists Visiting Shanghai Tailors
Navigating the market as a first-timer? Here are answers to common questions:
Language Barriers: Not all tailors speak English, but many do—especially in tourist-friendly stalls. If communication is key, head to shops like Kelly's, where fluent English makes designing your piece a breeze.
Turnaround Time: Need it quick? Some offer same-day or 1-week service. Plan ahead if your trip is short.
Fabric Sourcing: Bring photos or ideas—good tailors can track down any pattern online, not just from sample books.
Scams to Avoid: Stick to established stalls. Read reviews on TripAdvisor or Google before committing.
Shipping: If you're flying out soon, many shops arrange international shipping.
For the smoothest experience, focus on vendors with strong reputations for quality and service.
Spotlight: Why Kelly's Tailor Shop Stands Out Among Shanghai Custom Tailors
Amid the market's 300+ stalls, Kelly's Tailor Shop (Store 167, 1st Floor) has earned a stellar reputation since 2017. As one of the best tailors in Shanghai, they specialize in bespoke suits, shirts, dresses, and traditional Chinese pieces, all with a "perfect fit guarantee." What sets them apart?
Any Design, Any Fabric: Unlike others limited to stock samples, Kelly's team sources exactly what you want—even rare patterns.
Fast and Flexible: Rush orders in 1 day? No problem. They cater to tourists with tight schedules.
English-Friendly: Fluent communication ensures your vision comes to life without misunderstandings.
Customer Love: With over 5,000 satisfied clients, testimonials rave about their service. Emily from the US said: "Excellent service... I will 100% need to come back." Phil praised their linen sourcing, and Joey called it an "amazing experience."
Visit tailorshanghai.com for more details, pricing, and to contact Kelly via email (kelly@tailorshanghai.com) or WeChat (kellyzhao18726481208). Located just outside the east gate, it's easy to find—turn right from the side entrance and look for store 167.
Final Thoughts: Make Your Shanghai Trip Unforgettable with Custom Tailoring
The Shanghai Fabric Market isn't just a shopping spot—it's an experience that lets you take home one-of-a-kind souvenirs. Whether you're after affordable custom suits in Shanghai or a stunning traditional dress, this market delivers. For tourists seeking reliability and excellence, Kelly's Tailor Shop is your best bet. Head over to tailorshanghai.com to plan your visit, and get ready to elevate your wardrobe. Safe travels, and happy tailoring!
Last updated: July 2025. Prices may vary; confirm on-site.