A useful Shanghai suit quote tells you what will be made, in which fabric, for what total, and by when. A starting price alone cannot answer those questions. Compare the same specification before deciding which offer suits your budget.
This guide is published by Kelly’s Tailor Shop. Our current suit starting price is ¥1,500, in CNY; the final quote depends on fabric, design and quantity. That figure is our own starting price, not a Shanghai market average.
1. Count every piece
Write out the order: jacket and trousers, or jacket, trousers and waistcoat. Add an extra pair of trousers, shirt or accessories as separate lines if required. Do not assume that a shirt worn in a suit photograph is included in the quote.
A waistcoat is an extra piece to specify in the quote.
Confirm quantity and design details for each piece: jacket fastening, lapels, pockets, trouser shape and lining preferences. Ask the tailor to identify any choice that changes the total before you approve it.
2. Identify the fabric and construction
Keep the sample-book reference or a photograph of the agreed swatch label with your order. Ask for composition, color and pattern to be written down, together with care guidance. A fabric photograph cannot verify fiber content, origin or current stock.
Record the sample reference you choose; availability still needs confirming.
Ask to inspect a finished sample and have the maker explain the proposed jacket construction, lining and finishing. Words such as “bespoke” and “premium” are not a detailed specification. If a construction method matters to you, ask whether it applies to your order and have it included in the written quote.
3. Compare two example quotes
These two quotes are made-up examples, not real orders or shop offers. Suppose Quote A lists a jacket and trousers in fabric reference A, with a fitting and studio collection. Quote B lists a jacket, trousers and waistcoat in fabric reference B, with shipping charged separately.
Even if A has a lower headline total, the two quotes do not yet cover the same order. To compare them:
- Ask B for a jacket-and-trousers subtotal, or ask A to add the waistcoat you want.
- Ask both to quote an agreed fabric specification; do not treat different swatches as equivalent.
- Align the design, fitting and adjustment scope, then confirm the final total in CNY.
- Add any confirmed delivery charges separately and check whether other destination charges may apply.
Only then decide whether the remaining difference is worth it to you. A missing detail is a question to resolve, not an assumed free extra.
4. Put fittings and timing in the quote
Record consultation, fitting and collection dates, plus your departure date. Ask how many fittings are planned, which adjustments are included, and what happens if another visit is needed. A delivery date should leave room for the agreed fitting process.
At Kelly’s, normal turnaround is less than 7 days including fitting; suits can be ready in as little as 3 days including fitting. Confirm the schedule for your actual order before relying on it. Kelly’s includes free touch-ups; discuss any further adjustments directly. Do not assume another tailor uses the same arrangements.
5. Separate the total from payment and delivery terms
Before paying, request the garment total, deposit, balance, payment timing and accepted payment method. Ask for a receipt and the agreed terms for cancellation or changes. Confirm the actual deposit and cancellation terms directly.
Kelly’s offers shipping within China and internationally, charged separately. Give the destination and required arrival date, then confirm the shipping quote and timing. If customs, import taxes or carrier charges could affect the destination, clarify who handles them before ordering; do not infer that they are included. Keep collection and shipping as distinct options in your comparison.
6. Save a written order summary
After discussing the details, you can send a message like this, replacing each bracket:
Please confirm my order for [pieces and quantities], using [fabric reference and composition], with [design and construction details]. The agreed total is [CNY amount], with [deposit], [balance and due date] and [separate delivery charges if any]. We plan [fitting dates] and [collection or dispatch date]. Please confirm included adjustments, any additional charges and the terms for changes before I pay.
Save the reply, swatch reference and receipt together. If you change the fabric or add a piece later, ask for a revised total and schedule so the old quote does not become the accidental reference.
Check the current details with Kelly
Current prices, hours and contact details are in our services and FAQ. For broader consultation preparation, read the first-visit checklist; for market directions, use the fabric-market guide.
Send Kelly your references, garment quantities, budget and travel dates, and ask for the specification and total together: that is the useful starting point for a suit quote you can compare.