Womens pinstripe suit get one made or buy made?

Question

I really want a velvet pinstripe power suit made seems like many tailors are more for men. Any recommendations on where to go or whether I could just buy one would want to spend 500 nzd max jacket, vest and trouser is this realistic?

Answer

Hong Kong is well known for its tailoring industry, but most tailors cater primarily to men's suits. Finding a tailor who can make a women's velvet pinstripe power suit is possible, but there are a few things to consider before deciding whether to have one made or buy ready-made.

Custom-made suits:

Women’s tailoring is available in areas like Tsim Sha Tsui, Central, and Causeway Bay, though you may need to search specifically for a tailor who has experience with women's cuts.
Allow at least a few days to a week for measurements, fabric selection, and fittings. Velvet and pinstripe fabrics may not be in-stock at all tailors, so bringing your own fabric can help.
The price point of 500 NZD (roughly 2,400 HKD) for a full three-piece women’s suit is challenging but possible in mid-range tailors; most high-end tailors would charge more, especially for quality velvet fabric.
Recommended tailors for women’s suits include:
- Sam’s Tailor – has women’s options, located in Tsim Sha Tsui.
- Ascot Chang – primarily known for men, but some branches do women’s tailoring.
- Olsen Tailor or independent bespoke tailors in Central or Causeway Bay – check reviews and specify women’s cuts.

Buying ready-made:

Many department stores and fashion brands in Hong Kong carry women’s suits, including Zara, Massimo Dutti, and local boutiques, though finding velvet pinstripe may be hit or miss.
Buying ready-made saves time and ensures proper fit if you find the correct size, but fabric choices may be limited and customization impossible.
For your budget of 500 NZD, ready-made is more realistic than bespoke, unless you compromise slightly on fabric or design for custom tailoring.

Advice:

If you want a perfect fit and unique fabric, a made-to-measure suit is worth pursuing, but be prepared for fittings and potential higher cost if using premium velvet.
If time is short or you want guaranteed pricing within your budget, look for ready-made women’s suits in larger department stores or fashion boutiques. You might then have minor alterations done by a local tailor.
Always communicate clearly that the suit is for a woman’s shape and bring reference photos or sketches to help the tailor understand your vision.

In summary, 500 NZD for a full velvet pinstripe women’s suit is at the lower end for bespoke but feasible for ready-made or mid-range tailored options. A combination of buying ready-made and minor tailoring alterations may be the most practical approach in Hong Kong.