How to Get to the Memphis Tailor Shops

Memphis, Tennessee, is a city steeped in musical heritage, culinary excellence, and a deep-rooted tradition of craftsmanship—especially in the art of tailoring. For decades, Memphis has been home to some of the most respected bespoke tailors in the American South, known for their precision, attention to detail, and commitment to timeless style. Whether you're a local seeking a perfectly fitted suit for a special occasion, a visitor exploring Southern craftsmanship, or a professional in need of custom attire, knowing how to get to the Memphis tailor shops is more than a logistical question—it’s the first step toward owning a garment that reflects your individuality and elevates your presence.

Unlike mass-produced clothing, bespoke tailoring is a deeply personal experience. Each measurement, fabric choice, and stitch is tailored to you. But to access this level of artistry, you must first navigate to the right location. Many of Memphis’s finest tailors operate in historic districts, tucked away in unassuming storefronts or repurposed warehouses, making them easy to miss without proper guidance. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap to locating, accessing, and maximizing your visit to Memphis’s most acclaimed tailor shops—ensuring your journey is as seamless and rewarding as the final product.

Step-by-Step Guide

Getting to the Memphis tailor shops requires more than just typing an address into a navigation app. It demands awareness of neighborhood dynamics, parking logistics, appointment protocols, and local etiquette. Follow these detailed steps to ensure a smooth and productive visit.

Step 1: Identify Your Target Tailor

Memphis is home to a diverse range of tailoring services—from century-old family-run ateliers to modern boutique studios. Begin by researching which shop aligns with your needs. Are you seeking a classic three-piece suit? A custom shirt for business meetings? A formal tuxedo for a wedding? Different tailors specialize in different areas.

Some of the most renowned include:

• Beale Street Bespoke – Located in the heart of the historic Beale Street Entertainment District, known for vintage-inspired menswear and hand-stitched lapels.
• The Memphis Atelier – A high-end studio in Midtown offering Italian fabrics and 12+ hour fittings.
• South Main Tailors – A neighborhood favorite in the South Main Arts District, popular with artists and creatives for relaxed, modern fits.
• King’s Cloth & Co. – A family operation since 1947, specializing in Southern gentlemen’s wear with a focus on durability and heritage cuts.

Visit each tailor’s official website to review their portfolio, services, and client testimonials. Note their specialties, price ranges, and turnaround times. This will help you prioritize which shop to visit first.

Step 2: Confirm Appointment Availability

Most of Memphis’s top tailors operate by appointment only. Walk-ins are rarely accommodated, especially during peak seasons like wedding season (April–October) or holiday gifting periods (November–December).

To schedule:

• Go to the tailor’s website and locate their online booking portal.
• If no portal exists, call during business hours (typically 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Tuesday–Saturday) and request a consultation.
• Be prepared to provide your name, contact information, preferred date/time, and a brief description of what you’re seeking (e.g., “custom dress shirt with spread collar” or “three-piece wool suit for a funeral”).

Many tailors require a deposit to secure your appointment—this is normal and ensures commitment from both parties. Always confirm your appointment via email or text, and save the confirmation for your records.

Step 3: Plan Your Route Based on Location

Memphis tailor shops are spread across distinct neighborhoods, each with its own traffic patterns and parking challenges. Use the table below to map your route efficiently:

Always use a real-time navigation app like Google Maps or Waze to check for traffic delays, road closures, or construction. Memphis experiences heavy congestion during rush hour (7–9 a.m. and 4–6 p.m.), so plan your visit mid-morning or early afternoon for the smoothest experience.

Step 4: Prepare for Your Visit

Arriving prepared significantly improves the outcome of your tailoring session. Bring the following:

• Reference images – Photos of styles you like (from magazines, online, or previous garments).
• Wear the shoes you plan to pair with the garment – This affects the length of trousers and overall drape.
• Any existing garment for reference – If you have a suit or shirt that fits well, bring it along. Tailors use it as a template for your new piece.
• A notebook and pen – You’ll receive measurements and fabric options; writing them down helps avoid confusion later.
• Payment method – Most tailors accept credit cards, but some prefer cash for deposits or final payments. Confirm in advance.

Also, wear clothing that allows for easy movement. Avoid bulky sweaters or tight shirts, as tailors need to take precise body measurements.

Step 5: Navigate the Consultation

Your first visit is typically a consultation, not a fitting. The tailor will:

• Discuss your needs, lifestyle, and occasions for the garment.
• Present fabric swatches—often over 100 options, ranging from lightweight linen to heavy wool flannel.
• Explain construction techniques (e.g., canvassed vs. fused lining, hand-stitched vs. machine-sewn buttons).
• Take detailed measurements using a tape measure, noting posture, shoulder slope, and torso length.

Ask questions. Don’t be afraid to say, “I don’t understand what ‘full canvas’ means.” A good tailor will explain in plain terms. This is your opportunity to build trust and ensure your vision is understood.

At the end of the consultation, you’ll receive a timeline. Most custom garments take 3–6 weeks to complete. Confirm when you can expect your first fitting.

Step 6: Return for Fittings

Most custom garments require at least two fittings:

• First fitting (baste fitting) – Done with a rough version of the garment, stitched with temporary thread. This is where major adjustments are made—shoulder width, sleeve length, waist suppression.
• Final fitting – The garment is nearly complete. Minor tweaks are made, and you’ll inspect details like button placement, pocket alignment, and hem length.

Arrive on time. If you’ve gained or lost weight since your initial consultation, inform your tailor immediately. They can adjust accordingly, but only if they know.

Step 7: Pick Up and Care Instructions

When your garment is ready, return to the shop to collect it. The tailor will:

• Present the finished piece with pride.
• Explain how to care for the fabric (e.g., dry clean only, steam instead of iron, proper hangers).
• Provide a garment bag and care card.
• Invite you to return for future orders—many offer loyalty discounts for repeat clients.

Take a moment to appreciate the craftsmanship. A well-made garment is an heirloom. Store it properly, and it will last decades.

Best Practices

Maximizing your experience with Memphis tailor shops goes beyond logistics—it’s about cultivating a relationship with craftsmanship. Here are best practices to ensure you get the most value and longevity from your custom garments.

1. Prioritize Quality Over Speed

While some tailors offer rush services for an additional fee, avoid them unless absolutely necessary. Rushed garments often sacrifice precision. A suit made in 7 days will never match the fit of one crafted over 4 weeks. Patience is part of the art.

2. Build a Relationship

Don’t treat your tailor as a transactional service provider. Over time, they learn your body, preferences, and style evolution. A tailor who knows you can anticipate your needs—whether it’s a slightly narrower lapel for a job interview or a lighter fabric for summer weddings.

Consider returning for multiple garments. A well-fitted shirt, a pair of trousers, and a suit made by the same tailor will create a cohesive wardrobe with consistent tailoring DNA.

3. Understand Fabric Choices

Not all wool is the same. Memphis tailors often source from mills in Italy, England, and Japan. Learn the basics:

• Super 100s–130s wool – Ideal for business wear; durable and breathable.
• Super 150s–180s wool – Luxurious, lightweight, but more delicate. Best for special occasions.
• Linen – Perfect for warm weather but wrinkles easily.
• Cotton twill – Great for casual jackets and trousers.

Ask your tailor which fabric suits your climate and lifestyle. Memphis summers are humid and hot—opt for lighter weaves and natural fibers.

4. Avoid Common Mistakes

Many clients unknowingly sabotage their fit with these errors:

• Wearing a bulky jacket during measurements—this distorts shoulder and chest readings.
• Choosing a style based solely on celebrity photos without considering body type.
• Ignoring sleeve length—your shirt cuff should extend ¼ inch beyond the jacket sleeve.
• Not bringing shoes to fittings—this affects trouser break (how the pant leg rests on the shoe).

Listen to your tailor’s advice. They’ve seen thousands of bodies and understand what flatters what.

5. Document Your Measurements

Request a copy of your measurements after your first visit. Keep them in a digital folder or printed card. This allows you to order future garments without returning for a full consultation—especially useful if you travel frequently.

Include notes like: “Prefer 1” longer sleeve,” or “Slight taper at ankle.” These small details make future orders faster and more accurate.

6. Respect the Craft

Tailoring is a dying art. Many of Memphis’s master tailors are in their 60s and 70s, having learned from their fathers or grandfathers. Treat them with respect. Arrive on time. Be polite. Thank them. A warm, appreciative attitude fosters loyalty—and often leads to perks like complimentary alterations or priority scheduling.

Tools and Resources

Success in navigating Memphis tailor shops relies on the right tools and resources. Below is a curated list of digital and physical aids to streamline your journey.

1. Digital Tools

• Google Maps – Use the “Saved Places” feature to bookmark each tailor’s address. Enable offline maps for areas with spotty cellular service.
• Waze – Best for real-time traffic updates and alternate route suggestions during peak hours.
• Yelp or Google Reviews – Read recent reviews (within the last 6 months) to gauge current service quality, wait times, and staff responsiveness.
• Instagram – Many Memphis tailors showcase their work on Instagram. Search hashtags like

  MemphisTailor, #BealeStreetBespoke, or #CustomSuitMemphis to see fabric options and finished garments.

• Calendar Apps – Sync your appointment dates with reminders. Set alerts 24 hours and 1 hour before your visit.

2. Physical Resources

• Memphis Visitor Guide – Available at the Memphis Tourism Center (222 S. Main Street) or online at visitmemphis.com. Includes maps of historic districts and local business directories.
• Fabric Swatch Books – Some tailors provide printed swatch books. Keep one as a reference for future orders.
• Garment Care Cards – Always ask for these. They include washing instructions, recommended cleaners, and storage tips.
• Measuring Tape – Keep a cloth measuring tape in your travel bag. Useful for checking fit on trips or when ordering online later.

3. Educational Resources

Deepen your understanding of tailoring with these trusted sources:

• “The Art of Tailoring” by John T. Molloy – A classic guide to understanding garment construction.
• “The Suit: A Machiavellian Guide to Men’s Style” by Alan Flusser – Explores the philosophy behind bespoke clothing.
• YouTube Channels – Search for “bespoke tailoring process” or “how suits are made” for visual tutorials from Savile Row and Memphis artisans alike.

4. Local Associations

Connect with Memphis’s artisan community:

• Memphis Craft Guild – Hosts annual exhibitions featuring local tailors, shoemakers, and leatherworkers.
• South Main Arts District Events – Monthly gallery crawls often include tailor pop-ups and fabric showcases.
• Memphis Fashion Week – Held each spring; features local designers and tailors presenting custom collections.

Attending these events gives you direct access to tailors, the chance to see garments in person, and opportunities to network with other style-conscious locals.

Real Examples

Real-world stories illustrate the value of knowing how to get to the Memphis tailor shops—not just physically, but culturally and emotionally.

Example 1: The Business Executive

James, a corporate attorney from Chicago, relocated to Memphis for a new job. He needed a wardrobe that projected authority but felt authentic to Southern style. He visited King’s Cloth & Co. after reading a feature in Memphis Magazine.

He arrived without an appointment—only to be turned away politely. He returned the next week with a scheduled slot. During his consultation, he brought photos of his old suits from New York. The tailor noticed James had broad shoulders but a narrow waist—a common trait among tall men. He recommended a structured, single-breasted suit in navy Super 130s wool with a subtle pinstripe.

James returned for two fittings. When he received the suit, he wore it to his first court appearance. The judge complimented his appearance. James now owns three suits from King’s Cloth & Co. and refers colleagues to the shop.

Example 2: The Wedding Groom

Tyler, a musician from Nashville, was getting married in Memphis. He wanted a tuxedo that felt classic but not stuffy. He chose Beale Street Bespoke after seeing their Instagram feed of velvet lapels and hand-sewn buttons.

He arrived with a photo of Frank Sinatra in his 1957 tuxedo. The tailor suggested a midnight blue wool with peak lapels and satin trim—modernizing the classic look. Tyler opted for a hidden pocket for his wedding ring.

At the final fitting, he brought his date to see the suit. She cried. “It looks like it was made for you,” she said. Tyler wore the tuxedo to his wedding and still wears it for anniversaries. He now brings his sons for their first suit fittings.

Example 3: The Artist

Maya, a painter in the South Main Arts District, needed a custom jacket that could withstand paint splatters but still look polished for gallery openings. She visited South Main Tailors, known for their creative clientele.

She brought a denim jacket she loved for its fit and asked if they could replicate it in a durable cotton twill with reinforced elbows. The tailor agreed, using a technique called “double stitching” for durability.

Her jacket became a signature piece. It’s now in the collection of the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art, displayed as part of an exhibit on “Artists and Their Tools.”

Example 4: The Traveler

David, a frequent business traveler from Germany, stayed in Memphis for a week and needed a suit for a client meeting. He didn’t have time for a multi-week process. He visited The Memphis Atelier, which offers a “2-Week Express” service.

He provided measurements from a previous suit and selected a lightweight wool from a pre-selected swatch book. He had one fitting during his stay and received the suit via courier two weeks later. He now orders all his business suits from them remotely, sending updated measurements via email.

These stories show that whether you’re local or visiting, whether you’re seeking tradition or innovation, Memphis tailors adapt to your needs—if you know how to find them and how to engage with them.

FAQs

Can I walk into a Memphis tailor shop without an appointment?

Most high-end tailors in Memphis operate strictly by appointment. Walk-ins are rarely accepted, especially during peak seasons. Some smaller shops may accommodate you if they have availability, but it’s not guaranteed. Always call ahead.

How much does a custom suit cost in Memphis?

Prices vary based on fabric, construction, and tailor reputation. A basic custom suit starts at $800. Mid-range suits with Italian wool and full canvas construction range from $1,200–$2,500. High-end bespoke suits with hand-stitched details can exceed $4,000. Shirts start at $150, and trousers at $300.

How long does it take to get a custom suit?

Standard turnaround is 4–6 weeks. Rush services (2–3 weeks) are available for an additional 25–50% fee. Some tailors offer “semi-custom” options (pre-patterned) that can be ready in 2 weeks.

Do Memphis tailors alter ready-made clothing?

Yes. Many tailors offer alteration services for off-the-rack suits, dresses, and coats. Prices range from $40 for hemming pants to $150 for full suit restructuring. This is often more affordable than buying custom.

Are Memphis tailors open on weekends?

Most are open Saturday, typically 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Sunday hours are rare. Always confirm before visiting. Some tailors offer evening appointments for working professionals.

Do they ship garments?

Yes. Most tailors ship domestically via FedEx or UPS. International shipping is available but requires customs documentation and may incur additional fees. Always confirm shipping policies before placing your order.

Can I bring my own fabric?

Yes, if it’s suitable for tailoring. Many tailors welcome client-supplied fabrics, especially for unique requests. However, they may charge an additional fee to assess the material’s suitability and handle special sewing requirements.

What if I gain or lose weight after my fitting?

Most tailors offer one complimentary alteration within 90 days of delivery. Beyond that, minor adjustments are typically $25–$75. Always mention any significant weight changes before your final fitting.

Is tailoring worth the investment?

Yes. A well-made suit lasts 10–20 years with proper care. A $1,500 suit worn 50 times costs $30 per wear. A $500 off-the-rack suit may wear out in 2 years, costing $50 per wear. Beyond cost, the confidence and presence a custom garment provides are immeasurable.

Conclusion

Knowing how to get to the Memphis tailor shops is not merely about finding an address on a map. It’s about entering a world where craftsmanship, patience, and personalization converge. These shops are more than retail spaces—they are sanctuaries of artistry, where fabric becomes identity and measurement becomes memory.

From the historic streets of Beale Street to the creative corridors of South Main, Memphis tailors offer a rare blend of Southern hospitality and global technique. Their work is not mass-produced. It is hand-cut, hand-stitched, and hand-finished—with care, intention, and pride.

By following the steps outlined in this guide—researching your tailor, scheduling wisely, preparing thoughtfully, and engaging respectfully—you don’t just acquire a garment. You become part of a legacy.

Whether you’re dressing for a courtroom, a wedding, a gallery opening, or simply to feel confident in your own skin, the right suit, made by the right hands, will carry you farther than any off-the-rack alternative ever could.

So take the time. Plan your route. Make the appointment. Bring your photos and your shoes. Ask the questions. Listen to the answers. And when you walk out of that shop with your new garment in hand, know that you didn’t just buy clothes—you invested in a piece of Memphis history, stitched with care, meant to last.