U.S. Tailors Face Retirement as Demand for Skilled Sewing Grows
In the U.S., the demand for skilled tailors and dressmakers is increasing as many professionals in the field retire. Kil Bae, a tailor in Manhattan, exemplifies this trend as he continues to work on custom alterations despite the aging workforce. Bae, who began his career in South Korea, is part of a shrinking group of skilled sewers, dressmakers, and tailors. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a 30% decline in the number of tailors over the past decade, with the median age of these workers being 54. The fashion industry is seeing a resurgence in demand for custom fits and alterations, driven by consumers seeking to personalize off-the-rack purchases and revive secondhand finds. Despite the growing need, the profession struggles to attract younger workers due to the physical demands and relatively low wages compared to other industries. 
