Today we’d like to introduce you to Mohammed Kalam.
Hi Mohammed, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
In the ’70s, I began studying sewing and tailoring, I quickly excelled. Then in the ’80s, I moved to Kuwait and worked as an apprentice under various Master Tailors. After a couple of years, I moved to NYC. In 1995, I was hired by Saks Fifth Avenue to do alterations and adjustments for their high-end clients. Soon, I became their master tailor. In the 2000s, I moved to Michigan because my wife wanted a quieter life to raise a family. I worked at Brooks Brothers in Somerset Collection Mall, and then started working part-time for Burberry. After a couple of years, I gained some loyal clients who asked me to start my own custom clothing business. In 2009, I launched my own custom suit business. I was lucky to have my loyal clients’ support and help. I quickly expanded my business to include women’s clothes and wedding/formal dresses. My specialties include tuxedos, top coats, bespoke menswear, women’s dresses, and bridal gowns.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The road to my success has had many ups and downs.
My ups have to be the support of my loyal clients and also, meeting many new people. Some of my clients do not have a standard body, so they cannot buy off the rack. When I create something that fits their body perfectly, and I see their smile and appreciation in their eyes, it brings my heart joy.
My downs, are the tariffs. A lot of my fabrics come from Italy and England, and the tariffs are horrible.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a custom bespoke tailor.
I specialize in custom clothing. I am probably known for my suits, but also my attention to detail. I know quality fabric and detail, if the garment requires hand stitching, I do it by hand.
I am proud of many things I have accomplished, but the one that really stands apart from everything else is, I was invited by Holland & Sherry to visit their headquarters and their production where they make their fabrics and materials.
I believe what makes me stand out from other tailors is my background. I trained with many european master tailors, and I was able to learn their skill and craft. Newer generations do not carry on their legacy, they do not know the attention to detail. I enjoy my craftmanship.
What would you say have been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
Patience. Some garments take time to do, whether it be hand stitching or recreating lines and seams. I believe that all master tailors have to have patience and honesty. As a master tailor, I have to be honest and explain that certain garments or fabrics are not suitable for their bodytype.
Pricing:
- Custom Suit, starting at $1,275.00
- Custom Shirt, starting at $195.00
- Custom Top Coat, starting at $1,300.00
- Custom Tuxedo, starting $1,400.00
- Custom Pants, starting at $425.00
Contact Info:
- Website: https://customtailormi.com/
