Reader Questions: Tailors In Durban

Hey man! I just stumbled across your blog. Really great stuff, thanks.
I wanted to ask you very quickly if you could recommend a good tailor in Durban?
I am currently looking to buy a suit as I'm starting a new job soon, in London and it's important to me that I am looking as goo as I can be.
I am tired of dealing with salesmen in suit shops trying to upsell me on overpriced items when they don't have even the first clue about the fundamentals of style, let alone fit.
I will probably by a suit off the rack (budget restrictions), and then have it adjusted. I am also thinking of getting some shirts custom made.
Any help you can offer would be absolutely fantastic. I am open to anything in the Pietermaritzburg/Durban area.
Kind regards, Duncan
Hi Duncan
Thank you for your email and enquiry. I have tried a few tailors in Durban over the years and I have two that I use exclusively: Soli Omar Tailors and The Tailor Shop. The former is in central Durban and the latter in Montclair, 10 minutes south of Durban. My experiences with them have been varied, for different reasons, however I’ve been more than happy with the end result on all occasions. Whether it’s been work I’ve had redone due to an improper fit or an enquiry, I have always been a happy customer.
At the moment I’ve been frequenting The Tailor Shop, owned by Vic Gobrie, a whole lot more simply because of its proximity to my home. Their work is commendable and their customer service is exceptional. They engage the customer, carry out instructions to the tee, and they also offer suggestions where applicable. I’d advise that you speak to them and ask questions because they listen to everything. Also, don’t be hesitant to push the envelope because they are willing and the best they can do is try. Currently, I have a jacket that is being reworked into a waistcoat and I’m just waiting for the final product, maybe it’ll work, maybe it won’t, but, at least Vic will have tried.
I don’t have any experience in custom suits, therefore, I think it’s best if you say you’ll buy off the rack and then have it altered. I have read too many blogs that all speak the same thing when it comes to the fundamentals of custom suits that I have my doubts when it comes to South African tailors. I, honestly, really wonder about the quality, craftsmanship and handwork that goes into a custom suit made in SA. On this issue, I will encourage you to speak to Vic because through our many interactions I have come to know that he also make custom suits. This of course is another direction that this blog has been yearning to take.
I have absolutely nothing unpleasant to say about Soli Omar because I have had stellar results on all the work they’ve done for me. They are experienced, have been in existence for many years and everyone is knowledgeable in menswear and tailoring. In everything always communicate what you want done and that’s what must be carried out. At Soli Omar speak to Mohammed or Yunus, they are the two gentlemen I work with and they are definitely on top of their game.
I also like the idea of getting custom shirts and this points this blog in another direction which will be useful to us. I’m sure there are other reputable, quality tailors between Durban and Pietermaritzburg…I just need to get out more.
Soli Omar: 331 Monty Naicker Rd (formerly Pine str), Durban, 4001 031 305 5856
The Tailor Shop: 141 Jacobs Rd, Durban, 4001 031 465 7408
I sincerely hope you find what you’re looking for and get the best results.





PG: Man to man, generation to generation.