Experiencing the fabric markets
What a crazy environment. I recently explored the famous fabric markets of Shanghai. They are quite huge and quite a site to see. If you like clothes for a good price, that is the place to be. We entered a warehouse like structure and through the dusty plastic doors it was as if you jumped into blankets of cloth. There you can find anything and custom tailored to your exact measurements at that. It amazed me how store after store appeared to sell similar clothing, however there were 5 floors full of these shops. Quite the intense competition I must say. Of course it helpful to go where you know, so by all means is it ever so important to ask around and find the more highly recommended store fronts that pay attention to the utmost details. Luckily enough I know some people that have lived in Shanghai prior and were able to point me in the right direction. I met a elder gentleman who appeared to be working as a tailor since the dawn of time, and what attention to detail did this man pay. Within minutes of being in the shop I was measured in ways I never knew where possible. Taking the most precise measurements I was able to have a custom suit made that fit better than any piece of clothing I have ever tried on. Not just that but everything was customized to the T. Now I will note that although you may be referred from a friend, you will still need to bargain, as with almost everything in Shanghai, cloth is no different. Luckily with bargaining the price of these suits and custom clothes still comes out to a fraction of what you would pay anywhere else. The fabric markets is a must see for anyone visiting Shanghai.