What is an online darzi? Stitching without a shop visit

What a darzi traditionally does

A neighbourhood darzi is part measurer, part pattern cutter, part adviser. They look at your fabric and tell you whether there is enough for long sleeves. They ask whether you want the daman straight or rounded, the chaak high or low, the shalwar full or narrow. They remember how you like your necklines. Much of that knowledge lives in conversation, which is why moving it online means putting it into words and photos.

How each step works online

• The measuring: you take the measurements yourself, choose a standard UK size for us to confirm with you, send a garment that fits once we have said how, or ask for help measuring. Inches and centimetres are both fine. See the size guide.
• The design talk: instead of describing it at the counter, you upload a screenshot, a sketch or a photo, or pick one of our designs and ask for changes. Our guide on briefing a tailor with screenshots helps.
• The fabric check: on Stitching Only, you send photos of each piece first, and we confirm it is suitable and enough before you post it to us in Pakistan.
• The agreement: the design, measurements, total cost, delivery arrangements and processing time are set out in a written quote. Nothing is cut until it is agreed and paid in full.
• The handover: rather than collecting from the shop, the outfit is shipped to your address, with delivery and any import charges already in the quote.

What an online darzi cannot do

Some things only work in person, and it is better to know them before you order. We have no shops, studios or try-on appointments outside Pakistan, and nobody comes to your home. We do not alter clothes you already own, and we do not take rush orders. We also make women’s clothing only. If you need a quick hem on a ready-made suit, a tailor near you is the right person.

The questions you will still be asked

A good online darzi asks much the same questions as the one you remember. Have answers ready, or choose “advise me” where you are unsure.

• Neckline: round, V, boat, square, sweetheart or band collar. See neckline styles.
• Sleeves: length and shape, from sleeveless to full or bell sleeves.
• Kameez length and hem: hip, knee or longer, straight or rounded.
• Trousers: shalwar, straight, cigarette, wide-leg, sharara, gharara or churidar. See trouser styles.
• Lining and embellishment: whether the fabric needs lining, and whether you want delicate, detailed or statement work.
• Your date: when you need it, and whether that is fixed or flexible.

Ordering from abroad

Whether you search for an online darzi from Dubai, Riyadh or Manchester, the process is the same: one conversation, a written quote and an outfit made in Pakistan in 5 to 7 working days once the order is approved and paid, plus shipping time to you. The Stitching Only page for Saudi Arabia shows how sending fabric works from there.

To begin, send your design or start a Stitching Only quote for fabric you already own.