Seamstress / Tailor

Retrofête

  • New York, NY
  • 1 day ago

    Highlights

    This is a hands-on role working directly with our clients and our merchandise: fitting, altering, and repairing pieces so every garment leaves the store looking like it was made for the person wearing it. Fittings on the floor: assist the stylist and their client, meet clients, assess fit, pin and mark garments, explain what's possible and what isn't, and set realistic turnaround expectations.

    Numbers & Facts

    LocationNew York, NY

    Description

    We are looking for a skilled Seamstress or Tailor to support the launch of our in-house alterations service. This is a hands-on role working directly with our clients and our merchandise: fitting, altering, and repairing pieces so every garment leaves the store looking like it was made for the person wearing it.

    You'll be part of the store team, not tucked away in a back room. Some of your time will be spent at the machine; some will be spent on the floor with clients, pinning and marking during fittings.

     

    Responsibilities

    • Client alterations: hems, waist take in, taking garments in and out, sleeve and strap adjustments, button and closure work, seam and lining repairs.
    • Fittings on the floor: assist the stylist and their client, meet clients, assess fit, pin and mark garments, explain what's possible and what isn't, and set realistic turnaround expectations.
    • Delicate fabrics: hand-finish and alter silk, chiffon, lace, and beaded pieces with the care they require.
    • Stock repairs: mend damaged or returned merchandise so it can go back on the floor rather than be written off
    • Workflow management: log incoming alterations, tag and track garments, hit promised pickup dates, and keep the workroom organized.
    • Partner with the sales team: flag fit issues on the floor, suggest alteration options that help close a sale, and communicate timing to associates so they can update clients.

    Requirements

    • Demonstrated garment alteration experience (professional, bridal, costume, or comparable hands-on background)
    • Confident with hems, side seams, waist band and take in, sleeves, darts, zippers and closures.
    • Skilled with an industrial or domestic machine, plus hand-finishing techniques — blind hem, slip stitch, invisible repairs.
    • Comfortable working directly with clients during fittings, including a professional and discreet manner around body and sizing conversations
    • Reliable and able to commit to a consistent weekly schedule
    • Organized enough to track multiple garments and deadlines

     

    Nice to Have

    • Experience with luxury or designer merchandise
    • Beading, embroidery, or other hand embellishment repair
    • Knitwear repair
    • Familiarity with a serger and/or blind hem machine
    • Bilingual (a plus for client fittings)

    Benefits

    • Hourly Rate: $25 - $28
    • Hours: 16 - 24 hours per week
    • Sick Time

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