There’s nothing quite like getting something custom made. While there certainly is no shortage of great quality pieces out there to buy, having a piece made specifically for you is an investment that pays itself back in dividends. Whether it be a business shirt cut to perfection or a pair of shoes that last for generations, you’ll never regret a bespoke item.

Though custom made and tailored pieces are less common these days than they once were, the Strand Arcade boasts numerous retailers who relish the attention to detail and old school approach involved in custom making pieces. Given the Strand Arcade’s history — at the time of its opening, it was deemed a first class shopping precinct given its high-end boutiques dedicated to bespoke outfitting — it’s no surprise the Arcade remains one of the few places in Sydney to offer such services. Marbo Shirt, a family owned tailor that’s been operating out of the Strand Arcade since 1991, specialise in perfecting the business shirt, while A. McDonald Shoemaker hand make ready-to-wear and custom shoes for every occasion, from the special to the everyday.

In celebration of exceptional bespoke pieces, we’re shining a light on the Strand Arcade retailers dedicated to crafting items to last a lifetime.

Marbo Shirt, Level 2

Marbo Shirt is Sydney’s premier tailor for impeccable shirts. Family owned and run since 1991, they’re pretty passionate about bespoke tailoring, and needless to say, they know a thing or two about what makes a perfect shirt. From the collar to the cuff, buttons to the placket, when working with the team at Marbo Shirt you can call the shots on every aspect of your piece.

Andrew McDonald Shoemaker, Level 2

If the shoe fits, it was probably made by Andrew McDonald Shoemaker, one of Sydney’s few made-to-order footwear specialists. Renowned for crafting impeccable shoes using traditional hand shoe making methods, Andrew McDonald and his team have been making original ready-to-wear and custom shoes to last a lifetime at the Strand Arcade since 1990.

Brent Wilson, Level 2

With a background working for Volcom and Wayne Cooper before starting his eponymous label, Brent Wilson knows what makes an impeccable suit. From the highest quality fabrics to considered cuts, Brent Wilson’s pieces are characterised by masculine silhouettes and classic colours and are both ready-to-wear or completely custom made.