Committed to the pursuit of perfection in tailored clothing.

Who We Are

The Custom Tailors & Designers Association (CTDA) is the oldest continuously operating trade organization in the United States. Founded in 1880 in Columbus, Ohio, it was established as a venue through which ideas and techniques for design, pattern making, fitting, cutting and tailoring could be shared and exchanged.

Today, more than 135 years later, the organization continues to thrive thanks to the demand for high quality custom clothing – a demand that is ever on the increase as affluent consumers everywhere seek customization in many aspects of their lives. CTDA members meet the demand with custom clothing and accessories. Valued vendor associate members provide goods such as custom shirts, fabrics and accessories, as well as cut, make and trim services and other tools vital to CTDA members. An accredited educational program enriches the expertise of our profession, and provides recognition for those most accomplished in the field.

Membership includes distinguished master tailors, designers, custom clothiers and direct sellers from the United States and from around the world who create fine custom clothing for discerning clients. They are joined by Vendor Members who supply the products and services the merchants need to exercise their craft.

More Info

Designer Forum New York

Our semiannual trade shows, held in Manhattan, provide a one-stop shopping experience in January and July for merchant members and non-members of the CTDA to interact with fabric vendors, custom-houses, and other suppliers to the bespoke trade. The list of invited guests is extensive and includes the finest upscale menswear and womenswear buyers in the U.S., Canada and around the world. Our hotel suite showroom format promotes a boutique like trade show setting.

Training Certifications

The CTDA, created and supported by the custom clothing industry and certified master tailors, is the premier educational organization in America to obtain all the skills necessary to build a successful custom clothing business. The program provides extensive training in all aspects of the custom clothing industry from Measuring to business development. All courses are taught by industry experts with extensive knowledge and experience in the course subject.

CTDA Exhibits at Chicago Collective

The CTDA is a proud exhibitor of the Chicago Collective, the national Midwest menswear show that takes place every February and August. Over 20 CTDA members exhibit, representing the finest brands in men’s custom apparel & accessories and trade suppliers. The show features a modern open-booth format with a layout that spans the entire 7th Floor – nearly two square city blocks! We look forward to you visiting with us at the Chicago Collective.

Peter A. Roberti

President

A Message From Our President

It is a great honor to serve as the President of the Custom Tailors and Designers Association. I am humbled to be a part of an organization that dates back to 1880, with many of our members becoming a part of history.

Whether tailoring garments for Presidents or for industry leaders, our members have put their hands on the many people who have helped shape the world we live in today. It all begins with either a tailor or clothier taking measurements, and transforming those numbers into a garment custom fit for the person who just might possibly change the world.

Whether you are a Custom Tailor, Clothier or Supplier, the CTDA has something to offer you. As President, it is my goal to continue the growth of the organization, strive to make our education classes the finest in the industry, and promote Custom Clothing through the CTDA’s many outlets.

I ask that you join me in this journey, by either joining the CTDA for the first time or continuing your valued membership, in working together to make all our customers look and feel their very best.

With regards,

Peter A. Roberti
President, Custom Tailors & Designers Association
Vice President of Retail Sales, Adrian Jules Custom Clothiers