Custom Made
1. TATZU Custom Made
TATZU offers custom-made clothing created by dismantling vintage Japanese kimono and reconstructing them into contemporary garments.
Every project is directed by TATZU, a Japanese fashion designer and pattern maker.
With an atelier and production workshop in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, TATZU approaches garment creation not only through design but also through an understanding of garment construction and original pattern development.
Behind every custom-made piece is a production environment that TATZU has built over many years.
An established Japanese sourcing network that continuously supplies vintage kimono.
An inventory of more than 1,000 kimono, haori, and obi at any given time.
Long-term production partners who have developed their skills through years of collaboration.
An integrated production process covering kimono selection, design, pattern making, motif placement and matching, cutting, sewing, and finishing.
And on-site quality control conducted personally by the Japanese designer.
From sourcing the original textile to inspecting the completed garment, TATZU is involved in every stage.
The TATZU brand and TATZU the designer are one and the same.
Remade Kimono. Reborn Identity.
TATZU designs, participates in production, and brings each creation to life through its presentation.
From making the garment to expressing its identity beyond the finished piece, every stage is part of TATZU's design.
TATZU Fashion Show at Sofitel Hotel in Phnom Penh
TATZU Production Video
2. Created from Scratch, for One Person.
Every TATZU custom-made project begins with a conversation about the garment you want to create.
What kind of garment do you have in mind?
What silhouette would you like?
When and where will you wear it?
Jackets, hoodies, shirts, vests, skirts, pants, and dresses.
From everyday clothing to a special piece for an important occasion or a stage performance.
After discussing your preferences, we select the vintage kimono together, based on the garment you want to create.
Each piece is individually designed and produced to bring out the distinctive character of the selected kimono.
Rather than fitting vintage fabric into a predetermined design, we create a garment that could only exist through the combination of you and that particular textile.
3. Choose Your Kimono from a Wide Range of Colors and Patterns.
A One-of-a-Kind Textile for Your One-of-a-Kind Garment.
You do not need to choose your kimono before starting a custom-made order.
"I'd like something mainly black."
"I want to incorporate red."
"I prefer bold, decorative patterns."
"I'm looking for something understated."
We begin by discussing your preferred colors and overall aesthetic. From TATZU's extensive inventory, we select textiles that match your vision and present several options.
This wide selection is made possible by TATZU's own established vintage kimono sourcing network in Japan.
Newly sourced kimono arrive regularly. Each piece is inspected, organized, and managed as a potential material for garment production.
We can also combine different kimono or carefully preserved fabric remnants from previous projects within a single design.
For example, a contrasting textile can be introduced into the sleeves or pockets. We can suggest combinations of materials according to your preferences.
Because no two vintage kimono are identical, selecting the textile is itself an important part of the custom design process.
You may also commission a garment using a treasured kimono that you already own. Please see Section 7, "How to Order," for details.
Your one-of-a-kind garment begins with choosing its textile.
4. From Design to Completion: Our Production Process
How does a vintage Japanese kimono become a contemporary garment?
Once the design direction and the kimono have been selected, the production process begins.
Developing the design into a detailed concept.
Dismantling the kimono, washing the fabric, and preparing it through pressing.
Creating the pattern and determining motif placement and matching.
Then cutting, sewing, finishing, and quality inspection.
Because every textile is different, the same production method cannot be applied to every garment.
Here is how each custom-made piece takes shape, from the initial design to completion.
01 | Developing the Design
Based on your preferences and the selected kimono, TATZU develops the design through sketches, gradually defining the garment's final form.
How should the silhouette and volume be constructed?
How should the textile patterns appear on the finished garment?
While assessing the amount of usable fabric, we plan the overall construction and approximate motif placement.
At this stage, we share the proposed design with you and take the necessary measurements.
Depending on the garment and its intended use, we also consider whether a lining is appropriate, taking into account the textile's texture and comfort.
Buttons, zippers, and other components are selected in consultation with you, considering the overall design balance.
Once the design direction is agreed upon, the project moves into production.
02 | Dismantling, Washing & Fabric Preparation
The selected vintage kimono is carefully dismantled, returning it to its original fabric panels.
Before cutting, the fabric is washed with water.
This pre-washing process helps reduce the risk of shrinkage and dimensional changes caused by subsequent cleaning and care, as much as reasonably possible.
Our consideration extends beyond the moment the garment is completed. We also think about how it will be worn and maintained over time.
After washing and drying, the fabric is pressed and prepared for the next stage.
This process requires additional time and effort, but it is not omitted.
Preparing the textile with the finished garment's future in mind is part of TATZU's approach to quality.
03 | Pattern Making, Motif Placement & Pattern Matching
At TATZU, garment design, pattern making, and motif placement are considered together.
Unlike conventional wide-width apparel fabrics, traditional kimono textiles have limited widths and often feature carefully composed decorative patterns.
Which motifs should appear on the front?
Which sections should be used for the back and sleeves?
How should the left and right sides connect?
Where will the patterns appear when the garment is worn?
Using the actual garment patterns alongside the selected kimono fabric, we determine the final motif placement while considering your preferences and the overall visual balance.
Where the available fabric and patterns allow, we also plan motif matching across different garment sections, including the body and pockets, so that the design appears continuous.
Consider the chest pocket of a jacket or shirt.
Rather than simply placing a pocket over the main fabric, we adjust the cutting positions so the motif flows naturally from the garment body across the pocket.
Because every vintage kimono has different patterns, the same layout cannot be repeated for every project.
If adjustments to the originally proposed motif placement or appearance become necessary, we consult with you before cutting when appropriate.
The goal is not simply to position decorative patterns, but to design their relationship with the entire garment.
As both a fashion designer and pattern maker, TATZU develops the pattern and motif placement together, creating a new visual composition from the original vintage kimono.
04 | Cutting
Once the garment pattern, motif placement, and pattern matching have been finalized, each component is cut individually.
Every vintage kimono is one of a kind.
Once the fabric has been cut, it cannot be returned to its original state.
For this reason, before cutting begins, we make a final check of motif positions and the balance between the front, back, left, and right sections, including the sleeves.
Working to make the most of the available fabric, each component is accurately cut according to the garment pattern and the planned motif layout.
It is the moment when a kimono with a long history begins taking on its next form.
05 | Sewing & Garment Construction
At this stage, flat fabric components begin to take the three-dimensional form of a garment.
Vintage kimono fabrics, including silk, vary in thickness, softness, structure, and texture.
For that reason, sewing methods must be adapted to the characteristics of each textile and the intended design, rather than applying the same techniques to every piece.
Each component is joined accurately to preserve the silhouette established through pattern making.
Even a difference of a few millimeters can affect the final shape and finish of a garment.
Consider the collar of a jacket.
By introducing subtle differences between the outer and inner collar patterns and accounting for how the fabric turns when sewn, we can create a refined collar with seams that are less visible from the outside.
How should curved sections be joined?
Where should ease be introduced?
How will the volume fall when the garment is worn?
When necessary, the garment is placed on a mannequin to assess three-dimensional balance that cannot be judged from flat pattern pieces alone.
The interior construction receives the same attention.
Seam allowances and edge-finishing techniques are selected according to the fabric and garment section, with consideration for fraying and durability.
A refined silhouette and the structural strength of a well-made garment.
Visible details and hidden construction alike contribute to the quality of the finished piece.
06 | A Production Team Built Through Years of Collaboration
Behind TATZU's garments is a partner workshop whose team has developed its skills through approximately ten years of working together.
This relationship goes far beyond handing over completed designs and requesting sewing services.
TATZU personally shares approaches to pattern making, sewing techniques, and material handling with the production staff, developing practical expertise together through the creation of many garments.
Pattern makers who understand TATZU's design intentions and collaborate on garment construction.
Sewing staff who understand the characteristics of each textile and transform it into a finished piece.
And a shared understanding developed through years of working side by side.
A production system in which the designer and the makers have developed their skills together.
This long-standing collaboration forms the foundation of TATZU's garment production.
07 | Finishing, Inspection & Completion
After sewing, each garment is inspected individually for silhouette, measurements, stitching, motif appearance, and overall finish, with final adjustments made where necessary.
For customers who can visit our atelier in Phnom Penh, a fitting may be arranged when appropriate, allowing us to assess comfort and make final adjustments before delivery.
For customers ordering from other locations, the garment is completed according to the measurements confirmed in advance.
Through these stages and the work of many skilled hands, a vintage kimono is transformed into a new garment.
Patterns that once belonged to a traditional kimono become part of a different composition, moving again within a contemporary silhouette.
Because the original textile is unique, an identical garment can never be reproduced.
No two garments are ever the same.
OPTION
Custom Embroidery
TATZU can also discuss custom embroidery options, depending on the garment design and textile.
If you would like to add a name, initials, or an original motif, please provide a clear design file in JPG, PDF, or a similar format.
Embroidery is generally limited to designs within approximately 10 cm in diameter.
Availability will be confirmed after reviewing the material, design, placement, and production feasibility.
5. The Designer Is Present on the Production Floor.
TATZU's current production system was not built overnight.
TATZU's approach to garment making began with studying textiles and dyeing in Japan, developing a deep understanding of the materials themselves.
After becoming independent, TATZU moved to India, where he lived and worked directly in textile production.
His experience included fabric production using weaving looms and natural dyeing, providing firsthand knowledge of the process from raw material to finished garment.
He later traveled across Europe, visiting production environments and meeting designers and craftspeople, encountering different approaches to design, craftsmanship, creativity, and quality.
Materials, design, pattern making, sewing, production, and quality.
Through direct experience in different countries, TATZU developed a practical understanding of the elements required to bring a garment to completion.
Then came Phnom Penh, Cambodia.
Rather than joining an established production organization, TATZU personally sought out local craftspeople and production partners, gradually building the present production network through the experience of making garments together.
Working internationally means navigating differences in language, culture, and professional approaches.
Having lived and worked overseas, TATZU developed his English communication skills and now communicates technical production requirements directly to the team in English, including design intentions, textiles, patterns, specifications, sample reviews, and revisions.
The objective has never been to impose one person's values without consideration.
Instead, TATZU works to understand different cultural perspectives while establishing shared standards for garment quality.
If something is not understood, we explain it again.
If a problem arises, we examine it together.
If the result is not right, we make corrections and try again.
Respect for people. No compromise on quality.
This approach has built long-term working relationships and continues to support TATZU's production standards today.
TATZU remains based in Phnom Penh and personally involved in the production process as a Japanese fashion designer and pattern maker.
Depending on the requirements of each project, he reviews patterns, sewing details, sample results, and necessary adjustments directly with the production team.
He also personally inspects each completed garment.
Through direct communication between the designer and the makers, design intentions are translated accurately into finished clothing.
Knowledge of textiles developed in Japan, practical experience gained in India and Europe, and years of garment production in Phnom Penh.
All of these experiences come together in garments produced according to TATZU's Japanese quality standards.
This is the foundation of TATZU's approach to quality control.
6. Previous Custom-Made Works
Every custom-made garment TATZU has created began with a different customer's vision and a different vintage textile.
To date, TATZU has produced more than 500 custom-made garments reconstructed from vintage Japanese kimono.
No two textiles or motif layouts are the same.
Each garment is created for one individual, combining their preferences with the distinctive character of a one-of-a-kind vintage kimono.
A selection of our previous creations is featured in our Custom Works collection.
We will continue adding both recent and earlier projects, together with their individual production stories.
You can also explore many of our previous custom-made creations on Instagram.
→ VIEW CUSTOM WORKS
→ VIEW OUR INSTAGRAM
7. How to Order Your Custom-Made Garment
If you are interested in commissioning a custom-made piece, start by telling us what you would like to create.
The following information will help us understand your request:
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The type of garment, such as a jacket or dress
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Your preferred silhouette and reference images
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Desired colors and patterns
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The occasion or intended use
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Your size and measurements
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Whether you would like pockets
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Whether you would like a lining
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Preferred buttons, zippers, or other components
Based on your preferences, TATZU will suggest vintage kimono suitable for the garment you want to create.
You may also commission a garment using a treasured kimono you already own. In that case, you will need to send the kimono to TATZU's atelier before production begins. Shipping costs to our atelier are the customer's responsibility.
Once the kimono has been selected, TATZU will work with you to develop the design, considering the textile's characteristics, available fabric quantity, silhouette, motif placement, and garment specifications.
You do not need to decide every detail before contacting us. We can begin with your ideas and develop the final garment together.
One garment in the world, created from vintage Japanese kimono.
Reference Prices
Custom-made prices vary depending on the design, specifications, and vintage kimono selected.
Jackets — from US$400
Hoodies — from US$300
Vests — from US$250
Shirts — from US$150
Skirts & Pants — from US$250
Dresses — from US$400
These are reference prices. Other garment categories can also be discussed.
A quotation will be provided after reviewing your requirements.
The final price may change if the design or specifications are modified.
Production Lead Time
The estimated production time is approximately 2–4 weeks after the design and specifications have been finalized and payment has been completed.
Actual lead times vary depending on the design, specifications, and production schedule. A more specific delivery estimate will be provided with your quotation.
For customers collecting their garments in Phnom Penh, a fitting can be arranged at the TATZU atelier after production, with final adjustments made where necessary before collection.
Remote & International Orders
Customers outside Phnom Penh can consult with us and place custom-made orders online.
Garments are produced according to the measurements provided by the customer and shipped to the designated address once completed.
Shipping methods and costs vary by destination. We will provide the shipping cost in advance, to be paid together with the garment price.
Please note that alterations after completion are generally not available for remote or international orders.
Payment Methods
Payment can be made by credit card through our online store or by bank transfer.
Available payment arrangements will be explained when we provide your quotation.
For custom-made inquiries and quotations, please use the contact form below.
8. For Brands & Businesses
TATZU's textile sourcing capabilities and production network are not limited to individual custom-made garments.
We also provide OEM/ODM services for fashion brands, retailers, and businesses.
Based on designs and specifications supplied by clients, Japanese fashion designer and pattern maker TATZU reviews each project and communicates directly with the Phnom Penh production team, coordinating pattern making, sample development, production runs, finishing, and quality control.
We can also support design development from the initial concept stage or undertake selected stages of the production process.
Projects can use vintage Japanese kimono from TATZU's inventory or fabrics supplied by the client.
In addition to apparel, we welcome inquiries about bags, interior textile products, and other items according to your production requirements.
Experience developed through one-of-a-kind garment creation, combined with a production network built over many years.
Together, these capabilities allow TATZU to transform your design and quality requirements into finished products.
→ EXPLORE OEM / ODM
