Once a bustling hub of fabric trading, the South Bund Soft-Spinning Material Market has reinvented itself with a remarkable flair. No longer simply a source of fabrics, it is emerging as Shanghai's premier destination for custom tailoring, drawing international recognition and a surge of global attention through social media buzz.

A new service for global shoppers

The latest boost to the market's international appeal comes from an unlikely partner: China Post.

Its Huangpu branch recently set up a temporary service point inside the market, allowing foreign visitors to enjoy a seamless experience: arrive with a suitcase, get measured for custom clothing, and ship garments directly home.

The service is already gaining traction. At Wu Yue Tailor, one of the market's viral boutiques, owner Yue Wenrong demonstrated the process in action.

After a quick call, a postal worker arrived with boxes and packaging materials. Within minutes, two freshly tailored shirts were carefully wrapped, labeled, and ready to ship.

"The two shirts weigh 0.49 kilograms," Yue said. "Shipping to Paris costs 260 yuan ($36.48), with delivery expected in five to seven working days."

Many of Yue's international clients now specifically request EMS. "They say China Post has a strong reputation worldwide, and the tracking system is very clear," he added.

From fabric hub to fashion landmark

Founded in 2005, the market has grown into a true landmark with 285 tailor shops. Its offerings span bespoke suits and evening gowns to silk homeware, earning it the title Tailor's Paradise of the East. More and more overseas visitors now plan their Shanghai trips around the tailoring schedule: placing orders on arrival and collecting finished garments before departure.

China's expanded visa-free transit policies have only accelerated this trend. To meet demand, China Post now supports shipments to more than 170 countries and regions. Its Huangpu branch revealed even bigger plans ahead, including themed post offices and cultural postcards to merge logistics with Shanghai's cultural identity, strengthening the city's push to become a global consumption hub.

The next chapter: Shopping meets leisure

The market's reinvention shows no signs of slowing down. Upcoming renovations promise a redesigned facade, a smoother interior layout, and new lifestyle spaces such as cafes and casual eateries.

By the end of this year, visitors will be able to sip Shanghai-style coffee while waiting for their custom garments, enjoying a space that blends shopping with leisure.

If you go

Address: No 399 Chenjiabang Road, Huangpu district

Business hours: 9 am to 6 pm

Metro Line 4: Exit 3, Nanpu Bridge Station

Source: Official WeChat account of the publicity department of the CPC Huangpu district committee at "shhuangpu"