Welcome to the Custom Tailors & Designers Association

We help custom clothiers connect, learn, and grow their businesses

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January 16-18, 2027 | New York City

Designer Forum New York | Custom Clothing Tradeshow

DFNY is our biannual custom tradeshow, bringing together the very best in the industry. It’s a gathering of fabric suppliers, custom clothing and accessory manufacturers, associations, technology partners, retailers and custom clothiers for three days of networking, business development, training, and lots of fun!

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Who We Are

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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 140 years later, our members includes distinguished master tailors, designers, custom clothiers, and direct sellers from the United States and around the world.

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How We Help

The CTDA provides education and resources for custom tailors and clothiers, designers, retailers, garment manufacturers, and technology partners serving the custom clothing retail industry. Our members have access to webinars, training sessions, connection with titans in the industry, and attendance to our biannual tradeshow.

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Membership Perks
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Empower

Get the tools to grow, scale and provide the absolute best for your clients.

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Exposure

Showcase your business to clients and industry leaders, gain insights from the success of others, and acquire expert knowledge.

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Engage

Develop relationships with industry experts, leverage mentorship opportunities, and expand your network for growth and success.

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Elevate

Train to become a CTDA Certified Custom Clothier and enhance your skills with on-going education to excel in your craft.

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Our Webinars
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Designer Forum New York
Fashion Tradeshow Nyc
Our Members
fashion tradeshows near me
Training and Certification

CTDA Networking Events

Event List

Get access to our full suite of classes, other members, and the DFNY Tradeshow when you become a member.

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Member Testimonials

Leonard Logsdail Bespoke Tailors, NYC 

Leonard Logsdail

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"Since moving to the US in 1971, the CTDA has played an important part in my life as a “foreign” tailor now resident here.  It gave me the opportunity to meet and learn from my peers.  Something we all need (I am always striving to learn) in order to constantly improve our product."

Photographer: Massi Ninni  \\ From A Scent of Tailoring by Fabio Attanasio

Gladson New York

Guy Milinazzo

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“The CTDA provides a unique opportunity for members of the custom clothing industry to connect, share ideas, and learn from one another. The relationships built through the organization have helped strengthen our industry through collaboration among retailers, clothiers, and suppliers alike.”

Tailored Gents at Savile Row, Clayton, MO 

Darryl Tyler

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“Being a member of the CTDA has allowed me to build meaningful relationships with other professionals in the custom clothing industry while gaining valuable insights through educational panels and events. The connections and knowledge I've gained continue to inspire me and help me grow both personally and professionally.”

We Want YOU

  • to meet and learn from your peers in the industry

  • to make valuable connections with manufacturers, technology partners, and retailers

  • to become a Certified Custom Clothier

  • to grow your business faster

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Brand Partners