Authentic bespoke tailoring shops are generally divided into two main schools: one inherited techniques from the Japanese colonial era and the other one is Shanghainese masters who relocated to Taiwan following the Nationalist Government’s retreat.
The former group, consisting of tailor shops from the Japanese colonial era, was largely concentrated around Dadaocheng and Yanping North Road. Their techniques followed the Japanese tradition, characterized by meticulous craftsmanship, and they primarily served a local Taiwanese clientele.
The other school, the Shanghainese masters, carried on the traditional artistry of Shanghai. They predominantly served mainland Chinese political and business elites, as well as military officials. These shops were mostly located along Bo’ai Road and Hengyang Road, with some situated in the Zhongshan North Road area and within major hotels.
In 1965, following the signing of the Agreement on the Status of United States Armed Forces in the Republic of China and the full-scale outbreak of the Vietnam War, a massive influx of American military personnel arrived in Taiwan for stationing or R&R (Rest and Recuperation). This had a profound impact on Taiwan’s economy, society, and culture—with the tailoring industry becoming a major beneficiary of this boom. It was during this pivotal time in 1966 that Mr. James Lin, the founder of Leader, arrived in Taipei to build his career. Catching this "favorable wind," he entered the industry and has continued his dedicated struggle to this day.