Zubair tailor recalls decades of craft and celebrity clients

BASRA — In the 1970s, under a sign that read “Tailor of the People,” Abu Alaa opened a small shop in Zubair’s main market. Over the years, his name became part of the city’s memory, his suits dressing locals as well as Iraqi officials and artists.

“The first suit I ever made was for an engineer working in Zubair Oil,” Abu Alaa told 964media. “I finished two suits for him in just two weeks, and I considered that experience a good omen for my career. I still remember that moment with great pride.”

His work quickly reached Iraqi musicians. He recalled sewing urgently requested suits for singer Hussein Ne’ma in Nasiriyah, and spoke warmly of his friendship with Riyadh Ahmed, with whom he served in the army. “We were very close,” he said. Sabah al-Sahil also wore dozens of his tailored suits on stage.

The tailor’s career advanced after Sabri Kadhim, then head of Basra’s maritime transport, gifted him a Brother sewing machine. He said the name of his shop was inspired by his youth listening to Basra’s Voice of the People radio.

Fashion has shifted, he admitted. “People’s tastes are different now. Ready-made clothes dominate the market, after tailoring used to be the most popular choice, especially for special seasons. Today, suits are mostly worn only at weddings,” he said.

Still, Abu Alaa continues his craft in Zubair. Current prices, he said, are 200,000 dinars ($143) for a suit, 125,000 dinars ($89) for a jacket with a traditional robe, and 175,000 dinars ($125) for a jacket with a dishdasha.