Fifty-five years. A testament to dedication and craftsmanship. This is the remarkable tenure of Mr. Teo Kok Hwa, our esteemed Head of Production, affectionately known as "Uncle Teo" by his colleagues. His journey mirrors the evolution of made-to-measure tailoring in Singapore, a story intertwined with passion, perseverance, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
Uncle Teo's journey at CYC began humbly. He joined as a young boy of 16, tasked with a diverse array of duties – from running errands and delivering goods to showcasing garments through artful visual merchandising. These early experiences provided him with a deep understanding of the inner workings of the tailoring business, fostering a keen eye for detail and an appreciation for the customer experience.
He quickly found himself drawn to the artistry of transforming a flat piece of cloth into a garment that perfectly contours the human form. This fascination blossomed under the tutelage of Mr. Chiang Ping Choo, the son of the legendary Mr. Chiang Yik Ching, the founder of CYC. Mr. Chiang Ping Choo, a demanding yet inspiring mentor, instilled in young Teo the importance of unwavering dedication and meticulous attention to detail.
"Mr. Chiang Ping Choo was a demanding mentor," recalls Uncle Teo, his eyes twinkling with a fond memory. "He instilled in me the importance of unwavering dedication. He always emphasized, 'Regardless of what the customer can accept, always give your 100%. Even if your customer's expectations are 70/100, you should always go above and beyond to achieve 100%.' This philosophy continues to guide my work today.".
Beyond the technical skills, Mr. Chiang Ping Choo emphasized the importance of understanding the evolving human form and adapting to changing fashion trends. "He stressed the importance of constantly studying how the average human body proportions and fit preferences change over time," explains Uncle Teo. "This understanding drives our continuous refinement of garment blocks, ensuring that our creations remain timeless and relevant.".
While directly learning from Madam Foo Ah Neok, Mr. Chiang Yik Ching's wife, may not have involved specific anecdotes, her influence was palpable. Uncle Teo observed her meticulous approach, her keen eye for detail, and her unwavering commitment to quality. He witnessed firsthand how her dedication to perfection permeated every aspect of the tailoring process.
Uncle Teo remains the heart and soul of our production process. He meticulously studies each order from our tailoring consultants, analyzing the client's measurements, specific requests, and the nuances of their desired style.
"I spend my days immersed in the details of each order," explains Uncle Teo. "I analyze the measurements, consider the client's preferences, and ensure that the pattern reflects their unique needs and desires.".
Beyond his role as a master pattern maker, Uncle Teo is a dedicated mentor, sharing his decades of expertise with the next generation of tailors. He conducts regular training sessions, imparting his knowledge and guiding young tailors in the intricacies of the craft. "It's crucial to pass on the knowledge and traditions of this craft," emphasizes Uncle Teo. "I want to ensure that the legacy of CYC continues to thrive for years to come.".
Years of meticulous observation, countless trials, and countless errors – the path to mastery was paved with perseverance. Uncle Teo, with an unwavering dedication to his craft, emerged as a virtuoso of pattern drafting, his hands imbued with the wisdom of generations, the echoes of Mr. Chiang Ping Choo's teachings and the subtle influence of Madam Foo Ah Neok's meticulousness forever ingrained in his work.
While he may not interact directly with clients today, his influence permeates every aspect of our business. Uncle Teo's dedication, expertise, and unwavering commitment to excellence continue to shape the future of CYC. He ensures that we consistently deliver garments of the highest quality, a testament to a legacy built on passion, precision, and the enduring spirit of craftsmanship.
Continue the Legacy of Tailored Excellence
Ready to be a part of this enduring story of craftsmanship? Schedule your personal consultation and let our tailoring consultants translate your vision into a reality, imbued with the same passion and precision that defines Uncle Teo's legacy.