Mia Wu

Current Owner / Senior Tailor

Born and raised in Taiwan, Mia Wu first learned how to sew from her mother on a Singer foot pedal sewing machine. She moved to Vancouver in 2013 to train in fashion design, illustration, and pattern skill at Blanche Macdonald Centre.

In 2014, she began an apprenticeship at Modernize Tailors with Bill Wong. He began to work closely with her to share his wisdom, skills, and expertise. Wu also had the opportunity to learn from other members of the family, including Park Wong who became a dear mentor as well. She found a strong sense of community and quickly honed her skills under the generous wings of Bill and Park, eventually deciding to carry forward the business as the new owner once Bill could no longer continue working himself. She worked with him until his passing in 2017.

“I am not from the family but Bill treated me like one [of his own]. He said, in the olden days, the Chinese tailors working for him were all immigrants. Just like me, we all came from different places, all far from home, but rooted in Chinatown so everyone took care of each other. Bill worked until the day before he went into the hospital and passed away that night. He loved his job and had a wonderful life. I appreciate all the support and help from the Wong family and the Chinatown community.”

Through the encouragement of Beverli Barnes, Vancouver fashion designer, and mentor Park Wong, Wu devoted her career to carrying forward the legacy of Modernize Tailors.

“I got the courage to do this from Park Wong and Beverli Barnes,” explains Mia. “The Master Jacket-maker, Park Wong worked in Modernize for 63 years. Beverli Barnes is a Vancouver fashion designer and a long-time friend of Bill’s who helped Blanche Macdonald build up its fashion program. They trained me and guided me through all these years. When the day came, they told me, ‘Mia, keep Modernize alive.’ So I did! I worked very hard to earn what I have today.”

Since taking on Modernize Tailors, Wu has introduced women's and children’s wear to the shop and welcomed apprentices to work with her. She is devoted to staying in Chinatown, supporting the local community and becoming Vancouver’s go-to tailor.

To learn more about Mia’s journey, read her interview from Blanche Macdonald Centre: Mia Wu Keeps History Alive at Modernize Tailors