I had the best experience with Zanobia alterations! One of my favorite dresses sustained a break in the zipper, rendering this beautiful piece completely unwearable. I met with her, who shared with me that it could be a tough fix due to the unique color of the dress, also because it was a hidden or internalized zipper it would be a challenge. She communicated very professionally with me via email regarding the process - - which unfortunately did take numerous weeks because it required custom ordering a zipper from a separate manufacturer. Even when a manufacturing company sent her a zipper she knew it was the wrong color.... due to the importance of the piece she was not willing to except a sub-par match. Again her communication was excellent with me throughout the process. At the end she was able to find a perfect match for the zipper and did the work in an amazing fashion!! This dress has been restored to its former brilliance! I have nothing but the highest compliments for her artisanry, professionalism and communication. As a surgeon-in-training, I will say that her communication skills and her dedication to pursue the best possible outcome despite challenges is truly an inspiration. Should I have future needs for alterations I will definitely be returning here and I will recommend her services to all my colleagues. Also of note she provides a discount for Duke Health employees! read more

Attention, Durham: Zanobia Sewing & Alterations is yet one more reason Durham ROCKS! If you're looking for expert tailoring alterations and/or unique, eye-catching fabric creations, this is the place. For quick turnaround and excellent execution on your alteration needs, Farheen--a true powerhouse at the sewing machine--is my first choice. She's also quickly become my go-to choice for creative, expertly handcrafted items. Here's why: Over the last year I've watched Farheen introduce and continue to expand her inventory, and refine her technique. She uses top-notch materials, has a wonderful eye for color and pattern pairings, always demonstrates a keen attention to details large and small, and regularly couples a marvelous dash of whimsy with a spot-on sense of practicality. There's a clear love of, and reverence for, her craft in every piece--each of which is one-of-a-kind. So, what have I purchased so far? Placemats, dinner napkins, purses, an eyeglass case, cosmetic bags, a table runner, and coin purses. (And that's just a sampling of her varied offerings!) Some are gifts; many others, I gleefully confess, are treats for myself and our home. I frequently get compliments on my Farheen-fashioned items, along with the inevitable query, "Where did you get that?!" Well, now you know . . . read more

She did a wonderful job on all fronts. She was timely, professional, cognizant of covid, affordable, and had a lot of great input. I ordered a bridesmaids dress a tad too small, but there wasn't enough fabric to let it out. She was able to come up with a new design that allowed me to wear the dress while breathing and it looks wonderful! The sew job is great -- looks just like it did coming from the dressmaker. We did have to go to her home office where we all wore masks and were able to safely get services done. She communicated well throughout the process and she turned a negative situation into a positive one. Highly recommend her for any alteration services you need! We will definitely be going back to her once my fiance's suit comes in to get his pants altered! read more

I had a really good experience with this shop! I needed a silk dress hemmed and a few pants taken in. The owner was so nice and patient with measuring each piece and giving advice on what alterations I needed. She did all 3 pieces of clothing in one week (probably would have done it faster if I had asked). The dress came out perfect, and the edges are just like the original! The pants were taken in very professionally and were a great fit. She was super pleasant to work with! The prices ended up being $40 for the hem and $20 for each pair of pants. I thought it was a fair price, but I didn't have other prices to compare it with. All in all, very happy with my experience! read more

Zanobia is extremely talented and creative when it comes to alterations! She did a fantastic job bringing in the waist on a pair of dress pants without changing the style. Additionally, when I returned to work at the hospital, she made several masks from fabric I gave her and they are the best fitting masks I have found. I've gotten lots of compliments and they have made great gifts. Zanobia's kindness and talent makes the chore of alterations very easy! read more

I have had a variety of alterations done by Farheen in the past 2 years and have bought several of her sewing creations, including a bulk order of shoulder and cross-body bags for holiday gifts last year. I have always found her to be extremely pleasant and friendly, professional, and very willing to accommodate any special requests or complaints. I highly recommend Farheen and "Zanobia" for any sewing and alteration needs! read more

Zanobia did a great job altering two pairs of pants and a blouse for me recently. She was clear about what she would do and what the results would be and they turned out great! Everyone was very friendly and professional and the jobs were done in a very reasonable amount of time. Her masks are also very well made and comfortable! Highly recommended! read more

Zanobia was very welcoming and really listened to my alteration requests. She was able to alter my bridesmaid dress in a short time frame and pricing was more than fair! She was also happy to receive a picture of me in the dress at the wedding. Will request her services in the future! read more

I needed some scrubs altered so I found the closest place with the best reviews. Turns out the reviews were true! Incredible service!!! The owners are extremely nice, their work is incredible, and they are reasonably priced. I will definitely be returning when I need more alterations. read more

The BEST Sewing/Alterations I've gone to! The staff was friendly and professional. My work pants I got altered now fit like they were made just for me! I would recommended Zanobia Sewing Alterations to anyone! Very happy with my experience read more

Farheen is the best seamstress in Durham. She sewed whole garments for me, and she can do a clean rolled hem in minutes. She's comfortable working with silk and silk wool, and I am planning to go to her with any future sewing needs I have. read more

Farheen is a genius with a needle. She has helped me get and stay in clothes I love but weren't designed for my body. And she is a true delight - I feel like my clothes are infused with her positive spirit. Check out Zanobia Sewinga read more

Zanobia did a fantastic job of tapering and adjusting some jeans for me. Incredibly kind and competent person to do business with. Fair pricing for remarkable work. I will be back for future alterations of my clothing. read more

I highly recommend Zanobia! The staff could not have been kinder and were able to quickly alter the item I brought in. They were professional, clean, and did an absolutely wonderful job! Will definitely return. read more

If you're looking for someone extremely kind and knowledgeable about sewing-this is the place! I was really touched by how caring and present the owner is, would highly recommend supporting her! read more

She is really the best in Durham. Great work very good price and wonderful job. I will highly recommend Zanobia Sewing & Alterations. read more

I loved my experience here! My bridesmaids dress was perfectly hemmed for the wedding I was in and I will definitely be returning!