English
Tailor (Damenkleidermacher)
GewO §94 Z.12
Verified: April 2026
Key Facts
- Type: Regulated trade (Handwerk)
- Qualification: Master exam (Meisterpruefung) or equivalent
- Registration cost: Free (€0)
- Exam fees: Covered by government since July 2023
- Scope: Custom women's clothing, alterations, fashion design
What This Trade Covers
- Design and production of custom women's clothing (bespoke tailoring)
- Pattern making and draping for individual clients
- Alterations and repairs of women's garments
- Bridal wear and evening gown creation
- Small-batch fashion production and atelier work
- Traditional Austrian costume (Tracht and Dirndl) tailoring
Damenkleidermacher vs. Herrenkleidermacher
Austrian trade law distinguishes between women's tailoring (Damenkleidermacher,
§94 Z.12) and men's tailoring (Herrenkleidermacher, §94 Z.27).
These are separate regulated trades with individual qualification exams.
Many tailors register for both to serve all clients.
Related Guides
Legally binding: German text of GewO 1994.