WHO IS HE? Sydney Mamane, 34, top-notch tailor and owner of Sydney's (795 Queen W., 416-603-3369).

The main floor of Sydney's is a high-end designer clothing boutique, which sells hand-printed t-shirts, Montreal's M0851 bag line and form-fitting suits. Upstairs is where the magic happens – Mamane creates custom-tailored jeans starting at $350, and Sydney's is the only shop in Toronto to offer this specific service.

MATERIAL MAN “I started working as a stylist and costumer apprentice in film and commercials. I became obsessed with jean material and finally resorted to making my own jeans after looking for the perfect pair,” says Mamane.

He used his tailoring skills to whip up pairs of jeans for friends for small fees. That circle of friends grew through word of mouth, and he finally opened his own shop almost a year ago.

CUTTING EDGE Mamane can often be found with a measuring tape hanging around his neck with chalk on his hands. “My store is like Old World meets modernity,” he says about his one-man tailoring operation. “I think we should be going back to making things ourselves.”

STYLE CITY “Toronto is a metropolis; like any big city, you get a bunch of different styles all together,” says Mamane about the diverse nature of Toronto, which is also reflected in his clientele. “I have everyone from indie-rocker kids to lawyers who have been shopping at Harry Rosen too long.”

Mamane often takes on the role of stylist with his customers, offering assistance to those looking to change up their existing wardrobe. “Most people are easy to work with because they don't have a sense of entitlement when they walk in the store. They want you to help them.”

PERFECT DAY IN TORONTO “I'd start my day by going to St. Lawrence Market (92 Front E., 416-392-7120) and buying a bunch of fresh ingredients for later. Then I'd go antique shopping on Queen West – Antiques on Queen (717 Queen W., 416-703-5588) and Fancies (823 Queen W., 416-657-8101) – followed by a good movie. The best way to finish my evening off would be making dinner for good friends.”