Lillian Botis has always sewn. The 52-year-old began sewing when she was just 12 years old, learning from her seamstress mother. Her brothers took up the family trade as well—both are now tailors here in Halifax. With that kind of pedigree, it should be a surprise to no one to see she’s got the top spot all sewn up. After 40 years of dressmaking and alterations, she still likes to make clothes for herself and her kids because, as she says, “I like to sew.” For Lillian, this business is a tailor-made fit. 5523 Spring Garden, 425-0018

1st runner-up Mic Mac Tailors, Mic Mac Mall, 463-1219

2nd runner-up Daniel’s Tailor Shop & Drycleaning, Park Lane Mall, 423-6330