Beloved Tailor Kilja Kim to Retire After 35 Years in Orinda

ORINDA, Calif. – Kilja Kim, the owner of Edelweiss Tailoring & Cleaners, will close her iconic business after 35 years of operation on Friday, Feb. 28, 2025. The well-respected tailor has been a staple in the Orinda community, providing high-quality alterations and laundry services while becoming a beloved figure to many residents.

Located on bustling Moraga Way, Edelweiss has endured through changes in the neighborhood, maintaining its presence while many businesses have come and gone. Kim first opened the shop at the age of 50, fulfilling a lifelong dream to work in a field she adores. Her expertise and traditional tailoring methods have attracted a loyal customer base who often describe the shop as an institution.

“Kilja isn’t just a tailor; she’s part of our lives,” said longtime customer Matthew Hernandez, as he reminisced about bringing his now-adult son to Kim for alterations when he was just a toddler. “She’s seen our families grow, and we’ve turned to her for those important moments, be it for graduations or weddings.”

Since announcing her retirement, Kim has received an outpouring of goodwill from the community. Customers have flocked to the shop with flowers, cards, and heartfelt messages celebrating her contributions. Many have shared how Kim’s meticulous alterations have paralleled key moments in their own lives, marking their growth through the years.

The shop’s warm atmosphere, enhanced by classical music and decor featuring personal touches such as family photos and art, has made it a favorite gathering place. It’s a reflection of Kim’s love for her family, especially her four grandchildren, to whom she hopes to dedicate more time.

Born in Korea, Kim spent part of her early life in Switzerland, where she drew inspiration for her business’s name from the edelweiss flower. Her husband and children often celebrated her adventurous spirit, which included a love for classic films like “The Sound of Music,” that popularized the flower and its significance.

On Tuesday, Feb. 25, Orinda’s Mayor Latika Malkani paid a visit to Kim, recognizing her contributions to the town and thanking her for more than three decades of dedicated service. “Edelweiss Tailoring is such a cherished part of our community fabric, and we are grateful for Kilja’s passion and commitment,” Malkani stated.

As her career wraps up, Kim’s health and limited mobility have led her to make this difficult decision despite her vow to remain active until age 90. “I’m happy to not have to work as much, but I’m sad too,” Kim said, expressing her mixed emotions about stepping away from a job she loved. She looks forward to spending more time with family, particularly her grandchildren, who live in Dublin, Ireland.

The closure of Edelweiss is not just an end of a business; it marks the conclusion of an era for residents who have cherished Kim’s handiwork and kindness. As the community prepares to bid farewell to a local landmark, many reflect on how Kim’s presence has enriched their lives over the years.