The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word MODISTES
I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
M
O
D
I
S
T
E
S
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Could they produce the ultimate in tailored items" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case could they produce the ultimate in tailored items = modistes.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does MODISTES mean?
MODISTES noun- A person who makes or sells fashionable women's clothing, especially dresses or hats.