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September is serving heritage with a twist from Thebe Magugu’s Mafeteng drop to Thabiso Musi’s Pick n Pay Clothing collab. Spring fever is in the air, too, bringing markets in full bloom and custom denim and individuality at Levi’s new Rosebank Tailor Shop. And since it’s also Tourism Month, why not wander through SANBI's National Botanical Gardens with 25% off annual membership to sweeten the deal?
CONTRA.Joburg finds
We spent the weekend of Sat, Aug 30 and Sun, Aug 3, 2025 art studio-hopping through Joburg's City Centre for CONTRA.Joburg and stumbled upon some seriously covetable finds. We couldn’t resist Joe Turpin’s quirky Egyptian cat artisinal candles, perfect for adding a playful touch to any space. The candles are R250 and are made to order, customised with your choice of colours and scents. You can order by DM on Joe Turpin's Instagram page.
Tradition meets power dressing in Thebe Magugu’s Mafeteng styles
September is Heritage Month in South Africa, and designer Thebe Magugu pens a love letter to lineage with a sporty twist. The Mafeteng women’s dress and Mafeteng men’s compression top reimagine Sotho heritage through a contemporary lens. Named after the Lesotho city where the Magugu family hails from, the dress elongates and slims the silhouette with elegant lines and traditional Sotho motifs, finished with athletic touches like a rubberised “Magugu” tag and sleek nylon zip. The compression top echoes this energy, fusing tradition with modern power dressing. Available from Wed, Sep 10, 2025 at Magugu House in Dunkeld and online at thebemagugu.com.
Passport to nature: Explore South Africa's garden with SANBI's membership
September is also Tourism Month, and South Africans can get 25% off an Individual Annual Membership at South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI), unlocking unlimited access to 11 National Botanical Gardens and two Zoological Gardens nationwide. Each visit comes with a beautifully illustrated passport to collect stamps, biodiversity facts, and even rewards like SANBI merch, seed hampers, and exclusive behind-the-scenes experiences. As SANBI’s marketing director Nontsikelelo Mpulo puts it: "With this passport to nature, South Africans can turn everyday outings into experiences that nurture both biodiversity and bonds." Get your membership here.
From Jeppe to the world: Tanya Zack’s portrait of Joburg
On our reading radar, The Chaos Precinct: Johannesburg as a port is a new book by writer and urban planner Tanya Zack. Fifteen years in the making, The Chaos Precinct is the culmination of Zack’s ongoing visits to Jeppe, with its tightly packed shops and frenzied flow of shoppers. In the book, she explores the characters and dynamics that define this space, tracing the routes of trade and migration that radiate from this bustling hub. In doing so, Zack not only captures what Joburg is today, but also gestures towards the possibilities of what it might become. You can order your copy online and read our full review here.
Fashion with purpose: Imprint SA x Women for Change
Although Women’s Month (August) has passed, women deserve to be honoured and celebrated every day. Fashion meets fearless change as fashion label Imprint SA teams up with Women for Change for a bold capsule collection, blending Afro-futuristic flair, powerful storytelling, and unapologetic activism. Designed with four remarkable South African women – actress Zikhona Sodlaka, broadcaster Penny Lebyane, publicist Lerato Sengadi, and broadcaster-presenter Pabi Moloi – each piece does more than turn heads; it turns profits into purpose. The collection features dresses in a variety of silhouettes with custom prints showcasing images of real women who were victims of femicide and violence. Their faces – brave, beautiful, gone too soon – honour gender-based violence survivors. Shop the collection online.
Fit and flair: Levi’s new Tailorshop
Now open at The Zone @ Rosebank, the Levi’s® Tailorshop invites you to personalise, alter, and elevate your denim with the expertise of Master Tailor, William Phala. Whether it’s laser-etched artwork, a perfect fit, or creative upcycling, the Tailorshop brings new life to your Levi’s. Services are completed within a day, and are ready to wear in a way that feels distinctly you.
The Young Designer Competition comes full circle with Jessica Scott
The final reveal in the 2024/25 Young Designer Competition is here, and it’s worth the wait. Designer Jessica Scott brings her winning pattern, Full Circle, to life in a striking new collection that celebrates “community, connection, and personal growth”. Inspired by life’s cycles – how progress isn’t always linear, but often circular – Scott’s design uses rhythmic circles, negative space, and bold striped details to create pieces that feel both thoughtful and playful. The three standout items include the Full Circle Vest, Full Circle Trousers (Something Good's first-ever trousers), and a Full Circle Reversible Blanket. This limited-edition drop is now available online for pre-orders.
Pulp Paperworks lands at 44 Stanley
When visiting 44 Stanley, be sure to stop by the new Pulp Paperworks store for artisanal journals, handmade postcards, and beautifully crafted paper creations. Browse A7 notebooks made from studio scraps and Shweshwe fabric, Journal the Journey journals, and handmade cards by Edition Verso, or pick up a passport holder for your next adventure. It’s a great spot to find something unique, celebrating the art of paper.
Heritage meets the runway: Pick n Pay x Thabiso Musi
Photo: Pick n Pay Clothing via Instagram.
Pick n Pay has named Thabiso Musi as 2025’s first winner of the Futurewear designer initiative, and he’s bringing history to the runway. Inspired by Krotoa, Khoi, and San culture, Musi’s Abstract Clay range blends feminine strength with African Brutalism, with A-line dresses, wrap tops, and earthy tones that reimagine the past while styling the future. The limited-edition PnP Clothing x Thabiso Musi collection is available in Pick n Pay Clothing stores nationwide and online.
Step up your downtime with Adidas Adimule slides
Meet the Adimule slides: Adidas’s elevated answer to off-duty style. A luxe twist on the classic Adilette, these slides pair a real cork sole with a suede footbed and suede upper for a premium feel that’s all about comfort. Designed for easy wear, they’re perfect for relaxed days. Available in three colours – core black, dark brown, and golden beige – the Adimule proves that comfort can look as good as it feels. You can get a pair at Adidas stores nationwide or online.
Market fun and shopping faves
DOUBLE THE TREASURES AT BROOKLYN MALL AND THE FIRS
Sat, Sep 6, 2025: Discover unique items like jewellery, accessories, ceramics, home décor, and more in a world of treasures at the Brooklyn Antique Fair – held at Brooklyn Mall, Pretoria, on the first Saturday of each month.
Sun, Sep 7, 2025: For treasures closer to home, you can head to its sister event, The Firs Antique Fair at The Firs in Rosebank, on the first Sunday of every month. Both fairs have a wide variety of special items that are sure to catch your eye.
STYLISH STEALS AT THE ROSEBANK SUNDAY MARKET
Sun, Sep 7 and Sun, Sep 14, 2025: On the first and second Sunday of every month, the Rosebank Sunday Market’s Dress for Less sale brings you high-quality, pre-loved clothing and accessories at unbeatable prices. This eco-friendly initiative is perfect for refreshing your wardrobe without breaking the bank.
Sun, Sep 21 and Sun, Sep 28, 2025: On the last two Sundays of the month, bargain hunters can dive into the flea market-style car boot sale, perfect for those who love antiques and more quirky finds. Plus, every Sunday from 09:00 – 16:00, you can explore unique gifts, discover local fashion, and indulge in delicious market eats.
THE ART OF LIVING SHOPPING EXPERIENCE
Fri, Sep 12 – Sun, Sep 14, 2025: A summertime pop-up at Steyn City is a curated celebration of all things decor, design, and fashion. It's free, family-friendly, and running all weekend from 10:00 – 16:00.
FIRST SUNDAY FUN AT VICTORIA YARDS
Sun, Sep 7, 2025: Victoria Yards is welcoming spring with style with a jam-packed First Sunday market. Filled with hands-on workshops like hand printing, soap making, and cupcake decorating. Plus thrifting, food trucks, and live music, you wouldn't want to greet the new season any other way.
JOHANNESBURG HERITAGE FOUNDATION'S BIG BOOK & MAP SALE
Sat, Sep 13 – Sun, Sep 14, 2025: The Johannesburg Heritage Foundation (JHF) marks Heritage Month with a weekend packed with history, stories, and city adventures. Expect a programme of expertly led tours that peel back the layers of Joburg’s past, revealing hidden histories, landmark buildings, and the fascinating characters who shaped the city. Alongside the tours, don’t miss the much-loved Big Book & Map Sale at Sisonke Hall at The Holy Family College in Parktown, where you'll find rare, out-of-print, and pre-loved reads waiting to be snapped up. Read here for more information on the tours and book sale.
PICNIC & THRIFT
Sat, Sep 27, 2025: Picnic & Thrift returns with a day of treasure hunting, tasty eats, and lazy-lawn lounging at the Rivonia Recreation Club in Sandton. Expect thrifted finds, food, drinks, and picnic space – so bring your blanket. What makes Picnic & Thrift extra fun is the theme attached to each market. Previous editions have included sunset hues of pink, orange, red, and earthy tones. For more information and to keep an eye on the upcoming theme, follow the Picnic & Thrift Instagram page.
THE LINDEN MARKET SPRING EDITION
Sat, Sep 27 – Sun, 28 Sep, 2025: The Linden Market (TLM) is turning 10, and they’re celebrating in full bloom. The Spring edition takes place at the Johannesburg Botanical Gardens in Emmarentia, continuing a year of festivity with over 150 hand-picked makers and vendors, plus a treasure trove of pre-loved fashion. Add to that live music, artisanal eats, craft cocktails, workshops, a kids’ corner, and even a little something special for the four-legged market-goers.
Save the date
Sat, Sep 6 – Brooklyn Antique Fair
Sun, Sep 7 – The Firs Antique Fair
Sun, Sep 7 and Sun, Sep 14 – Rosebank Sunday Market: Dress for Less
Sun, Sep 7 – First Sunday at Victoria Yards
Fri, Sep 12 – Sun, Sep 14 – The Art of Living shopping experience at Steyn City
Sat, Sep 13 and Sun, Sep 14 – Johannesburg Heritage Foundation's Big Book & Map Sale
Sat, Sep 27 – Picnic & Thrift
Sat, Sep 27 – Sun, Sep 28 – The Linden Market Spring Edition
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