44 Stanley may be best known for its boutique stores and courtyard cafès but what you might not know is that there are a number of specialist stores there offering advice, repairs and custom work. Whether it's new hairdo, have a busted pair of sneakers in need of reviving, or a record player which no longer sounds quite like it used to, there is a spot at 44 which can sort you out. We think what sets many of these places apart is the passion the people have for what they do and the deep interest they take in their craft as a result.
Tucked away in one of 44 Stanley's passages, you'll know you're at King Cobbler by the smell of leather and shoe polish. This small store is King Cobbler's second branch in Johannesburg with their main workshop located in town. Their move to 44 came about in 2019 when Brian Green, the owner of 44 Stanley, took a pair of boots to them for repairs. He was so impressed that he insisted they join him at 44 Stanley. After surviving the tumultuous period of 2020 King Cobbler at 44 Stanley is now the place to go to for all things shoes. From simple polishes and cleans to resoling and stitching you'll be able to get that pair of shoes you've worn to the ground looking like new again. They really are a wonder!
Ifuku gets its name from the Japanese word for clothes and its easy to see why when chatting to the owner Rodney. His deep knowledge of the materials and history of the clothes he sells means that almost every item on sale has a story behind it. Rodney specialises in denim and while his store sells rare vintage and selvedge pieces he also offers denim restorations and customisation knowing that few things can top a pair of jeans which have been through it all with you.
Brett Dugmore and his team at Mr. Vinyl have been involved in all things vinyl since long before its recent return to the limelight. This means its not only a great spot to get records but also that you can get turntables repaired, advice on maintenance, and records cleaned of all but the most set in scratches. Bring that old turntable you inherited or thrifted, and after a quick evaluation they'll be able to tell you what's wrong with it and how long it will take to fix. When collecting, bring any old vinyls in to renew them at their cleaning station.
Since its inception by Candice Wyatt-Minter, Wyatt Hair has been giving the boldest cuts in Joburg all while making sure to use eco-friendly products which are kind to your hair. All their cutting, styling and colouring is done using the Vitruvian technique which to determine ideal cutting lines and colouring sections for your body and face. While candice is no longer at the helm, the team at Wyatt are still focused on upholding the Wyatt high standrds, in a salon that is still one of the most beautifully designed spaces in Joburg.
Don't leave the house in an ill-fitting shirt when you can get a custom-made shirt from Five8ths. Their exquisitely tailored shirts are made in house and they have a range of high-quality fabrics to choose from to ensure you get the perfect shirt. Whether its a casual everyday shirt or one for a special occasion Five8ths have you covered.
Land of Kin sells bespoke menswear from their store at 44 Stanley and every item purchased can be altered by James the tailor to ensure it fits just the way you want. You are also able to bring in any clothes or suits for alterations and James' sharp eye for fashion means a far more careful approach than a simple stop at Levingers.
JFF Plant Shop began in Braamfontein with a Rooftop Farm and the store in 44 Stanley allows for a more customer-focused approach. Starting an urban farm is no small task and when chatting with owner Ash and the rest of the team at JFF its easy to see why they were able to succeed. Their knowledge of the plants they grow is second-to-none and if you're struggling to keep that delicious monster you received as a gift alive they'll be only to happy to help.
The Atelier sits in the back corner of 44 and is the place to go for framing photographs and artworks. With a deep understanding of archival framing processes you can be assured that the frame is not only going to bring the best out of your picture but that it will last for many years to come. They offer great advice on a range of pricing.
Lia de Jongh and Lindy Swart's Acre Studio doubles as a store for contemporary furniture and an interior design firm. Their fastidious eye for detail and exquisite furniture make Acre Studio a great choice for home redesigns. In addition, Acre Studio offer custom lighting options for the increasingly rare occasions when we have power.
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