Local is truly lekker at Mall of Africa: Homegrown heroes we love
1. BATHU
Bathu is a proudly South African footwear brand known for its bold, colourful designs and signature mesh sneakers that celebrate local culture and street style. It was founded in 2015 by Theo Baloyi, who left his corporate job to build an authentic African sneaker brand. After 18 months of development and multiple rejections from manufacturers, he launched the Mesh Edition sneakers – starting with just 100 pairs sold from a small room in Alexandra, Joburg. It's grown exponentially, boasting 35 stores nationwide (Apr 2025).
Our pick: We love Bathu's Journey 2.0 shoes in black and white that resemble the famous Nike Dunks, but at a much better price point.
Where to find Bathu: On the top level of the Mall of Africa, shop 2201.
2. BEAUTY ON TAPP
Beauty on TApp is a South African beauty store that connects customers to a curated range of local and international skincare, haircare, and wellness products. It was founded as an e-commerce platform in 2015 by Mathebe Molise, a Joburg-born chartered accountant who transitioned from investment banking to entrepreneurship. Beauty on TApp has since evolved into a comprehensive online destination that champions homegrown brands and promotes beauty solutions tailored to African skin and hair, with a number of physical stores nationwide.
Our pick: We spotted a Lelive Body Glow Up: Mini Edition set that's perfect for your new skin-care routine or a gift for beauty enthusiasts.
Where to find Beauty on TApp: On the top level of Mall of Africa, shop 2131.
3. ERA BY DJ ZINHLE
Era by DJ Zinhle is a South African fashion accessory brand founded in 2012 by renowned DJ and entrepreneur DJ Zinhle. Initially launched with a focus on stylish timepieces, the brand has since expanded its product range. The range now includes earrings, necklaces, sunglasses, scarves, handbags, and headwear, all designed to inspire confidence and style. In 2020 the ERA Vision line was introduced, featuring bold, unisex sunglasses that embody the brand's edgy attitude and style-forward ethos.
Our pick: The sunglasses at Era were the standout for us, with frames in many shapes and sizes for plenty of accessory-styling potential.
Where to find Era by DJ Zinhle: On the bottom level of Mall of Africa, shop 1205.
4. GALXBOY
GALXBOY is a South African streetwear brand founded in 2008 by Thatiso Dube, also known as Vuittots. Rooted in the rebellious youth culture of Mzansi, the brand offers bold, contemporary designs that reflect a 21st-century African aesthetic that's both innovative and affordable. GALXBOY has grown into a cultural movement, resonating with Millennials and the Gen Z crowd through a celebration of African identity and street culture.
Our pick: The embossed dome bag in black is the perfect companion for a night out; sturdy and generous in size without being clunky. The bag also comes in green, beige, red, and blue.
Where to find GALXBOY: On the bottom level of Mall of Africa, shop 1049.
5. MAXHOSA AFRICA
Maxhosa Africa is what happens when tradition gets a glow-up and struts down the runway. Created by Laduma Ngxokolo, this South African knitwear brand turns Xhosa beadwork patterns into luxe fashion statements that scream heritage with a side of haute. It’s bold, it's rich, it’s unapologetically African.
Our pick: This cardigan has our heart; a super addition for the cooler months, and effortlessly stylish.
Where to find Maxhosa Africa: On the top level of Mall of Africa, shop 2035.
SOOK concept store
Sompire and Sompire Kids occupy the ever-evolving SOOK space until Apr 30, 2025. This flexible, digitally powered platform showcases fresh brands, merging retail with experiential creativity. Somizi Mhlongo launched his children's clothing brand in 2023 with the motto "Brave Enough To Be Yourself" – offering stylish and comfortable apparel for kids aged two to 12. The brand gained international attention when it unexpectedly debuted at New York Fashion Week in 2025. To deepen his fashion expertise, Mhlongo studied formally at the Villioti Fashion Institute. The Sompire empire now caters to grown-ups and little ones alike.
To find out what's coming to this pop-up space next, follow @sookmallofafrica on Instagram.
Our pick: Stylish without breaking the bank, kids will love these kicks from Sompire Kids' first ever range.
Where to find SOOK: On the top level of Mall of Africa, shop 2117.
International high-flyers: Luxury fashion and cosmetics
1. BOSS
For the fashion-forward shoppers seeking luxury apparel, accessories, and footwear, look no further than BOSS. Known for its sophisticated, sleek designs and timeless style, this is your go-to for modern elegance and high-quality craftsmanship.
Our pick: We spotted a water-repellent jacket in a soft blue cloud print that's lightweight but super warm. A great layering piece that's elegant yet fresh.
Where to find BOSS: On the top level of Mall of Africa, shop 2169.
2. DIESEL
Diesel is that rebellious friend in your wardrobe who refuses to play by the rules – bold, edgy, and unapologetically cool. The brand is renowned for its innovative approach to casual wear, especially denim, and is celebrated for pushing fashion boundaries and appealing to those who want to stand out with a confident, youthful vibe.
Our pick: While we're fans of the clothing, our eyes went straight to the Hissu Evo Johnny Wallet – a sleek black cardholder crafted from grained leather. This slim accessory holds six cards and has an additional slot in the middle. The wallet is detailed with embossed branding on one side, and a silver logo plaque on the other.
Where to find Diesel: On the top level of Mall of Africa, shop 2162.
4. KIEHL'S
Kiehl’s is a renowned skincare brand known for its blend of natural ingredients and scientific innovation, delivering high-quality products that cater to various skin types and concerns. With a heritage rooted in apothecary traditions, Kiehl’s offers everything from hydrating moisturisers and effective serums to gentle cleansers and protective sunscreens. In South Africa, Kiehl’s products are available at Edgars Beauty stores, making it easy for beauty enthusiasts to access their favourite trusted, dermatologist-approved skincare essentials.
Our pick: It's back to basics with this acne-clearing spot treatment that helps heal breakouts by creating a breathable seal.
Where to find Kiehl's: Inside Edgars Beauty on the top level of Mall of Africa, shop 2085.
5. SKIN COSMETICS
Skin Cosmetics is a luxury beauty destination where experience lies at the heart of every interaction. Each boutique invites customers into a carefully curated world of high-end skincare, personal and home care products, and refined fragrances. This store is a sensory delight, with the elegant aromas of perfumes from prestigious houses such as Parfums de Marly and Maison Crivelli to welcome you.
Our pick: If you've ever smelled one of Diptyque's candles, you'll understand why they're so popular. These scented candles elevate your space and are designed to be decorative pieces in their own right. The fragrance options are endless: lys, eucalyptus, oud, and plenty more.
Where to find Skin Cosmetics: On the top level of Mall of Africa, shop 2004.
6. SUPERDRY
Superdry is a contemporary British fashion brand known for its fusion of vintage Americana styling, Japanese-inspired graphics, and British tailoring. Established in 2003, the brand quickly gained global popularity for its high-quality fabrics, distinctive logo designs, and attention to detail. Superdry offers a wide range of products, including casualwear, outerwear, accessories, and athleisure, appealing to a youthful, style-conscious audience.
Our pick: We'd happily walk out with one of these bomber jackets, particularly the Suikajan embroidered bomber with its relaxed fit. It features long raglan sleeves, a zip-up front, and ribbed collar, cuffs, and hem with bold contrasting stripes. With two side pockets, one internal pocket, and a full lining, it's as practical as it is comfortable.
Store location: On the top level of Mall of Africa, shop 2230.
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