Whether you’re a thrifter, collector, or designer-label enthusiast, you can be sure that somewhere in Joburg there is something new for you. Every month we scout out shopping hot spots, pop-ups, and the latest labels that may not yet be on your radar… 

From knitwear charm to fashion fame: Oddity's Jessica-Ann Shepherd wins Mr Price New Talent Search Competition
 

Mr Price New Talent Search Competition 2024 winner Jessica-Ann Shepherd of Oddity at SA Fashion Week S/S 2024. Photo: SA Fashion Week via Instagram.

Heritage meets high fashion: Thebe Magugu's latest collection celebrates South African icons and traditions


Fashion designer Thebe Magugu recently launched his third Heritage capsule collection titled Lobola Negotiations, which showcases 18 of South Africa's most prominent figures, including Professor Thuli Madonsela (former public protector) and Dr John Kani (legendary theatre actor). These individuals have made significant contributions to their respective fields. The new collection is inspired by the tradition of lobola, a customary practice in which the groom's family presents a gift (traditionally cattle, nowadays money) to the bride's family in exchange for her hand in marriage. This practice is not about ownership, but rather a symbolic gesture that has evolved. The collection is now available for pre-order on the Thebe Magugu website.

Blu Betty takes their shoes to new heights

The Tatum, Ty, and Harv shoes (left to right) from Blu Betty. Photo: Supplied.

Durban brand  Blu Betty is taking winter to new heights by adding a chunky sole to some of their beloved shoes, including a relaunch of the Harv brogues, giving them a dynamic new edge, as well as new boots like the Tatum and Ty. You can order these online  or, even better, visit their new Joburg store in Parkhurst.

Crafting creativity: KAMERS/Makers returns to Joburg

Get ready Joburg for the ultimate artisanal extravaganza.  KAMERS/Makers  is back and better than ever. From Wed, May 1 – Sun, May 5 , St David’s Marist in Inanda transforms into a bustle of creativity, hosting more than 160 of South Africa's most talented artisanal small businesses, designers, and makers. Whether you're on the hunt for unique fashion finds, stunning jewellery, gourmet goodies, stylish homeware, or adorable kids' items, this pop-up retail experience always has something for everyone. KAMERS/Makers is also a wonderful way to support South African businesses and ensure money circulates in the local creative economy.

Artisanal delights at The Gift Gallery

Trinkets and art to take home from The Gift Gallery. Photo: Supplied.

The Gift Gallery is a vibrant new addition to 44 Stanley . This unique store is a creative collaboration between sustainable luxury brand  WhatWeCherish and Path Nomad , making it a great stop for art and design enthusiasts. Path Nomad's gallery is a dynamic hub for art exhibitions and events, while WhatWeCherish highlights talented African artisans, celebrating their distinctive creations and sharing their inspiring stories. At The Gift Gallery, you'll discover a petite, but captivating, museum-gallery shop filled with artisanal bags, exquisite jewellery, and home décor. Each piece is sourced locally or from across the continent. 

Wrap yourself in style with Sari for Change's new Imanii puffer

Sari for Change is a conscious fashion brand dedicated to empowering women, from the makers to the wearers, through the upcycling of gently worn saris and textiles from the African continent and diaspora to create stylish kaftans, elegant kimonos, and comfortable drawstring pants. They are continuing to make waves with their latest offering, the Imanii Puffer , now available at Big Blue stores nationwide. The puffer is a reversible jacket crafted from these unique fabrics, each piece celebrating individual identity while championing shared textile heritage.

From winter blues to sizzling heat: Black Coffee and Rich Mnisi's latest A/W collections

BLACK COFFEE A/W 2024
Striking coats in Black Coffee's A/W 2024 collection. Photo: Black Coffee via Instagram.
Black Coffee 's latest A/W collection effortlessly weaves a tapestry of inspirations, drawing from the intricate patterns of 18th-century frescoes, the bold strokes of Hokusai's block prints, and the artful mending techniques of Sashiko. Discarding the whims of trend-driven seasonality, the collection embraces being a collector's item, seamlessly transitioning from one season to the next. Each piece undergoes a fascinating process of deconstruction and reconstruction, reflecting the brand's commitment to crafting wearable art. You can buy pieces from the collection online .

RICH MNISI A/W 2024
  The Earth Argyle Trench Coat from Rich Mnisi's A/W 2024. Photo: Rich Mnisi via Instagram.

We previously mentioned (read our March Shopping Blog) that Rich Mnisi's A/W 2024 collection was showcased at Palais Brongniart in Paris. The collection called Mihloti, meaning 'tears' in Xitsonga, journeys through a spectrum of emotions tears represent, from joy and anguish to vulnerability and acceptance. It features meticulously tailored suits that echo corporate attire, juxtaposed with whimsical patterns and exaggerated silhouettes that are sure to turn heads. And the best part? Some of these pieces are already available for purchase, including the Earth Argyle trench coat. More pieces are on the way to shop.richmnisi.com.