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…
Tshepo Jeans opens at Sandton City
Tshepo Mohlala outside the new Tshepo Jeans pop-up in Sandton City. Photo: Tshepo Mohlala via Instagram.
Elevate your denim game as Tshepo Jeans' pop-up store opens at Sandton City Mall for the next six months, right next to G-Star and across from Diesel. Discover Tshepo Mohlala’s renowned creations, including the slick Presidential Slim Fit jeans, cool denim dungarees, and sharp shirts, all stamped with that unmistakable crown logo. While you are at it make sure to bag a fresh We, The People tee, the range inspired by the powerful preamble to the South African Consitution. Tshepo Jeans has also just unveiled the second edition of the black and white T-shirt range that embraces South Africa's 12 official languages, including Sign Language, to celebrate the strength of South African diversity.
South African Fashion Week at Melrose Arch
Fashion label Sun Goddess at SAFW. Photo: SAFW
South African Fashion Week (SAFW) is strutting into a brand-new era from Thu, Sep 26 – Sat, Sep 28 with Autumn/Winter ‘25 collections taking centre stage at Melrose Arch Precinct. This season, SAFW is shaking things up with a dynamic new format featuring runway shows. Highlights include the opening show by Cruz Collective, celebrating 20 years at SAFW, and the Mr Price Scouting Menswear show, marking Mr Price’s final season at SAFW. Expect this unique, never-before-used space to be complemented by all sorts of activations throughout the precinct. Tickets will be available soon.
Swap, mend, and trend: Twyg’s Slow Fashion Festival back in Joburg
Mending sessions from Twyg last Slow Fashion Fest at 44 Stanley. Photo: Twyg Mag via Instagram.
Twyg’s Slow Fashion Festival returns to Joburg on Sat, Sep 14. 44 Stanley transforms into a hub of eco-chic with a line-up that includes a 'swap and mend' with Twyg, inspiring talks, and a screening of Patagonia’sThe Shitthropoceneat The Bioscope. Plus, dive into hands-on workshops and mending sessions throughout the day. Mark your calendars and stay tuned for the full programme and ticket details, dropping on Mon, Sep 2.
Pop, fizz, and art at Victoria Yards’ First Sunday
First Sunday at Vic Yards. Photo: Supplied.
Always a treat at the start of the month, First Sunday at Victoria Yards invites you to explore urban gardens, maker spaces, and artist studios. This September’s edition, on Sun, 1 Sep, features a sparkling wine tasting with top Méthode Cap Classiquesand Prosecco (if you prefer), along with charcuterie at Curado inside Fama Delicatessen. There'll also be a panel discussion on Io Makandal’s Ophidian’s Promise installation at Victoria Yards. Tickets for sparkling wine tastings are R120 per adult, available on the day.
Uncover vintage gems at Brooklyn and Nelson Mandela Square Antique Fairs
Time travelling shopping at Nelson Mandela Square Antiques Fair. Photo: Antiques Collecting via Facebook.
Discover unique items like jewellery, accessories, ceramics, home decor, and more in worlds of treasures at the Brooklyn and Nelson Mandela Square antique fairs. The Brooklyn Antique Fair is held at Brooklyn Mall on the first Saturday of each month. For vintage treasures closer to home, you can head to its sister event, the Nelson Mandela Square Antique Fair, held on the first Sunday of every month at Nelson Mandela Square. Both fairs have a wide variety of special items that are sure to catch your eye.
Decorex 2024
With over 100 events under their belt and countless businesses launched, this year’s Decorex Joburg extravaganza from Thu, Aug 1 – Sun, Aug 4 was filled with creative and innovative designs. Here are a couple of the labels and design studios that caught our attention:
Ananta Design Studio standout beaded lighting including the Maata Pita Table Lamps (bottom). Photo: Ananta Design via Instagram.
Their pineapple-inspired bar cart as well as their beaded pieces caught our eye while exploring the 100% Design floor at this year's Decorex. Founded by the dynamic sister team, Viveka and Rucita Vassen during the 2020 lockdown, Ananta Design Studio is illuminating the design world with their boundless creativity. True to its name, which means “endless” in Sanskrit, their studio blendsCape Town craftsmanship with Indian and South African heritage. The star of their collection? The Maata Pita Table Lamps – a delightful fusion of traditional techniques and 'Fun-ctional' art. In collaboration with Monkeybiz, a non-profit dedicated to reviving African beadwork and empowering women in Khayelitsha, Ananta Design Studio transforms recycled rubbish bags and beads into eye-catching design statements. It’s not just about lighting up your space; it’s about celebrating community and culture with every piece.
Bhonthisi Design at Decorex Joburg 2024. Photo: Decorex Africa via Instagram.
Mats, pot plant covers, and lamps in the softest felt and pastel hues might look like they’ve come straight out of a chic décor magazine, but they’re made from recycled plastic. Natasha Carstens Kruger and Chris Carstens, the creative duo behind Bhonthisi Design, are redefining art with a purpose. Their Blooming Collection at Decorex featured handwoven lamps crafted from 100% recycled rPET felt. Inspired by the isiZulu word for "bean" symbolising growth and abundance, Bhonthisi merges contemporary design with sustainability.
Step into summer with Nardstar* and Ipanema collab
Just in time for the warmer weather, Cape Town’s street art sensation, Nardstar*, is making waves with her latest collaboration. She’s teamed up with the renowned footwear brand Ipanema for a collection that’s as vibrant as it is innovative. Launching this September, theIpanema Graffiticollection is a global tribute to women in street art, blending Brazil’s rich heritage with Africa’s dynamic flair. Expect bold, eye-catching designs from South Africa, as well as from artists across Chile, Colombia, and Guadalupe. This collection isn’t just about shoes; it’s a celebration of creativity and culture. Keep an eye out for these striking designs in South African stores or explore them online later this month.
Luxury shopping complex LXX Sandhurst now open
LXX Sandhurst is a swanky new shopping paradise, brought to you by The Cavaleros Group, which opened on Thu, 25 Jul at 70 Rivonia Road – hence the snazzy Roman numerals LXX (meaning 70). This glamorous playground invites you to bask in the elegance of Tashas LXX, indulge your sweet tooth with Dough & Co’s mouthwatering pastries and coffee, or chill out with a scoop from the Baglios ice-cream kiosk. And let’s not forget the upgraded Checkers for your everyday essentials, as well as Toast & Co from Craighall and Birdhaven, making it the new go-to spot for all things fabulous.
Woolies Youth Makers Initiative
The Woolies Youth Makers Initiative is all about spotlighting young, local entrepreneurs and their creations. It gives rising stars a platform to showcase their products, get mentorship, and sell through Woolworths, helping them grow and shine in the market. It’s Woolworths’ way of supporting the next generation of SA talent. Here are some of the winning labels that we loved:
Berry Homeware scented products. Photo: Berry Homeware via Instagram.
Launching a homeware and lifestyle brand in the midst of a pandemic? It’s not the usual move, but for siblings Neo and Katleho Dulaze it was the perfect moment to introduce Berry Homeware. Named after their home on Blueberry Road, this brand delivers style and fragrance with a unique twist. Their soy candles, particularly the popular Golden Hour scent (with its baked orange and rich, spicy, warm notes), capture the essence of an African sunset. From diffusers and room mists to chic home accessories like aprons and tea towels, you’ll be too proud to get dirty. With plans to expand into home décor, accessories, and eventually furniture, the Dulaze siblings are only just getting started. You can buy their products online here.
Isa B Jewellery Designs safety pin earrings. Photo: Isa B Jewellery Designs via Instagram.
Jewellery inspired by safety pins? Isabel Bothma, a talented designer with a National Diploma in Jewellery Design and Manufacturing from Tshwane University of Technology (TUT), is turning heads with her innovative flair. In 2019, she left the commercial route behind to dive into contemporary jewellery design, letting her creativity shine. Her label, Isa B Jewellery Designs, has soared to become one of the top three best-selling names at the Jewellery Village in Montecasino. Bothma's pieces blend fine craftsmanship with a bold, modern twist, making her a standout in the world of custom jewellery.
Tendalo Trading Bags display ay the Woolworths Youth Makers pop-up in Sandton City. Photo: Tendalo Trading via Instagram.
You’d never guess that Tendalo Trading bags are made from old rubber tyres, but that’s exactly the case. Xolile Mabuza, founder of Tendalo Trading and hailing from the village of Msogwaba near Mbombela, Mpumalanga, turned an unexpected find into a thriving craft business in 2019. When she discovered discarded rubber car tubes in her neighbourhood, she saw potential where others saw waste. Driven by her passion for upcycling, Mabuza began transforming these rubber tubes into stylish, eco-friendly, durable, and waterproof bags and accessories. What began as a therapeutic hobby during a challenging period with her health has blossomed into a creative and sustainable venture that beautifully marries craft with conscience.
