Cape Town recently flaunted its style as the World Design Capital in 2014 – putting us in the best spot to enjoy local fashion. South Africa’s eclectic culture is visible in our bold textiles, innovative designs, and classic cuts paired with quirky jewellery and accessories.

If you love beautiful clothing and supporting local businesses, then Cape Town will not disappoint. There are a number of stores in the city centre that stock South Africa’s finest local attire, all within walking distance from Parker Cottage.

By buying local, you invest in our home-grown talent and labour. You also take home something you won’t find in your average shopping mall, making you the envy of your friends!

AKJP Collective

If you’re taking our walking tour, this boutique will be your first stop on Kloof Street.

Owners Keith Henning and Jody Paulson wanted to create a space where local designers could gain an international market. While they feature clothes from a different designers, AKJP’s overall aesthetic is monochromatic and easy-to-wear. Think effortless shifts and shirts in black, white, or grey, occasionally punctuated with bright patterns in primary colours.

AKJP also stocks Pichulik: a line of unique Africana-inspired jewellery. These statement pieces are made from locally sourced materials, and crafted at a studio in Woodstock .

Find AKJP Collective at 73 Kloof Street, near the pedestrian crossing.

Mememe

Your next stop is Mememe on Long Street, which has been around since 2001. As such, the store has established a reputation for showcasing some of South Africa’s top designers.

Mememe stocks ready-to-wear clothes, ranging from flirty cocktail dresses to relaxed mix-and-match shirts and skirts. You’ll also find handbags, hats, accessories, and bespoke leather shoes for men and women.

They also stock Isabel de Villier’s clothing line for women of all sizes. From stylish maxi dresses to flowing jump suits, there’s something for everyone.

Find Mememe at 117A Long Street, on the corner of Long and Church or head on over to their website www.mememe.co.za.

Mungo & Jemima

While you’re at Mememe, you ought to pop into Mungo & Jemima too – it’s right across the road!

Similar to Mememe, Mungo & Jemima has been a leader in local design since 2008. You’ll find some of South Africa’s most coveted designers housed here. They cater to all age groups, with billow and button-up skirts, loose t-shirts, vintage-style dresses, and beautiful jewellery.

Find Mungo & Jemima at 108 Long Street, also on the corner of Church.

Afraid of Mice

Don’t worry – this store has nothing to do with musophobia! Though technically not a local clothing store, we’d recommend checking out this vintage clothing boutique while you’re on Long Street.

You won’t find any musty rails with moth-eaten jerseys here. Each item at Afraid of Mice is a hand-picked vintage treasure, with unique pieces by the likes of Chanel, Marc Jacobs, and Ralph Lauren. It’s a fashionista’s dream come true – need we say more?

Find Afraid of Mice at 159 Long Street, on the corner of Long and Longmarket Street, or pay a visit to their website.

Merchants on Long

Merchants on Long is a concept store dedicated to African style and design. Aside from the cushion covers, bags, and accessories, you’ll also find some locally designed clothes.

One of the must-have items at this store is the gorgeous knitwear from designer Laduma Ngxokolo. A recent winner of Vogue Italia’s Scouting for Africa competition, his work is inspired by the colours and patterns of A City is its People. You won’t find anything like this in your average chain store!

Find Merchants on Long at 34 Long Street, across the road from the MyCiti bus stop.

Is it any wonder then that Capetonians look so effortlessly chic?

The best thing about style in this city is that almost anything goes. From the ‘glam’ crowd of Camps Bay to Afropunk in the City Bowl, you’ll see many unique takes on fashion here. It’s all part of the fun of visiting a creative hub like Cape Town.