shopping
Jozi’s hidden SHOPPING GEMS Quirky stores you need to check out
Are you a seasoned shopper in the City of Gold in search of some hot new shopping spots? Say no more, as these stores are the absolute best if you’re looking for a different, more unconventional shopping experience. Located at the trendy 44 Stanley, Bonsai Studio offers visitors a one-of-a-kind shopping experience. From Japanese steel bonsai tools, bonsai accessories and plant elixirs to grow-your-own mushroom kits, the store has everything you need to create your very own city garden. There are, of course, a number of bonsais on sale, as well as the option of potting and pruning services. The store also stocks several locally produced, high-quality items including silk scarves, Egyptian cotton kimonos and novelty products like handmade gardeners’ soap, loose leaf teas and skincare products. So, whether you want to get yourself a new green companion or just want to find a spot for a fabulous Instagram, Bonsai Studio is definitely one to visit. PS: They also host bonsai growing lessons on Saturday mornings. 44 Stanley, Braamfontein Werf K www.bonsaistudio.co.za E @44stanley Q @44_stanleyavenue
The Secret Room This Bryanston based boutique is chockfull of designer goods – from Chanel to Gucci – and is every fashionista’s dream. The products on sale are handpicked from the fashion capitals of the world and are built around owner Emma van Dooren’s experiences in textile design, retail buying and interior design. Wonderful touches like the fresh blooms and quirky interior pieces further prove that The Secret Room is not your run-of-the-mill clothing boutique and is the ultimate place to go if you want to treat yourself to a lovely designer piece.
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Riverside Shopping Centre, corner of Bryanston Drive & River Road, Bryanston K www.thesecretroom.co.za E @thesecretroom Hello Joburg • February 2020 • www.hellojoburg.co.za
Love Books
As one of the last remaining independent bookstores in Jozi, Love Books is reviving the idea of bookstores not just by being a place to shop, but a place to relax, socialise and learn. They offer a curated range of books for children and adults and the knowledgeable staff will ensure that you walk out with the perfect read. Love Books was founded in 2009 by Jaci Jenkins and Kate Rogan and often hosts books clubs, storytelling sessions and book launches, including the launch of Zapiro’s latest annual, Which Side is Up? Other than books, the store also sells handmade cards, unique journals and international magazines plus a selection of wines from Joostenberg wine farm in Stellenbosch. Wine and books – what could possibly be better than that? Trust us ... Love Books is charming, colourful and a place you just won’t want to leave! 53 Rustenberg Road, Melville K www.lovebooks.co.za E @lovebooksjozi D @lovebooksjozi Q @lovebooksjozi
Deer Design
Deer Design at The Zone is a novelty gift and home décor store with oodles of personality. With gorgeous navy-blue paint, raw wood accents and their statement deer design stencilled onto the walls, this store truly embodies the idea of the experience economy. Although it’s supergorgeous, Deer Design definitely has substance to back their style and stocks only South African made handmade products, which include bags with fun prints, leather backpacks, clothing and even children’s plush toys. The brand, which was founded in 2017, has a strong focus on community upliftment and represents many different SA designers. Shop GF21B The Zone, 177 Oxford Road, Rosebank K www.deerdesign.co.za E @deerdesignsa Q @deerdesignsa
Words Amber Richardson Images Supplied
Bonsai Studio
