Southern Africa • Shop • The 5 leading fashion stores and boutiques in Cape Town
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Budism Couture is a hidden gem in Cape Town that feels more like a creative sanctuary than a typical clothing store. Founded by Budi Adji and Philipp Althof, this boutique is renowned for its exquisite, hand-embroidered gowns and daywear couture. Each piece is a testament to the highest level of artisanship and luxury, tailored exclusively for each client. The store’s interior, featuring muted tones and clean lines, perfectly complements its unique clothing range, which spans everything from statement dresses to refined basics. If you are looking to add a one-of-a-kind statement piece to your wardrobe, Budism Couture is a must-visit.
Photography courtesy of Budism Couture
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Bastille is part of the Maison Mara family, offering a curated selection of high-end fashion brands. This boutique is a go-to destination for ready-to-wear, sneakers, accessories and cosmetics. Bastille prides itself on bringing the latest international trends to Cape Town, with brands like Veja, Comme Des Garcons and A.P.C. adorning its shelves. Known for its effortlessly cool and wearable fashion, this boutique is a magnet for those who appreciate understated elegance with a twist. The store’s chic, minimalist interior provides a perfect backdrop for a relaxed shopping experience. Bastille is a must-visit for fashion-forward individuals looking to elevate their wardrobe with unique, high-quality pieces.
Photography courtesy of Bastille
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Madison Boutique is a luxury women’s clothing store that celebrates both international and local design. Madison Boutique has a knack for mixing classic styles with modern trends, offering everything from sleek evening wear to chic casual outfits that work from day to night. This boutique offers a diverse range of brands, including Le Temps Des Cerises, Yaya and Karien Belle. The store is bright, airy and beautifully laid out with a laid-back yet luxurious vibe. What we like about Madison Boutique is the added personalised service, like their in-store styling services, the attention to detail is unmatched.
Photography courtesy of Madison Boutique
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If you are looking to invest in timeless, luxurious fashion, Kat van Duinen is a must-visit. Kat van Duinen’s designs are unapologetically sophisticated, with a touch of edginess that sets them apart from typical luxury brands. Founded in 2010, this boutique specialises in exotic leather goods and high-end fashion. Each piece is crafted from the world’s most precious materials, like exotic leather, silk and cashmere, showcasing impeccable tailoring and intricate hand-beading. The boutique’s interior reflects the brand’s ethos – clean, modern and imbued with subtle African influences, creating a perfect backdrop for its striking collections.
Photography courtesy of Kat van Duinen
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Merchants on Long is a concept store that celebrates the best of what the African continent has to offer, featuring both emerging and established brands. Opened in 2010, Merchants on Long has become an international platform for brands like Maxhosa Africa, Sindiso Khumalo and Rich Mnisi. Every item sold here has a story, often handmade by artisans from across the continent, blending traditional techniques with modern aesthetics. Merchants on Long features a curated selection of clothing, accessories and jewellery from designers who emphasise sustainable and ethical practices. Shopping here is an immersive experience, filled with rich textures, vibrant patterns and a sense of discovery at every turn. If you’re seeking to take a piece of African luxury home, Merchants on Long is a must-visit.
Photography courtesy of Merchants on Long
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