Johannesburg, South Africa

Shop local, shop unique: Johannesburg’s one-of-a-kind retail spots

Southern Africa • Shop • Shop local, shop unique: Johannesburg‘s one-of-a-kind retail spots

One-of-a-kind retail spots in Johannesburg

When it comes to shopping in Johannesburg, there’s a world of options far beyond the usual malls and popular shopping districts. Retail therapy is a must when visiting South Africa‘s biggest city, but in a city this big it’s easy to miss the one-of-a-kind retail spots. In this article, we’re diving into the best one-of-a-kind retail spots – the truly inspiring spaces that capture the unique essence of Johannesburg’s eclectic shopping scene.

Always Welcome

Always Welcome celebrates South African creativity with a curated collection of furniture, accessories and décor from top local designers. Here, you’ll find innovative pieces from names like Mash.T Studio, which blends African craftsmanship with contemporary aesthetics and Kino, whose designs honour the beauty of solid wood. Walking into Always Welcome feels like stepping into a modern gallery, with pieces so thoughtfully displayed that you want to recreate the whole vibe in your own space – the go-to place if you’re looking for some home design inspiration and truly unique decor and furniture pieces!

Always Welcome
17 Commerce Cres
Kramerville
Sandton
Johannesburg
South Africa

Photography courtesy of Always Welcome

Amatuli

Visit Amatuli and explore the most impressive range of African art and antique treasures from across the continent. Founder Mark Valentine has spent decades travelling across Africa to source masks, sculptures and textiles that tell stories about the continent’s rich cultural diversity. The sheer size and variety here are overwhelming in the best way possible and even the store’s walls feel alive with history. With a coffee shop on site, we love taking a moment to soak it all in before diving back into exploring. If you’re looking for authentic African artistry, Amatuli is a place you don’t want to miss.

Amatuli
6 Desmond Rd
Kramerville
Sandton
Johannesburg
South Africa

Photography courtesy of Amatuli

Viviers Studio

Viviers Studio, founded by designer Lezanne Viviers, is a contemporary fashion atelier that’s as much about art as it is about clothing. This bespoke clothing brand focuses on artistic, conceptual and earth-conscious clothing – this atelier is a must-see for anyone who sees clothing as a form of self-expression. The studio mirrors the creativity of the designs – modern, open and filled with a kaleidoscope of colours thanks to the light filtering through the colourful windows.

Viviers Studio
133 Westcliff Dr
Parktown
Johannesburg
South Africa

Photography courtesy of Viviers Studio

Mr Vinyl

If you’re a lover of music then you won’t want to miss Mr Vinyl. This unassuming spot holds one of Johannesburg’s best selections of vinyl records – you’re guaranteed to find some rare finds here. The shop has an eclectic and cosy feel, you’ll want to spend hours in here listening to your favourite records and chatting with the Mr Vinyl team that’s just as passionate about music as you are. You might get lucky and spot one of the many artists who pop in here to spin some records on the decks!

Mr Vinyl
44 Stanley Ave
Braamfontein Werf
Johannesburg
South Africa

Photography courtesy of Mr Vinyl

Tshepo Jeans

South African designer Tshepo Mohlala has built a brand that takes denim seriously – Tshepo Jeans offers custom jeans with that perfect fit that seems to be made just for you. Known as the Prince of Denim, founder Tshepo Mohlala creates denim fashion pieces that are a true reflection of South African craftsmanship and the attention to detail is unmatched. Tshepo’s iconic crown logo is a proud emblem of African heritage, woven into every piece. Visit their flagship store in Hyde Park and experience the artisans at work and add a one-of-a-kind denim piece to your fashion collection.