Is Mall of Africa becoming Joburg’s new fashion capital?

While Sandton City has long held the crown for luxury, Midrand’s giant is making a serious play for the throne. Mall of Africa is shedding its 'big-box' reputation for something far more curated.

From global debuts to local success stories, here is why your next shopping spree might happen in Midrand.

The heavy hitters

The biggest news is the arrival of Kate Spade New York, marking the brand’s first-ever physical store in South Africa. If you’ve been eyeing their playful prints from afar, you can finally ditch the international shipping fees.

Joining the luxury line-up is a sleek new Coach boutique, one of only a few in the province, stocked with the iconic Tabby and Rogue collections. Meanwhile, Emporio Armani has tripled down on its presence with a massive new space inspired by its Milan flagship, and Lacoste has unveiled a "future-facing" flagship in the Crystal Court, the first of its kind in the country.

Local gems and lifestyle

It’s not all international labels. The mall is proving to be a launchpad for local talent:

• Silki Skincare: What started as a pop-up is now a permanent sanctuary for skin tech and consultations.
• Old School: The brothers-led brand brings a dose of retro-sport nostalgia that feels perfectly timed for Joburg’s current obsession with vintage streetwear.
• The North Face: One of only two official stores in SA, making this a mandatory stop for the Drakensberg-bound crowd.

Fuel for the trip

No Time Out-approved trip is complete without food. Pantry by Marble has landed with a pop-up concept. It’s the ultimate "high-low" experience: elevated, chef-driven snacks (think those famous croissants and coffee) designed for shoppers who are too busy for a sit-down meal but too refined for standard food-court fare.

Also read: The 14 best shopping malls in Johannesburg

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