We’re back with our Winter Essentials guide — one thing about South Africans? We’ll act surprised every year when the cold sets in. It’s as though our sun-drenched summers give us collective amnesia, and suddenly the crisp autumn air turns into bone-chilling mornings and wind that cuts right through you. It shocks us every time, and staying dressed and chic; we must. 

Winter is one of the most exciting times for fashion: we get to layer, play with texture, and lean into those cosy silhouettes. The best part is that local brands continue to show up with pieces that are as functional as they are beautiful. In a country where terrain and climate shift from one province to the next, these pieces embrace versatility, offering trans-seasonal staples that shift with you, wherever you are.

Puff, knit, leather, wool; take your pick and stack textures with chaotic abandon. We love to see sleeves get longer, collars get higher, and layering take centre stage. In winter, your outfit is your whole attitude, and even a little delusion (we know you will wear that mesh top under a trench like it makes sense, in case the sun comes out).

Selfi Boxy Big Cuff Shirt

The oversized shirt that does it all — and then some

Celeste Arendse’s label Selfi always keeps us nourished, and this one’s for the lovers of easy tailoring and big, dramatic cuffs. Selfi’s Boxy Big Cuff Shirt takes the classic button-up and gives it a sculptural twist (as is the brand’s principle design code) with curved sleeves, a roomy boxy fit, and extra-long cuffs that are perennially theatrical. It’s made from 100% cotton, so it’s breathable, comfy and totally biodegradable. Wear it buttoned-up with tailored trousers or loose over denim; either way, it’s an essential that’ll carry you through the season (and way beyond).

Rethread Issey Knit

For the layering girlies who love options

Rethread’s Issey Knit is an update on last year’s wildly successful hit, The Saturn Knit— this time, with an update to its functionality. It comes with a removable scarf that buttons on and off, letting you wear it your way. We love the structured fit and the curve at the hip (yes, she’s flattering), and the fact that it’s made in Cape Town from 100% South African cotton. The knit itself mimics pleats, hence its namesake (Issey Miyake, the Father of Pleating). Sculptural, and endlessly remixable, this one is for the archive. 

Broke Windrunner

Protection For These Chilly Streets

Back by demand—Broke’s community-favourite Windrunner is about to be restocked. Designed with movement and mood in mind, it features elastic hems, adjustable toggles, a two-way zip, and a peach-skin finish that feels as good as it looks. Finished with a signature rubber badge, the jacket comes in black or blue and works as a lightweight layer that plays well across seasons. 

Float Apparel Frontier Jacket

Your “throw it on and have your life together” jacket

Float Apparel are masters of the utilitarian and the genderless, and their Frontier Jacket is a definite essential. This is the kind of piece that makes you feel pulled together, no matter the mood. It’s boxy in all the right ways, with a clean zip and snap overlay, a rich chocolate tone or black. Plus, the adjustable hem lets you cinch or swing. Ideal for layering; this is the jacket you’ll reach for every single chilly morning.

The Shopaholic Boat Neck Basic Long Sleeves

The underrated icon of winter layering

We didn’t expect to fall this hard for a basic, but here we are. The Shopaholic’s Boat Neck Long Sleeve Top is that rare combo of ultra-comfortable and properly sculpted — thanks to its double-lined stretch fabric and curved hemline. It hugs in the right places, comes in multiple colours (you will want more than one), and pairs well with literally anything in your wardrobe. Also, props for a detailed size guide — they really thought of everything.

Research Unit Eleven Tech Jacket

A functional piece for the futuristic minimalist

This one’s for the ones who like their fits smart and sleek. Research Unit’s Eleven Tech Jacket feels like a crossover between utility wear and something out of a sci-fi wardrobe (in the best way). The water-repellent, body-temperature adjusting fabric is kind of magical, and the adjustable waist and zippered kimono sleeves let you play with proportion. It’s equal parts professional and relaxed — ideal for city days, light rain, and the kind of wind that messes with your hair.

Long Season Hug Bomber, Silverzip Trouser & Wrap

Your cool older cousin who lives in Joburg 

The Hug Bomber does exactly what it says on the tin — it wraps you up with six (!) pockets, a built-in hood and scarf situation, and an attitude that is unmatched. Honestly, I haven’t seen anything cooler in a long time. Paired with the clean Silverzip trousers and the cargo-style wrap, this set is modular dressing at its best. You can wear them together or apart — but trust us, they’re strongest as a full look. Functional, distinctive, and totally modular — it’s giving more than we deserve. 

Tshepo Knitted Polo

The kind of knit to make you dapper

If winter were a gentleman, he’d wear this. Tshepo’s Knitted Polo is simple and elegant— with a half zip that adds a little edge and the signature red crown puller that nods to the brand’s attention to detail. Made from mercerised cotton (read: soft but structured), it works for layering or solo wear and is just dressy enough to handle dinner plans. A proper essential for stylish guys, or anyone who loves a good menswear moment. 

Socioculture Urban Creative Denim Set

Canadian Tuxedo, but actually cool 

Dark denim, raw hems, and a heavy hit of ‘90s nostalgia, this set from Socioculture is major. Designed by Naeelah Jamut, one of SA’s rising forces in streetwear, the Urban Creative denim set channels Y2K energy with a gender-sharp edge. It’s boxy, bold, and built for city movement. We love that it’s available at select Archive stores; showing corporate buy-in for local brands that is so critical for our retail landscape. 

Mi, Thata Studios Snug Hat

The knit hat for artists 

Not all beanies are created equal. Mi, Thata Studios’ Snug Hat is hand-knitted from 100% wool by Cape Town artist Keith Virgo and his crew. Soft, warm, and perfectly shaped, it adds that final touch to your winter outfit without trying too hard. Whether you’re heading to brunch or staying in, this one delivers cosy energy with steez baked in. Currently, the only one available is the black version at Duck Duck Duck Goose – but watch this space. 

Sweet Pea City Boots

The perfect minimalist boot — from Ballito, no less

We didn’t expect a coastal town to birth our new favourite winter boot, but here we are. Sweet Pea’s City Boot is sleek, ankle-height, and made from buttery leather or suede that just gets better with age. Reminiscent of The Row, the silhouette is clean and architectural with a seamless front and a low-profile sole; and you can have them made in a variety of colours. Also, Sweet Pea has a ton of other options for all your footwear needs. Local shoe brands are few and far between, so we love to see a brand growing as much as Sweet Pea is. These are handmade to order, which makes them feel even more special — a true local gem in the shoe space.

Written by: Holly Beaton

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