Superbalist's Summer Hit List

By Buntu Ngcuka | Images: Supplied

It's just around the corner. The time of the year when the sun's out and so are the guns, legs, pets, drinks, braai stands and most importantly (or stressfully), spending your time and money responsibly. To help make both easier this summer, we've put together a hit list of everything you should be wearing, eating, drinking and listening to, and every hot spot in your city.

What to wear up top

The striped button-up shirt is this summer's go-to. Don't believe us? Check your favourite influencer's Instagram and check what he's wearing to the Bungalow in Clifton, the Fourways Farmer's Market or anywhere around Durban.

The sneakers you can rock everywhere

You won't be led astray with a pair of Stan Smiths. Sure, they're sneakers but you can wear them to everything you'll be invited to (or crashing) this summer. From weddings and family dinners to pop-ins at your favourite drinking hole to spontaneous braais. Just keep them clean – we've got you covered on that front too.

The 4 most-packed places to show them off

● Feelgoodseries: Nothing says "summer in Mzansi" like a city rooftop party. If you're in Jo'burg be sure to check out this celebration of melanin, good vibes and even better music, hosted by Nandi Dlepu. There's a mix of DJ sets and live performances, so you won't be leaving the dancefloor either.

● Living Room: Visit the Maboneng hot spot for their Saturday and Sunday events. The leafy decor and hanging lights, screams "millennial", but it's great for grown-up sundowners and dinners during the week too.

● Eyadini Lounge: Who can say no to gqom and platters of braai meat if you're in Durban.

● Yourstruly: Get your morning coffee fix at the one on Long Street, have drinks at the Kloof Street spot or enjoy lunch at their newly-opened restaurant Today and Tomorrow, a few steps down the road, or visit the more intimate Loop Street shop.

The DJ whose set will make your whole month

December is peak touring time for DJs and Black Coffee is no exception. He's playing a number of gigs around the country: including a huge homecoming as part of his Come With Me Tour in Pretoria and a weekly residency at Shimmy Beach Club.

The beyond-picture-perfect beach that isn't crowded

There's no beating Cape Town's 4 Cliftons, but there are other hidden gems around the Mother City if you're looking for someplace new. Bakoven Beach is small and secluded, and the view of Lion's Head is unmatched and definitely 'Gram-worthy.

Where to grab a drink

● Chinchilla Rooftop Cafe + Bar: With great cocktails, amazing food and the best selection of scatter cushions you've ever seen, this Camps Bay spot is a must.

● Blue Waters Cafe: Port Elizabeth isn't short of seaside restaurants, but one to definitely try out if you ever find yourself in the Friendly CIty is this spot with quite the impressive wine list.

● Skye Bar: Enjoy sundowners with an amazing panoramic view of Jo'burg at this upmarket Sandton establishment. It's got a relaxed ambience, so it's great for date nights or a lowkey catchup session with friends.

What music to have on repeat

● Amerigo Gazaway's mashups: The American producer and DJ's taste in music is wide and varied, and his mashup mixes on YouTube prove just that. Put one on when you've got some visitors.

● Anatii's new album: Although it dropped in October, the rapper's album, IYEZA, combines hip-hop and mbaqanga in a way no one saw coming. Make sure it's on heavy rotation and support local.

● Yes Lawd! by NxWorries: If you attended Afropunk last year, you probably saw Anderson .Paak on stage. His stage presence is electric and his raspy voice sounds even better on the now-signature super short beats by producer Knxwledge. The duo's offering is perfect driving music.

● For Ever by Jungle: Want to play something while you're on the road? The new album by Jungle has all the tropical house and airy vocals ideal for making summer memories.