WHAT’S GOOD

Words: Lelo Meslani | Images: Instagram

Summer looks a little bit different for 2020, because… pandemic (in case you forgot, because you’re over it). Although this might have stopped your bag for a minute, it shouldn’t deter you from looking fly, even if you’re a City Boy or a laid-back gent during summer. In the wise words of groovists from all corners of the country – ungaz’ncishi. This pocketbook is a guide to all the wardrobe essentials you need, places and events to be on the lookout for and the right tunes to bump for a chill session at home or a road trip to any destination, when holiday season hits.

Co-ords

LeBron James really did a number when he was seen rocking matching shorts and a short-sleeved shirt. This is what co-cording is. For the past few summer seasons, this has become a fashion go-to. With many local designers having matching sets you can wear from GoodGoodGood to Thebe Magugu and Rich Mnisi, this is a wardrobe must-have.

Bowling shirts

Boxy, silky, campy collars and fun graphic prints will make you want to start your own bowling team. Maybe it would be a great idea for a date as well? Either way, dressing it worn open with something or nothing underneath or ultra-louche is something worth nothing.

Extra-extra-orthopaedic sandals

The heavier the soles, the closer you are to the fashion gawds. Strapped-up sandals can also be worn with socks and will take you from day to night swiftly.

90s-style cargo trousers

Enter a touch of the utilitarian trend. Cargo pants – with drawstrings ties for a more cinched waist, loosely flowing with big pockets or oversized – can still rock for the summer, if you pull them off well and make them your own.

The more pockets, the better

They might not even serve for the function for which they’re made, but the statement is bold enough to show your daring side. In pastel or earthy tones, outerwear items with many pockets that turn your look into a chic-safari bae (who doesn’t necessarily ever camp) are always fitting.

This summer, things seemed to have been taken up a notch, since we’ve been cooped up at home for most of the year. As a cultural curator, my eyes have been set on events and places to check out – especially event organisers who host well-curated events. Here are some of my favourite places and things to do this summer.

Queer events

From Vogue Nights Jozi and Le Grand Ball to Pussy Party and Same Sex Saturday, these culturally shifting places aim to reclaim spaces and place queer and femme safety at the forefront. Follow them and keep an eye out on what they have to offer for the summer.

Where the fresh people are

Joburg-based Until Until will be expanding Sunday Roast, aka The Happiest Place on Earth, to Cape Town and Durban, while offering other events such as Pyjama Party, 30 Degrees and Big Braai in these cities as well – with their Explorers bundles.

Homecoming Events based in Cap City, Pretoria, launched its Breakfast Club brunch event where mimosas, a delicious breakfast and good music come together to unite the community of Tshwanefontein in an intimate, open setting.

Feel Good Series showcases eclectic artistry and feel-good music in the sunshine with the friendliest faces. With a new pop up at 44 Stanley, Johannesburg, the perfectly curated space brings together the coolest people in one space.

Heavy Rotation mixes youth culture, design and music in one space to provide a unique experience with the hottest DJ lineups.

Primetime CPT puts together the most diverse crowd in Cape Town and shines a spotlight on upcoming and established DJs.