The word “aesthetic” has become a buzzword, but what does it mean, exactly?
Whether a plate of strategically-arranged macaroons heavily filtered with VSCOcam for that ‘Insta-worthy’ shot or an all-white outfit to achieve the perfect minimalist look, the word “aesthetic” has come to represent one’s signature style of clothing, décor and even music. Finding an aesthetic is a monumental task, as people must communicate their passions and even their professions, by sight only. Luckily, Cape Town is the perfect place to discover one’s uniqueness, especially for those whose taste borders on the unconventional.
The Mother City (Cape Town’s more common name) offers a wide array of markets which are a great alternative to shopping at malls as they offer a unique shopping experience tailored to your individual taste. Your first stop can be The Social Market at The Claremont in Claremont which is usually hosted on the last Sunday of the month. This market is more than just a shopping opportunity; described as the “perfect place for hipsters, fashionistas and art lovers,” the venue provides a wide range of personalities and craft stalls stocked with exclusive products. Best of all is that this market is free–you do not have to break the bank on your quest of self-discovery.
If your taste tends to lean towards anything homemade and from the heart, why not show your support at the Longbeach Community Art Fair? Held every two months at the Longbeach Mall, the main traders are young artists and pensioners who are trying to make ends meet. It is the perfect market to give back to the community: you’ll be supporting local talent and you can find a wide variety of products to satisfy your taste for the inimitable. The art fair is occupied by a wide array of crafters–from calligraphy artists to planters selling succulents–so you are rest assured to find something which will make a statement about you as an individual.
If you’re looking for a way to spend your Friday night but club-hopping in Longstreet is not exactly your scene, head on over to Muzeinburg where you will find the Blue Bird Garage Food and Goods Market.
Made to cater to all kinds of people, this market boasts of combining various traders from cooks to apparel designers all under one roof. With musicians offering live music sessions, creative juices are guaranteed to be flowing every Friday night, providing you with the ideal environment to explore your distinct taste in food, clothing or art. A night filled with music, food, drink and retail therapy, what more could you want? Visiting Blue Bird is essentially hitting two birds with one stone: you get to have a night out and the opportunity to develop your aesthetic from all the shopping you will be able to do!
Whatever your taste; vintage, classic, minimalist or even unknown, the Mother City will nurture you and you will feel right at home. All you need to do is allow her to embrace you in her arms made of creative energy radiating from her markets!
