While the Midlands makes up the beautiful countryside of KwaZulu-Natal and is surrounded by farms, it might inform a particular type of dressing trend for men that is attributed to the outdoors and farming, but men don’t have to feel limited in their looks because of this. Who says you can’t dress up in the country? While it’s not one of the world’s fashion hubs, our little countryside nook of the world has a few local clothing outlets worth exploring. We popped into a few and asked the owners about what they suggested to our Midlands’ men for a dapper look.
The award-winning clothing store The Company Man’s was established 35 years ago and originally opened at the Cascades Lifestyle Centre and later relocated and traded at the Liberty Midlands Mall for around 15 years, and has now found their way back to the Cascades Lifestyle Centre. The Company Man’s foundation is based on quality products with excellent personal service. They also offer an alteration service to ensure perfectly fitted garments. The clothing ranges from formal suits to informal wear like chinos with a cotton fitted shirt and stylish jacket. Their formal suits are available from sizes 36 to 54, and they can order larger sizes if needed. A good selection of stylish knitwear and shoes is also on offer, most of the time.
A recommended must-have item for any man’s wardrobe according to The Company Man’s are their popular items; fitted cotton chinos and the stretch POLO jeans. They are available in four colours and come in a slim or regular fit. Another item that will keep you looking suave is their selection of lightweight sports jackets, which they stock throughout the year in a classic checked pattern or in plain navy or black from sizes 40 to 54.
If you’re a fan of leather items to enhance your wardrobe, then Groundcover will have you covered with genuine handcrafted leather accessories and footwear. It was founded by Justin and Amanda McCarthy in 1990 and taken over by her son and daughter-in-law, Daniel and Angela in 2022, in Curry’s Post. It was established after years of Justin and Amanda’s endeavours of selling leather goods, teaching others about the leather tanning process, and sharing and developing their artisanal craft. Groundcover is also one of the founding members of the Midlands Meander and Crafter’s Guild.
Some of the specialist footwear items for men include their stitch-down boots, which have a rustic and robust aesthetic characteristic of Groundcover. Another addition to their collection is the dress boot, made with a narrower last, but still retaining the stitch-down construction. Other leather items include sandals and slippers. Accessories include leather wallets, belts, and bags.
A must-have recommendation from Groundcover’s men’s range is their Thuli Boot, a perfect fit for function and style. It is a modern and versatile boot that can be worn for casual everyday wear or formal wear like weddings. It is available in a beautiful oily brown colour and a sophisticated black. You can visit Groundcover in-store or find what you need via their online shop.
Maybe you don’t need a sophisticated suit or an eye-catching leather belt, but something hardier to wear while still looking good. Big John, located on 40 Main Street in Howick, is a must-stop for good quality, comfortable men’s gear, ranging from socks, trousers, shirts, shoes, and more. The shop started in 1993 as a small retail outlet with only six sewing machines, and manufactured clothing for game reserves and outdoor enthusiasts, gaining a strong support system from local farmers. It has grown over the years and stocks a wide range of brands from Jockey, Falke, Cape Mohair, Karu sheepskin slippers, Wildebees clothing and footwear, and Vellies shoes and belts. Some of the recommended items include the popular Sherpa jackets, which are available in a variety of colours, chinos, and good old-fashioned T-shirts that can suit any look. You can visit the Big John store or place your orders online.
From formal suits, and genuine leather shoes to jackets and chinos, not excluding a range of accessories like cufflinks, wallets, belts and socks, you cannot go wrong by making a few selected stores your go-tos for a spruced and polished look!
Words by: Alicia du Plessis
Big John http://www.bigjohn.co.za
The Company Man’s http://The-Company-Mans-Shop
Groundcover http://www.groundcover.co.za
Photo Credit: Groundcover: Dané Turvey Photography