Cape Town - I’m not a fashion follower, but I can appreciate true style.
A sweet girl once told me that I see sophistication in simple style.
And that’s what Maison Mara is - a little boutique in Cape Town, that oozes style.
Owned by Kelly Withey, Maison Mara is a gem tucked away in a little side street in De Waterkant. Until recently, I had never even heard of it. So when I was invited to the boutique’s latest showing, my curiosity was piqued.
The boutique is made up of three floors, filled to the brim with statement pieces, from Jill Sanders to Kenzo. And they don’t come cheap. These are designs that you won’t find in your ordinary department store - they’re pieces for the well-heeled and those that spend a fortune on clothing.
But they’re also investment pieces, the type of clothes that you leave in your will to your daughters.
Just back from a recent trip abroad, Withey introduced us to the latest additions to her range. Her eyes lit up when showing us a little black dress with peplum detail by Balenciaga, evidence of her passion for eclectic stylish designs.
And therein lies the success of Maison Mara. It’s not just a clothing boutique, it’s a lifestyle brand that offers women a choice by not boxing them into certain compartments or making them slaves to fashion.
Obviously there are pieces that are bang on trend like eighties-inspired prints, but the majority of the designs are timeless classics.
Their pieces appeal to women from all generations, and that’s why I think Withey and her boutique have staying power. Even if you don’t have the cash to splash, Maison Mara is worth the visit.
More info: http://www.maisonmara.co.za/
Marchelle Abrahams, IOL