#7: Tandaza Simama & Kamogelo Koapeng (Thriftplek)

This week we are joined by our Jozi duo, Tandaza & Kamogelo, who share some fresh local recs involving Thriftplek, Bree Halal foods, Organic Soap Barn, and more.

Tandaza Simama is the Mother of ‘Thriftplek’ and two cacti. She brings the nation closer to their Pinterest fashion dreams without compromising the Earth. She is reliving her Disney years, but in the heart of Johannesburg and with a better wardrobe. Kamogelo Koapeng is a 22 year old college dropout and sustainable fashion enthusiast from the Vaal.

Together they make up the duo of Thriftplek and we welcome them both to The FRM Newsletter to share what they’ve been into recently :)

🏡👖 Thriftplek 

Firstly, Happy Birthday to our baby! The hottest thrift stop in the country! It turned two this month and the love has been unmeasurable. What began as a “thrift spaza” blew up into a house of thrift with a sustainable catalog that serves a variety of styles. Pretty much explains why we have a community of individuals you’d never imagine in one place. Lol we always joke about how we’d never get stranded in any corner of the country because we’ve got Ts everywhere. Thriftplekers, when you see this, We love you! 

♻️💯 SUS

Kamo: SUS, a way of life that attracted itself to us through our journey in sustainability. We’re all against material waste but what does that mean if you’re not prolonging the lifespan of your clothes? Let’s cancel the double standards in buying preloved goods by remembering that nothing is perfect and even where it seems like there’s nothing left, there are always ways to breathe new life into something. Keep alive.

🚫💰 Not sponsored by Mom and Dad

We’ve both been away from home for almost two years now and adulting gets more difficult by the day. If it’s not having to think about what’s for dinner, it’s getting 35.3kWh for hundred bucks and waking up to the realization that it’s all on you. As scary as that may sound, taking baby steps while keeping your eyes on yours and remembering that a win is a win no matter how small, will get you by. 

🎵🔂 Bad energy stay far away!

Kamo: If you want to step out of the house feeling untouchable I highly recommend some Skepta to activate GREAZE MODE! The man goes in hard every time like it’s his last and that’s the spirit everyone should keep innit? 

👢💋 Real boot obsession 

Tandaza: I never used to understand the excitement children got from wearing boots but I totally get it now! Once you get your foot in a boot you will forever have the unexplainable desire to complete an outfit with a pair. My collection currently consists of cowboy boots, platforms, multiple 70s heeled brown leather boots and counting.

🪡🟡 The Adidas Originals zip-up track top in color 

Kamo: Making its way back is the Adidas original zip-up. This time we’re not pairing it with its bottoms but instead we’re mashing it with anything from formal trousers to minis.

🍱🧎🏾 Bree Halaal Foods

Tandaza: This Indian cuisine joint on corner Eloff and Plein street has us on choke hold. We’ve memorized the weekly menu and lately I’ve been enjoying the Chicken Chana and rice served on Wednesdays and Kamogelo the Briyani on Fridays. Sometimes when lunch has been sorted we takeaway fresh Chapatis to make a simple wrap for dinner. When in the city and looking for something warmly prepared, I highly recommend this spot.

💄🕶 Accessories are the key element to your outfit

Tandaza: Without accessories your outfit could easily go unseen. The little unique pieces make the silent killing. P.S. A pair of Y2K inspired shades are a must have right now! 

🧼💚 Organic Soap Barn

Growing up has come with a great interest in self-care and Organic Soap Barn has definitely simplified our skincare routine. Their products are natural and suitable for all skin types, they also help you start your own profitable business from home. Check them out! 

🍃✌🏾 “Eyes low but I see everything”

We’re going to have to respectfully disagree with Frank Ocean’s mom and other critics... We keep it high and moving this side – y’all be safe though.