By Ashley Allard
Slow fashion has experienced an increase in popularity in recent years, promoting sustainability and localised shopping. Students and tourists alike found their second-hand goods and locally-created artisanal goods at the Dorp Street Sunday Market, which has become a Stellenbosch bucket-list item. However, late-night Saturday study sessions or Sunday morning hangovers sometimes, understandably, come between the Stellenbosch student population and the Sunday market. If that is the case, I have great news: the market has come to the Rooiplein!
Market on the Plein was created by Adam and Eve Collab, who are also the organisers of the Dorp Street Sunday Market. The multiple stalls along the Rooiplein are all familiar to those who regularly shop at the usual market on Sundays, and boast vintage and thrifted clothing, art and décor, hand-crafted jewellery and health products. Market on the Plein has already gained popularity, as it accommodates the busy student schedule. Taking place every Wednesday from 09:00 until 15:00, the market gives students the time to browse on their way to class or shop during their breaks.
The owner of Thrift Emporium, Saleema, says that Market on the Plein is “a little different to what [the vendors] are used to”. The students have more of a particular style than the Sunday market regulars; therefore, the stock changes on Wednesdays. She adds that this new location has given small brands the chance to network with the students, creating more of a stable clientele.
With more young people in Stellenbosch looking to slow rather than fast fashion, Market on the Plein is the perfect way to learn more about sustainable practices. For example, Madrie of Red Velvet Green Suede loves to connect with the students and teach them more about the differences between vintage and second-hand clothing. The Wednesday market, she says, “lifts the general feel of the university and of the [Rooiplein]. There is more fun and laughter than before”.
Many of the vendors that sell on Dorp Street and the Rooiplein rely on markets like these to make a permanent income, explains the owner of Franselize Jewellery, Franselize Roussouw. With winter approaching, the Sunday Market is often cancelled due to rainy weather conditions; however, now, with it becoming a bi-weekly market, the vendors are presented with a second opportunity to sell their crafts and goods.
On the student side, the reviews are almost all positive: CJ Meyer, for example, says that the market is pleasant and enjoyable, preferring to shop for “previously-loved gems” rather than indulge in fast fashion.
The immediate reactions to the change in location, however, are mixed. Another student, Khyati Narsai, reports that she initially felt “a bit overwhelmed” having to wade through the crowds of people on her way to class. But, after engaging with the vendors, it was evident what an ideal location the Rooiplein is for the small businesses and students alike.
The Wednesday market is not only creating jobs, supporting families and promoting artisanal goods, but it is also the perfect place to introduce sustainability, making slow fashion more accessible to a younger local market. Market on the Plein has already become a hit amongst the Stellenbosch students and is only gaining momentum. Be sure to show some love to local vendors next Wednesday on the Rooiplein!
