David West/Dokter and Misses
113 Long Street, Cape Town CBD
A haven for quirky furniture and classic designer wear
In the midst of Long Street’s trendy boutique stores is the two-month-old David West/Dokter And Misses designer shop, showcasing the best of quirky Dokter And Misses furniture and accessories complemented by David West’s latest 50’s inspired summer collection: ‘How to Find True Love and Happiness in the Present Day’. Co-owner, Elmi Badenhorst has been with the David West brand from the beginning and describes his latest collection as ‘more feminine and wearable, summery and playful’ in comparison to his previous work.
Elmi Badenhorst (shop co-owner) previously worked as a stylist and in film production and set design before deciding that she wanted to branch out.
‘David and I met 10 years ago when he asked me to model for him, so I did and I fell in love with what he does. When David decided to re-launch himself after working for Truworths for two years – which was the most difficult time of my life because I had nothing to wear – I said to him, let’s get together and make it work. So we opened the first shop last year November, called Weekend Special in Woodstock, which is where we do the launches of new the collections. However the store is only open on a Saturday, which is a bit of a joke, and we had been looking to open a shop in town that operates daily. I’ve also always liked Dokter and Misses, who are based in Johannesburg and while we were looking, they were also wanting to open a store in Cape Town – so we thought, why not join forces?’
The store itself has a beautiful Victorian-style glass shop front with a small interior and a very unique Masonite and chip foam fitting room. Scattered around the store are chairs, stools, tables, shelves, lamps and mirrors all by Dokter and Misses. Guests are welcome to take a seat and people watch or relax while their partners try on the clothing. There are four clothing rails, equally dedicated to women’s and men’s wear – all David West designs. Accessories such as belts and pendants as well as office stationary items by Dokter And Misses can also be found.
‘We designed all the shop fittings and Dokter and Misses ended up making them for us. Clients that like our work, also like their work, and I think the brands work well together. We are also learning a lot from each other,’ explained Elmi. 021-801-4733
This article was featured in the Khuluma magazine
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