Around the World in Religion: South Africa

Religion may have been created in East London but over the years it’s grown into an international brand. We’ve got stores in England, Indonesia, Australia, America and more. That’s right, we get around! So we're giving you a taste of each of our stores, starting with Johannesburg, South Africa.

Hi Thembi! What’s your job title and how long have you been at Religion?

I’m the store manager here at Religion. I have been here for just 2 months and 12 days. Beforehand I was travelling, and I spent 3 months in Wellington, New Zealand.

Describe your store? What’s the area like?

The store is situated at 44 Stanley Ave in Milpark, Johannesburg. The area is a student area as there is a university nearby. However when you walk into 44 Stanley its like stepping into a whole different world that's buzzing with fashionistas, local celebrities and the media. It has an upmarket, chilled vibe to it. After working here for a month I realised that this is the perfect location for the store, even better than being in a huge shopping mall. I love the store, the front of the store is glass so there’s always a view of the store from the outside. The shelves are lined with white light LEDs so even when the store is closed, people still have a full view of the items in the store. The graphics in the store are amazing. Love it...

What do you and the rest of the Religion team like best about the brand?

Of course we love the clothes, but also the feel of the store. It creates a comfortable working environment and we all look forward to coming to work every day.

Describe the style of your customers?

All of our customers have a different style. No one that comes into Religion has the same style as the next person that walks in, there's a different element to each of them. There's an item for every style out there in the store.

What are your bestsellers?

At the moment we have two popular items in store. The American flag print jeans and the American flag print cardigan. People are crazy about these two items!

Religion in an East London brand – what do you think makes it so popular in South Africa and internationally?

Well it’s a very different look and these days people pride themselves in being different. They want to have a unique style that very few people have and that's why I think it’s so popular. If I want something that I know I won’t see on everyone then Religion’s for me.

Describe your style…

I'd describe my style as rocker chic. Taking the grungy style and adding a feminine twist to it.

What is your favourite piece for this season and how are you wearing it?

My favourite piece for this season would have to be my Religion black drop crotch sweat pants. I wear them with a pair of air max sneakers, a simple wife beater and a hoodie on chilly days.

What’s on your playlist?

At the moment I’m listening to: Little Dragon, Florence And The Machine, Amy Winehouse, The Internet and Corinne Bailey Rae.

What’s the best night out in Johannesburg?

The best night out in Johannesburg would start off with dinner at Moyo at Zoo Lake, followed by drinks at MiBar in Rosebank and then some dancing at club Hush in Rosebank. Not forgetting looking fresh in Religion clothing. Night made...

Where’s your favourite spot in South Africa?

My favourite spot in SA would be The Sands in Sandton. Perfect chilled environment on the pool deck, enjoying the best sushi and cocktails while watching the sun set on a Sunday. Not forgetting the pool in the shape of an absolute vodka bottle...

A girl after our own heart. If you’re in Johannesburg or planning a trip, you can find the store at 44 Stanley Ave, Milpark, Johannesburg, 2001, or take a look at the website here.