REVIEWS OF HOTEL EXECUTIVE CLUB LOUNGES, KIDS CLUBS AND MORE.
Johannesburg, or Joburg/ Jozi, as many people, especially youngsters, like to call it, is one of the most exciting cities in South Africa. People from all over the country and the world come here for business, travel, and of course, shopping. The city is filled with huge malls, local markets, and street vendors offering everything you can imagine.
Besides the real luxury items, many people also come here to find “fake” products. These are not dangerous or harmful things. They are simply affordable versions of high-end brands. You will find knock-off designer bags, branded-looking clothes, fake watches, and shoes that look like they cost thousands of rands, but don’t.
Let's take a look at some of the best fake markets in Joburg where you can find affordable items.
Located in the heart of the Joburg CBD (Central Business District), Small Street is not really small at all. It is a long pedestrian street lined with vendors and small shops on both sides, and is one of the most famous shopping spots in Johannesburg.
As you walk along the street, you will find stalls stacked with branded clothes, or at least, what look like branded clothes. Adidas tracksuits, Nike sneakers, Gucci belts, and Louis Vuitton bags are sold here at prices that are way cheaper than the originals. It is one of the go-to places for anyone looking for affordable fashion.
The market is very busy, especially in the mornings and late afternoons. Bargaining is common, and prices can sometimes drop by half if you negotiate well. Most of the items are imported, often from China or Turkey, and while they might not last as long as the real ones, they often look just as stylish.
As always, make sure to check the quality of what you are buying. Some items look almost like the real products, while others are more obvious copies.
China Mall is a popular shopping destination that is very well-known across Gauteng. It is located in Crown Mines, not far from Fordsburg. This massive indoor mall is filled with hundreds of shops selling all kinds of items, including electronics, toys, clothes, beauty products, and of course, fake designer items.
You can walk through one shop and find fake Ray-Ban sunglasses, then go next door and see Louis Vuitton-style handbags, followed by shelves full of Nike, Puma, and Fila sneakers, all at prices that are much lower than the originals. It is the kind of place where you can spend hours exploring. Some people even come from other provinces just to shop here.
Dragon City is another huge shopping centre, very popular with small business owners and everyday shoppers. Like China Mall, it has a wide selection of goods, including clothing, footwear, and accessories that are similar to big global brands.
It is especially known for fake designer shoes and handbags. Some of the fake sneakers here look almost identical to the real shoes. Brands like Balenciaga, Vans, Adidas, and Jordan are everywhere. You will even find Yeezy look-alikes that sell for just a fraction of the price.
People also come here to buy in bulk, especially for resale, so if you are buying many items, you might get special discounts.
Fake markets in South Africa play a big role in the city’s shopping culture. They allow everyday people to enjoy stylish clothes, bags, and shoes without breaking the bank.
Of course, not everything is about fake brands. These markets also support small businesses, create jobs, and bring people together. The energy, the bargaining, and the whole culture is all part of Joburg’s unique experience.
We are a family of 4 - mother, father and two children. Our aim is to travel the world and review all travel opportunities to help other families.
If you want the latest information on the best Hotel Executive Club Lounges, Hotel Kids Clubs and other travel information, be sure to sign up for our free newsletter full of tips and great travel ideas.
