Lerato Tshabalala, has worked in media and advertising in South Africa. She shares some of her favourite things with us…
SOME CAREER HIGHLIGHTS?
The temptation is to list all my accolades, but the moments that have meant the most to me have been working with incredible teams. Whether editing a magazine or being an Executive Creative Director at an advertising agency, the best part has always been leading and being part of a team that pulls together, is devoid of egos, and is armed with an attitude of hunting and winning together. To enjoy your work and like the people you work with is a rarity that should be cherished.
WHAT IS LUXURY TO YOU?
Slow mornings, running my own time, spa treatments, afternoon game drives, wearing perfume before going to bed, sipping champagne for no reason, and flying business class on long-haul flights.
YOUR FAVOURITE TRAVEL DESTINATIONS?
Thailand – I went there on my first solo trip in my 20s and I loved everything about it. From the food (oh the food!) to the people and the culture, it’s a glorious place.
Italy – I’ve returned several times and love how even though Milan is quite different to Venice, the food (you can see a thread here) is always spectacular.
New York – two of my sister-friends, Yoli and Lihle, live there, and when I’m in New York I feel like I’m home. I’ve only stayed at a hotel once in New York City, the rest of the time I’m with one of them.
SUMMER TIPPLE?
I love wine, whisky, and a cold beer on a hot day. I have a thing for sampling beers in every African country I visit, like Star in Nigeria and Nile Special in Uganda. But for cocktails, I love an Aperol Spritz, a shaken margarita, and whisky sours. I’m partial to Babylonstoren’s Rosé, Glenfiddich 18, and I never need a reason to have Veuve Clicquot.
FAVOURITE BOOK?
Rohinton Mistry’s A Fine Balance, which was nominated for a Booker Prize in 1996. It’s a heartbreaking story. It reminded me that happy endings are for Disney movies and that life doesn’t give you a break just because you’re kind, but that a sense of humour goes a long way in weathering it.
A RECENT LUXURY BUY?
I bought myself a Goyard Bag Saint Louis GM when I turned 40. It was at the start of the pandemic and I deserved something beautiful to make up for the downer that was my birthday.
WHAT DO YOU COLLECT?
Besides champagne corks, great friends. But I first had to learn to be a good friend to myself before I could attract high-vibrational people. Now I have some stellar human beings around me. I lucked out.
FAVOURITE BEAUTY PRODUCTS?
Eight Hour Cream – I’ve been using it for more than a decade, and I’m amazed at how many black women use it on their lips – I’m convinced we’re their biggest market.
Pat McGrath Labs Divine Blush – I wish it was available in South Africa, but when I’m determined I’ll do whatever it takes to get a product to me.
Tom Ford Noir EDP – I’m a bit of a Tom Ford fangirl because over the years I’ve worn Velvet Orchid and Jasmin Rouge amongst other TF fragrances, but I also adore Grey Vetiver and Oud Wood on a man.
YOUR TOP DINING SPOTS IN SOUTH AFRICA?
Brunch in Joburg has to be at Glenda’s, and Our Local in Cape Town. For lunch, Bobo’s and Kloof Street House in Cape Town, and Kolonaki in Joburg. Come dinner, my favourite restaurant in South Africa is Salsify at the Roundhouse in Camps Bay, closely followed by CHE in Parkwood.
WHAT’S ON YOUR CHRISTMAS WISHLIST?
A Springbok T-shirt. I never saw the need to have one previously, but my patriotism has got the better of me. I’m also after jewellery by Gerda Goosen and an artwork by Thabang Lehobye – I’m in awe of how he sees the Joburg city centre.
