Man's Choice to Spend on Luxe Shoes Over Lobola Sparks Debate

• A video of a man choosing luxury Christian Louboutin sneakers over lobola sparked widespread online debate
• Mzansi viewers were divided between admiration for the fashion statement and criticism over spending priorities
• The clip highlighted discussions about money, personal choices and cultural expectations among younger South Africans
• Briefly News asked financial expert Fulufhelani Mashapha which strategies individuals can use to stabilise their finances when their expenses exceed their income

South Africans engaged in a lively discussion after a viral TikTok showed a man’s luxury purchase, raising questions about spending, lifestyle, and cultural expectations.

A video has captured the attention of South Africans after a man was seen flaunting a pair of luxury Christian Louboutin sneakers priced at nearly R28,000. Posted by TikTok user @bijas8 on 24 August 2025, the clip quickly went viral, garnering over 3,500 likes and more than 300 comments in less than a day.

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The video highlighted the iconic red sole of the designer shoes, with a store tag clearly showing the R27,799 price. The man added that instead of paying lobola, he would rather buy himself the expensive shoe. While some viewers admired the purchase and praised the man’s fashion sense, others expressed shock at the expense and priorities, particularly amid the country’s challenging economic climate.

Many of the discussions compared lavish spending with traditional obligations like lobola. Many users argued the money could have been better spent on culturally significant commitments, while others defended personal choice, insisting lifestyle decisions shouldn’t be judged by outsiders.

Luxury spending sparks cultural debate

The debate mirrors a broader conversation in South Africa about balancing cultural expectations with modern lifestyle aspirations. For some, investing in high-end brands signals success and self-reward; for others, it raises concerns about misplaced priorities.

Despite the mixed reactions, the video sparked widespread engagement, prompting reflection on money, identity, and tradition. While the Louboutin purchase is ultimately a personal choice, it underscores how online platforms amplify conversations that touch on broader societal values.

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Briefly News asked financial expert Fulufhelani Mashapha for strategies individuals can implement to stabilise their finances. She explained:

"Setting up an emergency fund, even if small, creates a safety net. Financial advisors often recommend incremental income growth strategies, like part-time gigs or leveraging skills for consulting, alongside disciplined savings habits."

Mzansi reacted to the video

Mahlase486 wrote:

"As I'm ageing in my 30's I stopped buying expensive clothes and focusing on my house."

Mada wrote:

"So feleletsa se nkga. 😂😂"

Fiki wrote:

"Whatever makes you happy with your money, do it."

Kgohlelelo wrote:

"With that R27 799.00, I would renovate the house."

Clivisto wrote:

"Ramaphosa is a billionaire, he wears Florsheim R1,800, Johan Rupert wears Grashoppers of R1,400, Trump wears Johnston & Murphy R1,500."

Thabo 379 wrote:

"Price ya Golf eh fresh."

Mahlako Mathiba wrote:

"My dream is to buy time peace for that amount. One day is one day. 🥰🥰🥰"

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Simi wrote:

"So keng after eo o reka colour engwe fr next weekend?? Or o betha eo til other one."

Check out the TikTok video below:

3 Briefly News stories about lobola

• A woman's lobola ceremony had a comical moment, thanks to her dog, which took part in the festivities.
• South Africans were livid when a woman from KwaZulu-Natal abandoned her child for lobola negotiations.
• A video captured a beautiful lobola ceremony, documenting the moment her fiancé's family requested her hand in marriage.

Updated by Hilary Sekgota, Human Interest HOD at Briefly News.

Source: Briefly News