Oh my gosh, racegoers are in for a posh July

The talk at Greyville Racecourse on Thursday was all about the horses that have been nominated for this year’s Vodacom Durban July (VDJ) on July 6, with its increased stake of R3.5 million. But there was also an excited buzz over this year’s fashion theme that is sure to see a return to the glory days of elegance.

The annual launch of the Champions Season saw everyone – from Gold Circle officials and those in the racing industry to designers and fashionistas – expressing delight at this year’s elegant, refined and stylish fashion theme, Posh? Oh My Gosh!

In table talk over a buffet lunch, many said they hoped the outrageous creations of the past few years would be replaced by the classy style one would see at Royal Ascot.

“This is liberating and long overdue,” said internationally renowned Durban designer Terrence Bray, who has been in the industry since 1997.

He spoke of the value of the VDJ to the fashion industry.

“The July groomed my fashion career and the exposure young designers and students get is unparalleled.”

Designer Haroun Hansrot predicted that fashion this year would go back in time, but have a modern twist.

“The theme is also perfect for our mix of cultures, and people will look beautiful and elegant, whatever their culture.”

VDJ fashion director, Tiffany Prior, said the fashion competitions were being tailored to the theme this year.

“We have done away with the avant-garde category and introduced classic menswear and womenswear categories.”

Gill Simpkins, public relations and marketing manager for Gold Circle, who has been in the industry for 18 years, said she believed people should dress up for race meetings, starting with Gold Circle staff.

“We are encouraging our staff to wear hats on race days to bring back elegance.

“I think this year’s theme is perfect and we are going to see a lot of picture hats and the type of elegance you see at Royal Ascot.”