As the anticipation builds for the Hollywoodbets Durban July, this year’s affair is expected to showcase a blend of tradition, innovation, and unmissable fashion flair, cementing its status as a highlight on Africa's social calendar.
Scheduled for 5 July at the Greyville Racecourse, this prestigious gathering is set to welcome approximately 45,000 attendees, promising both glamour and economic vitality for the host city of Durban.
The eThekwini municipality has been proactive in its preparations, with multidisciplinary teams diligently working to clean and enhance the precinct surrounding the racecourse.
“This included cutting grass and pruning trees as well as street sweeping. Teams consisted of officials from iTRUMP Area-Based Management, the Cleansing and Solid Waste Unit, the Metro Police, the Roads Department, and the Parks Department, as well as volunteers from Ensure Security and Ensure Ubuntu Cleaning.”
This year marks the 128th edition, and the event is poised to dazzle not only with its races but also with the vibrant theme of “Marvels of Mzansi”.
Designers, both professional and amateur, are eager to showcase their creative talents, making this aspect of the event as thrilling as the races themselves.
It is explained that the fashion component will feature three official elements: the Durban Fashion Fair Rising Stars, the Hollywoodbets Durban July Invited Designers Showcase, and the 10 finalists from the Hollywoodbets Durban July Young Designer competition.
Renowned and emerging designers will also display their creations, while the student designers await the announcement of winners for incredible prizes and the coveted title of the year.
Fashion enthusiasts will have the chance to showcase their own attire in the Hollywoodbets Durban July Raceday Fashion Awards, while ticket holders can enter categories such as classic racewear for men and women, best dressed couple, and the standout raceday hat or fascinator, further adding an element of competition to the day.
Adding a modern flair to the cherished traditions, the cutting-edge automotive manufacturer Omoda has joined the celebration, backing renowned designer Khosi Nkosi.
The dynamic duo of Nobukhozi and Thabo Mukwevho leads the design house, which has garnered attention at Milan and Paris Fashion Weeks. Their collaboration with the brand, encapsulated in the Ndlovukazi campaign, is a tribute to African royalty and beauty, where it serves as a canvas for their innovative vision.
Shannon Gahagan, Brand and Marketing Manager for Omoda & Jaecoo South Africa, expressed pride in the partnership, stating,“Our collaboration with Khosi Nkosi is a celebration of cultural power and creative expression. Through the Ndlovukazi campaign and this bespoke Omoda C7 wrap, we're proud to honour heritage in a way that moves the story forward.”
Saturday Star