Fashionistas Get a Hollywoodbets Durban July Preview

DURBAN – From flowing fabrics that rippled across the catwalk, to captivating avant-garde interpretations, this year’s fashion offerings and designs raised the bar at the Hollywoodbets Durban July Preview Fashion Show, presented by Gateway Theatre of Shopping.

Friday evening's event was a show of style, elegance, glamour and creativity, proving why Africa’s Greatest Horseracing Event on July 6 is also Durban's must-attend fashion, social and entertainment event.

The glittering showcase of fashion, brought together the top 10 finalists in the Hollywoodbets Durban July Young Designer Award component, the nine Rising Stars presented by Durban Fashion Fair, and the six Invited Designer offerings in one grand finale, alongside the Gateway Theatre of Shopping Ready to Wear collection.

The winners in each category – as well as the public fashion component – will be announced on July 6.

Friday's event wrapped up with a musical finale as Jeremy Loops made a surprise appearance, and those who stayed around after the fashion were treated to a wonderfully casual performance from one of South Africa's top performers.

“I really do believe that this year’s cohort of Young Designers went all out, did their research and presented a diverse offering of the ‘Ride the Wave’ theme. It has been truly amazing to see the different elements of the ocean, along with different interpretations of a wave – some have even used their own personal journey in their garments,” said Vuyisile Ngobese, Hollywood Foundation, Public Relations Officer.

“This year has brought in fresh new inspiration into the fashion scene. Take for example the move by Kwenzi Nkomo and Makhosi Ntshangase, former DFF Rising Stars, who have made their way back as Invited Designers, affirming their growth in the facing industry.

"This is how the fashion component is supposed to work. They have risen and progressed and are now established in their own right,” said Ngobese.

Speaking about the importance of the fashion element at such an event, she said that the support provided by the Foundation allows students and emerging designers to use the Race Day and the build-up to network, to source buyers, and to interact with industry players so that they can establish themselves.

“I am no expert on fashion, but this year the designers have really embraced the theme. Some have interpreted it in a literal sense with fabrics that flowed like a wave, while others have used texture such as sand and shells – all of which has come together to add value to the July 6, Race Day,” said Stephen Marshall, Events and Marketing Executive Gold Circle.

He added that the fashion element of the Durban July is an important pillar that broadens the market, that enables members of the public to get involved, and draws in sponsors that otherwise might not become involved in a purely horseracing event.”

“After tonight’s fashion show, members of the public can start planning what they are going to wear to this most important event,” said Marshall.

Source: Briefly News