Meet Kevin Ellis … Durban’s own Fred Astaire, fashion maverick and an unstoppable creative force who has no intention of slowing down.
When Kevin Ellis steps into a room you instantly feel a whirl of energy, flamboyance and passion. Whether he’s executing a line dance with cowboy flair, dazzling in feathers and rhinestones or designing an outfit that makes heads spin, Kevin does nothing in half measures.
Dubbed ‘The Greatest Showman’ by the hundreds who know him, this Zimbabwe-born powerhouse is not only a two-time World and 2025 European triple dance champion, but also a fashion designer, stylist, choreographer, motivational speaker, cruise ship hero and much more. His life reads like a film – one set to a beat, painted in bold colours, and stitched with sequins.
Kevin’s journey began in the heart of movement itself. “Dance came first,” he says, without hesitation. “I’ve been dancing for 50 years. My first tentative steps were soon transformed into a soft-shoe shuffle and twirl.” Before long he became Zimbabwe’s 10-dance ballroom champion, and South Africa’s undefeated freestyle champ in singles, doubles and triples.
But Kevin’s creative world has always extended beyond the dancefloor. When asked about the first design that made people truly stop and stare, he vividly recalls: “My first Rothmans July Most Striking Couple outfit 25 years ago – black and white, a hint of zebra, see-through mesh, huge hats, OTT jewellery… cowboy zebra chaps for me, with a feathered top hat and walking stick. For her, a low-plunging dress with huge side rings and an enormous hat. It was theatrical, daring and unforgettable and it also took first prize.”
His aesthetic is inspired by the likes of John Galliano – flamboyant, avant-garde yet elegant – and every design bears his bold, detailed and deeply expressive signature. It’s this dramatic flair that makes Kevin not just a stylist, it makes him a storyteller.
While ballroom gave Kevin his first platform, line dancing now fuels his fire. “The music, the cowboy boots – and the fact that it’s easier on the body – offer freedom and let you express yourself with steps in your own style and energy.”
And while perceived as Americana, Kevin has helped transform line dancing into a truly Durban affair. “It’s becoming more popular than ballroom,” he explains. “You don’t need a dance partner and it’s for all ages.” Performing at an all-star level, and injecting personality into each move, Kevin is helping a new generation of dancers see the fun and fitness in this accessible, stylish dance form. “I show them that at my age (63) it’s still cool.”
On the fashion front, Kevin’s name is almost synonymous with the Durban July. His track record is as decorated as his wardrobe, winning Most Striking Couple, Best Hat, Avant-garde, Best Dressed Male, Most Elegant Lady and invited twice as a featured designer. “I’ve also choreographed the stage dance shows,” he adds, crediting his partner, Gareth Greaves, for helping him arrange award-winning performances.
One of his most cherished fashion moments is his swimwear range at the MTN Fashion Week, where he was invited to open the show. It was bold, body-positive and beautiful – everything Kevin stands for.
“I’m thrilled to see fashion in South Africa becoming more daring and more culturally expressive. When it comes to my personal design philosophy, fashion should be personal. That’s the sweet spot,” he explains.
For Spring, Kevin is excited about flowing silks, faux fur, pastels with bold prints and touches of animal print. “Colour is what excites me most,” he says – a perfect match for a season of renewal and joy.
If he could dress any celebrity for a spring dance party in Durban? “Jane Linley-Thomas,” he says with a grin. Picture this: Gold Swarovski-stoned cowboy boots, a long bright Frida Kahlo-inspired jacket with crochet flowers, tasselled sleeves, a denim cowboy shirt hand-painted with floral motifs, gold cowboy hat, tassel earrings, 70s sunglasses and a huge cowgirl saddle bag.
“Acessories will include very long red pigtails with gold tassels on the ends and rings on every finger – symbolising rodeo.” That’s the kind of bold, maximalist magic Kevin lives for.
And what’s playing in the background while he designs? “Café del Mar,” he says – the perfect soundtrack for a mind that balances drama with rhythm and calm with creativity.
Asked to describe his personal style in three words, Kevin replies: “Theatrical. Elegant. Chaos.”
And yet, behind the feathers and sequins lies a story of true courage. More than 30 years ago, he was part of the entertainment team aboard the Oceanos cruise ship, which infamously sank off the Wild Coast in 1991.
Kevin helped save 690 passengers and was awarded for his bravery. “People might be surprised to learn that,” he says, almost casually. But for those who know Kevin, it makes perfect sense – whether on stage or in crisis, he shows up, he leads and shines.
And tomorrow? “Who knows? No day is the same and, frankly, I wouldn’t want it any other way.”
From ballroom brilliance to fashion fireworks, Kevin is a living, dancing, designing example of fearless creativity. He doesn’t follow trends – he makes them. And in a world that often demands conformity, he reminds us how powerful it is to simply be yourself – but louder, bolder and with a killer hat.
Step into spring
Kevin’s Top 10 style tips for 2025
- Colour pop is key – Don’t be afraid to go bold with tangerine, lemon zest or cobalt.
- Mix textures – Lightweight knits with sheer overlays? Yes please.
- Line it up – Think structured pants with playful movement – line dancing approved!
- Say yes to accessories – A statement hat or stacked bangles can elevate any Spring look.
- Layer lightly – Use mesh, lace or sheer silks to build soft dimension.
- Shoe game strong – Dance-friendly, style-forward footwear is your Spring secret weapon.
- Floral with edge – Florals aren’t new, but pair them with unexpected cuts or leather.
- Play with prints – Stripes, geometrics and polka dots are all trending.
- Genderless chic – Blur the lines – spring 2025 is about freedom of expression.
- Confidence is the best fit – The best spring look is one that makes you feel alive.
