Fashion was every bit as captivating as the racing at this year’s Hollywoodbets Durban July, with racegoers embracing the 2026 theme, Country Allure, in a celebration of creativity, craftsmanship and timeless style. Inspired by South Africa’s landscapes, heritage and natural beauty, entrants brought the theme to life through elegant tailoring, striking silhouettes, handcrafted accessories and beautifully considered details. The annual Raceday Fashion Awards, presented by Durban Fashion Fair, attracted 150 entrants competing across four coveted categories. Gistine Kifubula claimed the title of Classic Racewear Female in a design by Nqobisa Ndabeni, while Richard Tulinatbitu impressed the judges to win Classic Racewear Male. Larnelle Maddocks and Pamela Shabane successfully defended their title as Most Striking Couple with coordinated bronze and ivory ensembles designed by Brenda Warring, and Zama Nkosi, wearing a design by Zandile Masondo, took top honours in the Exceptional Raceday Hat category.
Photos: BRONWYN FORBES-HARDINGE and GRAHAM DANIEL
