The buzz of anticipation ahead of the Vodacom Durban July is in full swing as the annual race day approaches. Check it out…

With just days to go to the Vodacom Durban July, followers of fashion are asking just how far to take the thorny issue of interpreting the theme “Posh? Oh My Gosh!” that clearly takes racing fashion back to its traditional roots.

No clue what to wear to this years’ theme? Never fear. Armed with loads of class and some valuable advice from SA’s hottest designers, you’ll be a knock-out. Here’s a look at what some of the invited designers had to say about this year’s theme…

“The best thing to do is go the 50/50 route when it comes to this year’s Vodacom Durban July theme,” says invited designer Jean-Paul Botha. “Divide it in half… 50 per cent literal interpretation and 50 percent fashion trend.”

Founder and creative director of his own fashion label Ruff Tung, which he shares with Ludwig Bezuidenhout, Botha hails from Durban and is a popular name on the Vodacom Durban July map, thanks to his signature style of sexy polished classics with a contemporary twist.

Armani, Versace, Gucci, Prada… just a handful of fashion gurus who’ve made their careers internationally. There is no denying that there are incredible fashion designers throughout Europe and the rest of the world, but it shouldn’t go unnoticed that right on our own doorstep exist some very special gems in the field.

Mention the name Hanrie Lues and people start buzzing. Think nostalgia, passion (mountains of it), vivacious, fun. With her artistic flair, eye for beauty and creative imagination, we’re not surprised that she returns to the very event that changed her life, the Vodacom Durban July, as one of this year’s invited designers.

“I can’t describe how fulfilling it is – starting my Vodacom Durban July journey as a third year student way back in 2005, and finally arriving as an invited designer in 2013. To know I have worked myself up to this point is an unbelievable feeling,” says Lues.

For the first time, blonde, ambitious and proudly South Africa fashion designer Bianca Warren will reveal her exclusive collection at the Vodacom Durban July Invited Designers Showcase brought to you by Canon. With her garments nearing the end of production, it’s anyone’s guess what eye-catching outfits will be revealed. It’s safe to say though, that gold is huge.

“I absolutely love this theme; it’s elegant, sophisticated, timeless and classy. Who wouldn’t want to be a part of it?” gushes Warren.

“Think Gossip Girl’s Blaire Waldorf or Kate Middleton, but with a bit of an edge” she says.

South African fashion entrepreneur and journalist, Craig Jacobs, renowned for his ability to forecast trends, create consciousness and mould movements, is no stranger to the Vodacom Durban July.

Better known for his fashion label Fundudzi which incorporates environmentally friendly materials including bamboo, soy, corn and organic cottons, he’s a fashion mogul, who gives edge and style to just about any outfit. And, he simply can’t contain his excitement at this year’s theme.

“I love the fact that the theme this year is so tongue in cheek and that’s the way I am going to be playing with it.”
Be sure not to miss the 117th running of the Vodacom Durban July which takes place at Greyville Racecourse this Saturday the 6 July 2013.