What to wear if you aren’t following the HDJ theme at the Durban July

THE countdown to Africa’s biggest race day, the Hollywoodbets Durban July, has begun.

All roads lead to eThekwini as the Hollywoodbets Greyville Racecourse hosts another exciting Durban July event. As much as the Durban July is about horse racing, it has a big fashion element to it. Guests are expected to put their best foot forward for this extravagant event, while invited designers and student designers will showcase jaw-dropping garments.

It’s a given that some will not follow this year’s theme, “Show Me Your Honey”, and that’s okay.

But that doesn’t mean that you must now slack off and look out of place at the grandest affair on the social calendar.

These are the top five things to wear if you won’t be following the theme.

1 Outerwear

Durban is usually warm, even in winter, but it’s always good to be well prepared. Don’t be afraid to layer. Make sure your outfit looks just as amazing with a coat on, as without. Wearing a dress? Maybe go for a pant suit this time. Or make sure your dress will accommodate outerwear. That way, you will still look luxurious while keeping warm. The same goes for gents. Suiting alone won’t cut it anymore. The overcoat is becoming a style necessity.

2 Accessories

Give people something to talk about. Distract them with accessories. That way, people won’t notice that

you didn’t stick to the theme. They’ll be intrigued by your accessories. Wear that hat with a plume of feathers! Don’t forget the gloves! Whether it’s the satin opera gloves or sheer gloves for a more sleek look, old world opulence is always appreciated.

3 Carry a clutch

At big events like these, you want to keep all your belongings close. Carry a catchy clutch, preferably an African

print one. It will make you stand out from the crowd.

4 Colour block

If you’re not sticking to the theme, at least follow the colours. Don’t come in black as if you’re attending a funeral. Go for bold, bright colours like yellow, red, blue or green. That way, you will still fit in and look the part. After all, bees are attracted to beautiful, colourful flowers.

5 White Footwear

It’s going to be a busy day, and the last thing you want is discomfort. So if you ever thought of wearing stilettos or those uncomfortable lace-ups, forget that idea, it’s not going to work.

Wear sneakers or loafers instead. These days sneakers and chunky loafers have become as luxurious as dress shoes and high heels and can easily elevate your look.

Save those formal shoes for your Sunday best and pull up in your sneakers, preferably white.