Vodacom Durban July Invited Designer Showcase 2013

Words: Dave Macleod | Photos: Gameplan Media

“I see the racecourse adorned with elegance, sophistication, effortless style and understated opulence,” announces renowned Johannesburg fashion designer Hangwani Nengovhela when prompted for her take on this year’s Vodacom Durban July theme.

Delighted by theme "Posh? Oh my Gosh!" the Rubicon women’s wear range deity says this is a look that requires sophistication and high sartorial elegance.

 

“It is the epitome of style. This is a day where the rich and famous come out to play, and it is a truly wonderful platform for any clothing label to gain quality mileage.”

 

Nengovhela’s distinct ethnic-chic signature and self-taught ability to capture the essence and elegance of the female form in her ready-to-wear and once-off designs, make her a sought after name in the fashion world and all eyes are sure to be on her collection to be unveiled during the Vodacom Durban July Invited Designers Showcase, brought to you by Canon.

 

As timeless as her own creations are, coupled with a modern edge and classic and clean lines, Nengovhela says this year’s Vodacom Durban July, is a chance to take things to another level. It is bound to be a fashion showstopper.

 

“This is about understated glamour and elegance. It means pairing a garment with fewer accessories that will give it a classy and sophisticated look.”

 

If you have no idea of what to wear, her advice is to get a stylist’s opinion. This will ensure you arrive on the day looking gorgeous and feeling good in an outfit that is perfect for you.

 

“Ladies, whatever you do, don't wear a dress that you saw on a celebrity. Chances are you will come across more than one enthusiastic fan wearing it,” says Nengovhela.

 

Wearing the wrong sports jersey could also land you in a spot of trouble in the eyes of the fashionistas and judges. A horse racing event as glam as this deserves every effort in the change room.

 

“This is no soccer or cricket match, it is the greatest horseracing event in Africa. This is also your time to shine, so don’t over accessorise - the theme says it all remember, it’s posh!" she says.

 

"If you are usually quite reserved, climb out of that box a little and invest in something that flatters your body shape, wear a hairstyle that complements your outfit and find a shoe that looks fab and is also comfortable to walk in.”

 

Wearing your outfit with confidence, she emphasises, is what will see you through a fantastic, fun-filled event and definitely turn a few heads.

 

The 117th running of the Vodacom Durban July takes place at Greyville Racecourse on Saturday, 6 July. More information can be found at www.vodacomdurbanjuly.co.za

 

Topic: 
Festivals