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Normally at the Vodacom Durban July people go the extra mile to show off their fashion A-game, but it seems many of those in attendance misinterpreted this year’s theme, which was African Stars.
There were a lot more misses than hits, and far too many people dressed in traditional attires as if they were going to a wedding.
As soon as I entered the Greyville Racecourse, I was greeted by African prints everywhere. As far as the eye could see, it was an ocean of it. The real action at the races is not really on the track but in the centre of it, where guests pay for access to a number of fancy marquees.
I visited the Boomtown marquee first where I bumped into glowing mum-to-be Linda Mtoba, the former Isibaya star, who is expecting her first child.
I must say, she easily made it on to the best-dressed list.
“I am extremely excited at becoming a mom. It’s one of the things I have always prayed for, this new and exciting chapter I am starting with my husband and the love of my life,” said the delighted Mtoba.
Media personality and businesswoman Bonang Matheba was stunning. She looked every inch an African goddess in a beaded dress by celebrity designer Gert-Johan Coetzee.
And the fashion misses?
TV personality, rapper, actress, businesswoman and model Boity Thulo seems to be getting it wrong of late. She wore a long, glittering purple dress as if she was attending a gala dinner.
Sassy actress, producer and businesswoman Khanyi Mbau opted for a gold dress with a long, white fur coat. And, for the first time in a long while, she rocked her natural hair in cornrows.
As always, entertainer and TV personality Zodwa Wabantu, was practically naked in a very transparent fishnet black dress. She had tongues wagging everywhere she went.
But what about the men?
Many of them drew their African Star inspiration from Naija, it seems.
Actor, model and entrepreneur Maps Maponyane wore a green Nigerian outfit, while we spotted radio boss Bob Mabena at the Boomtown marquee dressed in a Carducci suit.
Once again this year the Chaise Lounge marquee didn’t dissapoint. Boasting VVIP status, it partnered with Moët & Chandon to offer a complimentary bar and a mouth-watering gourmet food selection. Champagne corks popping punctuated one’s visit there.
After a long day of socialising I ended my Durban July visit at the Glenlivet Jazztown marquee. I settled in to great performances from the likes of Mafikizolo and Yvonne Chaka Chaka, the Princess of Africa, who obviously didn’t struggle to live up to the theme.
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