The annual Hollywoodbets Durban July at Greyville Racecourse returned on 5 July 2025 with its vibrant theme, Marvels of Mzansi—a celebration of South Africa’s cultural diversity, natural beauty, and fashion ingenuity. From coaches to caps and suits to fascinators, here’s your guide to owning the sartorial spotlight.
This year’s standout styles were dramatic: oversized puff sleeves, balloon skirts, sculptural corsets, and exaggerated hats. Theatrical headgear—whether fascinators, turbans or sculptural hats—were essential, both fashionable and functional warding off the winter sun
Standout appearances included:
Somizi Mhlongo, who elevated race-day fashion into theatrical couture with eight gasp-worthy outfit changes, including a gown covered in newspaper clippings and dramatic headwear.
South African personalities like Gogo Skhotheni, who channelled Ndebele queen energy in a black-gold ensemble by Sihle Masango
Naliyani Uma’s show-stopping couture—crafted in ethereal layers, dye techniques, and symbolism reflecting her heritage
