The Durban July Handicap is about more than just horses and jockeys; celebrities and socialites find a day at the races the ideal opportunity to mingle, network and show off their designer outfits. The Durban July doesn’t just mean increased activity at every port agency Durban and more air freight traffic to Kwazulu-Natal; the event brings the stars out to play in the warm Durban weather. The Durban July fashion theme for 2010 was “Blooming Great Day”, and this year’s races attracted more than 50 000 visitors in their floral finery.
Some celebs really were in full bloom, looking radiant in their Durban July outfits. Ladies in lace and ruffles, gents in bright colours and floral patterns, all strutted their stuff at the races – some Durban July ensembles hinting at the floral theme, and others taking it more literally with artificial grass and gardening accessories!
Of course, the day was not without its share of fashion faux pas – there were some Durban July dress disasters that looked in dire need of being weeded out. However, most visitors looked the part and blossomed in the Durban July sunshine. It may not be spring in South Africa yet, but the imminent arrival of the sunny season was heralded in style at the 2010 Durban July. With all the gorgeous get-ups on parade, it’s a wonder anyone was paying attention to the horses!
