Durban – The theme for the 2019 Vodacom Durban July has been announced, inviting the stars of the racing and social world to the big day at Greyville Racecourse on Saturday 6 July 2019.

Released every year to set the tone for the rolling programme of fashion events that precede the raceday and to guide the fashion and decor on the day itself, the theme is the handiwork of Gold Circle’s Event Marketing Manager Ken Tweddell each year.

This year’s theme “Stars of Africa” touches on the quality field of thoroughbreds that always grace the iconic Greyville track and the gathering of ‘A’ list celebrities that frequent the event.

“The Vodacom Durban July is the one day in the year when everyone feels like a star,” said Tweddell. “From the thoroughbreds to the jockeys, owners, trainers and grooms to every spectator and punter and every socialite just there to be part of the big occasion.”

Tweddell said that the Vodacom Durban July was now comfortable in its status as Africa’s Greatest Horseracing Event and this ownership is displayed through its roots in the fashion and culture of Africa.

“The raceday is always very elegant and chic, and it is exciting to see a marked trend of bespoke designer wear being worn to the Vodacom Durban July that shows a very strong African influence,” said Tweddell.

“Whether it is the subtle use of colour or silhouettes, fascinators or hats or the accessorizing of the outfits, bespoke African fashion is very strong right now, and growing and we hope that this theme will encourage and showcase that, in the context of a very stylish and elegant event.”

Not to be too prescriptive, the theme touches on numerous sub-themes that will give aspiring designers and socialites wanting to make a statement interesting elements to focus on.

“Whether it is stars in the sky themselves, or the environmentally-conscious green mention, to the reference to champagne and the layer of opportunity by including a “Hall of Fame”, there are so many opportunities to explore, interpret and develop your own take on this theme,” he said.

This is sure to resonate with the legions of fashionistas and in particular the student designers, who will start work on their garment designs soon.

“Everyone can design their own constellation for the day. Just be a star at the Vodacom Durban July,” encouraged Tweddell.

STARS OF AFRICA
The stars of Africa they shine at night,
Lighting the skies so mystically bright.
They sparkle on throughout the day,
Showing themselves in a different way.

Down to earth it’s the theatre so green,
Which horse you fancy, maybe a dream.
The adrenaline rush is what it’s all about,
Your choice to win? Shout! Let it all out.

Homegrown couture enriches the show,
Dressed up a constellation in order to glow.
Dressed down a dash for those in the game,
Smart and comfortable, for them “Hall of Fame”.

Celebrate culture with modern zest,
Tradition and colour stand out from the rest.
All different, they dazzle different too,
Cosmic energy engines – which one be you?

From Cape to Cairo, from Dakar to Durban,
From country lanes to streets suburban.
Like bubbles in fine sparkling wine,
It’s the Stars of Africa that shine.

The Vodacom Durban July.
Africa’s Greatest Horseracing Event.

More information can be found at www.vodacomdurbanjuly.co.za