The 2026 Hollywoodbets Durban July once again proved that the event is about far more than horse racing. On Saturday, the spotlight shifted to the Raceday Fashion Awards presented by Durban Fashion Fair, where South Africa’s most fashionable racegoers transformed the Pulse Stage into a spectacular runway celebrating this year’s Country Allure theme.
Inspired by South Africa’s breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage and timeless sophistication, contestants embraced the theme with remarkable originality. Every outfit told its own story through impeccable tailoring, handcrafted details, contemporary silhouettes and bold accessories, reaffirming why the Hollywoodbets Durban July remains one of the country’s most prestigious fashion showcases.
A Celebration of Creativity and Individual Style
Fashion enthusiasts from across South Africa gathered inside the racecourse to compete in one of the country’s most anticipated race day fashion competitions.
The annual Raceday Fashion Awards, open to members of the public, attracted 150 stylish entrants, each hoping to impress the judges across four prestigious categories:
- Most Striking Couple
- Classic Racewear – Female
- Classic Racewear – Male
- Exceptional Raceday Hat or Fascinator
Every look reflected a unique interpretation of Country Allure, blending modern fashion with local craftsmanship while celebrating the beauty and diversity of South African design.
Classic Female Winner Embodies Country Allure
Taking top honours in the Classic Racewear – Female category was Gistine Kifubula, who captivated judges in a stunning creation designed by Nqobisa Ndabeni.
The winning design perfectly captured the elegance and spirit of this year’s official race day theme.
Following her victory, Kifubula expressed her excitement, saying she was “so grateful and amazed to have won.”
Stylish Duo Retains Their Crown
In one of the day’s standout moments, Larnelle Maddocks and Pamela Shabane successfully defended their title in the Most Striking Couple category after also winning the competition in 2025.
Wearing coordinated bronze and ivory ensembles designed by Brenda Warring, the pair once again impressed judges with a sophisticated look that balanced elegance with striking visual harmony.
Their consecutive victory further cemented their place among the Hollywoodbets Durban July’s most fashionable racegoers.
Contemporary African Craftsmanship Impresses Judges
The Classic Racewear – Male category was won by Richard Tulinatbitu, whose earth-toned outfit stood out for its modern tailoring and celebration of African-inspired craftsmanship.
His ensemble featured a rich brown jacket paired with matching wide-leg trousers, delivering a refined interpretation of Country Allure that blended contemporary fashion with traditional influences.
Extraordinary Millinery Takes the Spotlight
Creative headwear once again played a starring role throughout the competition.
The Exceptional Raceday Hat or Fascinator category celebrated the artistry behind race day millinery, with imaginative creations adding drama, elegance and personality to the runway.
Top honours went to Zama Nkosi, modelling a design by Zandile Masondo, whose eye-catching fascinator impressed judges with its craftsmanship and creativity.
Rewarding South Africa’s Best-Dressed
Each category winner received R5,000 in cash sponsored by Race Coast and Schweppes, together with Kryolan professional make-up vouchers and Mangwanani full body massage vouchers.
Second and third-place finishers also walked away with cash prizes courtesy of Race Coast and Schweppes, recognising the exceptional standard of creativity displayed throughout the competition.
2026 Hollywoodbets Durban July Raceday Fashion Award Winners
Exceptional Raceday Hat or Fascinator
Winner: Zama Nkosi (Model) & Zandile Masondo (Designer)
Second Place: Princess Nandi (Model) & Kwanele Mbatha (Designer)
Third Place: Kish Ramdewu
Classic Racewear – Female
Winner: Gistine Kifubula (Model) & Nqobisa Ndabeni (Designer)
Second Place: Nqobile Ngcobo
Third Place: Caitlin Edwards
Classic Racewear – Male
Winner: Richard Tulinatbitu
Second Place: Simphiwe Zulu
Third Place: Siyathemba Mazibuko
Most Striking Couple
Winner: Larnelle Maddocks & Pamela Shabane
Designer: Brenda Warring
Second Place: Nomathembu Zikhali & Ndumison Madonsela
Third Place: Andy & Lynn Ward
Fashion Remains at the Heart of Durban July
Year after year, the Hollywoodbets Durban July continues to celebrate South African creativity by providing designers, models and fashion enthusiasts with a platform to showcase exceptional talent.
This year’s Country Allure theme inspired a vibrant display of innovation, elegance and craftsmanship, demonstrating how fashion continues to be one of the defining experiences of one of South Africa’s most iconic sporting and social events.
