Durban July 2023: Fashion inspiration from the stars

It's that time of the year again when the who's who of South Africa descend on Durban for a stylish day at the races. 

The Hollywoodbets Durban July is taking place on Saturday, July 1.  The theme for this year's event is 'Out Of This World'. 

"Fashion is the thread that connects our horseracing fans and our social revellers. It is what defines the event every year, as everyone attending is dressed to the nines. The theme is what kickstarts everything and this year I can’t wait to see how our designers and the public go above and beyond to bring the message to life," Gold Circle's Stephen Marshall said in a statement. 

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The theme is also accompanied by a poem, which will no doubt help some people get those creative juices flowing.

The heavens at night,
Purple skyglow, almost black.
The full moon so bright,
Wispy clouds seem laidback.

The planets in deeper space,
Vista pin-pricked by stars.
Spot one with an amber glow,
Could that be Mars?

Other planets out there,
Inspiringly colourful too.
Your imagination will run wild,
Focus on one that suits you.

Now come down to Earth,
Fashion, fun and entertainment,
And the latest equine millionaire.

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

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Based on previous events, we can expect many hits and an equal amount of misses! There will no doubt be a few extraterrestrial-inspired looks, lots of colour, and even more sparkle. 

Here's some inspiration from the stars for your last-minute Durban July 2023 outfits. 

Durban July 2023 outfit ideas: Semi-sheer

Sheer is one of the biggest fashion trends of 2023, with Vogue magazine describing the trend as "sexy, subversive, and powerful". Stars such as Pearl Thusi, Ciara, Gabriella Union, and Kendall Jenner have been rocking the sheer trend. 

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Durban July 2023 outfit ideas: Metallics 

Metallic colours are also a big trend this year. Expect to see a lot of copper, gold, and silver on the Hollywoodbets Durban July 2023 red carpet. You can add metallics to accessories, shoes, dresses and pants - the options are endless. 

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Durban July 2023 outfit ideas: All-purple everything

Keep it on brand, by dressing up in all-purple. The colour has also been associated with extraterrestrial life. According to Live Science, research found that "the first life on Earth might have had a lavender hue". 

Durban July 2023 outfit ideas: Alien-like sunglasses

Come rain or shine, you can bet your last R100 that many people will be rocking alien-like shades to the Durban July. Kanye West caused a stir with his futuristic Yeezy sunglasses. Kim Kardashian and South African-born model Candice Swanepoel were pictured wearing the shades. 

Durban July 2023 outfit ideas: Astronaut fashion

From spacesuits to astronaut helmets, many men will ditch their boring black suits and embrace "out of this world" space-inspired fashion. A lot of women will also add a touch of drama to their looks by incorporating dramatic headpieces. 

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Durban July 2023 outfit ideas: Asymmetrical lines 

You can also dress up as an ice princess from Uranus or Neptune. Put a futuristic or unusual spin on the average princess gown by using asymmetrical necklines, sleeves, and hemlines. 

Main image credit: Instagram/@kimkardashian

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