Head designer Richard Huisamen of the Fashion Collective said that its look for the day will be one of style and elegance. "We are going for an eclectic mix of colours and fabrics. By using contrasting prints in the same colour, we can create a mix of prints, but can keep the cut of the dress very simple." As far as hats go, Huisamen agreed that horse racing is one of the rare occasions that ladies can wear hats. Choose a one-colour hat that compliments the colour of your dress. Above all else, Huisamen's advice is to enjoy dressing up, smile and have a lot of fun!
Wayne Govender, head designer of CSquared, said that the 2016 J&B is the ideal opportunity for gentleman race-goers to dress to impress. "We have used colours that rarely blend, but stand out individually as bold, strong statement colours. " As an example, they have created colourful blazers that incorporate an exotic python print in bold pink, teal blue and sun-kissed yellow, which gives the blazer an iconic feel. This paired with an acid-washed dip-dyed silk shirt, which is inspired by the setting sun, creates a distinctive race-day look. Other blazers have also been created using a rare blend of different textures, from woven linen for the blazer and shorts to soft cotton voile with a 70s print for the shirting, an ideal interpretation of the theme. Another trendsetting style and interpretation for race day includes a typically mixed camouflaged print, but instead of the traditional authentic camo colours, bright pops of orange and red have been used to give it a real edge.
For those race-goers who prefer more of a 007 Bond Tuxedo look, a blended Classic Tuxedo-styled jacket has been designed, which has been dressed down slightly by using a strong cotton hound's-tooth lapel, a very unusual blend in the world of tailoring and one that will make a show stopper ensemble. C Squared has paired this with shorts to give it a Summery youthful feel, especially given the current Cape Town heat wave - comfort is the key.
Promoting South African fashion brands is a passion of fashion activist and lifestyle influencer Tara Johannisen, from the blog trend Soirée, who showcased some of her favourites from the talents of these local fashionistas at the media preview.
Dark Glamour Avant Garde designs from second year students Salva Dembele, Phillipa Crooks and Danmari Wege from the Design Academy of Fashion in Woodstock took the little black dress to even newer heights. Another highlight was the casual chic Asian-inspired emperor suit from Habits, for a comfortable look that would work perfectly with gladiator flats - as stylish comfort really is the key.
According to Johannisen, accessorising is the key to perfecting any look. Why not do this with unique South African jewellery, such as exquisite pieces from Miglio? Don't forget the all-important race-day accessory - sunglasses - and keep it super stylish and summery in the latest designs from Luxottica.
Of course, the ideal look for the J&B Met would, of course, not be complete without a hat. Find your perfect hat by bespoke local designer and milliner, Jacqui Kolbe from JK Millinery who has dressed many South African celebrities.
