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A Day at the Races: The 2025 L'Ormarins King's Plate

The 2025 horse racing season has officially begun. The much anticipated L'Ormarins King's Plate is an annual event that kicks off the horse racing calender and took place on the 4th of January at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth. The blue and white themed occasion offers attendees the opportunity to showcase their fabulous ensembles and eye-catching fascinators while observing the equestrian display .

Fashion has always been synonymous with horse racing and this year was no exception. The guests were ready to show up and show off their curated looks and were vying for the coveted best dressed prizes. The criteria is a mix of interesting, chic and sophisticated looks that embraces the traditional horse racing scene. An exciting array of fascinators were on display and for many it was the focal point of their looks.

This year’s female winner was Christine Vermaak who wore a beautiful silk dress in a blue and white hue from South African Designer Sindiso Khumalo paired with an Okapi x Millerner headpiece. Christine reflected on her win by stating, "It was so exciting to be nominated and an incredible honour to win best dressed at the L’Ormarins King’s Plate! It means a lot to be recognised, and the exposure for the designers is wonderful."

Photographer: Karen Winter- Best Dressed winner Christine Vermaak wearing South African Designer Sindiso Khumalo

The Best Dressed title for men was Ryan Burks, representing America, while Gaby Mengstab won recognition for Best Hat with her beautifully crafted artisanal headpiece.The generous prizes of jewellery and accessories were supplied by luxury jewellers Cartier.

The ultimate highlight of the day was the race for the R3 million prize pot, where One Stripe, bred by Drakenstein Stud and ridden by jockey Gavin Lerena, and trained by Vaughan Marshall, emerged as the victor.

Below are some pics of the stylish guests in attendance at the prestigious event.

Photographer: Karen Winter
Photographer: Karen Winter
Photographer: Karen Winter
Photographer: Karen Winter
Photographer: Karen Winter

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