Stunning design pieces vied with equally magnificent race horses for attention at the 2024 World Sports Betting Cape Town MET, held in Cape Town on Saturday, 27 January.
The event, hosted at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth, featured eight of South Africa’s best-known designers in a showcase convened by fashion king Gavin Rajah. Drawing on the event theme of “Cape Splendour” for inspiration, the work was displayed throughout the day. Rajah, whose creations were also on display, believes that the event lived up to its reputation as one of the country’s most iconic fashion calendar moments.
“The MET has led the pack in terms of what fashion is. It has always been about refined craftsmanship. It also has a historical precedent for supporting fashion in the country and is an event that has developed fashion and young fashion designers,” he said. “It’s a celebration of not just the racing, but of a wonderful range of South African talent, ranging from established to emerging fashion designers. An event like the World Sports Betting Cape Town MET is so important for creating opportunities and visibility for designs. It’s been amazing to host designers from across the country and I am very proud to be associated with this event.”
Featured designers included Sipho Mbuto, Stephen van Eeden, Ephymol’s Ephraim Molingoane and Thula Sindi. Rajah, based in Cape Town, has exhibited internationally and is known for his handcrafted luxurious garments, made with the finest fabrics and attention to detail. Rajah is also a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador and an advocate for women's and children’s rights.
Elements of the fashion on show at the 2024 World Sports Betting Cape Town MET focused on sustainability, an initiative that is particularly relevant to Hollywoodbets Kenilworth and Cape Racing. “You have got the Kenilworth Racecourse Conservation Area adjacent to the course, which emphasises environmental sustainability,” says Rajah. Part of the 2024 World Sports Betting Cape Town MET tradition is the social event’s best-dressed man and woman competition, with cash prizes and more for grabs for the most spectacular ensemble.The judging panel included Rajah and fellow designers Stephen Van Eeden and Craig Port.
One of those competing for the “best-dressed” title was Hacjivah Dayimani, DHL Stormers forward and fashionista. “The MET is very important for fashion, particularly for young up-and-coming designers who want to showcase their talent. People come here to express themselves and it is a great space for South Africans to come together and unite as one, to showcase fashion,” he said. “Every year you see something unique that you’ve never seen before, and I use it as a place to showcase things that have never been done before.”
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