Best Dressed Celebrities at the 2025 Hollywoodbets Durban July
The 2025 Hollywoodbets Durban July was more than just a horse race — it was a fashion odyssey, a celebration of storytelling through style, and a love letter to South Africa’s cultural richness. This year’s theme, “Marvels of Mzansi,”inspired bold, soulful, and visually stunning looks that turned the red carpet into a runway of heritage, nature, and power.
Here are the celebs who left jaws dropped and timelines buzzing:
Mawhoo: Drenched in Blue Boldness
Mawhoo arrived in a daring blue see-through gown that shimmered like a waterfall under the Durban sun. Ethereal yet powerful, the look captured both sensuality and strength — a masterclass in owning your skin, your roots, and your moment. With intricate beadwork and glistening textures, Mawhoo’s dress was less of a garment and more of a statement: freedom can be transparent, and femininity can roar.
Lisa Missouri: Earth Goddess Realness
Lisa Missouri turned heads in a rich brown sculpted ensemble, evoking the earthy magic of the Blyde River Canyon. With textured layers and flowing fabric, her look echoed ancient rock formations, sun-scorched cliffs, and timeless beauty. She sealed the moment with a caption:
“A Marvel of Mzansi — The Blyde River Canyon.”
A true embodiment of elegance carved from the land itself.
Thando Thabethe: A Floral Love Letter
Thando Thabethe bloomed in a “flower tree” look that turned fashion into poetry. Each petal, branch, and silhouette told a story — one of love, land, and longing. Her powerful caption painted the picture:
“A love letter to South Africa’s soul — where valleys cradle winding rivers, mountains rise in quiet majesty, and the sky bursts into purple and orange at sunset. Inspired.”
More than a look — it was a tribute to home.
Anele Zondo: Heritage, Woven Bold
Anele Zondo brought ancestral pride to life in a striking outfit inspired by traditional African mats. From the geometric weaving to the earthy tones, her dress honored African craftsmanship and storytelling.
Her caption:
“She marvels… her heritage, her rich culture & surroundings — all woven.”
It was raw, regal, and refreshingly rooted in authenticity.
Sithelo: Fearless in Feathers
Sithelo took flight in a bird-blue feathered gown that felt both avant-garde and fiercely African. Channelling the spirit of the Indwe bird, her outfit was a symbol of courage and resilience.
“Indwe — every feather a war cry in the glory of a fearless nation.”
It was a look that soared — elegant yet militant, soft yet commanding.
Eva Modika: Baobab Beauty
Eva Modika stunned in a tree-inspired dress that wrapped her figure like vines clinging to the trunk of a mighty baobab. Deep greens and woody browns met sculptural elements, making her one with nature.
Her words completed the moment:
“Strong and resilient — like the baobab tree from the heart of Africa.”
She was grounded, powerful, and nothing short of majestic.
🏆
A Celebration of More Than Fashion
This year’s best-dressed list wasn’t just about who looked good — it was about who made us feel, who told stories, and who reminded us what it means to marvel at Mzansi.
From roots to rivers, feathers to flowers — these women brought the land, the legends, and the love of South Africa to life.
And honestly? We’re still not over it.
