Fashion expectations at the SOPA 2019
We preview tomorrow's SOPA red carpet moments. Will the dress code be dashing or drab?
![](https://images.caxton.co.za/wp-content/uploads/sites/45/2019/02/Untitled-design-1.png)
Politicians and other invited guests will pull out all the stops to make sure they look the part on the red carpet at the State Of the Province Address (Sopa) tomorrow.
Here are five people to look out for on the red carpet this year, who never disappoint:
1. Gabisile Shabalala – always elegant
2. Lucia Ochan – considering the dress she wore at the State of the Nation Address, she will definitely turn heads
3. Desmond Moela – he never disappoints with a fresh and clean look
4. Norah Mahlangu – one of the consistent MECs when it comes to Sopa red carpet fashion
5. Billy Brown – he’s confident and always has surprises in store.
The dos and don’ts on the red carpet :
• Wearing a tight-fitting or revealing outfit is a big no.
• Please avoid chewing gum. It really makes one look lost and ridiculous.
• If you know you cannot walk in heels, wear flat shoes.
• Smile for the cameras please. We know you own iPhones, so there is absolutely no need to fiddle with them while walking on the red carpet, especially when seeing journalists.
• Remember to walk on, not on the side of the red carpet.
Tips from local designers:
• Angelique Designs, in collaboration with Jessy M, will dress the MEC for culture, sport and recreation, Thandi Shongwe. Nomsa Mazibuko of Angelique said guests should be glamorous on the red carpet tomorrow. “Attendees should dress to impress in Hollywood style or red carpet glam. “Try something a bit dramatic with elegance.
“If there are laces, do something different with it. Add some lightweight feathers and contrasting colours. Otherwise play with colours and mixed textured fabrics, but remember to keep it elegant to maintain the red carpet look.”
• Jessy M – “People should honour the event and dress appropriately. It’s a glamorous event and one needs to make an effort. Lastly, Heritage Month is in September, where you get to dress in traditional attire for a month. However if you decide to wear a traditional outfit, glam it up!”
• Eulanda Nompumelelo of Nompumelelo Designs – “Their outfits, make-up and accessories are must-haves on the red carpet. People should also choose the right outfits to compliment their body shapes. Dress up, show up and take beautiful pictures.”