Fashion and the J&B MET go hand in hand

It is undoubtedly Cape Town’s most highly anticipated social event annually, and this year on January 30^th, will most certainly be no different.

In honour of the brand, its unique heritage and valued legacy, the theme for the 2016 J&B™ Met is “A Rare Blend”, a celebration of the unexpected coming together of difference parts to create something rare.

For those race goers who might still be uncertain about what to wear, advice from three South African fashion enthusiasts might be all that is needed. Their individual interpretations of what this theme means to each of them as well as ideas around the use of different styles and textures was showcased at the recent J&B Met™ Media Preview Launch held at Kenilworth.

Head Designer Richard Huisamen from the Fashion Collective says that their 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 agrees that horseracing 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 from CSquared, says that the 2016 J&B™ is the ideal opportunity for gentleman racegoers 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 which 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 70’s print for the shirting, an ideal interpretation of the theme. Another trend setting 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 racegoers who prefer more of a 007 Bond Tuxedo look on J&B™ Met Day, 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 for a show stopper ensemble. C Squared has paired this with shorts to give it a summery youthful feel, especially given the current Cape Town heatwave – comfort is 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 at this year’s J&B™ Met – as stylish comfort really is key.

According to Tara, accessorising is 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 – sun glasses – 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 a milliner, Jacqui Kolbe from JK Millinery who has dressed many South African celebrities.

In the words, of trend Soirée, life is nothing but a Soirée so do it in fine style this Summer at the J&B™ Met, “a Rare Blend” this coming January.

COMPETITION:

To celebrate this fantastic event, The Citizen – together with J&B – is giving away what can only be described as a 2016 Met dream. Trust us, you don’t want to miss out on this one.