Every February thousands of South Africans don eye-catching outfits and flock to the J&B Met horse race in Cape Town. Once the preserve of the white elite during apartheid, the event now draws people from all backgrounds. (Text and photos by BBC's Kate Forbes)
The race also attracts a growing number of people from neighbouring countries, like Zimbabwean model Victor Mathe. But "South Africans still dominate the best-dressed crowd", he commented at Saturday's event.
Fashion designers attend the event to spot trends and gain ideas for their collections.
Some push the boundaries in the hope of winning one of the day's most important races - the best-dressed couple competition.
This year's competition theme was "Made to Conquer". Participants were encouraged to wear creations showcasing the concepts of determination and victory.
Teacher Ritza Van Rensburg had her hat custom-made for the event. "If you don't make an effort here, you might as well not come," she said.
For many, the horse race is irrelevant. "I've got to admit I've no idea how the betting works," said 18-year-old designer Lee Kotze. "I'm just here to dress up and show off."
Cape Town local Olwethu Klaas wore this extravagant creation. "You have to be bold and brilliant, you can't just turn up wearing your graduation dress," she explained.
In the end, Xolisa Figlan and Peggy Nosiphiwa managed to outshine their competition. The lucky couple won a trip to Mauritius as part of the prize package.
