Former Miss Universe Zozibini Tunzi with Mzukisi Mbane, the designer behind Imprint ZA at the Hollywoodbets Durban July 2026.
Image: Alyssia Birjalal
The Hollywoodbets Durban July has always been more than just a horse race; it is Africa's premier stage where high-stakes sport and fashion intersect.
This year, as Greyville Racecourse embraces the rustic elegance of the "Country Allure" theme, one of the day's standout fashion moments belongs to Miss Universe 2019 Zozibini Tunzi.
Tunzi unveiled a custom couture gown by Mzukisi Mbane, the designer behind Imprint ZA.
The striking red creation formed part of Colgate's Purple Allure campaign, which explores the relationship between confidence, self-expression and personal style.
While the gown draws inspiration from the textures, landscapes and heritage associated with this year's "Country Allure" theme, Mbane approached the brief from a more personal perspective.
Rather than creating a literal interpretation, the design was intended to reflect the personality of the woman wearing it, with every detail crafted to complement Tunzi's signature sense of confidence and elegance.
Speaking at the Hollywoodbets Durban July, Mbane reflected on designing for one of South Africa's most recognisable global figures.
"We celebrate South Africa and who we are. And with Zozi it was a beautiful and easy collaboration," said Mbane.
"I kind of had an idea of what I wanted to put her in and it was so effortless in a sense that when she saw the ideas, she gravitated towards them."
For Tunzi, who has consistently challenged conventional beauty standards throughout her career, the collaboration aligned with a message she has long championed: confidence begins from within.
Speaking on the red carpet, she described how the vibrant colours of the gown reflected the emotions she hoped to convey.
"Wearing this makes me feel really beautiful. Bright colours are truly a representation of what you are feeling on the inside," she said.
"Being bold and bright and being able to reflect that with this bright red outfit."
While the competition extends the campaign beyond race day, Tunzi's appearance at Greyville served as another reminder of the Hollywoodbets Durban July's unique role as a platform where fashion, storytelling and South African creativity come together alongside one of the country's biggest horse racing events.