ALL things glamorous and "over-the-top" are expected to dominate at the Durban July race.

Dubbed "Africa's greatest horse racing event", this prestigious affair is always one not to be missed on the South African fashion calendar.

The event's fashion programme director, Tiffany Prior, says the horse racing and fashion aspects of the day are intertwined.

"I don't think the Vodacom Durban July would be the same event without the fashion. People love dressing up," she says.

As usual, the most celebrated South Africandesigners will be part of the Invited Designer Showcase. This elite panel of designers will showcase their designs on the main stage on Saturday.

This year's list of invited designers includes Andre Martin, Brenda Quinn, Colleen Eitzen, David Tlale, Gideon, Leigh Schubert, Suzaan Heyns and Zama Mathe.

Durban-based designer Schubert, believes the fashion element is what draws the large crowds to the event.

"A large group of people, who are not really interested in horse racing will attend the event because it gives them a chance at dressing up and making a fashion statement," Schubert says.

This year's fashion theme, "Material World", places emphasis on the fashion industry moving in a more "green" direction and using eco-friendly and sustainable fashion methods and fibres.