At the heart of this year’s Durban July is a powerful creative collaboration. Acclaimed fashion designer Orapeleng Modutle, celebrated actress Linda Mtoba, and television producer Teddy Geldart have joined forces with Don Julio to create a bespoke fashion moment that celebrates individuality, craftsmanship, and South African excellence.
For Orapeleng Modutle, the partnership feels natural. “The Durban July has always been a platform where fashion tells a story beyond clothing,” he says. “Partnering with Don Julio felt incredibly natural because we share a commitment to intentional craftsmanship. Every detail has purpose, and this year’s creation celebrates modern African luxury with timeless elegance.”
His approach to designing for the Durban July differs from his ready-to-wear collections. “The aim is to always follow the brief while thinking creatively and interpreting the theme in a way that aligns with the nature of the event and our brand’s current narrative,” he explains. “The Durban July provides a platform for us to showcase our talent, demonstrate innovation through design, and tell compelling stories that reflect both the event’s theme and our brand identity.”
Linda Mtoba brings her signature sophistication to the collaboration. “Fashion is about confidence, storytelling, and celebrating who you are,” she says. “Working alongside Orapeleng and Don Julio has been incredibly special because there is genuine care behind every detail. People can expect a celebration of creativity, elegance, and unforgettable moments.”
For Teddy Geldart, authenticity is everything. “Durban July already has its own DNA. It’s loud, it’s proud, it’s ours, and that’s the brief,” he states. “My job isn’t to make it palatable for someone sitting in Paris or Milan. My job is to make sure we show up so fully as ourselves that Paris and Milan can’t look away.”
He adds, referencing Karl Lagerfeld: “Trendy is the last stage before tacky. Global luxury doesn’t want a copy of itself. It wants the real thing. And the real thing, for us, is the July exactly as it is.”
For Don Julio, the Durban July represents the next chapter in a broader cultural journey. Cebisa Luzipho, Culture Manager for Don Julio South, West & Central Africa at Diageo, explains the brand’s strategy: “The overarching cultural strategy for Don Julio in South Africa is to establish the brand as the ultimate symbol of luxury reward and monumental celebrations, deeply embedded in culturally defining moments.”
She continues: “Instead of chasing superficial trends, we align ourselves with our core philosophy of ‘Por Amor’ (For Love), celebrating creators, tastemakers, and cultural architects who possess an exceptional devotion to their craft. Don Julio positions itself not just as a premium spirit but as the well-deserved reward for true substance, passion, and dedication.”
From The Don’s Table to the Durban July, Don Julio continues to create experiences where artistry is not only celebrated but revered. As anticipation builds for the 2026 event, one thing is clear: this is luxury, South African style.
