Okapi x Millerner Launch Exclusive Headware and Accessories Collection For L’Ormarins King’s Plate

Fashionistas are in for a treat as South African fashion pioneer Okapi partners with Millerner for an exclusive collection of hardware, accessories and menswear that perfectly complements the regal blue and white dress theme of the L’Ormarins King’s Plate happening this Saturday, 4 January 2025 at Hollywood Bets Kenilworth Racecourse.

This collection beautifully blends luxury items with whimsical art. It also marks the third year that the two local design houses have joined forces to create stunning statement pieces inspired by one of the country’s biggest social events and racing attractions.

Regal for Raceday: What to Expect From the Okapi X Millerner Collection

Fashion enthusiasts and collectors may already be familiar with the signature hats, fascinators and bands made by Lyndon Miller of Millerner. But this year, the collection includes accessories such as silk scarves, ties, bowties, cufflinks, and boutonnières.

The range extends to menswear by Okapi, created exclusively with artwork from the Zimbabwean artist Whitney Halsted. Each piece incorporates features from a series of watercolours created by Whitney using natural Lapis Lazuli (a deep-blue semi-precious stone) foraged and hand-ground from a natural Southern African source.

The fabric prints feature the artist’s designs that depict jockeys in their blue and white silks racing Southern Africa’s typical wild beasts, cheetah, ostrich, blesbok, and of course, in honour of the partnership, the mythical Okapi.

Off to the Races: Dress to Impress at The King’s Plate

The L’Ormarins King’s Plate dates back to 1861 and holds a special place in equestrian history as South Africa’s oldest horse race event in Cape Town, with its vibrant blend of social and sporting excitement.

But it’s not only on the track the stakes are high. Every year guests find their most chic, classic and elegant blue and white outfits to vie for a chance to win the Best Dressed competitions: Ladies, Mens and Best Hat, all sponsored by Cartier.

In 2024, Tosca Griffin won Best Hat wearing none other than a Millerner x Okapi creation – a fantastical floral headpiece.

A beautiful Cartier Juste Un Cloud bracelet is the prize in all categories, while Best Dressed Woman and Best Hat receive further Cartier items like scarves and handbags; and the Best Dressed Man is awarded Cartier cufflinks and a covetable Santos de Cartier ballpoint pen.

South African Fashion Pioneers

Named after the elusive antelope otherwise known as the ‘African Unicorn, Okapi draws inspiration from Africa’s mystique, enchantment, and the natural environment in the creation of its range of luxury handbags and lifestyle products. They pride themselves on the use of ethically sourced exotic leathers like ostrich alongside regionally sourced cowhides, fostering local craftmanship and empowering South African artists and communities. Products are designed and made exclusively in South Africa using ethically and sustainably sourced South African materials.

Born in the heart of Johannesburg, Millerner was created by Lyndon Miller whose craftsmanship stands out in every bespoke piece of haute couture headwear. Staying true to locally crafted products, all pieces are handmade and beautifully handcrafted design using only the finest materials.