By BBC.com

It is the highlight of the South African social calendar.

Every year, the Durban July horse race attracts thousands to the eastern city’s Greyville Racecourse – although the horses are somewhat overshadowed by the extravagant outfits.

A favourite with celebrities and politicians alike, the challenge this year was to create a timeless fashion piece, and use the elements of a watch face to inspire outfits, to fit in with the theme “It Is Time”.

You can judge how well they did in the pictures below: