Cape Town - The red carpet was rolled out at Parliament on Tuesday for the second time this year to welcome dignitaries, government officials and entertainers ahead of President Zuma's State of the Nation Address.
While the majority of the guests chose modern clothes from the rack, others had their outfits specially made for them. A popular choice for women was colourful traditional clothes donned with fur and feathers, while the men looked dapper in well tailored suits, such as Mmusi Maimane who wore a slim fitting Fabiani suit.
DA's Ansie Smit braved the chill in a backless dress that showed off her henna tattoo the shape of the Africa.
The Premier opted for a gold and black sparkly jacket and black skirt number, which was a change from the bold traditional wear she favoured during her election campaign. She bought the outfit in a Hermanus vintage shop over the weekend. “It's comfortable and warm,” she said.
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF] MPs and their leader Julius Malema showed up in red overalls and hardhats.
Mvezo chief and ANC MP Mandla Mandela and his wife Nodiyala [CORR] showed up in matching traditional Xhosa attire.
Mandela said their outfits they are flying the flag for his grandfather, Nelson Mandela and Mvezo, his homestead.