Red Carpet in the Time of COVID

Without the usual red carpet awards shows, like the Oscars and the Tonys, I've been missing writing up red carpet reviews during this pandemic. But never fear! I have discovered a red carpet event that I have somehow missed over the years: The Sydney Royal Easter Show. Doesn't sound like much, does it - until you see the models. 

They're ducks. 

Yes, ducks. Very fashionable ducks.

Since I have never covered this event, there are a number of years of photographs that I can draw from. So put on your seat belts, because we're in for a bumpy night!

As I frequently do with human celebrities, I shall break down the fashions by category. 

Florals

 

This lovely Wedgewood blue frock with its lace trim is delicate and feminine, but the "shirtfront" style and double collar brings in just enough masculinity to stop it from being frilly. The double buttons are a lovely detail, and the extra pop of bright blue tulle around the hat brim draws the eyes to the wearer's face. This is a look that is likely to be copied by fashionable ducks everywhere. 

The sunflower print on this trio of casual sundresses brings a welcome note of cheeriness to the proceedings. The saucy black ruffs at the neck tone down the yellow nicely while adding just a hint of formality. It's a bit of a risk to wear such an informal style amidst the more formal satins worn by other celebriducks, but these three pull it off with aplomb.   

This mixed florals-and-solid ensemble uses a stylish cape and figure-flattering pleats to separate itself from the more traditional looks in this category. The green piping across the bust squares the shoulders nicely while also emphasizing the gracefully long neck of the wearer. The daring waist-high slit of the skirt adds a sexy element to an otherwise conservative look. Nicely done. 

Ethnic-Inspired

At the risk of being accused of cultural appropriation, this pair of elegant ladies sports matching purple and red kimonos spangled with gold flecks throughout. The slight flare from the waist breaks up the silhouette, creating a flattering line. The only addition I might make to these lovely outfits might be a coordinating paper parasol. 

Interesting textures and a scandalously short skirt call attention to this unusual middle Eastern inspired look. The hint of masculinity of the fez-style hat offsets the show of leg, and the floor-length train falling from the natural waist creates a graceful silhouette. An interesting juxtaposition of angles and softness that shouldn't work, but that somehow does.  

Satins

This lime-green look stands out for more than just its color; the ruched front, the double rows of gold braid up the bodice, the gold inset at the front of the skirt, and the capelets from each shoulder all add wonderful, eye-catching details that set it apart from the parade of other satin gowns. 

Red is always a popular color on the red carpet, but this look goes above and beyond with its flared, pantaloon-style skirt and long narrow collar with asymmetrical zig-zag trim and square-shouldered capelet. Its unique silhouette sets it apart without being too avant garde. 

Wearing a full-on wedding gown complete with veil could not be pulled off by just any duck, but this lovely lady does it well. Opting for an ivory satin bodice with softly draped neckline, but adding accents of pure white ruffles at the neck and white lace trim at the edges of the long train and overlapping peplum emphasizes her lily-white complexion, and sets off her naturally golden feet and beak beautifully. An excellent example of coordinating the gown and the wearer.

Pinks 

Pepto Bismol pink is a daring choice for anyone who's not a Barbie doll, but these ladies chose to set off their dark complexions with vivid pink accented with charmingly retro black-and-white checked trim at the collar, across the bust, along the edge of the train, and in pert little pocket flaps. The three tiny buttons down the neck provide just the right contemporary note. 

Embarrassingly similar to the wedding gown shown previously, this traditional style pale-pink dress leans too heavily on pleats and ruffles for visual interest. A simpler silhouette might have been more dramatic and more flattering, but instead this look reminds one of a partly-melted wedding cake. The maribou trim on the hat, however, is beyond perfection. 

The Men

I would be remiss if I did not include these fashionable drakes along with the ladies. Their hats are simply perfect, and the combination of sleeveless, short-fronted vests with long split tailcoats gives traditional formalwear a refreshing update. Well done, gents!

All in all, I'd say that this red carpet event rivals any human event I've ever seen. With only one fashion fail in the bunch, the ducks come out ahead in the human vs. duck fashion competition. I look forward to the next animal-human couture matchup!