Jaws hit the floor when Miss Universe Australia strutted down the runway in New Orleans over the weekend in a stunning watercolour cape.
The fashion statement was designed by esteemed Bobbi Lockyer.
The single mum designed the cape specifically for Monique Riley Schroeder, an actress, women's boxing coach and Australia's 2022 Miss Universe contender.
Even though they're from different worlds, the pair have forged a friendship and used their platforms to pay a powerful homage to female strength.
Miss Australia, Monique Riley walks onstage during the 71st Miss Universe preliminary competition at New Orleans Morial Convention Centre. Credit: Josh Brasted/Getty Images
A dedication to powerful women
Planning for the show-stopping moment began months ago.
Ms Schroeder made the first move, sliding into Ms Lockyer's messages on Instagram.
They then linked up over zoom and got to know each other, discussing ideas for the showstopping cloak.
It was in this conversation that the pair found common ground: their love and admiration for the strength of women.
"I really admire Monique and her strength," Ms Lockyer told NITV.
"I knew I wanted a theme of strength in my artwork. Then she shared with me her passion for boxing and self-defence and her passion for women's empowerment.
"She really gave me creative control, [and] told me that I could do whatever I wanted in whatever colours."
Pilbara woman, Bobbi Lockyer, created the eye-catching cape worn by Miss Universe Australia in New Orleans. Source: Supplied
Ms Lockyer melted wax in her slow cooker, which she then painted onto fabric.
From there she used inks for colour, salt for texture and white fabric paint to accentuate the pattern which features the Australian night sky and kangaroo tracks.
The kangaroo was a very important element for Ms Lockyer.
"The kangaroo represents strength but also power. I knew I had to put it in there," she said.
"It relates to boxing, and it is so iconic for Australia."
Miss Australia, Monique Riley walks onstage during the 71st Miss Universe preliminary competition in New Orleans wearing the cape created by Ngarluma, Kariyarra, Nyulnyul and Yawuru artist Bobbi Lockyer. Credit: Josh Brasted/Getty Images
"It was just really exciting for me to see that out there, and to be able to share that message - it's both Monique's and my message," she said.
"It's our message you know, about women and that inner strength we all have.
Ms Schroeder impressed at the New Orleans competition, being picked as a semi-finalist, but was pipped at the post by Miss United States.
