CHRISTOPHER Ditsas, 32, of South Hurstville, is one of four finalists who will get the chance to have their design on the world stage at the 2014 Miss Universe pageant.
Chris, an Enmore Design Centre graduate, made it through to the finals of the Elucent Skincare National Costume Competition.
He also designed Las Vegas-style showgirl costumes for a Sydney illusionist and for several musical productions.
But Chris put side aside his sewing machine for a few years because of the economic downturn and began working as a chef.
Now he is picking up where he left off, with the aim of becoming a full-time theatre costume designer.
"I've got my energy, drive, and passion back," he said. "And I really liked the sound of representing our country."
His creation was inspired by a fusion of Australiana.
"My costume displays a kind of playfulness that is present in the Australian spirit," he said.
"It's a little bit cheeky with a little — well, quite a bit of — leg showing.
"There are sharp, hard lines present in the structure of the dress, representing the sometimes severe and harsh heat conditions.
"I brought together two opposing elements — the shape of corrugated iron, which is very specific to the Australian landscape of tin sheds and roofs, and I chose to use our beautiful native blooms and put them together.
"These flowers not only grow in spite of the climate but thrive in it which is a lovely symbol of the Australian people, who are hardy and determined."
The winning costume will be seen by more than four billion people at the pageant final in Florida in December.
The public has the chance to vote for their favourite by 10am tomorrow, October 3: http://yhoo.it/1vq5UJG
'Ocsober' ambassador
SUTHERLAND Shire surfer and model Laura Andon is the 2014 NSW ambassador for "Ocsober" — a challenge that aims to encourage people to give up alcohol in October.
The campaign supports Life Education, Australia's largest non-government drug and health education provider for children.
This year the focus is will power; for 31 days, young Australians are urged to give up a drink or two.
Ms Andon, who is a qualified teacher of physical education and health, said the idea was to help educate youth to make informed, safe decisions about drinking.
"October is a month where the weather starts to get warmer and the festivities begin," she said.
Details: ocsober.com.au