Doing day drag

The minute the sun decides to show its face, the community comes out in full force. Luncheons, picnics, parties, cocktails and last weekend the annual Food and Wine Fair.

At some point a showgirl will be asked to do the dreaded day drag.

Leaving the comfort of dim lighting and smoke machines, that arch nemesis direct sunlight transforms your beautiful face into a terracotta pot — like a Papua New Guinean clay man in a pretty dress and hair.

How do I get through a day event? Are there any tricks to make the day more comfortable?

When it comes to make-up, I try to keep it small. A smoky eye translates well, and there’s less maintenance if it starts dripping southwards.

I sweat like a crazy person when I’m in day drag, even on the mildest days. I end up looking like I’ve been sprayed down with a hose, so I always take a hand towel. If you’re careful dabbing, your make-up won’t move.

Nothing beats a huge pair of sunglasses, something that can cover from above the eyebrows to mid-cheek — be prepared to touch up if you remove them. Smaller eyelashes will need to be worn.

When it comes to outfits, it can be tricky. I try to stay away from corsets. There is nothing worse than being trussed up like a Christmas turkey in the blazing heat. A big flowing gown that moves in the breeze is ideal. If you’re lucky enough to have a breeze, you can swish it around to get the air circulating or roll it up.

If you are on stage, you need to be careful. Last year I hosted the main stage at the Food and Wine Fair. Under strict instructions from Ms Claire de Lune I wasn’t allowed to wear anything too racy. I decided on a fabulous rainbow flowing gown. At the end of the day, Claire came backstage and announced, “Darling, beautiful dress, but a little bit see-through in the sunlight.” Oops!

As for shoes — as soon as there is a little sunlight, most showgirls jump into cork wedges. I did it once, and felt like I was standing on top of Milo cans, so I usually stick with my normal heels. If there is grass I walk on my toes.

Being an unreal girl, wearing unreal outfits, you may have an unreal smell about you. Take deodorant with you as well as fragrance, or you can look like a pretty flower and smell like the manure it’s growing in.