Glamming up for Miss Universe contest

A large factor in having what it takes to be Miss Universe Australia is looking the part and yesterday a crop of contestants from the WA preliminary were put through their paces as they learnt how to glam up for future appearances.

Led by make-up guru Alison Jade, the beauty workshop not only focused on the basics but also tips and tricks of the trade, with the aim of helping the 2013 Miss Universe hopefuls feel confident and red-carpet ready.

East Victoria Park stunner Megan Watson, a first-time entrant to the competition, told Access All Areas she was keen to learn how to get the Miss Universe look.

"I have learnt how to put make-up on before but it's getting that right look for the competition that is really important," the 21-year-old said.

"I think the girls today will be able to show us."

Make-up artists from Alison Jade were on hand to deliver one-on-one tuition to the women, including new recruit Gabriella Batchelor, who landed her position with the company after participating in the 2012 WA preliminary.

Batchelor, 20, said knowledge of beauty was crucial to prepare for the contestants' program of appearances.

"It's so important because on the day you don't always get the attention you need from the make-up artists so you need to be able to look after yourself for these kind of events," she said.

"It definitely helped me last year."

Meanwhile, Miss Universe Australia *Renae Ayris *looks to be having the time of her life during the pre-pageant preparations in Las Vegas just over a week out from the finals.

The Connolly hopeful is already said to have bonded with some of her rivals, including her roommate, Miss USA Olivia Culpo.