The bold and the bad costumes of the Miss Universe pageant

With features such as giant bird wings and mermaid tails, national costumes in the Miss Universe pageant have always been a bit hit and miss. 

Australian designers haven't shied away from brave choices, with models sporting everything from Ugg boot high heels to budgie smugglers.

Jessica Bregenhoj was chosen to design this year's Australian dress and said her creation was inspired by the Sydney Opera House, sun, desert and sand.

Miss Universe Australia Renae Ayris will wear the gown at the pageant final in Las Vegas in December.

Here we've collected some of the highlights (and lowlights) of Miss Universe national costumes from recent years.