Black tie was the order of the house at Wednesday night's annual Midwinter Ball in Canberra.
Prime Minister Julia Gillard, looking resplendent in a flesh tone Carla Zampatti gown with black overlay, set the chic tone of the evening which marked her partner Tim Mathieson's first public appearance since "Sattlergate".
Bob Katter, flanked by three minders, was one of the most sharply dressed gents of the evening in a three-piece navy lounge suit. He was sans trademark Akubra as it did not fit the strict formal dress code of the annual event.
"This is one of the most civilised events on the social calendar. Certainly one of the best and most civilised I attend. Although I do feel more at home at the uncivilised ones," he told Fairfax Media.
Julie Bishop toed the fashion and Liberal party line in an ice blue Isabel Aujoliet gown complete with ostrich feather hem - a mid length dress by a designer from her home town of Perth.
Out of towners like Australian Women's Weekly editor and avid political watcher Helen McCabe brought some European glamour thanks to her plum Hugo Boss gown. While Lachlan and Sarah Murdoch slipped in quietly through a side door.
Author and columnist Jess Rudd, in a black column frock, was a last minute guest of her father Kevin. The father and daughter team were the last to arrive.
