Oz grid girls get 'Wonder Woman' look for 2002.

The 2002 Foster's Australian Grand Prix Grid Girl outfits were today unveiled by their designer, Mark Burnett, of the Princess Highway fashion label.

Burnett, who shot to fame in 1998 after outfitting Kylie Minogue, is best known for his retro-inspired designs.

His work for the Foster's Grid Girl outfits continues along the same vein.

''We wanted outfits that were bold but also fun and chic,'' Burnett said of the Foster's Grid Girl designs.

In addition to the grid girl uniforms, Burnett was also commissioned to design outfits for the team of Foster's trackside dancers who will add colour and movement during the Grand Prix event's pre-race entertainment.

According to Lisa Martini, public relations, Foster's Brewing International: ''We appointed Princess Highway to create the grid girl outfits for the 2002 Foster's Australian Grand Prix because we were impressed by his style, especially his glamorous designs with a 70s influence.''

''We felt Princess Highway reflected some of the characteristics of Foster's Formula One Grand Prix - young, glamorous, international, exciting and leading edge. We're sure the 350 million viewers worldwide will agree.''

'Wonder Woman' feel:

The Foster's Grid Girls' outfits are made from a matt lycra. Its short A-line dress with plunging neckline and high back was inspired by beauty pageants and cheerleaders, while its shaped armbands and visor give the outfit a 70s retro 'Wonder Woman' feel.

The dancers' outfit is Grecian inspired, a flowing dress made out of printed georgette to complement the heraldic theming of the pre-Grand Prix event entertainment.

With the Australian Grand Prix being the first race on the 2002 Formula One racing calendar, Burnett's designs are destined to forge the direction of the grid girl outfits for the remainder of the season.

Style & Direction:

Burnett, who was awarded Young Designer of the Year at the 1999 Australian Mercedes Fashion Week, believes the Foster's Grid Girl outfits reflect Princess Highway's style and direction.

''Designing the 2002 Foster's Australian Grand Prix outfits has been a great experience. Each style represents a particular Princess Highway look,'' he said.

Burnett also designed the outfits for the Foster's corporate hostesses who will work at the event plus outfits for Krista Vendy, the Face of Foster's for the 2002 Foster's Australian Grand Prix.

''The corporate hostess style is simply elegant with a low halter neck dress and a long, asymmetrical skirt with a split in the side and is made from a viscose jersey.''

''We've also produced numerous outfits for Krista Vendy to wear during her ambassadorial role as the Face of Foster's, including urban wear for the party circuit and a stunning gown for the Foster's Australian Grand Prix Ball,'' Burnett said.