Body type may be more key than many of the things i mentioned.
American Orps are smaller bodied tighter feathered I think. English are broader and fluffier.. I THINK.
Folks who show.. keep their birds separate from the flock a period before showing to keep feathers in peak condition. The hard core show folks even plan their hatches accordingly, to have their birds at a specific age for nationals and such with regards to plumage, etc! Joining a specific breed club can bring immense value.. if have interest in the ins and outs of a certain breed. Many may let you read their forums without joining.
13 weeks means many more mini molts on the way to maturity and funky looking feathering meanwhile is normal.
Show value/quality.. really depends on how many other competitors there are in the same class/breed. I believe non recognized colors can be shown in "any other class" and if having a standard proposed would want to stick with the correct term regarding lav/self blue, etc.
I haven't seen any shows going forward with Covid.. or ever shown or even been to a live show yet, making my show knowledge/experience very little and second hand at best.. But still excited to learn about it as well, because you just never know what adventure awaits!
