Fashion Flu

Gosh darn it, the flu has held me down long enough and I've got to break free. Sunday night's Oscar broadcast and "Super Bowl o' fashion" was dampened by the onset of a viral plague, but it won't befall the muddy-headed fashion commentary I've been waiting a whole year to write (read at your own risk).

The Winners and the Losers
Honestly, I can't say there was one red carpet walker I felt stole the show, which is kind of a disappointment. I also can't say there was a horrid display of bad taste, which means most are getting it somewhat right, but not totally.

Here's my rundown of the B+ vote-getters in my book:

Taraji Henson - Gorgeous gown and just the right jewels, perfect hair - pretty much flawless


John Legend - Well-suited in his classic tux with a slim, modern cut


Natalie Portman - Possibly the stand-out of the night both for the color and the outfit's overall simplicity


Robert Pattinson - Yummy in all his delicious Edward Cullen-ness. A big thank you to the Academy for including him in the line up.


Mickey Rourke - An honorable mention for his originality, that's what fashion is made of folks. Plus, I adore that he loved his dog so much.

Word of the Month: Draconian

In homage to my colleague Randall and his use of this extraordinary adjective in a harmless internal meeting, the word of the month for February is draconian!

Definition: Adj. Exceedingly harsh; very severe: draconian budget cuts

If you can work draconian into a sentence at work next week, you win 100 points and my eternal friendship!

Tomorrow: Blogging on the Oscar red carpet! Big day!

Ga Ga for LA LA

Coming back from the Left Coast can be exhausting - that time change doesn't seem like much, but it hits you like a ton of bricks on your first Monday back in the real world. I'm a little overdue here, but wanted to give a quick rundown of my Top Five Los Angeles must-dos:

1. Santa Monica - Take a run in Palisades Park overlooking the beach - it's doggy and people-watching heaven. Afterwards, grab a cup of coffee at the Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf and if it's a Saturday, head on over to the farmer's market. Next time, I'm staying at the Fairmont.
2. Sushi at Sushi Katsu-ya - Yum. Spicy tuna on crispy rice, red wine. Yum.
3. Brentwood Country Mart - I'd live here if I could.
4. Drive by the Playboy Mansion - you can't see much but it's still pretty darn neat and you might see a bunny or two stumbling in...or out.
5. Rodeo Drive and beyond - any shopaholic has to at least take a gander. Have a glass of wine on Via Rodeo, watch the hordes of people and then head over to Neimans, Saks and Barney's for some real shopping.