The Oscars!
De-Glitzing the Biggest Night in Hollywood

By Irene Michaels
March 1, 2009

While the nation is engulfed in an economic crisis and Hollywood is enduring painful layoffs and cutbacks, the theme this year was "have a party but not too WOW" - be sensitive to what's going on in the world while we celebrate the Oscar nominees. Although there were parties aplenty, it is worthy to note that Parmount, Warner Bros and Hollywood's quintessential Oscar party guy Ed Lamato held no celebrations at all.

The whole vibe around the Oscars this year was different. Dresses and jewelry were more understated and everyone seemed genuinely supportive of each other - real people caring and pulling for each other. They were also very generous with the fans, giving handshakes, warm smiles and (yikes!) actually making small talk.

Irene Michael's wardrobe and jewelry courtesy of LuLu's at Belle Kay Chicago

Of course, there are always exceptions. Dress designer Valentino was visibly and audibly out of sorts that evening. Perhaps it was because so few of the stars were wearing his dresses??? Perhaps he should consider a line of ready to wear.

WHAT DO YOU KNOW??!! Most think when we see stars on the Red Carpet during the Oscars, that they are actually at the awards. Not necessarily so. Most of the people in the audience are nominees, their families and friends. But there are lots and lots of "viewing" parties that night, and many of the celebs that are being interviewed, photographed and videotaped are at THOSE parties. Like the party Madonna and Demi Moore hosted at super agent Guy Oseary's home. It also seemed like every star who ever won an Oscar brought it along because everywhere you looked, there was an Oscar displayed on a table.

Jason Binn, CEO and Founder of Niche Media

Or Elton John's big bash for his AIDS Foundation which was held at the Pacific Design Center. Last year, the event raised over $5 million! Interesting to know what kind of money he raised this time., don't you think? Times are tough! The first big party held for Oscar nominees and winners is the Governors Ball, which follows the awards ceremony at the Kodak Theater. Cocktails, no big food.

The next is the famous Vanity Fair party held this year at the Sunset Tower. Here's where everyone can finally take a deep breath, take a big sip of champagne and talk to one another about the evenings events.

LET'S NOT FORGET THE PRE-OSCAR PARTIES.On Saturday, Barry Diller and is wife Diane Von Furstenberg had an annual luncheon on their estate in Beverly Hills, this year honoring Vanity Fair editor Graydon Carter. It really was a fun day. The luncheon consisted of buffets and comfort foods including hot dogs and hamburgers. Jon Voight was there, and so were Alec Baldwin, David Duchovny, Matt Dillon and Anderson Cooper along with a crowd of news anchor types and long time celebrity friends.

No matter what party (and there were so many) all departed from past tradition by giving very modest goody bags for take home. This year? A nice box of chocolates.

Congratulations to Slumdog Millionaire for its Best Pitcture Oscar. There was so many great films up for Best Picture, I am just glad I didn't have to choose who the winner was. Click Here to see all the winners.