The other Oscar carpets

A few friends asked how come I didn't post anything about the Oscars red carpet this year, and my honest answer is that I found the red carpet BORING.  I was totally uninspired. But then I checked out pictures of the Vanity Fair and Elton John AIDS Foundation parties and felt a lot better. These are the looks that saved the Oscars this year.  

Woman of the hour Jennifer Lawrence in Calvin Klein Collection. While her Dior gown was pretty and sweet, it's great that she changed into something quite dark and sexy for the after party.  

Kate Bosworth in Giambattista Valli Couture. Beautiful dress that's right on trend.

Miranda Kerr in Valentino. She looked very glamorous in this baroque inspired gown.

Kate Beckinsale in Monique Lhuillier. Love this. Princess cut, modern edgy embellishment.

Natalie Portman in Dior. Can't beat the simplicity of this look with the stunning jewelry.

Rose Byrne in Lanvin. Love this. Simple, clean and sexy.

Maria Sharapova in Amanda Wakeley. This is beautiful, the navy and gold make perfect eye candy.

Amy Adams in Oscar de la Renta. This is so much cooler than the gown she wore to the Oscars. 20's inspired and really compliments her colors. 

Nina Dobrev in Naeem Khan. She looks amazing in this monochrome gown.  

Images: Glamour 

Me time must

I just got back from a little break in London. By little break, I mean 4 very precious days ALONE. Packing was so easy! No baby bottles or sterilising tablets, no changing bag and no carry on stuffed with puzzles and sticker books. I actually forgot what it's like to walk through an airport with just my handbag. Of course I was a little anxious about leaving the kids and my husband alone, I had images of the house exploding and my kids running loose on the street. I was also sad and choked up for about 5 minutes into the flight. Then it all dissolved and a sense of calm washed over me instead. I spent 4 days of walking for miles, shopping, having coffee (or the occasional glass of wine) whenever I wanted. I read. I slept. I spent time with a few close friends. And I shopped some more. Now 4 days may not seem like much, well to any singles anyway. But any mom would know that it's just enough. And I highly recommend it. Actually I insist you do it at least once a year. Make it your 2013 resolution. Work on buttering up whatever family you will need to help babysit. Decide on what kind of break will refuel you best, whether its a yoga retreat, a secluded beach or like me, some serious retail therapy. And do it. 

Image: Cig Harvey