Refined: Behold! Tom Ford

photo credit: Kevin Mazur / WireImage

Image: Esquire.com

Each year I sit down to watch the Oscars with two things in mind:

1) Become inspired by all the creative talent and channel that into writing and idea development.

2) Oggle fancy, completely unattainable tuxedos.

This year I was successfully able to acheive my first goal but the second was left lacking, except for the work of one man... none other than Tom Ford.  The man can do no wrong when it comes to cutting a flawless penguin suit.  He is seen here wearing a shawl collar version, while Firth sports the usual wide peak lapel:

photo credit: Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images

Image: Esquire.com

Photo: Retna Ltd.

Image: GQ.com

On a night where even George Clooney looked subpar, Ford himself, his star Colin Firth and show host, Alec Baldwin all reigned in old school swagger with Ford's undeniably classic designs.  Baldwin is no stranger to making a tuxedo look good.  His character Jack Doneghy on (the funniest show on TV) 30 Rock, is frequently found donning an evening suit. He once remarked, upon being asked why he was sporting such attire in his office: "For god sake Lemon (Fey), it's after 6 p.m., what do I look like... a farmer?"
  

Photo: Kevin Mazur/VF1/WireImage

Image: GQ.com

In my opinion, Ford's tailoring stole the show and made all the others look as though they were adorn in rumpled sacks pulled from a wardrobe hurt locker. Just search for a picture of Robert Downey Jr. or any technical or musical specialist - I refuse to post one here.  I like to try to give them the benefit of the doubt and assume their minds were so focused on their creative genius that they couldn't be bothered with their shirt tails or attempting a real bow tie.

As stellar as Ford's tuxs were, I have to give the best dressed honour to Bradley Cooper.  Unfortunately, I am unable to find who is responsible for his tuxedo (if I were to guess I would say RL Purple Label) but, b-r-a-v-o!  Perfectly tailored, unique bow tie, the right amount of cuff gracing the wrist, tame hair and the pièce de résistance - the 6 button, scoop front waistcoat.  The only thing I might change is the lapel from notch to peak... the more formal peak lapel would have better complimented the sophistication of the waistcoat.  Either way, no contest.

  

Image: justjared.buzznet.com

Image: justjared.buzznet.com

Image: justjared.buzznet.com

For more images of Brad's winning wardrobe see the full slideshow here.