Oscar could have fewer choices

Putting an emphasis on quality rather than quantity, the Academy Awards shook up the best picture category again. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced Tuesday that it had approved a change in the nomination process that will allow between five and 10 best picture nominees. A film will need a minimum of 5 percent first-place votes to be nominated for best picture.

Bruce Davis, retiring executive director of the academy, recommended the change. “In studying the data, what stood out was that academy members had regularly shown a strong admiration for more than five movies,” Davis said. “A best picture nomination should be an indication of extraordinary merit. If there are only eight pictures that truly earn that honor in a given year, we shouldn’t feel an obligation to round out the number.”

For more information, log on to www.oscars.org.

Ergonomic nail clipper costs $70

Inventors may be in continuous pursuit of building a better mousetrap, phone or digital tablet, but some creations seem perfect as is, or more likely, not interesting enough to merit a second glance. Now comes Klhip, billed as The Ultimate Clipper for your nails, which earned a Design Distinction Award in I.D. Magazine’s 2010 Annual Design Review and a 2010 Good Design Award from the Chicago Athenaeum Museum. Klhip is a luxury, ergonomic nail clipper with a reversed lever that gives users more control. It’s available at www.klhip.com for $70 or $95 with leather carrying case.

STYLE FILE

Gift tote full of Lancôme goodies

Designer Chris Benz is collaborating with Lancôme for a limited-edition gift with purchase through June 25, exclusively at Saks Fifth Avenue and saks.com.

Customers will receive the complimentary Chris Benz-designed tote with any $60 purchase. The tote, printed with a chic, stylized silhouette, makes the perfect summer accessory for those hitting the road.

It’s packed with Lancôme must-haves Définicils Precious Cells Mascara and Absolue Hand, and you’ll have the option to select your moisturizer and pink or coral makeup trio.

Sephora events star skin care products, mascara

Sephora is hosting a couple of beauty events this weekend and next:

Friday and Saturday: Benefit representatives will showcase the company’s new line of B-right Benefit skin care products. The company, long known for its color and makeup collections, introduced the line just in time for summer. It includes oil-free Triple Performing Facial Emulsion SPF 15, Total Moisture Facial Cream, It’s Potent! eye cream, as well as face wash, face polish, makeup remover and rehydrating mist.

June 25: Six artists will customize looks for clients with Buxom’s new Amplified Lash Mascara during its “Buxom Get Amped!” event.

Events take place during store hours, and bookings can be made by dropping in-store a day ahead or by calling 944-9797.