Oscar stars showered with freebies

Oscar nominees and presenters will be showered by even more expensive free gifts than usual next month. Companies compete to get their products in the prestigious basket because of the huge marketing potential – getting clothes, perfume and gadgets into the hands of powerful celebrities.

This year the presents will include a Manolo Blahnik suede lined leather bag, filled with suede sandals by the designer, Veuve Cliquot champagne, a Hermes cashmere blanket, Baccarat crystal earrings for the women and crystal lighters for the men.

The stars will also get Motorola camera mobile phones and they’ll be pampered with massages, make-up and facials at a luxury spa.

The best-actress nominees will be sent jewelled pink and lace bras from Victoria’s Secret with a white gold and diamond attachment that can also be worn as a brooch. The total value of the gift basket is reportedly $30,000 (€24,200).