Hollywood legend Mr. Blackwell, the inventor of the worst-dressed list, has been hospitalized. The 86-year-old designer is reportedly seriously ill. He collapsed at his Los Angeles home on Tuesday and was taken to the hospital, where he is unconscious.

The initial diagnosis is that Mr. Blackwell, born Richard Sylvan Seltzer, is suffering from septic shock. Doctors consider his condition "stable," but have him in intensive care under constant watch. He is being treated with antibiotics.

Mr. Blackwell's partner of almost 60 years, R.L. Spencer, is at his side.