I don't watch TV, but I did catch the vid. of Britney's performance on youtube.
The outfit was definitely a poor choice. I agree that if she wants to be a serious performer again it might be wise to hit the gym a little more often, but even if she's not going to get back the body of her teen years, she should definitely make an effort to "dress more strategically".
I think her biggest mistake was trying to look hyper sexualized. That might have worked for her before, but right now I think a smarter move would have been a no-belly-barring top (perhaps with a lowish cut if she really wanted to show off the girls), sleeveless - but I'd have advised some playful gloves -, a skirt that did manage to cover most of butt and thighs while still cut in such a way so as to give the impression of being short and revealing. She could have finished the whole thing off with a nice pair of boots or some stilettos (although the latter option probably wouldn't have done much for her much criticised dance routine). Thus, she'd have still achieved a "sexy, naughty girl" look (which probably was necessary to compliment the song she'd chosen to perform), but wouldn't have drawn unnecessary attention to her depreciating assets.
As for the hair she should have gone with a sensible wig, tried to do something cute with her short hair (I'm not sure exactly how much she had to work with), or else incorporated a hat into the mix.
I do think there's something to be said for someone who can shamelessly pull off an outfit like she tried to wear, despite no longer having the best body, but unfortunately she didn't look shameless and her whole dance routine would have needed to be very energetic and seamless. Then she would have come off as a confident, sexy young woman who was proud of the way she looked and didn't care if it conformed perfectly to magazine standards. (she'd likely still have taken a lot of flack from some people, but I would defend her right to "have fun" and be proud of her body whatever shape it's in).
He does seem have turned a corner in his career! Back in the N'sync days I found most of their music fairly catchy, but ultimately forgettable (and irritating if heard too much). Then we he started his solo career - back in the nipplegate days - I thought he'd completely jumped the shark, lost his talent, and was due for a Britney-esque slump. But he really "brought sexy back" with his latest album. So far I've loved every single and been eager to hear more. That's certainly something he'd never accomplished with me earlier in his career.
Personally, I still don't think he's all that cute though.
-Kevin