Weekend Update

1. I haven’t shopped in the Nordstrom “Brass Plum” (is it even still called that?) junior’s section in a decade, ever since I realized that loose cashmere hoodies were infinitely more comfortable than tight fitting halter tops. I recently ventured back however, in a quest to find loose fitting, affordable dresses for my giant belly. And I was really surprised by what I found! There were quite a few great items, but my favorite was this little off the shoulder dress.

Really cute, not too short (I’m a paltry 5’1 and still find many juniors’ sizes a bit too Snooki-esque for my taste), and even lined. And the best part – full price for either navy or coral (two great colors) – $42! I love this dress and depending on how you accessorize it, it could be either it’s the perfect casual day dress, going out night/party dress, or resort/beach wear. I bought a size larger to fit my bump and maybe will get the other color for after!

2. Some of you may have article read this series of articles published last week in The New York Times, about the hazards faced by nail salon workers all around the country (but particularly in New York), and the human costs are for the inexpensive manicures you see advertised all around.

The article was both disturbing and eye opening for me, and I hope that you will find it educational as well. Part One – The Price of Nice Nails, and Part Two – Perfect Nails, Poisoned Workers, are linked for you to read.

3. Whenever I decide to dedicate a good afternoon to wandering around and shopping in the 8th arr in Paris, I always end up meandering over to the Moynat boutique (a must visit destination, by the way, for any luxury leather lover). I’ve never been disappointed by the brand and it’s only a matter of time before I break and buy a bag. I thought this little feature on the brand and its director, Ramesh Nair (formerly of Hermes) via the WSJ, was a nice little peek into the brand (though I would have liked more pictures!).

4. I just finished catching up on all my HBO shows, which served as a reminder to me to exhort all of you to watch one of the funniest shows on right now – Silicon Valley. I waited way too long to watch this show because I didn’t think it could possibly compete with dragons and incest, and plus I didn’t really want to watch a show about the area where I live, starring all dudes, who all yap about startups (I could just wander over to any one of several neighboring apartments in my complex for that).

However, this show is so, so funny. And so, so insightful and true. It’s kind of like once you start working and then go back and read the Dilbert comics – you wonder how the creators could have known so many personal details about all the obnoxious people you’ve encountered. It’s my guilty pleasure and watching it is by far one of the highlights of my week.

Whether you live in Silicon Valley or not – please watch this show. Mike Judge is a comedic genius. Enjoy!