E. Nina Rothe

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Clip Nine of the Minimalist Fashionista on Lockdown: 'Unorthodox', Passover ideas and a thought on surgical masks

A still from Netflix’ ‘Unorthodox’ available now

Tonight is the start of Passover and I wanted to share some ideas that have to do with this celebration of liberation. We need that ourselves after all these days!

For film, I’m recommending a series this time, on Netflix. It’s ‘Unorthodox’ and season 1 is directed by Maria Schrader — a very personal favorite filmmaker. I interviewed her a few years ago about another project which I adored. I connected to her film and connect with her as a human being. Check out our 2016 interview here.

‘Unorthodox’ is based on Deborah Feldman’s personal story, told in her book by the same title, of her own escape from the Hasidic community in Brooklyn and making a life for herself as just a “regular” woman. Of course, she’ll never be that, since she’s extraordinary and powerful and an all around badass and she provides great inspiration. I urge you to read her book, very different from the series.

Fashion is vintage BCBG Max Azria. I bought it in 2012 at a time when my life was in turmoil and changing at dizzying speeds. It reminds me of how far I’ve come and the issues I’ve been able to deal with and overcome. The fact that it’s a lovely blue and white, matching the Israeli flag, is just a coincidence actually.

Also for Passover seders everywhere, we can do away with leavened bread and eat matzos for the next 8 days. And bitter herbs are easy to include in our everyday routine via some Earl Grey Green tea by Bigelow.

Finally, my thoughts on surgical masks and the environment. It’s a difficult time for us, but let’s not make it a traumatic time for our beautiful earth too. These little items of personal safety are joining forces with others from different continents and beginning to pollute our oceans. So, choose an environmentally friendly way, make your own if you don’t plan on being around infected people or aren’t infected yourself.

And the best way to protect ourselves and our gorgeous earth is to stay home. So do it! #StayHome #StaySafe #StayHealthy