Issue link: http://maconmagazine.uberflip.com/i/1302805
Elena Garza As an independent contractor working in graphic design for Elizabeth Schorr & Co., Elena Garza said not much has changed with her work attire during the pandemic. "I'm lucky that I can wear whatever I like, so it hasn't been a huge change for me," she said. Shopping almost exclusively at Karats and Keepsakes, she likes to choose basics that don't go out of style, like jeans with a graphic tee or nice top, but keeps it fun with sneakers or a snakeskin bootie. On a typical day, Elena works from e Web Clubhouse, but did work from home during the height of quarantine. "In the beginning, I was only working from home and slowly started coming back to e Web. Now, I pretty much come every day because it helps me focus," she said. Regardless of where she is, one thing is certain: "I always have to do my hair and makeup so I can feel like a normal human. If I don't, then I don't feel like myself." A painter as well, Elena said she's always been creative and was drawn to graphic design as a career where she could express that creativity. Focusing on painting has been an upside to spending more time at home. "I've also made exercise more of a priority," she said. "It helps me mentally unwind." Sarah Webster Pre-COVID, Sarah Webster looked forward to the creative energy she got from working in the office at 13WMAZ. As the marketing director, she's responsible for promoting the station's brand and its talent. "For me, a lot of my job is creative, and I get a lot of energy from interacting and brainstorming with people," she said. "Being home, that's so limited, and it's just not the same over Zoom." When working from home became her new normal, Sarah began to notice some holes in her wardrobe. "I dressed pretty professional for work because it helped me be in work mode. Since I've been home, I haven't really dressed that way," she said. "I realized I don't have enough semi-casual clothes, things you can wear at home and be comfortable and not be sloppy. I never wore jeans to work before, and I got these just before quarantine, and I wear them three times a week now because they are so comfortable." She describes her style as a little boho and a little retro. For a professional work- from-home look, she frequently chooses a white, button-down shirt with a collar. "I feel like a collar makes you look more put together on Zoom," she said. Even though her clothes have changed, one thing remains the same about her morning beauty ritual: "I have to have lips, 100 percent, all the time, even at home, even under a mask. If I don't have lipstick on, I'm not ready to go." AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 | maconmagazine.com 73