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| Art by Be. Franke |
2020 has most certainly redefined the office as we know it - and I think it's clear that we may never fully go back to the workplace as we did before. Now whether you previously had a dedicated space for it or not, many of us now have home offices - in the kitchen, in the living room, or in the bedroom. Here are some ideas to make those spaces more functional, more comfortable, and set your loved ones up for success as they go about their work virtually.
Because it finally feels like it might be time to start making some plans again - and as someone who lived the WFH-life pre-COVID, it was key to keeping me on track - a sleek classic planner with some unexpected twists. 2021 Planner from Wit & Delight.
Because it's a message we all need to hear (and hold out hope for) - a sticker for keeping it front and center. Everything XL Puffy Sticker from Adam J. Kurtz.
For making even the slobbiest of sweatshirts look chic on zoom - a simple scarf can make a big statement. Silk Bandana from Amisha Design. Want something more wintery? This Cashmere Bandana from Everlane has been on my list forever and these fringed numbers are to die for. Money coming out your ears? Well, you can't go wrong with this showstopper.
Because whether in a virtual meeting or with a mask on the street, earrings are never a bad investment. A perennial favorite on the gift guide and the source of much of my jewelry - Poppy Muse Hoops from Machete.
Because if 2020 could use anything - it's a fragrance that helps you reset in times of stress. Green Cardamom, Iris, Palo Santo, and Cilantro sounds like quite the combination. Unisex Functional Fragrance from the Nue Co. I'm also dying to try their Forest Lungs - another destresser.
For looking professional while feeling like he's still in sweats - a soft polo shirt that looks sharp (with collar stays and all). Long Sleeve Players Shirt from Criquet.
Because good lighting really does make a huge difference - a small suction cup light with a diffuser that ups the quality of all their facetimes. Video Conference Light from Lumecube.
Because whether adding polish to a WFH look, or cozying up - a wrap is essential in my book. This reversible option is gorgeous and the company celebrates female African leadership and artistry. Kichana Wrap from Mille Collines.
For motivation (and caffeination) - Don't Procrastinate Mug from Good Fucking Design Advice.
For important decisions and setting priorities - Do It Now/Fuck It Notepad from Terrapin Stationers.
For toting their mobile workspace to a change in scenery - and for bigger adventures in the coming year. ReNew Transit Backpack from Everlane.
For non-shower day zooms. Email Baseball Hat from Hayley Elsaesser.
Because over-ear headphones also mask a world of messy hair. My faves are the Bose Quiet Comfort, but these from Jabra come in at a much lower price point and are highly reviewed.
For keeping hands busy while on endless calls - and looking good doing it - a handsome set of wooden stacking "stones" for creating their own desk cairn. Sycamore Stones from The Wood Rocks Shop on Etsy.
Also for fidgeting - a set of magnetic balls that are endlessly moldable, in either plain or multicolored. Speks.
For relieving end of day back pain with gentle stretching and rolling. Wheel+ from Chirp.
Finally, for preventing back pain before it begins, because the kitchen table was not designed for laptop ergonomics - but these cushions are. A duo of seat and back support that make any chair the most comfortable chair in the house. Egonomic Lumbar and Pressure Relief Seat Cushions from The Cushion Lab.
