HOW IS BLOOMINGDALE’S FASHION DIRECTOR COPING WITH THE ADVISED COVID-19 ISOLATION?

Posted on by Cameron Tewson

Erica Russo is Bloomingdale’s Vice President and Fashion Director of Accessories & Beauty. We caught up with the New York based executive via e-mail to see how she’s coping at home during the advised COVID-19 isolation period and just what she is doing to be active, support and of course – eating!

CT: What are you doing at this time for self-care?

ER: As crazy as this time is, I’m trying to catch up on sleep which feels like a luxury coming off of Fashion Month and being on the move. I’m trying (trying to be the operative word because it’s not perfect) to eat well… I feel better throughout the day if I’m not hopped up on sugar

CT: What are you watching? Reading? Listening to?

ER: I’m watching a lot of Netflix and reading Lin- Manuel Miranda’s book- Gmorning, Gnight – little pep talks for me & you. It was sent to me a while ago and felt like a perfect time to read.

CT: Are there any charities that you are supporting in the wake of Covid-19?

I’m in awe of our front line health care workers and have the utmost gratitude for what they are doing every day. It’s inspiring what I see happening on social media and how everyday people are able to spread the word about donating to a cause or picking up one themselves. One woman was collecting and buying metro cards to distribute to heath care workers and social media allowed me to donate to her cause directly. There have been a lot of swipe up links taking you to charities that support food banks or sourcing protective gear for health care workers.  I believe even a little can go a long way.

CT: What sorts of activities are you doing at home to keep yourself creative and inspired?

ER: To stay inspired I work to keep in touch with co-workers, friends and family. We are brainstorming ideas for projects that are happening now and future things we can try when all of this is over. There are also a lot of uplifting and creative people on social media. Their content as me inspired to keep creating, even if no one will see it.

CT: What is something new that you have tried while being home? OR Have you engaged in any new activities/started any new hobbies while being home?

ER: While at home I’ve started to stream a workout service, I’ve used it twice. Also, I order a food delivery service for three meals a week that contain all the ingredients you need for each meal. All you have to do is follow the instructions and at the end you should have a nice dinner. It’s paint by numbers for cooking!

CT: Is there any advice on how to stay motivated that you’d like to give other fellow creatives that are WFH at this time?

ER: I believe a lot has to do with your mindset. Right now, it’s a roller coaster of emotions that show up differently each day. For me, starting the day with gratitude and respect for those who can’t work at home has helped to level set where I am at this very moment.

One thing I recommend is dress as if you weren’t going to be working out of your home. This week I started getting dressed in clothing, other that sweats, and doing my hair which has been a mood shifter.

I also create a To Do list for what I want and need to accomplish in that day as well as make time to call and talk to people. I have to have that interaction. I also like to end my day by 5:30pm or 6:00pm and turn off work mode. I’m trying to create some normalcy in a time when things feel anything but.

CT: What’s your favourite cocktail/wine?

ER: I’m into red wine mostly- never white- and occasionally rose 

CT: What’s your favourite comfort food?

ER: Anything sweet like brownies, chocolate cookies or banana bread (refer to question 1 as to why it’s not perfect lol) I enjoy baking and it’s something I now have the time to do!

Also pasta- how many ways can you make and dress pasta. There’s a lot! 

You can check out the latest Fashion Director finds on Bloomingdale’s website here

Spread the love

About Cameron Tewson

Cameron, the visionary force behind frontrowedit.co.uk, established his highly acclaimed blog a decade ago, catapulting him to the forefront of the social media landscape. With a keen focus on global relationships and exclusive interviews with editors, designers, celebrities, and tastemakers, Cameron seamlessly navigated his way to becoming a sought-after freelance consultant. His expertise even caught the attention of the prestigious Saks Fifth Avenue in the United States. In 2019, Cameron earned recognition as one of the influential figures under 30 in the Watches & Jewellery industry. Back in 2014, CNN International ranked his blog as the 7th top-read in its category, solidifying his position as a captivating and authoritative voice in the digital space. Explore the world of fashion, lifestyle, and industry insights with Cameron on frontrowedit.co.uk. View all posts by Cameron Tewson →

Related Posts