Before I started my own firm I designed store windows for brands like Coach, so I truly appreciate how complex and intricate the most alluring windows can be. It’s been fascinating to watch the evolution of the holiday window, especially as retailers roll out ever-more elaborate concepts and technical wizardry.
To me, the most appealing window designs are the ones that are unifying in theme, however simple. A few of my favorites from this season:
Bergdorf Goodman‘s window (above) very successfully brings a monochromatic palette to life with contrasting textures. It reminds me of an all-white bedroom I designed and the challenge of tying in all the subtle tones. Adding texture and materials like snakeskin and woven wools made it chic and interesting—just like this thrilling vignette.
This is another arresting all-white vision at Selfridges in London.
This Bergdorf Goodman scene incorporates animal figurines in beautiful woods and leathers against a backdrop of camels and neutrals, again using color as the cohesive element.
Though the inspiration for this Barneys New York window is the outre style of Lady Gaga, the design is an accomplished—and unexpected—play on textured knitwear.
This Laduree window is divine. Sometimes the unifying element is simple, as in the ribbon stripe theme of their Manhattan window. Amidst the elaborate department store displays, this is a triumph of a concise, well-executed idea.
These beautiful store windows succeed by centering on a specific theme—an excellent basis for interior design projects as well—and usher in 2012 on an inspired note.
Wishing you the very best in the New Year,
Photos: 1-6 via Vanity Fair; 7 via Habitually Chic
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