Trendspotting - Books as trees

here is recent trend we have noted....retailers like to make displays with books - and when really ambitious...make them into trees.

A few examples seen here along with a wall of books all covered in white as the "back drop" for the DJ booth of Macy's Bar III pop up shop where Solange was spinning.

5 things we LOVE about Visual Merchandising

1. It can tell a story
Good visuals can help a retailer sell the image of their brand. It’s best when visuals tie back to product but as long as the message is clear and the window is effective, we can learn a lot about a brand or store from their windows.

2. It can promote a good cause
Often retailers get involved in collaborating with charities or doing marketing tie ins. Using their store windows to communicate this is a great way to capture pedestrians attention and let them know what is important to their company.

3. It can show me who cares

When retailers take the time to think about the presentation of their store environment, it sets a tone. Good windows, clean selling floors and details like props in display vitrines add interest for the consumer and show that the brand cares what you think.

4. It helps me keep time

Seasonal enhancements and decoratives that reflect the time of year, help consumers know when and what to celebrate. Especially in the busy fall and winter season from Halloween to Easter stores help set the pace when there is one holiday after another.

5. It entertains me

As they say in PR, "bad news is still news" and even when a store window is unattractive, it can get people talking. Often I will pull over to look at a bad window and wonder where they were going with the idea -its like when you watch a bad movie with good actors and ask yourself "didn't any of them know while it was being made"?

Pedestal Rising!

Here are some examples of risers and pedestals that help highlight product and give height to window displays. The corrugated 'seat' for the mannequin is interesting as well as purposeful and each of these serve a different need but all speak to the idea that pedestrians notice what is at eye level more than objects on the floor. So vary the height of your window and get your product noticed. Go ahead - put yourself on a pedestal!

ribbon, ribbon, everywhere

Who doesn't love ribbon? It dresses up a package, adds an elegant detail to a jacket and can be fashioned into endless bows and shapes. Here we see two examples of 'ribbons as prop' and they both do a great job of adding drama to the product - which afterall should be the focus. But, it's true what they say, "wrapping CAN make or break a gift" and that is often all in the ribbon.