Store Window Displays: From Idea to Execution

Where to Start

There’s more to designing an effective and attractive retail window display than just simply displaying your merchandise. Instead, view your store’s window design as an opportunity to make your business stand out from the crowd. You can use it to create a place that will embody your store’s mission and brand - one that makes window shoppers do a double-take or even stop in their tracks. If your current window display lacks direction or creativity you are truly missing out on an incredible marketing opportunity. To correct this, all you really need to do is get creative!

Follow these suggestions when first conceptualizing your window design:

• Use your window display to tell a story or follow a theme
• Avoid the predictable - this is your chance to set the shop apart from cookie-cutter chain stores
• Make it attractive, memorable, intriguing, and colorful so customers stop & stare
• Add elements that are not necessarily product related but add context
• Think from the point of view of the passerby - what will be visible from street level?
• Keep it simple and focused — don't clutter your display with too many elements that can be distracting to the eye

Next, you'll want to develop a specific theme for your window display with these conceptual elements in mind and map out exactly what you want it to look like.

Sketch Your Design!

It doesn't have to be perfect, or even that good! The purpose of the sketch is to develop a creative vision and plan to reference as you execute the window design. Making the drawing to scale will help you realize how much space needs to be filled and what should go where before you make any purchases or start any DIY crafts.

Elements of a Storefront Display

Now that you have your concept, you need to actually make it happen. This is much easier said than done...

Here are some ideas to help you turn your design into a reality:

1. Begin with backdrop that makes the items in your display pop
   • Stretch graphic backwalls are perfect for setting a vibrant background that's presentable both inside a store and out
   • Use a video wall background to capture attention with engaging visuals
2. Vary display heights using risers, tables, or other furniture
3. Mannequin presentation should be simple, deliberate, & tasteful
   • Choose mannequins with similar styles for brand consistency
4. Lighting draws attention and illuminates goods - even when the store is closed!
   • Hanging LED Lightboxes
   • Strings of white Christmas lights
   • Spotlights
   • Paper Lanterns
5. DIY Decorations
   • Tissue paper flowers - check out this great tutorial
   • Paper mache + paint = anything & everything!
   • Get creative!
6. Play with inexpensive design elements - a few hours of craft time could save you a lot of money
   • Sheets
   • Wrapping paper
   • Fake flowers & greenery
   • Ribbon
   • Tissue Paper
7. Bring your main message or sale to the foreground with a well-placed vinyl decal

SEG backwall

Abstract mannequin

LED lightbox display

Window decals

Window Display Ideas

Here's a little more inspiration to help get you started!

Use of nontraditional elements, colors, & shapes

Use of colorful backdrops, well-styled mannequins, nontraditional birch tree stands, & inexpensive lighting

Bright pops of color draw the customer's eye.

Mannequins reflect the store's identity.

A DIY backdrop fills empty space and generates intrigue.

A beautiful winter wonderland concept with a backdrop to fit the theme, including pops of color on mannequins to draw the eye.

Extra-large price tags to annouce a sale with gusto.

A creative mix of nontraditional elements, thought-out mannequin presentation, pops of color, and store branding!