Store Window Displays: From Idea to Execution

Store windows are effective marketing tools

Posted on 15, April, 2015

Last Modified on 27, February, 2023

This article lays out insider tips and tricks for crafting an effective storefront window display. Put your ideas into action with these helpful and inexpensive suggestions!

Where to Start

Pops of Color Draw Attention

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!

Sketch Out Your Store Window 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
  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!
  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
Window

SEG backwall

Mannequins for Displaying Clothing & Accessories

Abstract mannequin

LED Window Display

LED lightbox display

Window Decals

Window decals

Window Display Ideas

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

A Creative & Branded Window Display
Use of nontraditional elements, colors, & shapes
Use of Attractive Backdrops & Decorations
Use of colorful backdrops, well-styled mannequins, nontraditional birch tree stands, & inexpensive lighting
Bright Pops of Color Attract Attention
Bright pops of color draw the customer's eye.
Mannequin Window Display Example
Mannequins reflect the store's identity.
Dress Shows Showcase Merchandise
A DIY backdrop fills empty space and generates intrigue.
Themed Seasonal Window Display
A beautiful winter wonderland concept with a backdrop to fit the theme, including pops of color on mannequins to draw the eye.
Mannequins with Sale Tags
Extra-large price tags to annouce a sale with gusto.
A Creative Back-to-School Window Display
A creative mix of nontraditional elements, thought-out mannequin presentation, pops of color, and store branding!
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