Having mostly done my Christmas shopping online, this year I am happily avoiding the crowds. However, I decided to treat myself to some festive retail spirit and discover the window displays at night, when the streets are empty and everyone is at home letting their feet – and wallets – rest.
I’m currently in Cordoba – southern Spain – as my parents still live here. Christmas here is not huge, but the high streets are buzzing. Due to the local government’s attempts at cutting costs, there are only lights and decorations in the centre of the city, which slightly ruins the atmosphere, as it all becomes more spend, spend, spend, and less “be merry and happy because it’s Christmas time”. There are also very few interesting shops, as – like with any other shopping area in Spain – the Inditex group is king, with very few other brands such as Mango, Desigual, Vero Moda, attempting to bring some variety into the game.
Having worked as a Visual Merchandiser may make me a tad hard to please when it comes to retail creativity. Nevertheless, here are some pictures I took. How about some Bjork when looking at these stills?
Zara – It’s oh so quiet shhhhhhh, shhhhhhhh
Pull & Bear – it’s all so still, shhhhhhh, shhhhhhh
Mango for Men – you are alone, shhhhh, shhhhh
Mango – and so peaceful until …
I hope you all take care on the run up to Christmas. Go easy on the drinking, avoid driving, spend money wisely and remember to call that special person you haven’t spoken to lately. Most of all, stay happy.
Pictures: Fashion Limbo
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