Shop Window vs. High Street Fashion
08-07-2009
Mannequins in windows are a key guide for those people who are less willing to experiment in fashion. The shop will choose key garments from one of their collections and create an image for the season. This guides shoppers on how to look and many girls are seen wearing similar styled outfits.
The girl that is pictured is right up to date with this season's trends. The stone washed denim shorts, long navy cardigan; nipped in at the waist with a thin leather belt and silk, patterned neckerchief is a similar combination to what would be shown on a mannequin.
Windows displays are updated every season to reflect the themes that have been presented on the catwalk. However, the trends on the street seem to be constantly repeating themselves. This is becoming more frequent as the economic downfall is reaching its peak. This era of fashion is similar to the climate during World War Two, where the phrase "make do and mend" was notorious. Recently, we have spotted many people in home-made outfits, and they're not the only ones. We, ourselves, are culprits of cutting up a few dresses, and sticking on frills and a few sequins to try and give ourselves a fresh look.
One of the main trends this summer is denim, and it doesn't seem to be going anywhere for the coming autumn and winter. For those of you not so willing to experiment with the whole denim dress, or jumpsuit, the denim jacket is definitely a good investment as it is hardwearing, and will get you through the roughest of weather.
Jade Crerand is a budding fashion journalist and has got it spot on here with this elegant white dress, paired with tan suede ankle boots and a simple denim shirt. This look can carry her through all seasons.
One of the main forms of advertising for a shop is their window display. It subconsciously draws people in from the street. Many customers, when walking by, will notice the key items on the mannequins and pair them with other garments that most express their personality. This then creates a new image which is unlike what is seen in the window.
The creative side of this London shopper is evident as we catch her wearing this faded denim puff ball skirt, teamed with a high shouldered military jacket. She has added her own twist with this bold print tee, which allows her attitude and personality to shine out.
Yaomi Ahn, is wearing this seasons military jacket and has managed to make the look her own with her patterned dress and killer heels. We also love the dainty pearls round her wrist which really adds a touch of elegance.
Of course, there are always going to be those people that want to rebel against fashion's rules and we can't help but admire their individuality. They are the "most fashionable" in their own mind and their style is nothing that can be seen in any shop window.
Gemma has done a great job with this sculptured pencil skirt and woollen crop jumper. Our favourite part though is the patent Doc Martins.
Shop windows play a big role in influencing the way we dress and seem to win on the latest trends. However, it's the things that people pair these trends with to make it their own. They come up with new images which we all love to see everyday.
By Helen Batstone and Rachel Crocombe







