The Magic of Christmas Window Displays

I think most people, regardless of religious beliefs and practice, agree there’s nothing like Christmas time. It’s beautiful, festive and full of joy and merriment. It’s not about the wishlist or best decked out tree; rather about the gift of  family, love, peace and giving. It’s a time when we collectively relish in what’s to come.

While the heart-felt sentiments dictate our actions this season, there’s the element of décor that warms our hearts and invoke feelings that seem so hard to come by any other time. It’s almost as if our eyes yearn the aesthetics knowing our hearts will fill with glow.

Christmas and the holidays are also a magical when we dream big; dream of what could be; what will be.

Window-hopping during the holidays is one of those default experiences that places us in a dreamy bubble. The visuals are remarkably eye-catching. A strong and effective window design will create a whimsical moment in time that makes the most adult of us feel young and free again.

Eyes wide open in awe.

Finger pointed to the one element that resonates.

Jaw dropped.

If you’ve been to Manhattan during the holidays you’ve likely enjoyed the elaborately designed Rockefeller Plaza. Right across the street the famous The Snowflake and Bubble show on the facade of Saks Fifth Avenue attracts hundreds of thousands of locals and tourists. It’s arguably the most special display of winter wonderland. Young and old, American and  other, shoppers and passerbyers stand in awe while the animated snowflakes create a 2-minute-long 3D show to the tune of ‘Carol of the Bells’.

I took this video in 2011 and still enjoy it. If you’ve never experienced it, treat yourself at least once.

{READ: How to Wear Simple Winter Fashion With a Fabulous Hat & Stunning Boots}

Last year the displays at City Center in D.C. evoked a similar sentiment.  After a hectic morning of meetings, I drove by on a whim and spent a few minutes walking through the well-lit courtyard. It was a simple moment in time to enjoy the cheerful ambiance. The window display at Louis Vuitton, specifically, was spot on. Huge cartoon-like and shiny gold rabbits took center stage, begging for attention. And it got mine. I stood quietly, enjoying the detailed whimsy while dreaming of a colossal house that could permanently host shiny friends. Wouldn’t that offer the perfect balance of young and old? Serious and fun? Adulting and kid-like?

We had pet rabbits when we lived in Miami so the visual was quite special.

It was all a dream, though. A dream that impresses my will to enjoy the now and continue designing a brighter, more meaningful future.

And, then off to enjoy a creamy cup of a turmeric chai latte at one of my newly favorite coffees shops.

…Because nothing says winter cheer like a warm cup of a delicately decadent beverage.

{MAKE: THE PERFECT CUBAN ESPRESSO}

‘Tis the season, friends!

Take the time to enjoy a whimsical moment. Life is complicated and hard sometimes, but taking the time to stand still to let yourself dream is a tried and true recipe for peace and renewed energy.

B! inspired to enjoy some holiday and wintry fashion, too. See more of this look in this post.

WEARING

Custom-made beaver hat 

Ralph Lauren silk top

Vintage suede mini skirt via Old Navy

Banana Republic rose stockings 

Max Azria Collection boots

Kenzie Canada Goose

Cashmere scarf via Nordstrom

Crystal chandelier earrings via TJ Maxx; Lucky Brand garnet cocktail ring; vintage gold twist cuff

Photography c/o @VickyAyala 

Eat well, love unapologetically, pray with true intention, and take care of yourself.

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