I curated and styled a display window for Shakedown Street on Main Street, Oneonta, NY; a local consignment/thrift shop. This project was a SUNY Oneonta Community Engagement Project as a part of Sarah Portway's Fashion Promotion class.
Final Project Outcome
This is me next to the completed window display.
What I did
During this project, I was able to exercise my skills as a visual merchandiser, utilizing things like brand storytelling, creativity, styling, trend forecasting, and an understanding of consumer behavior. I was given full free range of the products in the store and tasked with creating an alluring display by dressing the mannequins and using accessories and props to create a cohesive look for the window. I wanted to emulate a spring ambiance for the display, so I focused on simple dresses and skirts paired with oversized statement jackets. I accessorized with purses, necklaces, hats, cowboy-esque boots, and sunglasses to emphasize the transition from cold-weather accessories to spring/summer ones. I made sure all of the items possessed synergy in order to create a striking display that drove consumer engagement with the shop.
What I learned
During this community engagement project, I learned how important it is for businesses to tell a story with their brick-and-mortar stores. Visual merchandising plays an incredible role in the amount of engagement and sales businesses receive on a day-to-day basis. If your shop doesn't strike the attention of a consumer, you're losing potential customers, which means you're losing money. Making sure your window displays are attractive and exciting is a crucial part of running a business and the fashion industry in general. Getting hands-on experience with mannequins, dress forms, and display racks was also helpful, as they are something I will most definitely be working with a lot more in the near and far future. I also developed a better understanding of how to work with different clothing styles, colors, patterns, etc., and what goes into styling outfits that draw attention. I was able to express myself creatively and develop stronger skills that I can take into my future as a fashion professional.
