Updated windows at the Denholm Building

This week I was able to get away from my full time job to spend a little time at the Denholm Building to update their windows.  It had been a year since I had been there last, so it was in desperate need for an update.  Very little money was spent on these windows, and I like the challenge of having to work with everyday items.  I usually choose paper as my medium, as it is inexpensive and comes in a lot of variety such as cups, envelopes, 8 x 10 sheets etc...
    I would hope that other retailers, or owners of vacant store fronts would try to put their best foot forward to create a better street-scape for the Downtown area.... It deserves it.

 

The is a window for the Worcester Community Action Council which is celebrating it's 50th anniversary.  The material here is journal rolls from registers swagged in various formations to create a drape like effect as the back drop.  The copy strip at the bottom is also made from seamless paper-curled and folded.

This window was created for Dress for Success and it comprised of 500 sheets of gold paper twisted and curled into different formations to create this large scale organic structure to play off the mannequins leopard scarf.  

Here is a close up detail of the varied shapes.  A chicken wire structure was used to affix the paper too.

The last window is to highlight vacant space for rent in the building.  In order to fill the space I strung 400 paper circles onto back yarn and spaced them so it resembles bubbling water.  Gels on the lights highlight the red circles.  This is a temporary install as I have to get back in to complete it once some of piping is corrected under the floors.

I always look forward to my time spent in Worcester at my favorite building.  I only hope that others appreciate a decorated window as much as I do.

Best,

Christopher

Happy Mothers Day!

This window is a 1957 display for Mothers Day. This display revolves around popular gift items found throughout the Lingerie department on the second floor.  Chiffon peignoir sets, house coats, silk underpinnings, and stockings were what most mothers wanted to receive on their special day. Notice the large oversized book made into a shelving display holding various perfumes (Shalimar, White Shoulders, Lily of the Valley) worn during the 1950's

To all of the mothers who have done so much for us over the years, I hope that you all have an amazing day!  We wouldn't be here with you.

Easter shopping 1965

"Spring comes to Denholms first" reads the copy in this window display from 1965.  The display revolved around navy suits and coordinating hats, but the real focus was on the shoe assortment by "Foot Flairs"(which was a vendor sold in the women's shoe salon on the first floor).  I love the hand-painted image of the tree on plexiglass, and the scatter gravel used on the floor, and of course, the vintage mannequins. 

 

 Today virtually no one buys a new outfit or shoes to celebrate the Easter holiday, but back in the day, Easter would come second to Christmas for apparel sales.  

One more week till spring, and enough time to do your Easter shopping!

Best,

Chris

Denholms Easter window 1951

Here is a charming window display for the Millinery department which was then located on level two.  The vendor being showcased was Elizabeth Ford who was a New York hat designer who leased space out at Denholms.  The origional hatboxes were gold and white striped, with a gold rope handle.  I remember my grandmothers closet full of these hat boxes.  recently I was able to locate one at a Wrentham antique store.

Until the next post I would like to wish you all a very Happy easter!
Christopher