Types of Window Displays that will Drive Foot Traffic This Spring!

Spring is right around the corner, and it's time to start thinking about updating your window displays. As the weather warms up and people start to venture outside again, this is the perfect opportunity to showcase your store's latest products and designs.

Window displays are the first thing that your customers see when passing by your store, so it's important to keep them fresh and up to date. A well-executed window display can increase foot traffic, boost sales, create a buzz around your store and, of course, make these potential customers more likely to stop in and check out what you have to offer.

Types of Window Displays

There are several types of window display setups that retailers can use to attract and engage customers. Here are a few common types of windows display setups that you can use for your store: 

• Open Window Display -  An open window display is a type of visual merchandising that is defined by the absence of walls or screens behind the display. This allows shoppers to see directly through the display and into the store beyond, creating a seamless visual experience. Open-back displays are commonly used in large retail spaces, such as department stores. This type of display is effective for highlighting new products or promotions and can encourage customers to explore the store further.

• Closed Window Display - A closed window display is a type of setup that is characterized by solid walls or screens that separate the display from the rest of the store. This type of display is often used in smaller retail spaces or boutique stores to create a focal point for customers to engage with. Closed displays can also create a physical barrier between the customer and the rest of the store, which can make it a bit harder for the potential customer to get a sense of the store offerings from the sidewalk.

• Semi-Closed-Back Window Display - A semi-closed-back window display is one where the stores are partially visible from the outside. For example, the display may feature a mannequin or product set against a solid backdrop, with other products visible through an open section of the display. Semi-closed displays can create a sense of intrigue and mystery and can be effective for showcasing new or limited-edition products. However, it is important to strike the right balance between openness and exclusivity to ensure that customers are encouraged to engage with the display and explore the store further.

• Elevated Window Display - An elevated window display is one where the products are raised off the ground and displayed at different heights. This means products might be displayed on a plinth, pedestal, table, or shelving. Great for: creating visual interest and highlighting specific products.

Steps to Creating Your Own Window Display for Spring

1. Start with a Story - Begin by creating a story-based theme or colour palette for your window display. Think about the spring feeling you want to evoke in your customers and what products you want to highlight for the season.

2. Rough Sketch - Once you have your theme or colour palette, rough sketch your ideas to create a focal point. This can be a mannequin dressed in the latest spring fashion or a colourful display of spring flowers.

3. Plan Bold or Whimsical Moments - Plan for bold or whimsical moments in your display by incorporating colourful props, creative signs, or posters. This will draw the customer's eye and create a sense of fun and excitement.

4. Plan Sightlines - Consider the sightlines of your display to ensure that everything is visible and easy to see at eye level. Use props and signage to create a clear path for the customer's eye to follow.

5. Create Balance and Keep it Simple - Create balance by using odd numbers of products or props and keeping the display simple. Too many products or props can be overwhelming and take away from the overall effect.

6. Consider Lighting - Lighting is essential for creating the right mood and highlighting specific products. Use spotlights, backlights, and coloured stripe led lights to create a dramatic effect.

7. Plan Product/Merchandise Placement - Finally, plan the placement of your products and merchandise to create an easy flow for customers to navigate. Strategically place products and merchandise in the window and highlight the latest spring trends or products to draw customers in and entice them to make a purchase.

Spring is a season of renewal and growth and what better way to celebrate it than by incorporating some of nature’s most beautiful elements into your window displays? Here are some spring themes/ideas we’d like to leave with you:

• May Flowers: Perfect for showcasing your latest floral prints and accessories. The focal point of this display should be fresh flowers, whether it's a floral arrangement, potted plants, or a flower-covered backdrop. Use bright and bold colours that evoke the feeling of spring, such as pinks, purples, yellows, and greens. Check out these oversized flower window decals we love from Etsy: 1 , 2, 3.
  April Showers: This display is all about creating a rainy mood, perfect for featuring your latest rainwear. Play with the lighting to simulate the feeling of a rainy day, such as using blue-tinted lights, raindrop garland, or hanging open umbrellas.

• The Garden theme: Create a garden space within your display by using faux grass or sod as a base and adding in flowers or small shrubs. Great for featuring gardening tools, planters, and seeds while creating a garden space within your display with faux grass.

Whether you are looking to showcase your latest products or create a playful and whimsical atmosphere, our NOLA Team is here to help you bring your vision to life and drive foot traffic to your store. Be sure to check our À-La-Carte services and contact us today to get started on your spring window display!