8 Tips to Creating Eye-Catching Retail Window Displays

If there was something you could do that would influence a customer’s buying decision by 24%, would you do it? What if we told you it all comes down to how you design your store's retail window displays? How much thought do you put into that part of your business?

Studies suggest that it really has the potential to impact a purchase decision by 24%. That means it’s probably a good idea to start thinking about what you can do to improve the window displays of your business.

Do you know how to create a display that will pull customers through your doors? Keep reading for some helpful visual merchandising tips that can help make a difference!

1. Tell a Story With Your Retail Window Displays

Stories are one of the oldest art forms. They allow you to connect with people on a different level.

You could easily display your products in a pretty way with simple decorations or a sale sign or two, but telling an engaging story can help you better connect with your audience.

For example, if you sell bathroom fixtures, you could create a display with candles, a bubble bath, and a mannequin relaxing in the bathtub.

This type of display can tell the story of self-care and relaxation. Stories that trigger other emotions like excitement, nostalgia, or aspiration can also be used.

The key is to establish a theme or idea. This could be linked to a trend, reflect your brand’s core values or align with the season.

One example is a family around a Christmas tree in December. Use props, colors, and arrangements that help build the story you want to tell.

2. Use Lighting and Color to Your Advantage

Whether its vibrant lights or soft and soothing ones each create a different mood.

Use lighting to highlight points in your presentation; this can include using a spotlight on a specific product or feature. Experiment with shadows and highlights for added depth and allure.

Every aspect of your lighting setup influences how customers perceive your products and brand. Different types of lighting to use include:

• Spotlights
• LED strips
• Colored lights
• Accent lighting
• SEG Lightboxes

Understanding color psychology can also help create certain feelings and emotions for your audience. Take time to explore different color palettes.

Use bright and bold colors to grab attention and create excitement. Use softer colors if you're looking for a feeling of elegance or sophistication.

You can also mix and match colors to create visual interest and contrast.

3. Surprise and Delight Your Customers

What makes your window display stand out from the rest? In a busy retail area like shopping malls or plazas, your customers could be walking by dozens of window displays.

How do you make sure you grab their attention? Try using unique and unexpected elements.

To do this, you can use unique materials or props. Antiques, plants, artwork, stuffed animals, the sky's the limit. You can also mix textures, colors, and shapes to make your display stand out.

For example, Saks is well-known for its elaborate window displays. However, in a collaboration with Vetements, they did something completely unexpected.

The entire window display was made up of a pile of old clothes.

Get creative and think beyond just the traditional dressed-up mannequin in a window. Use unusual items or repurpose everyday objects to spark curiosity.

4. Maintain Freshness in Your Retail Window Displays

Once you set up your retail window display how long do you leave it as is? Keeping the display for months on end will quickly lose its appeal.

Keep your display dynamic by changing it weekly or monthly. The frequency of changes really just depends on your availability and resources.

You don't have to make huge changes every time. Rearrange items, include new decorations. Even introduce new products.

The aim is to maintain the interest and attention of your customers.

5. Tell Your Brand’s Story

When people love a brand’s story, they’re 55% more likely to buy from that brand in the future. And around 15% of people will make a purchase immediately.

So why not integrate your brand story into your window display? You can use your brand colors and logo to show your unique selling proposition.

For example, if you're a water bottle company that donates a portion of its proceeds to a good cause, your window display can tell that story. You could also show the number of plastic bottles saved by purchasing your product.

There are so many unique ways to tell your brand story and make it part of your display. The possibilities are endless. And this will help leave a lasting brand impression on your audience.

6. Keep It Simple

One of the mistakes that some retailers make is overcomplicating things. A straightforward, neat and uncluttered presentation can still have a huge impact.

Highlight one or two products or a specific theme. Avoid bombarding customers with too much clutter and stimuli.

7. Use Fond Memories to Build Connections

What do you think about when you smell chocolate chip cookies baking? What about when you see snow falling or hear your favorite song playing in the background?

You can trigger sensory memories and build a deeper connection with potential customers by engaging the senses. Think about the emotional response you're trying to evoke.

Then, find ways to use elements that stimulate touch, smell, and sight to create eye-catching window displays.

8. Pull it All Together With High-Quality Banners and Signage

Imagine walking down the street and seeing a beautifully designed banner that showcases products and conveys the essence of your brand.

The right banners and signage in your window can help draw attention to focal points and provide important information.

You can use colors and fonts to tie different pieces together and build on your aesthetic.

Build Retail Window Displays That Boost Your Business

Creating eye-catching window displays can help attract customers and increase foot traffic. And you need the right banners, signage, window graphics, and more before you get started on your display.

That's where Blast Media comes in. We're here to be your advertising partner. We create high-quality signage and promotional products that help you grab the attention of your potential customers. Let us help tell your story. Contact us today to learn more and take your window displays to the next level!