Across the globe, department stores transform into festive wonderlands, showcasing dazzling decorations that bring the spirit of Christmas to life. These stores, adorned with twinkling lights, elaborate displays, and themed decorations, turn our homes into havens of holiday magic. Here's a glimpse into some of the most spectacular Christmas displays around the world.
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Rinascente, Milan, Italy
A symbol of luxury shopping, Rinascente has a long tradition of embracing seasonal festivities with flair. Located in Piazza Duomo, its windows offer inspiring displays that help make homes warm and inviting. For the true Christmas enthusiast, the sixth floor, known as The Christmas Factory, features an impressive collection of 16,000 nutcrackers, Neapolitan nativity scenes, and delectable Christmas treats, including the essential Italian Pandoro and Panettone.
Les Galeries Lafayette, Paris, France
The Parisian department store is famed for its iconic Christmas tree beneath the grand glass dome. Celebrating its 130th anniversary in 2024, Galeries Lafayette features displays that blend luxury and creativity, with this year's windows showcasing designs by up-and-coming talent Kevin Germanier. The Champs-Élysées, with its sparkling lights, adds to the city's holiday allure.
Selfridges, London, UK
An essential destination for Christmas shopping, Selfridges on Oxford Street embodies a maximalist approach to festivity. The 2024 theme, 'The More the Merrier!', emphasises abundance with glittering decorations, Christmas crackers, festive puddings, and unique baubles, such as those inspired by Queen Elizabeth II's corgis. Its window displays, a collaboration of artists like Andrew Logan and Charles Jeffrey, add a touch of British eccentricity.
Bronner's Christmas Wonderland, Michigan, USA
The world's largest Christmas store, Bronner's, is a marvel located in Frankenmuth, Michigan. Stocking over 50,000 Christmas decorations and gifts, the store is a festive spectacle in itself, illuminated by 100,000 lights. Bronner's also features the Silent Night Memorial Chapel, a tribute to the birthplace of the beloved carol.
House of Holiday, New York, USA
A leader in sustainable holiday décor, House of Holiday offers an extensive range of real and artificial Christmas trees. Its catalogue also includes countless ornaments, garlands, and lights, catering to all festive preferences.
Käthe Wohlfahrt, Rothenburg, Germany
Renowned for traditional German Christmas decorations, Käthe Wohlfahrt in Rothenburg is famed for wooden ornaments, nutcrackers, and nativity scenes. The store reflects the town's medieval charm, becoming a festive highlight for those seeking traditional décor.
Inge-Glas Manufaktur, Germany
This artisan glass manufacturer produces exquisite Christmas decorations, including hand-blown glass items. While traditional colours like green, red, and white are staples, 2024's new trends incorporate pastel shades and bold pink-black combinations.
Illums Bolighus, Copenhagen, Denmark
Located in central Copenhagen, Illums Bolighus embodies the minimalist Scandinavian approach with a range of sleek, modern Christmas decorations. It stocks iconic brands such as Iittala, Georg Jensen, and Royal Copenhagen.
J. & L. Lobmeyr, Vienna, Austria
With a history of over 200 years, Lobmeyr is known for its glass and crystal designs. Its festive collection includes carafes and glasses for Christmas dining, as well as sparkling chandeliers that bring a touch of luxury to the season.
Yuzawaya, Tokyo, Japan
While Christmas is not a traditional Japanese holiday, Yuzawaya in Tokyo has embraced it with a selection of festive items. This large craft and DIY store offers everything from wrapping paper to handmade decorations, adding a unique twist to holiday shopping.
Source: www.salonemilano.it