For this project, I was required to produce a window display based on the theme ‘Kitsch’. At first, I wasn’t completely sure about the theme, so I began by carrying out research on the high street. I looked at Christmas window displays and visual merchandising to see what was currently in the market and to find inspiration for my own design.
Alongside my research, I experimented with different ideas and materials, particularly paper crafts. I recorded these experiments in my sketchbook, which helped me develop my ideas and decide on the direction I wanted the final display to take. The research also gave me a better understanding of the brand I was designing for.
I discovered connections between the project, Utility and Liverpool, which inspired me to bring a strong Liverpool identity into my window display. I chose to use the famous Liver Birds as one of the main features because they are such a recognisable symbol of the city. I liked the idea of combining something traditionally associated with Liverpool with the colourful, playful and slightly over-the-top nature of Kitsch.
As well as designing the window display, I was required to create promotional materials that worked alongside it. I designed promotional cards using the Liver Bird imagery so that the whole project had a consistent Liverpool theme.
For the Christmas element, I also introduced the image of a pear, inspired by the Christmas song lyric ‘a partridge in a pear tree.’ I was really pleased with the final card design, although if I were completing the project again, I would make it even more playful and bring more Liverpool references into the design.
I also developed swing tags, a shopping bag and wrapping designs to accompany the window display. I wanted these to use strong colours and connect with the Pop Art influence of the display, creating a complete visual identity rather than treating the window as a standalone piece.
Interestingly, when I first received the Kitsch theme, I didn’t particularly like it. However, as the project developed, my opinion completely changed. I became really pleased with my final piece and especially enjoyed the craft and hands-on elements involved in creating it.
Looking back, this project taught me how research, experimentation, branding and local inspiration can all come together within visual merchandising. It also showed me that a theme I might not immediately connect with can become something I really enjoy once I start experimenting and putting my own creative personality into it.
