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 Converse store's window display of repurposed high tops forming an American flag.

Converse store’s window display of repurposed high tops forming an American flag.

Ahh…the holidays! Because of this year’s Indian summer, they seemed to have sneaked up on us as if from out of nowhere. So, to get a jump on things, Matt and I took a Christmas recon-shopping trip to the poshed-out, reconstructed Santa Monica Place this past weekend. I will underline that we window shopped; Louis Vuitton, Hugo Boss and Tiffany will just have to wait a little longer. Regardless, we walked in and around with a no-fear confidence (mmmmkay?).

Within minutes, I noticed a plethora of fabulous window displays and in-store decor. Someone clearly had their ear to the current decor tracks, thoughtfully repurposed and custom furniture and fixtures were on display as much as the merchandise they were selling. I was so beside myself that I actually caught myself asking one of the sales associates, “How much is that repurposed Vintage Singer Sewing machine display in the window?” (Bewildered look…aaaaand…crickets.) Anywhoo…I thought y’all might enjoy seeing these ideas and hope they inspire you to display or make something similar. Happy election day!

Converse shoes closeup

Converse shoes closeup.

Converse shows its patriotic pride, as well as encouraging kids to vote by cleverly displaying their classic high top sneakers as an American flag. Btw-ya gotta check out their “design your own” Chucks shop right in the store (and available online)…it’s just too cool!

Industrial light-Converse store

Industrial light-Converse store.

Personalized chair-Converse store

Personalized chair-Converse store.

Converse’s design “cool factor” was seen throughout the store like this industrial, custom-made light fixture with Edison light bulbs and metal mesh. Old leather chairs are made new again by personalized messages and hand painted artwork. I especially loved this idea and upcycled this leather chair with car paint.

Repurposed basin planters-True Food Kitchen

Repurposed basin planters-True Food Kitchen.

When there’s only concrete surrounding your home or office space, something like this repurposed basin planter on wheels is a brilliant way to bring in “Mom”. True Food Kitchen ain’t lying…they’re displaying their real and fresh herbs and veggies before we even walk in the door…bam!

Vintage Akai 4 track recorder accessory-CB2

Vintage Akai 4 track recorder accessory-CB2.

Closeup of Akai 4 track recorder

Closeup of Akai 4 track recorder.

Of course we had to stop by one of our favies…CB2, where I instantly fell in love with this vintage Akai, reel to reel, 4-track tape recorder. Both Matt and I have recorded our own music on one of these bad-boys, though I didn’t have the heart to ask if it still worked. I’m just gonna say yes. I also marked it down on my own “Skaie Christmas List”. Here’s wishing…!

Repurposed Singer sewing machine display-Allsaints Co.Ltd

Repurposed Singer sewing machine display-AllSaints Co.Ltd.

Vintage Singer sewing machine closeup

Vintage Singer sewing machine closeup.

Repurposed studio lights-Allstaints Co. Ltd.

Repurposed studio lights-AllStaints Co. Ltd.

I’m not sure about you all, but, sometimes when I enter a store and I can smell how expensive it is! In the case of AllSaints Co Ltd., I kept my head about me by concentrating on their amazing use of vintage Singer sewing machines. The affect of their window display interestingly represented the vibe of their shop: moody, cool and ever so rich.

Hollywood glam was seen hanging from the ceilings with these repurposed (well, sort of) studio lights. Their mechanical extension arms added to their industrial mystique and functionality.

Photography by Skaie Knox, HomeJelly

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