Clever, edgy, irreverent - that’s how one might describe Simon Doonan. He’s the world’s most famous window dresser, creative-ambassador-at-large at Barneys, and the author of several books on his experiences in the world of high-fashion & glamour (Confessions of A Window Dresser & more).
I got introduced to Simon through the podcast Design Matters, and his interview was such a clutter-breaking delight to listen to, I had to share! Wicked, fun, bold & tongue-in-cheek - much like his approach to life.
Sharing 6 of his iconic window displays on the blog today! From metal scraps to Louboutins, to everything in between - have all found their way into a Simon Doonan display. “Try things that other people aren't doing and they'll automatically have some kind of impact."
Here’s links to Simon’s hugely entertaining TED Talk (on his unconventional career) & his talk at Moth (on being invited to decorate the White House Christmas Tree).
Onto the displays. Feast your eyes!
”Swimming with Louboutins”
To mark the opening of a new floor at Barney’s, dedicated solely to shoes, Doonan created this display of fish swimming amidst suspended Louboutins.
Pretty x Provocative
A mannequin in a dress perched on a pile of branches from the streets of New York.
“I was running out of money for the season, and I noticed they were cutting down trees,” said Simon.
A Creative Spin on the Ordinary
Starburst displays made from pantyhose.
“Everything was made out of something else, and that’s a signature thing I started doing that gave Barneys an edge,” Doonan said.
“Andy the Compulsive Collector”
When Andy Warhol died, Doonan created a display as a nod to the pop culture icon (and to the fact that it became known he was a bit of a hoarder!)
“We love SIR Paul Smith"
A nod to when designer Paul Smith was knighted by the Queen. Reams of ribbon were used to design the queen’s face.
“And The Awards Goes To” - To mark the partnership between hair care company Nexxus x the Tony Awards, Doonan created this display of a glamorous woman on stage, presenting an award. Her hair was made entirely of Nexxus hair care bottles, while her dress was designed out of Tony Awards posters.
Creative, absurd, weird & wonderful - wouldn’t you agree? Who else is inspired?
Image Credits: Art Observer, Zimbio, Pinterest, Pinterest, Getty Images
