ST. LAURENT du VAR, France, Jul 14, 2005/ FW/ --- Monte Carlo, the playground of the rich and famous. Located at the Principality of Monaco, which is synonymous to Monte Carlo to most people, both Monte Carlo and Monaco evoke a magical dream world.

An independent state in the heart of Europe, it has been ruled by the Grimaldi family for the past 700 years, the latest monarch being H.S.H. Prince Albert II who ascended to the throne last Tuesday, July 12, 2005.

With its dynamic economy, Monaco and Monte Carlo has become an international investment center under the reign of H.S.H Prince Rainier.

With a population of less than 30,000, the visitors to Monaco, be it tourism or business oriented are an integral part of the principality’s economy. Being the favorite of the world’s jet set group, it is not a surprise that luxury fashion houses are represented well in Monte Carlo.

Chanel, one of the best-known French fashion house chose to use realistic mannequins in its store windows instead of its signature black headless forms.

As most visual merchandisers already know, realistic mannequins are still the best choice when displaying high fashion garments in store windows because it gives a total look.

Celine, another French fashion house is having its “change of season” sale as announced in its store windows. Using two white forms and plexiglass risers, soft goods and accessories were displayed.

Interestingly enough, the current collection is displayed using orange and purple as the main color palette. With a bigger than life orange ribbon as the focal point of the display, it is more than enough to attract the attention of the passersby.

Gucci opted for a high tech window using glass and crystal as background with ‘Boarding’ and ‘Exit’ in yellow lights, creating movement in the display.

Showing both male and female headless mannequins, the ‘shadow’ of a girl walking created with the crystal mosaic gave a feeling of luxury.

Roman designer Valentino chose to show handbags and accessories in one window and clothes in another.

Using wooden risers attached directly to the wall, each handbag / accessory was highlighted accordingly. Though the window showed 15 items, it did not look cluttered. The presentation was tight and focused.

The window displaying clothes used the same wood background, without the risers; hence the two headless mannequins became the focal point. Again, the display was very tight and focused.

Chanel

Chanel

Chanel

Chanel

Gucci

Gucci