i was in one of my favorite consignment stores today and was talking to the owner about how to display shoes.  when you’re not a shoe store – it’s not always easy to find the space.  so the shoes typically end up on the floor (which is a dusting/sweeping/mopping nightmare!).  i’ve decided to do a little sleuthing to see if i can find some helpful solutions for apparel stores which carry a selection of shoes to supplement their inventory.

1.  closet shoe rack (expandable):  a little utilitarian – but would look nice under a rack that sits high above the ground.  add some shelves on top – and you’ll have a nice little display.  it’s quite affordable – less than $25. 

2.  Portis shoe rack (Ikea):  this is a nice looking metal rack with a little feminine flair.  reminds me of the Aaron Contemporary fixtures – so if you use them, this would be a nice complement (also less than $25)

 

3.  Bamboo stackable shoe rack:  i like this because the shoes are at a slight angle -and it’s just a wee step up from the floor – so doesn’t take up much extra space.  plus, you can paint it to match your decor (only $15.99 each).

4. raw steel shoe displays (singles):  for really special shoes – you may want to invest in some displays that set them off.  these are among the few i could find.  they’re not cheap!

now….what to do about the boxes!  if you’re short on storage and are unable to store them off the sales floor (it’s hard to run back and get shoes if you’re the only one on the floor!) – try this little tip.  i bought the IKEA curtain wire & clips and then sewed a simple little “curtain” to hide the boxes under my garment rods.  it’s a simple and inexpensive solution.  i didn’t use any racks – but i only carried a handful of styles.  i simply merchandised them on shelves and tables with other items.

how do you display shoes in an apparel store?  would love to hear your ideas and see pics.

just got the CB2 catalog today.  of course, my mind is always thinking of how items could be used in a retail situation (can’t decorate the house- it’s just been done) as i fantasize about my next store.  until then – i shall share my ideas with you.  i’ve edited my selections to items under $20.  there are some really cool shelves and i LOVE the acrylic stuff - but they exceed my limit for the post.

1.  tree ring holder - cute, simple way to display a couple of rings and only $7.95.  more interesting than those little “fingers” you find in the jewelry display catalogs.

2.  whirly hanging candle holder:  um YES!  how cute would these be clustered in an area and holding small, precious things?  like bracelets or baby socks or a little card?  it would certainly draw attention.  or even a colorful scarf balled up – a different color in each ball.  super fun.  and only $3.95/each.

3.  ada hanging vase: i’m thinking hang a grouping of these on a wall and add some fun branches with lots of twigs.  then hang necklaces and bracelets and even earrings from them.  it would be very sweet.

4.  cuarto platters:  fill with dried lentilsl, peas, rice – whatever color works best with your decor – and then lay jewelry on top.  the look will be sleek and sophisticated.  and they’re very affordable at $1.95 – $14.95.

5.  dot wall hook:  nice punch of color for hanging the usual:  umbrellas, hats, scarves, handled bags, etc.  i like the modern sensibility with the whimsical color.  $19.95

 

i get so giddy when i walk into a Container Store.  it makes we want to organize!  and oh how nice it is to be organized with little drawers and baskets and files and…containers!  especially when they’re in fun colors and styles.  and even MORE so on sale.

the entire store is 25% off.  yes – the entire store.  if you ever wanted to get newly organized – now is the time.  enter “cluttercrew” at checkout if shopping online.

here’s a few of my favorites for boutiques:

1.  acrylic jewelry display – just lovely and simple so the jewelry can shine!  and the bracelet is only $9.99 during the sale.

2.  pivoting jewelry display - cute on the check out counter – fill with inexpensive items like lipgloss – or $10 rings and fun little brooches.

3.  large tint stacking drawer - great for storing extra size t-shirts and sweaters in your back room.  you can organize by designer/style, etc.

4.  brocade metal accessories – your store is a store – but it’s also your office.  no reason why your office organization shouldn’t be tres chic!  check out the whole range of items – so cute!  (these would also be cute as displays in a stationery store)

5.  mini magnetic strip - could be really cute in a dressing room to post photos and pics from magazines…or just as a place behind the counter for your personal use.  i love these.

 

happy shopping!  not sure when the sale ends….but have a  happy 4th of July everyone!  may your sales go off the hook  like pretty fireworks…

i like eclectic and retro.  i think they make a good combo (especially when mixed with modern).

i’ve sleuthed out a few amazing display items for you – but act quickly – they’re all one of a kind!

1.  mushroom jewelry display (from CraftyTreasures vintage)

so cute.  i’d put lots of gold or colorful baubles on this.  it seems an appropriate display for your more whimsical earrings.

2.  vintage card holder  (from Modish Vintage)

adorable vintage mail holder would be a precious way to display greeting/note cards or other items attached to cards.

3.  vintage ceramic swan (also from Modish Vintage)

i’m picturing a fancy little clutch nestled into the swan.  it would be irresistible!

4.  flapper hat stand (from Appel Jar)

this is so adorable!  imagine a chic little cloche tilted on her head.  you’d sell the hat – no problem (and everyone would want to buy the stand as well!).

5.  glossy yellow sconces (from Renaissance Vintage)

yummy!  i’d take these and hang handbags or a pretty scarf on them!  even a long, chunky necklace could enjoy the spotlight.  and – they can paint them another color if you like (but the yellow  – come on!  is so delish!)

Enjoy these finds – i will be doing more sleuthing soon.  what decor items would you like to see?  please comment!

**if you see broken images it’s ‘cos the item is long gone….sorry, charlie!

just got a sale notification from West Elm - most of their side tables are 15% off.  if you have the space – these side tables are great ways to display jewelry, accessories, shoes, note cards, etc.  i liked to use them for small, seasonal color stories or to highlight a key item.

they are lots of great, modern styles – i especially like the nesting hexagons in turmeric.  Fun!