How New York Fashion Stores Used Window Displays to Captivate and Inspire in the Late 1970s and ’80s

In the late 1970s and 1980s, New York City fashion stores had some of the most eye-catching window displays. These displays reflected the bold and eclectic styles of the era, making the city’s streets vibrant and exciting.

The 1980s were all about making a statement with fashion. Bright colors, bold patterns, and dramatic silhouettes were everywhere. Fashion icons like Joan Jett and Joan Collins inspired people to take risks with their style. This daring spirit was captured perfectly in the window displays of the time.

Emanuel Antsis photographed these window displays, preserving a visual history of this unique period. His photos show a range of styles, from punk rock to high glamour. Walking past these windows, you would see a mix of ripped tights and biker jackets alongside polished oversized blazers and poof skirts.

One standout element of the 1980s fashion was the use of bright colors. Neon pinks, electric blues, and vibrant yellows were common. Store windows often featured mannequins dressed in these eye-catching hues, drawing people in from the street. The colors were often paired with bold patterns like zebra stripes or polka dots, making the displays even more striking.

Silhouettes were also a key part of 1980s fashion. Shoulder pads were a major trend, creating a powerful and structured look. Mannequins in window displays often wore jackets and blazers with exaggerated shoulders, showcasing this popular style. Alongside these power suits, you might see poof skirts and dresses with voluminous shapes, adding to the dramatic effect.

#1 Show window, Manhattan, 1979

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#2 Ancient greek with ties from 5th Ave., 1979

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#3 In clouds, New York, 1979

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#4 By expressing emotion, New York, 1980

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#5 Fashion in New York, 1980

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#6 Fashion in New York, 1980

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#7 Happy woman, New York, 1980

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#8 In Chinatown, New York, 1980

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#9 Modern style of women, New York, 1980

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#10 Sale!, New York, 1980

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#11 Show window performance, New York, 1980

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#12 Yellow ball, New York, 1980

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#13 Four mannequins, New York, 1982

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#14 Fashion in New York, 1982

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#15 Mannequin also could be lonely, New York, 1982

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#16 New York, circa 1980s

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#17 Silver woman, Manhattan, 1980s

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