Is Ralph Lauren’s interactive holiday window the coolest one in NYC?
Although Saks cancelled its iconic holiday light show after 20 years, the season in New York still feels as magical as ever: stunning Christmas window displays have already taken over the city, including a Wicked-themed one at Bloomingdale’s that we wish could stay up all year long.
We must admit, though, that Ralph Lauren may have won this year’s unofficial holiday window competition by sheer invention with its interactive display at the 888 Madison Avenue store by 72nd Street, which is sure to stop you in your tracks when walking around the area.
The brand’s legendary Polo Bear is the subject of the super-cute activation. Dressed in a festive tuxedo and set within an Art Deco-inspired Manhattan penthouse overlooking Central Park and the NYC skyline, the icon is actually brought to life as a 3D digital rendering that interacts with folks passing by by waving at them, taking “selfies,” blowing kisses and even showing off his dance moves. A true display of festivity!
You’ll also notice a number of items from Ralph Lauren’s coveted home collection, including a sleek Duke bar cart with the classic Langley crystal martini glasses and Montgomery barware on top of it.
“Developed in collaboration with CINIMOD, a leading innovation studio, the installation leverages bespoke AI technology and six months of intensive development to render the Polo Bear in incredible fidelity and achieve extraordinary realism and responsiveness,” reads a press release.
Similar activations have also taken over its Chicago, London and Tokyo flagships.
It’s not even Thanksgiving yet but we’re ready to see NYC’s holiday windows come alive!