Through the Looking Glass
'Tis the season of visual opulence; for proof, one need look no further than the nearest commercial shop window.
 
Late Wednesday evening, JCKstyle hit the mecca of all such commercial areas and there (amid the many tourists and cleverly disguised locals) we stood agape before the fruits of the visual merchandising gods: the windows of Fifth Avenue. From 57th to 39th Street, there are lines in front of many of the stores—some with brass bars and security, and others with chain link and pithy signs inviting viewers in—all under the light of the iconic Swarovski snowflake that hangs over Fifth Avenue for the season.
 
Overall, jewelers and department stores alike opted away from traditional "holiday" themes (nary a trace of tinsel to be found) and went for amazing displays that would wow passersby at any time of the year. An abridged rundown of what you will find, if so inclined to brave the cold:
 
Van Cleef & Arpels delivers a show of technological force with their window display, which is comprised of flat-screen televisions playing a loop of their winter ad campaigns. Effective, though a bit stolid.
 
Cartier wins the award for "Most Creative Use of Scaffolding." Unfortunately, Cartier's building is under construction, but that didn't dampen their cheer.
 
Bergdorf Goodman's display pays tribute to artist Tony Duquette. Along with monster-size baubles, the windows feature large snails, and a double-take-inducing dog that could be taken for a disco ball.
 
For more pictures and commentary on the window displays of Fifth Avenue, please visit the Style 360 blog.

Weekly Gem
Russell Simmons's Diamond Empowerment Fund's first charity auction, on eBay, kicked off yesterday and will run until Dec. 16. Along with jewelry and watches, look for items like a photo shoot with a celebrity or New York Yankees memorabilia from Derek Jeter. Proceeds from the auction will benefit DEF's education initiatives in Africa.
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