Charmaine
An Unlikely Story
Charmaine loved to play dress up as a little girl. She would explore her mother’s closets and the attic looking for special clothing and jewelry she could put on and pretend she was someone else. Oh the stories she would act out. No need for friends. She was so content with her imagination and the parts she played. She was especially drawn to the gowns embroidered with bugle beads and sequins. Feather boas and necklaces all sparkly with rhinestones and pearls.
When mama took her shopping to a department store they would sometimes get separated. Mama didn’t panic because she knew exactly where to find her. Follow the glitter and the feathers and there would be Charmaine entranced.
For this Bergdorf Goodman 2012 Holiday window display Charmaine was feeling nostalgic as she recreated one of her childhood dress up stories complete with the beaded gown and glittering baubles. She struck this pose to get into the mood.
Mannequin Reflections - Behind the Glass
Imagine standing before a stunning window display, a world of fantasy and glamour frozen in time. The mannequins, seemingly alive, pose amidst intricate sets, a testament to the artistry of the designer.
This was the inspiration for my blog series, Mannequin Reflections. Armed with nothing more than my iPhone, I began capturing these captivating scenes, drawn to the unique interplay of light and reflection.
As I experimented with different angles and perspectives, I realized that the glass itself was an integral part of the story. It acted as a mirror, reflecting the world outside and creating a mesmerizing blend of reality and illusion.
It was in these reflections that I found my muse. I began to envision the lives of these mannequins, the stories they could tell if only they could speak.