Window Licking Fun in Victoria, British Columbia!
“The French phrase for "window shopping" is lèche-vitrine — literally, “window licking.” In Paris, big department stores compete with one another for the most fabulous window displays of animation and whimsy. French parents dress up their kids and come from all over the country to compare the windows of the three great Parisian department stores: Galeries Lafayette, Printemps, and Bon Marché. Thoughtfully, the stores provide wooden steps at the windows so that even the tiniest tot can get a good view.” Rick Steves
This is not only true in Paris but in many major cities like Chicago, London and New York, especially at Christmas time. The retail windows are like mini art galleries and become fun free tourist attractions. This used to happen in Canada’s downtown department stores - Eatons, The Bay, Sears, etc., but sadly no more.
But you can still do some “window licking” if you are willing to be more creative. Over the past 30+ years, I have enjoyed “window licking” in almost every city I have visited. In fact, one of my first blogs back in 2013 was about “window licking” in Paris.
I am addicted to the surrealistic collages created by the reflection of the street, buildings, cars, transit, people and objects in storefront windows. I love the thrill of the hunt for “window-licking” opportunities.
Here are some “window-licking” postcards from our recent trip to Victoria. I hope you enjoy them as much as I did.
Last Word
I have often lamented about the loss of the early and mid-20th century tradition of “window dressing” in Canada’s major department stores and retailers along pedestrian streets. Having an engaging window is a great way to enhance the pedestrian experience and get people to stop and perhaps come in to shop.
Perhaps some business association Executive Director will read this and initiate a “Window-Licking” Festival as a means of attracting more people to visit their shops, cafes and restaurants year-round.