Green Inspiration from the Mall!?!

Anthropologie showcases an immense wire hanger mobile even Joan Crawford would love

I’ve always gathered inspiration from the creative visual merchandising in my favorite boutiques. I’m not talking about the outfits on the mannequins, but the dramatic backdrops and decorative objects that complement the clothing and accessories. To the salesgirls’ discomfort, I sometimes lurk for half an hour, just staring at the walls and ceiling, cracking how those clever visual managers did it.

I got breathy at my local Anthropologie recently when I looked around through green-colored glasses. Recycling and upcycling were everywhere! Grocery bags, clothes hangers, coffee filters, and other household duds were transformed into beautiful decor.

In this economy, it makes sense that merchandising teams are thinking like eco crafters. With shrinking store budgets, they’re looking to cheap, accessible items for their materials. And while they’re getting paid to craft scrappy, those innovative ideas are free for the taking. So tune in to the background when you’re shopping; green inspiration is everywhere, even the mall!

Beehives woven from plastic bags adorn the windows

Cushions sewn from grocery bags

Dyed coffee filter flowers