Nov 8, 2008 8:01 pm US/Central
Sign Of The Season: Macy's Unveils Holiday Windows
CHICAGO (CBS) ―
It's a sure sign of Christmas for Chicagoans -- Macy's holiday windows are now ready for viewing.
The windows at Macy's this year have an all-American look thanks to designer Tommy Hilfiger. CBS 2's Suzanne Le Mignot reports on the windows and Hilfiger's inspiration.
With the sound of applause, the Macy's holiday windows are unveiled. This year's theme is "Believe." The animated scenes showcase images of hope and wisdom, with the Windy City in mind.
"We love them; we think they're awesome and magical," said spectator Carol Steffgen. "I love the little sayings all relating to the city."
Justine Cody brought her three children to take in the sights.
"This kicks off our holiday season, especially this year, we have so much to be thankful for," she said.
Tabitha Brown brought 1-year-old Zyona to see the windows. This is her first Christmas.
"She smiles at everything she sees," Brown said. "She loves the windows, it's beautiful to her."
While many look at the animated figures in awe, some still wish for the past.
"Marshall Field's was the "it" store for my mom," Steffgen said. "So we would always come here. My mom passed away about five years ago and this whole thing has changed into Macy's since that time. I think she would have been really kind of crushed."
Meantime, the movement to rename the store, continues.
"Marshall Field's is a very unique reason to come to Chicago, so we'd like to restore that in terms of history, architecture, fashion, and culture," said Jim McKay of Field's Fan Chicago.
For many of the families coming to Macy's to see the holiday windows, they say this is just one part of their family tradition.
The second activity is the unveiling of the "Great Tree" in Macy's Walnut Room.
Fashion designer Tommy Hilfiger revealed the 2008 "Great Tree." The decorations adoring it, from the Raggedy Ann dolls to the toy planes, were all inspired by Hilfiger.
"The tree is about iconic America," Hilfiger said. "It is a tree depicting what my brand is all about. It's iconic, it's American, and it's fun with a lot of flavor."
Hilfiger says Chicago and Macy's on State Street will always have a special place in his heart. This is the first place Hilfiger showed his designs when he got his start more than 20 years ago. Now, his collections are sold exclusively in all 800 Macy's stores, nationwide.
Tommy Hilfiger and Mayor Daley are hoping people will do more than just look at the windows. Spending may be the key to reviving our economy.
During the tree lighting ceremony, Daley called on consumers to step up.
The mayor also said the outcome of Tuesday's election will also be a big confidence boost for the country.
(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
Jewish Celebrities
Click to enlarge
Stumble It!
Reporting
