I love window shopping during the holidays because all the department stores go all out, trying to be the most creative and captivating as possible. During my most recent trip to New York I had to go visit the Saks Fifth Avenue window displays as I heard they were integrating 3D technology to their holiday plans. Saks Fifth’s flagship location decided to go with a “Snowflake and Bubble” theme and on display was commissioned designers that included Stella McCartney, Proenza Schouler, Nica Ricci, Rag and Bone, Marchesa and Alexander McQueen.

You can not forget about the children (and we all have a little kid inside each and everyone of us). The most adorable thing is the feature on the children’s book, “Who Makes Snow?” and the funny looking Yeti plush toy. … more …

I’m going to keep this short and sweet. It really doesn’t need any explaining. Jason Wu is the next designer collaborating with retail giant Target. Mark your calenders, February 6, 2012 is the launch date.

Sunny Shum, Footwear Buyer, Blogger & Your Industry Insider | Follow me @partly_sunny

Designer digs for a fraction of the price. Yes please. Check out these outlets that offer heavily discounted luxury items from just a seasons or two past. Also, if you’re from the US or Canada and shopping at one of the outlets in Europe, don’t forget to claim your tax refund of 12% upon returning home.

Bicester Village - England
Brands: Agent Provocateur, Alexander McQueen, Anya Hindmarch, CELINE, Dior, Fendi, Gucci, Hugo Boss, Marni, Missoni, Moncler, Paul Smith, Prada, Roberto Cavalli, Salvatore Ferragamo, Thomas Pink, Tod’s, Vivienne Westwood, Yves Saint Laurent

Address: 50 Pingel Drive Bicester Oxfordshire OX26 6WD, England

Hotel Recommendation: Retire after a day of shopping at Coworth Park,  just 60 km. away from the outlet.

FoxTown Outlets, Mendrisio - Switzerland
Brands: Dior, Ferragamo, Jill Sander, Missoni, Prada, Valentino

Address: Via A. Maspoli 18. … more …

On Monday, November 1 The Bay welcomed another VIP designer guest to The Room in Toronto: Thakoon Panichgul.  The Thai-born American keeps in good company, appearing in The September Issue as Anna Wintour’s darling, collaborating with The Gap, and dressing Michelle Obama.  During his stop in Toronto Thakoon previewed his Spring/Summer 2011 line - a collection of easy whites, muted sorbets, and flowing dresses - and got to know stylish Torontonians Suzanne Rogers, Shinan Govani and Jeanne Beker.

Thakoon is available at The Room, 176 Yonge Street in Toronto.

Caitlin Agnew, Writer - Resides in Toronto and writes for www.christielohr.com / www.styleninetofive.com

Autumn fashion, how do I love thee? When I start to smell crisp air I start thinking of layering. Milan-based fashion designer, Marco Corso’s A/W 2010/11 collection displays this the best.

He uses a soft palette with a beautiful blend of textiles and textures. Every single piece is cut and sewn expertly and each separate can be worn with each other.

Sunny Shum, Your Industry Insider | Follow me @partly_sunny