David Jones' annual Sydney Christmas window display has received mixed reviews this year, prompting awe in some and unease in others.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Passers-by said the display's Victorian-era theme and sense of classic glamour seemed more "adult-like" and "mature" than those in previous years, making some question whether kids would still be glued to the scenes over the holiday season.
"It's definitely an adult, mature vibe, and it's slightly ominous and creepy," 25-year-old Sydney resident Laura Webster said.
"I am kind of terrified of dolls, but the owl perched in above one scene doesn't look particularly friendly. I think they might be trying to go for a peaceful look, but it's coming across like it's observing you."
Others enjoyed the retailer's return to a classical-style Christmas. The finely detailed characters and elegant props were reminiscent of an old and beautiful dollhouse, stirring nostalgia in some of the adults peering in.
Classical orchestra music added to this sense of old grandeur, although some of the tunes seemed to incorporate a pop-style beat with which young children would be more familiar.
"The design of it is Victorian, so it's a very classical Christmas, which is a change from some of the modern ones," 47-year-old Maggie Mckeown said.
"I have a nine-year-old daughter and I can't wait to bring her down at night when it's got atmosphere, lights, and you can hear the music more over the traffic."
Mary Mckeown, 73, was just relieved that this year's display wasn't reminiscent of the retailer's 2015 windows, which featured store merchandise and plain, black and white stencils that were gradually coloured in over the holiday season.
The windows sparked uproar among those who come to see the display annually as a family tradition, with many describing the scenes as "disappointing" and not reflective of the Christmas spirit.
"I did not like that one at all. It was horrible," Mary Mckeown said.
David Jones' Christmas windows were officially launched at 11am on Thursday at its Elizabeth Street store in Sydney.
Santa made a special appearance at the event, which attracted more than 100 children and their carers.
