If it is possible, New York this December was  sparkling and glittering even more than last year. How fortuitous, as this “New York Windows” post has become a reader’s favorite. There’s nothing quite like the Big Apple’s hustle and bustle, Christmas tunes wafting through the air, and temptations in every store window to put you in a festive mood.

“Bergdorf Goodies” was 2018’s theme for their latest windows, continuing their tradition of fantastical storytelling… a celebration of all things sweet. What’s not to love about that?

From gingerbread creations…

To cotton candy fashion…

To neon confections.

But the impressive show, I must say, was at Saks Fifth Avenue, where the entire facade was a technicolor show of lights and shapes synchronized to favorite tunes (cue Liza Minnelli). You have to really want to see this to put yourself in the massive crush of (well-behaved) onlookers, but it was worth it (the good news? I didn’t drop my cell phone).

And the smaller shops and boutiques along “the Avenue” did a very good job of trying to keep up.

Henri Bendel’s colorfully charming ode to New York’s architecture and landmarks are also a way to say goodbye to a city that has been its home since the 1960s.

At this time of the year, Cartier’s traditional red awnings are joined by a large glittering bow (I wish they would leave it up year ’round) and their signature panther climbing up the corner.

The re-designed Bulgari’s facade includes an entrance that recalls faceted diamonds.

Van Cleef’s little window are always studies in refined elegance.

The action wasn’t just on Fifth Avenue, though. Madison Avenue now boasts a parade of large crystal snowflakes suspended above the street. And Ralph Lauren’s two emporiums on the corners of 72nd and Madison have windows that are always delicious (added to that visual treat is the chic, festive coffee bar pop-up on the first floor).

Wishing you a joy-filled holiday for 2018.