Holiday Shopping Notebook: Scenes From The Malls

The Associated Press

NEW YORK (AP) — It may just be coming up on Halloween to the casual observer, but for retailers, more wintry holidays have already arrived. How some major retailers are displaying holiday wares so far this year:

J.C. Penney turns to nostalgia

The department store chain's new Manhattan location showcases what it calls "Red Box" gifts, which focus on home and nostalgia.

Highlighted items include $129 Lionel battery-powered train sets; $39.99 Lincoln Logs Commemorative editions; $89.99 turntables and $149 popcorn makers.

New this holiday are stocking stuffers like colorful water bottles and miniature puzzles under the Red Box banner. In home entertainment, Penney is pushing its store brand called Cooks, particularly its three-section buffet warmer.

The item has been discounted to $39.99, from $59.99. As for festive wear for girls, Penney is offering traditional party dresses in tartan plaid or velvet that are marked down 50 percent.

Overall in apparel, there's a heavy emphasis on red and black as well as animal prints. And Penney hopes to attract new shoppers with a growing portfolio of exclusive brands that now include Allen B. by Allen B. Schwartz and I Heart Ronson By Charlotte Ronson.