Video/Design
Recently, I have been struck by two entirely unrelated sites that use video as a design/catalog element. I realize that I am taken by how video becomes a nicely integrated element, versus a piece of the layout that simply stands apart. As both of these sites are garment oriented, the use of video really allows the “looks” or objects themselves to come to live.
Madewell 1937 : http://www.madewell1937.com
The video element of this landing page was a pleasant surprise. I saw the outfits loading, and liked the tile effect, but then one of the lasses came alive! Rather exciting… Inside the site, the video is not as seemlessly integrated, although a nice mouse effect allows for a different type of “zoom in” experience on each of the looks. Clicking on “See Video” brings back the tile effect with motion (I particularly appreciate that the videos run just a wee bit out of synch, which helps to alleviate any feeling of repetition).
Holden Outerwear : http://www.holdenouterwear.com/
Video comes into the picture once you have loaded the site (be patient, it is worth it!). Turn on your sound, as well: this site is a great argument for the power of sound design in the web experience! Each category is introduced by a video demonstration of features (white gloved, no less) — an incredibly good idea for showing off the value of small details. The catalog shots looked rather typical, until I realized that rolling over an item started a video of the piece in action. Rolling off pauses the video — hence, the experience is much less jolting than if the video reset to the beginning. Overall, I love how the video gives me a feeling of being in these clothes — a powerful, empathetic feeling that inspired me to buy the ECO Peabody Jacket. My only complaint: I first lost my heart to the red version, but the “buy online” link is a generic one, and I had no luck finding the red anywhere online or off.