CHRISTMAS AND SPRING: The window installations in Prada's historical Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II store are the first in a string of one-of-a-kind displays planned for the shop for next year. Right now, the windows feature a festive Christmassy feel with a nod to summer — there's a huge carillon with a mirrored cylindrical structure and sculptured wood decorations adorned with hand-painted floral motifs that keep rotating thanks to a sophisticated movement. The mannequins ensconced within the music box are clad in Prada's new spring looks of form-fitting tops over full, high-waisted skirts with floral prints.

JANET BROWN'S FATE: Janet Brown appears to be hanging on by a thread. The chic Port Washington, N.Y., retailer, whose owner died last March of a heart attack, is still being phased out, but the end is in sight. Elaine Edelstein, Brown's sister who is handling her affairs, said Tuesday that the store is still operating (although on a very sporadic schedule) and she's still selling off all the fall merchandise, but no new orders have been coming in. Clothing racks with reduced merchandise lined the sidewalk last weekend. Edelstein, who has been commuting from Philadelphia, said she doesn't plan to remain open in the new year.