Last week my husband and I were invited to attend a special event at Louis Vuitton for their Exhibition Series 2, which featured the inspirations for the third ready-to-wear collection from fashion designer Nicolas Ghesquière. It was a perfect opportunity to wear this gorgeous number I found at a vintage shop a few months ago. I am a firm believer that every woman should own at least one dress that makes her feel like a movie star, and this one does just that for me–it’s definitely a piece that I plan on having in my closet for many years. A classic yet elegant dress always speaks for itself, so I kept the rest of my look very simple with neutral accessories. Continue reading below for some inside scoop on the exhibition, plus a few sneak peeks from the 2015 Fall-Winter collection!
- Dress (Escada; similar)
- Sandals (Stuart Weitzman; more colors here)
- Bag (Louis Vuitton)
- Lip (Chanel ‘La Romanesque’)
Louis Vuitton Exhibition Series 2 :: May 29, 2015
One of the best things about living in Rome is being surrounded by the biggest couture houses in the world and having the opportunity to attend special fashion events in the city. Louis Vuitton’s Exhibition Series 2 was a reinterpretation of the Spring-Summer 2015 fashion show, as well as a tribute to the history of the legendary brand. The event began after the museum in Palazzo Ruspoli was closed to the public for the evening and we were met at the door by Noemi, the Louis Vuitton sales associate who had invited us. The exhibit ended in the store, where we were met with champagne and appetizers, all while shopping and socializing. It was an extremely unique experience, and one I feel fortunate to have had. The exhibition in Rome will be open to the public each day from 11:00 A.M. to 7:00 P.M. through June 7th, before it makes its final stop in London.
We were able to witness the creation of a trunk, the miniature form of one of the brand’s iconic pieces, with the same hardware many Louis Vuitton bags have today. There are more than 100 steps which must be completed (by hand) to make each one!
This large wall depicted scenes taken by French photographer Jean-Paul Goude backstage during the pre-fashion show as a tribute to the energy and excitement that takes place just before the lights go up on the runway.
Shown here are a few accessories from the Spring-Summer 2015 collection–the incredibly unique green croc satchel was my favorite! A great quote from the designer about accessories:
“I have always loved creating accessories. For me, they are always connected to the collection, they hold an integral place in the creation of an ensemble, either juxtaposing or complementing the outfit.” – Nicholas Ghesquière
The accessories gallery was washed in stark white, which allowed the Spring-Summer pieces worn by the mannequins to really pop. This portion of the exhibition was created using 3D figures of model Marte Mei van Haaster.
Since 1854, when Louis Vuitton first went into business as a trunk maker, the brand has translated a spirit of travel with legendary trunks and luggage pieces. The above photo depicts the felt-lined and compartmentalized trunk which actress Greta Garbo used to carry her shoes when she traveled–now that’s my kind of suitcase! The quality and design that went into these pieces is apparent, especially on one this old, which is why Louis Vuitton became the iconic design house it is today.
Moving from vintage to modern, the most current Louis Vuitton trunks that can be purchased today still look quite similar to the original styles.
Shown here are a few pieces from the new Fall-Winter collection: although they are all gorgeous, I am OBSESSED with the purple python mini satchel!
My husband had me pause for a moment during the party to take a photo with a few friends I’ve made at the store, Claudia and Noemi. These ladies are very knowledgeable about Louis Vuitton and will go out of their way to help you find anything. (At this point, I had already changed my shoes–I always bring a backup pair because as much as I love them, I can’t hang in 4.5 inch stilettos if I’m going to be on my feet for more than a few hours!)
If you happen to visit Rome, be sure to stop by this store to wander the three extensive floors packed with classic and current couture items. Although there are several Louis Vuitton boutiques in the city, the size and selection here is by far the most impressive!
