Inspired by: Louis Vuitton S/S 09

Perhaps it's just us, but whenever we think of Louis Vuitton, certain things come to mind—like timeless luxury and classically chic pieces. This season, our word associations were blown to pieces, as the spring collection showcased a striking, sumptuous, and super relevant amalgam of global and historical influences. Marc Jacobs, Vuitton's design maestro, offered up a visual feast, showing looks that combined forties Parisian glamour with global bazaar accents in an incredibly inspiring way. (Accessory lovers will be particularly aflutter, as each ensemble was festooned to the hilt with belts, bags, and bracelets.) Though we’re not likely to shell out for the runway ensembles any time soon, we do think that Jacobs' diverse and decorative vision makes a perfect muse for today’s Inspired By story. After much reconnaissance work, we’re confident that we tracked down the best Louis Vuitton-like pieces around, so please read on for all the spoils of our search!



1. Dear Creatures Sharon Shorts ($117, 773.395.2351)
While there were loads of different skirt and trouser options at Louis Vuitton, one paper-bag skirt really stood out from the rest of the runway pack. Naturally we flipped when we found a pleat-detailed pair of denim shorts with a similar look for a much more sensible price!

2. Anthropologie Oscillating Coral Necklace ($48)
One of the most dazzling components of the Louis Vuitton look was the heavy usage of tribal-art accessories. You can achieve a similar effect by scooping up jewelry with an equally dramatic and earthy look, such as this necklace by Anthropologie. We adore the fanning configuration of the coral pendants, while the wood beads and cotton jersey strands add a natural element to this bold piece.

3. Sue Stemp Bolero Dress ($925)
The silhouette of this Sue Stemp dress reminds us so much of the high hemlines, cinched waists, and strong shoulders from the LV show, we simply had to include it! The frock’s sheer top and luxurious, metallic silk-taffeta skirt combine to create a look that perfectly encompasses the Deco-era Parisienne woman Jacobs sent strutting down the catwalk.

4. bebe Katrin Leather Exotic Sandal ($149)
Well played, bebe! The Katrin Sandal manages to deliver the look of the original—in all its feathered, bedazzled, beaded glory—at a more reasonable price point. Wear it with simple jewel tone pieces to highlight the exotic and intricate details.

5. Topshop Striped Sweater ($44)
Wondering what to wear with your paper-bag shorts and bright minis? How about something simple and chic, like this blue-striped sweater from Topshop? An unfussy crew neck jumper is an ideal partner to these pieces because its jaunty horizontal stripes add some sporty simplicity to the statement-making Louis Vuttion look.

6. Topshop Leather Barrel X Body Bag ($135)
The handbags from Louis Vuitton’s spring runway came in a dizzying array of saturated colors, but there was a constant throughout the entire range: tassel embellishments! Accordingly, when we spotted Topshop’s red-orange barrel bag (the drawstring shape is also very current), complete with a super long strap and tassel details, we squealed in delight! Snap it up today, we have a feeling this killer bag won’t last long…

7. Sam Edelman Oceana Sandal ($163)
If the first shoe we showed you is a bit too bold for your taste, consider this slightly subtler variation from Sam Edelman. The combination of different textures (snakeskin, braiding), thick wood heel, and beaded embellishments gives this sandal official safari-chic status!

8. Assorted Bangles ($5.80-$45)
Before sending the models down the runway, Jacobs decked their arms with numerous, chunky, colorful bangles. Happily, there are loads of equally festive options available in stores right now. We picked three of our favorites for today’s story: Kenneth Jay Lane’s Thin Coral Bangle ($40, 877.953.5264), Forever 21’s Leopard Lucite Bangle ($5.80), and Kenneth Jay Lane’s Thick Turquoise Bangle ($45, 877.953.5264).

9. Rojas High Waisted Bubble Skirt ($120)
The Louis Vuitton look requires a few things: animal prints, strong colors, sheer details, and metallics, metallics, metallics! You can get a bit of that runway glitz with this silver lamé bubble skirt by Rojas. It’s a smartly designed piece, complete with two concealed front pockets and a nifty cummerbund-like high waist!

10. bebe Obi Feather Belt ($69)
Obi belts abounded at LV, so we sleuthed out a high street version of this high fashion item! Use it to cinch in an oversized blazer, adorn the waist of a bubble mini skirt, or compliment a high-waisted pair of slouchy trousers. It comes in one size and has two long ties, so you can customize it to fit at the waist or lower on the hip.