Worlds (and decades) divide the blooming neon exuberance of Louis Vuitton's Stephen Sprouse tribute collection and the house's soberly chic pre-fall lineup, which, said women's studio director Peter Copping, was inspired by a book on Paris during World War II. Pretty print day dresses and bustier-topped party looks were shown on models who wore their hair in Veronica Lake waves, accessorized with brooches made of wood, papier-mâché, and pearls, and sported beaded socks that alluded to 1940's hosiery shortages. A sporty drawstring-waist topper and a sexy pair of skinny jersey ski pants added a modern element to the retro mood.
