Empire State of Mind

Louis Vuitton puts its rich history on dazzling display in Manhattan

- SAM COCHRAN

Historically speaking, trunk shows have always been moments to introduce luxury treasures to fresh eyes, as traveling designers took their wares on the road. Today, Louis Vuitton has put its own ambitious spin on that tradition in midtown Manhattan, wrapping its Fifth Avenue flagship (now under renovation) in a temporary façade that mimics a stack of its iconic monogrammed luggage. But at the brand’s newest Manhattan location, just east on 57th Street, there are more feats to behold.