I have always been a huge fan of window-shopping. Every Christmas, my family would take a trip into Manhattan to see the store windows at Saks Fifth Avenue, Bergdorf Goodman, and Macy's. But, retailers produce artistic and inventive store windows throughout the year. So, I happen to be in luck. Paris is home to a host of chocolatiers, boulangeries, and designers who have mastered the art of window display design in order to wow and woo shoppers.

One fashion house in particular caught my eye--Louis Vuitton. There is nothing ordinary about the displays at the Champs-Élysées flagship. Each one is a work of art. The store's installations are colorful, playful, and inspired. The design incorporates ready-to-wear and accessories, along with unexpected props--large spools of thread, mannequin feet, thick strings of silk thread, and oversized leather swatches.  

The installations compel shoppers to walk inside, make a purchase or two, and experience the design vision of American architects Peter Marino and Eric Carlson (who renovated the 161,000 square-foot flagship in 2006). Maybe, next time. I was content to continue my day of window-shopping along the Champs-Élysées. The flagship is located at 101 avenue des Champs-Élysées.

MORE TO SEE AT LV 
I am not the only one who admires the windows at LV. At a Louis Vuitton window in Oslow, Freshmess.com captured a stack of handmade trunks with an illustrated image of the Eiffel Tower. Also, check out this video of another LV installation. Hauteworld features other evocative window displays in Paris.