Usually when we do a Save, Spend, Splurge post, we start off at a low price point and work our way up to a fantasy item. This time, though, all the bags are a little bit spendy – we didn’t plan it that way, but sometimes, that’s just how the handbag world works, much to all of our chagrins. Please believe me when I say that none of us regard customized Louis Vuitton as an opportunity to “save” money.

That being said, it is the opening price point to score this super luxe trend. Whether it’s a painted stripe, pieced leather or a touch of texture to a timeless classic, a racing stripe hits both the athletic trend and the vintage mood that has been running through accessories design for several seasons now. For now, the French have a monopoly on this look – from Louis Vuitton to Rochas to Hermes, here’s how to do a racing stripe at three different price points.