Rouge Magnifique!

Photo By Stephan Gladieu.

The Evolution of a Designer: Christian Louboutin Celebrates His 20th Anniversary

by Christie Moeller

The man who revolutionized the high heel—perfecting hidden platforms and vertiginous stilettos while introducing us to the red-lacquered sole—celebrates his label’s 20th anniversary with the release of the Capsule Collection, a classically styled footwear and accessories line compiled of his favorite pieces. It includes six one-of-a-kind handbags.

The collection is a 20-year retrospective of Christian Louboutin’s work. From his lifelong fascination with the world of showgirls and cabarets (his first job was assisting entertainers at Folies Bergère in Paris) to his love of art, architecture and design, each style included in this special collection is rich with history and carries a unique story of creation and inspiration.

The designer’s passion for exotic travel and admiration for craftsmanship are rooted in his Capsule Collection. One example, the Copte Flat sandal, is an intricate and delicate weaving inspired by a Coptic cross from a Valley of the Queens artisan in Egypt.

Feathers are also prominently featured. The Pluminette, a satin peep-toe pump with black fishnet overlay, has shaved feather details on the heel and toe, while Artemis Plumes, a hand-painted green python bag with gold chain contains multicolored hand-dyed goose and hen feathers on the shoulder.