In conversation with Christian Louboutin.
His designer heels are worn by some of the world’s most photographed stars. As the international judge for the worldwide Martini Royale Casting, the iconic Christian Louboutin talks about his passion for heels and what makes a woman sexy.
Would you ever design a capsule collection that’s affordable for everyone?
I love quality. I truly love the detail and quality of the shoes we make. The leather, the different materials we use are all precious. To make beautiful things, and things of real quality, is sometimes expensive. I also think that there are times when you buy something that’s timeless and of real personal value to you.
Who’s your favourite client?
There are too many to name. I love women and I love shoes. I’m very happy when my sisters love my shoes!
Who, and what, inspires you?
I take inspiration from everything that’s around me. Literally anything. I take my inspiration from shapes… I love curves. I might see someone holding a pen and wonder how that might look as a heel of a shoe.
Is their one pair of shoes that you’re most attached to?
Each pair is significant. I can look at the shoes and they might remind me of different times in my career. It’s especially exciting to see the shoes on display at the Design Museum in London. Putting the exhibition together has been a wonderful process.
What or who was your first source of inspiration?
Growing up, I was surrounded by women… My mother and my sisters are a great part of my inspiration.
Did you ever think about designing clothes instead of shoes?
No, I love shoes… the shapes, fabrics and textures.
What convinced you to accept this role as a judge for Martini?
I love women. I’m excited to work with Martini to find its next star. Martini’s brand philosophy of ‘Luck is an Attitude’ is similar to my outlook on life. I like the idea of seizing the day and creating one’s luck by having a great outlook and attitude. I love my work and I love that I’m free to do my work. For 20 years I’ve been doing what I love and that’s designing shoes.
What characteristics will you be looking for in the new Martini star?
I want to find someone who’s going to surprises me. Smart, smiley, sweet and sexy.
It’s always important for a woman to feel beautiful and confident. The more confident a woman feels the sexier she appears.
Pictured above: Some of Louboutin's stunning heels as exhibited in London's Design Museum
