Add joy to your summer style with Christian Louboutin

Few designers can inspire the same level of fervid devotion as Christian Louboutin. The Parisian-born accessories designer is not only a household name but also a byword for mood-enhancing glamour; his signature red soles are instantly recognisable and beloved by the world’s most discerning dressers. The founding myth of the red sole is nothing short of fashion folklore – before Louboutin officially launched his own label, one of his assistants was in the office painting her nails a shocking scarlet color and, in a moment of genius, Louboutin snatched the bottle from her and began painting the sole of a nearby shoe. And just like that, his design signature was born. Nowadays, the label boasts 13.9million Instagram followers (and counting) and, although it may sound fanciful, it is no exaggeration to say that Louboutin’s designs have been worn by virtually every major model, musician and actor. His designs have transcended fashion and become pop culture.

The design virtuoso’s love of fashion was apparent from an early age; he was expelled from three schools for neglecting his academic studies in favor of sketching shoes. Louboutin’s preternatural talent is merely underscored by the fact that he has never actually been trained – rather, he went on to study drawing and decorative arts at the Académie d’Art Roederer. He eventually honed his raw skills, turning aptitude into expertise, working at respected Parisian shoemakers Charles Jourdan, before working freelance at legendary home-grown houses, including Yves Saint Laurent, Roger Vivier and Chanel. It wasn’t until 1992 that Louboutin hit a career milestone of epic proportions, opening his first Parisian boutique. Since then, he’s gone stratospheric.