Christian Louboutin has provided something for tourists and residents alike this summer in Toronto. The Parisian shoe designer, who might have been a gardener had he not discovered the power of footwear, opened his exhibit at Toronto’s Design Exchange recently.
The exhibit gives people the opportunity to see why the signature red-soled shoes have become a status symbol, and the detail and artistry involved in creating them.
In an interview on CBC’s radio program, Q, the designer conceded he does not create with comfort in mind, but said he did once try on a pair to decide on the placement of the heel.
Design Exchange Louboutin exhibit
© George Pimentel
As for the debate about high-heels as empowering or oppressive,
Christian Louboutin said “women are smart enough to know exactly what they like, what they want, so they can be influenced by fashion but you don’t do something you’re completely against.” He likened wearing high-heels to wearing a suit and tie.
Christian Louboutin explained that he did indeed take the nail polish from an assistant in his early days, when he was designing proto-types and found the black sole too dark. He said painting it red was an effort to provide definition. Originally his plan was to use many colours, but the red sole quickly became identified as his shoes.
Of the exhibit, which premiered in London for the 20th anniversary of his company, the designer said it was “like a large family reunion” to see so many of his shoes in one place.
The show runs at Toronto’s Design Exchange until September 15th, 2013.
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