Shoe designer Christian Louboutin is renowned for his sexy stiletto shoes with their signature red soles, which were created when the designer swiped some red nail varnish on the bottom of a pair of his shoes in 1992.
Born in Paris in 1964, Christian Louboutin went on to work for renowned cobbler Charles Jourdan, who created shoes for Dior, and swiftly afterwards Louboutin began freelancing for labels including Chanel, Maud Frizon, Yves Saint Laurent and Roger Vivier.
In 1991, Christian Louboutin opened up his first shop in Paris and began catering to well-heeled clients like Catherine Deneuve and Princess Caroline of Monaco. By 1995, Louboutin was designing shoes for top labels including Givenchy, Lanvin, Jean-Paul Gaultier and Chloé, as well as developing a cult celebrity following. The designer launched his first handbag collection in 2003, and introduced the best-selling "Pigalle" shoe, with a sexy five-inch heel and pointy toe, a year later. Other hit styles include the "Very Prive" hidden platform peep-toes, Louboutin's cheeky "Love" and "Sex" shoes, rock-chick studded shoes, ankle and knee-high boots and men's trainers. Christian Louboutin footwear – made over in classic ivory satin - is also a popular choice among brides on their wedding day.
By Brogan Driscoll & Jen Barton