The iconic red-soled shoes by Christian Louboutin (b. 1963) have made it onto almost every red carpet since the French designer opened his first boutique in Paris in 1992. His fantastical heels have gained attention and praise for their provocative heights and arching shapes, leading the designer to be nicknamed the “King of Stilettos.”
Since childhood, Louboutin was artistic; he began sketching shoes at the age of 10 and later studied drawing at the Académie d’Art Roederer. However, it was the regular visits to the Musée national des Arts d’Afrique et d’Océanie, then in the Palais de la Porte Dorée, that inspired his interest in women’s shoes.
Growing up in the Paris neighborhood of the museum, he regularly spent weekends there and became fascinated by a sign asking women not to wear heels on account of the antique wooden floors. The severe arch of the heel on the sign and the violent red slash through it inspired him to think about shoes as something that could be dangerous and powerful in their allure. As he has said, “I wanted to create something that broke rules and made women feel confident and empowered.”
Breaking rules came naturally to Louboutin, who dropped out of school at the age of 16 and traveled to Egypt and India. When he returned to Paris in 1981, he had his mind set on shoe design and was hired by French fashion designer Charles Jourdan whose women’s shoe designs had been popular amongst the Paris elite since 1919. Louboutin later worked as a freelancer for such fashion houses as Chanel, Yves Saint Laurent and Roger Vivier.
When he went out on his own and opened his first boutique in the Galerie Véro-Dodat covered passage, Princess Caroline of Monaco became his first famous client. The now-revered red sole emerged with his third collection, when Louboutin noticed an assistant painting her nails bright red. He tried applying the polish to a sole and was enamored with the results. Soon, his glossy, red-bottomed heels were all the rage in the fashion world.
Today, Louboutin sells his wares in department stores and over 50 Louboutin boutiques across the world. Beyond shoes, he has also expanded into accessories, beauty lines and handbags, launching the Passage collection of bags in 2014, inspired by the location of his first boutique.
Conceptual pieces like his 2007 “Pumps,” now in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, have taken his stilettos to the extreme with a ballet-like en pointe silhouette balanced on a spiked heel. Louboutin is a go-to designer for celebrities, including Blake Lively, Mariah Carey, Sarah Jessica Parker and Jennifer Lopez (who has a song about the famed shoes), among hundreds of others. In February 2020, a retrospective of his career opened in the Palais de la Porte Dorée where it all began.
Find vintage Christian Louboutin shoes, sneakers, handbags and other items on 1stDibs.
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN black leather 2023 MISS SAB Slingbacks Shoes 39
By Christian Louboutin
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Christian Louboutin Miss Saw slingbacks in black leather. Designed in a refined, sculpted silhouette with a timeless, feminine line, these elegant heels feature softly...
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN petrol patent leather MOVIDA MARY-JANE Pumps Shoes 37
By Christian Louboutin
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Christian Louboutin Movida Mary-Jane platform pumps are crafted in Vosges petrol green patent leather. They feature rounded toes, high block heels, and double Mar...
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN mermaid iridescent patent SO KATE 120 Pumps Shoes 37
By Christian Louboutin
Located in Zürich, CH
These 100% authentic Christian Louboutin So Kate pumps are crafted from striking iridescent mermaid patent leather, creating a shimmering, iridescent effect that changes with the lig...
Christian Louboutin Leather Espadrille Wedges - EU 39
By Christian Louboutin
Located in Amman, JO
Christian Louboutin Leather Espadrille Wedges Turn heads with these striking Christian Louboutin wedge sandals featuring an eye-catching lace-through leather design. Crafted in smoo...
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN 20th Anniversary Bow Bow 100 PVC T strap heels EU38.5
By Christian Louboutin
Located in Hong Kong, NT
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN 20th Anniversary Bow Bow 100 PVC red grosgrain T strap heels EU38.5 Reference: MELK/A00253 Brand: Christian Louboutin Model: Bow Bow 100 20th Anniversary Material...
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Madame Butterfly 150 ribbon cut out platform heels EU37.5
By Christian Louboutin
Located in Hong Kong, NT
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Madame Butterfly 150 nappa black bow ribbon cut out platform heels EU37.5 Reference: MELK/A00246 Brand: Christian Louboutin Model: Madame Butterfly 150 Material: ...
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Dictata 100 polished scaled toe cut out T-strap pumps EU37.5
By Christian Louboutin
Located in Hong Kong, NT
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Dictata 100 black polished scaled toe cut out T-strap pumps EU37.5 Reference: MELK/A00245 Brand: Christian Louboutin Model: Dictata 100 Material: Leather Color: B...
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Ghildarc 160 suede square toe lace up platform pumps EU37.5
By Christian Louboutin
Located in Hong Kong, NT
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Ghildarc 160 black suede square toe lace up platform pumps EU37.5 Reference: MELK/A00330 Brand: Christian Louboutin Model: Ghildarc 160 Material: Leather Color: B...
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN black CROCODILE ROLANDO Platform Pumps Shoes 38.5
By Christian Louboutin
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Christian Louboutin Rolando platform pumps in black alligator with almond toe shape. Have been worn and are in excellent condition. Bl...
rare CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Marale Boot 140 Suede Vulcano crystal mesh booties EU38
By Christian Louboutin
Located in Hong Kong, NT
rare CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Marale Boot 140 Suede Vulcano strass crystal mesh booties EU38 Reference: MELK/A00289 Brand: Christian Louboutin Model: Marale Boot 140 Material: Leather, Me...
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN nude patent leather SIMPLE 65 Pumps Shoes 41.5
By Christian Louboutin
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Christian Louboutin Simple 65 pumps with a round toe in tan patent leather. Have been worn once inside and are in virtually new condition. Measurements Imprinted Size 41.5 Shoe Size 41.5 Inside Sole 27cm (10.5in) Width 8cm (3.1in) Heel 6.5cm (2.5in) All our listings include only the listed item...
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN multicolor 2017 DOLLY DOLA 35 PUMPS Shoes 39 fit 38.5
By Christian Louboutin
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Christian Louboutin 2017 Dolly Dolly 35 Dragenfly block-heel pumps in multicolor brocade with a green grosgain and an orange satin bow. The design features a glittery ...
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Crosspiga 100 Jazz Calf criss cross point toe pumps EU37.5
By Christian Louboutin
Located in Hong Kong, NT
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Crosspiga 100 Jazz Calf black criss cross point toe pumps EU37.5 Reference: MELK/A00260 Brand: Christian Louboutin Model: Crosspiga 100 Jazz Calf Material: Leathe...
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Very Prive Spikes 120 leopard patent peep spikes heels EU39
By Christian Louboutin
Located in Hong Kong, NT
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Very Prive Spikes 120 brown leopard patent peep spikes heels EU39 Reference: VACN/A00160 Brand: Christian Louboutin Model: Very Prive Spikes 120 Material: Patent ...
Red platform-sandals in patent calf Christian Louboutin
By Christian Louboutin
Located in Saint-Ouen-Sur-Seine, FR
Red platform-sandals in patent calf. Heels height: 14 cm Platform height: 4 cm Shoe Size : 39 (It) Provided with the box and dust-bag.
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Size 6.5 Gold White Leather High Top Lace Up Shoes
By Christian Louboutin
Located in San Francisco, CA
Christian Louboutin high-top sneakers. Expertly crafted in Italy from premium gold patent leather, they feature striking white piping and laces. Excellent Pre-Owned Condition. Mark...
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Sharky Sock Spikey Sole Sneaker Boot EU45
By Christian Louboutin
Located in Hong Kong, NT
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Sharky Sock black sock knit spikey rubber sole ankle sneaker boot EU45 US12 Reference: TGAS/F00984 Brand: Christian Louboutin Model: Sharky Sock Flat Maille sneak...
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Toufrou 100 Bridal frayed organza bow leather pumps EU37
By Christian Louboutin
Located in Hong Kong, NT
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Toufrou 100 Bridal nude frayed organza bow leather pumps EU37 Reference: MELK/A00282 Brand: Christian Louboutin Model: Toufrou 100 Material: Leather, Fabric Color...
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Hot Chick 100 Patent lemon scalloped point pump EU37.5
By Christian Louboutin
Located in Hong Kong, NT
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Hot Chick 100 Patent citrus lemon scalloped point pump EU37.5 Reference: MELK/A00271 Brand: Christian Louboutin Model: Hot Chick 100 Patent Material: Leather Colo...
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Pigalili 120 black strass crystal spike stud pumps EU37
By Christian Louboutin
Located in Hong Kong, NT
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Pigalili 120 black strass crystal spike stud pumps EU37 Reference: MELK/A00256 Brand: Christian Louboutin Model: Pigalili 120 Material: Leather Color: Black Patte...
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Un Bout 100 Veau Velours mandarin PVC strappy pumps EU37.5
By Christian Louboutin
Located in Hong Kong, NT
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Un Bout 100 Veau Velours mandarin red suede PVC strappy pumps EU37.5 Reference: MELK/A00265 Brand: Christian Louboutin Model: Un Bout 100 Veau Velours Material: L...
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Mago 140 suede nude leather tri-tone platform pumps EU37
By Christian Louboutin
Located in Hong Kong, NT
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Mago 140 black suede nude leather tri-tone platform pumps EU37 Reference: MELK/A00286 Brand: Christian Louboutin Model: Mago 140 Material: Leather, Suede Color: N...
Christian Louboutin Black Leather Striped Pumps 36.5
By Christian Louboutin
Located in Krakow, PL
Christian Louboutin Black Leather Striped Pumps – Size 36.5 Condition: Very good, minimal signs of wear on sole, insole, inner lining, and toe. No box included. Elegant Louboutin pum...
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Asteroid 140 punk spike strass toe platform heels EU39
By Christian Louboutin
Located in Hong Kong, NT
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Asteroid 140 black silver punk spike strass toe platform heels EU39 Reference: VACN/A00125 Brand: Christian Louboutin Model: Asteroid 140 Material: Patent Leather...
Christian Louboutin Black Velvet Lace-Up Platform Ankle Boots - EU 40
By Christian Louboutin
Located in Amman, JO
Christian Louboutin Black Velvet Lace-Up Platform Ankle Boots Christian Louboutin ankle boots crafted in black velvet, featuring a lace-up front with decorative loop detailing and s...
Black Christian Louboutin Patent Pointed-Toe Platform Pumps Size 39
By Christian Louboutin
Located in New York, NY
Black patent leather pointed-toe platform pumps by Christian Louboutin. 2.5" platform height, 6.25" heel height.
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Sailor Boat suede degrade strass crystal low sneakers EU43
By Christian Louboutin
Located in Hong Kong, NT
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Sailor Boat red suede degrade strass crystal low sneakers EU43 Reference: PRCG/A00115 Brand: Christian Louboutin Model: Sailor Boat Material: Suede Color: Red Pat...
Black Christian Louboutin Platform Heeled Knee-High Boots
By Christian Louboutin
Located in New York, NY
Black leather platform heeled knee-high boots by Christian Louboutin. Zip closures at inner sides. 15" shaft height, 0.75" platform height, 5.5" heel height.
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Rabakate 100 Veau Velours suede bow stiletto pumps EU37
By Christian Louboutin
Located in Hong Kong, NT
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Rabakate 100 Veau Velours black suede bow stiletto pumps EU37 Reference: MELK/A00261 Brand: Christian Louboutin Model: Rabakate 100 Veau Velours Material: Suede C...
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Daffodile 160 silver crystal encrusted platform pumps EU37.5
By Christian Louboutin
Located in Hong Kong, NT
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Daffodile Strass 160 silver crystal encrusted platform pumps EU37.5 Reference: MELK/A00237 Brand: Christian Louboutin Model: Daffodile Strass 160 Material: Fabric...
Iconic Christian Louboutin black suede&patent leather Classic ankle boots 9 39.5
By Christian Louboutin
Located in KRAKÓW, PL
Iconic Christian Louboutin black suede & patent leather Classic ankle boots booties 39.5 / 9 Ret price €1195
Christian Louboutin Women 100mm So Kate Pumps Size US 9.5 IT 39.5 Black Leather
By Christian Louboutin
Located in Miami, FL
- Black leather exterior - Tagged size 39.5 - No box Condition: The pumps are in overall great condition with no major imperfections Measurements: ( Approximately In Inche...
Christian Louboutin Poseidon Metallic Silver Scaled PVC & Foil Peep-Toe Pumps -
By Christian Louboutin
Located in Milano, Lombardia
An expressive and sculptural design, the Poseidon pumps by Christian Louboutin reinterpret the classic stiletto through texture, light, and movement. Crafted in a refined compositio...
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Highness 160 natural scaled leather platform heels EU36.5
By Christian Louboutin
Located in Hong Kong, NT
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Highness 160 natural scaled butterfly print leather platform peep heels EU36.5 Reference: TGAS/F00555 Brand: Christian Louboutin Model: Highness 160 Material: Lea...
Christian Louboutin Blue Denim Lady Peep Spikes Heels - Size 39.5
By Christian Louboutin
Located in Krakow, PL
Christian Louboutin Denim Spike Heels Sz.39.5 Blue Very Good Condition Description: Striking Christian Louboutin denim heels featuring ...
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Alpinono Flat Crosta Wax black suede lug sole boot EU43 US10
By Christian Louboutin
Located in Hong Kong, NT
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Alpinono Flat Crosta Wax black suede lug sole chelsea boots EU43 US10 Reference: TGAS/F00988 Brand: Christian Louboutin Model: Alpinono Flat Material: Suede, Rubb...
Black Christian Louboutin Lace-Up Over-The-Knee Heeled Boots Size 39
By Christian Louboutin
Located in New York, NY
Black leather platform heeled over-the-knee boots by Christian Louboutin. Block heels. Elasticized gores at backs. Lace-up tie closures at tops. 14" shaft height, 0.75" platform heig...
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Daffodile 160 Menthe green scaled platform heels EU36.5
By Christian Louboutin
Located in Hong Kong, NT
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Daffodile 160 Menthe ombre green scaled platform heels EU36.5 Reference: TGAS/F00554 Brand: Christian Louboutin Model: Daffodile 160 Collection: Fall 2012 Materia...
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN "Okydok Lurex" Metallic Leather & Lamé Ankle Strap Sandals
By Christian Louboutin
Located in Thiensville, WI
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN "Okydok Lurex" Metallic Leather & Lamé Ankle Strap Sandals Brand / Manufacturer: Christian Louboutin Circa: 2018 Style: Sandals / Heels Color(s): Silver Unmarked...
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Tinazata 120 strappy caged gladiator sandals EU37.5
By Christian Louboutin
Located in Hong Kong, NT
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Tinazata 120 nappa black leather strappy caged gladiator sandals EU37.5 Reference: MELK/A00249 Brand: Christian Louboutin Model: Tinazata 120 Material: Leather Co...
Christian Louboutin, Highness cork peep-toe platform
By Christian Louboutin
Located in AMSTERDAM, NL
Christian Louboutin, Highness cork peep-toe platform red sole pump in size 36.5. This product has been worn but is still in a good condition.
Christian Louboutin, Black Mademoi platform pump
By Christian Louboutin
Located in AMSTERDAM, NL
Christian Louboutin, Black leather Mademoi platform pump. The item is in good condition.
Christian Louboutin, White platform spike pumps
By Christian Louboutin
Located in AMSTERDAM, NL
Christian Louboutin, White platform spike pumps with snake leather. This piece has been worn once and is in very good condition. Has a few small dents in the leather and is missing 2...
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Miyousra 100 black goat skin buckle D'Orsay pumps EU37.5
By Christian Louboutin
Located in Hong Kong, NT
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Miyousra 100 black goat skin buckle D'Orsay pumps EU37.5 Reference: MELK/A00277 Brand: Christian Louboutin Model: Miyousra 100 Material: Leather Color: Black Patt...
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Paulina hot pink PVC scaled leather contrast pumps EU39.5
By Christian Louboutin
Located in Hong Kong, NT
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Paulina hot pink PVC scaled leather contrast pumps EU39.5 Reference: JECW/A00021 Brand: Christian Louboutin Model: Paulina Material: Leather Color: Beige, Pink Pa...
Christian Louboutin, black leather ankle boots
By Christian Louboutin
Located in AMSTERDAM, NL
Christian Louboutin, black leather ankle boots. The item is in good condition with a scuff on the right heel.
Christian Louboutin Donaflor 100 Embellished Velvet Mules-Size 40.5 NEW
By Christian Louboutin
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
Christian Louboutin Donaflor Velvet Crystal Heel Mule Sandal Size 40.5 The retail of this shoe is $1495 and these shoes are New. These Christian Louboutin Two-Tone Cherry and Black V...
Christian Louboutin 2000's Red & Black Leather pumps
By Christian Louboutin
Located in Caserta, IT
- Christian Louboutin - High heels - Black surface - Classic Loubutin Red sun - Very good condition - Made in Italy - Materials: Leather - Size: 40.5 IT Measurements Intersole: 26 c...
NWOB Christian Louboutin Gray Suede Python Boots Sz 40
By Christian Louboutin
Located in Krakow, PL
Christian Louboutin Gray Suede Boots with Python Detail Sz.40 Never Worn Description: Elegant Christian Louboutin knee-high boots in soft gray suede, featuring unique removable pytho...
Christian Louboutin Black Strappy Leather Platform Heels - Size 36
By Christian Louboutin
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
Christian Louboutin Black Strappy Leather Platform Heels - 36. These shoes are in excellent condition and have never been worn. The front section has a woven design to it by the toe....
Open-toe pump in patent leather with turtle shell pattern Christian Louboutin
By Christian Louboutin
Located in Saint-Ouen-Sur-Seine, FR
Open-toe pump in patent leather with turtle shell pattern. Heel's height = 11 cm plateform = 2 cm Shoe size = 38 1/2
Christian Louboutin White Snakeskin Peep Toe Pumps Sz.37.5
By Christian Louboutin
Located in Krakow, PL
Elegant Christian Louboutin pumps crafted in white snakeskin. Features a peep toe, adjustable strap, and signature stiletto heel. Minimal signs of wear on the sole, insole, and leath...
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Eklectica 85 nappa calf suede mix pointed toe pumps EU37.5
By Christian Louboutin
Located in Hong Kong, NT
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Eklectica 85 nappa black calf suede mix pointed toe pumps EU37.5 Reference: MELK/A00281 Brand: Christian Louboutin Model: Eklectica 85 Material: Leather Color: Bl...
Christian Louboutin White Patent Leather Round-Toe Pumps Sz.39
By Christian Louboutin
Located in Krakow, PL
Christian Louboutin White Patent Leather Round-Toe Pumps Sz.39 Condition: Very good, minimal signs of wear on the sole, insole, heel, and minor marks on the leather Fit: True to si...
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Daffodile 160 black suede almond toe platform pump EU38
By Christian Louboutin
Located in Hong Kong, NT
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Daffodile 160 black suede almond toe platform pump EU38 Reference: TGAS/B01518 Brand: Christian Louboutin Model: Daffodile 160 Material: Suede Color: Black Patter...
Christian Louboutin Multi Color Suede, Jelly & Leather Cutout Heels - 37.5
By Christian Louboutin
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
Christian Louboutin Multi Color Suede, Jelly & Leather Cutout Heels - 37.5. These shoes are in excellent condition with minor general wear and some minor wear specifically on the pla...
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Bianca 140 Amethyste watersnake leather platform pumps EU37
By Christian Louboutin
Located in Hong Kong, NT
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Bianca 140 Amethyste purple watersnake leather platform pumps EU37 Reference: MELK/A00288 Brand: Christian Louboutin Model: Bianca 140 Material: Leather Color: Pu...
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Miss Gena 85 red glossy leather round toe pumps EU36.5
By Christian Louboutin
Located in Hong Kong, NT
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Miss Gena 85 red glossy leather round toe pumps EU36.5 Reference: TGAS/A02435 Brand: Christian Louboutin Model: Miss Gena 85 Material: Leather Color: Red Pattern:...
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Louis black velvet crystal spike stud high top sneaker EU41
By Christian Louboutin
Located in Hong Kong, NT
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Louis black velvet crystal spike stud high top sneaker EU41 Reference: TGAS/B02179 Brand: Christian Louboutin Model: Louis Material: Velvet, Patent Leather Color:...
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Helmour purple glitter round toe half dorsay pump EU37.5
By Christian Louboutin
Located in Hong Kong, NT
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Helmour purple glitter round toe half dorsay pump EU37.5 Reference: TGAS/B00795 Brand: Christian Louboutin Model: Helmour purple glitter Material: Leather Color: ...