This week in Paris, in the midst of the chaos of Men’s SS26 Fashion Week and the raging heat of the city in June, we escaped into the opulent interior of the Hôtel de Crillon, taking a moment to step into a world of cool, quiet luxury and historic prestige. Christian Louboutin invited us down to explore an immersive showcase that told the story of the craftmanship, innovation, and modern elegance that goes into its Sartorial line.
Stepping inside the first of a trio of connected rooms lined with tall windows and dotted with chandeliers, we got the chance to see exactly how Christian Louboutin’s timeless footwear is crafted. Artisans demonstrated three techniques integral to the brand, the first two being la patine and le glaçage - both use in the design of Louboutin’s Chambeliss line of shoes.
Watching one artist rub polish into a pair of shoes, it was explained that la patine and le glaçage are processes used to achieve Christian Louboutin’s distinct, reflective finish. The third technique that we got to witness performed in the space was the intricately detailed embroidery crafted by the legendary Parisian atelier, Maison Lesage.
There were finished examples next to the desk that the artisan was working at, displaying the detail on limited-edition Farfajour and Farfanuit shoes, each adorned with a hand-embroidered butterfly. Looking closer, we were able to see the delicate layers of organza atop the shoes, embroidered with metallic threads, sequins, glass beads and rhinestones.
The second space we explored was actually the third room, dedicated to spotlighting the Louboutin’s Chambeliss line, a range of timeless designs. Lined up on a long table were examples of the brand’s most coveted sartorial silhouettes: the Chambelimoc, Chambelimonk, Chambelimonk Boot,
Chambeliboot, Lord Chamb, Chambeliss Night Strass and Chambelimoc Night Strass. The metal pin detail - normally found at the knot of a tie, but here on the upper of Louboutin’s footwear - added a jewellery-like detail to the collection.
Finally, heading back into the middle, connecting room, a performance started, with four dancers each embodying key styles from Christian Louboutin’s Sartorial collection. Inspired by the lifestyle and wardrobe of a dandy, the performance was punctuated with flashes of red bottom soles as the performers moved, each wearing a key style from the brand’s selection. The equestrian-inspired Lord Chamb boots, the 10,000 rhinestone covered Circus Booty Perla, the O Louvre moccasin, and the embroidered Farfaman all make cameos.
To explore Christian Louboutin's Sartorial line yourself, hit up this link.
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