4 October 2023 |
Unveiling its SS24 collection in true Christian Louboutin fashion, the French luxury house put on a stellar performance blending style, technology and artistry at Paris’ renowned Grand Amphitheatre of La Sorbonne.
Collaborating with German-Persian artist Tobias Gremmler to create a visual concept that incorporated the brand’s iconic crimson red sole, digital depictions of contorting bodies danced across screens to reflect Louboutin’s zeal for cross-disciplinary expression. Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui – an award-winning Belgian dancer – was also drafted, overseeing the direction and choreography of the spectacle.
Opening the show with Viktoria Modesta – known as the world’s first bionic pop star – wearing a needle-like spike prosthetic and custom Louboutins, sixteen talented performers then moved through a series of contemporary dances soundtracked by a musical interpretation of an Arabic love poem. Accompanied by a live piano and a Cristal Baschet, the score was intended to celebrate the designer’s Egyptian heritage and desire to fuse together different cultures.
After the show, guests ranging from Charli XCX to Sabrina Carpenter were invited into the Grand Salon for a cocktail presentation where the new collection was displayed inside illusory, mirrored boxes. Featuring metallic hues, crystal boots and dramatic heel decor, the collection was as showstopping as the presentation.
Speaking on the production, Louboutin highlighted, “Dance is universal, in any culture, dance has its own special resonance. Sidi Larbi [Cherkaoui] did this amazing mix of styles and culture, that is something I also cherish in my work. Incorporating technology to this show was also a fantastic exercise, Tobias worked on the iconic codes of the brand and made them evolve into virtual images in movement which were really fascinating.”
Photography courtesy of Christian Louboutin.
