Maison Margiela & Christian Louboutin: A fusion of haute couture

"...Maison Margiela has partnered with Christian Louboutin to unveil a new footwear collection that seamlessly merges the distinctive identities of both brands..."

Under the creative direction of John Galliano at Maison Margiela and Christian Louboutin, the mastermind behind the iconic red-soled heels, this exquisite collaboration was first introduced during Maison Margiela’s Artisanal Haute Couture 2024 show in January. The partnership has since evolved into a special-edition footwear collection that redefines the boundaries of design. This exclusive collection is divided into two capsules: Maison Margiela by Christian Louboutin, featuring three distinct designs, and Christian Louboutin by Maison Margiela, showcasing four designs. The collection will be available at select boutiques worldwide and through both brands’ digital platforms.

For Maison Margiela by Christian Louboutin, the brands have reinterpreted the iconic Tabi shoe, blending Maison Margiela’s signature split-toe design with the feminine curves synonymous with Louboutin. A newly introduced heart-shaped (cordate) silhouette enhances the natural grace of the female form, while Louboutin’s signature red sole adds an unmistakable touch of luxury. This capsule comprises three key designs:

• Bridiela Una Strass – A 100mm stiletto crafted exclusively for brides, adorned with hand-embroidered crystals on mesh, echoing the meticulous craftsmanship of the Artisanal Haute Couture 2024 collection. Available in black, silver, and blush pink.
• Loubiella – A 100mm heeled sandal inspired by Louboutin’s Rosalie model, offered in glossy black patent leather and platinum leather with an ice-like effect.
• Marlougiela – A classic ballet-inspired flat available in supple black and deep red patent leather, as well as mesh adorned with strass crystals for a refined, opulent finish.

Meanwhile, Christian Louboutin by Maison Margiela presents a visionary reinterpretation of Louboutin’s aesthetic through the deconstructed lens of Maison Margiela. John Galliano applies decortiqué, a technique that strips away superfluous details to reveal the raw essence of design. This capsule consists of four distinctive styles:

• Bilougiela 25 – A 100mm stiletto, adapted from Louboutin’s Kate Max model, featuring decortiqué elements that peel away sections of black patent leather to expose the shoe’s underlying structure.
• Martinloula – A sharply pointed pump adorned with a faux-cul heel overlay, a distinctive design first introduced in Maison Margiela’s Artisanal 2024 show.
• Xrismarteen – A 100mm heeled boot employing decortiqué techniques to create artfully distressed leather strips, revealing the shoe’s lining beneath.
• Martoubi 25 – A pointed-toe stiletto featuring bianchetto, a painting technique where white paint is layered over red leather, creating a beautifully aged effect that embraces the Maison Margiela philosophy of imperfection.

This collaboration is more than just a fusion of two distinct brand identities—it sets a new benchmark in design, bridging the worlds of haute couture and luxury footwear with seamless precision. The exclusive collection is now available at select boutiques worldwide and through both brands’ online platforms.

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