For women raised in the '70s, high heels can still carry a stigma; they're associated with being stupid, with just wanting to please a man. Other women find them empowering.
Interpretation
The perception of high heels differs among women, with some viewing them as symbols of empowerment and others as symbols of subservience.
Christian Louboutin highlights the complex relationship women have with high heels, particularly those raised in the 1970s. For some, high heels represent a tool for empowerment and self-expression, while for others, they carry a negative stigma, suggesting a desire to conform to societal expectations that prioritize pleasing men over personal autonomy. This dichotomy reflects broader themes of feminism and women's rights, illustrating how fashion can be both liberating and constraining, depending on the individual's perspective.
In practice
In a discussion about women's fashion choices, this quote can highlight differing views on high heels.
I wanted to be a shoe designer, but I never thought it could be a profession. But what was the alternative? Doctor? Too dirty! Air-hostess? Maybe not! Then someone gave me a book on Roger Vivier, and, cheri, instantly I knew that was it!
I never had a plan. I have to say, I'm very shocked when people start a company and say, 'In five years I want to launch a perfume, or in 10 years I want to have this.' How can you know?
These heels are candy for the feet; theyβre for pleasure, not practicality.
The thing I always try to remember is that feet are attached to the leg, and that you must prolong the silhouette. The shoe elongates the leg and does it discreetly. The goal is to get people to look at a woman's legs. It's all about the leg. No, it's not about the leg. It's about the woman.
Fashion isn't interesting when it comes from an uninspired place. It's like voodoo; we don't want things that are soaked in blood, sweat, and tears. I adore life, and I'm very easygoing - and it shows in my work.
A woman can carry a bag, but it is the shoe that carries the woman.
The dress must follow the body of a woman, not the body following the shape of the dress.
Building a proper wardrobe is like building a home. Indeed, you should think of it like a home, because it is something you're going to live in. It must be comfortable and suit all your needs.
Nothing goes out of fashion sooner than a long dress with a very low neck.
Having the chance to walk at New York Fashion Week for Yeezy and Milan Fashion Week for Alberta Ferretti and Max Mara in a hijab is so significant. It sends a message to young women everywhere that you can be beautiful for just being you.
The goal I seek is to have people refine their style through my clothing without having them become victims of fashion.
The way I looked when I started modelling - I was a skinny schoolgirl, stuffing tissues into my little 32A bra. I wasn't trying to be that thin; I was perfectly healthy, but still - that look is a total impossibility for women over the age of 20. Fashion has a lot to answer for, doesn't it?
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