Designer Christian Louboutin has long admired India and its rich culture. This time, he has infused his passion and appreciation for the country into a unique collection called The Diwali Edit. This collection is a vibrant shoe and accessory celebration of India’s cultural richness, encapsulating the spirit of one of the country’s most cherished festivals. This exclusive capsule collection reflects Louboutin’s admiration for Indian aesthetics, showcasing a harmonious blend of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary design. The collection is characterised by a striking colour palette that includes deep fuchsia, rose, teal, and earthy tones of yellow and red; all accentuated with gold detailing. This vivid spectrum embodies the exuberance associated with Diwali and highlights the designer’s commitment to solid craftsmanship.
Among the standout pieces in this collection are the Lady Bombay Diwali 85 and Lady Bombay Diwali flat. Both styles are inspired by the empowered women of Mumbai and are designed to resonate with the city’s dynamic spirit. The Lady Bombay Diwali 85 features a high-heeled silhouette that combines rhinestones and fishnet, merging elements of fashion and couture while maintaining an unmistakably feminine allure through its pointy tip. In contrast, the Lady Bombay Diwali flat offers a comfortable yet stylish alternative, perfect for festive celebrations or casual outings. My style tip – pair these with a simple indo-western outfit and let the heels do all the talking!
Louboutin has long been captivated by India, a passion that began in his teenage years when he discovered Indian cinema. “Since I was a teenager and first discovered Indian cinema at a theatre near my parents’ apartment, I fell in love with India. I love its people, culture, its landscapes, scents — everything here is so inspiring”, he says. His travels across the country have profoundly influenced his design philosophy. In this collection, he incorporates ribbons from his archives — elements he has collected over decades during his visits to India. This attention to detail is a testament to his respect for Indian textiles and their artistry. Louboutin expresses his admiration by stating that Indian fabric represents “a pure form of art,” reflecting the richness and vibrancy of the culture.
The Diwali Edit also includes the Kate Diwali 85, an exclusive style featuring vibrant fabrics in bright colours that embody the festival’s spirit. This design merges Louboutin’s iconic Kate silhouette with traditional Indian motifs, showcasing fabrics sourced directly from India. Additionally, the Diwalina flat and Diwalina 55 sandals offer stylish comfort in gold nappa laminata, perfect for festive occasions. The Pyraclou Diwali 110 & Pyraclou Diwali 60 incorporate auspicious saffron and blue hues of Diwali. Men’s styles like the Night on the Gange Diwali and Marcantonia Diwali merge elegance with comfort. The colour of the men’s style – golden accents on black fabric, symbolises the victory light over dark, celebrating the meaning of Diwali.
The collection also features an array of leather goods that complement the footwear collection. The Loubi54 small clutch, embellished with gold rhinestones, and the revamped Paloma clutch, adorned with new golden spikes, add luxurious flair to any festive ensemble.
The designer, while on the evolution of Indian design within the global fashion landscape, observes that it has gained significant recognition over the past decade. More Western brands seek India’s unique craftsmanship, which speaks to a broader appreciation for its rich cultural heritage. “Indian culture has such deep roots in its history, territories, and its craftsmanship, making it a rich and endless world to explore and celebrate,” he adds.
The Diwali Edit is more than a collection; it is an artistic expression celebrating India’s vibrant culture through fashion. By blending traditional motifs with modern footwear silhouettes and the classic red soles, Christian Louboutin invites fashion enthusiasts to embrace not only luxury but also a profound connection to cultural heritage as they celebrate Diwali. As this exclusive capsule becomes available at Christian Louboutin boutiques in India, it serves as a reminder of the beauty found in diversity and tradition within contemporary fashion.
