French shoe designer Christian Louboutin, famous for his trademark red outsole stiletto-heeled women’s shoes, had long dreamed of opening a shoe store just for men, according to the New York Times.
Last month, the innovative designer opened his flagship men-only store in Paris, working with the architect Eric Clough to develop a very contemporary space with an iconic red floor and a tin ceiling.
The designer had been selling a few men’s styles out of his women’s store, but demand was so high, it became a problem.
“It didn’t look so good,” he said. “Sometimes women feel uncomfortable when men stare at them when they try on shoes.”
The shop even offers a custom embroidery service that allows client to replicate their tattoo onto their shoes, which the designer describes as a modern-day version of family crests.
Since opening in August, despite the economy, the store has been selling an average of 20 pairs a day.
Apparently, the more lavish models are most popular, with Louboutin mentiong that customers will “come in and they say, ‘What do you have with studs?’” His studded high-top sneakers ($993) and a more elaborate version with crystals ($2,278) are among his bestsellers.
In the meantime, Louboutin has not forgotten the ladies. He has come up with innovative ergonomic shoulder strap designs for purses, each with unique look that include feathers or bells. The straps are sold separately and are interchangeable.