Ismat Tahseen
He’s the man who changed the way women wear their heels and now he’s pumping his iconic style into another shoe – the sneaker! Influential designer Christian Louboutin has created his new collection, the Astroloubi – a 90s, street-style inspired silhouette that takes from the aesthetics of the era’s iconic basketball and skate sneakers. At a time when sneakers are no longer just a basic shoe (remember when Kanye West rocked his first pair of black leather Yeezys at the Grammy Awards in 2008 which reportedly sold for $1.8 million?) this sleek new range is meant to turn heads and go from being worn outdoors, to the office, at parties and even weddings! It received a starry welcome at its launch during Paris Men’s Fashion Week at a party with A-list guests Tom Daley and Noah Beck, and singers Miguel and Burna Boy, toasting the new shoe.
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Officially launching in August for men and women, we couldn’t resist taking a peek at the details. Of course, the collection hits all the right style notes. For one, Astroloubi has the Maison Christian Louboutin signature details. The trimmings, strong graphic lines, signature spikes on the back counter, the ‘CL’ varsity logo on colourful outsole and that ubiquitous red sole are all hallmark elements celebrating the Maison’s fabulous style. It features a sporty technical silhouette and the stand-out element is that this shoe is 20% lighter than its all-leather counterparts. The assembly of the upper elements onto a stretch, lightweight, knitted tongue associated to the soft and flexible strobel sport’s lasting construction and light cupsole, is meant to cuddle, cradle and cushion the foot. It also has a featherlight, breathable lycra-covered open foam Loubi red footbed as well as a durable, fast-drying, red lining.
The collection is launched in five colourways including 90’s brights, cool pastels and a pared-back minimalist version – White/Loubi, Studio Green/Lilac, Multi Foam/Navy, Titan/Supernova and Kismet SuperNova. Choose one to match your vibe as each iteration has an interesting mix of materials and textures such as luxurious smooth calfskin leather, soft suede, sleek satin and
laminated nappa. Sneakerheads, if you’re looking to channel your love for your fave shoe, this could be just what you want to sport this season.
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