Jaden Smith Just Debuted His Collection for Christian Louboutin at Paris Fashion Week

Jaden Smith has officially stepped into his role as Christian Louboutin’s Menswear Creative Director, unveiling his debut collection at the prestigious Paris Fashion Week. Marking a new chapter in Louboutin’s evolution, this collection emphasises a bold palette of black, white, and red, showcasing a rich dedication to classic leather footwear rather than the traditional sneaker offerings.

Smith’s collection is a refreshing twist on timeless styles. The designs include perforated penny loafers, exaggerated patent evening pumps, and striking cowboy boots adorned with fancy silver-toe caps. “His brand is really about handmade leather craftsmanship, and I wanted to honour that,” Smith remarked, paying homage to the brand’s legacy while optimising it for contemporary tastes.

Transforming a raw, concrete space into a captivating exhibition, Smith displayed his footwear alongside an eclectic mix of cathode-ray-tube TV sets, light boxes, and historical artefacts. This innovative approach culminated in a giant, red exploding head that hosted his fall collection, affirming Smith’s intent to merge the avant-garde with classic footwear design.

In his new role, Smith has introduced several intriguing designs, including quilted, armadillo-like boots and combat boots immersed in vibrant colour gels. His aim was to streamline and modernise familiar shapes, offering design elements like stencilled logos and matte finishes that broaden the appeal of Louboutin’s offerings to a more diverse audience.

During a walkthrough of the installation, Smith sported a black utility harness, showcasing another aspect of his design philosophy dubbed “TCT formal.” This tactical approach emphasises utility, melding fashion with practicality through multiple zippered pockets intended for everyday tech and essentials.

In crafting his pieces, Smith intertwines storytelling and philosophy. For instance, he described his hole-punched loafers as symbolising “humanity’s connection to nature,” aimed at experiencing the world through one’s footwear. His approach transcends mere aesthetics, delving into concepts drawn from quantum physics, where observation alters perception.

Smith’s vision is expansive. From “gorpcore” drawstring shoes to flip-flops and moon boots, his exploratory spirit is palpable. As the first men’s creative director for Louboutin, he will oversee four annual collections and be instrumental in shaping campaigns and immersive experiences for the brand.

Christian Louboutin himself expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, praising Smith as “interesting” and “humble.” This partnership not only bridges two creative forces but also demonstrates a commitment to evolving and redefining an iconic brand.

Photo: WWD/Kuba Dabrowski