Fancy A Pair of Red Sole Shoes? Know What They Truly Embody

Christian Louboutin, who began painting the soles of his shoes red in 1992, views red as a symbol of sensuality and a subtle branding tool. "I selected the colour because it is engaging, flirtatious, memorable, and the colour of passion," Louboutin told The New Yorker in March. The colour red, rich with connotations of wealth and power, particularly in fashion history, remains a compelling choice for designers, driving them to defend its use in court.

What do red soled shoes translate to in western cultures?

In Western cultures, red has long been a symbol of power and ferocity, worn by soldiers, monarchs, and religious leaders. Ancient Greeks and Romans carried red flags into battle, and soldiers in the 1800s wore red to intimidate foes. Fashion historian Valerie Steele, in her book The Red Dress, recounts how Duke John the Fearless of Burgundy triumphantly entered Paris in 1406 donning a red velvet suit, a testament to his power.

The significance of red extended beyond power to privilege. Red dyes were expensive, reserved for those with high status. In some European societies, sumptuary laws dictated which social classes could wear red, often limiting it to nobility. During the 16th century, the Peasants' Revolt in Germany included a demand for the right to wear red, and French Revolutionaries adopted the color as a symbol of rebellion.

In China, red dye was believed to be made from dragon's blood, adding a mystical element to its allure. The colour’s potent symbolism continues to influence fashion, making it an enduring choice for designers like Louboutin.