Instead of opening dozens of points of sale, the trend is more into flagships, now. Brands from all backgrounds get it. In turns, Apple, Etam, Victoria’s Secret, Adidas, and even Nike open these innovative and XXL stores in Paris that are the true embassies of the brands for shopping-addicts.
A trend that even reaches the great designers’ sphere: late 2017, Louis Vuitton got an incredible store at the Place Vendôme. Late 2018, it was Chanel turn to open a flagship on rue Cambon. In July 2020, Christian Louboutin steps in at 400 rue Saint-Honoré, a new beautiful store opens.
If this 260sqm flagship covering three levels seems quite small in comparison with the pharaonic places that have been recently inaugurated, it stands out because of the staging, taking us to the heart of the famous shoe designers’ universe. Those who have been lucky enough to enjoy the sublime retrospective at the Palais de la Porte Dorée will see this place as an extension of the compelling display.
The iconic and easily recognizable red of Christian Louboutin’s shoes surrounds us. A painting of the famous French designer welcomes us, with a paint roller in hand, his looking amused and relaxed. In this worksite on hold, shoes, high heels and sneakers are displayed like works of art. The one always changing fashion codes talks to us through cheeky or inspiring messages written on the walls. Sketches, wild animal origamis, furniture wrapped Christo way, as many elements of décor to make of this flagship a surprising setting immerging us in the Louboutin universe.
Location
Flagship Christian Louboutin
400 Rue Saint-Honoré
75001 Paris 1
Access
Metro Concorde (lines 1 and 12)