Christian Louboutin is a French shoe designer. His signature red sole has become synonymous with glamour and sensuality, referenced constantly in popular culture by international superstars including Beyoncé, Taylor Swift, Jennifer Lopez and Cardi B as the shoes women aspire to own. Christian Louboutin was born and raised in Paris, with his parents and three older sisters. In 2014 he discovered that his biological father was of Egyptian heritage - the result of a clandestine love affair between his mother and a young Egyptian man. This revelation recontextualized many of his formative experiences growing up, wondering why he appeared different to his blonde, fair-haired siblings.

Today, Christian Louboutin is considered to be the most famous high fashion shoe brand in the world. The word 'Loutoutin' has become an adjective - immediately denoting a classification of intense sexuality and classiness. The company has successfully branched out into men's luxury footwear, handbags, fragrances, and makeup. Christian remains at the helm of the business and its entire design process - a rarity in the fashion industry and for an empire of his size.

In this episode of Fashion Neurosis, Christian Louboutin and Bella Freud discuss the story behind his iconic red soles; the meaningfulness of his creative collaboration with David Lynch; and his ability to wake up happy.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices