Is Scuffing a Red Sole a Sin? On wearing Christian Louboutin the way fashion intended

Pantone 18-1663 TPX. The colour of passion, confidence, and audacity. Christian Louboutin’s signature red. 

Under my Christmas tree this year were the Christian Louboutin Mamaflirt Slingbacks — my dream shoe after the Christian Louboutin Cassia Lace Up 100mm Strappy Pumps. After sharing them online, the response was immediate and almost unanimous: protect the soles, preserve the red, keep them immaculate. Practical advice, certainly, but it prompted a more enduring question. Is scuffing the red sole a sin, or were they designed to be worn?

As a stylist and lifelong admirer of design, my approach to fashion is rooted in craftsmanship, design, and the legacy that transforms clothing into something classic. I am selective of what I bring into my wardrobe, with every purchase a deliberate addition to a closet reflective of my authentic self, and personal style. 

When it comes to luxury fashion I've long believed in giving attire a life of adventure, and glamour. A shoe locked away, however exquisite, remains incomplete. Christian Louboutin shoes, as they were conceived in Paris, were never intended to exist as a static object, but as a statement and piece intended to be worn to make women feel confident and empowered. 

I have no plans to resell any designer item I choose to purchase, as each piece is never an impulsive choice but a carefully thought out reflection of my authentic personal style. How I came to acquire my new Mamaflirt Slingback’s sounds a little more impulsive than it was. The Cassia’s have been on my wishlist for the last two years and because of that the Mamaflirts caught my eye—a shoe that carries the same energy, aura, and aesthetic but is a more suitable option for everyday wear. Comfortable, versatile, and aligned with my personal style. It just so happened, I went into Chrsitaian Louboutin and the Mamaflirt slingbacks were on sale, for 40% off. It felt like a sign, they were meant to be mine. On top of that, the beautiful sales associate asked me my size. I replied 38, 39, and out she comes with a 38.5, the perfect size—another sign it was meant to be. 

For my first pair of designer shoes, I chose a form of luxury that could accompany me through everyday life, not one confined to special occasions. I’ve always believed that beauty should exist in the ordinary — and these shoes, meant to be worn and marked by life, reflect exactly that.

I move almost exclusively in neutrals, and learning the origin of Louboutin's iconic red soles, made me realise I am precisely the client they were designed for. Initially a black sole, Christian’s shoe sat side by side with his drawing when he realised there was something missing. The design was outshining the physical shoe. The inspiration for the red sole came from an assistant who was painting her nails red. Christian realised women who choose to stick to neutrals, still saw red as a colour within their palette. He painted the base in red nail lacquer and the red sole was born. 

If you’re interested in learning more about the creation of the red soles, I found The Business of Fashion Podcast: How Christian Louboutin Turned Red Soles into a Status Symbol | Inside Fashion, super interesting and informative. 

So, is scuffing the red sole a sin? I don’t believe it is. Christian Louboutin designed the shoe to be worn and loved—so wear and love the shoe, I will do.  

A little scuffing doesn’t bother me, and once it’s time I’ll get the sole replaced by a Louboutin shoe repairer or leather restoration professional. 

What’s your opinion? Do you think scuffing the red sole is a sin?

Love, 

Innasya x