Christian Louboutin Names Jaden Smith Men's Creative Director

Christian Louboutin has appointed Jaden Smith as the brand's first men's creative director, marking a significant step in the luxury shoemaker's succession plan. Smith, who has been a long-time admirer and wearer of Louboutin shoes, will move to Paris and debut his first collection during men's fashion week in January, overseeing four annual collections across shoes, leather goods, and accessories. Louboutin praised Smith's style, humility, and respectful nature, emphasizing that the appointment was an organic decision rather than a result of a formal search. This move allows Louboutin to focus more on the women's segment, while Smith brings a multidisciplinary and adventurous approach to revitalize the men’s line, which now accounts for 24 percent of the business. Smith acknowledged the pressure of living up to Louboutin's legacy but expressed excitement about the potential of the men’s division. His appointment follows a trend of fashion houses engaging artists and musicians in creative leadership roles, such as Pharrell Williams at Louis Vuitton and A$AP Rocky at Puma.