The visionary Christian Louboutin found inspiration in an unexpected place: the tranquil waters of a Parisian pool one winter morning. It was during his customary meditative laps that Jaden Smith’s name surfaced in his thoughts. The acclaimed multi-hyphenate artist and co-founder of MSFTSrep had first crossed paths with Louboutin back in 2019, making a memorable impression by confidently introducing himself and his friends at a high-profile fashion event in Los Angeles.
Their paths intertwined once more in Paris, and the naturally reserved Mr. Louboutin made a point to extend his personal welcome. Over the years, their encounters, though often brief, were always charged with a palpable spark – a dynamic exchange of ideas that felt endlessly invigorating.
It was that day in the pool that a profound question formed in Louboutin’s mind: What if this electrifying creative synergy could be formalized? Just months later, the iconic fashion house made a groundbreaking announcement, appointing Jaden Smith as its very first men’s creative director. His new role involves crafting four distinct collections each year, encompassing men’s shoes, luxurious leather goods, and accessories. Fans can anticipate his initial capsule collection online and in select stores this January, with his complete debut collection scheduled for release during the men’s fall fashion shows, also in January.
We recently sat down with both Mr. Smith and Mr. Louboutin on a Sunday afternoon to delve into this exciting appointment. Here’s an edited and condensed version of our illuminating conversation.
(Image: Jaden Smith showcased his distinctive style at the Met Gala in May.)
Question: “It’s quite unusual for a prestigious luxury fashion house to entrust its creative direction to someone so young and outside the conventional fashion circles. While Pharrell’s role at Louis Vuitton offers a similar comparison, Jaden is only 27. Do you perceive this as a significant risk?”
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN: “In fashion, the true risk lies in playing it safe. A cautious approach often dilutes the brand’s message. Where there’s risk, there’s an undeniable excitement. So, yes, I believe this is a worthwhile and positive risk.”
Question: “Is this decision primarily driven by a broader business strategy, or is it a purely creative venture?”
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN: “Any business motivation here stems from Jaden’s unique ability to amplify the visibility of our creations and initiatives.”
Question: “Jaden, could you share your overarching vision for your inaugural collection?”
JADEN SMITH: “Our goal is to design footwear for the entire ‘multiverse of men’ – from the grandfather to the father, the eldest son, and the youngest. The patriarch, rooted in a different era, needs specific footwear, as does the father, who navigates more modern times. Then there’s the eldest son, who respects tradition but lives a distinctly different life. And finally, the youngest son, like myself and my generation, is a rebel, forging his own path. We are designing with all these diverse individuals in mind; it’s a narrative that is steadily taking shape.”
Question: “What unexpected insights have you gained about each other since starting this collaboration?”
JADEN SMITH: “One of Christian’s most surprising traits is his architectural prowess. He’s constantly involved in building projects, yet he masterfully runs this incredible company. What’s truly fascinating is how he draws inspiration from shoes for his architectural designs, and vice-versa. I never would have guessed that about him.”
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN: “I’ve been genuinely and delightfully surprised by Jaden’s remarkable speed. We might begin a conceptual discussion, and when it’s time to convey it to the team, Jaden will settle onto a pile of cushions with his laptop. In the most charming way, he signals that he needs his space to work. Less than an hour later, he’ll have a complete presentation ready. He’s incredibly adept at quickly visualizing and illustrating our discussions or his own ideas. It’s no coincidence he’s a musician; his computer truly acts like his piano. He also possesses an incredible talent for galvanizing a creative team, bringing a fantastic energy. There’s even a running joke now: when Jaden comes to town, I notice all the women in the office are immaculately styled, and the men look exceptionally sharp. I once asked a colleague, ‘What’s happening? Is it fashion week?’ and he simply replied, ‘No, it’s Jaden’s week.'”
Question: “Christian, has your collaboration with Jaden prompted you to reconsider any aspects of fashion or your own brand identity?”
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN: “Jaden possesses an incredible visual sensibility. When we discuss a project, his mind instantly explores numerous avenues – suddenly, photography, then music, become part of the conversation. In contrast, when I’m drawing, my focus is solely on that. He’s far more expansive in his approach, openly embracing a multitude of influences.”
Question: “And what commonalities have you discovered between yourselves?”
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN: “Undoubtedly, enthusiasm. Our discussions often transcend just a specific shoe design. Jaden might bring up a sport, and from that, he’d analyze, ‘What I appreciate about that sport is the distinct line on a surfboard, often accentuated by a secondary outline.’ It evolves into a deeply visual dialogue. To construct ideas through imagery and then fully develop them – that’s truly enjoyable. It reminds me of a game, perhaps like badminton or squash, where we’re constantly ‘squashing’ ideas back and forth. I serve the ball – *ping!* He returns it – *ping!* He sends it back – *ping!* It’s a game of squash where nobody loses; we both emerge victorious every time.”
Question: “Jaden, you’ve spoken about incorporating a Dadaist philosophy into your designs. Has this perspective significantly influenced your work in this new role?”
JADEN SMITH: “Absolutely, one hundred percent. My exploration often revolves around defining boundaries: when does an object transcend being merely a shoe to become a sculpture or a piece of art? That delicate line, and how to playfully cross or redefine it, is central to my approach.”
Question: “So, a bit like Marcel Duchamp. Should we expect to see a shoe that also functions as a microwave?”
JADEN SMITH: “It’s less about literal functional mashups and more about the philosophical interplay between a shoe and a sculpture. Christian has truly inspired me in this regard. He’s created high heels that are undeniable sculptures, perhaps not always intended for practical wear, but rather to be appreciated as art. Christian is a genuine artist, and I aim to uphold that artistic legacy through my own design philosophy.”
Question: “Considering your broad and diverse audience, Jaden, how do you plan to balance artistic expression with accessibility in your designs, especially given that not everyone fits into the luxury market?”
JADEN SMITH: “I am absolutely mindful of that, and it’s paramount for me to serve my community. While I can’t reveal too many details about our upcoming collections just yet, I can assure you that accessibility is a topic we discuss very actively and seriously within the studio.”
Question: “Are either of you experiencing any nervousness about this new venture?”
JADEN SMITH: “Initially, I was quite nervous, but Christian has been an incredible leader. He’s made me feel completely comfortable and has shared invaluable knowledge, preparing me thoroughly for this role.”
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN: “More than nervous, I’m simply impatient for what’s to come.”