Words by Meg Wordley, October 2026
Christian Louboutin presents its Women’s SS27 show, Eternal Youth: a fairytale of empowerment
On October 2 during Paris Fashion Week, Christian Louboutin put on what can only be described as a theatrical spectacle, setting up stage at the iconic Théâtre du Châtelet. The luxury fashion maison hosted a cabaret performance that sought aesthetic inspiration from beloved fairytale Snow White, following the narrative and eventual celebration of feminine affirmation, where self-expression is shaped by personal choice.
Director Olivier Balazuc and renowned French set and costume designer Bruno de Lavenère worked together to bring the vision of Eternal Youth to life for one night. The pair beautifully crafted a production and stage scape appropriate for a Christian Louboutin show, welcoming a live orchestra, conducted by Mathieu Herzog, and acrobatics, choreographed by Josépha Madoki, to the stage.
Jihyo attended the show, photographed by Sofia Malamute
Starring internationally acclaimed performer Dita Von Teese, Eternal Youth begins in a world of melancholy, with a dull sense of sadness lingering in the air, as if any enchantment had been lost. But hope returns when Von Teese appears. Despite sharing a physical likeness to Snow White – skin pure as snow, lips red as blood – this is where the resemblance ends. This is not simply another story of a heroine being rescued by a prince, but rather the story of a woman writing her own story, claiming her destiny for herself.
Exceptional costumes follow her throughout and guide her through this journey of self-discovery: a corset designed by Mr Pearl, a head piece from British milliner Stephen Jones and an eccentric white cape designed by John Galliano.
Maya Jama attended the show, photographed by Sofia Malamute
One of Christian Louboutin’s most adored creations, La Pigalle, play a guiding role throughout this journey through the dreamlike landscape of Eternal Youth, with the introduction of new silhouettes for the new season. They are not a simple accessory, but rather a catalyst for self-reflection and self-discovery, opening new possibilities.
The story concludes when Von Teese realises and embraces the freedom to accept every facet of herself, feeling a strong sense of release from expectations and projections from external voices. She becomes the sole author of her own story and claims her autonomy.
