For years, I told myself that my first luxury purchase would be a pair of Louboutin heels. I had admired them for years on my favorite celebrities during red carpet events and late-night TV appearances. There was something about the red sole heel that felt like a next-level statement. When I finally invested in my first pair in 2021, I was a bit surprised by my reaction after trying them on.
“These are the shoes everyone wears. Really? This is it.” It took a moment to adjust from the shoe I had idealized for so long to how it actually looked on my foot. And of course, even more time to decide whether Louboutin heels are truly worth it.
As always, I like to share reviews from my perspective, considering not just the financial side but also how something fits my lifestyle. Your opinion may differ completely, and that’s okay. Today’s conversation is no different. So grab a cup of tea or a drink and settle in to read about one of the most iconic shoes: Christian Louboutin heels, and whether I think they are worth it.
Are The Christian Louboutin Heels Worth It?
Truth be told, for me luxury looks like many things. Some consider the price tag of a product as what makes it luxury, others look for the quality, and with designer items like handbags many look at them as a potential money-making investment. While many see the price tag on a Birkin and find themselves resembling the big eye emoji. It should be noted that an Hermes bag has been noted to increase its value on average by 14.2% – a price better than most stocks. So stylistically, socially and financially – worth it.
But where does the price of investment fit in with a pair of shoes? Ones that are likely going in all the places you’d never sit your Chanel bag and even a few you wouldn’t even want to know about. If you’re investing x amount of money in something you can’t guarantee will maintain its quality, is it really worth the cost?
The Cost Of Owning Louboutin Heels
Before discussing the value of Louboutin shoes, it is worth considering the upkeep required to keep them looking flawless.
From years of admiring red soles and owning a pair myself, I have noticed the areas that wear out the fastest. Social media often shows cobblers replacing the front red sole when the paint wears down and needs to be made sturdier. What is less talked about, but equally important, is the heel leather, which can start to lift over time.
Louboutins come with heel tips, the small rubber pieces around the metal tip. Replacing them is not easy, as I have tried and failed several times, but it is necessary. These tips wear out faster than the soles, and if you do not replace them, or if you wear your heels on cobblestones too often, you will notice the leather lifting, which increases repair costs.
Maintaining Louboutins is more than a financial investment. It is about staying on top of these small details to preserve their iconic look.
How much does it cost to fix a pair of Louboutin heels?
What I found online compared to the prices at my local shoe cobbler surprised me. Aside from scuffs on the leather, the two areas you will eventually need to repair on Louboutin heels are the heel tips and the soles.
Before New Year’s Eve, I went to my cobbler hoping to replace a heel tip. I was pleasantly surprised to learn it was more affordable than I expected. I also discovered a simple solution for the leather lifting where the heel had been caught on cobblestones.
My cobbler explained that swapping out the tips can be challenging. They used a large machine, which made me feel better about not being able to do it at home. He also noted that the replacement tips that come with the shoes are plastic and break easily. By the time he swapped the tips, re-glued the leather to repair lifted areas, and repainted the heel, the cost was around $35 USD.
We also talked about sole repair, which they handle locally. Doing it sooner rather than later helps maintain the quality of the shoes. In the future, I plan to prioritize this repair rather than using stick-on sole grips. The cost for this is about $45 USD.
Are Louboutin’s Comfortable?
Most Louboutin shoes are not comfortable. Even the men’s versions. Now, of course, I haven’t tried all of the shoes so bookmark this for future updates. But it’s generally known as the upfront expectation that you aren’t reaching for red soles for comfort.
Whether due to craftsmanship or just wearing heels, many inserts can make them more comfortable. However, they definitely rate low on the comfort scale – from a girl who lives in heels.
How long does a pair of Louboutin Heels Last?
The lovely thing about a pair of luxury shoes is that the quality of the material makes repairing them more of an option. I’ve had my 100mm White So Kate’s for a few years and there are definitely certain things that break them down more quickly.
The parts that wear out first are the heel tip (replacements included), the red sole (fixable by a cobbler or cover), side scuffs, and the leather on the heel lifting (my current issue).
If you’re able to maintain regular upkeep, there’s no reason these shoes won’t last you a decade or longer.
What Size Should I Buy?
The general rule of thumb when investing in a pair of Louboutin heels is to go up at least half a size. It’s 100% accurate because I couldn’t imagine taking my normal size in these heels.
Where To Buy Your First Pair Of Louboutin Heels?
This will strongly depend on what style, color, and size you’re looking for. There are a few that are only sold on the Christian Louboutin website. But places like Poshmark and Thred Up are great for finding a deal on pre-loved pieces.
Who Are Louboutins For?
I don’t believe a brand is off-limits to anyone, but maintaining Louboutins requires disposable or designated income for a luxury wardrobe.
But even with the wear on the shoes, you still get that natural red sole impact that lets others know you are indeed a Louboutin gal. And that’s a bit of a statement all on its own.
Overall, the vibe for me feels like a few things. You’re wearing them because they make you feel a certain way and embody a certain energy. You’re wearing them as a statement to others who understand the lifestyle by subtly saying you too are on that level. Or maybe you’re just wearing them because you love a luxury shoe moment.
Seeing someone in heels with red soles has become a symbol of power. In movies, the opening shot often shows red soles to signal confidence, strength, and luxury.
The price point of luxury shoes carries not just the quality but the notoriety of what you’re wearing. So the question of a pair of Louboutin Heels value is ultimately up to the wearer.
My First Impressions Wearing The White So Kate 100mm
I took a photo to make sure I was seeing things right. I sent that photo to the girls who would understand both the power of a shoe and my internal debate. I’d never noticed before that there was more toe cleavage than I expected for a pair of closed-toe heels. And I couldn’t quite wrap my head around it.
I originally planned to invest in the 120mm shoes, but since a friend called hers “sitting shoes,” I opted for a slightly shorter pair for more wear. While inserts exist for comfort, I haven’t tried the version for high arches.I tend to walk on the front of my foot.
Given all that: Are Louboutin Heels Actually Worth It?
In my eyes, yes. Now obviously, this comes with the caveat that you’re spending your money in a way that feels good to you. But for me, I always feel that extra bit of confidence in a pair of Christian Louboutin So Kate heels. And it’s definitely not just me who chooses them as a staple.
Law Roach said Zendaya trained herself to walk in 120mm So Kates because they demand so much. The walk, leg toning, and presence make a statement about how you carry yourself.
While they are a financial investment that requires upkeep, wouldn’t you rather invest in something that makes you feel like the highest version of yourself every time you wear them? For me, that mental boost is always worth the price. I’ve also rounded up other luxury items that are worth the cost if you’re curious.
I’ll share more on other luxury pieces soon, so sign up for the newsletter to stay updated. If you want to see daily styling both of my casual and more elevated looks, come follow me on Instagram. Until next time. Xoxo, Savvy
