Christian Louboutin has appointed Jaden Smith as its first-ever Men’s Creative Director, marking a significant milestone for the luxury brand and a new chapter for the actor, musician, and fashion entrepreneur.
The announcement, made in mid-September, positions Smith at the helm of Louboutin’s men’s division, where he will oversee multiple collections annually.
The decision solidifies Louboutin’s efforts to expand its presence in men’s fashion while bringing in new cultural influences.
Founded in 1991, Christian Louboutin is widely recognized for its signature red-soled shoes, a staple on red carpets and runways around the world. Its men’s division, launched in 2010, has steadily grown to account for about a quarter of the brand’s business.
Until now, Christian Louboutin himself had retained direct creative control over the men’s collections. By appointing Jaden Smith, the brand is pointing both a generational shift and a desire to strengthen its identity in the increasingly competitive menswear sector.
Smith will relocate to Paris for the role and is expected to present his first collection at Paris Men’s Fashion Week in January 2026.
As Men’s Creative Director, Smith will lead four collections per year, encompassing shoes, leather goods, accessories, and campaigns. His responsibilities extend beyond design into the broader creative vision for how Louboutin presents men’s fashion.
Christian Louboutin praised the appointment, describing Smith as “a cultural disruptor with creativity and curiosity” who could expand the brand’s reach in a dynamic way.
Jaden Smith has long expressed himself through fashion, often embracing gender-fluid styles and experimental silhouettes. From red-carpet appearances to his own fashion line, MSFTSrep, Smith has positioned clothing as a form of personal identity and storytelling.
Speaking about his appointment, Smith said:
“This is one of the biggest honours of my life. I want to honour Christian’s incredible legacy, but also show the world that men’s fashion can be poetic, bold, and liberating.”
The Paris show in 2026 will be the first major opportunity to see how his personal philosophy translates into Louboutin’s collections.
However, the decision has also reignited conversations about the so-called “nepo baby” debate. Critics have questioned whether Smith’s background as the son of Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith gave him an advantage in securing the role. Others argue that his resume in design is unconventional compared to traditional creative directors.
Fashion commentators note that Louboutin is following a broader industry trend of hiring figures with strong cultural visibility. Pharrell Williams’ appointment at Louis Vuitton in 2023 is frequently cited as a parallel move.
Smith’s involvement may bring new conversations into Louboutin’s orbit, from gender inclusivity in fashion to sustainability and self-expression.