WELL HEELED
Christian Louboutin appears to be channeling Hollywood’s Golden Age in his new boutique.
The store, which relocated from Beverly Hills, is now housed in a 1930s Tudor building, adjacent to the Hollywood Foreign Press Assn. offices, on Robertson Boulevard across from 3.1 Phillip Lim’s flagship.
A wrought iron gate bearing Louboutin’s signature recalls the entrance gates at nearby Paramount Studios. A giant ceramic parrot greets shoppers at the entrance. Inside the boutique, designed by New York firm 212box, American diner-style bar stools ring the checkout area, which is decorated with tin ceiling panels salvaged from East Coast brownstones.
Ceramic wall tiles with symbols in different alphabets and characters spell out coded messages, perhaps directing shopping to the special second-floor VIP fitting area located behind a sliding mirror.
The trademark elements of Christian Louboutin boutiques worldwide are also in evidence -- the arched wall displays, red carpet and cage-like acrylic vitrines that enclose the high heels as if they were exotic birds, plus the vaguely Middle Eastern touches such as Syrian hand-blown glass ornaments and Lebanese chaises.
Of course, the interior serves only as a backdrop to the latest round of Christian Louboutin stilettos. And, perhaps inspired by the Hollywood location, the fall collection would suit a silver screen vamp, featuring silver patent bow-tied high heels or an ankle-boot version of a classic spectator heel (either is $995). There are also classic clutches ($795) or one called the Cadeau ($895) that features a golden bow detail.
Other fall collection highlights include the Fifre booties ($1,195); a thigh-high version, worn by Madonna, has already sold out. The Louboutin signature shoe -- the studded black Pigalle ($995) pump -- has a matching small-studded bag ($1,395) as well as a men’s version of the shoe that is suitable for a companion ($1,245).
For those who can’t fathom walking in heels for an extended period there are flats, including a glittery jazz pair ($595).
650 N. Robertson Blvd., West Hollywood. (310) 247-9300. 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Satur- day. Noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. www.christianlouboutin.com
EVENTS
Philosophy Saturday: Philosophy makeup artist John Trau will be doling out makeover and application tips using the brand’s new Supernatural line at that Nordstrom at MainPlace in Santa Ana. After the makeover, pop into the Supernatural video booth and model your makeover in a video, then enter to win a Philosophy private party for yourself and five friends. Buy two Philosophy cosmetics and receive a Purity Made Simple 4-ounce cleanser or spend $100 and get a Be Supernatural cosmetic bag. Book a makeover appointment at (714) 972-2020, Ext. 1088.
2820 N. Main St., Santa Ana. (714) 972-2020. 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
www.philosophy.com/supernatural/events.html
OPENINGS
Tobi Tobin: Interior designer Tobi Tobin has opened a boutique to showcase her vintage furniture finds alongside her signature jewelry and couture collection plus housewares, including candles ($85) and linens. The jewelry encompasses high-end chains fashioned from miscellany such as actual Chanel camellias, Swarovski crystals, shoe buckles and war ribbons (starting at $900) plus crocodile leather cuffs ($1,200) and custom family-crest chunky gold rings ($9,400). The couture collection ($375 to $4,800) features made-to-measure and ready to wear gowns, blouses, and tops made by Tobin, a former haute couture model for John Galliano.
8601 Sunset Blvd., Los Angeles. (310) 289-0951. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Noon to 6 p.m. Sunday.
www.tobitobindesign.com
Clarins Skin Spa at Nordstrom: The French luxury skin care brand opened its first West Coast signature spa recently at Nordstrom Topanga. Licensed aestheticians use the Clarins Pro-Formula skin care line and Clarins Touch techniques on facials for women and men. As an opening special, the spa is offering 20% off one-hour facials ($60, regularly $75) through Oct. 17. The facials include a complimentary 10-minute plant mask and hand massage.
21725 Victory Blvd., Canoga Park. (818) 592-4570. 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday. 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday.
www.nordstrom.com
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