The culture and iconography of Egypt have been an enduring passion for Christian Louboutin, one that the designer has channeled in his new Lipqueen sandal. The strappy style—available in both velvet and patent leather—features an architectural heel inspired by the columns of ancient monuments.
Equally influential to Louboutin's creative vision is his longstanding affection for dance—an art form that performers like Ingrid Silva are helping to reach new heights. "As a dancer, you are always working to try to push the limits," says Silva, who performs with New York’s Dance Theatre of Harlem. "The company has dancers from all over the world, and everybody is so multi-talented—that’s what inspires me every day.”
In 2020, Silva co-founded the non-profit organization Blacks in Ballet in order to celebrate and promote diversity in dance. "It’s rare to see ballerinas that look like me,” she says. “We highlight the careers of Black dancers and have created workshops for students internationally."
As a performer and an advocate, she looks for clothes that echo her sense of self. "When I’m off-stage, I love dressing up with accessories that reflect my personality," she adds. "These shoes made me feel powerful; I felt seen.”
