NecoleBitchie.com has a video of model/video vixen Dollicia Bryan talking about the importance of wearing Red Bottoms (Christian Louboutins) in order to be taken seriously in a creative industry:
Making slight reference to Rosa Acosta and her thoughts on cheap shoes, Bryan says, “Okay, I’m looking at myself…you know I want to be up there. I want to be compared…I want to surpass. When you elevate in your career, you elevated in your fashion. You have a higher competition. Like Beyonce, she didn’t start out in red bottoms but what does she wear now? She didn’t have $30,000 purses before but what does she do now? She elevated herself. When I was capable of purchasing…not somebody else but me purchasing, I know the head manager in Louboutin. They invite me to events that nobody goes to; I get shoes before anybody else. I don’t have to have a guy go out and get them. When I was able to afford it, I went and I started purchasing them.”
And she goes on and on. Listen to the rest below:
Bryan does have a point. Wearing a bad shoe does elevate your outfit like no other. But who says those shoes have to be Louboutin? There are tons of shoe options out there…Brian Atwood, Pierre Hardy, Nicholas Kirkwood, Giuseppe Zanotti, Miu Miu, United Nude, Versace, I could go on… (the Spring/Summer shoes below are from LuisaViaRoma.com).
Not all of them will break the bank, and you can find a lot on sale so that you don’t have to choose between eating and looking good. The emphasis on Louboutin seems silly…and makes me think red bottoms have been a little overexposed. They’re cute, yes, but they are also probably the most painful shoes on the planet.
At any rate, what do you think?
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March 8, 2011 11:09 am
First off, let me just say she sounds like a ditsy chick. Secondly, I agree that when a woman has established her career and is able to afford and (I mean truly afford it– not being a splurge or a treat for her) such brands as Christian Louboutin she is entitled to buy them. However, I do not agree that it is the supreme brand and that ever shoe in your closet should have a red bottom. As Claire stated, there are endless brands to choose from, why limit yourself to the of the moment shoe that people only want because they see celebs in?
March 8, 2011 11:16 am
It’s always great to have a BAD shoe (or any other style staple for that matter) but personally I feel like creating your own style will ‘elevate your game’ more than just having a shoe before anyone else.
March 8, 2011 11:16 am
Ugh! Why?! I thought this site was better than this!
March 8, 2011 11:17 am
Louboutins are quickly becoming the new Coach… overexposed and now all the hoodrats are beginning to wear them. Not a good look.
March 8, 2011 11:18 am
First off, let me just say she sounds like a ditsy chick. Secondly, I agree that when a woman has established her career and is able to afford and (I mean truly afford it– not being a splurge or a treat for her) such brands as Christian Louboutin she is entitled to buy them. However, I do not agree that it is the supreme brand and that ever shoe in your closet should have a red bottom. As Claire stated, there are endless brands to choose from, why limit yourself to the of the moment shoe that people only want because they see celebs in?
SN: And the fact that she keeps calling them red bottoms is irritating. She sounds very annoying and the fact that she wants to be ‘compared’ to Beyonce is ridiculous. Que Swizz Beatz: She’s phony she’s fake, that’s the type of people I hate.
March 8, 2011 11:22 am
I think the reason emphasis is placed on Louboutins is because they have that iconic red bottom. When people see the red bottom, they automatically know that it’s a Louboutin thus expensive.
The shoes posted above are nice, but they don’t have any specific markings that state, “Hey, look, I spent over $1,000 on my shoes!”
I’m not agreeing or disagreeing on the topic at hand, just stating my opinion on why some people see Louboutin as a big deal. :)
I say if you can find a cheap, gorgeous shoe, go for it. But I do know that I have a pair of Louboutins and it does put me in an elevated mindset which works in some situations (job interviews) but not others (being around others who chose not to pay that much for shoes, thus making me appear snotty).
March 8, 2011 11:28 am
Coldplayer, Claire just posted this topic for discussion since it does have to do with Fashion, hence the title of the blog. If you disagree with the discussion then don’t comment but I think its a waste of time to question the sites credibility because you think the post is irrelevant.
Anywho…I was recently debating on purchasing a pair of these highly coveted shoes but decided not to. Reason being because I do think it is “trend” and this is just not one I would blow my money on. I love shoes but to me CL aren’t that serious and they do hurt your feet tremendously (and I was just walking around the shoe area). If you feel that you need a pair of shoes to up your status on how others perceieve you then your problem goes way deeper then whats on your feet.
March 8, 2011 11:32 am
oh boy….I love strippers and video vixens just as much as the next chic…but I’d say you need to stop showing your assets to excel and be taken seriously. Also, living in your means is always smartest…if your shoes cost more than everything in your closet…no, no, no. I understand where she’s trying to go…you are always in your career better off dressing the part of the next position…anywhoo. And I apologize if my remarks are off base – am swamped today and didn’t get a chance to read the entry carefully or listen to her clip.
March 8, 2011 11:42 am
” I know the head manager in Louboutin. They invite me to events that nobody goes to”
LMAO what’s the point of that? They obviously don’t see you as a brand ambassador but as a paying customer who is easily impressed. What better way for you to feel as if you’re making inroads yet still spending your $ on their products. PS most of those stars get those shoes FOR FREE.
Also does Dollicia host a show? been in a movie? have a modelling contract for ads in a magazine I’ve seen? Where exactly have her red bottoms elevated her to?
People can spend their money on what they like but for her to say her red bottoms have elevated her image and that in turn has brought her more jobs or celebrity is just ridiculous. Before this post I can’t tell the last time I saw her name mentioned anywhere.
March 8, 2011 11:43 am
I think it is how you wear the show is what is the most important. The rest of the get up has to be just as sophisticated or it all looks a bit tragic.
March 8, 2011 11:43 am
OMG! Statements like that are the very reason girls with NO SENSE of style run to Neiman Marcus with their tax returns or school refund checks to buy Louboutins. It’s so amateur- If you love them and can AFFORD them, fine. But following suit because rappers talk about them in a song?? Come on now… With that said I LOVE Christian Louboutin because he’s a sick shoe designer- not because the soles of his shoes are red. Let’s do better fashionistas….
GRRRRREAAAT post Claire! :)
-Vanessa
March 8, 2011 11:54 am
I really want people to stop being so hung up on labels. I love Loubis just as much as the next girl, but I cannot realistically afford them and that does make me any less of a hard worker for the industry that I want to be in (fashion). If your shoes are defining the level that you’re on then you need to do some serious evaluation of self. I encourage people to venture out and find other great shoes outside of what they hear on these rap songs. Please list other shoe designers so that people can see that there is shoe life outside of Christian Louboutins.
March 8, 2011 12:00 pm
IMO – high fashion (which we can safely say Louboutin falls in that category) and status are indeed connected (the link being the MONEY to afford the high fashion the boutiques and the trips to the fashion weeks and the couture, etc. etc.) I understand her point about wanting to be taken seriously in a room full of millionaires (meaning maybe you shouldn’t wear cheap shoes in a room full of millionaires, 1. not to seem out of place and then be “excluded/isolated” by the millionaires she wants to be accepted by and 2. if you are trying to snag a millionaire man looking like you can’t hold your own wouldn’t work for those objectives) but the “red bottoms” being big in the hip hop community started because of their mention in rap music and is now a trend thats gone too far…she would have appeared more confident and educated had she not even made the shoes a big deal (because thats how REAL millionaires behave…talking excessively about shoes and clothes as status is a dead giveway you’re not used to the dynamic of having both MONEY and CLASS) but clearly she is a pretty girl who isn’t used to much. #nojudgement #blackgirlsrock
March 8, 2011 12:00 pm
#chilebye… she sounds brainless and ignorant. Great style is great style whether it’s haute couture or Forever 21. There are plenty of people wearing all name brand or (hood couture) who look a haute mess while someone with real style and flair can mix and match and look like a million bucks… She looks just like the rest of them… tight dress, “red” bottoms and booty. Sorry boo. That, my dear, does not equal style/fashion/industry expert… I think this was a wasted post really.
March 8, 2011 12:09 pm
high fashion and status are indeed connected….and how people percieve you should be deeper than fashion but often in 2011 it isn’t. Many woman are able to slutty-esque and high fashion simulatneously…Gaga, Rihanna, etc. Its a catch-22, walk into a room of Millionaires with cheap shoes on and feel uncomfortable (shows you’re not used to things) or walk into a room of millionaires with expensive shoes on and feel great (also shows you’re not used to things, bc ppl with money typically don’t obssess over items they have always been able to buy) so the issue is the perception she is deriving her self-worth from the type of shoess he wears….but again saying the shoes you wear doesn’t affect how you feel is unreasonable. The whole “red bottoms” thing is a hip-hop fad that got out of control (think Hilfiger) and will die out like the rest…i understand her point about the shoes being important trying to get ahead with less talent than the rest in an industry based on superficiality…they are tearing this poor girl and this video to shreds on other sites (referring to her in every sexually derrogatory way possible, saying she is uneducated, shallow, lost, etc…yet most see no issue with themselves for defining another person off one conversation in a video) #nojudgment #blackgirlsrock
March 8, 2011 12:10 pm
I love a great shoe just as much as the next girl and I admit that Louboutin, YSL, A. Wang, etc make up a large part of my shoe collection. But I do it for me and within my means. I completely agree with @Akua Harris and @Joy D.
First of all, if your net worth is well into the negative side you really should be spending that money elsewhere. You can live within your means and still look good. Don’t sacrifice your credit ratings or live in a tiny apartment with 9 roommates just to look like you are “elevated”. And how much sense does it make if you are wearing $900 shoes but can’t afford to keep a stocked fridge?
Second of all, a shoe alone won’t save a horrible outfit. Louboutin does not automatically equal style. If the rest of your outfit implies that you are severely color blind or you seem to wear nothing but spandex… throwing on a pair of Louboutins won’t get you on Vogue’s best dressed list. I realize that Louboutin is the go to shoe because the red lacquer is hard to miss and automatically implies big spending. But please, broaden your horizons. If you are that insecure about your place in society you need visible signals that imply wealth to “elevate” you, you need to reevaluate a lot of things.
And last but certainly not least, know that if your attitude and intelligence are sub-par and if you don’t carry yourself with respect, the shoes you are wearing don’t matter. You could be wearing the sickest shoes and the latest items from Bergdorf’s but honestly, the inability to show some sophistication or finish a complete sentence while adequately presenting an argument (like Ms. Dollicia) will keep you basic. “Elevation” does not end at your ankles. And trying to rep a designer whose name you seem to be unable to pronounce further gets you a side eye.
March 8, 2011 12:12 pm
EYEROLL. Guess I just don’t care THAT much about fashion.
March 8, 2011 12:12 pm
Its a bit overrated n I would never BUT if i had $ like Beyonce i would by wateva the heck i wanted including these
March 8, 2011 12:20 pm
the entire video sounds like this shallow bubblehead is just trying to start some personal war with rosa acosta. i love how she thinks that her expensive clothing is going to set her apart from all the other video/magazine models…sorry to say, it’s not going to happen, because there is nothing that exceptional about her in comparison to the rest of those girls. and the fact that she thinks she’s elevated when she actually has to BUY all of these expensive shoes is hilarious, because many celebrities don’t even have to shell out any money for designer clothing. they are often gifted clothing, given discounts, and sometimes don’t even own what they are wearing and are just borrowing it. there are also many celebrities, like beyonce and sarah jessica parker, who mix high and low fashion.
expensive designer clothing does not necessarily set people apart and elevate them. having good style and a sense of whats appropriate for your shape does. as for the louboutin craze, there are plenty of designer shoes that are just as gorgeous, louboutins are just extremely trendy and have a certain cachet now that desperate girls like dollica latch on to. i believe in buying the best that you can afford and rocking it, because there are beautiful pieces at every price level. am i saying that i never want louboutins? no, because i think they are beautiful well made shoes, but if i don’t ever have any, i’ll be fine because i think i have style otherwise.
March 8, 2011 12:21 pm
1. Buying or receiving a pair of Christian Louboutins should be something that YOU wanted and not because it will “elevate your style game.” My boyfriend brought my 1st pair because I was graduating from college and knew it was a special day for me. Yes, he gets mad at me because I hardly wear them but that’s not the point! Lol. Yesterday I brought with my hard earn money another pair. I didn’t buy them because I figure this would “elevate my game” but because I work 2 jobs, I have 80% of funds for a new car in the bank and I wanted to treat myself. I’m not trying to step on anyone’s toes and I DID AGREE with Clarie about other fancy shoes that can do danger without “red bottoms”; but for the TRUE FASHIONISTAS out there who knew about Christian Louboutins before the hype and respectfully call them by their correct name. Let us have our cake and eat it too!
We’re all here for one thing and that is fashion, for the others who are jumping on the band wagon let them because those are the ones who can’t even pronounce the names!
March 8, 2011 12:32 pm
Great question Claire…
While I was in Charlotte this weekend I bought a pair of CL’s and I thought to myself, if this same style of shoe didn’t have a red bottom would I really pay $968 for them? Probably not. They’re fierce, but merely a sparkly black sling back with a platform heel.
I honestly think women are crazy over Louboutins because it is one of the few shoes that people know the price point just by seeing the red bottom. You could know absolutely nothing about luxury brands and see a red bottom and know that it is an expensive shoe. You just don’t get that same effect from Casadei or Mui Mui.
But then you have shoes like the Pigalle that look amazing in a business meeting. I could wear a black sheath dress with my Pelle Moda pumps and look great. But when I wear that same dress with CL, people break their necks out the elevator to see who that is wearing those “expensive” shoes. I do consider certain styles of CL to be “Power Pumps.”
On a side note: How dare she compare herself to Beyonce. Since when did Beyonce ever gain success, wealth and fame by showing her butt tooted up in a thong? I digress.
I think CL can really accentuate a great outfit as any great shoe. But my closet is not limited to luxury designers. Please believe I own that new Jessica Simpson Colie’s in sand. If they were $1000 I would still buy them… but only $100 at Nordstrom is a steal.
March 8, 2011 12:35 pm
Uh, no. I define my own style and I don’t need a pair of expensive shoes to define me. Beyonce, Rihanna, etc. (who probably get these joints for free anyway) are wealthy enough to afford these shoes. As for me, I’d rather build my wealth by investing, and that doesn’t mean investing in a pair of shoes.
March 8, 2011 12:47 pm
I think the people who are relevant and judge you/your style by the shoes you wear, are aware of more than one brand, and would be able to see if you were wearing a pair of expensive shoes like Guiseppe Zanotti’s, without having to have a large LABEL in their face. I think people tend to take you more seriously when its not so ”in your face” it doesn’t look forced.
However, I would love a pair of Louboutins, not because i want everyone to know i’m wearing a pair of expensive, i genuinely adore the iconic Red soles and the look of the shoes.
March 8, 2011 12:47 pm
Great question Claire…
While I was in Charlotte this weekend I bought a pair of CLs and I thought to myself, if this same style of shoe didn’t have a red bottom would I really pay $968 for them? Probably not. They’re fierce, but merely a sparkly black sling back with a platform heel.
I honestly think women are crazy over Louboutins because it is one of the few shoes that people know the price point just by seeing the red bottom. You could know absolutely nothing about luxury brands and see a red bottom and know that it is an expensive shoe. You just don’t get that same effect from Casadei or Mui Mui.
But then you have shoes like the Pigalle that look amazing in a business meeting. I could wear a black sheath dress with my Pelle Moda pumps and look great. But when I wear that same dress with CL, people break their necks out the elevator to see who that is wearing those “expensive” shoes. I do consider certain styles of CL to be “Power Pumps.”
On a side note: how dare she compare herself to Beyonce. When did Beyonce ever gain success, wealth and fame by showing her butt tooted up in a thong? I digress.
I think CL can really accentuate a great outfit as any great shoe. But my closet is not limited to luxury designers. Please believe I own that new Jessica Simpson Colie’s in sand. If they were $1000 I would still buy them… but only $100 at Nordstrom is a steal.
March 8, 2011 12:50 pm
since my comment isn’t showing up…short answer, no. dollica is a shallow bubblehead who doesn’t know what she’s talking about. even beyonce, the woman she keeps referencing, mixes high and low fashion items, compounded with the fact that she probably gets a good amount of her designer items for free as gifts or the may be borrowed. either way, designer clothing is not elevating doliicia above the rest of the video/magazine models, because she’s not that exceptional on her own merits.
March 8, 2011 12:54 pm
There is a difference between style and following fads. Someone who possesses true style doesn’t need to buy “CLs” to “elevate” themselves. To me is seems as though she is playing into the hype of CLs. This discussion reminds me of my days in high school when everyone had Jordans and in order to be considered cool you had to have a pair.
You should wear things you love and not to impress others. If you feel secure within yourself it wouldn’t matter how you are perceived by others regardless of their socioeconomic status. And Beyonce doesn’t just wear higher end designers she also wears high street brands as well.
March 8, 2011 12:56 pm
I’m sorry but Dollicia Bryan sounds like your typical materialistic black female who is jumping on the fashion bandwagon. I only say this because she’s gained a following due to her “modeling” has made a little money and can “afford” to keep up the Joneses i.e. Beyonce. What difference does it make that she knows the Louboutin manager and gets invited to events as well as shoes before anyone else? There are so many other upscale brands that would make Loubous look like payless shoes. I feel like she’s trying to portray an image that actually doesn’t exist.
Her analogous piece refrencing Beyonce Knowles, Louboutins, and $30k handbags made no sense in my opinion. Ten years ago, not too many people were wearing Louboutin which has only increased in popularity within the last three of four years. All you heard about were Choo, Blahnik, etc. Its people like Beyonce and Rihanna with the fame and large notarity that have designers and shoe companies clamouring to send their products to her because seeing her on the red carpet with such pieces drives the demand and popularity of these companies and their product. I totally agree with the young lady above…Loubous are a hip-hop fad that has gotten out of control.
March 8, 2011 12:57 pm
I hope that she is making Beyonce-esque money to be rocking Beyonce-esque shoes. Celebs also receive a lot of free swag from designers.
March 8, 2011 12:58 pm
But wait…it’s Dollicia Bryan. Why is she comparing her “elevation” (especially career-wise) to Beyonce’s? I googled her and didn’t see a single Louboutin in her photos. Her target audience is concerned with T&A, not what shoes she is wearing.
Louboutins are fabulous shoes, but they are certainly not necessary in order to “elevate your style game.” I have seen too many young ladies run out to buy a pair, and then look absolutely RIDICULOUS struggling to walk in them. Style is about what you wear, as much as it is about how you wear it. Don’t get caught up with brand names.
March 8, 2011 1:00 pm
I just feel like she’s telling black women that you’re outfit means nothing without a pair of red bottoms and you need to break your neck to have them in order to be taken seriously. This is one of the many reasons our people are financially drained and misguided. Living champagne lifestyles on beer budgets!
March 8, 2011 1:07 pm
Hello,
Thats right! Over exposer…dont get me wrong there are some nice red bottoms, but to make a big deal out of them like their a cure for cancer or answer to poverty and starvation is ridiculous. I think treating yourself to a nice pair of anythings is worth it, but if your shoe defines you then your not worth much more than that price tag on that shoe, babe! Lets not be foolish, live your life dont let life live you!
March 8, 2011 1:12 pm
Silly rabbit…so she spends all her ends on “trying to reach a status” but does she not realize when she gets old and played her money will stop rolling in?? Its not like she as a “real talent” (that I know of) and will be able to live off of it for a long time. All the women she named that are able to afford them, make money off royalties and such. She as a video vixen doesnt get paid everytime they play that video, she got one lump sum. For her to say she doesnt wait on a man to buy her shoes for her is bull…when you shake your rump in the video, in a sense that rapper is paying to show your “assets”. I hope she keeps praying for jobs because in a minute, budget cuts in videos can be a *****
March 8, 2011 1:27 pm
If its a status piece that you feel that you need then so be it, its a preference. I personally think its best to live within my means and spend money on items that will give me mileage for years.
I mean if you’re rationing saltines and extending the life of your Brita filter to get a pair of CL’s then I think you need to reevaluate your priorities. lol.
Taking my cue from First Lady M.O.(because she said it best), don’t buy a designer buy what you like. Exclusively purchasing luxury brands, does not a stylish person make. It’s your own personal style coupled with work ethic that makes you stand out…at least in my experience.
March 8, 2011 1:41 pm
I personally feel like the Louboutins are overated.There are certain styles of his like the Daffodil from the new collection that are dope yet I dont feel the need to cop a shoe just for the Red Bottom. There are several shoe designers that are POOPING on Loubies shoes. Georgina Goodman,Nicholas Kirkwood, Versace,Diego Dolcini,Ruthie Davis and so many more make shoes that could give Loubies a run fo there money. I agree with the poster above that said her status must not be as great as she thinks because most people that she’s looking up to i.e Beyonce gets her Loubies for FREE.I personally am not intrigued or amused by anthing I see everyone in and I mean EVERYONE because there are sites knocking off his shoes and they look very very close.Dont follow Fads people bcuz you think it gives you social status..it just makes you look like a #CLONE.
March 8, 2011 1:46 pm
Beelle…Im pressing the like button on your comment lol
March 8, 2011 1:48 pm
To elevate your style means to elevate yourself.
Style never comes from the brand, it comes from the image.
March 8, 2011 2:02 pm
I think people holding Christian Louboutins in this high regard is becoming quite ridiculous. A few years ago you weren’t hot if you were not rocking Manolo Blahniks. There will be another brand that everyone will be going crazy after when Loubs fade away. That’s just how fashion goes. What I’m disappointed about is the fact that she sounds like she’s allowing labels to represent her worth. There are tons of rich people who don’t buy or possess expensive things. My point is designer labels should not determine your worth.
March 8, 2011 2:05 pm
Just a few years ago you were not hot unless you had a pair of Manolo Blahniks. There will be another brand that everyone will go crazy for as Christian Loubs fade away. That’s just how fashion goes. What I think is sad is that she sounds like she’s allowing labels to determine her worth. No designer labels should determine what you’re worth.
March 8, 2011 2:15 pm
I put her into the same category as people who go out and buy designer clothing/accessories with big logos all over them. Tacky.
March 8, 2011 2:22 pm
Fever make some really great shows for affordable prices. If she feels she needs it, who am I to tell her otherwise. It’s all in the mind.
March 8, 2011 2:27 pm
and when you take them off and reveal bunon covered toes….i wonder who you are going to impress.
“Red Bottoms” hurt like hell and I just couldnt see myself wearing them..even if i got them for free.
And she needs to stop Beyonce wouldnt take her seriously if she owned a damn Loubie store…smh these chicks be killing me.
How bout you got to school, get a good job, and bust your ass to elevate yourself. THIS is why the USA will continue to go down the drain….
LOL who even let this chick on the radio?!? killing me softly right now…
March 8, 2011 2:53 pm
An overall great sense of style doesn’t begin with a “brand name,” or in this case “red bottoms.” It has more to do with expressing your unique vision apart from the pack in a captivating manner. Personally I love variety, but I also know what works for me. I know people, and due to the very image they are trying to portray by rocking red bottoms, have no savings, and ask me for metro cards to go to work. Smh! I’m still a shoe girl & I’m still drooling over and contemplating the Christian Louboutin Spiked Platform Slingback in red and in black. I will still be me whether or not I purchase them AND no one can tell me any different. I will always strive to be a very self sufficient, resilient, and an overall positive woman with bad a## shoes that don’t break my bank or back for that matter. When we allow material things to define who we are as human beings; there lies a huge problem and void.
I love a great shoe period. As long as it doesn’t “look” cheap or hurt my feet, I’m there. There are so many shoe brands out there that can make a girl feel fabulous at any budget. Ranting about material things “making you” is never a good look. There are more important things in the world that we need to address. For example, it’s okay if you are typically a size 6 to go up to an 8 if need be. Just rip off the tag. Let go of the ego and make it work. Fashion! LOL! You won’t believe what going up a size and taking it in if necessary can do to an outfit. May I add, Charles Jourdan, Charles David, and Charles Albert (don’t sleep) ect. The shoe game is vast and plentiful. High and low! Plus many of these celebrities get things for free. Which is fine, but what’s there’s doesn’t have to be mine.
March 8, 2011 3:19 pm
I think a bad shoe does more than just complete your look…it gives you confidence knowing you look great from head to toe. With that being said, it can come from anywhere and the dependency on “Red Bottoms” says more about an insecurity than anything else. I make my shoes/clothes relevant not the other way around. Although I understand Dollicia’s point, I never knew who she was before all this so she can’t be THAT elevated!!!
March 8, 2011 3:53 pm
Instead of using superficial objects to validate our “elevation”, let’s look at her inability to provide a well articulated interview. None of what she said is grammatically correct.
While it’s nice to subscribe to the “it ain’t trickin’ if you got it mentality”, going to the next level for an artist is less about labels and more about the ability to sale records. The same way I respect Beyonce’s Loub “shoe game”, I’d undoubtely respect her if she had on a pair of Steve Maddens.
March 8, 2011 4:36 pm
I agree with you! SHe sounds foolish & she’s of very basic tastes. She wears what she sees. Woo hoo! Excite me & step out in a Vivier creation! OR better yet, something that you wear because you love it, not because you want to be validated. There is too much validation going on in this world today! I long for the individual, actually a cult of individuals, to rule.
March 8, 2011 4:42 pm
“I don’t believe there’s such a good thing as good taste or bad taste.”
-Marc Jacobs to Harper’s BAZAAR
March 8, 2011 5:10 pm
*but what’s theirs doesn’t have to be mine.
March 8, 2011 5:15 pm
ummmm…. who is this chick? I’ve never seen her anywhere and it sounds to me like she lucked up and had a rappers baby to afford those shoes. Spend within your means, Kimosabe, not someone else’s.
March 8, 2011 5:26 pm
She sounds like such a bird. She probably can’t even pronounce Louboutin. If she is able to afford them then fine but it’s not the end all be all shoe. But it’s all good she can stick to her “red bottoms”. S/N Charlotte Olympia makes a pretty sick pump.
March 8, 2011 5:29 pm
Only wearing red bottoms is almost equivalent to matchy matchy…
You didnt think too hard did you now?
March 8, 2011 5:40 pm
People who only buy Loubs are just like those people who only buy MAC makeup and Coach purses…tacky! Christian Louboutin makes some beautiful shoes, but if you believe that those are the only hot luxury brand shoes then you are sadly mistaken. Personally I had enough disposable income for expensive shoes, I’d probably spend them on a cute pair of Brian Atwoods and be just as happy.
March 8, 2011 5:43 pm
@ Brit…
Co–Sign.
I’m so disappointed in black celebs. It just like high school all over again. If she has a Coach then I have to wear a Coach.
Why are Today’s black celebs sooo narrow minded and can’t dress worth a darn. I mean really. I have the internet, I know how to go to Russian websites to see what designers the uber wealthy are wearing? Your stylist is that stupid just to copy what the next simple chick is doing???
That is why when you go into the black community or clubs, everybody looks exactly like the next cause it is all about conforming and trying to outshine the next person by wearing the same exact thing.
These chicks are not worth it. No true fashion sense. No appreciation for cutting edge innovation. Just whack.
simple bissshesssss.
March 8, 2011 6:37 pm
Im sorry, didnt listen to the interview. Just from what I read I knew I would be dumber just for listening so I didn’t. Its very funny tho, the other day one of m guy friends told me (he’s very candid) ppl judge who they will and wont date on the shallowest standards including money, where they come from and how they look. He mentioned that in the past I didnt dress or present myself as well as I do now and this is why ppl higher up the ladder consider dating me now. He believed that this was because now that I had a better job and was making more money I could afford to carry myself in a better and stylish way. Unfortunately it was simply that I had “found” myself and my style. The clothes I wear now are actually CHEAPER than what I did before and i frequently find myself being more stand out and fashion forward than more expensively dressed ladies. What I’m saying pretty much is this: its unnecessary to be a label whore or spend a lot of money to be “fixed” or elevate yourself. Find your style and work with it. And another thing I always say…Dress down to the very last drop. Dont just throw on anything, really quirk the little details…your shoes, your charms, your hair. When you step out the door you wanna appear that you really finished dressing
March 8, 2011 7:25 pm
Ugh!!!
Grateful I don’t know the show or the 2 women speaking, I watched 8 seconds and couldn’t take the Valium-slurred baby voice anymore. “Red bottoms”?! We should all weep! D-List celebs have been over-exposing Louboutin for too long now! There are MANY design houses out there! YOU – Beyonce! Kardashian coven! Nicki Minaj! Ciara! And the rest of you, for the love of God, stop closing down Saks to pick up the season’s blingiest arrivals, head to Tokyo and Amsterdam and find a style game!
March 8, 2011 7:51 pm
@ KlosetLover
thank you kindly. I just find the hype over the “red bottoms” just a bit obsessive. There’s a difference between adopting a status piece because its popular and pinpointing your own because it’s a part of your optimum idea of style.
March 8, 2011 7:54 pm
Is it possible to be into fashion but opposed to spending $500+ on a pair of shoes? For the first time in my life, I have the means to buy Loubis, but I just can’t bring myself to spend on 2 pairs of shoes what could buy me a week long vacation. hrm. I find cute shoes for less than $200. I don’t think I’ll ever splurge on the “red bottoms.” sorry.
March 8, 2011 8:03 pm
ok so I had some time to burn and I watched the video…time I will never get back.
on another note, I had no idea Forever 21 sold shoes. They’re really expanding huh!!
March 8, 2011 8:06 pm
This is ridiculous! This is what is wrong with society today…to worried mundane material stuff, like the color on the bottom of your shoes! Come people…it’s nice to have good quality shoes, no matter the color of the bottom or the price tag. I hope folks are just as concerned with bettering themselves in a positive manner, their education, and getting a 401k….things that will help you live comfortable in the future… hell, I love fashion like the next chick, and had to have another closet built because of my love for fashion… but I will not be defined by a price tag or by the color at the bottom of the a shoe. Louboutin’s are nice, but why should a chick not be taken serious because the bottom isn’t red… That just sounds silly! Lol!
March 8, 2011 9:22 pm
yes red bottoms are cute and show that you have alot of “money” or “power” but: should you let a shoe make you or break you? im siding with rosa acosta. she’s still one of the baddest in my opinion and can wear a shoe from payless, and thats saying something because i dont even use the word bad in that sense!
March 8, 2011 9:27 pm
[...] Do you need red bottoms to elevate your style game via Fashion Bomb Daily [...]
March 8, 2011 11:08 pm
I seriously watched 3min of the video and stopped it, I find it hard to listen to people I can’t take seriously… CL’s are nice shoes, nothing wrong with having them if you can afford them, but they are not the ONLY shoes on the planet.. me personaly I rock any type of shoes.. from Aldo to DSW… and on. if you feel the need to wear what everybody else is wearing to feel relevant, then that just shows that you have no self confidence, and fashion is definately the opposite.
March 8, 2011 11:52 pm
LET ME SAY THIS, I have never heard about this chick. After Super-head I decided to ignore the video vixen/”model” buzz. I am a fashion merchandising student. I discuss and study brands everyday that I cannot afford as a I striving college student. I have made splurges on handbags and shoes that I value very much but at the end of the day, WE, meaning people put value on material things. I love the creativity and talent of the couture houses and designers but I know fashion is not everything. Fashion does not make me important. My mind will take me further than a Berkin bag or Cartier ring. This chick claims she loves and knows fashion but in every picture she is wearing skin tight clothing. Ok, she can afford “Red Bottoms” without a man but you still expose yourself by being half-dressed and shaking your goodies in videos for them. Yes, people do judge appearances but do you know how many times people thought my clothes were from department stores when I actually purchased them from Forever 21 or H&M. A label doesn’t make anyone stylish or important. Bryan sounds stupid. And I remember that Maino comment regarding Rosa Acosta’s “cheap shoes”. It was ignorant statement reflecting the poor man turned rich mentality. If he can’t take me to an event because of my shoes he is an insecure NOBODY. I am just sick of society sending these messages. Minorities worry about labels while “the man” buys restate, stocks, bonds, has retirement plans, 401ks, and owns businesses and homes. SMH. I am done FASHION BOMB, I am too annoyed to write any more.
March 9, 2011 2:15 am
I agree wholeheartedly with Vanessa and many others! Such a simple mindset and one the bankrupts many women and men particularly in the African American community. People are too concerned with stuntin and showing people what they can “afford” instead on being secure with their style or bank accounts on their own I really find it very sad!
March 9, 2011 9:13 am
Coming from a video model, i dont take anything they say seriously. I have a career and i make way more than i made 10 years ago, i still wont spend it on RED BOTTOMS. Especially, because the hood is too intune to the red bottom craze. I would do Pierre and definitely a more comfortable shoe like brian atwood. I rather wear shoedazzle and own a home.
March 9, 2011 9:29 am
I agree with the majority. So I need to step my “Red Bottom” game up if I want to elevate myself? Maybe her boyfriend Hill Harper should give her a copy of his book “Letter to a young sister: define your destiny.”
March 9, 2011 9:49 am
This is one of the most ignorant things I have ever heard. It seems she is assigning connotes status with Louboutin. That is so immature on so many levels and from my perspective makes her status (or lack thereof) even more apparent. I have a closet full of Louboutin, Giuseppi, Brian Atwood and LV shoes. But I also have shoes from Target. I love fashion and I am FLY Every Day. I study fashion not, what label will give me a false sense of status. She is just thirsty, wha a sad way to live. No wonder her reputation proceeds her.
March 9, 2011 11:30 am
One last thing – people that really know fashion know fashion and dont need to see a “red bottom” to know you spent money on your outfit…
March 9, 2011 1:46 pm
Co-Sign Lola!
i’ve worked in fashion for over 10 years and yes, while i do have red bottoms, i have other shoes that are just as gorg & finish an outfit like perfection!
its so easy to find a red bottom to finish a look- but putting together a fantastic look with all different labels is whats really key! done & done
March 9, 2011 4:15 pm
I am a lawyer with a honors degree, awesome credit, no student loans, and a handsome salary. I happily shop at Forever 21, and think I’m fly enough to stand out, even in a room filled with millionaires, rich clients, etc., regardless of what I wear. I’m not out to impress, but I’m pretty darm impressive. I’m all about mixing high and low together. People often think my cheap gear is just as pricey as my expensive stuff. It’s about how you carry yourself and presentation. Enough with the Forever 21 bashing, and get some confidence to be bold enough and to do you without sweating what everyone else is doing.
March 10, 2011 11:46 am
Say that then Annie! In *looks at student loan papers* 16 years I will be the same lol.
I feel like people lean on CL’s too much for fashion. They are great but do more then that.
March 10, 2011 5:03 pm
dollicia who?….. girl boo…. next….
fashion & class go hand in hand. & judging from some of the comments she made, she has very little
March 12, 2011 8:20 pm
I want to add that the whole 500+ dollar shoe thing is just like the 200+ dollar jean thing from about 5 years ago. “We” as in human beings, fall for anything.
March 12, 2011 8:21 pm
never pay 500+ for shoes you can’t walk or work in for 8 hrs.
March 12, 2011 8:26 pm
She sounds foolish. Like one of the sheeple. She seems like a nice girl but not to bright.
I feel conflicted about these shoes and here why. Christian Louboutin is a brother and I like supporting blk business. But…. These shoes have become ubiquitous with prerecession excess.
March 12, 2011 8:27 pm
I prefer Manolo Blahnik and Cole Hann. Vera Wang for Lavender flats are the business and Mui Mui flats are also cute. The red bottoms on Louboutins makes me feel as if I’m showing off. I like to be understated. My things should look of the highest quality but you can’t tell where I buy them from.
March 14, 2011 8:11 am
[...] shoes are certainly giving red bottoms a run for their money, [...]
March 14, 2011 4:59 pm
Co-sign on the comment that Louboutins are becoming the new Coach, at least in terms of otherwise fashionably-challenged individuals flocking like lemmings to the latest trend. And I say this as someone who owes a couple pairs that have been worn a grand total of 6 times over 3 years because they are indeed THE most painful shoes I own. For high-end designer comfort, I’d go with Brian Atwood, YSL, or Gucci. Otherwise, I’d look for less expensive brands like Charles Jourdan, who offers those sky-high, French-aesthetic heels in luxe materials at a fraction of the price.
March 14, 2011 6:56 pm
OMG please stop calling them “Red Bottoms” that sounds so ignorant! It’s too bad rappers mentioned Christian Louboutin shoes in their songs, now all these hood people suddenly like them. LOL stick to what you were wearing… tacky MONOGRAM GUCCI & please lay off the Louboutins. Thanks !
April 12, 2011 8:46 pm
I agree with most of the comments that I’ve read! Honestly I adore CL, but let’s be honest that’s rent/morgage/car note! and YES most celebs get CL’s as well as other hot labels for free. With that being said, stay in your price range, don’t try to live a life that you know you can’t afford! If you can afford it, then GREAT. There are many beautiful brands, heck I’ll rock a Steve Madden/J.Simpson/BCBG ANY DAY AND LOOK FAB! THANKS! ;)
January 6, 2012 10:22 am
[...] Though we mentioned several alternative shoe brands in this archived Fashion Discussion titled, “Do You Need Red Bottoms to Elevate Your Shoe Game?, perhaps that post wasn’t clear…so we broke it down with 15 of our favorite (non red bottom) [...]
January 6, 2012 10:48 am
[...] we mentioned several alternative shoe brands in this archived Fashion Discussion titled, “Do You Need Red Bottoms to Elevate Your Shoe Game?, perhaps that post wasn’t clear…so we broke it down with 15 of our favorite (non red [...]