Christian Louboutin Gives Emotional Tribute to Diane von Furstenberg & Accepts FIT Couture Council Award

Ella Chochrek

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Christian Louboutin kicked off New York Fashion Week today by receiving a big honor — the Couture Council Award for Artistry of Fashion.

In an emotional speech at Lincoln Center, the designer reflected on the humble beginnings of his career — and paid tribute to an old friend who helped kick-start his business, Diane von Furstenberg.

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“She’s my godmother, she’s my sister, she’s my travel companion, she’s my oracle, she’s my partner in every crime,” Louboutin told the crowd. “She has always been a radiant of support, emotionally and professionally.”

Addressing their three-decade-long friendship, Louboutin recalled how he sold his first shoes in the United States from von Furstenberg’s table — before he had an office space of his own.

“I owe her so much, but more than that, I love her so much,” the shoe legend said. “To me, this award is also a celebration of love and friendship, so I would like to share this award with her, my oldest friend, Diane von Furstenberg.”

Before Louboutin took to the stage, he was introduced by actress Priyanka Chopra, who sported a pair of white Louboutin slingback pumps.

“These iconic shoes that women around the world have worn make…each one of us real women, everyday woman when we wear these shoes, when we own our first pair, we achieve such a sense of achievement, a sense of pride,” Chopra said. “It gives you the little extra oomph that you need.”

Sponsored by Nordstrom, the Couture Council Award Luncheon was held as part of festivities for New York Fashion Week, which officially begins tomorrow, and meant to benefit the Fashion Institute of Technology’s museum. Louboutin’s award recognizes his lifelong contributions toward advancing the craft of the fashion industry. The past five recipients of the honor include Carolina Herrera (2014), Manolo Blahnik (2015), Albert Kriemler (2016), Thom Browne (2017) and Narciso Rodriguez (2018).

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