The Designer Behind Luxury’s Most Directional Shoes Is Ready for the Spotlight
PARIS — Nina Christen, a decade-long veteran of luxury fashion's most directional shoe designs, is stepping into the spotlight. From Bottega Veneta's Puddle Boots to Loewe's Balloon Pumps, Christen has been a key player behind the scenes. Now, she's taking center stage.
With her new role as design director for footwear at Dior, where she reunites with former Loewe creative director Jonathan Anderson, Christen is also launching her own brand, Christen, with a flagship store in Paris. She's ready to showcase her unique vision and exacting standards.
"I like being in the spotlight," Christen said. "Sometimes I felt like nobody knew I designed a shoe, so it feels nice to finally get that recognition."
Christen's decision to launch her own label stems from her desire for creative freedom and the time to refine her designs. She wants to create footwear that embodies purity, simplicity, and technical engineering, all crafted from luxurious materials. This approach has already garnered attention and admiration.
Her designs have won over celebrity fans like Rosie Huntington-Whiteley and Victoria Beckham. Key retailers such as Bergdorf Goodman, Selfridges, Lane Crawford, and Mytheresa have also embraced her label. Christen's extensive experience at top fashion houses, including Saint Laurent, Celine, and Dries Van Noten, has contributed to her credibility and success.
The designer's understanding of women's footwear needs, honed through her own testing and relentless pursuit of the perfect fit, sets her apart. "Christen offers something fresh," says Selfridges' director of accessories, Sara Wong. "Her shoes fit our customers' desire for refined, sculptural lines without sacrificing comfort."
Christen's ambitions extend beyond footwear. She plans to expand her brand into denim and jewelry, solidifying her presence in the fashion industry. With her eye-catching designs and a growing following, Christen is poised for success.
The designer's next move is set for the US market, where her designs have historically been well-received. "My designs for Bottega always received a huge response in the US," she noted. "A big percentage of Christen clients are in the States."
Despite the challenges of creating an independent footwear brand, especially for female founders, Christen is determined to build her brand and lend her talent to major houses like Dior. "My brand is my life project," she said, reflecting on her journey and future endeavors.
