Instantly recognizable worldwide,  a pair of Christian Louboutin heels — or “Louboutins” — are the ultimate status symbol for the modern woman. One can easily identify a Louboutin by the iconic red soles, which are the epitome of luxury, power, and — with the price tag occasionally reaching five figures — wealth.  The Louboutin brand has become such a vital part of the fashion hierarchy that designers  including the likes of Chanel, Dior, and Yves Saint Laurent,  frequent Louboutin for shoes for their runway shows.

After over two decades of at the forefront of luxury shoe design, the seasoned designer’s work is celebrated by Toronto’s Design Exchange museum with its Christian Louboutin exhibition, honouring the French designer’s design and artistry. The exhibition, which marks North America’s first ever retrospective of Louboutin’s work, showcases over 250 pairs of the designer’s most popular and iconic shoes, including a towering ten-inch slipper and a boot made completely out of various animal hairs.

The theme of the exhibition is a combination of a cabaret/burlesque show and a funhouse; shoes are displayed on moving carousels, spotlighted by flood lighting, hidden under bell jars, and showcased in halls of mirrors. The exhibition is cleverly divided into various sections, each representing a different theme of Louboutin’s work. These include  a section entitled “Handcrafted”  that showcases one-of-a kind boots, stilettos and even a pair of pink pointe shoes.

The multiplicity of detail, style, and form represented in Louboutin’s shoes and designs is unparalleled, adding to the allure of his one-of-a-kind creations. Louboutin’s success can be attributed in part to his love of travel, architecture, and entertainment, which ensures that no two pairs of shoes are alike. After over 20 years as a shoe designer and showing no hint of slowing down, Christian Louboutin has created a brand adorned and celebrated by not only fashion’s elite, but the entire world.

The Christian Louboutin exhibit at the Design Exchange runs until September 15, 2013