Happy Birthday Christian Louboutin!

Yesterday was Christian Louboutin's birthday, and seeing as he has brought so much joy to the feet of women worldwide, I thought I'd mark the occasion by sharing a few of his current designs. The AW13 collection features plenty of regal colours and gold embellishments, which were brought to life in Louboutin boutique windows using elaborate displays inspired by Ancient Egypt.

The collection also includes this year's new So Kate pump (possibly the ultimate stiletto!), with its classy super-slim heel and pointed toe. It is reminiscent of Louboutin's original Pigalle, but slightly more modern and sleek.

1) Miss Loubi spiked patent-leather clutch, £995
2) Estanado patent-leather ankle boots, £675, 120mm heel with 10mm platform
3) So Kate suede pumps, £395, 120mm heel
4) Daffodile crystal-embellished suede pumps, £3,795, 160mm heel with 60mm platform

Louboutin and his iconic red soles are instantly recognisable, but here are a few facts that you might not know:

• Before setting up his company in 1991, Louboutin worked for Charles Jourdan, Chanel, Yves Saint Laurent, Maud Frizon and Roger Vivier.
• The shade of red chosen for his soles was inspired by an assistant in the office who would wear the same vibrant colour on her lips and nails every day.
• The Louboutin red is officially registered as Pantone shade 18-1663 TPX.
• His single biggest client is Danielle Steel who owns more than 6,000 pairs.
• He refers to his six-inch heels as 'bed shoes' as you can only lay down in them.
• One New Yorker reportedly told her husband that the Christian Louboutin who kept appearing in their bank details was her gynaecologist!

Happy Birthday Christian! Here's to many more years of fabulous footwear to come.