Never underestimate the power that shoes hold over women. Especially when those shoes happen to be the alluring red-soled beauts that make shoe divas fall in lust at first sight. That much was evident at Neiman Marcus at Fashion Island Saturday when shoe czar Christian Louboutin met with hundreds of fawning fans who all clamored to get their $600-to-well over $1,000 pairs of shoes signed by the French designer.

Some waited nearly two hours to get their shoes autographed. Popular purchases included a slew of Louboutin’s patent leopard stilettos, platform loafer booties and glitter slingbacks. (Click on the jump for more Louboutin action.)

The scene was very reminscent of when Mr. Manolo Blahnik made a personal appearance at Neiman Marcus last year, when 400 Manolo devotees showed up and Mr. Blahnik himself was quite the dapper and ever-gracious designer. This year, attendance for Mr. Louboutin likely topped that, with 500 in attendance within two hours of his visit and there was more fan frenzy.

While Louboutin signed thoughtful phrases onto each customer’s shoe using assorted colorful Sharpies, he was pleasant but not as buoyant as Mr. Blahnik was. A petite Louboutin was dressed in a pink V-neck sweater over a crisp white button down and pinstriped pants. His shoes? A lively pair of striped alpargatas that could have been a pair of TOM’s Shoes.

These ladies must have tried on a dozen pairs. Each.

” Oh my god, I can’t believe I just got to meet him. That was insane! I have 10, wait, now 11 pairs of Louboutins.” — Heather Hufnagel, 31 of Costa Mesa.

Glitter slingbacks: $690

Each purchase garnered a quick photo op with the designer and Neiman Marcus will mail the pic to each customer along with a thank you note.

A model flaunts a pair of magenta fringe peep-toe sandals. Price: $1,020

Posted in: Sales & Events • Shoes |

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