Archive & Investment

Collectible
Houses

Eight houses whose silhouettes transcend seasons — with the founding dates, signatures and notes each collector should know before the next acquisition.

CL
Est. 1991

Christian Louboutin

Paris, France

Red-lacquered sole, sharply cut vamp

What to collect

Very Kate 100 · So Kate 120 · Pigalle Follies

Archive note

The most recognisable sole in the world — and the most consistently strong resale.

Collectible rating ★★★★★
MB
Est. 1970

Manolo Blahnik

London, UK

Immaculate proportion, jewel brooches

What to collect

Hangisi 105 · Campari · Carolissima

Archive note

Hand-finished in Italian ateliers; archival pairs now attract collector interest.

Collectible rating ★★★★★
JC
Est. 1996

Jimmy Choo

London, UK

Crystal detailing, fluid draping

What to collect

Saeda 100 · Abel glitter pumps · Sacora mules

Archive note

Red-carpet workhorses; limited evening styles hold their value best.

Collectible rating ★★★★☆
AM
Est. 2018

Amina Muaddi

Milan, Italy

Flared sculptural heel, crystal embroidery

What to collect

Rosie slingback · Yolita mules · Crystal Begum

Archive note

The defining heel design of the last decade, with strong secondary-market demand.

Collectible rating ★★★★★
GR
Est. 2005

Gianvito Rossi

San Mauro Pascoli, Italy

Transparent Plexi panels, minimalist lines

What to collect

Plexi 105 · Muse pumps · Carla mules

Archive note

Pioneered medical-grade clear PVC in luxury footwear — and unmatched comfort.

Collectible rating ★★★★☆
AQ
Est. 2011

Aquazzura

Florence, Italy

Playful lashes, corsetry and tassels

What to collect

Deneuve 105 · Sweet Sinner sandals · Bow Tie pumps

Archive note

Occasion and bridal favourites; retro sandals are actively collected.

Collectible rating ★★★★☆
BV
Est. 1966

Bottega Veneta

Veneto, Italy

Intrecciato weave, quiet luxury

What to collect

Intrecciato slingbacks · Lido sandals

Archive note

Understated and quietly appreciating under recent creative direction.

Collectible rating ★★★★☆
VV
Est. 1960

Valentino Garavani

Rome, Italy

Rockstud hardware, couture finishing

What to collect

Rockstud pumps · VLogo slingbacks · archived couture heels

Archive note

Archival Valentino couture shoes are the serious collector's endgame.

Collectible rating ★★★★☆

Collector's Checklist

Four Rules Before You Buy

01

Keep the box and dust bags

Complete original packaging adds a measurable premium at resale — often 15–25%.

02

Document the purchase

Receipts, authenticity cards and atelier notes make resale and insurance far simpler.

03

Store dark and dry

UV fades satin and metallics; humidity warps leather shanks. Aim for stable conditions.

04

Service before storage

Clean, condition and replace worn tips before a pair rests longer than a season.