You’ve probably heard that high heels were actually originally designed for men. In truth, the platformed shoe — that historians aren’t quite sure when it first dates back to — has consistently crossed the boundaries of gender throughout the centuries across the world. But that fact hasn’t undermined the incredibly gendered societal norms of heels. What, or rather who, has been doing that are those ready to express themselves with garments that feel right for them – ignoring any labels, both literal or assumed, placed on a piece and then strutting out into the streets. It’s not a surprise that many of those most famed for dressing beyond the binary are rock stars.
If you’ve ever seen Walt Disco on stage, you will know the queer five-piece goth glam rock band have a distinct style, in that, they all have their own completely unique way of dressing and expressing themselves. What makes Walt Disco unique from the rock stars of the past playing with gender, though, is their eclecticness. From maxi dresses, to three-piece suits, to sometimes even wedding dresses, what unites the bandmates is not a signature colour or motif or accessory but a strong sense of confidence in whatever they’re wearing and a treatment of garments as boundaryless.

“I love having a laugh and playing off the rest of the band because ultimately, if we are having fun then the audience is put at ease and they can enjoy themselves too.” That’s the energy you get from Walt Disco, a sense of freedom, fun and, as a result, the epitome of enviable coolness. And it is this energy they will no doubt bring performing at Christian Louboutin’s AW23 collection presentation and party at Paris Fashion Week this month.
Is there a more famous pair of heels than those with a bottom in that signature shade of sultry red? The storied fashion house has been making strides to bring their beloved and highly coveted heels to all no matter their gender identity or fashion style. To showcase this, Walt Disco were each styled in outfits that represent them as individuals and their expression, and then given a pair of heels from Louboutin’s latest offering that will make its way to stores in July. All with a sharp arrowed point at the front, smart and dressy loafers, either in a 70s two-tone style or a more grungy chain across the front, are paired with bright silk tailoring or floral skirts and animal print jackets. Ankle boots – in white patent latent, black nappa leather and black leather covered in black strass – are paired with leather trousers or velvet undergarment-like leggings. The heels were a natural addition to each of their outfits, adding to the playfulness at the band’s heart whilst going with their own unique brands.
We spoke to the bandmates about how they felt wearing the iconic heels, how they express themselves so individually whilst in a band and what they love about their outfits.

Jack
How do you find ways to uniquely express yourself while performing when you’re part of a band?
I find performing to be very freeing. When you really believe in the songs you’re playing it has a way of bringing something out of you. Our songs, and the feeling of playing them together, makes our confidence manifest in different ways. We all respond to each other in the moment.
How do you use fashion to rebel against societal norms and binaries?
I dress day-to-day how I want to project myself to the world based on how I’m feeling. This might not always align with some people’s tastes, there’s always going to be people who respect a challenge and people who don’t, but dressing how you like despite this and forcing people to see it is how you show you won’t be bullied into submission.

Jocelyn
How would you describe your own personal style in three words?
Glonky, wonky and raunchy.
What impact do you think it has when long-established and classic fashion houses are creating outside of the binary?
I think it is so important, the more inclusive of all body shapes and fluid the fashion industry gets the better. Clothes don’t decide they are gendered, people do.
Can you talk us through what you were wearing during the shoot?
A beautiful silky blue suit with a double breasted jacket and flared trousers, matching pink gloves and socks, and some stunning Louboutin loafers. Very slay.

Lewis
Can you talk us through what you were wearing during the shoot?
Leather jeans, leather waistcoat and black Louboutin boots. I felt like I was channelling Patti Smith circa 1977.
Did you enjoy wearing the Louboutins?
They were the best heels I’ve ever worn.

Finlay
How would you describe your own personal style in three words?
Loud, Loud, Loud.
How has Glasgow impacted your own style?
Its rich musical and cultural history is incredibly inspiring. It’s a decadent, storied and exciting city and I find it really brings out my individualism.
How do you find ways to uniquely express yourself while performing when you’re part of a band?
I find going on stage gives you an almost primal release. It can make you move in a way you may not normally move and give you the freedom to wear whatever you want.

Charlie
How do you feel about performing during Paris Fashion Week?
Playing for Christian Louboutin at Paris Fashion Week is a dream come true. It will be my first time in Paris. I want to make every second last. Somebody pinch me please, thank you.
Can you talk us through what you were wearing during the shoot?
For the shoot I’m feeling my queer biker fantasy. A beautiful studded leather jacket with matching leather trousers, heavy duty chains, huge shades and of course the beautiful white Louboutin heels.
Did you enjoy wearing Louboutins?
I never want to take them off. Catch me walking miles in them.

Credits
Photography Peter Smith
Styling Louis Prier Tisdall
Makeup Siobhan Furlong at Iga Management
Hair Claire Grech at Streeters
Nails Teo Budimir
Art Design Camilla Byles
Models Walt Disco (Jocelyn, Charlie, Jake, Finlay and Lewis)
Photography assistance Olivier Barjolles and Hector Marshall
Digital technician Marsy Hild
DOP Olivier James Newman
Styling assistance Nadia Dahan and Aliesha Vian
Makeup assistance Riley Kate
Hair assistance Charles Stanley and Kirsten Basset
Art assistance Columba Williams
Executive Creative Director Georgina Bacchus
Production Kasia Williams and Amy Wilson
Production assistance Kyara Simone
Retouching Studio RM
All shoes and beauty Christian Louboutin