Christian Louboutin‘s shoes are not merely shoes. Depending on how you look at it, they can be art, or a representation of an orgasm or even a weapon (at least according to the TSA–remember how they tried to confiscate some guy’s studded loafers?)

Ranging from prim and ladylike to downright fetishistic, the Louboutin shoe is undoubtedly a conversation piece. And as shoes in general have become more ridiculously high and ornamented, Louboutin has responded in kind–and then some.

We’ve rounded up 20 of the shoe designer’s most outrageous styles. Wear at your own risk.