Manolo Blahnik

With a career spanning over 45 years, Manolo Blahnik has become one of the world’s most influential shoe designers. His shoes have spellbound an international set of adoring and loyal devotees across the globe. Known as the subject of Michael Roberts’ in depth biopic, Manolo: The Boy Who Made Shoes for Lizards (2017), for his on-screen contribution to: Diana Vreeland: The Eye Has to Travel (2011) and also for his renowned footwear designs alongside the Academy Award winning costumes of Milena Canonero in Sofia Coppola’s: Marie Antoinette (2005) Born in the Canary Islands to a Spanish mother and a Czech father, Blahnik studied languages and art in Geneva before moving to Paris in 1965 where he decided to become a set designer. On a visit to New York in 1969, he showed his theatre designs to Diana Vreeland, the ex-editor-in-chief of American Vogue, who honed in on his shoes and encouraged him to concentrate on them. It was by visiting factories and talking to machine operators, pattern cutters and technicians that Blahnik learnt the art of making shoes. In 1970 he opened his first boutique in London’s Chelsea, in 1972 Ossie Clark, then the most famous designer in London, used his shoes and from there his career blossomed. Blahnik is a craftsman. The exquisitely shaped lasts and heels he creates for his shoes are still perfected with his very own hands. The lines and silhouette of his distinctive designs, remain instantly recognisable as unique, inimitable exercises in precision and balance, exquisite workmanship and luxury. “Shoes,” he says, “help transform a woman.” From the flagship store in London, the brand has expanded worldwide. The United States has recognised Manolo Blahnik’s exuberant brilliance over the years, with the CFDA honouring his talent with awards in 1987, 199 and 1998. The British Fashion Council presented awards in 1990, 1999 and 2003, whilst his native Spain has presented him with La Aguja de Oro (2001) and La Medalla de Oro en Merito en las Bellas Artes, awarded by His Majesty Don Juan Carlos I, King of Spain. Other awards include: Honorary Commander of the British Empire (CBE) – November 2007 Rodeo Drive Walk of Style Award – September 2008 Footwear News Lifetime Achievement Award – November 2011 British Fashion Council Outstanding Achievement Award -2012 Premio Nacional de Diseño de Moda in Spain – 2012