Manolo Blahnik

Early Life 450-600

Manolo Blahnik was born November 27^th 1942 in Santa Cruz de La Palma. As a child Blahnik lived on a banana plantation that his mother and father owned. After getting a degree in architecture and literature from the University of Geneva Blahnik began working as a photographer in Paris. It was at this point that his eye for fashion evolved. He was told by the editor in chief of Vogue Diana Vreeland that he had a true talent for shoe design. At first Manolo designed men’s foot wear but found that there was to many limitations.  His first line of shoes was showcase in a runway show held by Ossie Clark. With great success he opened his first boutique in Chelsea London in 1973 buying out Zappa.With over a thirty-year career Monolo Blahnik has single handedly become one of the most influential footwear designers of our time. His she’s are worn by some of the most influential people in the world including royalty. With thousands of shoes, his fashions are now worldwide with out the help of assistants. Most impressive Blahnik has no formal training in shoe making but he is responsible for every shoe in his line. Manolo Blahnik shoes come with a price tag from $500 to $2500. The signature shoes often have stiletto heels that can reach as high as five and a half inches. They are tastefully embellished with heavy beading ribbon and tassels. He has said that his inspiration for his shoe design. “Shoes” he says, “ Help transform a woman”.Manolo Blahnik is not only a great shoe designer he has also found his way into pop culture. He was often mentioned in the hit television show Sex and the City. Madonna once said that Manolo Blahnik shoes are “better then sex”. Marge Simpson from the television show the Simpson’s wore a pair or Manolo’s in a 1991 episode. In 1999 the British Council named Manolo Blahnik accessory designer of the Year. He also has doctorates from Royal London College of Art and the Royal Society of Arts of Britain. With two books Manolo Blahnik Drawings and a self titled book the sky is the limit.