Every true fashionista would know the name Manolo Blahnik, and we have our favorite fictional shoe connoisseur, Carrie Bradshaw, to thank for that. But even before the Sex and the City's main character raved about her Manolos on screen, turning the brand into a pop culture symbol, the designer shoes were already being worn by fashion icons and celebrities such as Twiggy, Anjelica Huston, Bianca Jagger, and Princess Diana.
Today, Manolo Blahnik remains to be one of the most sought-after shoe brands. But how exactly did it come to be? From designing miniature shoes out of candy wrappers for lizards (no kidding) to landing a spot in women’s closets all around the globe, ahead, discover the history of the brand, its most iconic pop culture moments, and must-have pieces.
Who is Manolo Blahnik?
Born in 1942 on the sunny Canary Islands, Manolo Blahnik's journey into the world of footwear began in an unexpected way. As a kid, he used to create tiny boots out of sweet wrappers for the lizards in his neighborhood—his earliest brush with fashion, perhaps!
But before fully dipping his feet into the world of shoe design, Manolo studied international law, interning at the United Nations. He even tried his hand at set design and then tested the waters as a photographer for The Sunday Times.
The turning point occurred during a chance meeting with Diana Vreeland, the director of the Met Costume Institute, in Paris. Impressed by his sketches, she nudged him towards a career in shoe design. In 1971, Manolo unveiled his first-ever shoe collection for Ossie Clark, introducing sleek stiletto shapes that defied the chunky platforms dominating the era. His designs were a game-changer, gaining popularity among celebrities.
However, it wasn't until the '90s that Sarah Jessica Parker's Manolo-obsessed Sex and the City character, Carrie Bradshaw, catapulted the brand into the realm of pop culture, further solidifying his place in the fashion world.
Manolo Blahnik's Most Iconic Pop Culture Moments
1. Sex and the City
Coming up at number one–there were tons of times when Manolos were spotted and mentioned in Sex and the City, but these two moments are the most unforgettable: In season three episode 17 Carrie gets mugged and begs the gunman, “Please sir, you can take my Fendi baguette, you can take my ring and watch, but you can’t take my Manolo Blahniks!” Spoiler alert: She still lost her Manolos. Then in the Sex and The City movie, Mr. Big proposes to Carrie a second time with a blue satin Hangisi pump turning it into one of the most recognizable pairs of shoes in the fashion world.
2. Sofia Coppola’s Marie Antoinette Shoe Wardrobe
Sofia Coppola has brought us many beloved films, and her 2006 movie Marie Antoinette definitely takes the cake (pun intended), not only for its story but also for how beautifully the entire film was executed, with costume design playing a huge role. For this film, Sofia specifically sought out Manolo Blahnik to create historically accurate yet stylish footwear for Kirsten Dunst, who portrayed the last Queen of France in the movie.
3. Princess Diana’s Revenge Dress
We’re all familiar with Princess Diana’s “revenge dress”—the jaw-dropping LBD she wore the day Prince Charles confessed to his adultery with Camilla. Her choice of shoes to complete this history-making outfit? A pair of classic black Manolo Blahnik pumps.
4. Twilight Wedding
In one of the most unforgettable wedding scenes on screen, Bella, portrayed by Kristen Stewart, rocked a pair of stunning white Manolo Blahnik “Swan” pumps on her big day. Here's Alice trying to teach Bella how to walk in them.
5. Kate Moss’ Wedding
Manolo Blahnik is a clear go-to brand for weddings (real or fictional). Even the iconic Kate Moss opted for custom-made Manolos when she tied the knot to Jamie Hince in 2011.
SHOP: Must-Have Manolo Blahnik Heels
Hangisi
In 2008, Manolo Blahnik introduced the now-iconic satin Hangisi pump featuring a distinctive square crystal buckle sourced from Italy. Drawing inspiration from historical figures such as Napoleon I, Josephine, and Pauline Bonaparte, he crafted a timeless silhouette. Since its inception, the Hangisi pump has been reimagined in an array of colors and materials, each adorned with dazzling crystal buckles.
Hangisi 90 Blue Satin Jewel Buckle Pumps, P68,900, MANOLO BLAHNIK, manoloblahnik.com
Maysale
In 1991, the Maysale shoe made its debut as part of Isaac Mizrahi's runway collection. When Mizrahi sought a design featuring a pilgrim buckle, Manolo Blahnik rose to the challenge, presenting not only the ideal silhouette but also creating one of his most enduring and iconic styles.
Maysale Beige Suede Kitten Heel Mules, P43,400, MANOLO BLAHNIK, manoloblahnik.com
BB
The iconic BB, crafted initially in plush suede in 2008, continues to be reimagined each season without fail. This renowned pointed-toe pump pays homage to the timeless elegance of none other than Brigitte Bardot.
BB Black Calf Leather Pointed Toe Pumps, P43,400, MANOLO BLAHNIK, manoloblahnik.com
Campari
You know those Manolo mary janes that Carrie Bradshaw thought were an urban shoe myth? Well, they aren’t such a myth after all. The shoe was created in 1994 but became quite rare to come by. These days, you can find it on the brand’s website retailing around P47,000.
Camparinew Black Patent Leather Pointed Toe Pumps, P47,100, MANOLO BLAHNIK, manoloblahnik.com
Lurum
Lurum stands as a timeless almond-toe mule, featuring a stiletto heel and adorned with a front strap embellished with intricate crystals. Whether in plush velvet or sumptuous satin, these opulent satin mules invite exploration. Ideal for the festive season or as a lavish gift, these mules, complete with jewel-encrusted buckles, exude luxury.
Lurum Off-White Satin Crystal Embellished Mules, P78,400, MANOLO BLAHNIK, manoloblahnik.com
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