Blahnik, Manolo (1942-…), is a Spanish-born fashion designer. Blahnik is known for his imaginative, high-end brand of women’s shoes . His designs feature high stiletto heels inspired by film, his travels, and Spain, his mother’s native country. (A stiletto is a type of thin, high, tapering heel on a woman’s shoe or boot.)
Blahnik was born on Nov. 27, 1942, in Santa Cruz de La Palma, Canary Islands. His father was Czech, and his mother was Spanish. In the 1960’s, he studied literature and other subjects at the University of Geneva in Switzerland. He studied art in Paris before moving to London about 1970. There, he became a theater designer.
During a visit to New York City in 1971, Blahnik met American Vogue editor-in-chief Diana Vreeland . Vreeland noted the footwear in his theater design sketches and suggested that he design shoes instead. Blahnik returned to London that same year and soon designed his first shoe collection for English fashion designer Ossie Clark. Blahnik learned to make shoes by visiting traditional shoe factories and observing shoemakers.
In 1973, Blahnik opened his first shop in the fashionable Chelsea area of London. He designed shoes for runway presentations by such clothing designers as Yves Saint Laurent , Christian Dior , John Galliano, and Michael Kors. Blahnik’s many famous clients included Bianca Jagger; Madonna ; and Diana, Princess of Wales . Blahnik’s name became well known throughout the world of fashion when his shoes were featured in the television series “Sex and the City” (1998-2004).
In 2007, Blahnik was made a Commander of the Order of the British Empire. The award recognizes distinguished service to the arts and sciences, public services, and charitable organizations. Blahnik received the 2012 British Fashion Award for outstanding achievement.
