How The Belle Époque Inspired Manolo Blahnik

When it comes to the greatest cobblers of our time, let’s just say there’s no denying that Spanish designer Manolo Blahnik has proven himself time and time again. The decades since he set up shop in London in 1969 have seen Blahnik’s soles on A-listers and supermodels alike. And it’s no wonder why, with eclectic designs pulling from people, places, and eras for inspiration.

Well, the master shoemaker’s latest collection, ‘A Splendid Blahnik’, looks to the inimitable style of the Belle Époque. Defined by artists of the time like Claude Monet, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, and Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, the era of artistic liberty was showcased in paintings of vibrant colour palettes and loose brushwork that captured the dynamism of society.

‘I wanted to create a shoe using the most interesting materials and techniques,’ Blahnik tells SHOWstudio exclusively. ‘This is an era that I adore and one that continually find inspiration from. The silhouettes, the colours, the opulence... Divine!’

This fusion of contrasting elements encapsulates the essence of Belle Époque aesthetics - a harmonious blend of sophistication and whimsy. The 'Sene' boot exemplifies the era's penchant for opulent materials and bold colour combinations, while the addition of pom poms adds a touch of irreverence and fun. With the black satin creating a negative space effect, the floating tassels add a whimsical quality, perfectly capturing the spirit of an era defined by its celebration of beauty and creativity.