October 5, 2023 |
One of the biggest names in luxury footwear, Manolo Blahnik, is celebrating its 50th year by going digital, launching a brand-new virtual room in its online archives entitled The Manolo Blahnik Archives: The Craft. The archives, which were launched in 2021 and have attracted over one million visitors to date, give a wide-ranging insight into the innovation and artistry that has shaped the label’s past.
The new cyberspace will focus specifically on the craftsmanship at the heart of the shoemaking process, providing insights into aspects such as design and manufacturing. Orchestrated by CEO and niece of Manolo, Kristina Blahnik, the virtual navigation nods to its founder’s Spanish heritage, using the brand’s signature polka dot as a backdrop. A mock-up of the designer’s desk sits front and centre, acting as a control panel for users to dive deep into behind-the-scenes glimpses of the history and artisanal techniques used throughout the years. 2023 marks a significant transformation for the initiative, now focusing on eight key areas of Blahnik’s craft – design, construction, typologies, techniques, accessories, materials and making, with an extra spotlight on his menswear designs.
Speaking on the release, Kristina noted: “We hope to educate you on our wonderful and skilled craft of shoemaking and show you firsthand how our dedicated artisans bring Manolo’s iconic collections to life. Craftsmanship really is and always will be at the heart of everything we do.”
Unveiled on October 3, a physical launch is set to take place on October 17, with the label partnering with luxury virtual reality destination Xydrobe to provide guests with a multi-sensory 4D shoemaking experience at their flagship in London’s Mayfair. Running until November, the space will host a variety of exclusive events and public programmes which will be available to book via the Manolo Blahnik website.
Photography courtesy of Manolo Blahnik.
