For The RECORD

Manolo Blahnik, founder of the eponymous footwear brand, on why it is important for him to share the process behind crafting the perfect shoes, from start to finish.

- ZUE WEI LEONG

In 2021, Manolo Blahnik launched a digital archive—The Manolo Blahnik Archives—to celebrate its fiftieth anniversary. It was a resounding success with over a million visitors to date, each one eager to learn more about the iconic luxury footwear brand and its founder.

Catering to that demand is The Craft Room, a virtual experience in the digital archives documenting the artistry and artisans behind the brand’s most iconic designs. After all, Blahnik’s journey began in the early 1970s where he often visited the best Italian shoe factories to speak with artisans and learn everything there is to know about their craft.

Designed by his niece and CEO Kristina Blahnik, the Craft Room comprises eight vignettes that explain each and every component behind the perfect Manolo Blahnik shoe: design, construction, typology, techniques, accessories, material, marking and the different considerations for its men’s collection.

BAZAAR speaks to Manolo Blahnik himself about his experience and purpose behind introducing The Craft Room.

What was the motivation behind The Manolo Blahnik Digital Archives?

It is important to move with the times and with the virtual archives, I wanted a global audience to have the opportunity to enjoy the world we have created. Technology is so wonderful in the way it allows you to connect with the world instantaneously. I love that I can transport into the archives at a click of a button!

How would you describe the process of setting up The Manolo Blahnik Archive alongside Kristina Blahnik?