In creating the Winter '22 collection, Manolo Blahnik explored art, artists and architecture from eras spanning Ancient Egypt to Elizabeth Taylor. Every intricate detail underscored an ongoing commitment to exquisite craftsmanship. Take a deep dive into five of the many inspirations behind this winter collection.

GLORIA

Looking to the eclectic glamour of his formative 1970’s, Blahnik channelled the elegance of disco-era icon Gloria Gaynor. The craftsman’s characteristic sense of joy led to exaggerated crystal buttons on the dazzling Elhob sandal, featured in the Manolo Blahnik Archives.

17TH CENTURY ROYALS

Blahnik was inspired by the magnificent adornments depicted in 17th Century royal portraits in a collection of love-forever styles. The refined elegance of the era was channelled into a pop-red Hangisi with a sparkling tonal buckle, pictured below.

LACE

Blahnik worked with exquisite new fabrics for the Winter 2022 collection including a linear lace – a modern take on the historic craft. The geometric pattern was inspired by the magnificent interiors of Alcazar de Segovia. 

JUNGLE

The Winter 2022 collection saw a new printed snake fabrication, inspired by a Richard Avedon photograph of Nastassja Kinski, intertwined with a boa that was published in Vogue in 1981. The edit of sensuous styles included the classic BB pump pictured below.

THE EYE HEEL

Known for having the most striking eyes in Hollywood, Elizabeth Taylor inspired Manolo to create a daring new heel shape for the Winter 2022 collection. Blahnik created a sculptural wedge in an almond shape mimicing the curve of Taylor’s distinctive dark eyeliner, as expertly applied in the 1974 Italian film, The Driver’s Seat. As seen on the Welli pump, pictured below.