Manolo Blahnik

Manolo Blahnik grew up on a banana plantation on La Palma, studied in Geneva and Paris and, by a roundabout route, ended up in London. In 1973 he took over the Zapata boutique on Old Church Street in Chelsea — to this day the address of the house.

What distinguishes his shoes happens at the very beginning: Blahnik draws every model himself and carves the lasts and heels by hand before they go to Italian workshops. Hence the reputation that his shoes can actually be worn — despite heel heights that might suggest otherwise.

Individual models have long since become terms in their own right: the Hangisi with its jewelled buckle in blue satin, the BB as a pure pump, alongside sandals and slingbacks that have returned for decades without ever looking of-the-moment. The company remains family-owned.

At APROPOS we carry a curated selection of women’s models. Our teams are happy to advise you on fit and lasts — in person in the store or, if you prefer, via our WhatsApp channel.