MANOLO BLAHNIK: THE EPITOME OF A LADY’S BEST FRIEND

AUTUMN 24 WOMEN’S COLLECTION

Manolo Blahnik pays homage to some of his favorite references for Autumn ’24. Spanish flamenco, classic cinema, surreal arts and a sense of timelessness inform a collection that is eclectic, innovative and characteristically Manolo.

Exquisite craftsmanship, the core of every collection, is highlighted this season with a range of distinct design tropes. Expressive ruffles and hand-pleated collars recall traditional flamenco dancers from Blahnik’s native Spain. Curving mesh cutouts mimic the lines of minimalist mid-century furniture. Contrasting running stitches and pinked edges add to the artisanry on offer. Blahnik never tires of the artistic world – for Autumn ’24 he delved into surrealist art and architecture. Free-flowing shapes in the avant-garde work of Salvador Dalí inspired an organic squared brass buckle. Architectural castellations take the form of graphic contrasting zigzag patterns and scalloped edges on high-impact styles.

Blahnik’s infatuation with classic cinema took hold this season in glimmering ring embellishments inspired by the elegant sensuality of Rita Hayworth in Gilda. Studying depictions of the Empress Joséphine Bonaparte in cinema and portraits, Blahnik created a curved buckle set with sparkling baguette crystals and a delicately curved heel. The standout here is a satin sock boot with ornate Rococo embellishments. The romantic winter costuming in Doctor Zhivago steered focus to tactile elements. Soft suede boots and booties with shearling trims were inspired by Julie Christie’s character in the classic film. Blahnik’s passion for Scottish heritage fabrications takes the spotlight with an edit of traditional Hebridean tweeds and flannels whilst the iconic Maysale family gets a luxurious update in plush jewel-tone velvets.

Renowned for balancing heritage and modernity, Blahnik offers a lean edit of new must-have styles for every wardrobe. Streamlined sandals, flats and pumps punctuated with brass accessories showcase the craftsman’s mastery of metalwork. A new scattered circular lace is equally dramatic and delicate on a pump, slingback and ballerina. Blahnik’s graceful bridal assortment is refreshed in buttercream hues with the season’s exquisite new embellishments and silhouettes.

Once again, Manolo Blahnik strikes the most elegant chord with an offering of need-now and love-forever designs. Autumn ’24 holds creativity and craftsmanship at the forefront with an amalgamation of inspirations behind the innovative fabrications, masterful techniques and extraordinary embellishments.