Manolo Blahnik Unveils First Stand-Alone Boutique in Milan Amidst Celebrations for Marie Antoinette Exhibition
LONDON – Renowned shoe designer Manolo Blahnik is making headlines this month with the grand opening of his first stand-alone store in Milan, coinciding with a series of events to celebrate the “Marie Antoinette Style” exhibition at the Victoria and Albert Museum, where Blahnik is the sole sponsor.
A New Chapter in Milan
The new boutique, located on Via Pietro Verri in Milan’s prestigious Golden Triangle, spans over 1,000 square feet across two stories. The design of the store pays homage to Blahnik’s late mother, drawing inspiration from the monochromatic aesthetic of her black-and-white tiled kitchen in Spain. This personal touch reflects Blahnik’s deep-rooted connection to his family and heritage, which has significantly influenced his artistic vision.
Incorporating elements inspired by the work of Romanian sculptor Constantin Brâncusi, particularly his iconic “Endless Column,” the boutique features streamlined elegance and geometric shapes that resonate with the designer’s signature heels. This blend of personal history and artistic inspiration creates a unique shopping experience that goes beyond mere retail.
Exclusive Collections Launch
The Milan store is debuting with the summer and fall 2025 collections, showcasing a variety of influences that have shaped Blahnik’s work over the years. From old Hollywood muses to celebrated artists and fashion photographers, the collections reflect a rich tapestry of cultural references. To commemorate the opening, three exclusive styles will be introduced, further enhancing the boutique’s allure.
Every detail within the store has been meticulously curated by Blahnik himself, aiming to create an immersive experience that embodies his passion for craftsmanship, artistry, and storytelling. This commitment to quality is evident in the fact that all Manolo Blahnik shoes are produced in Italy at the Re Marcello factory in Vigevano, which the company acquired in 2019. The acquisition ensured that the skilled artisans who have long been associated with the brand continue to craft its iconic footwear.
Celebrating Marie Antoinette
As the boutique opens its doors, Blahnik is also gearing up for the launch of the “Marie Antoinette Style” exhibition at the Victoria and Albert Museum. This exhibition, which opens later this week, will feature a 12-piece limited-edition capsule collection inspired by the extravagant style of the former Queen of France. Blahnik draws on a variety of historical sources to create shoes that echo the opulence and artistry of Marie Antoinette’s era.
For instance, the Fontanblas style is influenced by a portrait of Marie Antoinette by Swedish artist Adolf Wertmüller, depicting the queen in an Ottoman-inspired robe à la Turque. This historical reference informs the striped design of the shoes, showcasing Blahnik’s ability to blend history with contemporary fashion.
The Montendy style is named after the fortress that Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette aimed to escape to during the French Revolution. This design reflects the queen’s taste in furnishings, with a rosette detail reminiscent of the shoes featured in Sofia Coppola’s 2006 film “Marie Antoinette,” for which Blahnik designed and hand-tufted the footwear.
Another design, Rohan, pays tribute to Marie Antoinette’s famous rose garden, utilizing delicate pastel colors that evoke the rococo style. The powderpuff pink palette also nods to her well-documented use of makeup, while the name references Louis de Rohan, a figure linked to both the court of King Louis XVI and the infamous diamond necklace scandal of 1784-85.
The Raloisette style, characterized by box-pleat detailing and frayed silk-edge fringing, serves as a tribute to Marie Antoinette’s love for fine jewelry, further emphasizing the connection between fashion and history.
Upcoming Events
To celebrate the opening of the exhibition, Blahnik will host a series of events, including a lavish party at Burlington Arcade in London. Additionally, a special Marie Antoinette-themed tea will take place at the Hôtel de Crillon in Paris, a location steeped in history where the queen once took piano lessons when it was still a private residence.
These events not only highlight Blahnik’s dedication to his craft but also his commitment to celebrating the rich history that informs his designs. By intertwining his work with historical narratives, Blahnik continues to elevate the art of shoemaking, making it a form of storytelling that resonates with audiences around the world.
Conclusion
Manolo Blahnik’s new boutique in Milan marks a significant milestone in the designer’s illustrious career, reflecting his deep appreciation for craftsmanship and history. As he prepares to unveil his latest collection inspired by Marie Antoinette, Blahnik reinforces his status as a visionary in the fashion industry. With a blend of personal history, artistic inspiration, and a commitment to quality, Blahnik’s work continues to captivate and inspire, ensuring that his legacy endures for generations to come.
