The power of an ICONIC shoe should never be underestimated; just ask Carrie Bradshaw. Her blue Manolo pumps were a pivotal character in her engagement in the memorable Sex and the City: The Movie scene in 2008, and after all these years, they’re still a staple in her closet. While we know Carrie Bradshaw and her Manolo story is a work of fiction, the impact of her wearing them is anything but. Despite designing shoes since the early 1970s, Manolo Blahnik saw immense success after Sex and the City and women everywhere were, and still are, dying to walk a mile in Carrie Bradshaw’s shoes. The Duchess of Cambridge even sported the ICONIC Manolo Hangisi pumps for her official royal portrait.
But where did the actual inspiration for the classic shoe come from?
In 2008, Blahnik first designed the ICONIC Hangisi pump with the now signature adornment, a square crystal buckle he found in Italy, which is where all of his designs are manufactured. This original design was inspired by Napoleon I, Josephine and Pauline Bonaparte, and has proven to be timeless as it continues to transform while maintaining its true essence.
"I always had a fondness for brilliant accessories, so we created a series of styles with this beautiful embellished buckle, which I found in Italy. The whole shoe was inspired by Napoleon I, Josephine and Pauline Bonaparte." - Manolo Blahnik
Reimagined for summer, the Hangisi Pearl is one of the newest renditions of the classic. The Hangisi buckle, covered with luminous pearl and encased in a golden frame, effortlessly complements the white lace. From stiletto to almond toe, the Hangisi Pearl encompasses all that a Manolo should be.
If you find yourself wanting to have your own Hollywood moment, the Hangisi Pearl is now available and also comes in an additional color, dark grey.
Like Carrie Bradshaw would say—Invest in the shoes.
