MANOLO BLAHNIK OPENS THE DOORS OF ITS FIRST PARISIAN BOUTIQUE THIS MONDAY, JULY 1, 2019
It’s a time for excitement as Manolo Blahnik announces the expansion of its boutique network. The house opened the doors of its first Parisian address today, opening its twentieth directly-operated boutique.
The boutique is located in the iconic Palais-Royal, a place brimming with culture and history, making it the ideal setting for the designer’s luxurious shoes. Paris beats in the heart of Manolo Blahnik, who lived there for several years after studying in Geneva and before his final move to London. For him, Paris is the capital of fashion, the place where he began his career, where he forged invaluable ties with the greatest names and forged friendships that endure to this day.
To this day, Manolo Blahnik looks back on his years in Paris with deep affection. His unforgettable memories include obsessive walks under the arches of the Palais-Royal, hours spent at the cinematheque, daily visits to Angelina’s and, of course, the most chic parties in Paris in the 60s. Paris is a city so poignant, so instrumental to Manolo Blahnik’s genesis, that he claims he has “never left” it. This opening represents a significant moment for both the man and the House.
Overlooking the Passage Montpensier and the Palais-Royal gardens, the boutique was previously known as Café Corrazza, founded in 1787 and frequented by Robespierre, Barat and Bonaparte – a place befitting Manolo Blahnik and his soft spot for the 18th century. The boutique, designed by Mr. Blahnik himself, has the relaxed atmosphere of a salon sprinkled with English references, creating a magnificent home for Mr. Blahnik’s elegant creations. In neutral tones, the interior is signed with Manolo Blahnik’s iconic pale gray, and complimented by the deep greens of the sofas and ivory wool rugs. No fewer than 100 Georgian candlesticks will be applied from floor to ceiling to serve as shoe displays. The second floor is decorated in richer tones: mahogany panels will be affixed to the walls, and polished brass displays will house the shoes. A dark oak parquet floor, a brown wool carpet and a pair of Hoffmann armchairs complete the decor.
The boutique is home to the famous pumps that have made the Maison so successful, and for which Mr. Blahnik’s loyal clientele return season after season. For the first time in France, a new men’s range is available on the first floor of this showcase. The recent launch of the men’s collection, presented in London in 2018 and then in the United States and Japan earlier this year, makes France the fourth market to offer these models.
Manolo Blahnik says:
“Paris is the most fabulous city in the world, especially for its architecture – the French have always been clever enough not to destroy historic buildings. Paris is untouched, pure, and I’ve always wanted to have a boutique there, but it had to be in the Palais-Royal. It’s one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen, and I love it – perfect proportions, kneaded by history.”
Kristina Blahnik, CEO, says:
“One of our many missions is not only to protect Manolo Blahnik’s legacy but also to help it evolve. Paris is an invaluable part of Manolo Blahnik’s life, and I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to share this love story and have a presence in this wonderful city.”
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