“You can take my Fendi baguette, you can take my ring and watch, but please don’t take my Manolo Blahnik’s.”
- Carrie Bradshaw
Every year, The British Fashion awards celebrate the most magnificent and undoubtedly iconic in our fashion Mecca. Paying homage to the most exceptional brands and majestic individuals, the awards give tribute to those who have contributed and shaped the British Fashion Industry over the past year. Some awards given are of classic relevance; Designer Of The Year, Menswear Designer Of The Year and Accessory Designer; but also such honours as the New Establishment award- which recognizes a particular movement that is also taking the industry by storm. In total, thirteen mantle-piece worthy titles will be given to the biggest and most talented names in the business. Some of the most time-honoured names, such as: Stella McCartney, Philip Treacy and Christopher Kane- as well as the newer and upcoming influences; Erdem, Meadham Kirchoff and Jonathan Saunders, are all nominated for one of the illustrious accolades.
Perhaps though, the most prestigious award of all is the Outstanding Achievement award; being presented this year to one of the most influential (and one of my favourite) Designer’s of our time- Manolo Blahnik.
After studying Art in Geneva, Blahnik took a trip to New York which would change his life forever. He met the then Editor of American Vogue, Diana Vreeland- who convinced him to focus solely on shoes. This inspired Blahnik to move to London, where the beginning of his exquisite work ultimately began. Blahnik is still to this day completely responsible for the design and prototype of every shoe that bears his renowned name, without an apprentice or assistant in sight. It is because of his craftsmanship and the timeless elegance of his creations that has given him such stature; from Carrie Bradshaw in Sex and the City, opening our eyes to his adorned creations (possibly for the first time for some of us!) To the receiving of the honorary title of Commander Of The British Empire (CBE) in 2007, for his undoubted service to the British Fashion Industry.
Caroline Rush, CEO of The British Fashion Council commented:
“It is with great pleasure that we announce Manolo Blahnik as the recipient of this year’s Outstanding Achievment Award..(Blahnik) has contributed so much, not only to British Fashion but internationally, he has a worldwide cult following and this is true testament to his enduring talent and success.”
Personally, I believe that no one more deserves such an award than Mr. Blahnik. A man of such internationally acclaimed skill, artistry and ornamental aesthetics; which have made his name truly synonymous with divine luxury and style.
..Stay tuned for tomorrow’s winners and updates from the 2012 British Fashion Awards!
