Manolo Blahnik, the renowned luxury footwear and accessories brand, has taken a groundbreaking step by granting access to its once secretive archives. Through a new initiative called The Craft Room, the company aims to offer a behind-the-scenes view of the shoe-making craft, celebrating the artistry that goes into creating the iconic Manolo Blahnik men’s and women’s collections.
Thanks to virtual reality technology, viewers can now delve into the intricate anatomy of a shoe and explore a vast collection of content. This immersive experience provides unprecedented insight into the designer’s creative process, his mastery of embellishment, and the key styles that have defined his career. In addition, The Craft Room showcases illustrations from leading publications, adding another layer of depth to the virtual journey.
To mark this exciting unveiling, Manolo Blahnik has joined forces with xydrobe, a luxury virtual reality destination, to create a multi-sensory exhibition at Carlos Place. Visitors have the opportunity to embark on a virtual tour of the Manolo Blahnik factory floor and immerse themselves in the world of the brand through a xydrobe ‘pod’. Originally launched in 2021 to commemorate the label’s 50th anniversary, this award-winning virtual experience has now been expanded and made accessible to a global audience.
The exhibition comprises eight meticulously crafted vignettes that offer in-depth insights into the shoe-making process. Designed by CEO Kristina Blahnik, the virtual space incorporates the brand’s signature polka dot motif as wallpaper, paying tribute to Manolo Blahnik’s Spanish heritage. At the heart of the exhibition lies a replica of the designer’s desk, serving as a guide to the various rooms within the virtual world of Manolo.
Kristina Blahnik, filled with excitement, expresses her delight in showcasing The Craft Room in the virtual archives. This initiative serves as a tribute to her uncle’s illustrious career, which spans over five decades. The creation of this digital space has long been a passion project for her, and she takes pride in adding another room this year, emphasizing the brand’s commitment to craftsmanship. The Craft Room is dedicated to educating and showcasing the skillful craft of shoemaking, offering a glimpse into the remarkable work of the dedicated artisans who bring Manolo Blahnik’s iconic collections to life. Craftsmanship remains at the core of everything the brand represents.
Useful links:
1. Official Manolo Blahnik Website
2. xydrobe Official Website
