The shoes of Manolo Blahnik have been called magical totems of success and femininity (The Guardian) and boast a cult following of devotees the world over. With their sleek elegance and distinctive fashion edge, Manolos are at once fascinating and timeless, their design a beautiful combination of chic, playfulness, and flair. This book explores the creativity and influences of this modern master through an alphabetical chronicle of the designer s loves and inspiration. Blahnik s alphabet gives insight into the art and craftsmanship of shoemaking and includes whimsical musings on his relationships with figures such as Anna Piaggi, Loulou de la Falaise, and Diana Vreeland; the inspiration he draws from works by Goya, Zurbaran, Picasso, Barbara Hepworth, and Zaha Hadid; and his admiration for fellow designers such as Azzedine Alaia, Balenciaga, and Yves Saint Laurent. These highly personal anecdotes drawn from conversations between Blahnik and the author and accompanied by original sketches and new photography offer the reader a rare opportunity to learn the vision behind the shoes as told by a fashion legend. The book which will accompany a traveling global exhibition is introduced by an illustrated essay, which describes the designer s illustrious forty-five-year career in the fashion industry.