Manolo Blahnik Malaysia debuts in KL
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Women’s shoe retailer Manolo Blahnik Malaysia has launched its first store, in Pavilion KL.
The 95 sqm store is part of an Asia expansion plan that includes the refurbishment of its Singapore store at Takashimaya, as well as the launch of a flagship store in Tokyo next year. The brand is partnering with retailer Bluebell Group on the projects.
Founder Manolo Blahnik, who opened his first shop in Chelsea in London in 1973, was born in the Canary Islands to a Spanish mother and Czech father. He studied languages and art in Geneva before moving to Paris in 1965, where he became a set designer.
On a visit to New York in 1970, he showed his theatre designs to Diana Vreeland, then editor-in-chief of American Vogue, who encouraged him to concentrate on his shoe designs.
Blahnik learnt the art of making shoes by visiting factories, and by 1971 was in London making shoes.
Questions & Answers
Q.What is the size of the new Manolo Blahnik store in Pavilion KL?
What is the size of the new Manolo Blahnik store in Pavilion KL?
The new Manolo Blahnik store in Pavilion KL is 95 square metres. It represents the brand's first retail presence in Malaysia and is part of a wider expansion strategy in Asia.
Q.Which other Asian markets are included in Manolo Blahnik's expansion plans?
Which other Asian markets are included in Manolo Blahnik's expansion plans?
Beyond Malaysia, Manolo Blahnik's Asian expansion plans include refurbishing its Singapore store at Takashimaya. A new flagship store is also set to open in Tokyo next year as part of this regional growth.
Q.Who is Manolo Blahnik partnering with for these new projects?
Who is Manolo Blahnik partnering with for these new projects?
Manolo Blahnik is collaborating with the retailer Bluebell Group on these new ventures. This partnership supports the launch of the Malaysian store and other planned developments across Asia, including the Tokyo flagship.
Q.When and where did Manolo Blahnik open his very first shop?
When and where did Manolo Blahnik open his very first shop?
Manolo Blahnik opened his initial shop in 1973, located in Chelsea, London. This marked the beginning of his independent retail journey after he had started making shoes in London in 1971.
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