Manolo Blahnik strengthens its expansion in Asia with Bluebell Group

In May 2018, Manolo Blahnik has opened its doors to the public at the triple tower complex Marina Sands Bay in Singapore, strengthening its presence in Asia with Bluebell Group.

“Marina Bay Sands is one of the most recognized places in Singapore. It has been at the forefront of uniquely combining innovative architecture, luxury shopping and leisure, so I am very excited that now Manolo Blahnik will be part of this special concept,” said Kristina Blahnik, the label’s chief executive officer.

The retail space was designed by the architect Nick Leith-Smith, who has signed several collaborations with the brand. For this store, Nick has blended Blahnik’s identity with local architecture, materials and elements of the cultural context. The aim was to create a retail space that could communicate with locals in their own codes. The store incorporates a mix of architectural styles seen around Singapore.

The opening follows a series of activities to expand the brand’s presence in Asia. The partnership with Bluebell Group aims at “optimizing and restructuring” Blahnik’s distribution in the region. Previous retail developments included the opening of two new locations in Tokyo and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The Marina Bay Sands store will be the brand’s only standalone location in Singapore.