The Sketches

2018

The stone carvings of artist Barbara Hepworth provide a source of inspiration for Manolo’s geometry and monochrome prints. Amidst a progressive generation of sculptors in the 1930s, Hepworth's move towards the abstract was inspirited by the sea and landscape of Cornwall.

2018

Manolo is renowned for his obsession with embellishments. Scouring all corners of the world he harvests stones and pearls to create dramatic clusters of jewels. Like crowns, the delicate wreaths adorn the luxurious fabrics of his favourite silhouettes.

2018

Manolo recognised the indispensable silhouette of the ankle boot, which has become an integral piece in one's wardrobe. True to his playful juxtapositions he embraces classic shapes with the characteristic clashing of colours and textures.

2018

Manolo is mesmerised by ancient myths and legends. The laser-cut patterns in this collection are inspired by the amulet believed to ward off the curse of the ‘evil eye’: an unknowing, malevolent glare resulting in injury or bad lack. Also known as 'il malocchio' the totem itself is a solitary eye, worn in many cultures as a charm to repel any evil afflictions.

2018

Marble, mosaics and motifs, the elements of Sicilian baroque architecture, provide an enduring force behind Manolo's imagination. The bronzed, statuesque decorations are translated to the ornamental embellishments in this collection.

2003

Translating to 'Fans of Seville', Manolo designed Abanico de Sevilla in dedication to Andalusia, the land of flamenco, passion and dance. Inextricably linked with his Spanish roots, these pleated silk fans playfully dance with each movement.

2018

Manolo adores Sicily and the island's distinctive baroque architecture. The intricate and theatrical facades make an emotional impact…its marvellous eccentricity is a point of enduring fascination for Manolo.

2009

Growing up on an island close to the sea ingrained in Manolo the honest beauty of ecology and horticulture. Surrounded by the ocean, the underwater forests of sea algae took effect on his imagination, its characteristic tendrils forming the straps of this sandal.

2003

The bold, confident silhouette of The Net is inspired by the couture collections of Jean Paul Gaultier and his use of the female form as an icon of empowerment.

2016

Kazimir Malevich, a Polish Russian precursor of abstract art who explored geometric forms, inspired Manolo's clashing of bright shades and shapes. The cubist movement had a strong affect on Manolo who translated this into the bold graphics that completed this Autumn collection.

2007

The history of different cultures and ethnic traditions, particularly the ways in which people dressed, is always a point of reference when creating his collections. Manolo is fascinated by the raw, savage embellishments used in ancient footwear and its underlying element of utility.

2018

Africa and its many tribes provide a constant source of inspiration for Manolo. Adorned upon a contemporary canvas of zebra print, the beads that inspire this buckle have great cultural significance with each colour having a special meaning.

2018

Fascinated by the traditional dress of different African tribes, Manolo emulates the primary-coloured collars that are integral and symbolic of their culture.

2005

A playful, contemporary interpretation of the ancient tribes in Africa. Manolo clashes colours and textures to bring one of his favourite silhouettes to life: a low-heeled mule brimming with vivacity.

2018

With his imagination travelling far and wide, the Summer 2018 collection was inspired by Africa and the deeply rooted traditions of its many tribes. Naturally, what ensues is Manolo's contemporary take on the nomadic cultures that date back thousands of years.

2015

Nuzianta is inspired by the ruffles adorning the Queen Consort of Spain, Maria Luisa de Parma, in her portrait by Anton Raphael Mengs. The 18th century painting hangs in the Prado museum which is a constant source of inspiration for Manolo.

2012

Forever inspired by nature, it was the wide leaves and tall spire of flowers from the Acanthus plant that stirred in Manolo to create this silhouette. The balled heel stems from his adoration of Andre Perugia, Manolo's favourite shoe designer, who created avante garde footwear in the early 1900's.

2009

Manolo's love of England is the spark behind many of his designs. This silhouette is born from his adoration of the Victorian era, especially the elegant ruffles that adorn the dresses of the age.

2015

The work of Dutch artist Piet Mondrian impressed upon Manolo the abstract use of line and primary colours. He brings to life Mondrian's pairings of asymmetry and balance through his graphic and geometric structures.

2018

Fascinated by the allure of enchanting women, Manolo looks to iconic photographs of Jean Shrimpton by David Bailey in the 60's. The shoes are so perfectly characteristic of the era which also coincides with Manolo's arrival to London and ensuing adoration of the city. The photographs inspired Manolo to create a series of styles that would be perfectly suited for Shrimpton today.