Luxury fashion takes a refined turn as Manolo Blahnik announces a collaboration with Balenciaga, bringing together two iconic houses united by shared Spanish heritage and an uncompromising devotion to craftsmanship. This exclusive partnership highlights the elegance, artistry, and cultural roots that define both brands, while reinterpreting them for a modern audience.
Honouring Cristóbal Balenciaga’s Enduring Legacy
For Balenciaga’s Autumn/Winter 2026 collection, legendary shoe designer Manolo Blahnik worked closely with Balenciaga creative director Pierpaolo Piccioli to design three distinctive footwear styles. Each piece pays tribute to Cristóbal Balenciaga, the house’s founding couturier, whose influence continues to shape contemporary fashion.
The collaboration reflects a deep respect for Balenciaga’s heritage, while also embracing Piccioli’s refined vision of femininity and modern elegance.
Archive-Inspired Designs with a Modern Sensibility
The creative process began with Piccioli selecting key designs from the Manolo Blahnik archives, which were then reimagined and blended into a cohesive collection. The result is a trio of styles that includes a low-heeled mule and a slingback silhouette, available with either a striking 105mm heel or a more understated 50mm option.
A signature décolleté cut reveals the skin with subtle sensuality, aligning seamlessly with Piccioli’s aesthetic direction at Balenciaga and offering a fresh interpretation of classic forms.
Jewel-Like Details and Luxurious Materials
Crafted entirely from silk satin, the shoes are presented in a refined colour palette that includes classic black and rich emerald green, finished with Balenciaga’s signature grey lining. Crystal embroidery adorns the low-cut vamp of each design, echoing Manolo Blahnik’s renowned approach to creating footwear that resembles fine jewellery.
These embellishments also reference Cristóbal Balenciaga’s 1960s bijoux creations, bridging past and present through meticulous detail and artisanal excellence.
A Personal and Creative Milestone
Reflecting on the partnership, Manolo Blahnik shared his admiration for the Balenciaga founder, describing Cristóbal Balenciaga as his ultimate design inspiration. He expressed a lifelong connection to Balenciaga’s Spanish sensibility and called the collaboration a dream fulfilled.
Blahnik also praised Pierpaolo Piccioli’s vision, noting that it aligns closely with his own perspective on how women will dress in 2026—defined by timeless style, craftsmanship, and enduring beauty.
Heritage as a Platform for Innovation
Kristina Blahnik, Chief Executive of Manolo Blahnik, emphasized the emotional and creative significance of the collaboration. She highlighted how the dialogue between the two houses showcases the artistry of shoemaking and demonstrates how heritage can inspire innovation without losing its soul.
A Legacy of Creative Partnerships
This collaboration adds to Manolo Blahnik’s history of high-profile partnerships, following successful ventures with Birkenstock and global icon Rihanna. With Manolo Blahnik announcing a collaboration with Balenciaga, the brand further cements its position at the intersection of heritage, luxury, and forward-thinking design.
