May 2010
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Manolo Blahnik on why London is his favourite city for fashion, books, art...
Fashion designer Manolo Blahnik
Michael Roberts
Why is London so cool? It is a hotbed of ideas and it’s different to any other place in the world. It’s a special city.
What is your favourite shopping street? I love the unique shops in Chelsea.
Which shops do you rely on? Green & Stone for art supplies, Penhaligon’s for grooming products, Osborne & Little for wallpaper and fabrics, Anderson & Sheppard for bespoke suits and the John Sandoe store for books.
What gives Londoners such good style? They have no fear and are very experimental. They are my inspiration.
What do you miss about London when you’re away? There is a huge variety of cultures — not least the wonderful museums and galleries — so nothing is shocking. When I am away I miss the eclectism of it.
What is your best memory of London? I have very fond memories of tea parties at friends’ houses in Chelsea – at Paloma Picasso’s, the actress Lady Reed’s and at Bianca Jagger’s. Such fun.
Fashion designer Manolo Blahnik (manoloblahnik.com) is a judge for the inaugural Dorchester Collection Fashion Prize.
