Ep 1. Manolo: The Boy Who Made Shoes for Lizards

Manolo: The Boy Who Made Shoes for Lizards is a one-of-a-kind documentary series that tells the story of Manolo Blahnik, a well-established fashion designer who went from being a young Spanish boy with a vivid imagination to one of the most renowned shoe designers in the world. In season 1 episode 1, we take a look at the early life of Manolo and how he developed an unusual passion for creating shoes for lizards.

The episode begins by introducing us to Manolo's childhood in Santa Cruz de la Palma, a small island in the Canary Islands. From a very young age, Manolo had a fascination with shoes and would often spend hours sketching intricate designs. However, what sets him apart from other shoe designers is that he also had a love for lizards. He would often catch them and observe their movements, studying their feet and how they walked. Eventually, he began designing shoes for his lizards using any materials he could find, such as dyed fish scales or his mother's old curtains.

As Manolo grew older, his passion for shoes only intensified. He moved to Paris in his early 20s to study art and literature. It was there that he was first exposed to high fashion and developed a fascination for the works of designers like Christian Dior and Hubert de Givenchy. However, despite his love for fashion, Manolo always felt drawn to shoes, seeing them as an art form in themselves.

After completing his studies in Paris, Manolo moved to London to pursue a career in fashion. The city was a hub for creativity in the 1960s, and Manolo quickly became a part of the scene. He worked as a buyer for a boutique store and designed shoes for other designers on the side. However, his big break came in the form of a chance encounter with Vogue editor Diana Vreeland. She fell in love with his designs and featured them in the magazine, launching his career.

From there, Manolo's career took off. He created shoes for some of the biggest names in fashion, including Yves Saint Laurent and Calvin Klein. However, despite his success, Manolo never forgot his roots. He continued to design shoes for himself, taking inspiration from his childhood and his love for lizards. His designs were often whimsical and unusual, featuring intricate details and unexpected materials.

Throughout the episode, we see Manolo at work in his studio, creating new designs and sketching ideas. He talks about his inspirations and the creative process, as well as his desire to make beautiful shoes that are also comfortable to wear. We also hear from some of his famous clients, including Anna Wintour and Rihanna, who speak to his talent and dedication.

Overall, Manolo: The Boy Who Made Shoes for Lizards season 1 episode 1 is a fascinating look at the life and career of one of the most innovative shoe designers of our time. It showcases the power of creativity and imagination, as well as the importance of staying true to oneself. Whether you're a fan of fashion or simply appreciate beautiful design, this episode is a must-watch.