Guests gathered at the designer’s new California boutique amid stilettos, pumps, and more
Words by ELIZABETH VARNELL
Photography by LAUREN SCOTT
C Magazine founder Jennifer Smith and a host of guests toasted the opening of the West Coast’s first Manolo Blahnik boutique in Costa Mesa on Thursday, January 8. Inside the new South Coast Plaza space — devoted to the London-based company’s wide array of designs favored by film stars, members of royal families, and editors alike — were shoes from the latest Winter collection alongside classic silhouettes and more avant-garde looks.
The space itself included a geometric facade designed by Nick Leith-Smith Architecture + Design, complete with circular motifs and vitrines for standout styles. The monochromatic color scheme evoked Josef Hoffmann, one of Blahnik’s favorite artists. Wall slats throughout with floating shelves held footwear and bags as those on hand admired the women’s mules, flats, and sandals as well as loafers, brogues, and boots for men.
With glasses of champagne in hand, those assembled got a look at shoes inspired by Serengeti landscapes; the photography of Irving Penn, including his celebrated portraits of model Gina Ginetta; and all the other influences the 84-year-old designer drew upon to dream up his latest looks. Also on view was a to-scale replica of Blahnik’s workstation, including the art supplies he uses to pen the lush sketches he produces each season. After a morning of shopping, guests were seated at Knife Pleat, helmed by chef Tony Esnault, for a celebratory lunch.
January 22, 2026
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