Simply Abu Dhabi XXVIII

8 0 S I M P LY A B U DH A B I D uring the celebration of Manolo Blahnik: he Art of Shoes exhibition, organised by Vogue Spain in Madrid, Bulgari and the Spanish fashion designer and creator of the eponymous high-end shoe brand presented an exclusive and strikingly opulent pair of shoes. The attention-demanding result of their collaboration is a magnificent pair of green silk satin shoes with ultra-precious ankle straps, counting more than 11 carats of diamonds, 48 carats of rubellites and 38 carats of amethysts. The decoration takes inspiration fromPepperoncini – a typical Italian symbol that stands for chilli peppers and a leitmotif of this year’s Festa high jewellery collection. “To co-design these unique pieces together with the legendManolo Blahnik was the realisation of a personal dream – I am just addicted to his shoes! We both believe that creativity is there to serve women and make them feel amazing. There is no reason to wear high heels only on a catwalk or to lock a high jewellery necklace in a safe forever… Beauty should be worn and enjoyed, always,” declares Lucia Silvestri, Bulgari Jewellery’s artistic director. Silvestri continues, “Colours, creativity, daring femininity, unexpected materials, excellent craftsmanship, attention to details… Manolo Blahnik and Bulgari have a perfectly shared view in the matters of luxury creations. Whilst designing this bejewelled shoe, I had the perfect counterpart in front of me. The green silk satin reminded me of the colours of peridots and I just needed to find the right gemstone combination.” Blahnik said of the notable partnership, “It has been an honour to work with such an iconic brand with a wonderful Italian heritage. We both share the same vision and creativity to produce beautiful things for beautiful women. I adored the accessory which was used, totally divine and it perfectly complimented the zesty green satin.” BULGARI AND MANOLO BLAHNIK COLLABRATE FOR A HIGH JEWELLERY SHOE b y I v a n A l l e g r a n t i