Kissing Up to Manolo Blahnik, Big Time

The promise of a cozy relationship with Manolo Blahnik — and possibly a free pair of killer shoes here and there — is plenty of incentive to get out there and gush. So it wasn’t a surprise that Rodeo Drive’s Walk of Style Awards last night drew its share of celebs more than happy to pledge allegiance to the man of the hour. “I remember my first time buying a pair, I was in New York and it was like a kid in a candy store,” Lucy Liu cooed while pointing out the crystal-detailed black satin heels she was wearing with her Giambattista Valli dress. “He sent me over a couple of pairs for tonight, but as soon as I put these on, I just knew. They’re amazing, right??”

Blahnik, who was forced to hobble his way down the red carpet due to a torn ligament, seemed bemused by all the fuss around him. Dressed in a pink bowtie, orange velvet slip-ons, and purple striped socks, the designer — who remained glued to Liu’s side most of the night — played Mr. Modesty. “This is all for me?” he asked.

From top: Lucy Liu, Manolo Blahnik and January Jones; Hilary Duff. Photo by Donato Sardella