Influential NYC Blogger of the Day: Manolo's Shoe Blog
0We’ve come to an end with our “Influential NYC Blogger of the Day” mini-series. For the last installation, today we’re featuring The Manolo, a mysterious, yet very successful anonymous blogger who talks sole-ly about footwear on his blog, “Manolo’s Shoe Blog”. For a complete roundup of our other favorite New York bloggers check out our past features on The Sartorialist, Bryanboy, Man Repeller and Advanced Style.
No, creator of the blog, “Manolo’s Shoe Blog”, is not the famed Manolo Blahnik, nor is the beloved cobbler a contributor to the 9-year-old website. The blog, often referred to as the world’s “first fashion blog,” was actually founded by an anonymous New Yorker with an affinity for footwear. He just goes by the pseudonym “The Manolo”. It’s an apt name for such a blog, that’s for sure.
The website — which features a quirky writing style and always refers to the blogger in the third person: “The Manolo” — talks almost exclusively about shoes and fashion.
A sample straight from The Manolo’s keyboard: “…The Manolo discovered long ago, one of the easiest ways to boost one’s self-confidence is by wearing beautiful, well-made shoes. With the truly super-fantastic shoes, one is able to stand taller, walk straighter and project the image of confidence and vitality that are the key ingredients of the sexy appeal. By the comparison, ugly and poorly made shoes bring the wearer down, causing one to lumpily schlump around like the water buffalo. Put on the pair of cheap plastic clogs, and you are saying to the world, “I love sweatpants and Doritos, and long romantic rides on my mobility scooter.” Hardly the message one wishes to convey to the wider world, much less the potential mate.”
Funny, no?
Anyhow, when Manolo’s Shoeblog was launched in 2004, its founder wasn’t quite sure what would come of his/her efforts. What happened, though, was that Manolo’s Shoe Blog became an Internet sensation. In fact, it was rumored to have earned $700,000 per year within two years of its debut.
Where is “The Manolo” today?
Manolo’s Shoe Blog is still going strong with consistent updates. The Manolo also writes a weekly column for The Express, a Washington Post publication. There, The Manolo gives shoe advice and recommendations to readers and question-askers.
Why is this blogger successful?
We’re going to hazard a guess here and say The Manolo is beloved and successful for several reasons. First, he has a very unique, endearing writing voice that sort of sucks you in and makes you want to read, read, read.
Secondly, the air of mystery about The Manolo is intriguing. He sort of has a “Gossip Girl” effect where you just accept that this person exists, but you really haven’t a clue about who he is.
Thirdly, The Manolo has made a career out of talking about shoes specifically and he’s been doing it for years. There’s no question as to whether or not The Manolo knows his stuff.
What’s your thought on The Manolo? Does his writing style drive you batty, or do you find it captivating?
Loading ...By Wendy Rose Gould
Daily Sales Email, or Subscribed to our RSS Feed? Don't miss a Sale!
Posted by Wendy Rose Gould at 02:00 PM
Opinions , People |
Know something we don't? Email us
at [email protected]
