Commander of the British Empire : Manolo Blahnik

Manolo Blahnik is being made an honorary Commander of the British Empire. The London-based shoe designer has received the award "in recognition of his status as one of the most successful and influential designers of our time", Vogue UK reports

Culture Secretary James Purnell, who presented the honor, commented: "Manolo Blahnik is one of only a handful of designers whose name is synonymous with their product. His avant garde designs mixed with timeless classics ensure that women all over the world are desperate to get their hands on a pair of Manolos. By basing his business in London, Mr Blahnik has played a huge part in enhancing the reputation of the capital as a leading fashion industry centre."

Manolo says. "It is the greatest privilege to have been appointed by Her Majesty the Queen to receive such an honour for my small contribution to the fashion industry in Britain," the modest designer said. "I'll always be proud and grateful for it." Betty Jackson and milliner Philip Treacy are among the other fashion-world power players to be honoured.