Meaning: This quote by renowned shoe designer Manolo Blahnik provides insight into his creative process and the diversity of his design portfolio. Blahnik's statement reflects the balance he maintains between imaginative, avant-garde designs and more practical, commercially viable creations.

In the first part of the quote, Blahnik mentions that about half of his designs are "controlled fantasy." This suggests that a significant portion of his work is characterized by a balance of creativity and practicality. Controlled fantasy implies that while his designs may be whimsical and imaginative, they are also carefully crafted and restrained, ensuring that they remain wearable and marketable. This combination of creativity and practicality is a hallmark of Blahnik's work and has contributed to his success in the fashion industry.

The next part of the quote indicates that 15 percent of his designs are "total madness." This reveals that Blahnik is not afraid to push the boundaries of conventional design and embrace unconventional, daring concepts. These "mad" designs may be experimental, bold, and unconventional, serving as a testament to his fearless creativity and willingness to take risks. This willingness to explore the extreme edges of design is what sets Blahnik apart as a visionary in the fashion world.

Finally, Blahnik describes the remaining designs as "bread-and-butter designs." This term refers to the reliable, staple designs that form the foundation of his business. These designs are likely more classic, timeless, and commercially viable, appealing to a broad customer base. They provide a steady source of income and stability for his brand, ensuring that he can continue to pursue more experimental and avant-garde designs.

Manolo Blahnik's approach to design, as revealed in this quote, demonstrates his ability to cater to a wide range of tastes and preferences within the fashion industry. By balancing controlled fantasy with moments of total madness, and complementing them with bread-and-butter designs, Blahnik is able to maintain a diverse and compelling portfolio that appeals to different segments of the market.

In summary, Manolo Blahnik's quote provides valuable insight into his creative process and the range of designs he produces. It illustrates his ability to balance creativity and practicality, embrace experimental and daring concepts, and cater to the commercial needs of his brand. This balanced approach has solidified his position as a leading figure in the fashion industry and continues to captivate audiences with his distinctive and diverse designs.