Manolo says, it was six years ago this very day that the Manolo first began his humble shoeblogging. Who could have imagined in 2004, that the Manolo would still be here, feets firmly planted in the interwebs, still sharing his love of shoes with the world?

Back in the day, lo these many years ago, there were precious few blogs devoted to matters fashion, and none which considered the beauty and import of the shoes. Hence, the decision of the Manolo to start his shoe blog and to bring the small bit of joy to others.

What is most remarkable about this, however, is that by the end of the first year after the Manolo started, it was apparent that the world had changed, and that the relationship between the fashion hierarchy and the media and the consumers had been fundamentally upended. And now, with the rise and triumph of the fashion blogs, we have entered the period when fashion and fashion reportage has been democratized, when any aspiring designer and any new blogger can, through hard work, talent, and the savvy sense of theater gain attention for her efforts.

Of the course, the Manolo is delighted to have played the small, miniscule part in this revolution, as the fashion blogosphere’s greatest lover and promoter of the shoes, and as it’s reigning clown prince, ridiculous in his majesty.

Naturally, the Manolo could not have succeeded as well as he has without the help of his fellow Manolosphere bloggers, Christa, Twistie, Miss Plumcake, Mr. Henry, Glinda and the Raincoaster. All of these peoples, together with the other friends who have helped in the past, are amazing writers, and amazing peoples who have the Manolo’s unending gratitude.

The biggest share of the gratitude, however, goes to you, dear reading friend, for your kindness, your generosity, your indulgence , your intelligence, and your attention. Without you, the Manolo would be nothing more than the tiny voice echoing into the darkness. But, with you, the Manolo has blossomed and flourished, like the flower watered with the distilled essence of love. And for that, the Manolo thanks you the thousand times the thousand. You are indeed, most super fantastic!

P.S. The Manolo adorned this post with three of the shoes he recommended in that first month, October of 2004. From the top to the bottom, Gucci boots, Prada golden pumps, Pucci!