The designer with Cultural Secretary James Purnell

Queen Elizabeth II bestowed upon designer Manolo Blahnik Honorary Commander of the British Empire, cementing his iconic status forever. The award was presented by Culture Secretary James Purnell and acknowledges him as one of the most successful and influential designers of our time.

“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,” said Blahnik. “I’ll always be proud and grateful for it.”

Commander of the British Empire? I totally dig that job.