I’ve done much hand-wringing over the future of the Manolo Blahnik brand since we started TalkShoes – would the one-time king be on top again? Had Blahnik lost his magical touch that made his footwear the fifth cast member of Sex and the City? Would the advent of non-platform trends hasten his return to design supremacy? Is this thing on?

Manolo Blahnik Fall 2011 is perhaps not a once-and-for-all definitive answer, but it is a strong indication that Blahnik intends to take full advantage of the fashionable return flat soles and pointy-toed pumps. This collection of shoes has a wit and irreverence about many of its designs that has been lacking for the brand over the past few collections, and although not all the shoes are winners, there are enough positive indicators (not to mention covetable shoes) to make me optimistic about the rest of the collection when it debuts.

Photos via Style.com