by Shadia

Jimmy Choo

/ Shoes / Shoe Designers /

There are millions of women around the world who share a common love (many call it an obsession)... Shoes. Jimmy Choo tops the list of designers to choose from. In 1996, what began as a partnership between an accessories director of Vogue UK, and a Malaysian couture shoe-maker based in East End London, has become a luxury brand most women obsess over.

It was a partnership that flourished and helped form what is now considered by many, a cult following.

Tamara Mellon, the Vogue UK accessories director, partnered with Mr. Jimmy Choo, the shoe maker, to start the ready to wear shoe company. Through the sourcing of Italian factories and the successful development of the business throughout the fashion capitals of the world, Jimmy Choo reached a very important mark in 2001 by partnering with Equinox Luxury Holdings Ltd. Within three years, the company opened 26 new stores and introduced a line of handbags and small leather goods.

The years 2004 and 2007 marked two important milestones for Jimmy Choo. In 2004, Lion Capital announced the acquisition of a majority shareholding in Jimmy Choo, which valued the company at £101 million. In 2007, Jimmy Choo was acquired by TowerBrook Capital Partners, however Tamara Mellon continued to oversee the creative direction of the company, along with Creative Director Sandra Choi, Mr. Jimmy Choo's niece.

The Jimmy Choo shoe empire can also thank Sex in the City for developing the brand into a cult status in recent years. Sara Jessica Parker's character, the ever-fashionable Carrie, had a true true love for her Choos. Wearing a pair of Jimmy Choos is not only a status symbol, it is a feeling of elegance, femininity and luxury. The designs are classic and stylish, a perfect mix of excellent craftsmanship and beauty, couture yet wearable.