History
Jimmy Choo was launched in 1996 when Tamara Mellon, Accessories Editor at British Vogue realised the potential demand for stylish but wearable shoes and approached Mr Jimmy Choo, the couture shoe maker based in the East End of London, recognized for his excellent craftmanship. Tamara partnered with Mr Jimmy Choo to start the ready-to-wear shoe company and opened the first stand alone boutique on Motcomb Street, London along with a strong wholesale business.
In 1998, Jimmy Choo opened its first boutique in New York followed by Los Angeles in 1999. Sparking an immediate success amoungst young Hollywood, Jimmy Choo became synonymous with the 'red carpet' shoe of choice and was hailed the lucky charm for Oscar winners such as Cate Blanchett, Halle Berry, Hilary Swank and many other Hollywood actresses.
In April 2001, My Jimmy Choo's equity share of the business was purchased by Equinox Luxury Holdings Ltd. During this period, Jimmy Choo saw its first significant expansion and the introduction of handbags. In November 2004, Lion Capital acquired a majority shareholding, valuing the company at £101 million. In February 2007, a majority shareholding of Jimmy Choo was acquired by TowerBrook Capital Partners, the international private equity firm, a deal which valued the company at £185 million.
Today, Jimmy Choo encompasses a complete luxury lifestyle accessory brand with women's shoes, handbags, small leather goods, sunglasses and eyewear. Its products are available in the growing network of freestanding stores as well as in the most prestigious department and speciality stores worldwide. From its original base in the United Kingdom and United States, the Jimmy Choo store network now encompasses over 90 locations in 31 countries.
The brand is the recipient of the 2008 'Designer Brand of the Year' award from the British Fashion Council, the 2008 ACE award for 'Brand of the Year' from the Accessory Council and the 2008 'Brand of the Year' from the 22nd Annual Footwear News Awards in New York and the 2009 Nordstrom 'Partners in Excellence' award.
Tamara Mellon, Founder and President, and Joshua Schulman, Chief Executive Officer, are in charge of the company's development which today enjoys the stature of one of the world's most treasured and prominent luxury brands.
