Jimmy Choo: A Fashion Icon on the Significance of Passion, Humility, and Collaboration
Becoming an iconic figure in any industry is no small feat, but Jimmy Choo is one brand that has managed to achieve this status. Hailing from a family with a background in shoe manufacturing in Malaysia, Choo’s love for footwear was nurtured from a young age. It was in the 1990s that he gained worldwide recognition with the launch of his eponymous shoe brand, which received a significant boost from the support of Princess Diana. Choo’s unique and luxurious heels swiftly became a symbol of femininity and accessible luxury, adorning the feet of fashion enthusiasts and celebrities alike. Surprisingly, just 15 years after co-founding the brand with Tamara Mellon, Choo made the decision to sell his 50% stake in the company to focus on his couture and prêt-à-porter ventures. Presently, Jimmy Choo is owned by Capri Holdings Limited, a conglomerate that also holds prestigious labels such as Versace and Michael Kors.
During Barcelona Bridal Fashion Week, we had the privilege of meeting with Jimmy Choo, where he showcased his latest collection for his bridal couture brand, The Atelier. The London-based designer was honored with a lifetime achievement award at the event and is recognized as an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE). We had the chance to speak with Yew Loh, CEO of The Atelier, regarding the brand’s participation in the esteemed fashion event. According to Loh, Barcelona plays a vital role in the bridal wear market, attracting professionals from Europe, China, and the United States. The company has plans to bolster its store network, with Malaysia, London, and Shanghai leading the way.
During our conversation, Jimmy Choo highlighted the importance of sharing knowledge and not hoarding it for oneself. With nearly 40 years of experience in the fashion industry, he understands the value of mentoring young talent in manual labor and craftsmanship. In 2021, he launched the JCA London Fashion Academy to equip aspiring fashion students with the skills they need to thrive. Preserving the traditional craft of skilled artisans is a challenge faced by the industry, and Jimmy Choo believes it is crucial to address this by ensuring that ancestral savoir-faire continues to flourish.
The Atelier takes pride in its skilled workforce, consisting of many employees who have been honing their embroidery skills for over 45 years. However, both Jimmy Choo and Loh acknowledge the difficulty in finding young individuals willing to commit themselves to these demanding and time-consuming manual activities. The brand creates garments designed to last for over a century, and meticulous attention to detail is of utmost importance. Jimmy Choo places special emphasis on couture designs as customers are willing to invest substantial sums in these pieces. Each season, the brand strives for improvement across all aspects, ranging from fitting to materials.
Retirement is not on the horizon for Jimmy Choo, despite his remarkable success. He continues to derive immense joy from his work and believes that by remaining involved in the creative process, he can contribute more value to future generations. He emphasizes the significance of loving what you do and nurturing your team as the keys to achieving success. According to him, the human factor is pivotal, and being courteous and attentive to everyone is essential. Jimmy Choo underlines the importance of humility in the fashion industry, stating that creating a supportive network of contacts and fostering positive collaborations are vital.
Passion and enthusiasm are qualities that Jimmy Choo embodies wholeheartedly. He finds inspiration in everyday life, taking the time to appreciate and sketch ideas that may be incorporated into future designs. His plan is to continue doing what he loves for as long as possible, always eagerly presenting new creations annually.
Ultimately, for Jimmy Choo, the crux of the matter lies in his love for his craft. It is this passion that has earned him the status of a fashion legend, and it is through his humility, teamwork, and unwavering dedication that he has achieved genuine success in the industry.
Useful Links:
1. Jimmy Choo Official Website
2. Capri Holdings Limited Official Website
