All About Jimmy Choo: How a Malaysian Shoemaker Became a Fashion Powerhouse

Born in Penang, Malaysia, Jimmy Choo grew up in his father’s shoemaking workshop, where he spent his afternoons learning about leather, stitching, and shoe construction. As he told the South China Morning Post, he made his first pair of shoes at the age of 11—a simple leather slipper for his mother’s birthday—and the experience sparked his lifelong passion for footwear. Free from modern distractions, Jimmy credited his curiosity and time spent in the workshop as formative for his craft, emphasizing that family, education, and perseverance were essential to his later success.

At 21, the designer moved to London to study at Cordwainers Technical College in Hackney, now part of the London College of Fashion. After working at a few shoe design firms, he started his own business in the mid-1980s, initially funded by his mother’s retirement savings. Early on, Jimmy’s workshop was small, relying on his family to help make, package, and sell his shoes. His big break came in 1988 with a London Fashion Week showcase, which introduced his work to an international audience. By the 1990s, Jimmy had established a reputation for craftsmanship, clean silhouettes, and structural precision, attracting high-profile clients including members of the British royal family, such as Princess Diana.

In 1996, Jimmy Choo partnered with British accessories editor Tamara Mellon, transforming his London atelier into an international label. This collaboration translated hand-finished shoemaking into collections that could reach a global audience while retaining artisanal detail. Editors, stylists, and celebrities were drawn to his shoes for their balance of proportion, technical intelligence, and subtle elegance.

Over time, the brand expanded its offerings while staying rooted in artisanal techniques. The label has grown into a global luxury accessories house, creatively led by Sandra Choi, who trained under her uncle in London, and managed by CEO Hannah Colman. Beyond shoes, the collections now include bags, accessories, jewelry, eyewear, and fragrance, with production primarily near Florence, Italy, and boutiques in more than 200 locations worldwide.

The Saeda Sandal 100 pairs a four-inch metallic heel with a crystal chain ankle strap, creating a sculpted silhouette that catches light at every angle. The combination of polished metal and delicate crystals gives the sandal a subtle sparkle, while the curve of the heel and the strap placement maintain a sense of architectural balance.

Patent leather mules with a crystal strap across the vamp, the Bing 100 is sleek and refined. The slip-on design highlights clean lines, while the slight shimmer of the crystals adds a quiet drama, letting the structure of the shoe take center stage.

Soft patent leather strappy mules, the Anise 95 balances playful femininity with a sculpted form. The straps intersect over the foot in rhythmic lines, giving the shoe movement and visual interest. A delicate sheen enhances the texture without overpowering the silhouette.

A compact bag with bracelet handles adorned in crystals and a drawstring closure with metal tassels, the Bon Bon fuses functionality and decorative detail. Satin and velvet options add a touch of tactile richness, and its small scale makes it a striking accessory for evenings or special occasions.

The Avenue shoulder bag features quilted Italian matelassé leather with a structured silhouette and internal compartments. The understated JC emblem sits quietly, letting the texture and form speak for themselves.

The Diamond collection embraces geometric angles with diamond-shaped silhouettes in calf leather and suede. The bag's hardware adds texture, resulting in a bag that balances structure with fluidity.