In
1996 Tamara realized 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 craftsmanship. She
partnered with Mr Jimmy Choo to start the ready-to-wear shoe company,
sourcing factories and production in Italy and opened the first stand
alone boutique on Motcomb Street, London as well as 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 amongst young Hollywood,
Jimmy Choo became synonymous with the red carpet and was hailed the
lucky charm for Oscar winners such as Cate Blanchett, Halle Berry,
Hilary Swank and many other Hollywood actresses. Tamara was a pioneer
in Hollywood, spearheading the first accessory brand to offer nominees
and presenters with customized shoes for their red carpet appearances.
Today,
the Jimmy Choo brand is available in the growing network of Jimmy Choo
freestanding stores as well as in the most prestigious department and
specialty stores worldwide. From its original base in the United
Kingdom and United States, the Jimmy Choo store network now encompasses
over 100 locations in 32 countries. Jimmy
Choo has been awarded the 2008 ACE Designer Brand of the Year award,
2008 British Designer Brand of the Year Award from the British Fashion
Council, the 2008˜Footwear News Brand of the Year Award, and
the 2009
Nordstrom Partners In Excellence award.
