Early Life and Background
Jimmy Choo was born in 1961 in Penang, Malaysia, into a family of shoemakers. He learned the craft from his father and later trained at the Cordwainers Technical College in London. He began making custom shoes for private clients and high-profile figures in the fashion industry, building a reputation for precise, handcrafted footwear.
His early career focused on bespoke designs for celebrities and socialites, which helped him secure a small workshop in London. By the late 1980s, he was producing made-to-measure shoes sold through select retailers and private clients, laying the foundation for a global luxury brand.
Founding the Jimmy Choo Brand
Creation of the Label
In 1996, Jimmy Choo co-founded the eponymous brand with British Vogue accessories editor Tamara Mellon. The company was built around high-end, handcrafted shoes and quickly gained attention from celebrities and fashion editors. The brand positioned itself as a luxury accessory label with a focus on craftsmanship and exclusivity.
The business expanded rapidly through flagship stores in London, New York, and other major fashion capitals. In 2001, Choo sold an 80 percent stake in the company to a group led by Equinox Partners, retaining a minority share and continuing to design under the brand.
Later Career and Current Ownership
Brand Ownership and Financials
Jimmy Choo was acquired by Michael Kors Holdings, now known as Capri Holdings, in 2017 for approximately $1.2 billion. Capri Holdings also owns Versace and Michael Kors, and Jimmy Choo operates as one of its three core luxury brands. The brand continues to generate revenue through direct retail, wholesale, and licensing partnerships worldwide.
Choo remains involved in design and advisory roles but is no longer the majority owner. He has also launched a separate line called Jimmy Choo Couture, which focuses on high-end custom and semi-custom footwear. The brand is consistently ranked among the top luxury footwear labels globally, with a strong presence in North America, Europe, and Asia.
For background on the fashion industry and luxury brand economics, see this overview from Forbes The Economics of the Luxury Fashion Industry. For details on Capri Holdings and its portfolio, see the company's official investor relations page Capri Holdings Investor Relations.