Jimmy Choo is the name behind some of the most iconic and covetable shoes in the world.
The legendary designer is visiting Australia right now, promoting his latest line as well as sharing industry knowledge with TAFE Queensland fashion students.
In an interview with Today, Professor Jimmy Choo opened up on his relationship with the late Princess Diana, and shared touching details of the time he designed for her.
Professor Jimmy Choo (left) recalls fond memories of designing shoes for one of his most favourite clients, the late Princess Diana (right)
The Malaysian-born designer recalled the time he spent working for the princess fondly, remembering her as a kind, and gentle person – a memory very much in keeping with her public persona.
‘She was very down to earth. She never complained. She never said the shoe was too tight, or too big. Never,’ said Professor Choo.
‘She always sent me a card that said “Thanks Jimmy, thanks for coming to Kensington Palace to see me”.’
He said his most famous model, who he met in 1990 and designed for until her death in 1997, trusted his sense of style implicitly.
The world-renown designed created shoes for Princess Diana from 1990 until her death in 1997
‘She said “I will leave it to you Jimmy. You’re the expert.”‘
His special relationship with the princess he said has been immortalised in a pair of shoes he’s only ever made available for his family.
‘The last pair of shoes I designed for the late princess was the flat pump,’ he said.
Professor Choo received a special honour from Princes William and Harry at a memorial service held marking the 20th anniversary of Princess Diana’s death
This year marks the 20th anniversary of Princess Diana’s death, and during the memorial held Professor Choo received a special honour from Princes William and Harry.
He was named an Ambassador for The Diana Award – an appointment that will see the world-renown designer raise funds in a bid to continue Princess Diana’s legacy.
‘She was real princess,’ Professor Choo said somewhat emotionally during the interview.
‘Down to earth, simple. Very nice, with a very good heart. She did a lot of charity, and left a good legacy.’