Sandra Choi’s shoe rules
Jimmy Choo’s creative director gives her expert view on elevating your evening style, whether you opt for six-inch stilettos or fancy flats
What are your golden rules for buying heels?
1. “Be aware of your individual style and stay true to that.”
2. “Know your heel-height limits.”
3. “If you’re going to buy a new shoe shape, especially something more refined, buy them in the afternoon. That’s when your feet are a bit more relaxed, so you’ll know whether the shoes are going to be too tight.”
Tell us about the NET-A-PORTER x Jimmy Choo collaboration
“The collection was inspired by the confidence and glamour that leading ladies exude when walking the red carpet, mixed with the idea of fantasy. We referenced lots of women over the years and what they were wearing to black-tie balls. Each style has a femininity, seductiveness and the finesse of couture. The shoes are highlighted with lace, crystals and exaggerated bows for added fun – but just enough to complement an outfit and not overpower it.”
What advice do you give to brides choosing shoes for their wedding day?
“Practice. Wear your shoes in the house before the big day to get used to them. Don’t put them on for the first time the morning of your wedding – you will be standing for a long time and the last thing you want is to be distracted by feeling uncomfortable. Know what heel height works for you. Also, think about the type of wedding you’re having: will you be standing for a long period of time, will you need to walk across a grass lawn, will you be dancing until dawn?”
Can you tell us about some of your red-carpet highlights over the years?
Cate Blanchett was the first actress to wear Jimmy Choo on the Oscars red carpet, when she was nominated for Best Actress in a Leading Role in Elizabeth at the 71st Academy Awards in 1999. It was a ‘wow’ moment for us; it was the start of celebrity culture – we had no idea how big it would become.
Uma Thurman wearing flats at Cannes was also a highlight – she proved there are no style rules when it comes to shoes. It’s all about confidence and poise.
And finally, Kendall Jenner wearing socks with our Minny sandal in Cannes in 2017. I loved her modern interpretation and braveness in setting new rules for the red carpet.”
The celebrities featured in this story are not associated with NET-A-PORTER and do not endorse it or the products shown