JIMMY CHOO OBE has been honoured by the Hong Kong Design Centre (HKDC) with the Outstanding Chinese Designer Award 2011 for his achievements in the footwear industry.

"I am extremely honoured and very proud to receive this special award and very grateful for the recognition," said Choo.

Alongside becoming an Honorary Doctor of Arts and receiving a BA Honours in Footwear Design from De Montfort University, Choo has continuously helped upcoming designers by providing masterclasses and internships at his Couture House in London. The designer made his first shoe at the tender age of 11 before establishing his couture label in 1986. He founded Jimmy Choo, now owned by Labelux, in 1996 with former fashion editor Tamara Mellon -but left the label in April 2001, selling his 50 per cent stake in the company for £10 million. 

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