All products and services featured are independently selected by the editors, however, Footwear News may receive a commission on orders placed through its retail links, and the retailer may receive certain auditable data for accounting purposes.
Jimmy Choo has designed countless timeless styles over the years, but one shoe that has always remained a classic is the Romy pump. Since the shoe’s launch in 2016, the brand has sold more than 400,000 pairs and it remains a red carpet classic.
“The idea of a pointed toe pump is one of the biggest challenges for a shoe designer. Every shoe brand makes a version, so you have to put a lot of thought into making your shoe really stand out,” said Creative Director Sandra Choi. “Romy is an art form, both in terms of design and silhouette. It’s the perfect pump. A mix of sophisticated glamour and elegance for those moments when you need to look polished.”
What makes the Romy one of the greatest shoes of all time is its versatility. The style is available in four heel heights, from a modest 60mm to a confident 110mm, and in a range of finishes and materials, including satin, suede, leather and glitter. The Romy is also part of the company’s bespoke offering, where styles can be customized by personalizing the soles.
For Choi, there is no magic formula for creating a successful shoe. However, when it comes to creating an icon, the design must be timeless and balance modernity and classicism.
“Sometimes it’s a matter of luck when a style becomes famous, but the foundation of any style is an unwavering commitment to design integrity, creating styles that are flattering and as comfortable as possible,” Choi continued. “It’s like architecture: the basics have to be flawless before the design is layered on top. But I like to find ways where the basics, like the heel, become design details themselves. People don’t realize that a shoe has to be designed for size, it’s a very special balancing act to get the balance right. There’s an art to merging functional design with aesthetics.”
Romy’s fans include Kate Middleton and Dr. Jill Biden as well as Dua Lipa and Lady Gaga.
Choi added: “Its appeal is universal. Everyone needs a perfect pump in their wardrobe. Romy is the equivalent of your favorite LBD, it’s the best friend you can rely on.”
Jimmy Choo Romy 100 Pumps
