Choo opens in Ireland

Last weekend Ireland's first Jimmy Choo store was unveiled in Dublin's department store, Brown Thomas. Jimmy Choo president, Tamara Mellon, intends to have "50 shoe boutiques by 2008", so the opening of the Dublin store is an important part of her expansion strategy.

The Choo store is situated in the extravagant Shoe Rooms of Brown Thomas - which were recently lanched by Christian Louboutin - and is done up in signature Jimmy Choo style, complete with sating panelling, crystal chandelier and mirrors.

Mellon was very excited about opening as she told vogue.com: "We are delighted to be opening in Dublin and especially so as the store will be located in the most famous department store in Ireland. Dublin is synonymous with fun, Grafton Street with prestige and Brown Thomas with style. What a perfect combination - and the ideal setting for Jimmy Choo. I know my late father would agree being Irish himself and so I am particularly proud to open our Dublin store."