Jimmy Choo presents first Cordwainers Student of the Year Awards

21/05/2014
Couture shoe designer Jimmy Choo was the guest of honour at the Cordwainers inaugural Student of the Year Awards.

Students from the London College of Fashion, De Montfort University and the University of Northampton produced a design which was judged by an independent panel of industry experts.

Helen Kirkum of The University of Northampton, whose entry was described as “exceptional”, took first prize. “This unique footwear competition really pushed me to create a product that was both innovative and commercially viable,” she said, adding that her ambition is to launch a men’s footwear brand.

Representatives from Marks & Spencer, Pentland Brands, Schuh and Spring Line were among the guests at the ceremony.

The Worshipful Company of Cordwainers has long been a supporter of footwear students in the UK, providing scholarships and bursaries, but it is the first time it has spearheaded a national award.

Cordwainers clerk John Miller said: “We believe this will help Britain to maintain its position as the world leader in the design and manufacture of footwear.”