Today, Tamara Mellons candid memoir goes on sale. In My Shoes promises sex, drugs, money, power and high heels. As the glamourous Jimmy Choo founder embarks on a new business venture (a lifestyle brand bearing her name) we quizzed Tamara on career highlights, inspirations and future plans.
Why did you decide to write the book?
Many things have happened over the course of my life to do with my family and upbringing, my own personal challenges, career, marriage and divorce. They have defined who I am today. I wanted to tell my story, it felt like it was a great way to close that chapter of my life.
Describe yourself in five words
Peaceful. Maternal. Determined. Sensual and self-aware.
Which pair of shoes do you treasure most?
The 71428 - they had leopard print insole with gold metallic straps and were our first shoe order that led to the creation of Jimmy Choo.
Who are your favourite designers?
I love Stella McCartney, Celine and vintage Yves Saint Laurent.
What beauty products do you swear by?
Darphin Hydraskin Rich: leaves skin smooth and soft, Jin Soon Coquette nail color: the perfect shade of red for autumn and I love Diptyque L'Ombre das l'Eau as my personal fragrance.
Who would you like to play you in a film of your life?
Jennifer Connelly.
What advice would you give your 16-year-old self?
Be yourself. Follow your passion. Speak up.
The highlight of your career so far?
Starting my namesake brand. It is wonderfully rewarding (and terrifying) building a business again from the ground up.
Which other business women do you admire?
Sheryl Sandberg: she is creating a movement by helping people become inspired and teaching them to achieve their goals. Natalie Massenet is also a fantastic business woman: she looked at the retail industry, envisioned how it would be improved and then she did it.
How do you unwind?
Sweating to Tracy Anderson. Watching my daughter ride horses at Wolfer Estate's on Long Island. Taking in an exhibit at PACE Gallery in New York City. Reading the papers in bed.
What inspires you?
My daughter, my friends, art and travel. I believe if I make a product that I love other women will have the same emotional reaction.
What can we expect from the new Tamara Mellon brand?
A monthly cycle of fashion deliveries. They are the clothes that I would want to wear each month. It is a luxury product with modern women in mind. I don't like to look at demographics - to me it is more about the attitude, sense of humor, sense of fun and confidence of a woman.
Tamara will be signing copies of her book at Harrods on 11 October.
