Ananya Panday: The first heels I stole from mom’s closet was Jimmy Choo

Ismat Tahseen

Fashion is going to be all about sparkle and shine as the Festival of Lights approaches. And lending her own vibe to the festivity is Bollywood actress Ananya Panday.
As the new face of Jimmy Choo – Diwali/FW’23 Collection, LuxeBook caught up with her on what makes for her own style quotient, her love for heels inherited from her mother, and why she loves her collection of bags the most.

You’ve debuted as brand ambassador for Jimmy Choo’s Diwali Capsule Campaign. The shoot must have been fun.
When Jimmy Choo approached me to be their brand ambassador and launch the Diwali campaign I was over the moon because they are such an iconic brand and a personal favourite. I had a great time shooting the campaign because it felt like one of those serendipitous moments when all the synergies on set matched, the creative energy was booming and everyone was there to create magic.

What are the qualities of a Jimmy Choo brand ambassador that you feel describes you perfectly?
I think a lot of the Jimmy Choo pieces are classic but have a flair for glamour and that is how I would describe my personality as well. I like having a good time and Jimmy Choo always embodies a sense of celebration and fun while being versatile at the same time.

Are you also someone who loves the brand and owns several Jimmy Choo pieces in your wardrobe?
I’ve grown up eyeing so many of my mom’s Jimmy Choo shoes! When I became a teenager I could finally wear heels. The first pair that I stole from her closet were a pair of Jimmy Choo shoes. Whenever I have to walk the ramp or dance the night away I know I can rely on my Jimmy Choo pair to be that strong support.

What does luxury mean to you? 
Luxury to me is about feeling good, for me it’s an experience. Spending on things that make you happy and most like yourself. And that’s what I usually go for when I’m shopping. It could be on a vacation, or it could be online, or anywhere.

If you were to describe the LBD of shoes that every girl needs to have in her closet, what would you call it?
The LBD of shoes for me would be a nude pump heel.

Do you look forward to buying something new for the festive season, especially Diwali?
For me Diwali is all about spending time with my loved ones and celebrating the year gone by. It’s about buying gifts for my loved ones and also spoiling myself at the same time. I know this year definitely the Diwali capsule collection of Jimmy Choo is what I’ll be gifting myself and family.

Today, shoes and bags are more than just accessories. Do you match your shoes and bags with the places you step out to?
Yes I agree with that. It’s almost like a piece of art and the craftsmanship and artistry is something I truly admire. I do try my best to match my shoes and bags to where I’m stepping out but for me, comfort and confidence in what I’m wearing is priority.

How do you define luxury and what is your personal style?
Luxury is an experience for me and it’s about finding joy and being yourself. My personal style is classic and casual.

You have always been a proponent for luxury brands when it comes to fashion, what are some of the best high-end buys you have made?
My collection of bags is what I love most and I actually find a lot of joy in finding that perfect tote bag because my whole life has to go on it.

Do you hope to launch your own make-up or clothing line someday?
I do hope to launch something that I’m extremely passionate about so that I can follow through with it and be as genuine with it as possible – whatever field that may be in.

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