Valle, Diego della

   The store known as Tod's has its roots as an Italian shoe company founded in the early 1900s by Filippo Delia Valle. It was not until the 1970s when the founder's grandson, Diego, entered the firm that Tod's S.p.A. became a leading luxury shoe and leather goods company. Tod's is best known for its iconic Driving Shoe, a hand-crafted, high-quality, soft-leather moccasin with 133 rubber studs on its sole, which was introduced in the late 1970s. Tod's shoes and bags are bought by some of the most affluent people in the world, are favorites among celebrities, and are strategically placed in films. Tod's has identified a niche target market, that is, a chic customer with a casual lifestyle. In addition to its 150 Tod's stores worldwide, Tod's launched a limited-edition women's ready-to-wear collection in 2006 and hired Derek Lam as creative director. Della Valle is also the owner of the Italian football team Fiorentina, which he bought in 2002.