Havaianas Flip-flops: Making Beach Footwear Fashionable

By Author: Eric Johnson
Total Articles: 6
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In the past many people thought of flip-flops as too casual; thick rubber footwear that was only suited for a day at the beach or hanging out in the backyard. However, when Brazilian-based Havaianas flip-flops came to North America in 2000, people took notice of the rainbow of colours and patterns and how durable and comfortable they were, never losing their shape. Today, this flexible footwear is now considered a fashionable choice for any situation. In fact, celebrities have even been spotted wearing them on the red carpet!

The first Havaianas flip-flops were created in 1962, modeled after the Japanese-style sandal called the Zori, which features rice straw soles and fabric straps. Even today, Havaianas are well known for the unmistakable textured rice pattern on the sole. Also, because of their soft rubber design that keeps sweat out, they don't smell - an unfortunate issue with many cheaper flip-flops. The fact that they didn't smell was even part of one of Havaianas ad campaigns in the 70s, which stated they don't lose their shape, they don't smell and the straps don't come loose. For this reason, Havaianas ...
... become one of the most popular styles of men's flip-flops, guys could wear them while walking or working without having to deal with foot outdoor or broken straps.

Like all successful companies, Havaianas has had to evolve over the years to stay in style. There have been a number of new styles released over the past 50 years, including Havaianas Top in 20 colours, Havaianas Baby, World Cup Havaianas, 18-karat gold H. Stern Havaianas, and the ladies' Havaianas Slim version. While women loved the bright colours of Havaianas, the earlier, thicker style didn't suit their slimmer, more delicate feet. When the Slim flip-flops were released in 2006, they became an instant success, snapped up by women all over the world. With a thinner foot bed and strap, they were ideal for girls and women to pair with shorts, skirts, dresses and pants.

Havaianas have become the most popular women's flip-flops in the world, with celebrities such as Gwen Stefani, Christina Aguilera, Sienna Miller, and Hilary Duff sporting them in all shades. Because Havaianas are available in a multitude of colours including fuchsia, turquoise and lemon yellow, they go well with any outfit, from casual to more formal. Of course, Havaianas also come in basic colours for those who like their footwear a little more subtle: black, brown and gray flip-flops are always available.

In 2009, Havaianas proved there was more to the company than basic men's, women's and children's flip-flops sandals. The Espaco Havaianas store opened in Sao Paulo, selling new styles of Havaianas flip-flops, customizable Havaianas, sneakers, bags, and more. With over two billion pairs of Havaianas sold since 1962, it's obvious the company is still going strong. It's only a matter of time until the next gotta-have-it style is released by Havaianas, whose comfortable and durable footwear has become a wardrobe essential worldwide.