It is claimed that the addictive nature of these flip flops is largely due to a 42‑year‑old secret rubber formula, which makes them butter-soft, bouncy, flexible, and durable. According to the manufacturer, the Zori (a Japanese style sandal) was the inspiration for the creation of the Havaianas sandal in 1962. In Brazil, where Havaianas originates, these are worn by all personalities from the average citizen to dignitaries and celebrities. Since being introduced to the United States, Havaianas have created an unprecedented cult following.
Now referred to as the “best rubber sandal in the world,” Havaianas can be seen gracing the pages of the hottest fashion and sport magazines, strutting down the runways at New York Fashion Week and featured at red carpet events like the Oscars. Stylish Americans, including top athletes, rock stars, and celebrities demanded the butter-soft comfort of these inexpensive flip flops, making Havaianas available at the most chic retailers and surf boutiques.However, here in the Philippines, it seems like a luxury to be able to buy a single pair of Tops, the simpliest and cheapest model of these flip flops. It was some time in 2006 when I bought my very first pair of Havaianas, just because everyone in my class back then was going gaga about them -- and then comes peer pressure. I believe it was priced almost 800 pesos for a metallic gold pair then and I promised myself I would not buy any more of these impractical things. Nevertheless, 2 years later, I was able to collect over 50 pairs already. Take note: These weren’t all priced the same. Some of the Havaianas I got were unreasonably priced at over 2000 pesos, and that’s exclusive of shipping costs; and most of the pairs I got were well over a thousand bucks. Why? Because they are, in fact, limited editions and “rare” pairs.
When people ask me why the craze? I simply say, it’s not about the Havaianas anymore, it’s the hunt. But right now, I t
hink I need psychotherapy or rehabilitation. Ha ha! But wait, let me try to justify things first. I have won 2 very exclusive pairs of Havaianas for the past 2 years. You see, every summer, Havaianas Philippines holds a contest. In 2007, I was one of the 50 winners and received the exclusive Take Us To The Nearest Beach pair. Then again, this year I was among the lucky 70 people to receive the limited edition Flipping for the Beach pair. These are among the highlights of my so-called Havaianas addiction.
stration of not having them your size! But alas, I can personally vouch that quality control is indeed a problem with these flip flops. I used to be a size 37/38 for a year, then came the new models and now I’m a size 35/36. No, my feet did not shrink. They’re still 9.25 inches.I always look forward to an MYOH event. It’s the annual “Make Your Own Havaianas” experience. You get to mix and match colors of straps and soles, then put in pretty crystals and stylishly cute pins on them. Mind you, the lines get longer each year! Another unforgettable Havaianas event I attended was the Free Kick. You need to get a goal to win a prize. I got myself a Havaianas lanyard and water bottle after successfully scoring with my 3rd kick of the soccer ball. We also got our pictures taken with the hot Brazilian models. Tee hee.
⋆✌㋡ღ⋆ 陳美西
Published Aug. 25-31, 2008. EV Mail.
- 12:11 AM
- 13 Comments
