Founded in 1962 by Sao Paulo Alpargatas, Havaianas, which translates to “Hawaiians” in Portuguese, draws its inspiration from the Zori, a traditional Japanese sandal made with rice straw. Similarly, the rice grains decorate the Havaianas sole, making it unique. Initially sold to Brazilian workers, it quickly became popular across the provinces of the ever-optimistic country. Long imitated but never equalled, the flip-flop even appeared in the 1980s on the official list of essential products compiled by the Brazilian government to control inflation, alongside rice and beans.
It was during the 1998 World Cup that, despite the Seleção's defeat in the final, Havaianas triumphed with the “Brasil” collection, which became one of the brand's best sellers. Havaianas then exported the Brazilian spirit beyond borders with its legendary rubber sole, the strap adorned with two parallel lines, and its vast array of designs and colours.
Constantly reinventing itself in the 2000s, Havaianas collaborated with the Oscars and launched limited editions with renowned brands and designers such as Jean Paul Gaultier, Céline, and jeweller H.Stern, including famous flip-flops made from gold or diamonds.
In 2009, it took an eco-friendly turn by partnering with Conservation International and created a collection of flip-flops, of which 7% of the proceeds are donated to the organisation for environmental research and to preserve the Atlantic rainforest, the Amazon rainforest, and Pantanal.
In 2015, much to the delight of its consumers, Havaianas launched its first clothing collection, featuring bikinis, sarongs, and further expanded with a collection of beach accessories. A symbol of comfort, happiness, and freedom, Havaianas fits all feet in the simplest and most spontaneous way. Regularly discover Havaianas private sales on Place des Tendances.
