Popularity of Havaianas
It has only been since 1994 that the monochromatic Top unisex design of Havaianas came into being. Before that time, Traditional models had a white top and straps with a sole in one of five colours and were an everyday, affordable choice for the majority of Brazilians: men, women and children. But the simple, frugal design of the Traditional style lent itself to the creative touch, as shown when the Brazilian women customised their own flip flops to suit their individual taste. Furthermore, the upper-class customers were not satisfied with the Traditional style, hence the more elaborate models were created.
The successful global brand that Havaianas has become is due in part to the fact that the rubber recipe ensures the flip flops are as “soft as marshmallows”.
The popularity in the UK is evident when we consider that women commuters are choosing to wear Havaianas on the morning tube to work instead of trainers. The light weight makes it easy to slip them into a handbag when it is necessary to change in to heels.