1962 a star is born
Havaianas thongs were created in Brazil in 1962 after being inspired by the Zori sandal; a traditional Japanese sandal with cloth straps and woven rice straw soles. Havaianas replaced the straw with rubber, updated the design to look modern, and the rest is history! This is why the soles of Havaianas feature a rice grain pattern; one of the many design elements that make them so unique. So where did the name “Havaianas” come from? Well, in Portuguese, the name translates to “Hawaiians” and it was chosen to honour the tropical and glamourous vacay destination with endless summer vibes.
1964 the kombi
By 1964, practically every worker in Brazil wore a pair of Havaianas. Traveling salesmen would sell Havaianas directly from their vintage Volkswagen Kombi vans throughout Brazil. The vans were always greeted with excitement wherever they popped up!
1966 the key ingredient
Not to brag, but Havaianas invented the original rubber flip flop! Here’s our proof: In 1966, Havaianas’ parent company, Alpargatas, registered the patent of our now world famous rubber thong!
1969 new colours
At first, Havaianas were only available in blue and white. But in 1969, a production error produced a batch of green Havaianas, which ended up hitting the marketplace. The reaction was so positive that Havaianas seized the opportunity and started producing a wider variety of colours, including green, brown, yellow, and black.
1980 an essential
Havaianas were officially recognized as an intrinsic part of Brazilian culture by the Brazilian Government after they were included on a list of fundamental products (alongside rice and beans!) to control inflation. By this point, millions of pairs of Havaianas were being sold each year in Brazil.
Mid 1990's prints and patterns
Did you know that a trend started in the 90s when surfers flipped the white soles of their Havaianas upside down to create flip flops of a single colour? After taking note, Havaianas introduced single coloured styles and launched their first ever print featuring a hibiscus flower. Many more printed designs continued to be released with new colourways and new product developments (such as baby designs!).
1998 brazilian spirit
To celebrate the ’98 World Soccer Championship Havaianas launched “Havaianas Brazil” – a style with a small Brazilian flag on the strap. It still remains one of Havaianas best-selling styles globally.
1999 runway icon
Havaianas transcends into the world of fashion after making a runway debut in French designer Jean Paul Gaultier’s runway show. Soon after, Havaianas began working with some of the biggest and greatest brands and designers from around the world.
2000’s re-inventing Classics
Havaianas never ceases to innovate, and year after year, continues to release new styles such as the Slim, the Sandals and the Square. Besides that, the brand also has launched special collections with details like crystals and embroideries, handcrafted by Brazilian artisans.
