Our story
Original from Brazil since 1962
Havaianas has been spreading the Brazilian spirit around the world since 1962 with its iconic rubber sole and bright, colorful and summer-infused designs.
With over 250 million pairs sold every year in over 100 countries, Havaianas has become synonymous with modern flip flops, cementing itself as a must-have for beach-goers and trendsetters alike. From the streets of Brazil to the halls of the most famous contemporary art museum in New York – a true global icon.
1962
A star is born
Havaianas 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 Havaianas so unique. So where did the name “Havaianas” come from? Well, in Portuguese, the name translates to “Hawaiians” and it was chosen to honor 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 original rubber
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
More colors
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 colors, including green, brown, yellow, and black.
1980
An essential
Havaianas was 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
Rainbow and prints
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 color? After taking note this trend, Havaianas introduced single colored styles and launched their first ever printed style featuring a hibiscus flower. Many more printed designs continued to be released with new colorways and new product developments (such as baby designs!).
1998
Brazilian passion
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-Present
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.
